Big boost for women sarpanches, farmers, and healthcare in Punjab: CM Mann rolls out key reforms, targets SKM
Harshabab Sidhu
Chandigarh, July 10, 2025 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, after presiding over the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, announced a series of transformative decisions aimed at improving healthcare, empowering women, clarifying agricultural policies, and strengthening law and order in the state.
₹10 Lakh Health Coverage for All
A major highlight was the rollout of a universal ₹10 lakh health insurance scheme for every resident of Punjab. The health cards will be valid across all government hospitals and 552 private hospitals already empaneled, with plans to expand the network to over 1,000 additional private hospitals.
Empowerment of Women Sarpanches
In a significant move toward grassroots empowerment, CM Mann announced that women sarpanches performing well in their villages will be taken to Nanded Sahib for a fully-funded religious and training tour. The government will cover all travel and lodging expenses. These women leaders will also participate in a special training camp in Maharashtra, alongside other elected panchayat members.
Land Pooling is Voluntary, Says CM
Clarifying the state’s land pooling scheme, CM Mann asserted that the scheme is completely voluntary, dismissing rumors that it would be forced upon farmers.
“This is being deliberately misrepresented. I urge farmers not to fall for misinformation,” he said, taking a pointed dig at Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) leaders. “Many of these leaders aren’t real farmers. Ask them when they last entered a field,” Mann remarked.
CISF Withdrawal, New Sacrilege Law, and Police Reforms
The Cabinet also resolved to bring a resolution in the Vidhan Sabha to reverse the 2021 decision made under former CM Captain Amarinder Singh to deploy CISF for dam security. Mann reaffirmed that Punjab Police is sufficient for protecting the state’s infrastructure.
On the sensitive issue of sacrilege, CM Mann announced that a strict new law will be introduced in the Assembly tomorrow, with provisions for strong punishment. The bill, however, will be open for public consultation and stakeholder input before being finalized.
Lastly, the Chief Minister revealed that Punjab Police strength will be increased from the current 80,000 to 1 lakh personnel, addressing long-standing shortages and enhancing internal security.