Sangrur: Punjab is being developed as a leading education destination, with no shortage of funds allowed to hamper government school upgradation and new career pathways being opened for youth, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said on Sunday, asserting that his government has provided more than 70,000 government jobs purely on merit, on the principle of ‘No Cash No Farmaish’ (without bribes or recommendations).Addressing youngsters at a regional youth festival at Desh Bhagat College in village Bararwal, Dhuri, the Chief Minister urged them to focus on education and hard work, while stressing that Punjab needs elected representatives who understand people’s pain and problems.CM Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed happiness over the enthusiastic participation of students from 39 colleges in the festival, with 60 different activities being organised across four stages.The Chief Minister pointed out, “The purpose of education is not merely to produce degree holders, but to develop enlightened, sensitive and responsible citizens who can contribute meaningfully to society.”He added that activities such as music, dance, theatre, literature and folk arts helped students develop emotional intelligence, creative thinking, mutual respect and a spirit of cooperation, all of which were indispensable for building a progressive society.CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab’s cultural heritage is a source of pride and identity for our people. Youth festivals and folk festivals serve as vital links between generations, ensuring that the state’s traditional art forms, folk music, dances and indigenous games continued to flourish.”“A ‘Rangla Punjab’ can be built only when its youth are empowered with knowledge, confidence, creativity and a strong sense of purpose,” he said.Urging young people to remain rooted in their cultural heritage while embracing new opportunities, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the aspirations and achievements of Punjab’s youth would play a decisive role in shaping the state’s future. “The Youth Festival is a celebration of young talent, a tribute to Punjab’s cultural richness and a reminder that when young people are provided with the right platforms, encouragement and opportunities, they can emerge as the driving force behind a stronger, more vibrant and ‘Rangla Punjab’,” he affirmed
