After a slight delay from the initially planned release date, Congress launched its manifesto for Punjab on February 18. It must be noted that was also the final day for campaigning. While releasing it, Punjab Congress Chief Navjot Singh Sidhu said that Guru Nanak Dev inspired it. The party would end mafia raj in the liquor sale and sand mining industries by creating corporations.
Here are some of the key features of this manifesto:
- The manifesto promises one lakh government jobs, ₹1,100 per month for women and eight free cooking gas cylinders per year.
- It states the end of mafia raj and illegal involvement in the liquor sale and sand mining businesses by creating corporations that check any such activity.
- It promises procurement of oilseed, pulses and corn by government agencies.
- The manifesto states free education for all students who need it and brings 170 different services online for the people of the state.
- Sidhu listed the focus on youth, skilling and entrepreneurship under the Punjab Congress model.
- It states the creation of over 5 lakh jobs through Urban Employment Guarantee Mission.
- According to it, De-addiction and rehabilitation centres would be set up for youth battling drug addiction and other such problems.
- The Congress government in Punjab states youth would be provided with support in business, sports, and growth to make the party’s promise of making them the state’s future leaders.
Party’s stand
“The Youth, Skilling and Entrepreneurship program can change the face of the state. It’s time to be a part of this change and create the future we want the next generation to live in,” IANS quoted Sidhu as saying. He also said that the manifesto released on the last day of campaigning for assembly polls reflects Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s vision for the state in its 13 point plan.
Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi also took the opportunity to lash out at Arvind Kejriwal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader. He said that Kejriwal was trying to create panic and insecurity among Hindus to grab power. Channi further went on to say that many Hindus have sacrificed their prosperity and peace for the prosperity and well-being of Punjab. “Kejriwal has lost his mind,” he added.
The CM also said that in the upcoming elections, he sees himself in the role of “Bhai Kanhaiya”- a disciple of the Sikh Guru Tegh Bahadur. He claimed that he aspires to bring everyone together and serve the people foremost. Channi also deferred to Navjot Singh Sidhu by assigning him the leadership role. He said that teamwork is vital and that the government will run under the party.
