Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann highlights state's immense contribution to India's freedom struggle in Independence Day message

Chandigarh (Punjab) [India], August 15 (ANI): On the occasion of the 78th Independence Day, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann highlighted the state's immense contribution to India's freedom struggle in a heartfelt message to residents.
He stated, "The contribution of Punjabis in the fight for independence has been unparalleled. Countless martyrs like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Madan Lal Dhingra laid down their lives to free our nation."
Chief Minister Mann also addressed the sacrifices made by Punjab during the partition. "While the entire country was celebrating independence, Punjab was enduring the pain of partition. Millions were killed during this time, but Punjab showed its resilience and defended the nation by sacrificing its sons at the borders," he said.
He lauded Punjab's role in agricultural production, which helped the nation during its most challenging times. "When the country was on the brink of famine, Punjab stepped up and provided grain to the entire nation, helping it recover from the crisis," Mann remarked.
Highlighting his government's efforts to address the water crisis, the Chief Minister said, "We have initiated steps to revive old canals and ensure the supply of agricultural water to villages. The Malwa Canal project, which will be the first canal constructed in Punjab after independence, is a significant step in this direction. This canal will be 149 kilometers long and will run from Harike Pattan to the Rajasthan border."
Mann also discussed the issue of youth employment, stating, "Our government is committed to providing employment opportunities to the youth of the state. Transparent recruitment processes are being implemented in government departments, which will help increase job opportunities."
Emphasizing the importance of infrastructure and road safety in the state's development, he said, "The roads and infrastructure of Punjab play a crucial role in the state's progress. To reduce road accidents, we have established the SSF (Road Safety Force)."
On the significance of Independence Day, the Chief Minister said, "This day is not just a day of celebration, but also a day to remember the sacrifices of our martyrs and to pledge to fulfill their dreams."
He urged the youth to learn about the martyrs and their sacrifices and to adopt their ideals. Concluding his message, Mann shared a famous quote by Shaheed Bhagat Singh: "Love is everyone's birthright, so why not make the land of our nation our beloved this time?"
Bhagwant Mann paid tribute to all martyrs and freedom fighters, stating, "It is because of their sacrifices that we live in a free and democratic country today. Those who love their land are the greatest of all."
The Chief Minister ended his message by extending his best wishes for Independence Day. (ANI)