Punjab Cabinet Approves Budget Session from March 21 and Key Education Reforms

Punjab Cabinet Approves Budget Session from March 21 and Key Education Reforms

Punjab Cabinet Approves Budget Session and Key Educational Reforms

Chandigarh, March 13, 2025 – In a significant move to advance Punjab’s economic and educational framework, the Punjab Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, approved several key initiatives. These include the summoning of the Budget session from March 21 to 28, the launch of the “English for Work” course for college students, and the approval for the establishment of 40 new Hunar Sikhiya Schools to provide technical training to youth across the state.

These steps aim to strengthen Punjab’s economy, improve employability, and diversify skill development efforts in a rapidly evolving job market.

Budget Session to Be Held from March 21

In a crucial decision, the Punjab Cabinet approved the summoning of the Budget session of the 16th Punjab Vidhan Sabha from March 21 to 28. The session will kick off with the Governor’s address on March 21, followed by a discussion of the address.

The Finance Minister will present the Punjab Budget for the year 2025-26 on March 26, with a general discussion on the budget taking place soon after. This session is set to outline the state’s fiscal policies and allocate funds for ongoing and upcoming development projects in Punjab.

Launch of “English for Work” Course for College Students

In a bid to improve employability among college students, the Cabinet has approved the implementation of the “English for Work” course, which will enhance students’ English communication skills to make them more competitive in the workforce. This program is part of a partnership with the British Council Education India Private Limited (BCEIPL).

The “English for Work” course will be offered to approximately 5,000 students across various government colleges in Punjab every year. The course aims to provide students with the communication skills required in a professional setting, making them job-ready.

The Cabinet also gave approval for the exemption of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with British Council from Section 63(1) of The Punjab Transparency in Public Procurement Act, 2019. This exemption is necessary to continue the program for the next two financial years, 2025-26 and 2026-27.

Establishment of 40 New Hunar Sikhiya Schools

In another key decision, the Punjab Cabinet approved the opening of 40 new Hunar Sikhiya Schools (Schools of Applied Learning) across the state. These schools will focus on providing vocational education and technical training to students, helping them acquire job-specific skills.

The Hunar Sikhiya Schools will offer courses in areas such as Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI), Digital Design and Development, Beauty and Wellness, and Healthcare Sciences and Services. Additionally, students will receive training in essential life skills such as functional English, career foundations, and technology in everyday life (including email writing, work planning, and using digital tools).

The total cost of the project is estimated at Rs 32 crore, and the schools will aim to provide practical training that leads to better job opportunities in growing industries.

Empowering Punjab’s Youth with Skill Development

The introduction of Hunar Sikhiya Schools and the “English for Work” course marks a significant step in the state’s effort to enhance education and skill development. With these initiatives, the Punjab government aims to create a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of emerging industries in areas such as digital technologies, financial services, and healthcare.

By focusing on vocational education and improving English communication skills, the Punjab government hopes to reduce youth unemployment and create a more competitive and diverse workforce. The launch of these programs aligns with CM Bhagwant Singh Mann’s vision to position Punjab as a state that offers its youth the skills and education needed to succeed in today’s globalized job market.

Cabinet’s Strategic Focus on Education and Employment

These latest initiatives are part of the Punjab government’s broader agenda to enhance the education system, promote youth employability, and foster an environment conducive to economic growth. With a focus on technical education, the state is positioning itself as a leader in providing students with industry-specific skills that are increasingly in demand.

The launch of 40 Hunar Sikhiya Schools will provide essential technical training to students who might otherwise lack access to such programs, while the “English for Work” course ensures that students are equipped with the necessary language skills to excel in today’s workplace.

Key Highlights of the Punjab Cabinet’s Approvals

• Punjab Budget Session scheduled from March 21 to 28, with Finance Minister presenting the budget on March 26.
• Launch of the “English for Work” course to improve communication skills and enhance employability for 5,000 students annually.
• 40 new Hunar Sikhiya Schools to be opened at an estimated cost of Rs 32 crore, providing technical training in key sectors such as BFSI, Digital Design, Healthcare, and more.
• A focus on enhancing youth employment and equipping students with vocational skills needed for the future job market.