MOHALI : Positioning women at the center of Punjab’s growth story, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday outlined a comprehensive vision for female participation in governance, economy, and society. Speaking at a felicitation event for grassroots women entrepreneurs in Mohali, he detailed the AAP government’s initiatives while urging women to step into decision-making roles and reshape the state’s future.
Addressing the gathering, CM Mann said, “It is imperative that girls empower themselves through education. Women who manage homes efficiently should also have the opportunity to run the country. The state government is committed to this noble cause through various Punjab women empowerment initiatives.”
He further encouraged political participation, stating, “Women must actively participate in politics to bring necessary change in society. Though girls now outnumber boys in many fields, politics remains male-dominated. Greater participation is essential to build an egalitarian society and strengthen grassroots democracy.”
Structural Reforms and Governance
Highlighting AAP’s focus on inclusive governance, CM Mann said, “From DCs to SSPs, the highest-ever appointments of women in Punjab mark a historic shift. These Punjab women empowerment initiatives ensure women have meaningful roles in administration and decision-making.”
Also read : Mann Government Celebrates Women Entrepreneurs at Mahila Udyami Samman 2026 in Punjab
CM Mann also stressed education as the key to social transformation. Drawing global comparisons, he noted, “In China, women drive the economy through production. Punjabi women must take inspiration from legends like Mata Gujri Ji and Mai Bhago. Our government has revamped the education sector to provide quality education, particularly to girls, as part of broader Punjab women empowerment initiatives.”
Economic and Entrepreneurial Programs
Underlining economic empowerment, the CM shared details of programs supporting women entrepreneurs:
- Pehal Startup Project: Over 2,000 startups launched, employing 7,560 people.
- Sakhi Shakti Melas: Organized in 19 districts, generating over ₹1 crore earnings for women.
- Dairy Cooperatives: 7,000 women connected, targeting 1,000 societies and 85,000 liters of milk daily.
- Maavan Dhian Satkar Yojana: Monthly aid of ₹1,000 to women and ₹1,500 for SC women.
“These programs, along with free electricity, cashless healthcare, and job reservations, form the backbone of our Punjab women empowerment initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s role in the economy and society,” CM Mann added.
Recognition and Social Impact
The felicitation honored 100 top-performing women entrepreneurs from 23 districts, while 11,700 women had previously been recognized across 117 constituencies. CM Mann emphasized, “The development of any society is incomplete without women’s contribution. Recognizing grassroots achievers motivates more women to strive for excellence.”
AAP Punjab Prabhari Manish Sisodia also noted, “Earlier, only women from affluent families were recognized. For the first time, ordinary women achievers are being honored. These Punjab women empowerment initiatives are transformative, inspiring women to excel as nation-builders.”
With a combination of educational reforms, political encouragement, and economic support, the Punjab government under CM Mann has positioned women as central agents in shaping the state’s future.