Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday distributed seed grants worth Rs 1.1 crore to 31 startups, urging the state's next generation of entrepreneurs to establish their companies in Punjab and generate local employment and wealth.
Diverse Sectors Represented
The selected startups represent diverse fields including agriculture, artificial intelligence, technology, governance, textiles, and manufacturing. Under the Punjab Startup & Industrial Policy 2026, the seed grant assistance has been enhanced from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. Seven startups received grants of Rs 5 lakh each, while 24 startups received Rs 3 lakh each.
CM's Vision
Mann drew a parallel between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and startups, stating that AAP itself was born from an idea at a time when dynastic politics dominated the country and the common man had been sidelined. He described AAP as "a startup that cleaned the political system with its symbol of the broom."
Referring to the 2022 assembly elections, Mann said, "The people of Punjab rejected seven former chief ministers and their families and gave an opportunity to an honest government. That decision has transformed Punjab and made it a frontrunner in the country."
Assurance of Support
Mann assured all startups of full support, saying, "We will handhold you, listen to you, support you, and resolve every difficulty you face. Just as a small seed requires water, nourishment, and care to grow into a healthy plant, an entrepreneur needs financial support to transform an idea into a successful business."
Policy Objectives
An official added that the 2026 policy aims to encourage young people to become job creators instead of job seekers and promote innovation-driven growth across sectors. The initiative also seeks to address the challenge of youth migration by creating opportunities within Punjab.
