Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Announces Major Rs 75-Crore Development Package for Nangal
In a significant move aimed at transforming the region, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday unveiled a comprehensive Rs 75-crore development package for Nangal in Ropar district. The ambitious initiative is designed to turn Nangal into a hub of modern infrastructure, skill development, and tourism, marking a new chapter in the area's growth trajectory.
North India's First Glass Bridge and Tourism Boost
Among the flagship projects announced is the construction of North India's first glass bridge, to be built over the lake at Shivalik Park at a cost of Rs 10 crore. Chief Minister Mann emphasized that this innovative structure will significantly boost tourism in the region and is slated for completion within a tight timeframe of six months. The glass bridge is expected to become a major attraction, drawing visitors from across the country and enhancing Nangal's profile as a tourist destination.
Captain Amol Kalia Centre of Excellence for Skill Development
In a tribute to national hero Captain Amol Kalia, a Kargil martyr, Mann laid the foundation stone for the Captain Amol Kalia Centre of Excellence. This state-of-the-art institute, with a budget of Rs 23 crore, will focus on providing industry-oriented education to 540 students. The curriculum will include cutting-edge courses such as:
- Robotics and automation technology
- Electric vehicle (EV) technology and maintenance
- Solar energy systems and installation
- 3D printing and additive manufacturing
- Drone piloting and training programs
Additionally, the centre will offer specialized programs in civil aviation and air hostess training, aligning with the growing demands of the aviation sector. Mann highlighted the government's commitment to expanding technical education and employment-oriented learning, noting that ITI seat capacity in Punjab has been dramatically increased from 32,000 to 52,308 for the 2025-26 academic year. Furthermore, 814 new industry-linked courses have been introduced to ensure students are equipped with relevant skills for the job market.
Enhanced Education Infrastructure in Nangal
The development package also includes substantial investments in education infrastructure. A 500-seat auditorium will be constructed at the School of Eminence in Nangal, with an allocated budget of Rs 10 crore. This facility is intended to host academic events, cultural programs, and community gatherings. Complementing this, a four-storey academic block featuring 12 modern classrooms and four well-equipped laboratories will be built at a cost of Rs 8 crore, providing students with a conducive learning environment.
Water Management and Canal Network Improvements
Addressing critical infrastructure needs, Chief Minister Mann detailed the state government's efforts in water management. He reported that canal capacity has been significantly improved, ensuring water reaches the tail ends of the distribution network. According to Mann, 1,444 villages are now receiving canal water, a milestone achieved through a massive investment of Rs 6,500 crore dedicated to rejuvenating and expanding the canal network across Punjab.
Political Context and Accusations
During the announcement event, Mann did not shy away from political commentary, launching a sharp attack on the Shiromani Akali Dal. He alleged that the drug trade flourished under their tenure and accused its leaders of having "blood of Punjab's youth on their hands". This statement underscores the ongoing political tensions in the state and frames the development package as part of a broader effort to address past governance issues.
Earlier in the event, Minister Harjot Singh Bains expressed confidence that these projects would accelerate development in the Nangal assembly segment, fostering economic growth and improving quality of life for residents. The comprehensive package reflects the Punjab government's strategic focus on holistic development, combining tourism, education, and infrastructure to create sustainable progress in the region.
