26 October 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has described young people as the driving force behind his vision of “Rangla Punjab”, urging them to focus on education, hard work, creativity and cultural heritage to help shape the state’s future.
Addressing students at a regional youth festival held at Desh Bhagat College in Bararwal village, Dhuri, in Sangrur district on Sunday, October 25, 2026, Mann said Punjab’s youth possess enormous potential and must be provided with the right opportunities and encouragement to succeed.
The festival brought together students from 39 colleges, with around 60 activities organised across four stages. The programme featured cultural and creative activities, including music, dance, theatre, literature and folk arts, giving students an opportunity to showcase their abilities beyond traditional academic settings.
Mann said youth festivals were not merely platforms for entertainment but also opportunities to develop confidence, independent thinking, cooperation and a sense of responsibility. He emphasised that education should go beyond classrooms, textbooks and examination results to help students become capable and responsible citizens.
According to the Chief Minister, Punjab’s future depends on nurturing the talent of its younger generation and ensuring that young people receive meaningful opportunities to excel in different fields. He encouraged students to remain connected to their cultural roots while embracing new opportunities in education, employment and other areas.
Mann also highlighted the importance of Punjab’s rich cultural heritage, describing traditional music, folk dances, indigenous games and artistic traditions as important elements of the state’s identity. He said youth festivals and folk events help preserve these traditions and pass them on to future generations.
The Chief Minister called on young people to work hard and remain determined while pursuing their ambitions. He said a progressive Punjab could be built by empowering young people with knowledge, confidence, creativity and a clear sense of purpose.
Speaking about education and employment, Mann said his government was working to develop Punjab as a leading destination for education. He stated that government schools were being upgraded and that new career opportunities were being created for young people.
Mann also claimed that his government had provided more than 70,000 government jobs on merit. He reiterated that young people should be able to secure opportunities through their abilities and hard work rather than political influence or recommendations.
He stressed that educational institutions have a responsibility to identify students’ potential, provide a supportive environment and ensure that talent does not go unnoticed because of a lack of encouragement.
The Chief Minister further said Punjab needed elected representatives who understood the problems and concerns of ordinary people. He urged young citizens to remain aware of the issues affecting society and contribute positively to the state’s development.
Mann’s address linked education, cultural participation and employment opportunities with his broader vision of “Rangla Punjab”. He said the aspirations and achievements of young people would play a decisive role in determining the state’s future.
The regional youth festival provided a platform for students to participate in creative activities, exchange ideas and celebrate Punjab’s cultural diversity. Such events, Mann said, can encourage mutual respect, teamwork and creative thinking while helping students develop skills that are useful beyond academic life.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister encouraged young people to pursue their dreams with dedication and remain proud of their heritage while preparing for the challenges and opportunities of the future. He said that with the right support and determination, Punjab’s youth could contribute to building a stronger, more vibrant and culturally rich state.