516 Daily-Wage Employees of Forest Department Regularized; CM Mann Hands Over Appointment Letters

August 2, 2026

In a major decision benefiting contractual and daily-wage staff, the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has regularized the services of 516 daily-wage employees of the Forest Department.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann handed over appointment letters to the employees during a ceremony held in Chandigarh. Additionally, long-pending promotions for 237 officers and employees of the department were approved. Cabinet Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, Forest Department Secretary KK Yadav, and several senior officials and dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Pledge to End the Contractual System

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that his government has taken concrete steps towards abolishing the contractual employment system. He noted that, so far, over 68,000 youths have been provided with regular government jobs based entirely on merit. The Punjab Government aims to ensure dignity, equal opportunities, and job security for every deserving employee.

Emphasis on the ‘Rangla Punjab’ Vision

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Punjab Government is continuously working to realize its vision of “Rangla Punjab.” He remarked that providing secure and dignified employment to staff is part of this vision. He asserted that the government does not take any decision that would harm the interests of the employees or the state.

Over 65,000 Contractual Employees to Benefit

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann mentioned that more than 65,000 contractual employees have been serving in various departments across Punjab for years. Under the new policy, there will no longer be a role for contractors between the employees and the government; this ensures direct employment and paves a clear path for future regularization of services.

Details on Job Security and Salary Structure

According to the Punjab Government, under the policy implemented on May 16, 2023, eligible employees will be granted job security up to the age of 58. A clear salary structure has also been determined for these employees in accordance with the guidelines issued in January 2024. A decision has been made to extend the benefits of the policy by granting special exemptions even to those employees whose educational qualifications fall short of the prescribed standards.

Appreciation for the Forest Department Employees’ Contribution

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the daily-wage employees of the Forest Department have played a pivotal role over the years in the conservation of Punjab’s forests, green cover, and wildlife. He noted that 1,458 daily-wage employees of the Forest Department have been regularized over the past four years, while 342 new employees have been recruited on a regular basis in the last five years.

Employees Express Gratitude to the Punjab Government

Sharing their experiences at the event, several newly regularized employees mentioned that they had been serving the department for years, yet their issues had never previously received attention. Expressing their gratitude to Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, they stated that securing regular employment has ensured a secure future for their families and instilled a sense of renewed hope in them.