‘Turning Job Seekers into Job Givers’: CM Mann Launches Mission Pragati in Bathinda

January 11, 2026

Bathinda, January 11, 2026: Reinforcing the Punjab government’s focus on preparing youth for competitive careers, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday interacted with candidates and students enrolled under Mission Pragati at the District Library in Bathinda. The initiative aims to provide free academic and physical training to rural and meritorious students for recruitment examinations such as the SSB, police, and armed forces.

Free Coaching for Rural and Meritorious Students

Addressing students who gathered despite the cold, CM Mann described Mission Pragati as the beginning of a bright future for Punjab’s youth.
“The Punjab Government has launched this coaching programme at the District Library where free preparation is being provided for competitive examinations. The aim is to support meritorious students, especially from rural areas, who lack access to quality and affordable coaching,” he said.

Academic Plus Physical Training for Competitive Exams

Explaining the structure of the programme, the Chief Minister said that 40 students have been enrolled in the first batch.
“Along with academic coaching, physical training is also being provided to ensure complete fitness. This is being conducted by experienced trainers from Punjab Police and C-Pyte at the C-Pyte ground,” he said, adding that students are being prepared for SSB, Punjab Police, CPO, Armed Forces and other state and central recruitment exams.

Free Books and Use of Existing Infrastructure

Highlighting challenges faced by aspirants, CM Mann said that costly study material often remains beyond the reach of students.
“Students will be enrolled as library members and provided the required books free of cost. The programme has been launched using existing infrastructure and resources, resulting in significant financial savings,” he said.

‘Youth Helping Youth’ Mentorship Model

Describing the mentoring framework, the Chief Minister said the programme follows a teacher-mentor model, where faculty members are themselves candidates who have appeared in competitive examinations.
“This initiative has evolved into a ‘youth helping youth’ model, supported by educationists, universities, police, athletes, administrative officers and students. It is a community-driven and cooperative effort,” he stated.

‘No One Left Behind’ Philosophy

CM Mann said Mission Pragati is guided by the principle of “no one left behind” and reflects the government’s commitment to youth empowerment, equal educational opportunities, and increasing Bathinda’s representation in government services.

Education Revolution to Create Job Givers

Speaking on the broader vision of the government, the Chief Minister said sustained efforts are being made to transform young people from job seekers into job givers.
“Punjab has entered a new era of Education Revolution. This revolution is grooming students for future competitions and enabling them to excel in life. Alongside providing jobs, we are channelising the boundless energy of our youth,” he said.

‘Creating a Runway for Dreams’

Drawing an analogy, CM Mann said just as a runway helps an aircraft take off smoothly, the government is creating the right conditions for youth to realise their dreams.
Reflecting on the past, he said flawed policies once denied poor children their right to education, but assured that determined efforts are now being made so that Punjab’s children can turn their dreams into reality and scale new heights.