The Punjab Cabinet recently made several significant decisions, aimed at improving the lives of its citizens. These decisions were approved during a high-level meeting at the Chief Minister’s official residence in Chandigarh.
The Mukh Mantri Teerath Yatra Scheme
The Cabinet approved the revival of the Mukh Mantri Teerath Yatra scheme, a program that provides free trips to religious sites across India for senior citizens. The government has allocated Rs 100 crore for this initiative, ensuring that thousands of pilgrims can undertake these spiritual journeys at no personal expense.
Key Features of the Scheme
- Air-conditioned transport will be provided to pilgrims
- Comfortable lodging will be arranged
- Meals will be served
- Religious destinations will include Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, Durgiana Temple in Amritsar, Ayodhya’s Ram Temple, and other key pilgrimage sites
The registration process for the scheme will begin in the last week of April, with the first batch of pilgrims embarking on their journey in May 2025.
Ambitions to Curb Illegal Sand Mining
The Cabinet also approved amendments to the state’s Minor Mineral Policy, aimed at curbing illegal sand mining, reducing corruption, increasing the availability of construction material, and stabilizing market prices for sand and gravel.
Key Amendments to the Policy
- Two new categories have been introduced: Crusher Mining Sites (CRMS) and Landowner Mining Sites (LMS)
- Crusher Mining Sites: Crusher owners can now obtain a mining lease and extract resources legally
- Landowner Mining Sites: Farmers and landowners with sand deposits can now directly apply for a mining lease and sell sand in the open market at government-notified rates
- Increased royalty charges: Sand royalty increased to Rs 1.75 per cubic feet, while gravel royalty increased to Rs 3.20 per cubic feet
These changes are expected to curb illegal sand mining, increase local supply, and make raw materials more affordable for consumers.
A Unique School Mentorship Program
In another transformative decision, the Punjab Cabinet approved the launch of a school mentorship initiative in 80 ‘Schools of Eminence’, where senior IAS, IPS, and IFS officers will act as mentors to students. This program aims to bridge the gap between bureaucrats and young learners, inspiring them to consider careers in civil services and other leadership roles.
Key Features of the Program
- Senior IAS, IPS, and IFS officers will act as mentors to students
- Each officer will “adopt” one school for a period of five years, irrespective of their place of posting
- Officers will interact with students and teachers regularly, providing career guidance, motivational sessions, and skill-development assistance
- The program is designed to instill leadership qualities and encourage students to aspire for competitive exams such as the UPSC and state civil services
Quote from Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema
“Spiritual discourses, devotional singing, like satsang and kirtan, and prasad distribution will be part of the itinerary to enhance the religious experience,” said the spokesperson, adding that the scheme would be inclusive, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds.
Quote from a Government Spokesperson
“Spiritual discourses, devotional singing, like satsang and kirtan, and prasad distribution will be part of the itinerary to enhance the religious experience,” said the spokesperson, adding that the scheme would be inclusive, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds.
Quote from a Senior IAS Officer
“The program is designed to instill leadership qualities and encourage students to aspire for competitive exams such as the UPSC and state civil services,” said the spokesperson, adding that the scheme would be inclusive, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds.
Tables
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Air-conditioned transport | Provided to pilgrims |
| Comfortable lodging | Arranged for pilgrims |
| Meals | Served to pilgrims |
| Religious destinations | Include Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, Durgiana Temple in Amritsar, Ayodhya’s Ram Temple, and other key pilgrimage sites |
Definitions
The Minor Mineral Policy is a set of guidelines governing the extraction of minor minerals, including sand and gravel, in the state of Punjab.
Crusher Mining Sites (CRMS) refer to the designated areas where crusher owners can extract resources legally.
Landowner Mining Sites (LMS) refer to the designated areas where farmers and landowners with sand deposits can extract resources and sell sand in the open market.
Final Thoughts
The Punjab Cabinet’s decisions aim to benefit the common people by providing affordable sand, curbing illegal mining, and promoting educational development. The Mukh Mantri Teerath Yatra scheme, the amendments to the Minor Mineral Policy, and the school mentorship program are innovative initiatives that will have a lasting impact on the lives of Punjab’s citizens.
