North News
Batala, December 6
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday criticized traditional political parties for neglecting the border region, accusing them of exploiting its people for political gain. Speaking at the inauguration of an upgraded sugar mill in Batala, Mann blamed previous governments for stalling development and implicating youth in false cases to secure their own interests.
The Chief Minister highlighted the border region’s resilience, noting its history of safeguarding the nation’s unity. He pledged his government’s commitment to reversing decades of neglect with projects like the newly revamped sugar mill, constructed at a cost of ₹296 crore.
“The mill boasts a capacity of crushing 3,500 tons of sugar daily and includes a 14 MW co-generation plant. It is India’s first cooperative mill producing refined sugar and utilizes advanced technology to cut pollution equivalent to emissions from 30,000 cars. The mill will also process waste to create 20 tons of organic fertilizer daily, benefiting the local economy,” he added.
Mann lauded Punjab’s farmers for receiving the world’s highest sugarcane rates and reiterated his government’s focus on environmental protection and sustainable development. He also criticized opposition parties for fostering divisive politics, contrasting it with his government’s emphasis on sectors like education, health, and infrastructure.
Taking a swipe at Akali leaders, Mann mocked their electoral overconfidence and credited the electorate for ousting them. He emphasized ongoing efforts to create local jobs to curb migration and engage youth in Punjab’s economic progress.
