AI Generated Summary
- In a significant move aimed at strengthening higher education and public administration in the state, the Punjab Cabinet approved the establishment of a world-class university named Guru Tegh Bahadur in Anandpur Sahib.
- In a humanitarian gesture, the Cabinet approved an ex gratia grant of ₹1 crore to the family of Punjab Home Guards volunteer Ashok Kumar, who was killed in Adhian village in Gurdaspur district.
- According to an official statement, a draft Bill for setting up the university will be introduced in the ongoing session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly.
In a significant move aimed at strengthening higher education and public administration in the state, the Punjab Cabinet approved the establishment of a world-class university named Guru Tegh Bahadur in Anandpur Sahib.
According to an official statement, a draft Bill for setting up the university will be introduced in the ongoing session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly. The proposed institution is expected to emerge as a major academic centre while also promoting the historical and cultural legacy associated with the revered Sikh Guru.
In another key decision aimed at strengthening higher education, the Cabinet approved the recruitment of 1,158 faculty positions in government colleges across the state. The fresh recruitment drive will include 1,091 assistant professors and 67 librarians, a move expected to address staff shortages and improve the quality of teaching in public institutions.
The Cabinet also approved a new policy designed to streamline reservation benefits for sportspersons seeking government jobs or admission to educational institutions. The policy introduces a transparent system for evaluating sporting achievements by assigning marks to various certificates. Under the framework, 75 per cent weightage will be given to achievements in sports, while the remaining 25 per cent will be based on performance in the relevant entrance examination.
To strengthen healthcare services, the Cabinet cleared an amendment to the Punjab Health and Family Welfare Technical (Group-C) Service Rules, 2016. The amendment adds a diploma in pharmacy as an eligible qualification for recruitment to the post of pharmacist. Officials said the decision will allow more qualified candidates to apply for these posts and improve the delivery of healthcare services across the state.
In a humanitarian gesture, the Cabinet approved an ex gratia grant of ₹1 crore to the family of Punjab Home Guards volunteer Ashok Kumar, who was killed in Adhian village in Gurdaspur district.
Among other decisions, the Cabinet granted approval to introduce the Punjab Regulation of Crusher Units, Stockists, and Retailers (Amendment) Bill, 2026 during the current Assembly session. It also cleared the development of a world-class MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) facility along with a multi-purpose structure designed to host commercial, scientific, educational and governmental events.
The government further approved the rationalisation of property prices under the Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA). In another legislative reform, the Cabinet gave its nod to enact the Punjab Prisons and Correctional Services Bill, 2026, which will replace the colonial-era Prisons Act, 1894. The proposed law aims to modernise prison administration and enhance security through the use of advanced technology and surveillance systems.
Officials said the decisions reflect the state government’s focus on expanding educational opportunities, improving governance, and modernising key public institutions.
