Once the beacon of prosperity in India, Punjab now finds itself at a crossroads. The recent deportations of its youth from the United States to Amritsar serve as a grim reminder of the state’s ongoing decline. Punjab, which once topped the nation across economic and social indices until 2003, has suffered a significant downturn over the past two decades. Even during the era of militancy, its agrarian economy managed to sustain itself. Today, however, the landscape tells a different story.
Historically, Punjab has been a land of industrious and progressive people. Its youth have excelled in the armed forces, administrative services, entrepreneurship, and agriculture. But now, a sense of desperation has taken root, leading many to seek opportunities abroad—often through perilous and illegal means.
Punjab’s industrial and economic resilience suffered major blows due to the Partition of 1947, the Indo-Pak wars, and over a decade of militancy. The state’s debt burden now exceeds Rs 3,50,000 crore, and it ranks at the bottom of the 18-state Fiscal Health Index 2025. However, Punjab’s problems go beyond economics. A political trust deficit looms large, with no party proving capable of reviving its fortunes. The Akali Dal, once a dominant force, has seen its influence wane, while the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has failed to make a meaningful impact midway through its tenure.
Since Independence, Punjab has alternated between the Congress and the Akalis, only to hand over the reins to AAP in search of a fresh start. Yet, every promise of prosperity has remained elusive. The people of Punjab have witnessed leaders journey to Delhi, return with empty assurances, and leave the state in an ever-worsening condition. Punjab has lost much of its bargaining power, and its leaders appear more invested in personal gains than in the state’s revival.
The next generation yearns for change. They recall the legacy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, under whom Punjab stretched from the Indus Valley to Tibet and Delhi. They look to the vision of Partap Singh Kairon, whose leadership from 1957 to 1964 ushered in the Green Revolution and industrial expansion. Yet today, they see a state without a guiding force.
Despite these challenges, Punjabis have made their mark globally. Sikhs have a rich history of leading from the front, whether in battles against the British, fighting in World Wars, or establishing communities worldwide. The success of the Punjabi diaspora makes the recent deportations all the more painful—a symbol of a homeland failing to provide opportunities for its youth.
Punjab’s paradoxes are frustrating. It is a leading producer of wheat and rice but lacks a robust food processing industry. It hosts the Golden Temple, attracting 40 million visitors annually, yet fails to capitalize on tourism. It has a border connecting the subcontinent to Central Asia but engages in little trade. It has a rich entrepreneurial spirit, but investment largely flows out of the state. Despite being the nation’s food bowl, its farmers remain mired in debt.
A revival strategy must include short-term measures to arrest the decline, mid-term policies to stabilize the economy, and a long-term vision for sustainable growth. Key areas for transformation include diversifying the economy, boosting exports, reforming education, addressing environmental degradation, and harnessing the potential of tourism and entrepreneurship. Women’s participation must be prioritized, and a structured plan for economic development should be implemented with precision.
Punjab needs a renaissance, and perhaps the first step has already been taken. Musician Diljit Dosanjh’s anthem, “Oh, Punjabi aa gaye oye” (Punjabis have arrived), has struck a chord with the youth. It may be the clarion call for a new beginning.
It is time for Punjab to reclaim its pride, to rise from the depths, and to once again stand tall on the national and global stage. The road ahead is challenging, but the indomitable spirit of Punjab has always defied the odds. Now is the moment for a collective resurgence, ensuring a future where the state thrives rather than just survives.
