The Punjab government on Monday issued appointment letters to 606 newly recruited employees in the education department at a function held at Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann personally handed over the appointment letters and addressed the recruits on the occasion.
Congratulating the appointees on the new year and their new responsibilities, the Chief Minister said the fresh recruitment includes 385 special educator teachers and eight principals. He also congratulated Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains and senior officials for completing the recruitment process.
Mann said calling the recruits to Chandigarh was not about taking credit but about ensuring direct accountability between employees and the administration. He remarked that previous governments failed to process appointments in time, using official powers only for their close aides. “You are my family. The happiness I feel today is the same as when a member of my own family gets a job,” he said, adding that the government is working to fulfil the dreams of the families of the newly appointed employees.
Referring to the recruitment of special educators, the Chief Minister said a separate cadre had to be created to ensure appointments for teaching children with special needs. He said such children often require extra care and support, and trained teachers play a crucial role in their lives.
Mann stressed that in the future, a person would not be judged by wealth or luxury but by how educated their children are. He cautioned against chasing wealth at the cost of values, saying history has shown that unchecked greed ultimately leads to loss and regret.
Sharing examples from abroad, Mann said discipline is strictly enforced in several countries, where even driving records are examined while considering job applications. On similar lines, Punjab has begun assessing teachers on the basis of their teaching performance and conduct, and recognition is given accordingly to maintain quality and responsibility in education.
He also announced that all categories of teachers, including temporary staff, will now be included in official functions on January 26 and August 15, ensuring equal respect and participation for all.
Urging people to live in the present, the Chief Minister said happiness often gets lost when individuals keep postponing contentment. He said a positive approach to life is essential for both personal well being and professional growth.
Mann reiterated the government’s commitment to increasing the education budget, saying greater investment is necessary to secure a better future for coming generations. He also emphasised that children should be encouraged to pursue education according to their interests, whether in academics, sports, or creative fields, as this alone can strengthen Punjab and the country.