Punjab Cabinet takes key decisions: ‘Hamare Ram shows in 40 cities, 1,000 yoga trainers to be recruited

PTC Web Desk: The Punjab Cabinet on Tuesday approved a series of major policy decisions. Addressing a press conference after the Cabinet meeting, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said a total of 11 important decisions were taken.

One of the most prominent announcements was the decision to stage the Ram-based theatrical production ‘Hamare Ram’ across 40 locations in Punjab, featuring several renowned artists from across the country. The Cabinet also gave approval for the recruitment of 1,000 new yoga trainers under the CM Yogshala project.

Faster transfer of public land

To eliminate delays in the allocation of public land, the Punjab Cabinet amended procedures under the Punjab Municipal Management and Transfer Act, 2020. Earlier, transferring urban land between government departments or institutions often took months due to procedural hurdles. Now, all powers related to leasing, sale or auction of public land for public purposes will rest with a committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner, which will also decide the terms and conditions. Cheema said this step would significantly reduce delays, citing instances where land allotment earlier took nearly eight months.

Revenue from govt roads 

The Cabinet approved a policy to allow Local Bodies Department to earn revenue from government-owned kutcha roads that later become part of urban or residential areas. Earlier, such land generated no income for the state. Similar models had already been implemented in GMADA and GLADA.

Limited extension for real estate projects

Under the PAPRA Act, colonisers were earlier allowed annual extensions after five years by paying a nominal fee. The Cabinet has now restricted this to a one-time extension of three years, subject to payment of Rs 25,000 per acre per year. The move aims to ensure timely completion of housing projects and protect homebuyers.

FAR charges reduced

To encourage development, the government reduced charges on Floor Area Ratio (FAR) acquired through e-auction from 50% to 25%, making construction more affordable.

Hospitals brought under Baba Farid University

Four health institutions,  Civil Hospital Badal (Sri Muktsar Sahib), District Hospital Khadoor Sahib (Tarn Taran), CHC Jalalabad and Tertiary Care Hospital Fazilka, have been brought under Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, strengthening medical education and administration.

1,000 new yoga trainers

Given the success of the CM Yogshala project, the Cabinet approved recruitment of 1,000 additional yoga trainers. They will undergo eight months of field training with a stipend of Rs 8,000 per month, followed by a regular salary of Rs 25,000 per month once deployed.

Clear rules for Punjab Civil Services

To avoid legal disputes, the Cabinet clarified that candidates applying for Punjab Civil Services posts must possess the prescribed educational qualifications by the last date of application submission.

Service rules for excise and taxation dept

The Cabinet approved long-pending service rules for Superintendent Grade-I posts in the Excise and Taxation Department, addressing administrative gaps.

Sugarcane payment rate approved

For the benefit of farmers, the government approved payment to sugarcane growers by private sugar mills at the rate of Rs 68.50 per quintal, the highest in the country.

Expansion of horticulture sector

In collaboration with Japan, the Cabinet approved a long-term project to expand Punjab’s horticulture area from 6% to 15% over the next 10 years, aiming to improve farmer incomes and diversify agriculture.

‘Hamare Ram’ shows across 40 cities

The Cabinet approved the staging of ‘Hamare Ram’ theatrical show, based on the life of Lord Ram, in 40 major cities of Punjab. The government said the performances would promote positive social values, with the final implementation to be overseen by a designated committee.