Punjab Government Unveils New Agriculture and Education Policies to Boost Growth and Employment

The Punjab Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, discussed the formation of new agriculture and education policies to boost food production and employment. The new policies aim to conserve groundwater, transform education, and expand the one-time settlement scheme for VAT cases. Tax reforms for commercial vehicle owners were also introduced.

The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, convened Thursday to discuss the formulation of a new agriculture policy in the state.

A spokesperson from the Chief Minister's Office emphasized the need for a robust agriculture policy to boost food production, save groundwater, and make agriculture profitable.

The policy will involve all major stakeholders, and Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema highlighted the critical status of Punjab's groundwater levels. The new policy will be announced soon.

In another significant decision, the Cabinet approved a new education policy to enhance skill and technical education, aiming to improve youth employment and contribute to Punjab's socio-economic growth.

The Cabinet also decided to expand the one-time settlement scheme for VAT cases, recovering Rs 164 crore. Additionally, tax reforms for commercial vehicle owners were introduced, allowing annual lump-sum tax payments and offering rebates for new vehicle buyers.

(With inputs from agencies.)