CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Calls For Stronger Cooperation With Indian Army For Welfare Of Punjab & Nation

Chandigarh, August 10, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday called for stronger cooperation between the Punjab Government and the Indian Army to safeguard the state and the nation, strengthen the second line of defence along the border, boost the recruitment of Punjabis in the Armed Forces and ensure the welfare of serving soldiers and ex-servicemen. 
During his meeting with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Dhiraj Seth in Chandigarh, the Chief Minister also discussed national security and military matters concerning Punjab, including the need to strengthen anti-drone measures to check cross-border smuggling.
Sharing a few snippets from the meeting, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Today, I had an important meeting in Chandigarh with India’s 31st Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Dhiraj Seth. During the meeting, we held meaningful discussions on the security of the country and military matters related to Punjab. Our government is fully committed to the welfare of our brave soldiers and ex-servicemen who protect the nation. Inquilab Zindabad.”
During a meeting with Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth PVSM UYSM AVSM, who called on him today, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjabis have always been on the forefront of safeguarding the borders of the country. The state government is already working tirelessly to enhance the recruitment of Punjabis in the Armed Forces. Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Girls and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, along with a network of C-Pyte centres, are playing a key role in it.”
The Chief Minister said, “Punjab has a 532 kilometre hostile border with Pakistan, due to which anti-drone technology along with low-lying interceptive radars is the need of the hour to check cross-border smuggling through drones. Punjab is the first state in the country to install its own anti-drone technology. I solicit the support of the Chief of Army Staff for augmenting the efforts being made by the Punjab Police, which always acts as a second line of defence.”
Talking about the welfare of ex-servicemen, he said, “The state government is giving jobs to ex-servicemen who have been employed by PESCO (Punjab Ex-Servicemen Corporation) and are rendering marvellous services to people.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Retreating ceremonies at Wagah, Hussainiwala and Sadqi borders attract huge crowds from across the globe. The state government has already given 200 acres of its prime land in Ropar to the Indian Army, which can be duly utilised for giving a boost to the defence sector.”
Assuring fulsome support and cooperation to the Indian Army, the Chief Minister stated, “The Punjab government is fully committed to this noble cause and no stone will be left unturned for it. Ever since its inception, Punjab has been on the forefront of preserving the unity and integrity of the country, and this tradition will be further continued. I profusely thank the Indian Army for extending a helping hand to the people of the state during the hour of crisis, especially during the recent floods.”
Meanwhile, the Chief of the Army Staff reassured the Punjab government of the Indian Army's resolve and commitment towards Nation building. He also expressed his gratitude towards the State government for its policies that promote welfare of veterans. 
The meeting further strengthened the civil military synergy in the region and enhanced the confidence and trust towards jointly ensuring internal security, Border tranquility, response to natural disasters, external threats and other crises.
On the occasion Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, Principal Secretary to CM Dr Ravi Bhagat, Special DGP PK Sinha, Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, AVSM, SM** Army Commander Western Command, Colonel Jasdeep Sandhu, Advisor Civil Military Affairs and others were also present.