PM’s Punjab vision takes new leap forward: Chugh

Chandigarh/Jalandhar, July 16, 2026: BJP National General Secretary and Rajya Sabha MP Tarun Chugh said that Punjab will script a new chapter in development when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Jalandhar tomorrow. He said the visit is a powerful reaffirmation of the Prime Minister's unwavering commitment to the state's development, infrastructure, spiritual heritage and cultural identity.
"Punjab and Punjabiyat have always been close to the Prime Minister's heart, and his contributions to the state have set new benchmarks for development and inclusive growth," Chugh said.
He said the Prime Minister will dedicate and launch projects worth over ₹5,470 crore, including major railway and national highway infrastructure projects that will strengthen connectivity, generate employment, boost economic activity and accelerate Punjab's growth.
Recalling the Modi government's contributions to Punjab, Chugh said the Prime Minister honoured Sikh heritage by facilitating FCRA registration for Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), ensuring tax relief for the sacred langar. He also fulfilled a decades-old aspiration by opening the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, enabling lakhs of devotees to pay obeisance at Gurdwara Darbar Sahib.
He said the Modi government commemorated the 550th Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the 350th Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and the 400th Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji with unprecedented grandeur in India and across the world, taking the eternal message of the Sikh Gurus to a global audience.
Chugh described the declaration of Veer Bal Diwas as a historic tribute to the unparalleled sacrifice of the Sahibzadas, ensuring that future generations remain inspired by their courage, faith and patriotism.
He further said that the redevelopment of the Jallianwala Bagh Memorial, support extended to Afghan Sikhs during times of distress, solidarity with the Sikh community in Pakistan, protection of the rights of Sikhs in Jammu & Kashmir, and initiatives aimed at empowering Sikh youth and strengthening connectivity reflect the Modi government's enduring commitment to Sikh welfare and national integration.
Referring to the Prime Minister's visit, Chugh said the new rail connectivity to the birthplace of Sant Guru Ravidas Ji in Varanasi will make pilgrimage easier for lakhs of devotees from Punjab, promote faith tourism and strengthen cultural ties. Improved rail connectivity will also provide a significant boost to trade, industry and regional economic growth.