MOGA:Marking a decisive shift from years of tokenism to tangible action, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday announced that the birthplace of Punjab Kesri Lala Lajpat Rai at Dhudike would be developed as a model village with world-class civic amenities and basic infrastructure. Addressing the gathering at the 71st Lala Lajpat Rai Janam Diwas Khed Mela, the Chief Minister said previous governments only drafted plans in files, but his government would ensure their execution on the ground within a fixed timeline.

The Chief Minister declared that sewerage, rejuvenation of the village pond, development of modern playgrounds and upgrading of all essential infrastructure would be completed to high standards. He assured that all works would be finished within a year and announced that he would personally return on Lala Ji’s next birth anniversary to review and dedicate the completed projects to the people.

In a symbolic gesture reflecting his close bond with the public, CM Mann set aside security protocols and joined villagers in the stands to watch the kabaddi and hockey matches organised in memory of Lala Lajpat Rai. He shook hands with the players, interacted with youth, took selfies, and sought blessings from elders, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.

“I am a common man, and sitting among my brothers and elders to watch our rural sports, which are the soul of Punjab, gives me immense satisfaction,” he said. The Chief Minister described the event as a vibrant tribute to Lala Lajpat Rai, whose sacrifices and nationalism continue to inspire generations. He said that remembering great freedom fighters was not limited to ceremonies but required transforming their legacy into meaningful development for their native places.

Highlighting the cultural significance of indigenous sports, Bhagwant Singh Mann stressed the urgent need to revive Punjab’s traditional games. “Kabaddi, bullock cart races and other rural sports are not merely competitions; they are the living heritage of Punjab, embodying our strength, unity and identity,” he said. He reiterated the government’s commitment to restoring Punjab’s pristine glory in sports and ensuring that rural youth get robust platforms to showcase their talent.

Inviting people to participate in the prestigious Mini Olympics at Kila Raipur beginning January 31, the Chief Minister said the revival of bullock cart races after a gap of 16 years would be a major attraction. “This is our golden opportunity to relive our traditions and celebrate Punjab’s rich sporting legacy together,” he said.

Striking an emotional chord with the residents of Dhudike, CM Mann announced that all demands raised by the village Panchayat were being accepted and implemented immediately. These include laying of a new sewerage system, rejuvenation of the village pond, construction of a modern playground and execution of other essential infrastructure projects to improve the quality of life of villagers. He said the birthplace of Lala Lajpat Rai must stand as a living tribute to his legacy through development that reflects pride, dignity and progress.

Later, while interacting with the media, the Chief Minister said that the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna was being implemented across Punjab as the largest health reform programme in the state’s history. Under the scheme, every family would now be entitled to cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh, double the earlier limit of ₹5 lakh. He said nearly 65 lakh families would benefit from this ambitious initiative, ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for all sections of society.

On the issue of Punjab’s long-pending demands, CM Mann said it was unfortunate that even after more than 70 years of Independence, the state had been deprived of its capital and the High Court. He reaffirmed that his government would continue making strenuous efforts to reclaim Chandigarh as Punjab’s rightful capital and would leave no stone unturned in safeguarding the interests and pride of Punjabis.

Expressing deep grief over the tragic death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane mishap, the Chief Minister conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. He prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and for strength and courage to the family to bear this irreparable loss.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, MLAs Manjit Singh Bilaspur, Devinder Singh Laddi Dhos, Amritpal Singh Sukhanand, Amandeep Kaur and other dignitaries.