Indeed, there is an unseen but definite movement occurring in Punjab. Citizens are now discussing the future that would ensure development, respect, and hope for all families in the province.

Today what is observed is not just a new alignment in politics but a desire amongst the citizens of Punjab for an administration that delivers on its promises and works to provide an assured future for our offspring.

The latest trend in West Bengal is a significant lesson for Punjab and even all of India. This is because, in the past, the common assumption was that people will always vote according to their region. But now, the people of Bengal, after years of suffering and chaos, have placed their trust in a party that promises development and progress.

The change in West Bengal did not come overnight. It required hard work and reaching out to people personally, listening to their problems and gaining confidence. The voters of Bengal ignored all other factors and asked one straightforward question: Which party will give us a brighter future?

This is an expression of maturity that has become characteristic of India’s democracy. Every Punjabi must ask himself: if Bengal is able to recreate its future politically, what stops Punjab from doing the same?

Punjab Deserves Better

In plain terms, as a Punjabi speaking to a fellow Punjabi, our state confronts problems that call for immediate solutions. Our gifted youth finds itself being forced into exile due to unemployment.

Drug addiction has been a curse for Punjab, creating many a broken home and lost dreams. The plight of our farmers, who form the lifeline of India’s food security, is worsening due to rising debts and uncertain profits. Industrialization has halted, and the spirit of entrepreneurship and enterprise of Punjab has become defunct.

This is not an issue that has emerged overnight; it has been plaguing Punjab for ages. The patience of the citizens has reached its limit now, and the fact is realized that political parties have come into power by turns but have failed to deliver anything substantial. There is no scope for them to chart the course for the future.

One thing that has been proved by the experience of Bengal is the magic of synchronization between state and central governments. When there is perfect coordination between a state government and the central government, the results are phenomenal. All schemes are implemented in the right way; infrastructure is developed, and investment pours in effortlessly.

Under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, various initiatives have been taken by the central government which could change the fate of Punjab. Ayushman Bharat initiative will provide health security to millions of people. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi will be an income support program for farmers in Punjab. Gati Shakti project will provide infrastructure facilities connecting Punjab with the rest of the world.

Start Up India will channelize the innovative talent of our youths. In addition, Start-Up India initiative will provide a distinct direction to the development of state as well as confidence of people when efforts would be made in a synchronized manner between the government in the state and at the center.

The potential of initiatives taken by the center becomes maximum if the government of state supports central policies wholeheartedly. The frontier state deserves good governance which will welcome the help coming from the center. Punjab is no way to be punished for confrontation instead of cooperation.

Fearless Coexistence and Stability

Being a border state, Punjab has its own security challenges that need a firm government. Drug trafficking through our border areas is not only a challenge to the law enforcement agencies but also an attack on our culture and future generations. Gangsterism has polluted our society, giving rise to a climate of fear where there should be confidence.

To overcome such security challenges, the BJP government will exhibit utmost political will and coordinate with the central government agencies. There would be no bargaining with the criminals to appease them politically in the election year. The BJP government’s commitment towards ensuring national security and strict law and order is not a mere slogan.

Our people deserve fearless living conditions. Our traders need fearless business environment. Our farmers need fearless farming atmosphere. Our children should walk to school without fear of any danger. These are some basic necessities which any government needs to provide to its citizens.

BJP’s involvement with Punjab is not a new thing happening due to the need of votes in the coming elections. It has long had its people working in every district and every village; listening and building relationships based on trust, with farmers, youth, women, businessmen, professionals and workers from every level. Their message has always been clear: “To Serve.”

The youth of Punjab is full of life and pragmatic, less bothered about the politics of yesteryears and more eager for opportunities in the coming days. Their quest is for a good education, good jobs, internet access, and an opportunity to make their lives in their own land rather than go abroad seeking success and wealth. It is time they were governed by those who understand this aspiration.

We are not concerned here with analyzing the past but giving hope for the future. Our state holds great promises in agriculture, industry, services, tourism, and human resources. All we need is leaders who can realize this promise; policies that open opportunities, and governance without discrimination of any kind in terms of race, caste, religion, or region.

BJP presents to Punjab its vision of prosperity through development, security through good governance, unity through equality, and self-assurance through resolute leadership.

The time for transformation in Punjab has come and the path for our people is well defined. / DAILY WORLD /

( Satnam Singh Sandhu is a Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha). Satnam.sandhu@sansad.nic.in. The views expressed here are personal.)