Minister Harpal Cheema lays foundation stone for Rs 10 crore Girls’ hostel, announces Digital library at Mata Sundri University Girls College
Babushahi Bureau
Mansa (Punjab), February 21, 2026:Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Saturday laid the foundation stone for a new girls’ hostel at Mata Sundri University Girls College, reiterating the state government’s commitment to strengthening higher education infrastructure and ensuring safe accommodation for female students.
Addressing the gathering, Cheema said the hostel, being constructed at an estimated cost of around ₹10 crore, will be completed within six months. He stated that the facility will provide significant relief to students coming from distant areas to pursue higher education. The hostel will have the capacity to accommodate 122 students, offering them a secure and supportive residential environment.
The Finance Minister also announced the establishment of a modern digital library at the college at a cost of ₹13 lakh. He said the facility would enhance academic resources and support students in preparing for competitive examinations.
Highlighting the broader development agenda of the state, Cheema said Punjab is witnessing progress across sectors under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. He recalled that during his previous visit to the campus, students had raised concerns about the lack of residential facilities.
Acting on their feedback, the government coordinated with concerned departments and initiated the project under the PM-USHA scheme.
On employment, Cheema said that more than 63,000 government jobs have been provided to Punjab’s youth over the past four years through a transparent and merit-based recruitment process. He added that this has helped restore public confidence and curb the trend of migration abroad.
Reaffirming the government’s stance on law and order, the Finance Minister said a special campaign is underway to eliminate drugs and gangsterism from the state, asserting that no one attempting to disturb peace will be spared.
Mansa MLA Dr. Vijay Singla also addressed the event and thanked the Chief Minister and Finance Minister for boosting educational infrastructure in the region. College Principal Dr. Barinder Kaur and Dr. Amar Inder Singh, Director (CC), Punjabi University Patiala, welcomed the dignitaries and appreciated the government’s continued support.
During his visit, Cheema also witnessed kickboxing matches on the campus, encouraged the athletes, and interacted with students.
The programme was attended by Budhlada MLA Principal Budh Ram, Deputy Commissioner Mansa Navjot Kaur, District Planning Board Chairman Gurpreet Singh Bhuchar, OSD Tapinder Singh Sohi, Director Aman Mittal, SDM Kala Ram Kansal, Municipal Council President Sunil Kumar Neenu, and other officials and dignitaries.