Read all Punjab Cabinet Decisions in detail
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 7, 2025 – In a major decision, the Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has withdrawn the previous Congress government’s decision to deploy the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at Bhakra Dam, asserting the state’s right to manage its own security.
The move was approved during a Cabinet meeting held at the Punjab Civil Secretariat. A spokesperson from the Chief Minister’s Office stated that the Congress-led government’s decision dated July 23, 2021, to allow CISF deployment was “arbitrary” and “against the interests of Punjab.” The Cabinet maintained that the Punjab Police is fully capable of securing key installations like the Bhakra Dam.
The Cabinet also announced that a resolution opposing the CISF deployment will be introduced in the upcoming Assembly session. It was further decided that the Punjab government will not bear any costs associated with the deployment of the central force.
Punjab Approves Bullock Cart Racing with New Regulations
The Cabinet also approved The Punjab Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2025 and The Punjab Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Conduct of Bullock Cart Race) Rules, 2025, paving the way for regulated rural sports events like bullock cart races. These rules will ensure animal welfare through veterinary supervision, registration, safety standards, and penalties for violations. The move aims to promote Punjab’s traditional sports while preserving indigenous cattle breeds.
3,600 Special Educator Posts Approved for Government Schools
In a significant step towards inclusive education, the Cabinet sanctioned 3,600 new posts for Special Educator Teachers across government schools. This includes 1,950 posts at the primary level and 1,650 at the secondary level. The decision is expected to benefit nearly 47,979 children with special needs studying in state-run schools. The posts will be created by restructuring vacant positions over the next three years.
Tenure Security for 22 Vocational Institute Employees
The Cabinet also granted security of tenure to 22 employees working against 37 sanctioned posts at the Rural Institute for Vocational Training in Badal. This move, based on recommendations from the Finance and Personnel Departments, is expected to resolve longstanding legal disputes and provide job stability for the staff.
One-Time Settlement (OTS) Scheme and Tax Amendments Approved
To streamline tax compliance, the Cabinet approved amendments to the Punjab State Development Tax Act, 2018, including a new provision allowing taxpayers to opt for a one-time lump sum payment of ₹2,200 per year instead of monthly payments of ₹200. The Act will also include a One-Time Settlement mechanism to handle tax liabilities in cases of death, liquidation, or company restructuring, thereby enhancing ease of doing business and tax collection efficiency.
Green Light for Two New Private Universities in Punjab
The Cabinet has approved the establishment of two new private self-financed universities under the Punjab Private Universities Policy, 2010. These include:
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CGC University, Mohali at Jhanjeri, SAS Nagar
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Rayat Bahara Professional University, Hoshiarpur
These institutions aim to provide quality higher education and contribute to the educational and economic development of their respective regions.