Mohali belt to become financial hub, promises Sukhbir Badal, claims AAP-Congress joining hands for 2027
Babushahi Bureau
Dera Bassi (Punjab), March 29, 2026: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal on Sunday unveiled an ambitious vision to transform the Mohali–Zirakpur–Dera Bassi–New Chandigarh–Kharar belt into the country’s next major financial and IT hub, while launching a sharp political attack on rivals ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
Addressing a large rally in Dera Bassi despite rain disruptions, Badal said the region would be developed on the lines of Mumbai and Gurugram, with plans for an IT hub, tourism projects, industrial development, metro connectivity, and upgraded infrastructure.
He said the project would be completed within five years, leading to the emergence of a new metropolitan city near Chandigarh.
Targeting the ruling Aam Aadmi Party and the Indian National Congress, Badal alleged that both parties had “teamed up” during Block Samiti elections and would likely contest the 2027 Assembly polls in alliance. He claimed such cooperation was aimed at keeping SAD out of power.
He also accused AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal of misleading people by suggesting that welfare schemes would be discontinued if AAP loses power in Punjab.
“All major welfare schemes were initiated during SAD’s tenure,” Badal asserted, alleging that the current government has either curtailed or diluted benefits.
Outlining his party’s promises, Badal said SAD would provide tubewell connections to all farmers, ensure 12 hours of daytime power supply, and establish a World Skill University to train one lakh youth annually. He also announced interest-free loans up to ₹10 lakh for youth, free education up to graduation, enhanced pensions, and expanded welfare schemes.
The SAD leader further assured that local demands, including a hospital in Zirakpur, a girls’ college in Lalru, and improved drinking water supply, would be addressed if the party returns to power.