Punjab releases additional water to Rajasthan for military needs

IANS May 11, 2025 203 views

Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to national security by releasing additional water to Rajasthan's military deployments. His decision underscores Punjab's historic role as India's "sword arm" and strategic border state. Mann emphasized that Punjab stands ready to support national interests, whether through resources or potential sacrifices. The move comes after an all-party meeting and reflects the state's ongoing dedication to protecting India's territorial integrity.

"Punjab can never drag its feet back when the issue of country is involved" - Bhagwant Mann
Chandigarh, May 11: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has ordered release of additional water to Rajasthan for catering needs of the military in the state.

Key Points

1

Punjab supports military water needs without hesitation

2

CM Mann emphasizes national interest over state politics

3

Border regions require special attention and support

4

State ready to contribute beyond water resources

In a statement late Saturday, the Chief Minister said the Rajasthan government had sought more water from the quota of Punjab as the military deployed at the Rajasthan border needed additional water.

He categorically said "whenever the national interests are concerned Punjab never takes a backseat".

Mann was quoted as saying the water has been released to secure the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country.

Chief Minister Mann said "not only water but Punjab can also shed its blood for the sake of national interests".

He added that "it is a fact of matter that Punjab can never drag its feet back when the issue of country is involved".

CM Mann said keeping in view the needs of soldiers of the country he has immediately ordered to release the additional water to Rajasthan.

The announcement to release the water comes after the all-party meeting called by state Governor Gulab Chand Kataria.

At the meeting, the Chief Minister pleaded the case of the state for a special package as it always faced the brunt of war from across the border.

"Whether it is war or any other exigency, Punjab and Punjabis are always at the forefront."

The Chief Minister said that Punjab always faces the first brunt during every war and escalations, adding the state needs special treatment for its enormous contribution.

CM Mann called upon all the parties, comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party, to make concerted efforts for this noble cause so that Punjab can be a frontrunner state in the country, adding that the state government will raise this issue with the Union government.

The Chief Minister said that besides being the food bowl of the country, Punjab has always been its sword arm, but its contribution has been ignored.

"It is high time that all the political parties should sink their differences and seek a special package for the state by rising above the party lines," he added.

He said that the package should be given on the lines of one given to Jammu and Kashmir and other states of the country.

He added that the state will also raise the demand for border area allowance for doctors, teachers, anganwadi and other workers posted in border districts with the Central government.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister will be visiting the border areas of the state from Sunday to assess the ground-level situation.

He said that Punjab, especially the border regions, has suffered a lot due to the mounting tension between the two countries.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is a great gesture by Punjab CM! Our soldiers at the border deserve every resource they need to protect our nation. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 But I hope Rajasthan also remembers Punjab's contribution when water disputes arise in future.
P
Priya M.
While I support helping our military, I'm concerned about Punjab's own water crisis. Farmers are already struggling. The central government should compensate Punjab adequately for this sacrifice.
A
Amit S.
Punjab has always been the shield of India! From wars to farmer protests, they bear the maximum burden. The demand for special package is justified. Other states must recognize their sacrifices.
S
Sunita R.
Good decision, but why only now? Military needs should be prioritized always, not just during tensions. Also, border area allowance is long overdue - these workers serve in difficult conditions.
V
Vikram J.
The language used by CM Mann seems more political than necessary. National security shouldn't be used for scoring points. Just release the water quietly if it's for soldiers! 🤨
N
Neha P.
As someone from Rajasthan, we're grateful to Punjab for this support. But let's not forget - when Punjab needed help during farmer protests, Rajasthan stood with them too. This is how federalism should work!
H
Harpreet D.
Punjab's contribution to national security is unmatched! But I wish the CM had also talked about water conservation measures. Our rivers are drying up - we need long-term solutions along with immediate actions.

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Tags:
Punjab Bhagwant Mann Military Water Supply Border Security Rajasthan National Interest