The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has taken a significant step to support sugarcane farmers by approving a direct subsidy of ₹68.50 per quintal over the existing State Agreed Price (SAP) for the 2025–26 crushing season. This decision positions Punjab as the state offering the highest compensation for sugarcane growers in India and aims to increase agricultural income, ensure fair remuneration, and strengthen farmer welfare.
Direct Subsidy for Sugarcane Farmers
In a major relief decision, the Punjab Cabinet has authorized a direct subsidy of ₹68.50 per quintal to be paid to sugarcane growers on behalf of private sugar mills for the ongoing 2025–26 crushing season. This payment will be in addition to the State Agreed Price of ₹416 per quintal, which already stands as the highest sugarcane price available in the country.
This subsidy is designed to reduce financial stress on farmers, ensure they receive timely payments, and encourage greater sugarcane cultivation across the state. The Punjab government’s focus on direct subsidy payment reflects its commitment to enhance rural incomes and strengthen the agricultural economy.
Health and Wellness Initiatives
The Cabinet also approved expansion measures in public health and fitness. Under the ‘CM di Yogshala’ initiative, 1,000 additional yoga trainer posts will be created with a budget allocation of ₹35 crore for the 2026–27 financial year. This move is part of the government’s efforts to promote healthy living among citizens.
Strengthening Healthcare Services
Another key decision approved by the Cabinet involves the transfer of several community health centers to Baba Farid University of Health Sciences (BFUHS). These include civil hospitals in Badal and Khadur Sahib, and community health centers in Jalalabad and Fazilka. This initiative is expected to provide better infrastructure, specialized care, and improved health services to residents in these areas.
Urban Development and Land Policy Reforms
Urban governance reforms were also highlighted during the meeting. The Cabinet sanctioned new guidelines under the Punjab Management and Transfer of Municipal Act, 2020 to streamline the transfer of government land for public and development purposes. Policies for utilising abandoned pathways (rastas) and watercourses (khals) within licensed projects were also approved to promote smarter urban planning.
PAPRA Project Timeline Extension
To support real estate and infrastructure growth, the Cabinet extended the completion deadline for Punjab Affordable Property Registration Act (PAPRA)-licensed projects to 31 December 2026. This allows developers and authorities more flexibility in project execution under the same terms previously defined.
Changes to Auction and Service Rules
The Cabinet approved adjustments to the floor area ratio (FAR) charges for properties planned for auction starting January 2026, enhancing transparency and effectiveness in urban land auctions. Additionally, Rule 6A was added to the Punjab Civil Service Rules to bring clearer service conditions and better definition of employee rights.
