The Punjab government is set to distribute around 4 lakh school bags to Class XI and XII students featuring the image of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann along with the Sikhya Kranti logo. The bags, designed in yellow and blue colours associated with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), have been prepared and printed by the Punjab School Education Board. The move has drawn attention as it comes shortly after a controversy over government-distributed textbook carry bags carrying the Chief Minister’s image.
According to officials, the school bags reached various districts on Monday, and distribution began from Tuesday. Instructions issued to schools stated that the bags are meant specifically for students studying in Classes XI and XII. The bags feature a picture of CM Mann wearing a yellow turban along with branding related to the state government’s education initiatives.
The latest development follows criticism faced by the Punjab government two months ago after free textbooks were distributed in carry bags displaying a sketch of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Opposition parties had questioned the use of government resources for promoting an individual leader, leading to political debate over the issue.
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The newly distributed bags have once again brought focus to the use of government schemes and educational materials for public messaging. While supporters of the initiative may view the branding as part of highlighting education reforms, critics have raised concerns over the presence of political imagery on items meant for students.
The Punjab government has been promoting its education-related programmes under the banner of Sikhya Kranti, which translates to an education revolution. The initiative is aimed at showcasing improvements in the state’s school education system, including infrastructure development and policy measures. The distribution of the school bags is expected to continue across government schools in Punjab in the coming days. The decision is likely to remain a subject of political discussion, with debates continuing over whether government-funded educational materials should carry images of elected representatives.
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