In a major bonanza for people living in both rural and urban areas, Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh approved Rs 658 crore under the Punjab Nirman Programme (PNP), besides approving Rs 22.50 crore for sports kits, Rs 30 crore for open gyms, and Rs 7.50 crore for Mahila Mandals.

Notably, the State Cabinet had earlier given the nod to amend the guidelines of PNP for efficacious utilisation of funds.

PNP funds would be utilized to ensure local area development in the State according to the felt needs of people, thus ensuring seamless implementation of various programmes through Government Bodies, PRIs or ULBs, or as may be deemed by the Deputy Commissioner in line with guidelines of the respective departments.