Punjab Witnesses Dramatic Passport Decline as Mann Government Fuels Reverse Migration and Restores Lost Pride

Punjab News:  For years, going abroad was the biggest dream for Punjab’s youngsters. Standing in long queues at passport offices, applying for visas, and aiming for Canada or Australia was almost a tradition. The result was a mass exodus of talent, often called brain drain. Families proudly sent children abroad, but at the cost of Punjab losing its best minds. Today, under the Mann government, that story is changing. The state is telling its youth that their dreams can be built right here, without leaving their roots behind.

Passport Numbers Decline Sharply

The data proves this change clearly. Between January and June 2025, Punjab saw only 1,978 passport applications per day on average. In total, just 3.5 lakh passports were issued in six months. If this pace continues, the year will close at about 7.5 lakh passports, the lowest in four years. Fewer passports mean fewer migration plans, but also more Punjabis returning home from foreign countries. This decline is being seen as the sharpest in a decade.

Jobs Bring New Confidence

A major reason behind this shift is employment. The Mann government has given over 50,000 government jobs in a transparent process, free of corruption or favoritism. Young people now believe that merit is being recognized.

Alongside this, private investment is flowing into Punjab under the ‘Invest Punjab’ initiative. Companies like Polycab have opened plants, creating thousands of jobs. For the first time in years, youth feel their hard work can earn success without leaving their homeland.

NRIs Regain Lost Trust

Another big change has come in the treatment of Non-Resident Indians. Earlier governments mostly saw NRIs as donors. But today, programs like “NRI Milni” and special grievance desks have restored faith. NRIs are not only reconnecting emotionally with Punjab but are also showing interest in investing back home. This trust-building has sent a strong signal that the state is serious about involving its diaspora in development.

Youth Choosing To Stay

The impact of these changes is visible on the ground. Many youngsters who once prepared IELTS files and dreamed of Canada are now staying back. They say the availability of jobs, respect, and a better system in Punjab has made migration less attractive. Families also feel secure when children stay close rather than living thousands of miles away. Reverse migration is slowly becoming a reality.

Beyond Migration, A Movement

The Mann government calls this effort “Watan Wapsi” or return to homeland. But officials insist it is more than just stopping people from leaving. It is about restoring trust, pride, and hope among Punjabis. Working and living among one’s own community is being celebrated again. The government highlights this as a movement, not just a scheme, because it changes the mindset of an entire generation.

A New Punjab Emerging

This new story of Punjab is about opportunity and belonging. Where once youth defined success by leaving the country, today they are redefining success by staying back. With better jobs, NRI engagement, and restored pride, Punjab is rewriting its identity. The decline in passport numbers is just one indicator. The bigger story is that a new Punjab is emerging, confident, self-reliant, and ready to grow with its people together.