Punjab Government to Reach Out Directly to Traders, CM Mann and Kejriwal Announce Major Initiative

Chandigarh, January 9, 2026: In a bold move aimed at supporting small traders and shopkeepers, the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, announced that officials will now reach out directly to businesses across the state, eliminating the need for traders to navigate bureaucratic offices. The announcement was made jointly by CM Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal.

Speaking at the first meeting of the Punjab State Traders Commission in SAS Nagar, Kejriwal emphasized that no country can progress unless the interests of small shopkeepers and traders are safeguarded and business processes simplified. He described the initiative as the beginning of a “new era of trade reforms” in Punjab.

Direct Outreach to Markets
Under this initiative, administrative officials will visit markets and engage directly with shopkeepers to resolve both individual and systemic issues, ranging from broken infrastructure, inadequate sanitation, drinking water availability, and law-and-order concerns, to broader policy-level challenges. Kejriwal stated that 90% of problems can be addressed immediately at the local level. Policy-level concerns will be escalated with recommendations to the state government, ensuring practical implementation of solutions.

CM Mann Stresses the Role of Shopkeepers in the Economy
CM Bhagwant Mann reinforced the importance of shopkeepers as “true patriots” driving the state’s economy. He assured that the commission will safeguard the interests and dignity of traders throughout Punjab. Mann highlighted the government’s past achievements, including providing jobs to over 61,000 youth based on merit, and converting vacant offices at 17 closed toll plazas into “Common Man Clinics” to enhance public convenience.

Kejriwal: Supporting Small Traders is National Progress
Kejriwal drew on his personal experience growing up in a trading family to underline the challenges faced by small business owners. He said that previous governments viewed traders with suspicion, treating them as potential wrongdoers, but the AAP government recognizes their vital contribution to employment, local economies, and social initiatives. He emphasized that protecting the smallest shopkeeper is essential for overall national progress.

Structured Committees at Multiple Levels
The commission will operate at state, district, and constituency levels, involving local police, administration, and trader representatives. The goal is to make the government more accessible to businesses, resolving both individual grievances and broader market-level challenges. Kejriwal expressed hope that within the first three months, all major and minor markets in Punjab will have undergone this round of meetings, with follow-up sessions scheduled as needed.

A Model for Inclusive Governance
Describing the program as unprecedented in Punjab’s political history, CM Mann noted that it reflects the government’s commitment to equitable development. Kejriwal added that the initiative aims to simplify taxation, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and protect traders from unnecessary procedural burdens, signaling a transformative approach to governance in the state.