Punjab has received 22nd place in SKOCH State of Governance Report 2024. The performance, although lacking in terms of previous years, is still reflective of the consistency that Punjab has shown in recent years.
The state has showcased its steady commitment to administrative excellence. The constant league that Punjab has maintained in last few years is indicative of good governance. The state also made a strong comeback in Rural Development, ranking 6th nationally. For a state like Punjab which is predominantly agrarian, it can be equivalent to strengthening its economic and social core for future growth and development.
A standout achievement is Punjab’s #1 national ranking in the Labour category, a notable feat for a first-time participant in this sector. Additionally, it performed well across four categories, highlighting areas where governance efforts have been effectively scaled or restructured.
Punjab showed enhanced focus in District Governance with commendable advances in Labour and Rural Development sectors. To sustain and accelerate this momentum, Punjab should leverage its strong foundation in labour and rural initiatives by diversifying high-impact governance efforts across health, education and infrastructure.
The Women Empowerment and Socio-economic Growth by Sericulture initiative, launched by Punjab’s Department of Horticulture on 1 April 2012, aims to uplift small and marginalised farmers, particularly women, by strengthening the silk value chain. Implemented under the Silk Samagra Scheme, it primarily focuses on Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Roopnagar and is expanding to Amritsar.
Initially limited to Mulberry silk, Punjab diversified its production by introducing Eri silk three years ago and Tussar silk in 2023.
The initiative addresses key challenges such as climatic vulnerabilities, technical manpower shortages and scattered farms hampering disinfectant application. Solutions included financial assistance for mulberry plantations, provision of silkworm rearing houses, technical support and on-site farmer training.
A notable achievement is that 60-70% of the 2,000 beneficiaries are women, with the majority engaged in home-based sericulture activities.
State's Performance in Different Sectors in Three Years
| Sector | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labour | 1 | ||
| Horticulture | 4 | 1 | |
| Rural Development | 6 | ||
| District Administration | 10 | 7 | 18 |
