No funds crunch to delay freedom memorial: Punjab CM

Unmindful of the severe funds crunch being faced by the state, the Punjab government on Tuesday said it will not allow lack of funds to delay the 'Jang-e-Azadi' project.

The project, likely to cost over Rs.200 crore, is related to a memorial being built to highlight Punjab's contribution in the freedom struggle. It is being built near Kartarpur town, near Jalandhar, 165 km from here.

Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal on Tuesday said the project should be completed within 18 months so that it could be dedicated to the nation next year.

Chairing a meeting of 'Jang-e-Azadi' foundation here, Badal said there was no dearth of funds for this 'dream project'.

He said the memorial is aimed at showcasing the valuable contribution of Punjabis in the national freedom struggle.

"This project is of immense importance, so we must pull all the stops to ensure that it is completed as soon as possible," Badal told foundation members and officers.

He said it was important to highlight the role of martyrs of the freedom struggle so that the new generations understand nationalism and patriotism better.