Chandigarh, March 27 -- The Punjab budget outlines a transformative plan for the state's rural areas, with a strong emphasis on infrastructure, irrigation, and community welfare.

Finance minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced an allocation of Rs.3,500 crore for the development of Punjab's villages, aiming to address key needs and improve living conditions. This investment will fund several crucial projects, including the rejuvenation of village ponds, implementation of sewage treatment systems modelled after environmentalist and Rajya Sabha member Balbir Singh Seechewal, and the construction of 18,944 km of rural link roads, with Rs.2,873 crore earmarked for road development.

Additionally, the budget includes the restoration of "nehr kh...