CHANDIGARH: Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Monday unanimously passed the historic Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur World Class University Punjab Bill, 2026, proposed by Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains. In a landmark move merging Punjab’s deep spiritual heritage with a bold futuristic vision for higher education, the Bill proposes the establishment of a cutting-edge world-class university on the sacred land of Sri Anandpur Sahib that will offer North India’s first specialised courses in defence, aerospace, cyber security and quantum computing, with the ambition of positioning the institution alongside leading global centres of learning such as MIT.
Moving the Bill in Punjab Assembly on Monday, Harjot Singh Bains highlighted the significance of Sri Anandpur Sahib and Sri Guru Teg Bahadur's sacrifice. "The holy city's land was purchased by Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji himself. This is sacred land where Dasmesh Pitah Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji gifted the world the Khalsa Panth—the fountainhead of justice. It’s a humble tribute to Sikh legacy, " he stated.
Underscoring the Bill's transformative potential, the Education Minister outlined an ambitious academic structure focused on emerging technologies and strategic studies, courses currently unavailable in any premier institute across North India. “These include BSc in Defence Technology, MSc Strategic and Defence Studies, M.Tech in Defence, Electronics and Radar Systems, M.Tech in Military Robotics and Atomic System, B.Tech in AI, M.Tech in AI, MSc in Data Sciences, B.Tech in Drone Engineering and UAV Technology, Atomic Serial System, B.Tech in Cyber Security, M.Tech in Cyber-warfare and National Security, B.Tech in Space Technologies and Satellite Engineering, B.Tech in Semi-conductor Engineering, M.Tech in Chip Design and Micro-electronics, B.Tech in Quantum Technology, M.Tech in Quantum Computing, BA & MA in Military History, LLM in Defence & Military Laws, LLB in Maritime, PG Diploma in Border Security & Counter Terrorism and Maritime courses, ” he shared.
He revealed that ₹300 crore has been proposed for investment over the next three years, with an initial allocation of ₹20 crore in the current budget. This project is a top priority of the state government and whatever funds are required will be provided. The university will be strategically established near a newly approved bypass on Kiratpur Sahib and Nangal highway, ensuring excellent connectivity. It is a 70-minute drive from the Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Mohali and just four hours from the national capital. A transit campus has been identified at a closed college and a martial academy, with officials working day and night to commence courses by July 2026.