Punjab, once known as the pride of India, is facing a slow but undeniable decline, both politically and geographically. Historically vibrant and influential, Punjab was a major contributor to India’s agricultural success, national defense, and cultural richness. But over the years, its territory has been reduced, its political voice has been weakened, and its strategic autonomy has been increasingly compromised. This decline hasn’t happened overnight — it’s the result of a long chain of historical decisions, central policies, and local political missteps that continue to shape Punjab’s shrinking presence.
Geographically, Punjab has suffered one of the most drastic transformations of any Indian state. Before the Partition in 1947, Punjab was a vast province extending across what is now both India and Pakistan. The division of British Punjab resulted in the loss of major cities like Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi to Pakistan. The eastern part that remained in India, though smaller, still had a significant influence. However, further losses came in 1966 when Punjab was split again on linguistic lines. Haryana was carved out for Hindi-speaking populations, while the hilly areas were merged into Himachal Pradesh. This left Punjab significantly smaller in size, population, and political power.
Adding to this territorial fragmentation was the status of Chandigarh. Built as a new capital after losing Lahore, it was supposed to belong to Punjab. However, it was turned into a Union Territory and made the shared capital of both Punjab and Haryana. Despite Punjab’s repeated demands for full control over Chandigarh, the central government has maintained its UT status. Recent moves, such as imposing central service rules in the city, have further deepened Punjab’s frustration over what many see as a denial of its rightful claim.
Punjab’s problems aren’t limited to borders. Control over its natural resources — especially water — has also been compromised. The state, despite having three major rivers (Sutlej, Beas, Ravi), has been forced to share water with Haryana and Rajasthan. The controversial Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal remains a major flashpoint. While Punjab claims it has no surplus water left, the central government continues to push for the canal’s completion. The situation highlights how the state’s authority over its rivers has been repeatedly undermined.
Politically, Punjab’s influence has steadily declined at the national level. With only 13 Lok Sabha seats, it has little impact on national elections compared to states like Uttar Pradesh or Maharashtra. Once a power center during coalition-era politics, Punjab now rarely produces leaders who hold key portfolios in the Union Cabinet. The days of influential Punjabi figures like Giani Zail Singh and Prakash Singh Badal seem like a bygone era. Today, Punjab’s political voice is quieter, its leaders often absent from key national conversations.
Internally, political instability has weakened the state’s governance. Frequent changes in leadership, infighting within parties, and a lack of vision have stalled development. The traditional dominance of the Shiromani Akali Dal has been broken, but no other party — including Congress or the Aam Aadmi Party — has managed to bring consistent, forward-looking governance. As a result, major reforms in agriculture, industry, and employment have been delayed or ignored altogether.
A more recent and alarming development is the expansion of the Border Security Force’s (BSF) jurisdiction in Punjab. In 2021, the central government extended BSF’s operational range from 15 km to 50 km inside the state from the international border. This means that in nearly half of several border districts, the Punjab Police no longer has full control over law and order. Critics argue that this move undermines federalism and weakens the state government’s authority. Supporters claim it’s necessary for national security. But either way, it signals a reduction in Punjab’s administrative autonomy.
Punjab is also experiencing a form of cultural and educational marginalization. The Punjabi language is gradually being sidelined, especially in urban areas and schools. In Chandigarh, central authorities have prioritized Hindi and English over Punjabi in government signage and education. The younger generation, increasingly influenced by migration and Western culture, is losing touch with local traditions and language. This cultural drift adds another layer to the state’s shrinking identity.
Furthermore, the centralization of decision-making in Delhi has made matters worse. In recent years, policies like the now-repealed farm laws were introduced without consulting state governments. These laws sparked massive protests in Punjab, exposing the lack of respect for the federal structure. Many in Punjab now feel that their voices are not just being ignored — they’re being silenced.
Punjab, which once led in agriculture, military service, industry, and political activism, now finds itself fighting to retain relevance. It’s facing shrinking geography, shrinking resources, shrinking power, and a shrinking voice. Yet, despite all of this, the people of Punjab remain resilient. The state still has the potential to rise — through unity, vision, and leadership that puts Punjab’s interests above party politics.
To reclaim its rightful place in India’s future, Punjab must address its internal weaknesses while demanding a fair role within the Union. The land of heroes and revolutionaries deserves more than just survival — it deserves revival.