Sukhbir was here along with cabinet minister Manoranjan Kalia to lay foundation stones and inauguration of as many as 23 projects, including that of roads and power grids.

Responding to a query during a press conference here, Sukhbir reiterated that the government was committed to fight a "political battle" to seek Chandigarh for Punjab.

Sukhbir parried queries on the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission giving a deadline to the Punjab government for clearing arrears against the power subsidies in a time-bound manner. "This is something to be decided by the government. The cabinet will take a decision on this," he said. About PSERC turning down the request, Manoranjan Kalia said the BJP was committed to what it had promised. About the talks of Sukhbir's wife being considered for Bathinda parliamentary seat, Sukhbir smilingly, said, "These are just talks and the candidate will be unanimously decided."

The SAD president also announced opening of a hotel management school in the area.

Sukhbir moved in a high-security cover with two Mitsubishi Pajeros in the convoy bearing the same registration number. Sukhbir, leaders accompanying him and Bathinda administration remained on their toes throughout the day in connection with the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony of different projects.