In 1988, the state government, driven by the exigencies of terrorism, designated Batala as a police district in the process separating it from Gurdaspur. In the last few years, there have been claims from various quarters to upgrade the industrial town’s status. However, on all occasions the demand fizzled out following the lack of political will.

Demographic status: At present, the city is the eighth largest in the state in terms of population after Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Patiala, Bathinda, Mohali and Hoshiarpur.

Economic significance: The town has earned the epithet of “steel city of Punjab” because of the presence of industrial units.

Historical significance: The first Sikh Guru got married to Mata Sulakhni in the city in 1485.

Speculation is rife that the state government may grant district status to Batala in the run-up to the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev.