Driving Naari Programme launched in Chandigarh
- State govt. to complie directory showcasting achievements of eminent Punjabi in varied fields
- Calls upon intellectuals, writers and experts to undertake field visit once in a week to spread education in rural areas
- Launches Punjabi Pedia
- Release English version of Mahan Kosh
- Lauds Punjabi university for organizing all india Punjabi conference
- Announces a grant of Rs 1 Lakh for legendary Punjabi folk singer IDU Sharif
Patiala, Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to create a dedicated fund for the welfare of the litterateurs, dramatists, folk singers, artistes and other personalities from the fields of language, art and culture, who immensely contributed to keep the flame of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat ever high in the society.
Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the seventh All India Punjabi Conference here at Punjabi University, the Chief Minister said that he was deeply anguished to see the several families of these iconic figures, who left indelible mark on the canvas of rich heritage of Punjabi art and culture, were now leading a life in penury and extreme difficult circumstances. Mr. Badal said that he would ensure that the progeny of these noted stars of yester years could lead a life with honor and dignity adding that it was the bounden duty of the state government not only to preserve the cultural heritage but also to safeguard the interests of the next of their kin.
Highly appreciating the indomitable spirit of Punjabis, the Chief Minister said that they have ever established their identity wherever they have settled across the globe. He mentioned that this intrinsic spirit of Punjabiat was responsible for the all pervasive ‘chardi kala’ (high spirits) for peace, communal harmony and brotherhood. In a lighter vein, Mr. Badal asked the Vice Chancellor to get this unique character of Punjabis thoroughly researched by the scholars to ascertain why it was so.
In the same breath, the Chief Minister emphasized the need to document the achievements of eminent Punjabis in varied fields not only in the country but across the world by publishing a directory so that they could also be felicitated at such forums. He said this initiative would not only help in honoring these sons of the soil for their rare feat but also motivate the millions of others to follow their footsteps.
Exhorting the intellectuals, writers and experts of other fields working in all the universities of the state to come forward and play a proactive role in ensuring the all round development of the state, the Chief Minister impressed upon them to must undertake field visits once in a week to take stock of the ground realities and help the underprivileged sections of society especially in rural areas to sensitize them about the significance of education and skill training. Mr Badal said that there was no dearth of capability and skill in the rural areas but the need of the hour was to show them the right path.
The Chief Minister further said that quality education was the key element for ensuring the all round development of the state due to which their government has been laying thrust on providing quality education to the students of Punjab. He said that during these years they had opened several New Universities along with new colleges to impart quality education to the students. Mr Badal further said that as a result of these concerted efforts made by them Punjab was leading the country in the field of education.
Highlighting the importance of cultural and historical heritage in personality development of the youth, the Chief Minister said that the state government would be soon constructing a state of art of ‘Jang-e-Azaadi’ memorial at Kartarpur near Jalandhar at a cost of Rs 200 crore to showcase the role of Punjabis in country’s freedom struggle. He said that their government was fully aware of need of perpetuating the rich legacy of state by building such historical memorials due to which they have erected Virasat-E-Khalsa at Sri Anandpur Sahib, Chhota Ghallughara Shaheedi Memorial at Kahnuwan, Memorial of Wadda Ghallughara at Kup Rahiran and Fateh Burj at Chhapar Chiri to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of the legendry Sikh warrior Baba Banda Singh Bahadur.
Lauding the role played by Punjabi University in development and promotion of Punjabi language, literature and culture, the Chief Minister said that with the beginning of the All India Punjabi Conferences the Punjabis residing in various states across the country have come closer by sharing the same platform. He also appreciated the tradition of University to honor the eminent Punjabis from various fields.
Earlier welcoming the Chief Minister, Vice Chancellor Dr. Jaspal Singh appreciated the vision of Mr. Badal, who has played a vanguard role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of Punjab. He said only those nations survive who respect their art, culture and heritage and others who tend to forget them were bound to be vanished.
On the occasion the Chief Minister honored the eminent personalities for outstanding contribution in art, culture and Punjabi literature. He also dedicated ‘Punjabi Pedia’ to the nation. Likewise, Mr. Badal also released the English version of Mahan Kosh, authored by legendary Bhai Kahan Singh Nabha besides a souvenir to mark the occasion.
The Chief Minister also announced Rs 1 lakh grant to renowned Punjabi folk singer Mr. Idu Sharif.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included former MP Mr. Tarlochan Singh and Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Dr. S Karunaraju.
