Calls for united fight against drug menace, encourages public participation in Punjab’s development
Remembers great martyrs, freedom fighters for their contributions to freedom struggle
Ludhiana, January 26: Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Sunday emphasised the critical need to balance development with environmental preservation to ensure a sustainable and healthy environment for future generations.
Presiding over the state-level Republic Day function in Ludhiana, the Governor highlighted that while the world is deliberating on addressing global warming, it also requires energy for development. He pointed out that significant efforts are being made, both nationally and particularly in Punjab, to combat air pollution, water pollution, and solid waste. He urged individuals to actively contribute to saving the planet and stressed the importance of making the rejuvenation of the Buddha Dariya a collective movement.
Addressing the issue of drug abuse, the Governor noted that the state government is making sincere efforts to achieve a “Nasha Mukt Punjab” (drug-free Punjab). He mentioned the establishment of a Support Services Unit at the headquarters of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force. This specialized unit focuses on analyzing drug-related data, communications, financial transactions, and trafficking profiles, thereby significantly enhancing the force’s capacity to combat the drug problem effectively. Additionally, he highlighted the formation of over 1,500 village defense committees in six districts bordering Pakistan to strengthen border security and curb the smuggling of drugs and arms.
The Governor paid tribute to the brave martyrs and freedom fighters whose sacrifices paved the way for India’s independence. He underscored the importance of collective responsibility in promoting integrity and transparency in governance, urging citizens to actively support government initiatives aimed at creating a corruption-free administration. He also encouraged citizens to participate in nation-building activities.
Remembering martyrs, freedom fighters, and patriots, the Governor acknowledged the immense contributions of Baba Saheb Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar in drafting and implementing the Indian Constitution. He highlighted the pivotal roles played by leaders such as Dr. Ambedkar, Subhash Chandra Bose, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and countless others in liberating the country from British rule. He also noted the sacrifices of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Kartar Singh Sarabha, Madan Lal Dhingra, and numerous other youth, describing their patriotism and nationalism as a source of inspiration for younger generations.
Commending Punjab’s contributions to the freedom struggle, Kataria praised the state’s extraordinary spirit of valor. He described Punjab as a land rich in patriotic movements, with a legacy of bravery rooted in the sacrifices of the Sikh Gurus. He also recalled the role of Punjab’s farmers in the Green Revolution, which made the country self-reliant in food security.
After inspecting the parade, the Governor took the salute from the march past led by Parade Commander IPS Officer Akarshi Jain and Second Parade Commander PPS Officer Guriqbal Singh. Students from various schools presented choreographed performances based on patriotic and cultural songs, while Army jawans showcased Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art.
The Governor honored 105 individuals for their outstanding contributions in various fields. He also distributed sewing machines and tricycles to those in need and recognized freedom fighters and their family members during the event.
Prominent attendees at the state-level function included MLAs Rajinderpal Kaur Chhina, Daljit Singh Bhola Grewal, and Kulwant Singh Sidhu; Chief Secretary KAP Sinha; DGP Gaurav Yadav; Mayor Principal Inderjeet Kaur; Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal; Commissioner of Police Kuldeep Singh Chahal; and Punjab Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, among others.
Follow Us:
