Punjab Government Celebrates Ambedkar Jayanti with Major SC Welfare Initiatives and Tributes
- Punjab Government Celebrates Ambedkar Jayanti with Major SC Welfare Initiatives and Tributes
- Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Sond Pays Floral Tribute, Highlights Landmark Reforms Inspired by Dr. Ambedkar’s Vision
Fatehgarh Sahib, April 14: On the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and a lifelong crusader for social justice and equality, the Punjab government held a solemn and inspiring ceremony at Fatehgarh Sahib. Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond led the celebrations by offering floral tributes at Dr. Ambedkar’s statue at the District Administrative Complex, followed by a seminar jointly organized by the District Administration and Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Advocate Lakhbir Singh Rai, MLA from Fatehgarh Sahib, and Rupinder Singh Happy, MLA from Bassi Pathana. Students, faculty, and community leaders gathered to commemorate the legacy of a man who championed education, dignity, and equal rights.
Realizing Ambedkar’s Dream: Key Highlights from Minister Sond’s Address
During his keynote address, Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond reaffirmed the commitment of the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government to Dr. Ambedkar’s vision. He emphasized:
- The unprecedented inclusion of six Scheduled Caste (SC) ministers in the state cabinet.
- The first-ever reservation in the Advocate General’s office, ensuring fair representation.
- The transparent and timely disbursal of the SC Post Matric Scholarship Scheme, benefiting thousands of deserving students across Punjab.
“The Constitution framed by Baba Sahib Ambedkar is the foundation of Indian democracy. Our government is following his path to ensure social equality and educational empowerment,” said Sond.
Portraits of Ambedkar and Bhagat Singh in All Government Offices
As a mark of respect and to keep the flame of social justice alive for future generations, the Punjab government has mandated the installation of portraits of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in every government office across the state.
This symbolic yet powerful gesture aims to inspire public servants and citizens alike by showcasing the values of freedom, education, justice, and self-respect that both national heroes stood for.
Empowering Education: Infrastructure Upgrades and Scholarships
Minister Sond proudly highlighted how over 15,000 students have moved from private to government schools due to enhanced academic quality and upgraded infrastructure. Additionally:
- Thousands of students are benefiting from the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC students.
- Eligible applicants under the Ashirwad Scheme are receiving timely financial support for marriage assistance.
During the seminar, students who have availed of the Post Matric Scholarship shared emotional testimonies, citing how the support helped them continue their education without economic hardship.
Seminar Highlights and Honoring Community Contributors
The event included speeches by MLAs Lakhbir Singh Rai and Rupinder Singh Happy, who celebrated Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions to democracy, education, and women’s rights. They also praised the government for upholding his ideals through targeted schemes and inclusive governance.
The seminar concluded with:
- Distribution of Ashirwad Scheme sanction letters to beneficiaries.
- Release of a special booklet by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, showcasing ongoing SC welfare initiatives.
- Felicitation of Minister Sond by university authorities and the district administration.
Attendees and Dignitaries
Prominent attendees included:
- Ajay Singh Libra, Chairman, District Planning Committee
- SSP Shubham Aggarwal
- Dr. Sona Thind, Deputy Commissioner
- Dr. Pritpal Singh, Vice Chancellor, SGGSWU
- Senior government officers and local community leaders
- Faculty members and hundreds of students