Malerkotla- The 134th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm at Government College Malerkotla. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Cabinet Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, who attended as the chief guest.
In his address, Dr. Balbir Singh paid rich tributes to Dr. Ambedkar, emphasizing that his vision serves as a guiding light for all generations. Dr. Ambedkar's tireless efforts towards championing social equality and empowerment have left an indelible mark on Indian society.
He said that this is the first time that six Scheduled Caste ministers are part of the state Cabinet and reservation has also been implemented in the Advocate General's office. He said that now eligible Scheduled Caste students are getting scholarships without any hassle. By doing this, the AAP government of the state is fulfilling the dreams of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar ji in the true sense.
Dr. Singh highlighted the importance of inclusivity in national progress, stating that nations thrive when all sections of society are taken along. He urged the people to adopt the mantra of "Educate, Connect, and Struggle" to foster a more equitable society. This mantra, he emphasized, is particularly relevant in today's context, where social and economic disparities continue to pose significant challenges. By embracing this mantra, individuals and communities can work together to build a more just and equitable society.
Dr. Ambedkar's life is a testament to the power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity. From his early days as a marginalized individual to his later years as a champion of social justice, Dr. Ambedkar's journey is an inspiration to people from all walks of life.
The Cabinet Minister also highlighted significant steps taken by the government to uphold Dr. Ambedkar's ideals. One notable initiative is the installation of portraits of Dr. Ambedkar and Shaheed Bhagat Singh in government offices. This move symbolizes the government's commitment to the values of social justice and equality that these icons represent. Furthermore, the government has prioritized school upgrades and infrastructure development in Punjab, recognizing the critical role that education plays in empowering individuals and communities. Notably, the government has provided employment opportunities to over 52, 000 individuals, promoting growth and progress.
He said that government schemes aimed to empower students from marginalized communities, providing them with the financial support and resources they need to pursue their educational goals. By investing in education, the government is committed to building a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
In his welcome address, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Viraj S. Tidke delivered a comprehensive overview of Dr. Ambedkar's life journey, highlighting his struggles and achievements. MLAs Dr. Jamil Ur Rehman and Jaswant Singh Gajjanmajra also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of Dr. Ambedkar's legacy in contemporary society.
The ceremony also included a lecture on various government scholarship schemes, delivered by college faculty member. The chief guest distributed certificates under the Shagun Scheme and Scholarship Scheme to students.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including SSP Gagan Ajit Singh, Chairman Saqib Ali Raja, Farhal Rehman, Garry Malhotra Australia, ADC Sukhpreet Singh Sidhu, SDM Harbans Singh, Assistant Commissioner (G) Gurmeet Kumar Bansal and others.