Amritsar residents revive call for cultural societies

Residents of Amritsar have urged the district administration to establish heritage and cultural societies, highlighting a Punjab Government notification mandating the formation of such societies.

The move is aimed at inculcating values among the younger generation, and making them aware about the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The demand stems from a government memo (No 12/88/2004-3YS/15144, dated June 3, 2008), in which the government had directed districts to set up such institutions.

Locals pointed out that Amritsar was yet to see meaningful progress, despite repeated appeals over the years.

In a recent memorandum submitted to Deputy Commissioner Dalwinderjit Singh, social activist PS Bhatty, president of Pollution Control Committee, highlighted the missed opportunity.

He noted that similar societies in Gurdaspur district had shown encouraging results, gaining appreciation for engaging the youth in constructive and culturally enriching activities.

Amritsar, often regarded as the cultural and spiritual heart of Punjab, stood to benefit immensely from such initiatives, he added.

He said structured platforms focused on heritage, arts and community values could help counter the growing influence of digital distractions among children.

“Today’s youth is increasingly drawn towards mobile phones and unproductive online content,” the memorandum said, stressing the need to redirect youngsters’ energy towards meaningful pursuits.

Cultural societies, it suggested, could play a pivotal role in reconnecting young minds with their roots while promoting respect for education and tradition.

Underlining the importance of early engagement, Bhatty proposed a community-driven model in which responsible elders mentor small groups of children, guiding them towards positive values and social responsibility. The appeal is as much about cultural preservation as it is about social intervention.

With concerns mounting over generational disconnect and shifting value systems, residents see the 2008 notification not as an outdated directive but as a timely framework that can still be implemented effectively.