Conference dwells on blueprint for city’s development

A conference on “Viksit Amritsar” was organised today by the Institute for Inclusive Policy and Governance (IIPG) in association with Viksit Amritsar initiative.

The national-level conference was attended by members of civil society and community leaders, who included more than 150 participants and over 25 speakers from diverse sectors. They shared their perspectives on shaping the future of Amritsar.

The primary aim of the conference was to ensure community participation in developing a vibrant Amritsar — a city envisioned with smooth transportation, efficient connectivity, cleaner neighbourhoods and restoring its heritage character.

On the occasion, speakers emphasised on the need to rebuild Amritsar’s historic identity while integrating modern and urban development. Prominent dignitaries, who addressed the consultation included Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, Laxmi Kanta Chawla, Baljinder Thakur (IIPG President), Misthi Arun (co-convenor of the event) and several other distinguished experts from the city.

Taranjit Singh Sandhu, former Ambassador of India to the USA, who was the chief guest of the event, stressed on the urgent need to stop youth migration by creating better opportunities within Amritsar. “Education with skills is more important that education with a degree. We need to train and mentor our youth towards entrepreneurship and community engagement,” he said.

Addressing participants on the occasion, Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh highlighted key concerns related to law and order, which form the foundation of a progressive and safe city. He also called to make politics and governance more transparent and accountable.

Dr Neha Tejpal, Professor, Hindu College, Amritsar, said this consultation was only the beginning of a long-term initiative and not the final step. She shared that the IIPG would compile policy recommendations and submit them to departments concerned. She also announced upcoming sector-specific consultations with national and international experts.

Baljinder Thakur, President, IIPG, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to the betterment of Punjab. He emphasised that the IIPG was consistently working to enhance community participation in shaping effective public policy for the state.

Several key speakers addressed the issue of Artificial Intelligence in agriculture, expanding city’s tourist potential, developing routes that enable more connectivity and ensuring a clean infrastructure.

“Before we talk about bigger issues, ensure that Amritsar has clean streets, smooth roads, accessible public transport and effective waste management. Only then will we be able to call it a tourist city,” said Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, who is also Amritsar North MLA.