‘Need to follow Puran Singh’s ideas on environment’

Neha Saini

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Tribune news service

Amritsar, June 4

He talked about creating awareness about combating environment pollution and erosion of natural resources, which have now become the biggest challenge for civilisation. He talked about such ideas when these were not even thought upon.

Bhagat Puran Singh, popularly also called as bearded Mother Teresa, had probably foresighted the brazen exploitation of natural resources and its consequences. The reason, he propagated a lifestyle in harmony with nature and advocated the green revolution.

Dr Inderjit Kaur, his adopted daughter and director, All India Pingalwara Charitable Society, is reminding the masses of his message on his 114 birth anniversary.

“The topic of environment was very dear to him. He believed in simple living and it is today’s requirement. We should go back to the basics,” said Dr Inderjit Kaur.

“His ideas like eating in utensils made of bronze, not destroying environment but learning to co-exist, decreasing individual waste count and using natural made things. We have been promoting his ideas among the young generation by holding workshops and seminars. It is more about having the right intent and working to implement as well,” she said.

A big believer of sewa (service), Bhagat Puran Singh served the poor and down trodden. He cleaned streets, nurtured the sick and adopted an eco-friendly lifestyle. “His service towards the environment was what we also need to adopt. Using a bicycle as means of transport and saving water through waste water management, all his ideas were simple and scientific in nature,” said Dr Inderjit.

Working on his principles, Pingalwara’s Bhagat Puran Singh Farm, spread over 32 acres at Dhirakot near Jandiala, practices zero wastage and has a water treatment plant and dairy farm. It has taken the lead in natural farming techniques and produces the best sugarcane without using pesticides.

Rajbir Singh, a trustee and manager of the farm, who works with skilled workers, said, “We save 60 per cent water through scientific methods. We sow vegetables, fruits and other crops, thereby increasing soil fertility without poisoning it.”

The farm has also become a training ground for farmers from the region who learn natural farming techniques.

In the wake of the recent Beas spill controversy, Dr Inderjit said people need to take a note of the blatant disregard for the ecological existence. “We are now planning to set up an advisory committee to ensure that Bhagatji’s ideas on environment are spread through voluntary service. The young generation should connect with his ideology and work towards preserving the environment through bringing small changes, one at a time,” she added.