Punjab Governor urges youth to learn from Sahibzadas’ sacrifice, ensure contribution to building developed country

The state-level Veer Bal Diwas 2025 was observed on Friday by the Child Welfare Council Punjab and District Child Welfare Council in collaboration with the district administration, to pay tributes to the supreme sacrifice of the four Sahibzadas — Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh — the sons of Guru Gobind Singh.

Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, who presided over the event as the chief guest at BCM Arya Model Senior Secondary School, called upon the youth to learn form the unparalleled courage, unwavering faith and spirit of sacrifice displayed by the Sahibzadas. He described their martyrdom as the greatest sacrifice in the world history and said the ultimate tribute to them would be for today’s generation to adopt their values.

He added that the immortal saga of the Sahibzadas was written in golden letters in history.

“Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh chose to be bricked alive rather than give up their faith. Their sacrifice continues to inspire the generations to make the ultimate sacrifice, whenever required, for the nation, religion and society,” the Governor stated. He also highlighted the martyrdom of the Ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, and his devoted disciples Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das and Bhai Dayala, stating that their supreme sacrifice delivered an eternal message of truth, justice and righteousness to humanity. Appealing to the youth, Kataria stated that Punjab and India could reach new heights of development only when the younger generation stepped forward with determination. He urged them to contribute wholeheartedly to nation-building. He also asked them to support the war against the drugs.

During the programme, the Governor felicitated 30 winners of a painting competition. Later, the students who excelled in skits, shabad gayan, declamation and poster-making contests were also honoured. He also launched the official website of the Ludhiana District Red Cross Society. Chairperson of the Punjab Child Welfare Council, Prajakta Nilkanth Avhad, highlighted the council’s initiatives, including a newly-launched programme addressing mental health issues among students. She urged parents not to pressurise children for academic ranks and to protect their childhood.

Assistant Commissioner (UT) Dr Pragati Verma spoke about the various welfare schemes run by the district administration, including children’s homes, schools for deaf and mute vhildren, early intervention centres and the SPICE Café.