Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab’s story has always been one of resilience, sacrifice and contribution, and Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday placed that legacy alongside the state’s continuing contribution to the nation. Releasing the three-volume, 1,980-page ‘Punjab Da Itihaas’ at Punjab Kala Bhawan, he said documenting a land that has witnessed centuries of triumphs, upheavals and transformation was a major responsibility. Mann highlighted Punjab’s extraordinary role in the freedom struggle and its continuing contribution to India’s food security, pointing out that despite rice not being the staple food of Punjabis, the state is once again set to contribute a record 180 Lakh Metric Tonnes of paddy to the national food pool this year.
Interacting with media persons after launching a book,CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab has always been a repository of art, culture and literature. Since time immemorial, this land has been the cradle of civilization and culture, and hardworking and brave Punjabis have witnessed numerous pages of history unfold here. It is our collective responsibility to preserve this glorious legacy.”
The Chief Minister pointed out, “Only those nations survive which preserve their culture, while those that ignore their glorious past gradually lose their identity. This is why the state government is making concerted efforts to preserve Punjab’s rich cultural legacy and ensure that the younger generations remain connected with their roots.”
He said, “Punjabis have inherited a glorious legacy of sacrifice and valour from the great Sikh Guru Sahiban. They taught us to fight against tyranny, oppression and injustice. This spirit has remained an integral part of the Punjabi character.”
Recalling the unparalleled sacrifices made by Punjabis during India’s freedom struggle, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the contribution of Punjab and its people to the national freedom movement was extraordinary. “More than 80% of the sacrifices in India’s freedom struggle were made by Punjabis, despite the fact that they constituted merely around 2% of the country’s population. The major movements associated with the freedom struggle were spearheaded by brave Punjabis,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted, “After Independence too, Punjabis have remained at the centre stage of the country’s progress. From safeguarding the nation’s borders to contributing to its economic development, Punjabis have always played their part with dedication and courage.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab is not only the food bowl of the country but has also produced several renowned entrepreneurs and industrialists who have rendered outstanding services in shaping the modern economy of India and Punjab.”
The Chief Minister said that the hardworking and resilient farmers of Punjab had played a crucial role in making the country self-reliant in food production. “Punjab’s farmers have made an enormous contribution towards making India self-reliant in food production. Even this year, Punjab will supply more than 180 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) of paddy to the national food pool,” he said.
He said that the rich history, culture, sacrifices and achievements of Punjab were a source of immense pride for every Punjabi and needed to be preserved for future generations.
