Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has called on citizens to fulfil their constitutional duties alongside exercising their rights, saying India’s progress depends on every individual contributing to nation-building. He also announced a grant of Rs 11 lakh for the Panchanad Research Institute to support its research activities.
Saini was addressing the 33rd annual lecture and pre-Lokmanthan programme organised by the Panchanad Research Institute in Chandigarh on Sunday. The event focused on the theme, “We the People of India, Our Responsibility.”
The Chief Minister said public discussions often focused on citizens’ rights, while their duties and responsibilities received comparatively less attention. He stressed the need to understand the role of individuals in strengthening society and democratic institutions.
‘India’s Progress Depends On Every Citizen’s Contribution’
Saini said the opening words of the Constitution’s Preamble, “We, the People of India”, underline the central role of citizens in the country’s democratic system.
While the Constitution safeguards individual rights, freedom and dignity, he said it also expects citizens to fulfil their responsibilities towards the country, society and one another.
He added that rights empower citizens, while duties guide the responsible use of that power. According to him, democracy becomes stronger when rights and responsibilities go hand in hand.
Referring to Article 51A of the Constitution, Saini highlighted fundamental duties such as respecting constitutional ideals, preserving the values of the freedom struggle, protecting India’s unity and integrity, promoting social harmony, respecting the dignity of women and safeguarding the country’s cultural heritage and environment.
CM Calls For Social Harmony And Respect For Diversity
The Chief Minister said citizens must respect constitutional institutions and maintain dialogue even when they disagree on political or social issues. He emphasised that differences of opinion should not come at the cost of mutual respect or adherence to the law.
He also called for stronger social harmony, saying no individual should be considered inferior or superior because of their language, caste, religion, region or economic circumstances.
Saini said India’s diversity should be viewed as a source of strength and urged people to treat fellow citizens with equality and respect. He added that such an approach could help create a society where women feel safe, senior citizens receive respect and disadvantaged people have access to opportunities.
Saini Highlights Haryana’s Contribution To Nation-Building
Speaking about Haryana’s role in national development, Saini highlighted the contributions of soldiers, farmers and sportspersons. He said soldiers protect the country, farmers contribute to food security and athletes bring recognition to India through their achievements.
He also referred to industrial growth and other development initiatives in the state.
The Chief Minister discussed the Haryana government’s employment arrangements for Agniveers, stating that officials had been instructed to issue joining letters when the first group became eligible to enter the state’s government services under the applicable arrangements. He also referred to initiatives promoting natural farming.
Saini highlighted the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign, noting the importance of education, dignity and opportunities for girls. He said women were demonstrating their abilities in fields such as defence and sports and that supporting their progress was a shared responsibility.
Water Conservation, Digital Responsibility Among Key Messages
The Chief Minister said the vision of Viksit Bharat, or a developed India, required participation from citizens, educational institutions and organisations. He referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for collective involvement in the country’s development.
Saini urged people to conserve water, reduce electricity consumption, maintain cleanliness and develop skills and a stronger sense of civic responsibility.
He also cautioned against forwarding unverified information on digital platforms, stressing that people should check the authenticity of information before sharing it to prevent confusion and the spread of misinformation.
According to Saini, citizens do not need to wait for major opportunities to contribute to the nation. Everyday actions such as honesty, discipline, cooperation, environmental awareness and respect for others can also strengthen society.
The programme was attended by Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts Member Secretary and event organiser Dr Sachchidanand Joshi, Panchanad Research Institute President Professor Brij Kishore Kuthiala, Executive President Dr Jagbir Singh, Director Bhola Ram Gurjar, Vikram Arora, and Chief Minister’s OSD and Swarna Jayanti Haryana Institute for Fiscal Management Director General Dr Raj Nehru, among other dignitaries.
