Theme: Conservation of Nature in the Light of Gurmat Philosophy
Amritsar, June 2 (K.L. Jit Walia) – A three-day series of events dedicated to the 122nd birth anniversary of Bhagat Puran Singh, the founder of All India Pingalwara Charitable Society (Regd.), Amritsar, commenced at the Pingalwara campus. The program began with the recitation of the Gurbani verse “Balihari Kudrat Vasya”, emphasizing the importance of nature and creation.
On the first day, a seminar on “Conservation of Nature in the Light of Gurmat Philosophy” was organized to raise public awareness about environmental protection.
Welcoming the scholars and participants, Dr. Inderjit Kaur, Chief Sevadar of Pingalwara, said that Bhagat Puran Singh was a visionary who cared deeply not only for humanity but also for future generations. She noted that he had started raising awareness about environmental degradation nearly a century ago.
The first keynote speaker, renowned scholar and Dean of Khalsa College Dr. Inderjit Singh Gogoaṇi, described Bhagat Puran Singh as a true guardian of nature and humanity. He stated that protecting the environment would be the most meaningful tribute to Bhagat Puran Singh on his 122nd birth anniversary. He warned that environmental pollution is threatening the existence of both humans and wildlife and stressed that Gurbani strongly advocates environmental preservation.
Former Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, Giani Kewal Singh, said that Bhagat Puran Singh had begun educating people about environmental protection as early as 1927. He remarked that the concerns expressed by Bhagat Ji decades ago are becoming reality today. He emphasized that Bhagat Puran Singh lived according to Gurbani and that society should follow his teachings. He also expressed concern over water pollution, noting that people are increasingly dependent on bottled water.
Representing environmentalist Baba Seva Singh of Khadoor Sahib, Subedar Baba Balbir Singh said that modern lifestyles and excessive comforts are causing environmental destruction. He urged people to protect natural resources such as air, water, and land and encouraged every individual to plant at least 20 trees during their lifetime.
Agricultural economist and writer Dr. Sarbjit Singh Chhina pointed out that while environmental studies are being taught in schools and colleges, practical implementation remains lacking. He called upon governments and citizens to seriously address environmental degradation.
Principal Kulwant Singh highlighted that human life cannot be imagined without trees. He encouraged people to grow fruits and vegetables at home rather than relying solely on market produce, which may contain harmful chemicals. He stressed the importance of healthy food for a healthy life and described trees as humanity’s greatest friends.
Presiding over the seminar, MLA Dr. Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh praised Dr. Inderjit Kaur for carrying forward Bhagat Puran Singh’s mission by organizing seminars, rallies, and awareness campaigns on environmental issues. He stated that Bhagat Puran Singh provided a new direction to humanity through his practical way of life. He warned that rapid urbanization is damaging the environment and that groundwater resources may become increasingly scarce in the future. Rising global temperatures, he added, are threatening humans, animals, plants, and crops alike.
The seminar also featured a poem titled “Boote Laiye” (Let Us Plant Trees) presented by children, while poet Kamaljit Singh Neelon captivated the audience with his environmental-themed poetry.
The event was skillfully moderated by Amarjit Singh. Scholars, guests, and speakers were honored with mementos, and a continuous community kitchen (Guru Ka Langar) was served throughout the program.
Several Pingalwara office-bearers, administrators, educators, students from various colleges, universities, schools, and distinguished guests attended the seminar in large numbers.
KL JIT WALIA
