The Punjab Government will soon create a dedicated fund for the welfare of its artists, who immensely contributed to keep the flame of ‘Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiyat’ ever high in the society, from various fields of art and culture.
The fund, announced by the Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal during the seventh All India Punjabi Conference at Punjabi University on Friday, would cater to the litterateurs, dramatists, folk singers, artistes and other personalities from the fields of language, art and culture from the State.
The decision came months after the State Government decided to bear all expenses on the treatment of renowned Punjabi Sufi singer Barkat Sidhu, who died on August 17, and Sangeeta Nair, niece of eminent freedom fighter Shaheed Sukhdev Thapar.
“I am deeply anguished to see several families of these iconic figures, who left indelible mark on the canvas of rich heritage of Punjabi art and culture, are now leading a life in penury and extreme difficult circumstances….I would ensure that the progeny of these noted stars of yesteryears could lead a life with honor and dignity,” said Badal.
He said that it was the state’s bounden duty not only to preserve the cultural
heritage but also to safeguard the interests of the next of their kin.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the need to document achievements of eminent Punjabis in varied fields not only in the country but across the world by publishing a directory so that they could also be felicitated at such forums.
“This initiative would not only help in honoring these sons of the soil for their rare feat but also motivate the millions of others to follow their footsteps,” he said.
Exhorting intellectuals, writers and experts of other fields working in all universities of the state to come forward and play a proactive role in ensuring all-round development of the State, Badal impressed upon them to must undertake field visits once in a week to take stock of ground realities and help the underprivileged sections of society especially in rural areas to sensitize them about the significance of education and skill training.
“There is no dearth of capability and skill in the rural areas but the need of the hour is to show them the right path,” said Badal.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister honored eminent personalities for outstanding contribution in art, culture and Punjabi literature. He also dedicated ‘Punjabi Pedia’ to the nation.
Badal also released English version of Mahan Kosh, authored by legendary Bhai Kahan Singh Nabha besides a souvenir to mark the occasion.
Chief Minister also announced Rs1 lakh grant to renowned Punjabi folk singer Idu Sharif.