Punjab News:Dr. Baljit Kaur Celebrates Teej and Raksha Bandhan with Girls from Child Care Institutions, Inspires Hope through Punjab’s Rich Cultural Heritage

Punjab News:Dr. Baljit Kaur Celebrates Teej and Raksha Bandhan with Girls from Child Care Institutions, Inspires Hope through Punjab’s Rich Cultural Heritage

*’Saheliyan Da Samagam’ celebrates womanhood, friendship and confidence while giving every child a platform to shine*

*Punjab Government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to ensuring a safe, dignified and opportunity-filled future for every daughter and every child: Dr. Baljit Kaur*

*Folk dances, Trinjan songs, Phulkari displays and a vibrant Punjabi village ambience create an unforgettable celebration of culture and child welfare*

Punjab’s vibrant cultural heritage came alive in all its colours as the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development organised “Teej and Raksha Bandhan – Saheliyan Da Samagam” for girls residing in Child Care Institutions across the State, along with specially-abled girls from Navjeevani Institute of Special Education and Research, Patiala. Punjab’s Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, attended the event as the Chief Guest and celebrated the festivals with the children, spreading the message of love, dignity, inclusion, empowerment and social harmony.

Commending the initiative, Dr. Baljit Kaur congratulated Director, Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Sheena Aggarwal, and the entire departmental team for conceptualising such a meaningful and inspiring programme. She said that celebrations like these not only bring smiles to children’s faces but also instil confidence, hope, belongingness and the courage to dream bigger.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister said, “Teej symbolises the strength, aspirations and resilience of women, while Raksha Bandhan reflects bonds of love, trust and shared responsibility. Let us honour every daughter, empower her to realise her potential and collectively ensure a brighter future for every child.”

She observed that women are not merely entitled to protection but are themselves the strongest protectors of their families and society. She added that today’s daughters are excelling in administration, education, healthcare, justice, entrepreneurship and public service, making invaluable contributions to nation-building.

Highlighting the participation of girls from Child Care Institutions and specially-abled children from Navjeevani Institute of Special Education and Research, Patiala, Dr. Baljit Kaur said the event was designed to provide them with a platform to showcase their talent, nurture self-belief and inspire them to dream without limits. She emphasised that every child deserves equal opportunities and, with the right guidance and encouragement, can overcome every challenge.

The Minister said that under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is firmly committed to creating a safe, caring, inclusive and opportunity-rich environment for every daughter and every child. She reiterated that ensuring quality education, safety, equal opportunities and holistic development remains one of the Government’s highest priorities so that every child can realise his or her full potential.

Emphasising the importance of preserving Punjab’s cultural legacy, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that folk music, traditional dances and cultural traditions are the soul of Punjab’s identity and play a vital role in connecting younger generations with their roots while strengthening shared social values.

The cultural extravaganza captivated the audience with colourful Punjabi folk dances, soulful Trinjan songs and vibrant performances by children from various Child Care Institutions. Their confidence, enthusiasm and remarkable talent earned thunderous applause and left the audience deeply moved.

The venue was transformed into a traditional Punjabi village adorned with exquisite Phulkari embroidery, spinning wheels, handcrafted artefacts and authentic rural décor, offering visitors a vivid glimpse of Punjab’s timeless heritage and rich folk traditions.

Interacting warmly with the children, Dr. Baljit Kaur extended heartfelt greetings on the occasions of Teej and Raksha Bandhan and encouraged them to remain connected with their mother tongue, culture and values while striving for excellence in education and every sphere of life. She also appealed to women to recognise their inner strength, rise above social stereotypes and contribute confidently towards building a progressive and compassionate society.

The Minister appreciated the wholehearted efforts of the children, artists, caregivers, organisers and departmental officials who made the celebration memorable. The programme concluded with enthralling folk songs and energetic Giddha performances, leaving behind a lasting message of respect for daughters, child welfare, women’s empowerment, cultural pride and the Punjab Government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive social development.

Among those present were Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, Mrs. Raji P. Srivastava (IAS); Principal Secretary Mrs. Rakhi Gupta Bhandari (IAS); Mrs. Bhawna Garg (IAS); Mrs. Hargunjeet Kaur (IAS); Mrs. Vimmi Bhullar (IAS); besides other distinguished dignitaries and senior officers of the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development.