A three-day series of programs dedicated to the 122nd birth anniversary of Bhagat Puran Singh Ji, founder of the Pingalwara Institution, commenced at the premises of All India Pingalwara Charitable Society (Regd.), Amritsar. The event began with the melodious Gurbani hymn *“Balhari Kudrat Vasya”* (I am a sacrifice to the Creator who resides in His creation).
On the first day, a seminar on the theme ”Conservation of Nature in the Light of Gurmat Philosophy” was organized to create awareness among people regarding environmental protection. On this occasion, Dr. Inderjit Kaur, Mukh Sewadar of Pingalwara, welcomed the distinguished scholars and participants. She said that Bhagat Puran Singh Ji was a great visionary who cared deeply not only for the present generation but also for future generations around the world. She emphasized that Bhagat Puran Singh Ji had begun raising awareness about environmental degradation nearly a century ago.
The first speaker at the seminar was the eminent scholar and Dean of Khalsa College, Dr. Inderjit Singh Gogoyani, who shared his views with the audience. He described Bhagat Puran Singh Ji as a true guardian of the world and the environment. He stated that preserving the environment on the occasion of his 122nd birth anniversary would be the most genuine tribute to him. He warned that environmental pollution is threatening the existence of both humans and other living beings and stressed the need for greater public awareness. He further added that Gurbani places significant emphasis on environmental conservation.
Thereafter, Giani Kewal Singh, former Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, addressed the gathering. He stated that Bhagat Puran Singh Ji had begun educating people about environmental conservation as early as 1927, and the concerns he expressed then are proving true today. He remarked that Bhagat Puran Singh Ji lived up to his name and truly embodied the spirit of a devotee, living his life according to the teachings of Gurbani. He stressed that the world today needs to follow the teachings of Bhagat Puran Singh Ji. He also expressed concern that due to the contamination of water sources, people are increasingly dependent on bottled water for drinking.
Representing Baba Sewa Singh Ji of Khadoor Sahib, renowned for his environmental initiatives, Subedar Baba Balbir Singh Ji shared his views. He stated that in pursuit of comfort and luxury, modern man is himself polluting the environment and putting his own life at risk. He warned that if natural resources such as air, water, and land continue to be exploited and destroyed, human life will become increasingly difficult. He appealed that every individual should plant at least twenty trees during their lifetime.
On this occasion, noted agricultural economist and columnist Dr. Sarbjit Singh Chhina observed that although governments and educational institutions teach environmental studies and award degrees, practical efforts toward environmental protection remain inadequate. He urged both governments and citizens to seriously address the deteriorating state of the environment.
Principal Kulwant Singh Ji stated that human life cannot be imagined without trees and emphasized the importance of tree plantation. He advised people to avoid chemically contaminated fruits and vegetables available in markets and instead grow fruits and vegetables on their rooftops and in their homes. He stressed that healthy food is essential for a healthy life and described trees as humanity’s greatest friends.
Presiding over the seminar, Dr. Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, MLA Amritsar, stated that like Bhagat Puran Singh Ji, Dr. Inderjit Kaur is deeply concerned about the degradation of natural resources and committed to their protection. He noted that she regularly organizes rallies and seminars to spread awareness among the public. He said that Bhagat Puran Singh Ji provided a new direction to humanity through his practical way of life. He expressed concern that the environment is becoming a casualty of rapid urbanization. He highlighted that water, air, and other natural resources are priceless gifts of nature and must be preserved. He warned that in the future, access to groundwater for human use may become increasingly difficult. Rising global temperatures, he added, are posing a serious threat to humans, animals, plants, and crops. He expressed hope that such seminars would continue in the future and that Pingalwara would persist in its efforts to create awareness for the betterment of humanity.
During the event, children presented the poem “Boote Laiye” (Let Us Plant Trees). Poet Kamaljit Singh Neelon also recited his poems, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.
The seminar proceedings were skillfully conducted by **S. Amarjit Singh Ji**. The distinguished scholars and guests were honoured with mementos in recognition of their contributions. Throughout the event, **Guru Ka Langar** (the community kitchen) was continuously served.
