Chandigarh: Fulfilling a major promise made to the Sikh community and the people of Haryana, Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini has ensured the inclusion of the history of Sikh Gurus and Baba Banda Singh Bahadur in the Class 8 history curriculum of schools in the state. School students will now have an opportunity to learn about the sacrifices, martyrdom, ideals and enduring legacy of the Sikh Gurus as well as Baba Banda Singh Bahadur.
The Chief Minister during the 350th martyrdom anniversary of ‘Hind di Chadar’ Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji held in Haryana had announced that Sikh history, the teachings of the Gurus and their unparalleled sacrifices would be incorporated into school education so that future generations could be acquainted with this rich legacy.
The State Government has now fulfilled that commitment by formally including the subject in the curriculum.
Nayab Singh Saini said that from Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, all Sikh Gurus propagated the values of humanity, equality, selfless service, compassion, brotherhood and social justice. They inspired society to rise above divisions of caste, religion and class and work for the welfare of humanity.He said the teachings of the Sikh Gurus remain as relevant today as ever, as they continue to provide guidance for strengthening social harmony, moral values and national unity. The Chief Minister said that the lives of the Sikh Gurus and Baba Banda Singh Bahadur are not merely the heritage of a particular community but a source of inspiration for the entire nation.
He said that inspired by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur waged a historic struggle against injustice, oppression and exploitation and played a pioneering role in securing dignity and rights for the weaker and marginalized sections of society. His life stands as a unique example of courage, leadership, patriotism and commitment to public welfare, and continues to inspire young people to walk the path of truth and justice.
Nayab Singh Saini said that at a time when there is a need to connect the younger generation with India’s glorious history and the ideals of great personalities, chapters based on the lives of the Sikh Gurus and Baba Banda Singh Bahadur will serve as a powerful source of inspiration for students. Through these lessons, students will develop a stronger sense of patriotism, service, social harmony, moral values and responsible citizenship, he said.
The Chief Minister said that the Haryana Government views education not merely as a means of acquiring knowledge but as a powerful instrument for character building. It is with this vision that the lives and teachings of such great personalities, who made exemplary contributions to the nation and society, are being incorporated into the school curriculum. He expressed confidence that the initiative would not only connect students with their cultural and historical heritage but also inspire them to become sensitive, aware and dedicated citizens committed to the larger interests of the nation.
Nayab Singh Saini further said that the Haryana Government is continuously working towards the preservation and promotion of the state’s rich cultural, spiritual and historical heritage and will continue to take meaningful steps in the future to ensure that the ideals of great saints, Gurus and national icons reach the younger generation.
OSD to Chief Minister, Dr. Prabhleen Singh, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Minister for this significant initiative of the Haryana Government. He said the Chief Minister has honoured the sentiments of the Sikh community by fulfilling a long-pending demand that carries deep emotional significance for the community.
He added that the decision is not only a matter of pride and honour for the Sikh community but also reflects the state government’s sensitivity and inclusive approach towards all sections of society.
