Highlighting the transformative initiatives undertaken by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government to uphold the vision of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday said that with six Scheduled Caste (SC) Ministers in the cabinet, the AAP government has set a precedent in representation and inclusivity.
He said for the first time ever, Punjab Government has introduced reservation in the Advocate General’s office, ensuring equitable opportunities in the legal domain. Additionally, the hassle-free disbursement of SC scholarships has empowered countless students to pursue their dreams without financial barriers.
Addressing a district-level function held at DAVIET to commemorate the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema also called upon the youth to become torchbearers of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s ideology, asserting that walking on the path shown by the revered leader is the most befitting tribute to Baba Sahib.
The Minister, accompanied by MLAs Balkar Singh and Inderjit Kaur Mann, Mayor Vineet Dhir, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal, and Commissioner of Police Ms. Dhanpreet Kaur, emphasized that Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of social and political equality remains as relevant today as ever.
Highlighting Dr. Ambedkar’s monumental contribution as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, Cheema said that his efforts ensured universal suffrage; empowering every citizen to participate equally in the democratic process. “The dream of an equitable and progressive society can only be realized when we actively engage in the democratic process and exercise our right to vote responsibly,” he said.
Calling Dr. Ambedkar a towering global personality, Mr. Cheema urged students to draw inspiration from his life and work to build an inclusive and just society. He added that Dr. Ambedkar not only framed the Constitution but also laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Reserve Bank of India, showcasing his farsighted vision.
The Minister highlighted the Punjab Government's commitment to upholding Dr. Ambedkar's principles under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. “In a historic move, this government ensured that the portraits of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar are displayed in all government offices, replacing the previous practice of featuring then-serving Chief Ministers,” he noted.
Mr. Cheema also detailed several initiatives undertaken for the welfare of Scheduled Castes, including the reservation of 58 posts for SC/ST candidates in the appointment of advocates to the AG office. He pointed out that the state government has ensured timely disbursal of funds under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme, in contrast to previous Governments, which he accused of misappropriating funds meant for SC students.
In a major relief to marginalized families, Mr. Cheema said the Punjab Government has waived loans issued by the SC Corporation before March 31, 2020, benefiting individuals unable to repay due to financial hardship.Encouraging students to take advantage of the state's ongoing mega employment drive, the Minister informed that over 50,000 government jobs have already been filled.
Many more opportunities are coming, and our youth must be well-prepared to seize them,” he added.On the occasion, the Minister distributed allotment letters to beneficiaries under the Ashirwad Scheme, Shagun Scheme, and Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme. Several beneficiaries also shared personal stories of how these welfare schemes have provided vital support during times of need.
The Minister also released a coffee table book showcasing the government’s initiatives for the welfare of SC/ST and minority communities. District Administration led by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal honoured the Minister with a momento for this participation in this District Level Event.
Prominent amongst others present on the occasion included Chairman Punjab Minorities Commission Abdul Bahri Salmani, Chairman improvement trust Rajwinder Kaur Thiara, Chairman Punjab Agri Export Limited Mangal Singh Bassi, AAP District Urban President and Chairman District Planning Committee Amritpal Singh. AAP District President Rural Stephen Kaler, Advisor Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board Deepak Bali, Pawan Kumar Tinu, Halqa Incharge Jeet Lal Bhatti and Principal Prem Kumar.
Educational transformation in Punjab reflects Dr. Ambedkar’s Ideology: Harpal Singh Cheema
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema today said the state’s educational transformation is a true reflection of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s ideology. Paying floral tributes to Baba Sahib on his 134th birth anniversary at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Chowk, Mr. Cheema emphasized that Dr. Ambedkar strongly advocated education as a means to social empowerment.
He noted that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has prioritized education through initiatives like the establishment of Schools of Eminence and other significant reforms in the education sector; achievements he described as a genuine tribute to Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Cheema also condemned the desecration of Dr. Ambedkar’s statue and urged the Union Government to take swift action against those responsible. He called for the immediate extradition of the culprits from abroad to ensure justice is served. MLAs Balkar Singh, Raman Arora, Inderjit Kaur Mann along with other senior leaders were present on the ocassion.