Religion Provides a Sense of Security in Human Life: Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur
— 55th Session of Punjab History Conference Begins at Punjabi University
— Conference Initiated by Renowned Historian Dr. Ganda Singh in 1965
Patiala, April 25:
The 55th session of the Punjab History Conference commenced today at Punjabi University, Patiala, organized by the Department of History and Punjab Historical Studies. Themed “Religions in Punjab: Spread and Impact,” the conference was inaugurated with Punjab Government’s Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur as the chief guest.
In her address, Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized the profound significance of religion in human life. “Religion holds a vital place in the lives of ordinary people, providing emotional and social security,” she said. “It fosters a sense of unity and connection among individuals.” Highlighting the contributions of various religions in Punjab, she noted their role in enhancing human well-being. Speaking on Sikhism, she remarked that Guru Nanak Dev Ji eradicated superstition and ignorance, fearlessly challenging oppressors like Babar for the sake of justice—a philosophy deeply rooted in Punjab’s ethos.
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Vice-Chancellor Prof. Karamjeet Singh, in his presidential address, stressed the importance of sustained discussions on such themes. He urged that the insights and suggestions emerging from the conference be systematically documented and preserved. Prof. Singh also proposed that Punjabi University digitize its invaluable archives to align with modern technological advancements.
Prof. K.T.S. Sarao from Nalanda University, Bihar, serving as the General President, delivered an in-depth talk on the connections between various religions and Punjab. He stated, “History bears witness that Punjab’s soil has given birth to numerous religious traditions.” Citing evidence from the Rigveda, Sanghol excavations, and historical documents, he elaborated on the deep ties of Buddhism and Jainism with Punjab.
Dr. Sandeep Kaur, Head of the Department, welcomed the attendees and outlined the conference’s theme and the schedule of academic sessions. She highlighted that the Punjab History Conference, initiated in 1965 by renowned historian Dr. Ganda Singh, is India’s oldest regional history conference. The event attracts hundreds of delegates from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and other states.
Registrar Prof. Sanjeev Puri, in his vote of thanks, emphasized the university’s CSR-funded digitization project and invited the Department of History and Punjab Historical Studies to collaborate on it. The inaugural session was moderated by Dr. Praneet Kaur.
Following the inauguration, Prof. Joginder Singh, former Head of the History Department at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, delivered the “Professor Sita Ram Memorial Lecture.”
Distinguished personalities presiding over various sessions, including Prof. Seema Bawa, Prof. Radha Sharma, Prof. Dharmjit Singh, and Prof. Amarjit Singh, were honored during the inaugural session.
