Minister, Sikh leaders launch Nanak Shahi calendar

LAHORE: Minister for Minority Affairs/Chairman Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora Saturday participated in a ceremony organised at Janamasthan on the beginning of the of the Nanak Shahi calendar of Sikh religion.

A large number of Sikh leaders from different countries including Pakistan were present. The minister along with the Sikh leaders launched the new Nanak Shahi calendar and congratulated the Sikh community on the commencement of the 556th year of the Nanak Shahi calendar.

Addressing the ceremony, Ramesh Singh said that all religious minorities have equal rights in Pakistan, while the Pakistan Muslim League (N) government is ensuring the implementation of five percent quota for religious minorities in government jobs.

He said that it is a matter of great joy for the Sikh community that for the first time in the country's history, a Sikh has been made a provincial minister in the Sikh community and Pakistan has set a unique example by making a Sikh woman the general secretary of the Parbandhak Committee.

He said, “We are all united under the green flag and rest assured that Protection of places of worship of all religious minorities will be ensured.”

He emphasised that the birthplace of Guru Nanak will make an ideal city while a playground will be built in Nankana Sahib for Sikh youth. He gave good news to the Sikh community that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will visit Nankana Sahib soon so that the problems of the residents of Nankana city can be solved on priority.

He assured that Baba Guru Nanak University is a national project. He said it will be completed early and said he will establish Baba Guru Nanak Chair in Baba Guru Nanak University while solving the issue of funds for Baba Guru Nanak.