PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the State government is fully committed to provide a safe and empowering environment for children. He conveyed this message in a letter sent during a programme organised by the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) on the auspicious occasion of Veer Bal Diwas 2025, held on Wednesday. The programme aimed to pay tribute to the unparalleled courage, sacrifice and unwavering faith of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, while also instilling courage, moral values, self-respect and awareness of their rights among children.
During the programme, children from various fields were also honoured.
In his letter the CM said that Veer Bal Diwas symbolises the memory of the indomitable courage, unwavering resolve and unparalleled sacrifice of those brave children who, even at a young age, stood up against injustice, oppression, and unrighteousness, giving their lives to protect truth and religion. He expressed his belief that the SCPCR would continue to organise programmes that align with its objectives of protecting children’s rights, spreading awareness and actively intervening in sensitive matters.
“During the tenure of the State government, such historically significant events, which were often overlooked, have received the respect they deserve,” said Women Empowerment and Child Development (WECD) minister Rekha Arya. Arya emphasised that children should always learn to stand for truth and justice, just as the four Sahibzadas did according to the needs of their time. During the event, she also honoured children who excelled at the national level in shooting, table tennis, writing, yoga and other sports competitions.
Chief Development Officer (CDO) Abhinav Shah provided information about the administration’s ongoing child welfare programs, stating that the future of society lies in the hands of children. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility to ensure their safety, education and empowerment.
In her address the SCPCR Chairperson Geeta Khanna, highlighted the historical significance of Veer Bal Diwas, noting that the martyrdom of the Sahibzadas is not just a relic of the past but a vibrant message for today’s society. She elaborated on children’s rights, education, protection, respect and participation, affirming the Commission’s continuous commitment to the overall development and protection of children.
