New Delhi, February 18
In major signalling on the eve of February 20 Punjab elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hosted a group of Sikh leaders at his official residence and said it was his honour to have been able to serve the community.
“I was humbled by the kind words from the distinguished members of the Sikh community on various efforts of the Central Government. I consider it my honour that the respected Sikh Gurus have taken ‘sewa’ from me and their blessings have enabled me to work for society,” the PM said after hosting over 34 Sikh leaders at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.
Each guest presented the PM with a ‘Siropa’ and ‘Siri Sahib’ and hailed the steps the government has taken for the welfare of the Sikh community, especially the declaration of December 26 as Veer Baal Diwas to honour the sacrifices of the Sahibzaadas.
The PM said many regions of India didn’t know about the inspiring lives of Chaar Sahibzaade and that he always mentioned their contributions to school students whenever he had a chance.
“The decision to celebrate 26 December as Veer Baal Diwas will go a long way in making kids from all corners of the country aware about the Sahibzaadas,” said the PM recalling his days in Punjab and adding that his doors were always open for Sikhs.
