Chandigarh, September 9, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab’s rich cultural heritage came alive at “Teej and Raksha Bandhan – Saheliyan Da Samagam”, organised by the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development for girls residing in Child Care Institutions across the state, along with specially-abled girls from Navjeevani Institute of Special Education and Research, Patiala.
Punjab Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development Dr. Baljit Kaur attended the celebration as Chief Guest and joined the children in marking the festivals, conveying a message of love, dignity, inclusion, empowerment and social harmony.
Dr. Baljit Kaur congratulated Director of the Department Dr. Sheena Aggarwal and the departmental team for organising the programme, saying such celebrations bring joy to children while building confidence, hope, a sense of belonging and the courage to dream bigger.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister said Teej represents the strength, aspirations and resilience of women, while Raksha Bandhan symbolises bonds of love, trust and shared responsibility.
“Let us honour every daughter, empower her to realise her potential and collectively ensure a brighter future for every child,” she said.
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasised that women should not be viewed merely as those who need protection, but also as strong protectors of their families and society. She noted that daughters are making significant contributions in administration, education, healthcare, justice, entrepreneurship and public service.
Highlighting the participation of children from Child Care Institutions and specially-abled girls from Navjeevani Institute, the Minister said the event provided them with an opportunity to showcase their talent, strengthen self-belief and dream without limitations. She stressed that every child deserves equal opportunities and can overcome challenges with proper guidance and encouragement.
She said the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to providing every daughter and child with a safe, caring, inclusive and opportunity-filled environment. Quality education, safety, equal opportunities and holistic development, she added, remain among the government’s key priorities.
The Minister also underlined the importance of preserving Punjab’s cultural heritage, describing folk music, traditional dances and cultural traditions as integral to the state’s identity and an important means of connecting younger generations with their roots and shared values.
The celebration featured colourful Punjabi folk dances, soulful Trinjan songs and performances by children from various Child Care Institutions. Their enthusiasm and confidence drew enthusiastic applause from the audience.
The venue was decorated to resemble a traditional Punjabi village, with Phulkari embroidery, spinning wheels, handcrafted artefacts and rural décor showcasing the state’s traditional lifestyle and folk heritage.
Interacting with the children, Dr. Baljit Kaur extended greetings on Teej and Raksha Bandhan and encouraged them to remain connected with their mother tongue, culture and values while pursuing excellence in education and other fields. She also urged women to recognise their inner strength, overcome social stereotypes and contribute confidently to building a progressive and compassionate society.
The Minister appreciated the efforts of the children, artists, caregivers, organisers and departmental officials in making the programme successful. The event concluded with folk songs and energetic Giddha performances, reinforcing messages of respect for daughters, child welfare, women’s empowerment, cultural pride and inclusive social development.
Among those present were Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, Raji P. Srivastava (IAS); Principal Secretary Rakhi Gupta Bhandari (IAS); Bhawna Garg (IAS); Hargunjeet Kaur (IAS); Vimmi Bhullar (IAS); and other distinguished dignitaries and senior officers of the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development.
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