Governor Gulab Chand Kataria Attends ‘Kanya Samman Samaroh’ in Fazilka; 251 Newborn Girls Honoured
The Voice of Chandigarh
A dignified, emotional and inspiring Kanya Samman Samaroh (Girl Child Felicitation Ceremony) was organized in Fazilka, in which Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria participated as the chief guest along with his wife Anita Kataria, First Lady of Punjab.
The ceremony conveyed a strong message of respect, security and empowerment of the girl child. The event was jointly organized by Sarhad Social Welfare Society and Karan Gillhotra Foundation at City Garden Palace, Abohar Road. During the programme, 251 newborn girls and their families were honoured.
As a mark of respect and support, bicycles, blankets, baby suits, baby care kits, mother care kits, gift hampers and other useful items were distributed to the girls and their parents. A special draw was also held, in which 21 lucky families were gifted almirahs.
Present on the occasion were Vivek Pratap, Principal Secretary to the Punjab Governor, and the district’s three MLAs—Narinderpal Singh Sawna, Jagdeep Kamboj Goldy and Amandeep Singh Goldy Musafir. The ceremony began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the chief guests.
Welcoming the dignitaries and gathering, Karan Gillhotra, Founder of Karan Gillhotra Foundation, said that daughters are no less than anyone. “If they are given equal opportunities, education and respect, they illuminate the name of society and the nation. Our effort is to ensure that every daughter is safe, educated and self-reliant,” he said, adding that the foundation will continue to prioritize the welfare of girls, needy families and social causes in the future.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria lauded the initiative and said he was extremely pleased to see such a large and inspiring social programme being organized in a small border town like Fazilka, located along the India–Pakistan border. He emphasized that daughters form the foundation of society, and when girls are respected, the entire social fabric becomes stronger. Such events, he said, help change mindsets and initiate positive social transformation.
The Governor further stated that to eradicate social evils like female foeticide and to ensure equal status for girls, active participation of society is essential alongside government efforts. He congratulated the organizing institutions for their noble initiative and termed it an inspiration for other districts.
On this occasion, Rakesh Nagpal, President of Sarhad Social Welfare Society, said that the core objective of the society is to strengthen the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign at the grassroots level rather than confining it to slogans. He reiterated that daughters are second to none.
At the conclusion of the programme, Rakesh Nagpal expressed gratitude to all guests and participants. The stage was efficiently conducted by Pankaj Dhamija and Ravi Khurana. Cultural performances including welcome songs, Lohri songs and Giddha were presented by various schools, adding vibrancy to the event.
