Uttarakhand Child Rights Protection Commission Observes Veer Bal Diwas with Solemn Tribute in Dehradun
The Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh epitomize courage and supreme sacrifice: Rekha Arya
Eight meritorious children honored for excellence at national and state levels
Dehradun: On the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas, the Uttarakhand State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (USCPCR) organized a dignified and inspiring program on Wednesday at the auditorium of the Institute of Research, Development and Training (IRDT), Survey Chowk, Dehradun. The event paid heartfelt tribute to the unparalleled courage and martyrdom of the four Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh—the tenth Sikh Guru—namely Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh, and Sahibzada Fateh Singh.
The objective of the program was to inculcate values of courage, sacrifice, self-respect, moral integrity, and awareness of child rights among children, while inspiring them through the heroic legacy of the young martyrs.
In his message, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami described Veer Bal Diwas as a symbol of indomitable bravery, unwavering resolve, and supreme sacrifice displayed by the Sahibzadas at a very young age. He said that their martyrdom continues to inspire generations and serves as a guiding light for the nation’s youth.
During the program, students from the Hemkund Sahib Management Trust presented a soulful rendition of Gurbani Kirtan, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. The event concluded with children, teachers, and dignitaries singing the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ together in a display of unity and patriotism.
Addressing the gathering, Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya said that the courage, sacrifice, and steadfast devotion of the Sahibzadas remain a timeless source of inspiration for children and youth across the country. She stated that the Sahibzadas fearlessly stood against tyranny and injustice, sacrificing their lives to protect humanity, faith, and moral values—an immortal chapter in Indian history.
The minister emphasized that by refusing to bow before oppressive forces, the Sahibzadas upheld the noble traditions of Sikhism, which teaches resistance against injustice and oppression. She remarked that Veer Bal Diwas sends a powerful message that true bravery and sacrifice are not defined by age. Rekha Arya expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the historic decision to commemorate the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons as Veer Bal Diwas at the national level.
Describing children as the foundation and future of the nation, she encouraged them to move forward with confidence, strong values, and a sense of responsibility towards society.
On this occasion, the Cabinet Minister honored eight children for their outstanding achievements in national and state-level competitions. Certificates were awarded to Vaishnavi Singh, Yamair Tomar, and Yohana Tomar for their exceptional performance in national-level shooting competitions. Additionally, Suraj Dev Verma, Sarlong Hanse, Ankit Patel (Yoga), Daniraj Tripura (Table Tennis), and Hemphu Sarmon Angthi (Essay Competition) were honored for their achievements at the state level.
Chairperson of the Uttarakhand Child Rights Protection Commission, Dr. Geeta Khanna, addressed the children and provided detailed information about child rights, the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, the POCSO Act, and various welfare schemes being implemented for children. She also administered a pledge to promote a safe, inclusive, and child-friendly society. Dr. Khanna informed the audience about the 24-hour toll-free emergency helpline 1098, available for the protection and assistance of children in distress.
She also appreciated the functioning of the modern Intensive Care Center at Sadhu Ram Inter College, Dehradun—an initiative of the district administration—highlighting its role in rehabilitating child beggars and school dropouts by reintegrating them into the education system.
Chief Development Officer Abhinav Shah educated the children about their rights, duties, and moral responsibilities on the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas (Brave Children’s Day). He inspired them to follow the ideals of great national leaders and shared information about various child welfare schemes being implemented by the administration. He stressed that children hold the future of society and that ensuring their safety, education, and empowerment is a collective responsibility.
Officials of the commission further sensitized the children about their legal rights and encouraged them to walk the path of courage, truth, and justice.
In the concluding session, Dr. Shiv Kumar Barnwal, Secretary of the Commission, presented the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all guests, participants, teachers, students, and supporting institutions for making the program a success.
Prominent attendees included Narendrajeet Singh Bindra, Chairman of the Hemkund Sahib Management Trust; Dr. S.K. Singh, Under Secretary; Vinod Kaparwan, former Commission member; DPO Jitendra Kumar; Chief Education Officer V.K. Dhaudiyal, along with a large number of school students and distinguished guests.
