The Punjab chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) led by State Convener Maj Gen Balwinder Singh (retd) has addressed a formal appeal to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to incorporate rich cultural heritage of Punjab into the curriculum taught at school and college levels. The organization has pointed out that education is one of the main tools that would have to be used to consciously direct the education in culture towards the preservation of the cultural heritage for future generations.
The Chief Minister was written a letter by INTACH, expressing deep concern that the children are increasingly becoming alienated from their cultural roots. The Convener articulated an alarm that the current lot of youths was not aware of the rich and invaluable treasures that form the very identity of Punjab. “Do or Die” are the words used in the letter while describing the urgency of the situation. The letter desperately calls for immediate action so that this cultural fabric of Punjab does not get deteriorated.
Balwinder Singh says, “It will make the students really aware about their roots and develop a deeper bonding of the students with their culture along with values of tolerance, respect, and pride for cultural diversity as well.” He believed that education on cultural heritage is important for a well-rounded individual who helps one appreciate and understand the pride of his own culture and respect others’ diversity.
INTACH has even proposed collaboration with the government in building up knowledge modules that include both material and intangible heritage of Punjab. These modules could be accomplished through interactive forms, special classes on the state’s history, architecture, literature, art, and traditional practices. Field visits to historical sites, museums, and cultural centers would enable students to understand their heritage more vividly. The letter also recommends the conduct of workshops and seminars wherein the historians, artists, and cultural expert talk about the issues that would provide more interactive learning.
“INTACH believes that such initiatives would instill a feeling of pride and responsibility among the youth to safeguard Punjab’s cultural heritage for generations to come,” said Singh. The organization remains hopeful that the government would take prompt action in introducing this much-needed subject in the curricula of the state’s education system, realizing its significance in making people culturally aware as well as responsible citizens.
INTACH’s advocacy for such change can help the students bridge the gap between them and their rich cultural heritage, further reaffirming the significance to be attached towards conserving rich traditions and history that Punjab offers.
