The spokesman weekly vol 29 no 46 july 14 1980

Vol. 29· No. 46

NEW DELHI-14th July. 1980

Price: SO Paise

IIChandigarh Part And Parcel Of Punjab·· Darbara Singh To Resist Haryana Move On Punjab University Puujab's political parties, irrespective of their creeds and hues, must join hands together to nip.in the bud a new mischief by Haryana.

The lead has already been given by Chief Minister Darbara Singh. Replying to the fourday debate on Governor's Address in the State Assembly, he declared: "Chandigarh belongs to Punjab. It is part and parcel of the State".

He also announced that Punjab Government would oppose Haryana's move to - reaffiliate 20 colleges of Ambala district with Punjab University.

Under the Punjab University Act, Haryana had no right to do so, as it had earlier disaffiliated these colleges from it. He promised to write to the Central Government about it immediately.

The new salvo was fired by Haryana Chief Minister Bhajan Lal on July 7. After a Cabinet meeting, he told pressmen: "Chandigarh is part of Haryana and tbis State has as much right on Punjab University, located in the city, as Punjab". To buttress this contention, he announced that 20 colleges, now affiliated to Kurukshetra University, were being linked back University at with Punjab Chandigarh.

The motives behind the new move are not yet clear. Also no one can say/with certainty why he has chosen the present moment to make the announcement. But there must be something much more than what meets the naked eye. lt is just possible that Mr. Bhajan Lal was privy to some central inclination to implement Mrs. Indira Gandhi's own decision of January 29, 1971, under which the city beautiful had to be merged with Punjab "within five years". When this deadline was reached, the country was

in the throes of an emergency, and no one had the time or the energy for such contentioas issues. Then came the downfall of Mrs. Gandhi's Government.

The succeeding Janta and Lok Dal Governments were too preoccupied in their own internal fissures to pay attention to this vital problem.

Having got wind of the central mind, Mr. Bhajan Lal saw wisdom in reviving his state's cla im through devious

means. And he thougbt Punjab University was the alley wbich could give him a new opening.

His reasoning lacks basis.

He said Chandigarh was very close to Am bala, as Am bala district territory started just foul' kilometres from the secretariat.

(Continued on next page)

Mixed Reaction To Indian Recognition Of Kampucbea NEED TO WIN OVER ASEAN COUNTRIES India's recognition of the Heng Samrin Government in Kampuchea, though belated, should be hailed inasmuch as it ends uncertainty about our position.

New Delhi has always followed the British dictum that a government, which is in effective contro} of a country, deserves recogmtion. There is no doubt that so-called Pol Pot forces have only small pockets of resistanc.e. The latest move did not come as a surprise, as it was included in Congress (I) election manifesto.

The delay of six months after Mrs Gandhi rode to power in January tbis year can be explained by our desire to carry the ASEAN countries with us.

But this was not to be so. Their reaction to Indian decision is manifestation of this wide gulf yawning between us and them.

These countries are guined by their own compulsions.

At one time Indonesia and Malaysia were reconciled to the new situation and were about to recognise Heng Samrin regime. But Soviet intervention in Afghanistan hardened their positions toward both Vietnam and Kampuchea. Thailand is embroiled in a wasteful confiict with Vietnamese and Kampuchean forces. Its accept.nce of

massive arms supplies from USA does not lessen its burdens especially with respect to refugee~ spilling across the border.

China has always regarded the area as its special sphere of influence. Hence the continued supply of arms' and support to Khmer Rouge remnants. But this · in itself gives Hanoi an excuse to keep its forces in wellKampuchea.

Beijing's orchestrated campaign against Vietnam on several counts has to be seen as part of SiDo-Soviet rift.

Beijing leaders have overreacted by saying that recognition of Heng Samrin government would sully India's image as a non-aligned power. We have to take a decision one way or the other on our own understanding of the situation. China bas forgotten that w.e were ~mon!! the first countfles to gIve It recognition when most of her present friends were treating it as a pariah.

ASEAN nations fear that Vietnam may ~e~ome ~ rallying g~o,:,nd for pO.hlt.cal radl~als and dISSIdents wlthm thelT own confines. But former Indo-China

states cannot be wishhked away.

Any unrest there can best be countered by improvmg the lot of their people. However much you might dislike their ideology, - you cannot quarantme them.

Unfortunately, India has lost ~ grea~ . opportuDlty. to explam ItS pOSItIon to promm~nt work\ leaders who gathered 10 Tokyo' thIS week to attend formel" Prime Minister Obira's funeral. ' Mrs Indira Gandhi conld not attend because.of bereavement ill her. own family. But a senior m!nIster, IOstead of just a mmister . of state for industrieg, Mr Cbanana, should have been de~uted: Funeral diplomacy, whIch IS ~ recent development 10 mternatlOnal relations, bas cO.mo: to stay. And some ofthe mlSglvmgs about India's latest .stand co~ld,!!ave been dissipated, If not entIrely removed. .

Our concern still is to ease tension all around us. That is why we are making efforts to Improve relations with Pakistan and China. Our insistence on Russian withdrawal . from Afghanistan is also a step ·in that' directioll. However a concerted move must be made to win over ASEAN .countries, especially because lakhs of Indians reside there.

'fHE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY The Planning Commissio)l has aecided to increase . the outlay for Punjab's i annual Plan for \980-8\ by about Rs 25 Crore.

..

;

As ap :l inst a PI;m outlay of Rs ,258_97 crore for \979-80,

(Cqnt,inlled from previous page) , But he forgot that!l'unjab's_KoPar district has its territory wh'ch is just t wo and a half kilometers from the secretariat_ He also argued that Chandigarh was carved out of Ambala district and was, therefore, part

of Harya ' ,L In the same way, Haryana was carved out of erstwhile Punjab and so must cease to cx:ist and return to the parent state. Thus, according to Mr, Bhajan Lal's own premises, Hrlryana is ringing ltS own deat h-knell.

Above a ll, Chan ligarh bas bee a built on hands "cquired by uprooting villages of K~ar~r tehsil, w:, ;ch wore :til PunJabrspeaking.

About Punjab Unive"ity, Haryaoa's move IS more political than academic. It was in 1974 that Mr, Bansi Lal, then Haryana Chief Minister, took out all state colleges out of the jurisdiction of Punjab University in a huff, He was furious when, on arriving late to atteod the annual convocation of the University, he found no one there to receive him. He tagged these colleges to Kurukshetra University, Haryana has also not paid its share of Punjab University' s expenses after 1974, Now Mr, Bhajan Lal promises to pay the "arrea.rs. jf aoy".

It is true that Punjab U niversity will gain another 10,000 students or so. But then University is not a caravan serai where one can check in or check out at will. Theft! are certain rules and regulations. which Haryana .has been violating so far with disdain.

Haryana bas 10 seats in Punjab University senate, in addition to five ex-officio sea,ts, When Haryana disaffiliated its colleges six years ago, ihese 10 seats were frozen. Recently there was a plan to alloc.te tllese frozen seats to college teachers in Punjab and Chandigarb. It may not get back all its previous seats, as the number of colleges affiliated now is too small, But it is bound to get a few of them.

Mr_ Bbajan Lallet the cat out of the bag when he said: "We shall not allow Punjab to take control of ihis Central University"_ But then who asked Haryana to leave it in the first olace'? Now Haryaua is keen to sw~lIow back wbat it had ' vomitted 'out six years ago.

What standards" my country':'men!

2

Rs~

25 . Crore More 'For Punjab's Annual Plan '

the State . has been: allocated industrial production. Intensive Rs 284 crore for the current flood control measures , are also fiscal yea,r.. envisaged to check the menace The Plan outlay has been of floods wbich cause great increased following a meeting - damage ( 0 crops, ' Ther" has been a marginal between the representatives of the Punjab Government and the decrease in the allocation for Planning Commissiop held the agriculture 路sector ' from recently in the Capital.

Rs 39.69 crore to Rs 39.08 Under the revised Plan, the crore, The allocation for ' indUStry allocation for irrigation, flood control and power generation and minerals, transport and has been raised from Rs 12\.84 communications, cooperation crore to Rs 151.31 crore"':an and general services has also been slashed .. C ooperation has been increase of Rs 29'.47 crore.

Tbis has been done ,to give earmarked Rs 5 c.rote against a boost to agricultural and Rs. 5,75 crore in the previous

14th July, 1980 year.

Similarly, the allocation for .transport and communications has been reduced from Rs 22.14 crore to Rs 19.60 crore. There h" been a decrease of Rs 18 lakh in the outlay for general services which bave been sanctioned Rs 2.30 crore as againsi Rs 2.48 crore last year.

On the other hand, there - has been an increase in the allocation for social and com. munity_ services including .health and ' education. This sector has been allocated Rs 54.70 crore against Rs 49,20 crore an increase of Rs 5.50 crore, Economic servjce~ have been allocated Rs 30 lakh compared to Rs 3 lakh in ' the 1979-80 Plan.

The world of electronics and electrical engineering ...

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SIMQES/ SIL/PRIl

TIlE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY

3

14th July, i980

Highly Improper $---=~~----~~~----A THOUGHT FROM GURBANl . . $ $ All agree that the sudden and should not have been even $ Pilgrimage, austerity. mercy, almsgiving and charity $ Bring merit, be it as little as the mustard seed; " f: untimely death of Sanjay Gandbi though he was power behind the is a great blow to Prime Minis- throne converted into a family II But he who bears, believes and cherishes ·tbe Word, If ter Gandhi; sbe · has lost, cremation ground; if Nigambodh.

'1 An inner pilgrimage and cleansing is bis meed, $ in theIndira prime of youth, not only Gbat was not found suitable. $ All virtues is tblne, for I bave none, II a son with a promising future being too common, then the · A Wortbless is prayer without goad acts done..

'1 before him but also, as she family farm near Mehrauli, admitted during the Bhog sbould have been cbosen. How Of -Guru Nanak $ ceremony, a confident, an advi- will tbe government or people .

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Vol. 29 No. 46

14tb July, 1980

Price : 50 Paise

NEED FOR AMITY The so-called "bargain", which was reportedly struck by lathedar lagdev Singh Talwa,ndi with the seven-man ad hoc committee appointed by the Akal Takht several months ago, has reached accomplishment; the lathedar has been elected to Rajya Sabha with 48 first-preference votes whereas he needed only 40 for success, though this number fell five short of the opposition' s total votes in the 117-member assembly.

But for many days before the poll, the lathedar kept everyone on tanterhooks about his designs; Sardar Dayal Singh, who had been appointed by him as office secretary of Shiromani Akali Dal, refused to hand over charge to Sardar Bhan Singh who had b~en authorised for this purpose by the ad hoc committee; this led many to believe that the Jathedar wanted to stick to both the chairs-in the party as well as parliament's upper house. If he came down from his selfish posture, it was because of the threat of 35 Akali MLAs, out of a total of 37, to vote against him if he drd not hand over charge to Sardar Bhan Singh. Faced with ignominous defeat and threatened expUlsion from the party, the lathedar saw wisdom in making a timely retreat.

Ever since the sad demise of Sant Fateh Singh, there has been a constant tug-of-war between organisational and legislative wings of SAD; the main malaise lay in the absence of a towering personality at the helm of affairs. At first lathedar Mohan Singh Tue and then lathedar Talwandi lacked the stature, magnetism and dynamism which the post of SAD presidentship required; at best either was one among equals and at worst almost a non-entity whom fate had catapulted into power. Suffering from such weaknesses and other shortcomings but egged on by the lust for power, lathedar Talwandi, much more than his predecessor, lathedar Tur, indulged in intrigues, stabs-in-the-back, and antics which did him no credit. He made so many acrobatic feats to keep his throne; after making demarches to Akal Takht, he tried to defy its edict when the dt!cision did not go wholly in his favour.

Then he attempted to divide the organisation by dismissing district Akali 1athas and appointing his own conveners If both the organisational and legislative wings had worked in complete unison and with full identity of aims and purpose, the party might have been returned to power in Punjab; certainly, it could invest more seats both in parliament and the state assembly.

If the present adversity has taught the warring factions

ser, in fad an "elder brother". react if Mr. Shastri's son is.

Symapthies of all leap . out to sought to be cremated at Vija~: . her in this bereavement; though . Gbat one day? she did put a brave facade in Also how come that the. tbe beginning with her customary Central PWD built the rostrum· fortitude and equanimity, the on whicb Sanjay's cremation was, strain began to show latter 00, arranged? He was not a Minisand now she feels dejected, ter; he was merely Congress (1)desolate and deserted. We General Secretary. Objections sincerely pray that she regains have been raised also to the three her composure, as so many services chiefs, in tbeir full burning questions need · her uniform, laying wreatbs and decisions and healing touch. saluting Sanjay's dead body; Nontheless, one cannot help Defence Ministry's explanation pointing out a rew things done does not convince people. Many or allowed to happen in connec- states closed their offices for the tion with Sanjay's death. Shanti day and declared mourning for Vana is a national monument . several days merely to please to perpetuate tbe life and work the Prime Minister; tbis race for of a great freedom fighter and sycophancy must be frowned independent India's first Prime upon. Tbe time devoted by AU Minister who had earned world- India Radio and Doordarshan wide renown . for bis statesman- to Sanjay's death and later ship, sagacity and humanism. funeral processjon was out of Many had thougltt, or even proportion to the position. suggested, that tbis halJowed the youngman held in. place he built into something national life. One is led to. like Westminster Abbey in ask tbe million-dollar question: London where all tbe famous Would all this have hap~ned if British Prime Ministers and · Mrs Gandhi had not been in. national heroes are buried. So power at tbe centre? when a separate Vijay Ghat was Tbis is not to pour Salt built in memory of Lal Bahadur Sbastri, many eyebrows were over the wounds of either Mrs raised but the protest was muted Gandhi or the widow or otherbecause of the tragic circum- members of the bereaved family. stances in which he died so soon But there is urgent need to after scoring a decisive victory establish norms and precedents against Pakistan. Now to for such things so th.t our and government cremate Sanjay ill Shanti Vana institutions cannot be upheld on any ground; function in a democratic way. be was only a member of parlia- The chorus in some circles to ment and -Youth Congress (l) draft Mr. Rajiv Gandhi or leader; his position as present Mrs Maneka Gandhi into politics Prime Minister's son could not carry the odour of new dynastic raise him much on the national rule, which, all thought, bad. ladder. A national monument ended with Sanjay's departure.

a lesson to behave well in future, it is good. But if the present respite is just a lull before a new storm, then it . means that our leaders deserve to be shown the exit door, and the sooner it is done, the better for the Sikh community.

The Sikhs feel lost now, as the party, which could work for their advancement in all spheres, is woefully torn from inside; loss of power in Punjab has added to their agony all the more. The voters, majority of them Sikhs and residing in the rural areas, gave the Akalis chances thrice-in 1967, 1969 and 1977-to do something for the state and Punjabis. But each time: they fell far short of the. promises made and expectations aroused. The lathedars did not allow the Akali ministers to function properly and do something worth~ · while. Now that all of them are no IV cooling heels in the· opposition, they would do well to learn from their disaster and restore amity and understanding among themselves. If they continue with their old wayward ways, then they are in for more bad days.

, THE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY

4

14tb Jul y, 1980

Guru Gobind Singh's , New Conception Of God

The Lord Of War By

: Dr. Dbaram Pal Ashta

This is a unique conception of God, whicb only a soldier1>oet' could entertain. God is symbolised in the weapons of war. ; God is the world-Hero. God is tbe Punisher of the wicked and the tyrannical. He helps tbose who take a stand against evil-doers and . <tyrants. Tbis aspect of God has been stressed again and again in praise of the Timeless. To Guru Gobind Singh, God is, as Kipling : ·calls H im, 'The Lord God of Hosts. Guru Gobind Singh calls God as in the beginning of the Akal Ustat ' All steel', 'All death'.' In the Sastra Nam Mala, also, we find him ·invoking God in the language of the weapons of war. " Thou art tbe Arrow, Thou art the Spear Thou art the Hatchet, Thou art Sword.

Thou art tbe Goddess of Death, Thou art the Sword and the Arrow,

Thou art the Symbol 0f Victory, Thou art the World· Hero."

'Thou art Bhala Sethi Bhatha, Katara and Barcbba Thou art Knife and Sword, Tilou art Arms Missiles, Thou art Sbield, Thou art Sword and Bhatha.

Tbou art the Breaker of Kavach Thou appearest in all these forms.

In Lbe beginning of tbe Bacbitra N.tak. he invokes God in the same style: I how with love and devotion to the holy Sword.

Assist me that I may complete this work.

I bow to Him Wbo boldeth Ihe arrow in His hand.

I bow to tbe Fearless One. I bow to the God of gods who is in tbe present and future.

I bow to Ihe Scimitar, the · two edged Sword, tbe Falchion and tbe Dagger.

I bo w to the Holder of the Mace who diffused Jight through the fourteen worlds.

I bo\! to the Arrow, tbe Musket.

I bow to the Sword spotless, fearless and unbreakable; I bow to tbe powerful Mace and Lance, To which nothing is equal.

I bow to the Arrow and the Cannon whicb destroy the enemy. r bow to the Sword and the Rapier which destroy the evil.

I bow to all weapons called sbastr (which are beld).

I bow to all weapons called a star (which are hurled or discbarged) .

The God of War has a Sword in His Banner.

I bow to Him , Who boldeth the Discus, ·Wbo is not made of elements and who is terrible.

I bow to Him of tbe Strong Teeth : I bow to Him Wbo is supremely powerful.

It was Guru Gobind Singh, wbo introduced the Sikh prayer witb an invocation to the Sword. Having first remembered the Sword, meditate on Guru N.nak. It was he who inscribed sword (kbanda) on the Sikhs banner of peace and war in fighting against the Mughal tyranny. [n wpporl of his recourse to sword Guru Gobind Singh expresses his belief that: When all other means have failed, It is righ teous to draw the sword. ·God, who, as Guru Gobind Singh says, adoreth the brave, ,s invoked as Sword by him, to help him to fight for the oppressed: Thou art the Subduer of countries, the Destroyer of the armies of tbe wicked in the battle·field.

Thou greatly adoret h tbe brave.

Guru Gob;nd Singh addresses God as a Sword to :destroy his ~enemies : I bow With love and devotion to holy Sword .

Assist me that I may complete this work.

Dr. Narang's appreciation of Guru's conception of the Sword IS worth quoting: "The following four verses of Gobind Singh forming an in vocation to the Sword are among ·tbe finest of their kind to be met with in any literature of the world: 0, Sword, that conquers countries, That ravages hordes of fools, Tbat wag est deadest wars Bestower of all boons Thy arm, it is infrangible Tby fiame. It is unquenchable Thy light, it is uneclipsible Tb at sbines like a hundred suns Tby refuge I implore, Thou soothest pure-in-!!eart

Thou razest the wicked to naugbt, Hail Creator of tbe world Hail. Saviour of the Globe Upholder O' miThy slave Hail, Thee, hail migbty Sword. " Tbe idea of Martial God is further conveyed by Guru Gobind Singb in war· like names that be gives Him : Chartram Chatri, The best hero (warrior).

Satram Pranasi, Tbe Destroyer of enemies.

Asipan, The Holder of Steel.

AJidhari, Tbe Holder of Sword.

Asidhu}, With sword on His flag.

Kharagketu, With Sword on His Flag.

Sastrapane, The Holder of striking weapons called sastra (i e. Mighty Destroyer).

Astrapane, The Holder of missile weapons called astra Astramane, Tbe Euibodiment of astra (i.e. Mighty Destroyer).

Sarb-Loh, All-Steel.

Bhagauti. Sword.

Banapanam , The Holder of an Arrow.

Bhanurpan, The Holder of a Bow. Kharagdha ri, Tbe Wearer of a Sword.

Sarangdhar, TheHolder of Quiver.

Kharagpanam, The Holder of a Sword.

The Sword is tbe symbol of God Himself. It performs the dual role of preserving the good and destroying tlie bad in tbis world.

The Guru says : Thou bestowest happiness on tbe good, Tbou terrifiest the evil,

Thou scatterest sinners, I seek Thy protection ..

Hail! HaiJ ! to the Creator of world, The saviour of creation my Cherisher, Hail to Thee, 0 Sword.

These lines clearly express tbe Implicit faith which Guru Gobind Singh bad in the martial type of heroism.

The Sword to bim had a divine significance. It was tl;I eant more for self protection than for over-powering others. Guru Gobind Singb acquired so much attachment for the sword tbat bis Jove for this weapon appears like that of reverence which is indistinguishable from worsbip, Tbe sword for him was a symbol of power and self respect. Tbe ills of society could be remedie:! with tbis weapon.

The wicked are destroy,d and peace establisbed only by force of the Brigbt Sword.

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e THE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY Guru Nanak Dev the founder of the reHgion of the Sikhs lent a new dimension to the Bbakti Movement. There were many reasons for that. The first and foremost was the territory where the Bbakti system- of Nanak was evolved, shaped and set in motion. Punjab a~ it served the stage for the drama of the innumerable movements and migrations of the people, could not afford to be rigid in religious matters, beliefs and social behaviour. Brahmanical religion and its social system did make mnch headway in post-Buddhistic period, yet its hold was not as strong as it was in the IndoGangetic Valley or other areas of the country . That was the reason that Bhaktas in those country could areas of the not make Bhakti a distinct movement wbich, shortly after, succumbed to tbe Brahmanical influence or to the totems of the people. Chaitanya's Vaisbnava movement is an ample proof of tbis tendency.

Vaisbnava's Bhakti wbich Chaitanya preacbed became Brabmanical in nature and tone under tbe direction of bis disciples who sbifted the scene of activities to Vi randavan.

So was the fate, more or less with the Bhakti systems of other Bbaktas in different parts of the country. Even Kabirism after the deatb of Kabir fell from its ideal and became only a part of Brahmanical religion.

Guru Nanak's case, however, was different. He worked the programme of Bhakti independently and a'llong the people who because of the historical

5

14th July, 1980

Guru Nanak

tbe state 'of bliss (sabaj). Indeed, tbe Guru empbasised tbe point that ' bonest labour was a necessary qualIDeation for one who sougbt realisation of God. "He wbo eats wbat be bas earned by bis own labour, and gives some to (others)Nanak, be it is wbo knows tbe true way." (Var Sar. Mob, I) By : Prof. Surjit Singb Gandbi In tbese few simple words, imagery have been copiously used crept into tbe original conception - Nanak urges tbe need for bonest by Guru Nanak, thougb tbeir with the result tbat tbe society labour for livelihood, underlines social attitudes and tbeir esoteric degenerated morally and socially. the value of social cooperation and ascetic practices were Guru Nanak's acbievement and points out tbe easiest path rejected as bypocritical postures. is tbis tbat he did not allow of salvation . Many Bbaktas Sufi mystics bad contributed tbeir sucb practices of the afo'resaid including Kabir earned tbeir mite in broadening tbe outlook sects to enter into bis Bh.kti livelihood by taking up tbeir and sharpening tbe edges of programme . He certainly adopted respective caste professions bu' dissent ag.inst tbe ortbodox Sabajya as tbe final goal but tbe none of tbem specifically urged'Brabmanical modes. metbod to acbieve it was respect for a housebolder's life Admittedly, the non-confor- ' different. He enjoined upon his - or declared that it was 'tbe true mist and protestani tone of followers to work for S.b.jya way'. tbe aforesaid cults went a long wbile leading the bousebolder 's By declaring as such, t':le way to 'help N.nak to give ' life.

Ascetic and ' esoteric distinct colour to bis Bhakti practices were nol recommended Guru ushered in a new era In was certainly more to tbe seekers. 011 tbe other the religious history of tbe wbicb was Hitherto, it poignant in its criticism of the band, tbey were advised to country. contemporary society and more follow Nam-Marg. Tbe image generally understood that spiripositive in its empbasis of of Mathuna to say the complete tual matters bad no relation reshaping soci.l and moral pbysical union of m.n and witb tbe worldly affairs, now norms. Other Bbaktas possibly woman was repudiated and in tbey were made as adjuncts of ' could not do so witb so much its place the merging of self the endeavour to soul-bliss. vehemence because of different witb tbe Self was enjoined Guru Nanak, on his own part, took keen interest in matters, situations in wbich they bad to upon. work.

Furthermore, tbe impact of the social, moral and political. His an Tbere was yet anotber point Muslim conquest and the advent 'Babar Vani' represents attitude what the ,Guru wisbed wake wbich made tbe Bbakti of of Islam in India in its Nanak different from that ef added new facet to tbe situation. his followers to develop.

After tbe perusal of the above other Bbaktas. After tbe fall Tbe Islamic faith in tbe oneness of Buddbism, many religious of God and social equality narration, the following inclusion streams sucb as Vajrayana coupled . with tbe proselytising emerge :(I) Bbakti Movement was Buddhism, Sabajyan Buddhism, zeal and political backing sbook Sab.jyan Vaishnavism , Baulism the body, social and religious indigenous in its origin.

(2) In its initial pbases, it was and Nathism emerged. In tbeir thinking in India. Tbe impact respectiv.e periods, tbey played was more deeply felt in the confined to the yearnings of soul circumstances were dynamic tbeir part in tbe lives of tbe Punjab because of geographical for its absorption in tbe supreme and not slow to appreciate the people. In course of time, tbese position,and relatively less rigid lord and it bad got not bing to merits of tbe new programme. sector cults incorporated tantric atmosphere.

Tbe challenge, do witb social, moral, political In spite of the fact that ' beliefs & esoteric practices wbicb beIng more serious, tbe , response uplift of the country. It also could Brahmanical religion was in were certainly debasing in tbeir, was more concrete and correct. not emancipate itself from tbe ascendancy, the protestant and effect in society. Besides tbis, in Guru Nanak's Bbakti was traditional Brahmanical fetters.

(3) Witb Ramanuja and and non-conform ist tradition order to acbieve tbe state of positive in its social-content, did not die altogether. In fact, Mabasukh or Sabaj, the ultimate clear in its spiritualism and Ramananda, it entered into social ' and it was upheld by heterodox objective of all these . sects, they emphatic in the pursuance of tbe modern pbase cults and sects like Kapalikas, pleaded absolute union of the etbical princi"les. Guru Nanak probleins such as caste system Avdbutas, Aghorpantbies and niratama imagined as lbe female like Kabir denounced formalism etc. began to be considered in tbe Nathpantbies and perbaps principle and the bodbicbitta and the extern alia of the religious context of religious reforms.

(4) Bbakti, as preacbed by Sahajyan Buddhists, but their imagined as tbe male principle or life and idol worsbip but unlike ideas and practices were all of Sunyate as the male principle botb Kabir and otber Bhakti Kabir was different from tbat strictly limited witbin tbeir and Karuna as tbe female reformers, he was' opposed to of otber Bhaktas, as for instance, respective circles of men and principle. renunciation and did not regard Kabir substituted Nirguna God women initiated by their respecLogically it follows tbat in life a suffering and a veritable for Sarguna Lord and refused tive Gurus. ordinary bUman and temporal bell. He, on the otber band, to accept' any religious or After tbe political consolida- terms. tbe concrete image of such believed tbat tbe life is all traditional autbority. Witb Kabir, tion of tbe gains of military union would be one of mitbuna, pleasure; tbere is a no pain if ' Bbakti Movement was . an conquest of the Turko-Afghan that is. of complete vbysical one is absorbed in Him. Similarly independent system based on Muslims wben Brabmanism and union of man and woman. tbe world was looked upon by bis soul's experiences. He did Brahmanical society were obliged Indeed, this was the image tbat tbe Guru as tbe dwelling place not regard Bbak\iof any use to stage a retreat, at any rate, the Buddbist Siddacharyas of tbe Almigbty. The Guru if it had no relevance to tbe for the ' time being, these cults beid up not only in tbeir doabs ' witb , all tbe vebemence at bis peoples of the world. B~t be seem to bave come to enjoy a but also in tbe pantbeon of disposal, pronounced that a did neither condemn sanyas nor relatively wider popularity tban gods -.,and goddesses reared lip religion of tbe people was tbe evolve any organisation to. see hithertofore. Tbe non-conformist by tbe Vajrayanaand Sabajyanas need of the times and enjoined bis ideals put into practice. . . but for instance. Natb Panthis did upon bis followers to develop atmospbere could not , Under. .Guru Nal!ak,- BIt~ti influence tbe tbougbt-pattern of not -accept the image, but tbey secular outlook. His .slogan, No Movement embarked . upan . _11' Guru Nanak. Altbongb we ' do too tbougbt in terms of pbysical Hindu, No Musalman, bea_utifully uniqu.e -- course. It ceased, to,b.o not bave any tangible evidence union. epitomised in itself, tbe purpose a complex organism. ' wbicll ', it as to existence of Sabajyan The Vaisbnava Bbaktas did of the Guru. had become as a result of the Buddhism, yet its social comment accept not merely tbe term but As corollary to it, tbe Guru matrix of mystic tradition and and tbeideal of Mahasukh can also tbe mitbuna image, tbe advised tbe people , tbat they confused ideas about Teform. easily be discerned in tbe concept and practice tbat went sbould live a bouseholder's life It \lecame a religio'social imovl>composition of Guru Nanak. alongwith it. Consequent upon because doing 路 so does not ment witb definite 路' pul'pofk,\ .of Similarly Yogic teminology and all tbis, a sort of crude vulgarity bamper anyone from acbievin'g ameliorating .tbe society. .,' .. \

And

Bhakti Movement

THE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY

6

. 14th July, 1980 ·

Guru Nanak, tbe founder of comes true enlighten. ibe Sikh religion, laid great ment. stress on the importance and Ineffable is the ' miraculous efficacy of Nam. The recita· story of the Guru's tion of Nam is considered . a word.

By : Lt. Col. J.S. Gularia (Retd.) great aid for tbe awakening The regular recitation of His of tbe mind and the quicken· Nam helps us to collect, disci.

Mind is every thing.

It is our life. become an inseparable ing of tbe process of self wben it becomes a part. In fact, it bas to become plJne and master our thoughts. realisation.

In great immensity doomed slave of worldly desires. We the very breath of our life. If These tboughts no longer wander of nature, we are insignificant bave to make a conscious effort we really wish to know what and ~o astray. . By doing so, beings. We have to submit to by reciting His to set it is to pray sincerely. we have we nse above the fiuctuations to His. will.

We can have the mind free. Name When it does to let tbe prayer enter ioto us of life. Our anxieties disappear. faitb in ourselves only by become truly ' free, it becomes and tben let it come out of each We bave entered tbe state of imbibing abiding faith in the Sadhana where nothing but one witb the Lord.

When it so Lord's name.

Such is the . un ites with tbe Lord, it attains of the pores of our mortal body the awareness of God prevails. to reach the spirit of God. We importance of His Nam: We are one witb Him. We are a state of absolute peace and have to oling to our creator: Tbrougb f,litb in the Name calm. Tbis can be attained ready to receive tbe Divine Lord, I am the miseltoe (the believer) finds tbe only through ' the recitation of Perfection . . We . become still Whicb has no root, and but we are not solitary. The door of salvation.

His Nam. All sins disappear. cannot grow self becomes co-extensive with We Tbrougb faitb in tbe Name No difference is left.

Or prosper but by tbat tbe universe; Our souls and he makes his kith and kin become one with Him. He is same tree hearts are uplifted to Him and seek the true support (of us. We are Him. Such is the It clings about; so I by it is 3:n experience which 'no charm of His Nam .

God) Tbee. words can tell, no tongue Can Japji, the recitation of His Through faith in the Name . -Robert Herrick speak', but on expedence wbich Name. is communication bet· the Guru is saved, His Nam is the breathing 'only silence can declare'. Sucb Througb the Name he saves ween the temporal and spiritual of our soul. It is our spiritual is tbe magic of His Nam but domains. It · is a petition of food and drink. It helps to his Sikbs. the individual before the creator. clean our hearts from tbe our prayer has to be real: Those wbo have faitb in tbe If made with Real prayer can only be concentration stains of iniquities, aod provides Name, 0 Nanak, do not and yours truth, tne . individual an opening to tbe door of tbe wander begging.

When you ha>:e staked and interests are superseded by a ·mysteries. It helps us to turn gambled yourself away Such is the spiritual value quickening of attention upon towards God througb tbe Aod your essence is pure: the divine qualities and spiritual Guru 's teachings: oftbe Name, -Shabisteri for their own Such is the greatness of the perspectives "The sweet Name is my intrinsic wortb and pre· eminent Tbe recitation of His Nam Indwelling one without recitation, austerity 'and is efficacious. It gives us wis· reality. Prayer is an act wben blemish. self control, an individual communes with dom. It instils in us saintliness.

Tbat only be, wbo bas bis Creator across the frontier It is capable of removing It is the source of courage truly assimilated the of his intellect. It rises from one's sins. and contentment. We know of Name in his beart, knows.

Througb tbe Lord's Naroe tbe Earth and of tbe Power his heart and keeps on rising one's body and mind that supports it. Death holds He who has realised the up and up till tbe individual are calmed, N arne bas got everything. consciousness meets the ray of o~t no fear. The magic of And without effort the man H,s Nam enables us to . escape -(Japji·Pauri XV) the spirit. tbe pains and afllicitioll8 inberent Tbe recilation of His Name in this San sara. The path of alone can save the mankind. pra~er is the path to Divinity.

His Name is the only true It IS tbe way to tbe kingdom support and, therefore, we must of Heaven. It is tho ladder enshrine His name in our wbich provides Ibe connectiog hearts. His name permeates link between earth and beaven. all space.

It is our ego It leads ·us from error to wbich leads us astray and makes truth. It takes us from darkness to us wander aimlessly. We are / light. It transports us from led to believe that God is . sorrow to joy.

Restlessness something far away and outside yields peace to ·peace.

Ignorance us . In fact, He ever dwells in . achieves lhe blissful state is replaced by knowldege. We We contemplate God in His our hearts and tbis realisation go from deatb towards immorta. of divine tranquillity." qualities and we dawn upon us only tbrough tbe . uoiversal lity. It brings to an end all practice of the;Guru'slword wbich realise tbat we are a part Of b is When one acbieves this leads to the door of salva· manifestation. We are on the state of divine tranquillity, life our- sorrows and sins: tbresbold of Eternal Trutb. fiows on without any worry, By bearing tbe word tioo.

Me.n achieve wisdom, saint~ passion. In this Japji was composed by Guru Tbe progress of tbe buman anxiety or hness, courage and coostate,. we have Nanak. It is meant to be recited spirit through regular recitation blissful tentment. daily.

It offers a spiritual of His Nam is phenomenal. It neither attraction nor repulsion By hearing the word is aptly described by Scheron towards worldly objects. We remedy f(lr all our ills. It is a eartb, Men learn of tbe carryon the will of God. higbly inspired verse and tbe in ' Perspectives Spirituelles' . tbe power tbat support it, "Man prays, and ' prays There is no attachment whatso· thoughts expressed therein are and tbe firmamen t. 'of eternal value and significance. fashions man . The saint has ever. All tbe time, tbe vision By hearing tbe word Its recitation is useful in more himself become .prayer, the of God is planted in our Men learn of tbe upper and meeting place of Earth and mind.

Tbis union is the price. tban one way. It enables us netber regions of islands to enjoy commllnion witb God. Heaven ; he thus contains the less attributes of God Love, and continents universe fearl.ssness and trutb .. Tbrougb It belps us to realise tbe trutb Universe, and tbe By hearing tbe word and' tbereby mak~ our life prays witb him . He is everywhere the recitatioo of His Nam, we Man conquers tbe fear of more purposeful, peaceful and where nature prays, and he go into a meditative mood and death and the elements contented. We realise our reaJ prays with and in her: in the are well set on the road to o Nanak, the ' word hath selves:- Tbe recitation of Japji peaks which touch the void realisation of God . This is tbe sucb . magic for the removes .the delusions ,from our and eternity, in a fiower which beauty and magic of recitation Worshippers, minds and sets us on tbe road scatters its petals. or in the of His Nam : Those tbat bear, death do .to discover tbe eternal mind· lost song of a bird. Whosoever not fear, Guru's Listening to tbe . tbe creator of tbe universe. has lived in prayer has not lived Their sorrows end and sins is concentra~ seng, mind The secret is resolved. We know in vain." disappear. ted, For proper, good and gracious that tbe enlightened mind is the From such concentration -Japji-Pauri VIII living, prayer has to cnter into ,extension df the Divin.e Mind.

The Power of'Nam'

Japji, the recitation of His Name, is communication between the temporal and spiritual domains. It is a petition of the individual before the creator.

7

'THE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY

Those who are inclined to beleive that to enforce prohibition legally is ultra vires of the constitution because it is violative of the basic human rights must also know that national health is and must be the primary and fundamental concern of any truly national government.

ALCOHOLISM Age-Old Citadel Of Social Evil By

: Sardar Amrik Singh Barhok

Alcoholism which seems to have originated as a pastime or popular sport of the ancient gods and goddesses (and this is unmistakably demonstrated by mythological history of the world) seems to have fallen in divine esteem and sought patronage among both classes and masses. Drinking as a part of daily diet in cold countries or climes, in fashionable world of haute cuisine, under medical advice, or for what is called (in rural, popular parlance) "a change of taste" is understandable and even excusable, but making a habit of it cannot be appreciated from any anglehuman, social and moral. While the rich can afford the luxury of expensive, exotic ddnks, it is the poor who have to pay 'dearly' for the cheap country liquor they have, per force, to patronise.

The 'killer' driDk is ruining hundreds aDd thousands of families fiDancially and wrecking an equal Dumber of marriages every year in all corners of tbe couDtry. Tbe tragedy assumes borrible proportions in cases wbere more than one member of a family (including tbe womeDfolk) take to driDkiDg as a compulsive habit.

Tbe evil (of driDking) bas been likened to a hydra-beaded monster in as mucb as the aberratioD does not go alone; it Deeds company and a proper backdrop. 'Singing', 'dancing' and 'merry-makiDg' witb acceDt on lasciviollsness and licentiousness are its usual companions or cousin sisters.

"How come, when drinking is deadly injurious witb iDevitable, disastrous after-effects, it is still widely popular" is a questioD whicb many a reader may be tempted to ask iD sbeer bewilderment. If you ask anv votary of tbe wine as to wby be drinks, the stock answer will be: "It induces a sort of euphoria, transporting you to tbe proverbial 'Seventh Heaven' of bappiness and bliss". "You bave to taste it to experience its chills or thrills" . You would be told blandly. But how tbe devotees of Dionysus feel on their return journey from the 'abode of gods' they seldom veDture or feel inclined . to cODfide obviously because by tbe time tbey wake up to the reality tbey have completely forgotten what they saw or experienced in the Elysium.

One eDthusiastic devotee of the drink joyfully claims; "It slows ageiDg, streng-'

14th July, 1980

thens youth, helps digestion, banishes melancholy, lightens the heart, clears tbe head, aDd quickens the spirits". "These drinks keep and preserve the head from wbirling, the eyes from dazzling, the tongue J from lisping. tbe mouth from snaffling, the teeth from chatteriDg, the throat from rattling. the stomach from wambling, the veins from crumbling, the bones from aching, and the sorrow from soaking", he goes on to drive the point borne. Nothing, it would be conceded, has done more to popularise the evil than our ~o-called popular media.

Newspapers and magazines, commercial publicity, films and television all tend to glamorise drinking aDd drinkers in unmistakable terms giving the viewers and readers an impression that alcoholism is the other name for social sophistication-a sort of status symbol. What effect a film scene like tbe one showing the bero balding proudly a peg in his one hand and a dame in

his arms can have on our impressionable youth-boys and girls, is something about which few seem to be worried or concerned. Drinking has become an integral and indispensable paft of our social milieu . . While the poor drink to celebrate an important occasioD (tbe 'payday' is also an important occasion for many) for the rich any occasion or excuse is a good enough reason for a swirl or whirl round the bottle.

It was late Mr. Churchill wbo once said: "I got more out of drinking than drinking got out of me". But let us not forget that all of us are not Churchills.

Many of · the drinkers seem to driDk Dot for 'getting' bnt for 'forgetting' what hauDts them constantly. Popular sayings like "Wine and wenches empty men's purses", "Wine is in, wit is out" ,- and "Truth comes out of wine" cannot be Ignored or lost sight of.

There are some who tell us smugly that the pleasure of

/I(JIf'lfJ ~f)tJP

does not just cleGn skin-it has a lac'terilal antifungal prOptBrtilBs

driDking is akin to that of music, and that inspite of its being ephemeral, a good wine lingers in the memory like a tune.

"Just as tbere is a tune which will please almost everybody, somewhere in the ra<lge of drinks or wines there is one for almost every palate", these enthusiasts often tend to argue.

Some even refer to saturnalian and baccbanalian festivals and revelries associated with the Roman gods Saturn and Baachus to buttress their defence for drinking . The devotees of Dionysus claim that but for the intoxicating drink, Omar Khayyam could and would not have enthralled us with his drink-drenched, musky Rubaiyats which we all so gleefully relish, All said and done, the fact . remains that alcoholism has drained more blood, soldmore houses, plunged more people into penury and bankruptcy, defiled more reason, wrecked more manhood, dishonoured . more womanhood, broken more hearts, driven more to suicide, and dug more graves than any other scourage known to mankind. Tbose who are iDclined to believe that to enforce prohibition legally is ultra vires of the Constitution because it is violative of the basic human rights must also know tbat national bealth is and must be the primary and fundameDtal concern of any truly national government. A wit has likened an inveterate drinker to one who digs his own grave witb his own mouth in his OWD lifetime.

Paradoxically eDough, and funnilY too, thougb alcoholic driDks are deadly harmful, the-se are drunk to the health of one's near and dear ones.

Bhai Hari Singh Shergill Bereaved

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Shrimati Amar Kaur wife of Bhai Hari Singh Shergi1l died' at her residence in Born bay on· July I, 1980.

Shrimati Amar KauT was a pious lady of_ religionsmind. Sbe was very ' soft-spoken and loveable personality. . . ' , . . The Bhog . of Sabej Path and Kirtan in this connection,. was . held at Khalsa College aD Sunday tbe 13tb July, 1980, . which ' wiis largely attended. " The .,cSpokesman". its heart· felt' condolaDces .;1;0 .Bl;ai Hari Singh Shergill " 'iD ~ 'his bereavemenF, May Sat Gurj! graDt peaCe to .the depatte!! ;So:~l. ~

of(er.s . .

.

IDLlMIII'

fHE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY

8

Minority Character Of Punjab And Sind Bank Should Be Maintained

14th July,

19~

contribution in the national economic development is much more.

Will the minority character of tbis bank be maintained after na tionalisation or not?

Dr. Rajinder Kaur 'Refutes Charges Against Its Chairman In Rajya Sabha They talk of conipetition.

One who holds the scales, shall There is great reseotmeot among Sikhs against nationalisatioo outside the state because the of Puojab and Sind Bank which was set up by them to serve the Reserve Bank of India Rules are always weigh in his favour. The community. During a debate io Rajya Sabha, Mr Kalyan Roy such. But the loans are never Punjab National Bank was also a bank of Punjab but the numof CPI supported the nationalisation and levelled some charges advanced to rich people. ber of Sikh employees there was against the Bank Chairman Dr Inderjit Singh. Dr RaJlnder Kaur.

All those running tallis and negligible. When Punjab and daughter of Master Tara Singh refuted these allegati~ns . and asked buses in Delhi have got loans Sind Bank was opened, those that either the minority character of the bank be mamtamed or the from Punjah. We have no big very Sikhs helped it develop S;khs be allowed to start a new baok. This is a summary of her industry in Punjab , Mr. Shahi rapidly. At the time of partispeech in Rajya Sabba on June 30, last. ' - Editor was telling how the agricultural tion, 40% of the army officers banks in villages misappropriate I am not an economist that has he committed by sanctioning money in tbe purchase of were Sikbs but now their number has gone down to 7 or 8%. It I could tell to what extent the loan to his son? His son has pumping sets etc. for the weaker section is benefited by not refused to repay tbe loan. farmeis. But I can say with will have an adverse effect on nationalisation . But One thing r would certainly admit that confidence tbat in the Punjab the economy of Punjab. If you is quite clear tbat corruption they do not strictly conform to and Sind Bank not a single such have taken over the bank, please and inefficiency increase in the rules while giving loans. incident bas ever taken place. maintain its minority character. whatever is nationalised. Ever When D.T.C. had allowed the In fact, no manager can dare Otherwise, we may be permitted buses, do so because any person may to open another bank. We will since transport was nationalised, operation of private with the corruption has increased in it.

40% of them went to Sikhs approach the chairman any time run the new bank present chairman, who is alleged because the Punjab and Sind Moreover, the private sector and lodge a complaint. to be corrupt, and bring It to the undertakings give more profits Bank gave them loan immeWhat is the reason that time level of your nationalised banks. diately.

I asked them that there but the government-run public and again the Chairman has been As an alternative, we have a seclor undertakings sbow less was a rule that the operator made the custodian 7 movement that if we are not of the bus must invest 25% of profits. When rules and priorities The bank has been run by given an opportunity of econohave been framed according to bis own. They said that in such which both tho private sector a case a person, who cannot rich people but still today the mic development in India, we banks and public sector banks invest 25%, will not be able to entire Sikh community feels shall open a baok with its base in Switzerland and its branches function and there is very healthy run a bus. We know that the involved. He rose from LA.S. competition between the two, loan will be repaid . Maybe in Officer of the allied services and all over tbe world. The result will not from a clerk, as just now be that tbe money which Indians ' even then they have been some cases loans are not repaid.

This is the basic character alleged, and increased the number send to our country from nationalised. of the Punjab and Sind Bank of the branches of the bank from abroad, will be invested ,outside One tbing that pincbes me that religiou~ ceremonies are 14 to 500. T he Economic Times India and money will also 'flow most is that among them is a performed in ' the morning at has reported that there has been out of the country. Thus, either minority bank whicb is called its headquarters before the day's maximum development in the a new bank may be given or the a bank of the Sikhs and it is business is started . Ninety Punjab and Sind Bank. How minority character of Punjab the Punjab and Sind Bank. The percent of the deposits in the this could be possible if the and Sind Bank may be mainentire corruption and dishonesty bank come from the Sikhs in chairman of the bank were tained. If the chairman had has been sighted either in its Punjab. -It has its branches ' corrupt and the management of been dishonest, the Sikhs would Chairman lnderjit Singh or in its in every historic Gurdwara and other nationalised banks were not have felt so much conceroed management while all other every Gurdwara deposits its honest? over it. I have never benefited nationalised banks appear above- money in the Punjab and Sind The Congress government, j from this bank but my brethren board to them. I can well Bank. Its employees are Sikhs, which is in power again, is the 1 and sisters have. When we enter understand the opposition by and the benefits are also enjoyed supporter of the minorities. This 1 the bank, we feel quite at home.

Shri Kalyan Roy because the by the Sikhs. But only 15% or bank belongs to a minority wbo : We have no difficulty ,either Punjab and Sind Bank has been 16% of the advance is given in forms one percent of the Indian depositing or in withdrawing opened for the progress and Punjab; the rest being given population. Inspite of this, their \ money. economic development of Punjab, particularly the Sikhs. It bas its branches in every main village of Punjab, which have their impact on their development.

Sardar Inderjit Singh had made a relig ious commitment that no Sikh lacking in integrity could find a job in the bank.

For lustrous growth of my liair That is why tbe communists could not lay their roots in I use Keo-Karpin every day. , Punjab among the Sikhs. Later Gently perfumed, non-sticky , on, some communist Sikbs got is so light ......

Keo-Karpin infillerated . into the bank yet so nourishing! management. When the Punjab and Sind Bank was nationalised, they got" their ' beards shaved ,~nd danced with joy because they thougbt a: good act had been 'performed.

The charge that has been levelled is that the Chairman HAIR OIL Of Punjab and Sind Bank advanced a loan to his son .

Ex.cuse ' me, - there are many 'politicians who have distributed 'election tickets to tbeir wives 'lind children and got them eiected ~ to "parliament or state assemblies. Then what offence

Nourishment in every drop I

Keo-

Km,m

J

THE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY

Major Industrialisation Plan For Punjab A major industrialisation plan envisaging setting up of paller' and su"ar uaits aad textIle macbin.;'ry industries, establishment of nucleus units in backward districts, and preparatioa of district industries techooeconomic programmes for Punjab was fiaalised here last week by the industry ministry.

Besides, the centre would also belo tbe state govemment to get 'soft loans to meet the gigantic industrialisation plan and modernisation of the existlOg industries in the state.

The plan, first in tbe series, which is intended to be chalked out by the industry ministry for the various states in the country, was finalised at a marathon meeting lasting about four hours called by the industry minister, Dr. Charanjit Chanana. Tbe Punjab delegation at the meetmg, led by the cbief minister, Darbara Singb, included aJI secretaries concerned with economic and industrial departments of the state.

Dr. Chanana laid considerable empbasis on tbe . immediate launcbing of a modermsatlon programme, witb particular reference to the small-scale engmeenng sector, promotion of nucleus units, which would generate bigher employment througb ancillary units and facilitate a white revolution in tbe state.

While industrialisation plans for each of the districts would be worked out, immediate attention would be given to the backward districts for which detailed techno-economic surveys would be carried out forthwith.

Dr. Chanana asked tbe state government to help modernise cycle dod sewing machine industries in the state, so as to enable to produce quality products at competitive prices.

For the purpose of establishing paper manufacturing units, he asked tbe state government to identify locations, after which the necessary techno·economlc feasibility reports would be prepared .

Dr. Chanana said that the resources based for paper industry should be enriched and utilised in such a way tbat the existing mills did ilOt starve of raw materials.

Regarding sugar, the minister suggested that special plants should be established in the state, which made optimal use of energy alternative to bagasse.

Tbe ministry was interested in the efficient recycling of waste including bagasse and molasses.

He asked tbe state govern· ment that while the existing

. 14th July, 1980

9

textile machinery should be modernised a plan for setting u? assembling and marketing u llits for texile macbinery should b, drawn up.

He suggested a growth target of milk processing in the state at 10 per ceat over tbe existing level. For this purpose, the stute government must immediately start the promotion of cattle farms botb. O.n quantitative and qualitative fronts. and launch a campaign.

Tb.e min ister assured the state goveroment of meeting tbeir full requirement of cement and steel in order to belp it achieve rapid industrialisation at the shortest possible time.

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Letters TOJ"'{he Editor Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak .Committee Sir, Early this year, 1 was Having heard nothing from asked by a certain organization the SGPC Office for months, to write for them a short ·biogra- I visited their offices at Amritsar phy of late . Sardar Lachhman on 20th May 80, only to find Singh Gill .

Besides other to my disappointment that the sources tapped for tbe purpose, SGPC offices were having ail I also wrote to the S.G P.C. on unscheduled holiday, witbout 24th Ian 80 to find out as to any public notification to tbe when did he join the Shromani . effect • . (This unthoughtful action Akali ·Dal, and what offices on the part of the SGPC must were held by him in both the have caused inconvenience to S.G.P.C. and the S.A .D. The many others like me) . By chance, Secretary, S.G.P.C., vide his I met the Secretary of the in their reception letter date 30th Jau 80 replied SGPC that they would be too pleased office, and he promised to send the necessary me the information to ·send· me within two days. Having received no· information soon . communication from the Secretary, I wrote to the President, SGPC, who also has not bothered to do any thing about jt.

Perhaps he is husy in securing his own chair!

SGPC, the premier Sikh religious organisatioD, is a public setup; it should not be run as private concern as it appears to be the case. Unfortunately, tbe organisation appears to have fallen into inefficient hands. If its officials cannot maintain even such records whicb could be readily available when required, how can they be expected to carry out the lofty ideals-the propagation of Sikh religion and betterment of the Sikhs .

-Lt. Col. Gulcharan Singh lullundur

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for reducing petrol consumption the Government of Ind.. is thinking seriously to make S-day week. But I am afraid it will not bring the desired results It would not ease traffic congestion in the present over. crowded public transport system.

Increased working hours will consume more electricity per day whicb would cancel out what is saved on working day-time Saturday.

Looking to our climate increased working . hours . to compensate Saturday working would increase working fatigue.

Two holidays together in a · week will make many go on drives for week·ends .

For av·erage working class longer week-ends would increase expenses of entertainment.

In a more practic.al way the staggering of office hours would , be more 'welcome and suitable to our conditions which would · '. not only ease the pu.bli.c:tra!lsport ... system but '· improve · ptivate... · motori ng and indirectly .red·uce.· ;" petrol and electricity.~9DSII.riiptloii ; :. : -:-'NiranjaJ;i :M ..~eAf~ ..: Bombay, .,.. . , , ... . ,

THE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY

10

14th July, 198&

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OUR HARYANA NEWSLETTER

Harjit Singh Political Forces

By

Uncertainty in tbe Haryana politics continues. 路 Although the official clrcles continue to deny the possibility of dIssolution of Haryana Assembly in the near future yet all political parties are getting ready for the coming elections. The results of tbe midterm poll in the adjoining states of Punjab, u.P. and Rajasthan have not discouraged the opposition parties in Haryana. Lok Dal in Haryana enjoys the same position in this state which the Akalis enjoy in Punjab. It has a mass base in the Jat peasantry and has a sentimental appeal on the basis of caste and community.

It has a undisputed political leader in Chaudhary Dcvi Lal, wbo has a mass following and vast political experience. He is shrewd politician and is past. master in winning over his adversaries in hour of need.

Lok Dal leadership is showing signs of change of outlook. It has realised that it cannot win by alienating the urbanites and has started accommodating urbanites in its fold. Bhartiya Janta Party, which still enjoys support of trading community is also adjusting itself to new realities.

WISdom seems to have dawned on its leadership and it has realised that it cannot face the Congress challenge all alone even in urban areas. It has, therefore, decided to join hands with the Lok Dal. A new re-alignment of political forces in the state is taking shape.

All opposition parties have rallied round Ch. Devi Lal and admitted his leadership at State level. Efforts are afoot to form an alternative at National level nnder the leadership of Shri H.N. Bahuguna.

Much wi\!, however, depend on the result of the Rajya Sahha election schedule for 11 th July.

Cbaudhary Bhajan La! plans to win hoth the seats. although present strength of the Congress party in the State legislature permits it sure victory only at one seat. Cbaudhary Bhajan Lal hopes to win ,?ver a few M.L.A.'s from the opposition and with that end in view he wanted Chaudhary M ukhtiar Singh Malik, erstwhile president of Jan Sangh i\1 the State, to be fielded as second Congress candidate.

But this time it may be difficult to win over M.L.A's from the opposition rank when fresh elections are in sight and defectors may not be accommodated by the Congress while the tikets.

Sushil allotting Mohunte, former Advocate General, who has been adopted as a joint opposition candidate is a soft spoken, shrewd and tactful person and is sure to carry with him votes from all shades of opinion. The only possible apparent defection from opposition rank is expected from

:

AGo-Ahead Young Farmer

Sardar Gurmit Singb, Advocate, Sirsa Sardar Harjit Singh of village the group led by Mrs. Chandra- although Bishnoi by caste is watj who is- very close to essentially a shrewd business Thanewal in Gurdaspur District, Brigadier Ran Singh who ho< man. His decision to lease Qut CUltivating 23 acres of land, is entrepreneurs four a regular visitor to the Farm recetitly joined th, Congress (I). to private of Haryana's sick public sector Advisory Office and Regional But she may not be able to cut much ice and therefore may industrial units may not be liked Research Station of PAU Univerdecide to wait and see for the by those who want to bring sity, Gurdaspur. He often brings time being instead of breaking socialism through extension of very critical 0 bservations to the away from tbe Lok Dal. She public sector but it is essentially notice of the specialists and is 'a staunch opponent of a wise step.

He has made discusses tbe same with them. important policy announcement He attends crop production Chaudhary Bansi Lal and the selection of Chaudhary Sultan that state government's policy schools on wheat, paddy and Singh, a lieutenant of Chaudhary now was to encourage "assisted pulses every year. He also takes Bansi Lal as Congress candidate sector" by investment u-pto a keen interest in the adaptive for Raiya Sabha have revived 20 per cent and having one or research trials laid out by the hopes of Chaudhary Bansi La!'s two directors on the hoard of University. He frankly admits fe-emergence on the state's directors of the,e units. The four that his success in farming can politiC:1i scene.

Inclusion of units to be leased out are Haryana be attributed to the rich knowChaudhery Dalbir Singh in the Concast (formerly Haryana ledge which he has received from Central Ministry has also Polystee!)

Hissar.

Haryana the experts. strengthened this hope as Matches Ltd. and Haryana He has mechanised his farm.

Chaudhary Dalbir Singh was Tanneries at Jind and Haryana He owns a 35 h.p. tractor and appointed President of the State Televisions at Faridabad. These a 7 t h.p. electric.operated Congress (I) earlier at the are sick units-and the government tubewell. He also receives cana]. instance- of Bansi Lal group. hitherto has been suffering loss water for 20 hours a week.

However, Congress High of crores of rupees in the name Cropping Pattern Command has refused to adopt of patronising public sector.

Paddy-wheat is the main.

Chaudhary Mukhtiar Singh However, this new economic Malik as its candidate and policy may face some resistance rotation at his farm. He generally instead Chau lhary Prabhu Singh, f(om the centre, after some puts 15 acres ofland under this acres rotation and about 6 t a Harijan has been selected as time. second Congress nominee for Temporary and unemployed . under sugarcane. He puts tbe Rajya Sabha. This is a serious teachers in Haryana are carrying remaining land under fodder set back to Chaudhary Bhajan on agitation in the State. They crops and some vegetables and Lal and a booster for Chaudhary sat in Dharnabefore the Chief summer pulses to meet his own Bansi Lal with this chances of Minister's residence and organised requjrements.

Congress winning the second rallies in support of their He generally harvests good seat have further receded, demands which include regulari- crops. During 1978-79 he Chaudhary Bhajan 1 al is, how- sation of the services of the obtained a yield 25.6 and 27 ever, a master taCtician. He is teachers who have served all quintals per acre Of PR 106 and sure to win over about 5/6 adhoc basis and giving adhoc Jaya respectively. In case of opposition M.L.A.'s during the employment to those teachers wheat his average yield from voting to show to the High who are unemployed. Chaudhary 15 acres was 14 quintals per Command his utility. He will Bhajan Lal has promised to give acre. He mainly grows Sanalika thereby also impress that had a sympathetic consideration to variety of wheat which he thinks his suggestion io adopt Mukhtiar their demands' hut something is the best variety for Gurdaspur Singh been accepted Congress concrete must he done im- . District. His sugarcane yield is would have surely won the mediately to satisfy this class as about 350 quintal of cane per acre_ second seat as wei!. the new academic session is Chemical Weed Control Chaudhary Bhajan Lal, about to begin.

He believes that introduction of high yielding varieties of wheat and paddy is the first and the recent introduction of chemical weed control in paddy and wheat as the second breakthrough in the production of these crops.

路Fertilizer Application He is very critical about the application of fertilizer. He always applies them on soil test basis. He advocates that farmers should not only make use of chemical fertilizers but they should supplement their .use with farmyard manure or green manure. He applies farmyard manure to every field after 3 or 4 years.

Increasing Input Cost He is all praise for the government introducing flat rate of electricity for tuhewells and increasing sugarcane prices. But still the continuously increasing prices of agricultural inputs are a constant worry to him.

(C ourtesy - ' 'Progressive Farming"

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lIundred-Fold Increase In Tomato Production In Punjab Within tbe last four or five years Punjab bas become a big exporter of tomatoes according to Dr. K. Kirpal Singh, Director, Food Technology, Processing and Marketing, Punjab Agricultural University. While the increase in wheat production during tbe last fifteen years may have been four-fold, in tomatoes it has literally been a hundred-fold, he says.

Truckloads are sent from Punjab to Bomb.ay not only by middlemen but also by farmers themselves. The distance of 2000 kms is covered in 60 hours.

The cost of transportation during tbis season ranges from Rs. 3000 to Rs. 3200 for eacb truck, The truck driver making it in less time is given a bonus of Rs. 200 in addition to fare of Rs. 3000.

In spite of this there is a glut during tbe peak season in the market and the fruit is sold cheap. Processing into tomato juice tomato paste, tomato ketchup, and tomato sauce can help. The Directorate of Food Technology, Processing and Marketing at the PAU has developed the requisite technology which is being tried and demonstrated on farms. Since tomato fruit contains more than 90 per ceDt of water, the best way to process this fruit is (0 reduce its moisture content and turn it into paste or sallce. This will cut down the trans port costs. t

Tomato like potato, originated in the South America. Its bright colour attracted the early discoverers and explorers. Its excellent edible quality led to its popularity all over tbe world. It js now grown in all the five . continents.

ID America, its home is California where more than 2 lakh acres of tomatoes are Huge caDneries barvested. process this fruit into . concentrated juice form to be converted later iDto products like juice, paste, soup, ketchup etc.

The chemical compositioD of tomato varies with variety .. and stage of maturity. The pulp constitutes 85.4 per cent (average) of the wbole fruit and contains 6 to 7 per ceDt total solids . . Tomato also contains thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid, pantothemic acid, biotin, vitamin K and inbibitols wbicb are related' to vitamin E. Ripe tomatoes contain glucose and fructose as the principal sugars with small amounts of ·sucrose.

In India the tomato was first introduced towards the end

i'ilth 'JtflY. 1.980

' o' _

What Is New Chillies

Children and some grownups also, says Dr Hundal, are reluctant to eat bot chillies.

This is not good for tbem in a . country like IDdia because cbillies of 19th century. Now It covers' are the cheapest source of vitamin over one Jakh acre.s :' :'·wt~""i;:·' ..Ten chillies give enough productloo of more tl!.an c5 d,akb , vjtamin C ·for one day, It ~lso tonnes. The area under . new bas :vitamin A and iron. Four of varieties wbicb are bigh yield,ing; . the c01lecti011s from France wbich good for processiDg and can· are ·Calle.d MY-2, MY-3, MY-S ~lthstand lon~ dlsta.Dce · traDsport aDd MY-12 and one collection IS fa3t expandlDg. from Hungary Collosca EA-IS 'PuDjab Chbauhara', a variety ··taste .sweet. ODe of the types released four years back by the MY-S (Malgache Yellow-S) also Punjab Agricultural UDiversity, serves as aD ornamental plant.

Ludhiana covers the maximuQ1 Plants are dwarf i.e. oDly 18 Col area not oDly in Punjab but high aDd can be planted in also iD ·the other adjoiDing earthen pots like flowers. A States. TblS variety is a dwarf similar ornamental type called varietyC with a thick stout stem "Holiday Time' developed at and luxuriant and dense foliage tbe University of Connecticut, which provides cover to the USA won ~n a ward this.year as fru it from the sun and reduces · a flower. Its seed is beiDg sun-burnt injury. It was given produced by Pan-American Seed this name because it resembles Company. the date fruit commonly u sed A major cbaracteristic of all at Punjabi betrotbals. It has these collectioDs is that they got fewer seeds thaD other fruit later. The fruiting period varieties which is very much in of these new . comers is also demand. One quintal' of fruit lODger. gives only 100 gms of seed. One For salad the variety MY-S acre can give 320 quintals of promises to be good because tomatoes. its fruit is early. Witb its bright One knows chillies . that are colour and shapely looks it can bitler to eat, and when ripe, brigbten up the table. For pickles red in colour. But at Punjab MY-9 is good because its cbillies these are thick and long .

Agricultural University can actually be sweet in taste IDtroduced into India by tbe anJ yellow in colour. Dr J .S. Portuguese 300 years ago, it now Hundal, Associate Professo, 'earns nearly R s: 3 crores in of Vegetables at the Punjab exports mainly to Sri LaDka. is Chilli is believed to have Agricultural - University workin g on a collection of originated in Peru in Soutb 12 types originally obtained from America where the Portuguese Fran ce four years back. Some came across it when they more varieties bave been obtained conquered that country in the from Hungary. Like flowers the 16tb century.

In India fru it i.e. chillies face upward Maharasbtra, Tamil Nadu and instead of downward as chillies . Andhra are the chief producers; Tn Punjab the total area is do normally.

-' CLEANS FAST MADE TO LAST '

i,~INU5 ;. ' ;} ~ INDUSTRIAL BRUSHES

"\.,

....

around . ten thousand bectares maiDly in Patiala aDd Sangrur districts. The varieties are also called Sirhindi, Sanauri' aDd Rajpura wbich are names of places in Patiala district. It canDot flourISh iD tbe beavier soils of areiis like Gurdaspur because sucb ,soils are deficieDt iD oxygon.

For tbe 'tradition local crop seedlings are transplanted in the field from the middle of June to the middle of July as in ' tbe case of rice. The transplanting of tbe spriDg crop is done io tbe s.cODd balf of february io tbe first balf of Marcb. One and a balf kilogram . of seed produces sufficient plants ' for ooe bectare.

The nursery beds sbould be surrounded by a band of BHC to keep away ants and other iDsects. Tbick and stocky plants bear traDsplanting sbock better than tbin and spindly ones.

Transplaoting sbould be daDe in tbe eveniDg. , The wbole of pbospborus (350 kgs per hectare) aDd potash (SO kgs) and half of nitrogeo (300 kgs) should be applied before transplanting. Tbe otber half is applied one and two after transplantiDg . . months Fertiliser should not come in · contact with tbe plants wbicb will kill them or adversely affect tbeir growth.

"Mansrovar" Silver Jubilee All IDdia. Sikh CouDcil 'Mansrovar' Silver Jubilee CelebratioDS were beld at Chelmsford Club, New Delhi, last week, UDder the presideDtship . of Sardar HarbaDs Singh; General Secretary, Bbai Vir Singh Sahitya SadaD. " The function by Dr. was inaugurated fnderjit Singb, Custodian Punjab and Siod BaDk. The former Governor of Tamil Nadu,.

Sardar Ujj al SlOgh released lhe SIlver Jubilee issue of 'Mansrovar' and preseDted tbe first copy to Dr. ' speakers Inderjit Singh. The wbicb included Sardar ,Gurmit Singh Advocate,. Sardar Gurdi! ~iogb Jolly, Sardar Madan Singh Nayyar, Sardar Kartar Singb Suri, Advocate, Dr. Maheep Singh, Sardar JaswaDt Singb Kochhar ~nd otbers·'bad 'all praise for tbe .. selfless . ' .ervice reDdered' by Sardar Man Singb in.cbatp'PioO:IDg the cause of Sikb religion and bistory tbrough the columDs of tbe Weekly.

Sardar Sucba Singh ADand . thaDked tbe audience nd -the · function came to a close - wi·th sumptuous' tea. .Copies . of, the Silver jubilee issue of 'Mansiova.' were distributed free to the aud"ienc~ ':- : ,- -'~ ~ -'-:Pianl Singb, M.~. '

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Regd. No. D-(C)-85

THE "SPOKESMAN" WEEKLY

14th July. 1980

Let the English have our chips. /

. ' The Il1OOâ&#x201A;ŹY is ;oHy Q09d. And you have )'OUf very own courier service that's qukk Md &afe.

Airfreight. It really taMs the worry out of such delicate trl!onS8Ctions.

Our schedule: two aJ-<:argo services to the U.K. via ~Ufope. One each Europe and Japan. All our .to U.S.A., -

regular passenger flights also carry cargo and cover 41 cities around the world. And if there's some place we don't go to, we'll arrange for your cargo to get there.

Get in touch with us and you can start counting your chips.

Printed at Everest Press, 4, Chamelian Road, Delhi-llOO06 & published by Charanjit Singh, from 6-Nortbend Complex, R.K. Ashram Marg, New Delhi-I. Editor: Gbanisham Singh, Phone: 344676, Residence: 621717.