Word 'Sikh' to be included in HP revenue records: CM

Shimla, Oct 12 (UNI) The Himachal Pradesh government is examining the possibility of granting 'certification' to the Sikh community in the revenue records.

'' The government will be considering the demand of the community to get the word 'Sikh' entered against their revenue entries'', Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal said while addressing a function organised in connection with the 'Guruta Gaddi' celebrations at the Ridge Maidan here today.

In this context he pointed out that the state government had provided 'certification' to the Dogra community, whose members were ousted from sites selected for hydro power projects.

On the occassion Mr Dhumal also announced that the state government was committed to starting Punjabi as an optional subject in 100 educational institutions by the end of the current financial year.

The Chief Minister paid rich tributes to the Sikh community and recalled their sacrifices.

Mr Virbhadra Singh, former Chief Minister, also addressed the gathering.

Mr Ravail Singh, President, Mr Guru Singh Sabha, Shimla, welcomed the Chief Minister and thanked him for all the cooperation extended by the state government for organising the historic event.

UNI XC HS BP AKJ RK1813