16 september 2024 : The “Pind Bachao, Punjab Bachao” initiative is traveling through various villages to advocate for a people-centered approach to rural development, focusing on strengthening gram sabhas and panchayati raj institutions.
Giani Kewal Singh, the former Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib and leader of the organization, is promoting a shift from top-down to bottom-up development models. He criticized the practice of using politicians’ images in panchayat elections and urged voters to avoid candidates who distribute drugs or money. Singh emphasized that sarpanch candidates should be from the village rather than political parties to ensure they work for the village’s benefit.
The organization highlights the importance of participatory development, where local people’s involvement in decision-making and planning enhances the sustainability and effectiveness of development projects. In their addresses, they encourage villagers to support panchayats that rise above factionalism and ensure proper reservation for women and Dalits in upcoming panchayat elections.