PM Modi Extends Kartarpur Corridor Agreement
Support for Sikh Community Highlighted
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended the Kartarpur corridor agreement with Pakistan for another five years, a move praised by BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh. This extension allows uninterrupted pilgrimages to Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s gurdwara and addresses the removal of a USD 20 service charge by Pakistan. Chugh emphasized PM Modi’s respect for Sikh religious sentiments and the BJP’s commitment to religious freedoms.
Honoring Sikh Heritage
Chugh highlighted initiatives by PM Modi to honor Sikh heritage, including celebrating major Sikh events and exempting GST on Langar. The construction of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor and other projects demonstrate the government’s dedication to the Sikh community.
Development and Justice Initiatives
Since 2014, PM Modi has supported Punjab’s development and recognized the Sikh community’s contributions. Initiatives like ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ and the PRASHAD scheme celebrate Punjab’s heritage. The government has also sought justice for 1984 anti-Sikh riot victims and supported Sikhs worldwide through various measures.
Agreement Extension
The agreement, initially signed in 2019, facilitates pilgrimages to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the extension through diplomatic channels.
Doubts Revealed
Kartarpur Corridor -: The Kartarpur Corridor is a special pathway that allows Indian pilgrims to visit the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan, without a visa. It is an important religious site for Sikhs as it is the place where Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, spent the last years of his life.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji -: Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. He is highly respected and loved by Sikhs all over the world for his teachings of love, equality, and devotion to God.
BJP -: BJP stands for Bharatiya Janata Party, which is one of the major political parties in India. It is currently the ruling party in India, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a member of this party.
Tarun Chugh -: Tarun Chugh is a politician from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India. He often speaks on behalf of the party and supports its initiatives and policies.
Diplomatic channels -: Diplomatic channels refer to the official ways countries communicate and negotiate with each other. This can include discussions between ambassadors, government officials, or through formal letters and agreements.