PATIALA: Setting a strong and progressive tone for gender equality, Deputy Commissioner Dr Preeti Yadav, IAS, on Tuesday said that girls are second to none and women are the backbone of families and society. She was addressing the district-level Dheeyan Di Lohri celebrations organised by the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development at the District Administrative Complex in Patiala.
Emphasising the role of educated and empowered women, Dr. Yadav said families where women are informed and confident function more effectively, with key household decisions guided by their insight and experience. She added that traditional festivals like Lohri are collective celebrations that should also reinforce social unity and shared responsibility.
Speaking on the sidelines of the function, Dr. Yadav told Punjab Today that times have changed and society today is far more educated and aware. She said daughters are no longer treated as inferior to sons and are increasingly recognised as equal stakeholders in families and society.
Quoting a couplet by noted poet Abhishek Kumar Amber, she said:
“होंगी जिस घर में बेटियाँ यारो
उस का माहौल ख़ुशनुमा होगा”
Explaining the spirit of the verse, she said homes blessed with daughters are filled with happiness, warmth and positivity — a change in mindset that is now clearly visible across Punjab.
DC Preeti Yadav with officials and girls at the Dheeyan Di Lohri function in Patiala.
On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner distributed Lohri gifts to 101 girl children and extended festive greetings to district residents.
She said the Punjab Government has undertaken several initiatives for the empowerment of girls and women and urged people to avail maximum benefits from government welfare schemes.
Dr. Yadav also appealed to citizens to come forward to support the needy, especially during festivals.
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She stressed society’s collective responsibility towards weaker sections, including needy children, women, persons with disabilities and senior citizens, adding that celebrations should also serve as a reminder to uplift those who require assistance and dignity.
Officials participate in Lohri rituals during the Dheeyan Di Lohri celebration in Patiala.
The event was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Simarpreet Kaur, SDMs Harjot Kaur Mavi and Richa Goel, District Programme Officer Pradeep Singh Gill, District Social Security Officer Jobandeep Kaur Cheema, District Social Justice and Empowerment Officer Jasbir Kaur, District Child Protection Officer Shaina Kapoor, officials from various departments and a large number of parents of the girl children. 
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Team PT
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