Punjab announces new world-class university to honor ninth Sikh Guru Tegh Bahadur

Punjab will soon have a world-class university dedicated to Guru Tegh Bahadur, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced on Nov 25 in Anandpur Sahib during the 350th martyrdom anniversary event of the ninth Sikh Guru.

“A world-class university in the name of Guru Tegh Bahadur will be set up here,” Mann said, emphasizing that the institution will serve as a center of learning while honoring the Guru’s legacy.

In addition to the university, Mann said the state government will introduce free e-rickshaw and mini-bus services for devotees.

These services will operate in Amritsar, Talwandi Sabo in the Bathinda district, and Anandpur Sahib in the Rupnagar district.

He added that the government will cover all operational costs to ensure that visitors can reach major gurdwaras without financial burden.

Mann also announced plans to develop a heritage street in Anandpur Sahib, aiming to promote religious tourism and improve access to historic sites connected with Sikh history.

The announcements came a day after the Punjab Assembly passed a unanimous resolution declaring Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo, and the walled city of Amritsar as “holy cities.”

Mann said that the government will now enforce restrictions on the sale and use of meat, liquor, tobacco, and other intoxicants in these areas to preserve their spiritual character.

Highlighting Punjab’s religious significance, Mann reminded the gathering that three of the five Sikh Takhts are located in the state: Sri Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo, and Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib.