“A Martyr Who Refused to Shoot His Own People”: Hardeep Singh Puri Pays Tribute to Shaheed Nanak Singh

New Delhi: The nation came together to pay heartfelt tribute to the freedom fighter Shaheed Nanak Singh at the Shaheed Nanak Singh Memorial Lecture held on Tuesday. Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, delivered a passionate keynote speech that not only celebrated the martyr’s legacy but also underscored India’s modern achievements.

Puri’s address resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the enduring relevance of Singh’s ideals in contemporary India, especially at a time when the country continues to navigate complex socio-political challenges while embracing its rich diversity. The lecture, attended by dignitaries, intellectuals, and civil society members, reinforced the Foundation’s mission to promote religious tolerance and patriotic service.

“I am very happy to be here because you are honouring the life of someone who was martyred before he could see India independent,” said Minister Puri, reflecting on Singh’s bravery. “He was part of the British police and refused to obey an order to shoot on his own people. That, in itself, is a very great thing.”

Interacted with a distinguished gathering of eminent achievers including several friends, former colleagues & members of armed forces, fellow DU and Hindu College alumni and members of media at a memorial lecture organised by Shaheed Nanak Singh Foundation run by my friend, & a… pic.twitter.com/qXGBHnZI2v

— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) April 23, 2025

The minister went on to highlight Nanak Singh’s pivotal role in defending Indian National Army (INA) members in court and his ultimate sacrifice on March 5, 1947, when he saved thousands of students at D.A.V. College, Multan. Singh’s widow, who was only 35 at the time, raised eight children, five of whom went on to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. Among his descendants is Lord Rami Ranger, a distinguished member of the UK’s House of Lords.

“These are inspirational stories,” Puri noted. “Today, as India rises from the 5th to the 3rd largest economy in the world, it is these sacrifices that need to be recalled and celebrated.”

The minister took the opportunity to provide an overview of India’s transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, particularly in infrastructure and energy reforms. Puri shared his own journey across various portfolios, from housing and civil aviation to commerce and petroleum.

“Today, Delhi Metro carries 7.5 million passengers daily. India now has the third-largest metro network in the world, ahead of Japan and the UK, and we are on track to overtake the U.S. soon,” he remarked.

Puri also highlighted the growth of civil aviation, with Uttar Pradesh now boasting six international airports, and more in the pipeline. “Every state wants an international airport today. That’s how civil aviation is growing.”

On energy sustainability, he recounted India’s progress in biofuel blending, which rose from 1.4% in 2014 to 20%, achieving the 2030 target six years ahead of schedule. “When I became petroleum minister in 2021, I wondered how we’d even meet 10%. We did it five months early.”

Concluding with a focus on India’s future, Puri pointed to advances in electric vehicles (EVs) and smart mobility. “At the Bharat Mobility event, 17 electric and hybrid vehicle models were ready for market launch—this isn’t six years down the line. It’s happening now.”

As the nation celebrates its economic ascent, Puri reminded the audience that it was the courage and sacrifice of heroes like Shaheed Nanak Singh that laid the foundation for this progress.

“It was a great honour that the Shaheed Nanak Singh Foundation invited me to deliver this year’s lecture,” he concluded. “These are real-life stories of how people contributed to the development of this country.”