Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora has said that minorities are the pride and reality of Pakistan, who have played a vital role in the country’s development, prosperity, and stability since its inception.

In an exclusive interview with Radio Pakistan’s Lahore Correspondent Ghulam Haider, he said that personalities such as Sardar Hari Singh, S.P. Singha, and Jogendra Nath Mandal rendered invaluable services during the creation of Pakistan. Even today, individuals from minority communities are contributing significantly to national development.

He lauded the role of minorities in the promotion of Urdu language and cultural harmony, terming it commendable.

Appreciating the minority-friendly initiatives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, he said that the Punjab government has increased the minority development budget by 250 percent and is issuing minority identity cards.

Ramesh Singh Arora said that official ceremonies are being organized on minority religious festivals and a Minorities Day was also celebrated in the Punjab Assembly.

Commenting on India’s recent aggression, Ramesh Singh Arora said that the Indian government, particularly through its Hindutva-based ideology, is endangering peace in the region.

He said Pakistan’s armed forces have given a strong and befitting response to India, and Pakistan is fully capable of defending its homeland under all circumstances.

He paid tribute to Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, the Pakistan Air Force, Navy, and other security institutions for their courageous response.

The Provincial Minister urged the international community to take notice of India’s aggressive actions, warning that the region is home to nearly two billion people and any escalation could have global consequences.

Highlighting religious harmony, he said the Kartarpur Corridor stands as a symbol of interfaith unity, where a Christian citizen is serving as the head of the community kitchen, with Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs working together in peace and cooperation.

Condemning India’s move to close the Kartarpur Corridor, he said Pakistan has kept its doors open for Indian Sikh Yatrees and continues to facilitate religious tourism.

Lauding the invaluable role of Radio Pakistan in promoting positive narratives, Ramesh Singh Arora said that Radio Pakistan is contributing significantly to the country's development and prosperity.