ETPB, PSGPC Finalise Arrangements for Sikh Pilgrims

ETPB, PSGPC Finalise Arrangements as 490 Sikh Pilgrims Set to Arrive Tomorrow for Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Death Anniversary
 Ali Imran Chattha | Nazrana Times Lahore June 20

A delegation of 490 Sikh pilgrims from India will cross into Pakistan tomorrow (June 21) to participate in the death anniversary observances of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, founder of the Sikh Empire. The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) have confirmed that all reception arrangements have been finalised.
According to details, the pilgrims will depart from Amritsar on June 21 and enter Pakistan via the Wagah Border, having received clearance following visa processing by the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. Of 500 applications submitted, 490 were granted travel clearance while others were declined.
ETPB Chairman Qamar-uz-Zaman said that arrangements for the pilgrims' accommodation, transport and security have been completed in coordination with provincial authorities, ensuring a smooth and dignified stay for the visiting delegation throughout its time in Pakistan.
PSGPC Pardhan Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora said the main anniversary ceremony will be held at Gurdwara Sri Dera Sahib in Lahore on June 29, with the pilgrims also scheduled to visit other historic Sikh shrines across the country during their stay, paying homage to sites associated with the legacy of the Sikh Empire's founder.
Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq said the Auqaf department, working alongside the ETPB and PSGPC, has put in place special arrangements for langar, medical assistance and crowd management at the shrine to facilitate the pilgrims during the main observance.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh, popularly remembered as Sher-e-Punjab, ruled over the Sikh Empire and remains one of the most revered figures in Sikh history. The annual pilgrimage, organised under the framework of bilateral religious tourism arrangements, reflects Pakistan's continued commitment to facilitating access to Sikh religious heritage sites within its territory.
The delegation is scheduled to return to India on June 30, following the conclusion of the commemorative events.