Humble Beginnings: A man of many hats – a lawyer, an entrepreneur, and the driving force behind NIFAA (National Integrated Forum of Artists and Activists). Pritpal Singh Pannu’s journey is marked by unwavering dedication to societal welfare and a commitment to fostering positive change. Born in a small village named ‘Mehmal’, he was raised on tales of warriors and freedom fighters by his mother, which led to Pannu developing a profound sense of fearlessness and a solid commitment to service from a young age. His modest upbringing, marked by a one-room dwelling, studying under the glow of a lantern, and cycling long distances for labour work to support his education, laid the foundation for the values shaping his remarkable life. His commitment to social causes dates back to his childhood when, at 11, he became the Pradhan of the Naujwan Sikh Dal Sewa Organisation. During his college days, Pannu founded the ‘Yuva Sadbhawna Samiti’ with fellow students.
NIFAA
A Vision Realized In 2000, Pannu laid the foundation of NIFAA, a youth organization that has evolved into a national powerhouse spanning 28 states and union territories in India. “Recognizing that every form of art can influence society positively and negatively, NIFAA serves as the canvas for change, uniting artists and activists on a common platform,” shares Pannu’s vision behind starting NIFAA.
He is, a well-known social worker from Karnal, Haryana, has consistently worked to promote national integration, social harmony, and the country’s culture for the last two decades. After receiving the National Youth Award from the Government of India for remarkable youth activities in 2008, Mr Pannu resolved to play a more significant role in the national arena & inspired thousands of young social workers to do social work with a sense of patriotism. As a result, people from almost every state and union territory got associated with NIFAA and, under his guidance, carried the crusade of promoting social & cultural unity in the country.
He has travelled widely under cultural and social exchange programs and actively participated in international conferences & workshops held in the USA, Canada, Austria, Japan, Australia, Mauritius, Russia and other countries. He is also credited for his role in an exhibition of Indian artists’ paintings in Japan, the USA, Russia, and Mauritius. He always extended a helping hand to people in need and worked extensively in slum & rural areas, prisons, and orphanages for Acid Attack victims and differently able persons. In one of his annual projects, 26 November se 26 January- Desh ki Baat, he has reached out to more than 10 Lakh students to inculcate moral values and tell them about their duties towards their country, society and elders. Mr Pannu always worked actively whenever the country needed him.
Positions Held
Chairman:
National Integrated Forum of Artists and Activists (India)
President:
India Mauritius Trade & Cultural Friendship Forum
President:
District Hockey Association Karnal
Gen. Secretary:
International Sikh Forum
Working President:
District Fencing Association
Ex. Member:
Lok Adalat
Ex. Member:
Telephone Advisory Committee (Ministry of Telecommunication)
Training & Conferences
20 Days long Community Development Training program of Japan International Cooperation Agency in Japan
International Conferences on AIDS were held in 2010 in Austria, in 2012, in Washington D.C. in the USA, in Melbourne (Australia) in 2014, and in Montreal, Canada, in 2022.
GOPIO's International conference on the role of Diaspora in India's Development held in New York in the USA
"Yes We Can" cultural festival for differently able people held in Russia
Vishav Hindi Diwas & International Gita Mahotsav held in Mauritius
Organized India Mauritius Global Partnership Summit in Mauritius
Organized two-day agricultural conference in Mauritius
Social and cultural exchange programs with Japan, Mauritius, UAE, Europe, Canada, USA, Russia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, etc.
Attended many National conferences and seminars as keynote speaker in various parts of the country.