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![]() The benefits of globalization are always part of the modern debate, but the importance of identity is often neglected in the 21st century. Identity is fluid and has many shapes. The identity defines the Indigenous relations of some people with particular religions and regions. Many conflicts in the world now stem from identity grievances. The cases of Kurds in Turkiye and Sikhs in India are iconic examples. Pakistan is also a diversified nation in terms of identity. People belonging to different religions and cultures live there. It is the primary responsibility of every state to preserve the identity and religious shrines of certain communities. For years, Pakistan has taken measures to protect and facilitate the Sikh community's visit to their shrines in Pakistan and India. It is worth mentioning that many Sikhs are settled in Pakistan, and the founder of Sikhism, Baba Guru Nanak, is also buried in Hassan Abdal. Recently, the birth ceremony of Baisakhi and Khalsa is scheduled from April 10 to 19, 2025. In order to promote harmony and cultural integration, 6,629 visas have been issued by the Pakistani government to Sikhs from India and four other countries, including the U.S.A, Canada, the UK and Australia. This move showcases Pakistan's dedication to religious tourism and the commitment to upholding peacebuilding under the 1974 Pakistan-India protocol on a visit to religious shrines. Hyperglobalization threatens the Indigenous way of life and the symbols and customs of specific communities and religions, but Pakistan, in this scenario, acts as a custodian of people-centric diplomacy to reinforce the importance of sacred cultural heritage. The Sikh pilgrims were facilitated by the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi and the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB). Therefore, the number exceeded 3,000 settled by the Pakistan-India protocol, showing more enthusiasm for the visitors. The ten-day visit will include important religious rituals and the important Vaisakhi festival, which ended on April 14, 2025, at Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hassan Abdal. However, the pilgrims will visit four major Gurdwaras, including Panja Sahib, Nankana Sahib, Kartarpur Sahib, and Dera Sahib. The event also commemorates the 326 anniversary of Khalasa, which resonates with the deep Historical and spiritual ties of the Sikh Community to its religious heritage. The aim behind such policies is very obvious: Through cultural diplomacy, Pakistan could foster its ties with the people of India, especially the Sikh community, and could encourage religious harmony and peaceful coexistence. In other words, such measures can position Pakistan as a favourite destination, enhancing religious tourism. These measures are part of Pakistan's soft diplomacy. ETPB's circular to security and civil bodies ensures safety and comfort, enhancing visitor experience and national credibility. Entry through the Wagah Border and a well-coordinated 10-day itinerary symbolize Pakistan's efficient hospitality infrastructure. Charge d'Affaires Saad Ahmad Warraich's remarks emphasize Pakistan's narrative of peaceful coexistence and respect. Charge d'Affaires Aftab Hasan Khan's greetings reflect Pakistan's welcoming posture and soft diplomacy. Pakistan's inclusive stature is lauded for acknowledging the fundamental rights of minority religions, which could improve its international human rights image. Promoting religious tourism is also an economic tool, as trees promote cultural and economic growth—such initiatives open ways for broader engagement with estranged neighbours. The high turnout and smooth organization contribute to Pakistan's global image and interfaith leadership. It is not only obligatory for Pakistan but all countries in the world to work for Indigenous culture. People worldwide own identity; they live and fight to seek recognition for their identity, but if some states disregard the orientation of such communities, they will seek recognition by any means. In the multicultural society of India and Pakistan, fascism does not work, but the distribution of power and anatomy is the best way to rule over the people because democracy on the state level has no meaning if it lacks democracy on a societal level. Abdul Mussawer Safi is a Pakistani international relations graduate keen on South Asian regional politics. He has been affiliated with think tanks such as Institute of Policy Studies Islamabad (IPS), Pak- Afghan Youth Forum (PAYF), and South Asia Times (SAT). He Twittets at @MussawerSafi1999.
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