Vision Of Sardar Patel

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, also considered to be the architect of modern India, has been in news recently with the announcement by the finance minister that Rs. 200 crore in the budget has been set aside to erect a large statue of this great man in Gujarat. This is our Prime Minister Narendar Modi’s dream project, his tribute to Sardar Patel. This statue, “The Statue of Unity” will be on the same lines as that of the “Statue of Liberty” that will make our country stand tall as one nation, one culture, and one people, which was the dream of Sardar Patel for India.

There are lots of discussions going on in the social media about this project ever since its announcement and the young generation is criticizing it very badly. According to them, Rs. 200 crore is a big amount of money, which could have been allotted for other important social issues.

While this is true, we cannot also deny the fact it was Sardar Patel who had great dreams for India after its Independence and had he been alive, India would have been in a different world: a better and a prosperous one. Narendra Modi, a great admirer and staunch follower of Patel had once stated in his personal blog that had Sardar Patel been the first Prime Minister after independence, the country’s scenario would have been completely different.

Now the question that comes to our mind is why and how? What was the vision of Sardar Patel for modern India?

Sardar Patel was greatly influenced by Mahatma Gandhi. He joined India’s freedom struggle. He started the peasant movement in various parts of Gujarat and took up the cause of the farmers against heavy taxes levied on them by the British. He became the president of India National Congress in 1931. He took active participation in Salt Satyagraha, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement, and was considered one of the most influential leaders during the Freedom Movement.

Sardar Patel and Independent India

Modern Indian history is incomplete without Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. His vision, his work, and his principles were highly remarkable in Independent India.

• Integrating India: When our country became independent in 1947, Sardar Patel was appointed as the deputy prime minister for home ministry of the country. He took over the role as a deputy PM at a time when Indian history was in a very critical stage. Since day one, he had a vision for India to consolidate it into one united country. As the first Home Minister of Independent India, he played an important role in bringing the 565 self-governing princely states and territories into the Indian federation. To the astonishment of his critics and fellow politicians, almost within a year, he drew a new map of India with every princely State being a part of the Indian union and thus, paved the way for cultural unity and harmony.
• Civil services in Independent India: According to many, the actual acknowledgement for formation of the Indian Civil Service in free India goes to Sardar Patel. The Indian Civil Service, formed by the British Government was to protect and strengthen their rule in India. Sarder Patel, on the other hand, wanted a strong and independent civil service. He had put his support for a Federal Civil Service. The Civil Service established in Democratic India should serve the people of India. His argument led to form a groundwork for Unified National Administration. And today, we do have the Indian Administrative Service, the Indian Police Service, and the Indian Forest Service for the people. But, we cannot say whether Patel’s ideology in the true sense has been followed or not as most of these civil servants, barring a few, are in the clutches of corruption and politicians. However, we cannot deny the fact that Patel had a vision to create a strong and vibrant administrative system but unfortunately he did not live long to fulfill his dream.
• Concern about border security: Patel conceptualized some of the greatest policies to keep our country secured from border countries’ attack. He wrote a letter to Nehru, pointing out few facts like as:

o   Cautioning him about the threat to India and impending war from China.

o   The need for strengthening defense force.

o   Examining and reshuffling the military position in various borders.

o   Strengthening Northern and North-Eastern frontier.

o   Improvement of transport and communication in these border areas.

However, this was not taken seriously by Nehruji and we had to pay a heavy price in 1962 Indo-China war. Not only that, certain precautionary measures taken at that point of time, as pointed out Sardar Patel could have definitely saved our country from the constant fear of terrorism today.

• Privatization: In addition, Sardar Patel was favorable for private enterprises, as opposed to public sector favored by Nehru. He was in very close terms with many top Indian businessmen at that time. His views on Indian business were just appropriate for modern India today.

No wonder, Narendra Modi had rightly stated many times that the Indian economy would have been different if Patel was the first prime minister. He was indeed the architect of modern India. Unfortunately, he lived only for three years after independence. Had he been alive, this man of iron will, with his vision for modern India could have placed India amongst the most developed nations of the world. We salute this great India.

Earthen Diyas liven up homes on Diwali

It’s that time of the year again, when you need to spruce your home, make it bright and colourful and welcome Goddess Laxmi to your home. Yes, the most awaited festival of Indians, the festival of lights is just round the corner. Diwali has always been a special day for all Hindus spread all across the globe and is celebrated worldwide with great pomp and enthusiasm. Since time immemorial, this festival is celebrated by lighting earthen diyas all across the home and the courtyard. But, in the last few years, it has been seen that people are celebrating Diwali by lighting electric lights and lamps and the tradition of lighting diyas has slowly been fading. But there is nothing like the light of a diya, dispelling the darkness of ignorance.

Chinese Lights Versus Earthen Diyas

No doubt, the Chinese market of lights and crackers has flooded into the retail markets. The LED and Chinese lights are cheap, colourful and bright and are available in variety of styles and designs. The clay lamps, especially, the designer ones, are comparatively expensive. The electric bulbs are available between Rs 100 and Rs 500 per 20-piece pack. These are also available in shapes of big and small diyas. The colourful Chinese lights are cheap and you get a wide variety to choose from. A 5-metre string costs just Rs 25-30. So by spending a mere Rs. 500, you can get enough strings to illuminate your homes. On the other hand, for many, burning clay lamps is cumbersome as well as expensive. You have to fill it with oil, place wicks properly and then light them. This takes time. Plus, both oil and the diyas are expensive. That is why, lights have replaced the traditional diya lighting.

Diyas that Glow Dispel Lights and Divinity

Diwali is the time when our local potters and craftsmen and artisans get busy with making lamps and diyas. Otherwise, for the rest of the year, they are busy in making ‘kullhads’ or earthen teacups. There has also been rise in the cost of ‘mitti’ (clay) used in making the pottery. Even then, potters start preparing well before in time during Durga Puja by casting and firing their wares and start spinning the wheels to create the earthen lamps for Diwali. Festivals are the times when they look forward to as they can earn more than what they actually earn. Unfortunately, this was the not the case in the last few years as people opted for electric lights. With the emergence of mall culture, people were also more keen to buy these stuff from sophisticated malls and retails stores at double the price.

Thanks to Make in India, earthen diyas are reviving

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to all Indians that they should buy earthen diyas and lamps from the street sellers instead of going to malls. With Narendra Modi’s insistence on “Make in India”, the potters of our country are busy now in the making of earthen diyas in varied shapes, sizes, colours and designs. In fact, there are designer diyas available in the market beautifully studded with stones and beads, displaying a great artistic sense by our local potters and artisans.

Potters are hopeful this season. The traditional art of making earthen “diyas” is witnessing a revival this year as people are becoming environment-friendly and are willing to illuminate their homes in a traditional way. Besides the clay diyas, the metallic diyas are also a trend. Various fashionable metal diyas are available in the market. They are expensive but very beautiful and can be reused again and again for decoration.

Nothing can replace the divine light of a lamp. That simple brown clay diya holds a great significance and lighting of a earthen diya marks the commencement of something auspicious in our lives. Earthen lamps add a unique glitter and charm to the houses. The potters weave their own magic in the small colourful lamps and the flickering flame is simply enchanting.

Let us illuminate the lives of these poor people who wait eagerly for this time of the year. So, this Diwali, let us pledge to light clay lamps around the house, that is natural and beautiful.

Celebrate a Green Diwali this year

One of the most awaited festivals in India and abroad for Indians is Diwali. Diwali always falls on the darkest night of the year and that is why we illuminate everything around us with lights and diyas on this day. We follow the age-old tradition of offering our prayers to Goddess Laxmi and welcoming her to our nicely decorated homes. And yes, how can we forget the tradition of burning of fire crackers on this day? The sounds of the crackers fill the air, the lights illuminate the sky and our homes and there is happiness all around. Sounds great, isn’it? Like everyone else, I also look forward to this day every year. But, this festival is also associated with some harmful effects on the environment.

Impact of Diwali on the Environment and the Society

• Air pollution: The fun of Diwali lies in bursting of firecrackers. And the result is tremendous air pollution. The already polluted cities of our country get more air polluted on this day. Burning of fire crackers releases toxic gases and pollutants in the air like as sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide etc. This, in turn, causes air-polluted diseases like asthma and bronchitis. The elderly and children are affected. Also the animals and birds. It also creates smog which leads to reduced visibility in the nights after Diwali.
• Noise pollution: Not only dust and smoke, bursting of firecrackers leads to noise pollution which is equally harmful and affect the sick old people, the patients in the hospitals. In extreme cases, noise pollution can lead to hear loss, high blood pressure and insomnia. Animals and birds are also very badly affected during Diwali by the loud sounds of crackers.
• Child Labour: While we enjoy burning crackers, we should not forget that most of the crackers are prepared by young children who work as labourers in the factories. These crackers are prepared using hazardous substances, chemicals and acids. In the process, they fall sick due to harmful fumes, they burn their legs, hands and eyes, and they work in very shabby conditions at a very low wage.
• Consumption of Energy: Using of electric lights and bulbs is a trend these days in Diwali. Not only homes, business establishments, offices, shops, monuments and roads are also decorated with electric lights, much before Diwali and even after that. The result is heavy load on electrical energy sources and consumption of huge amount of electricity.
• Garbage all around: How can we forget about the garbage and litter that gather on the roads, in our localities just after Diwali? The quantity of garbage released after Diwali is very high. Last year, in Delhi alone, approximately 4,000 additional metric tonnes of garbage were released. Double the amount in Mumbai. This garbage is hazardous as it includes sulphur, phosphorous, potassium chlorate, and burnt paper of the fire crackers. Not only that, you also find empty sweet boxes, gift wrappers, dried flowers all across the roads.
• Accidents and Burns: Last but not the least, we cannot ignore the minor and major accidents that take place on Diwali, including the burn injuries. Over 40% of burn injuries are of children below 14 years of age. According to a report, around 10,000 people get injured by the crackers every year. There are minor injuries which are not recorded but cause great pain to the victims.

Government of India’s Legal Steps

• Right to Peaceful Sleep is a fundamental right of every citizen of the country. Considering this, the Supreme Court of India has banned bursting of crackers after 10 pm during the Diwali festival. Same is applicable for Dussehra and other festivals too.
• There is a decibel limit fixed for firecrackers at the maximum of 125dB, under the Encironment Protection Act, 1986.
• The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has banned fire-crackers whose dB level is more than 125 at a distance of 4 meters from the point where they are burned.
• Also, loudspeakers cannot be used after 10:00 pm and the offenders can face 5 years of jail or Rs. 1 lakh as fine.

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Green Diwali We always talk of keeping our environment clean. But, then again, we are the only ones who pollute it. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan launched on 2nd October 2014 stresses on a Clean India. Prime Minister has appealed to each and every one of us to maintain cleanliness in our homes and localities. Under these circumstances, I wonder how people are going to celebrate Diwali this time, when this is one festival which creates the maximum pollution in a year just, that too, within a short duration.

Can we follow a Green Diwali this time? Green Diwali is not a new concept. Keeping the impact of environmental pollution in mind, it should be our duty to play an environmental friendly and green diwali this time. And it is not that tough. If we have the will, we can do it.

• First of all, let us replace the electric lights by burning earthen lamps or diyas. The age old tradition is much better than the new trend of decorating homes with electric lights. No doubt, this consumes more oil but there will be less pollution as the duration of the diyas is shorter. Plus, it looks beautiful.
• I know, it is easy to say “stop bursting fire crackers” but in reality it is difficult to do so. After all, how can we stop all of a sudden an age-old tradition? It is better to purchase crackers from legal shops, where the packets are properly labelled with the manufacturer’s name, the instructions, the name of the item, including the decibel level.
• Nowadays, environmental friendly crackers are also available which produce less smoke and sound.
• Reduce the amount of purchase of fire crackers than you usually do.
• Select a common open space in your locality to burst crackers with all friends, family members and others from your community. Try lighting noiseless crackers.
• Make sure to clean that area the very next day and throw the garbage in the allocated space.
• Make rangolis using ingredients available in our homes and kitchen shelves like as rice powder for white, turmeric or pulses for yellow, sindoor for red, including fresh flowers.

By observing an environment friendly Green Diwali, we as citizens of this country, can make our little contribution towards the society, the environment as well as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

Shramev Jayate

On 16th October, 2014, Modi unveiled the long awaited labour reforms at the Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay Shramev Jayate Karyakram, organized by the Union Labour Ministry. The Prime Minister inaugurated the programme which also included a one-day conference that was attended by the labour, health, employment, and vocational training ministers of the various Indian states. Modi chose this platform to launch the Shramev Jayate Karyakram – a series of labour-centric reforms that are intended to facilitating Make in India – the NDA government’s campaign that intends to convert India into a manufacturing hub.

Shramev Jayate

In his address at the occasion, the Prime Minister said, “Shramev Jayate (labour is triumphant) has the same power as Satyamev Jayate (truth is triumphaant) in the development of our nation.” He insisted that the problems of labour must be seen from the viewpoint of the workers (shramik) and not from the viewpoint of the industrialists.

Labour reforms have been a major demand in the past few weeks. Modi also met with a number of prospective investors who complained about India’s inflexible labour laws and low ease of business ranking. The Labour Ministry and the PMO have put together the Shramev Jayate Yojana in an effort to boost indigenous industries.

Reforms galore

The Prime Minister announced the launch of a Unified Labour Portal, also known as the Shram Suvidha – the platform that enables the implementation of a transparent and universally accessible information system to manage the Labour Inspection Scheme. The system shall put an end to the ‘inspector raj’ which has hounded the industries and held the economy ransom. “Inspector Raj…we heard this since our childhood and we thought it is for policemen, only but then we realised it’s a lot more,” quipped the Prime Minister.

Another important reform that has been announced today is the raise in wage ceiling from Rs. 6,500 to Rs. 15,000 per month. This is likely to ensure that the EPF scheme covers the most vulnerable labour groups and they derive all the benefits that they deserve. The minimum pension scheme announced today will ensure that every labourer will receive a pension of at least Rs. 1,000 after superannuation.

The very basis for labour inspections will now be changed. The criteria for all inspections will be uniform and objectively formulated. Inspection lists will be computer generated and random to eliminate bias and will be compiled centrally. The results of all inspections need to be put up on the portal within 72 hours, making way for complete transparency.

This is a considerable change from the current system where units are chosen for inspection at the discretion of local inspectors. Inspection criteria are arbitrary and this allows inspectors to harass factory owners and employers for any real or imagined violations. Corruption and bribery are promoted by the previous system leaving the interests of the labourers unprotected.

The new inspection laws shall be sent out as text messages to almost 1,800 labour inspectors across the country apart from the official communication.

The introduction of the UAN (Universal Account Number) will now allow labourers in the organised sector to change employers without needing to apply for PF transfer. It will also allow employees to view updated PF accounts from anywhere in the nation. Similarly, about 6 lakh to 7 lakh labour-intensive industrial units in the country are set to receive their unique Labour Identification Number, or LIN. The government is likely to take up an active role in promoting teh Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) by felicitating some of the accomplished alumni.

Are Indian Traditions based on Scientific Facts?

There are various traditions and beliefs that have been followed by Hindu Indians since ancient times. Most of these beliefs, it is argued nowadays, are superstitions which people follow blindly for the fear of being cursed or harmed by supernatural powers or God. However, research studies have shown now that some of these beliefs or superstitions have scientific reasons associated with them. Sounds strange, isn’ it? Let us check out some of these with their scientific explanations:

Why do we throw coins into wells and rivers?

Usually, the belief is that it brings luck. Nowadays, coins are made of stainless steel. In ancient times, most of the coins were made of copper and intake of copper was helpful for the human body. Copper and silver have anti-bacterial properties. Our forefathers threw copper coins in the water, so that when they take bath using that water, they can have sufficient intake of copper. It was made a custom so that we follow it.

Why do we greet people with a “Namaskar”?

It is an age old Hindu culture when people greet each other with a “Namaskar” or joining both the palms of their hands. The Namaskar tradition is associated with paying respect to the other person. But, scientifically explained, it means that when the palms are joined, the tips of all the fingers also join, which are in fact the pressure points of eyes, ears and mind. Pressing them means you can remember that person for a long time as it activates the pressure points.

Why do women wear silver toe rings?

There is science behind wearing a silver toe ring by a married Indian woman. It is worn on the second toe. A nerve from the second toe connects the uterus and then to the heart. Wearing silver toe ring strengthens and keeps the uterus healthy by regulating the menstrual cycle.

Why do we apply red tilak on our foreheads?

As a custom, women put on a bindi to display that they are married and men put on a tilak on religious occasions. However, scientifically, it is said that the spot between the two eyebrows is a major nerve point in human body. The ancient concept is to prevent loss of “energy”; the red ‘kumkum’ retains energy and controls the various levels of concentration.

Why do married Indian women apply sindoor or vermillion?

Though sindoor, since ancient times is associated with married women, studies have shown that it has scientific reason behind it. It is to be noted that sindoor is a mixture of turmeric, lime and the metal mercury, which have their intrinsic properties. Mercury helps in controlling blood pressure, removing stress and strain and it also stimulates sexual drive. That is why sindoor is prohibited for the widows.

Why do we ring bells in the temples?

As soon as we enter the temple, before entering the main shrine, we always ring the metal bells hanging at the entrance. As a tradition, we believe that the sound of the bell keeps evil forces away and it is pleasant to God. However, the scientific reason is that when we ring the bell, it clears our mind, help us to focus and stay sharp on our devotion to God. These sounds produced by the bells create a harmony between the left and right sides of our brain and the sounds last for minimum of 7 seconds in echo mode. This echo sound activates all the seven healing centres in our body and helps our mind to get rid of all negative thoughts.

Why do we worship the peepal tree?

Logically seen, except the shade, peepal tree is usually a useless tree as it does not bear any fruit nor is the wood strong for any purpose. Even then, since ancient times, we have shown deep reverence for this tree and we worship it. Why? According to scientific research this is the only tree that produces oxygen even at night. Our forefathers knew about it. So in order to save the tree from being cut, they related it to God or religion.

Why can’t we sleep with our head towards north?

The superstition is that it invites ghost or death. But, according to science, human body has its own magnetic field and earth is also a giant magnet. It is said that if we sleep with our head in the north direction, our body’s magnetic field becomes completely asymmetrical to the magnetic field of the earth, which can cause health problems and the heart needs to work harder to get rid of this asymmetry of magnetic fields.

Why do we keep fasts on Navratris?

Have you ever thought why we have Navratris twice a year and why do we keep fasts? No doubt, we keep fasts on Navratris, as it has been associated with invoking the blessings of Maa Shakti. Scientific reason for this is that both the months of Navratris are the months of changing seasons. The nine days of fast give our body enough time to adjust to the changing season and also help in detoxifying the body.

Why do we touch feet of others?

Usually we touch the feet of our elders or the pious ones. To bow down and touch someone’s feet means our ego is reduced and when the other person accepts our respect, it means that his heart emits positive thoughts and energy, which reaches us through his hands and toes. The entire completed circuit helps in the flow of energy, creating a quick connect between two minds and hearts. The same explanation can be given for hugs.

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan Going Strong In States

The country’s biggest-ever cleanliness drive, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 2 with a target set for making India ‘clean’ by 2019. With the formal announcement of the programme, ministers, celebrities, sport stars, politicians, political parties, the judiciary and corporations and others have all come forward to be a part of this programme and to encourage the general public to participate actively in this mission.

Various states of the country responded actively to the Swachh Bharat mission and participated in it with enthusiasm. Here is a brief description on how different states were involved in the launch of Clean India campaign.

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the Swachh Bharat campaign emphasising the need for cleanliness to ensure the beauty and progress of a place. Wielding a broom in Bhopal, he requested people to devote at least two hours in a week towards cleanliness. Like NaMo, he also administered a pledge to the people, and government officials and employees.

Gujarat

The state government of Gujarat announced a special cleanliness drive in connection with Clean India Campaign. Under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mrs. Anandiben Patel, a meeting was organised in which it was decided that the state would participate in the cleanliness campaign from 2nd October to 31st October, the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The cleanliness campaign was launched at Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan will continue to be celebrated in phased manner till 2019. The movement had been responded enthusiastically by the people on its first day, and is expected to provide a boost to the tourism sector of the state.

Assam

In Assam, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was launched on 2nd October by Sports Minister Sarbanand Sonowal in Guwahati railway station in the presence of officials of the North East Frontier Railways. Assam Chief Secretary Jitesh Khosla launched the drive at Old Janata Bhawan premises in Guwahati. Government employees and the common people have vowed to contribute towards this Abhiyan.

However, the actual campaign started on 5th October when Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi joined in the cleaning campaign by sweeping garbage in three different localities of the state capital. NGOs, public organizations and the common people took part in the campaign organized by the Kamrup Metropolitan District Administration and Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC). Tarun Gogoi announced the forming of Green Brigade committees to keep the localities neat and clean. Though Gogoi had mentioned that he had launched a similar programme in 2012, it was not a successful one. But this time the cleanliness drive will be a continuous process in Guwahati and in other parts of the state. While he launched the swachh campaign in Guwahati, his other ministers and Congress MLAs launched the clean India drive in different districts on 5th Oct.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao gave a cleanliness vow to the officers and staff of his state ministry to mark the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission. The Governor read out the pledge to the state government officials in Marathi. Over 10,000 employees of Central and Western Railways joined the Swachh Bharat mission by carrying out cleanliness drives in different parts of the state.

Uttar Pradesh

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh started the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in his home state. He said that only a clean India can be healthy, and appealed to every person to dedicate at least two hours per week for cleanliness. Union Minister for Water Resources Uma Bharti, launched the mission in her constituency Jhansi and said she will devote 300 hours annually to the mission. She said that the cleaning will continue on a daily basis. She also visited the Nagar Nigam office in Jhansi and administered a pledge in front of the employees to join the campaign.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu of the state of Andhra Pradesh had participated in Swachh Bharat Abhiyan at Prakash Nagar in Vijayawada on 2nd Oct. He took part in a cleaning programme and a padayatra, appealing everyone to participate in the cleanliness drive. Union Minister of State for Commerce Nirmala Sitaraman and several state ministers took active participation in the campaign. The state government also launched “NTR Sujala Scheme” which will provide 20 litres of pure water at the cost of Rs 2 in all the 13 districts.

In Telangana, Governor ESL Narasimhan along with government employees took brooms and cleaned the roads and took part in another cleaning up programme in a school in Hyderabad. He emphasised on promoting green practices to protect environment and also urged to keep the surroundings clean.

Punjab and Haryana

In Punjab and Haryana, too, a cleanliness drive was launched, which was carried out in offices, police headquarters, Raj Bhawan, etc. To make it a people’s movement, officials, activists, citizens, employees and school children across Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh took a ‘cleanliness oath’ on 2nd Oct. At Punjab police headquarters, officials took the pledge in the presence of Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Sumedh Singh. Punjab governor Shivraj V Patil appealed to everyone to inculcate the habit of cleanliness, and encourage others to participate in the drive. He also mentioned that proper steps will be taken to maintain the cleanliness of important public places of Chandigarh. In Haryana too, many participated in the campaign. Cleanliness drives were launched in different parts of Haryana.

Bihar

Union Ministers Ramvilas Paswan, Upendra Kushwaha, Ravishankar Prasad and actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha, along with Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, took up the broom to formally start the Swachh Bharat mission in Bihar on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. They started the cleanliness drive at different places in the state. Paswan and Kushwaha cleaned the platform and premises of Hajipur Railway station, while Ravishankar Prasad, along with General Manager of East Central Railway (ECR) zone Madhuresh Kumar took part in the mission at Patna junction station. MP Shatrughan Sinha took part in the campaign at Patna Airport. The Chief Minister flagged off a vehicle which would travel around the state to spread awareness of cleanliness among the people. ECR officials swept the platforms and station premises of different big and small stations.

It is a matter of great satisfaction for all to see the states are getting actively involved in Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. The Mission needs to be continued with full enthusiasm so that it will be a success by 2019.

International Film Festival of India an Advantage for Goa

Goa is a perfect choice for events because of its accessibility and ecology. And no doubt the Union Information and Broadcasting Ministry has rightly chosen the world renowned beach resort as its permanent venue for hosting the International Film Festival of India. The Central Government-hosted IFFI is the most famous international film festival of Asia held annually. The festival acts as a common platform for world cinema to showcase the cinematic talents of various countries and promote the art. Before the declaration of the permanent venue in an MoU between the I&B Ministry and the State Government recently, Goa had been the venue for the IFFI for a decade.

Boost for tourism

The news of this permanent stature came as a ray of joy for the State! The signing of such a memorandum is a major step taken by the Government towards the development of Goa. The tourism sector, which thrives solely on the scenic natural beauty of this beach State, has been a major source of income for the State. However, the attractive developments in other States have posed a threat to the status of Goa as the hottest beach destination, thereby causing a decline in tourism business! The decision regarding the IFFI will offer a pool of opportunities to the natives of the State. Not only will it give the tourism industry a major blow, but will also move Goa beyond the status of a tourist destination.

The IFFI has come as a boon for Goa! The opportunities it has brought with itself are beyond the imagination of a common man. The State will now enjoy substantial benefits in terms of employment and income. There will be massive spin-offs in the businesses like hotels, airlines, consumer shops and travel agencies. There will also be a relative increase in the investment in infrastructure of the State.

Cultural impact on Goa

Not only this, the arrangements for IFFI will gradually make Goa a cultural destination as well! Theatre will be developed and encouraged on an international level. Besides, Goa will enjoy an equal share in the decisions regarding the various concepts of the festival’s arrangements.These are just some of the conspicuous effects this development will have on the State, while the actual might be inestimable!

The IFFI will be held from November 20 to November 30 this year in Goa.The Union I&B Minster, Prakash Javedkar, foresees Goa transforming like other international venues like Cannes. The Ministry and the State Government hope to benefit substantially from this development. As for the masses, we really hope that the mileages of this deal reach up to the grass roots level! Only then will it be regarded as a profitable step by the Government!

Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his Birth Anniversary

Father of the nation, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on 2nd October, 1869. He gave birth to terms like non-violence, civil disobedience, freedom, etc. Mahatma Gandhi is also termed as ‘Bapu’ by his devotees. Gandhiji’s birthday is celebrated as a national holiday and a day of non violence and peace.  He led and made many campaigns and described satyagraha in the true essence.

Among many others who fought for freedom, he was the one who challenged the Britishers and in the process got himself imprisoned for many years. Gandhiji always practised non-violence and led the most simple life.

There are still many Gandhians who try to follow his philosophy and ideologies to promote peace and harmony. He and his life was like an open book and his spirit of leading life was just hatsoff. Gandhiji’s philosophy was not based on theory but he practiced and preached what he said. On Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti occasion, here we are sharing his top 15 quotes and giving this legend a grand tribute- which will help one to walk on non-violence path.

• “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”

•  Always aim at complete harmony of thought and word and deed. Always aim at purifying your thoughts and everything will be well.

•  Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.

•  I cannot teach you violence, as I do not myself believe in it. I can only teach you not to bow your heads before any one even at the cost of your life.

•  “Seven social sins: politics without principles, wealth without work, pleasure without conscience, knowledge without character, commerce without morality, science without humanity, and worship without sacrifice.”

•  “An error does not become truth by reason of multiplied propagation, nor does truth become error because nobody sees it. Truth stands, even if there be no public support. It is self sustained.”

•  “An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.”

•  “When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it–always.”

•  “Your beliefs become your thoughts, Your thoughts become your words, Your words become your actions, Your actions become your habits, Your habits become your values, Your values become your destiny.”

•  “You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is like an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.”

•  “Each night, when I go to sleep, I die. And the next morning, when I wake up, I am reborn.”

•  “Change yourself – you are in control.”

•  “To believe in something, and not to live it, is dishonest.”

•  “Men often become what they believe themselves to be. If I believe I cannot do something,it makes me incapable of doing it. When I believe I can,I acquire the ability to do it even if I didn’t have it in the beginning.’

•  “If you want something really important to be done you must not merely satisfy the reason, you must move the heart also.”

Tribute to Lal Bahadur Shastri on his Birth Anniversary

October 2 holds a special place in Indian history. Two of its greatest national leaders were born on 2nd October. While many know that Mahatma Gandhi was born on the 2nd October 1869, many don’t know that also India’s second Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri was born on the same date in 1904. Shashtriji was an ardent follower of Mahatma Gandhi and his principles. It was Mahatma Gandhi who drew Shastriji’s attention to India’s independent movement.

Lal Bahadur Shashtri believed in Nehruvian economic policies and hence he was made the Prime Minister after the death of Jawaharlal Nehru in 1964. There are lot of episodes and things that one would like to know about Shashtriji. We take a look at them here:

1. Lal Bahadur Shastri was born in Ramnagar in Varanasi in a Kayastha family, but as Shastriji didn’t believe in caste discrimination, dropped his tittle. Later, when he graduated at Kashi Vidyapeeth, he was given the title of Shashtri (scholar).

2. Lal Bahadur Shastri’s fondness for Mahatma Gandhi is well known. Not many know that Shashtri was also influenced by Bal Gangadhar (Lokmanya) Tilak in his early days.

3. In 1921, when Mahatma Gandhi call for youth to come out of schools and colleges and join the Non-Cooperation movement, Shahstri paid heed to that call. This also marked Shashtri’s first move/contribution towards India’s freedom.

4. Lal Bahadur Shastri went to jail as early as when he was 17-years-old. Jailed for his participation in non-cooperation movement, Shastri was later let-off as he was only 17 (minor) then.

5. In 1930, during the Civil Disobedience Movement Lal Bahadur Shastri was again jailed for his participation in it. This time Shastri served a jail-term of two and half years. Shastri learned about western philosophers and social reformers during his jail-term.

6. Lal Bahadur Shastri was also arrested in 1940, and 1941 till 1946. The fact will surprise you a bit that Shastri spent almost nine years in jail in total during India’s Independence activism.

7. Not many know that the credit of appointing women conductors in transportation facilities go to Lal Bahadur Shastri. As a transport minister post-independence, Shastri achieved this feat.

8. Another little known fact about Lal Bahadur Shastri is that it was him who ordered using jets of water instead of lathis to disperse the crowd; during his charge as a minister of Police Department.

9. Lal Bahadur Shastri was the brain-child of landslide victories of the Congress party in General Elections 1952, 1957 and 1962.

10. In the recent 2014 Lok Sabha Elections from where Mohammad Kaif contested- Phulpur constituency, it was once used to be Lal Bahadur Shastri’s terrain.

11. Owing moral responsibility to a railway accident in Mahbubnagar in 1956, Lal Bahadur Shastri had resigned as the Railway Minister – setting new standards of morality in public life.

12. The credit of first appointing the committee on Prevention of Corruption also goes to Lal Bahadur Shastri during his tenure as Union Home Minister.

13. It is a little known fact that after Nehru died, Indira Gandhi was first offered the post of Prime Ministership. Only after she declined, Lal Bahadur Shastri was made the PM.

14. Lal Bahadur Shastri’s first broadcast as Prime Minister said, “There comes a time in the life of every nation when it stands at the cross-roads of history and must choose which way to go. But for us there need be no difficulty or hesitation, no looking to right or left. Our way is straight and clear—the building up of a socialist democracy at home with freedom and prosperity for all, and the maintenance of world peace and friendship with all nations.”

15. Lal Bahadur Shastri coined the phrase ‘Jai Jawaan Jai Kisaan (Hail soldier, Hail Farmer)’ to enthuse the moral, during India’s successful war against Pakistan in 1965.

16. Lal Bahdaur Shastri’s leadership was hailed across the globe when he led India to victory in the Indo-Pak war of 1965.

17. Lal Bahadur Shashtri died due to cardiac arrest under suspicious circumstances in Tashkent, giving rise to reports of a deep-rooted conspiracy.