As part of the series of E-Workshops with the Online University, Kyrgyzstan, the third e-workshop was organized on December 23, 2020. The theme was Human Interconnectedness and Nonviolent Communication. Conducting the e-workshop, the GSDS Programme Officer, Dr Vedabhyas Kundu cited the 2020 Human Development Report which points out that the pressures we exert on the planet have become so great that scientists are considering whether the Earth has entered an entirely new geological epoch: the Anthro¬pocene, or the age of humans. The Report calls for a just transformation that ex¬pands human freedoms while easing planetary pres¬sures. It notes, “Today almost 80 percent of the world’s people be¬lieve that it is important to protect the planet. But only about half say they are likely to take concrete action to save it. There is a gap between people’s values and their behaviour.”
In this context, Dr Kundu stressed how nonviolent communication encapsulates the understanding of the intricate relationship between nature-human-and all other living beings. He underlined how it was important to practice nonviolent communication not just with other human beings but with nature and other living beings. Prof Ellira Turdubaeva of the Online University, Kyrgyzstan moderated the e-workshop.
GSDS Programmes
E-Workshop on Human Interconnectedness and Nonviolent Communication
E-Workshop on Come Let Us Practice Nonviolent Communication
The Samiti organized an on-line lecture on “Come, Let Us Practice Nonviolent Communication” in Herat Afghanistan in association with Children’s Peace Builders Forum Afghanistan on December 15, 2020. Ms. Maleeka Hussaini and Ms. Fatima Haldari from Herat’s Children’s Peace Builders Forum, Afghanistan took part in the webinar that was conducted by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, GSDS. The E-workshop focused on integrating nonviolent communication in conflict regions and how young people can use their conflict competencies through NVC.
Condolence meeting organised
GSDS staff paid rich tributes to Shri Sri Ram Shastri, father of Dr. Sailaja Gullapalli’s Research Associate of GSDS, on December 29, 2020. Dr. Sailaja’s father passed away at his native home in Anantpur District in Andhra Pradesh. He was 80. Tribute was also paid to Shri Prayag Mahto, father-in-law of Smt. Rita Kumari, ex GSDS worker. Shri Mahto passed away on December 24, 2020. Further the Samiti also offered their tribute to Smt. Savitri and Shri Vinod Kumar Yadav who passed away on November 21 and 23, respectively.
Tribute to Justice Vikramaditya Prasad
GSDS staff offered condolence to hon’ble Mr. Justice Vikramaditya Prasad retired Judge of High Court of Jharkhand on December 28, 2020 at a condolence meeting organized in Gandhi Darshan. Justice Vikramditya died on December 28 at the age of 78 in Ranchi. Well-known for his oratory skills, Justice Vikramaditya Prasad recently delivered the key-note address at a webinar on the 71st anniversary of the Constitution of India on “Influence of Mahatma Gandhi on Constitution of India” organized by the GSDS in association with National University of Study and Research in Law Ranchi on November 26, 2020. A two-minute silence was also observed as a mark of respect to the departed soul. Family members of Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS and son on Justice Vikramaditya Prasad also joined the meeting virtually from Ranchi.
E-workshop on Practicing Nonviolent Communication
450 students, faculty members of Institute of Technology and Science, Ghaziabad took part in an on-line E-workshop on “Practicing Nonviolent Communication” on December 23, 2020. The e-workshop was conducted by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS. The welcome address was delivered by Prof. Nancy Sharma, Vice Principal UG Campus, I.T.S. Ghaziabad. Prof. Uttam Sharma, Chairperson BBA, I.T.S. Ghaziabad chaired the session.
Conducting the workshop on Non Violent Communication (NVC), Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu spoke of different theories and their practical applications. Speaking about the five key elements of communication, he spoke on the context of the Indian Culture and pointed to the five pillars of NVC – ‘Respect’, ‘Understanding’, ‘Acceptance’, ‘Appreciation’ and ‘Compassion’.
Elaborating his point further, Dr. Kundu quoted Marshall Rosenberg, according to whom: “Nonviolent Communication is founded on language and communication skills that strengthen our ability to remain human, even under trying conditions. It guides us in refraining how we express ourselves and hear others” and said that there is a need to develop a ‘cosmo-centric’ approach towards human beings and living creatures around us. While referring to eminent Gandhian Late Natwar Thakkar, Dr. Kundu said that there’s a need to understand inner self and go deep within.
In addition, he explained how we can bring non-violent dialogue into our lives. And what are the things that we need to keep... Read More
Woollen clothes distributed in Tihar CJ-4
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with Inner Wheel Club of Delhi...Civil lines Achievers, Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad North provided 350 set of warmers to the inmates in Central Jail No 4, Tihar Prisons on December 23,2020. Director GSDS Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, former D.G. Tihar Prisons Smt Vimla Mehra, Inner Wheel Club Delhi Civil lines President Ms. Renu Grover , Achievers President' Smt Bindu K Sangal, Secretary Ms. Anu Nagpal along with GSDS Tihar Coordinator Dr Manju Aggarwal, Programme Executive Shri Rajdeep Pathak, Shri Raj Kumar Superintendent CJ 4; Shri Rajesh Chauhan, Superintendent CJ 1&7, Deputy Superintendent Shri Manmohan, Welfare Officer Shri P. L. Meena and Warder Shri Amarjeet were present on the occasion. Face masks were also distributed during the programme.
Fourth Anupam Mishra Memorial Lecture organized
The Individual is a Mobile Institution and has to continuously introspect: Laxmi Dass
“Organisations should be flexible. Every individual has to be independent in their functioning. This was the message of Mahatma Gandhi and Acharya Vinoba Bhawe who had laid impetus on individual development of the workers for their overall growth”, said Shri Laxmi Dass. He further added, “Every organization has to be self-dependent organization, with faith in the God. They have to realize that they have a greater role towards the welfare of the society and have to depend on the established norms”.
Shri Laxmi Dass, Vice President Harijan Sevak Sangh and Executive Member GSDS was addressing a webinar while delivering the fourth Anupam Lecture series on the theme “Sansthain Narayan Parayan Bane” (Organisations must be oriented towards the greater common good) in Gandhi Darshan on December 22, 2020.
Addressing journalists, social thinkers, academicians and youth in the webinar, Shri Laxmi Dass said that many volunteer organisations have devoted their entire framework towards serving the society in areas of rural development, women empowerment, children and others. They have reached the interior parts of the country to serve the needy. “The role of these voluntary organisations is exemplary. Even where governments could not reach, there are many such organisations and people who have reached these most underdeveloped places and have worked towards providing education, health... Read More
GSDS Peace and Nonviolent lecture by Lord Bhikhu Parekh
As part of the GSDS Peace and Nonviolent Lecture series, the Samiti organized a lecture on “How Nonviolent is Gandhi’s Nonviolence”? on December 18, 2020. Padma Bhushan Lord Bhikhu Parekh delivered the online lecture that was chaired by Prof. Vidya Jain, Convener, Nonviolence Commission, and International Peace Research Association.
Sharing his view on the subject, Lord Bhikhu Parekh spoke of South Africa which was a turning point in Gandhi’s life and said that it confronted him with many unusual experiences and challenges, and profoundly transformed him. “During his 21 years in South Africa, Gandhi’s ways of thought and life underwent important changes. Indeed the two became inseparable for him. Thought came to have no meaning for him unless it was lived out, and life was shallow unless it reflected a carefully thought-out vision of life. Every time Gandhi came across a new idea, he asked if it was worth living up to” and added, “After his arrival in India, Gandhi thought that the method of satyagraha that he had developed in South Africa was India’s best hope. For Gandhi the well-planned Satyagrahas and the Constructive Programme, especially the latter, held the key to India’s moral regeneration and political independence”.
Pension Adaalat conducted
Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan convened a “Pension Adaalat” in Gandhi Darshan on December 18, 2020 that addressed the grievances of the pensioners regarding their various grievances that included issues regarding the Seventh Pay Commission and others. Pensioners of GSDS joined the meeting both virtually as well as physically. In the meeting, it was informed that the grievance has already sent to the Ministry. The Director further informed that the Samiti did not have resources of income and that the Samiti does not even take any ticket for the museum. He also brought to the notice that there aren’t enough sufficient funds for reimbursement of medical bills. Various other grievances were addressed during the meeting.
Sit with the Karigars to learn their art for they infuse positivity :Shri Basant
Government Degree College Kargil under the aegis of the Administration of Union Territory of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Kargil, in association with GSDS organized an on-line workshop on “Preservation and Promotion of Ladakhi Art and Craft” on December 11, 2020. Almost 68 participants took part in the workshop. 30 girl students engaged in training and production of ethnic Ladakhi crafts likes shawls, embroidery items, decorative items, traditional knitted wear products, etc. took part in the workshop and demonstrated their crafts for the promotion and preservation of indigenous craft. The speakers included: Dr. Javed I Naqui, Coordinator, Kargil Crafts Skill Centre; Shri Bishwajit Singh, Project Head, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushal Yojana; Ms. Tashi Yanskit, Senior Artisa, Ladakhi Traditional Dress; Ms. Aqila Akhtar, Young Craft Trainer and Entrepreneur, Kargil, Ms. Rahima Khatun, Secretary Nari O Sishu Kalya Kendra, Howrah, West Bengal, Smt. Geeta Shukla, Research Officer GSDS and Ms. Roopa Rawat, In-Charge Srijan GSDS. Shri Basant Singh, Former Advisor, GSDS was special guest on the occasion as an expert assessor.
Initiating the discussion, Dr. Javed I Naqui spoke of the initiative of the college in the promotion of the traditional art and craft.
Welcoming the delegation, Smt. Geeta Shukla briefed the gathering about the different initiatives of the GSDS towards promotion of skill amongst youth. She highlighted the Government of India’s... Read More
National Seminar on Swami Vivekananda, Indian Culture and Global Peace
A three-day national seminar on “Swami Vivekananda, Indian Culture and Global Peace” was organized by Society for Social Empowerment from December 11-13, 2020 by Society for Social Empowerment and Indian Council of Philosophical Research, New Delhi. Gandhi Smirti and Drashan Samiti and Choudhury Bansilal University, Bhiwani, Haryana were the knowledge partners. Historians, academicians, authors, writers, spoke on the occasion during different sessions on varied subjects.
Shri Arif Mohammad Khan, Hon’ble Governor of Kerala who was the chief guest expressed his concern regarding what India faced due to the long spell of foreign domination. We started neglecting our own ethics and heritage. He said that all people cannot be confined to one interpretation. It is not a question of dogma or faith, but a question of anubhuti (experience). Dharma and religion is completely different from each other. Dharma is an antonym of selfishness. He went on to add that when Vivekananda addressed the Parliament of Religion in Chicago he talked about inclusivity, divinity, equality of mankind.
Prof. Jagmohan Rajput, Former Director, NCERT delivered the key-note address and outlined Swamiji’s opinion about education and the role of a teacher in building society through inculcating character building of the students. He said that Swamiji not only ensured that the world should not only know India but should be interested in India
Earlier delivering the welcome address, Director... Read More
Workshop on UN Human Rights Day organised
On the occasion of the United Nations World Human Rights Day 2020, School of Political Science and School of Visual Communication, Kumaraguru College of Liberal Arts and Science, Coimbatore in association with GSDS organized a virtual workshop on UN Human Rights on the theme “Recover Better: Stand Up for human Rights” on December 10, 2020. The keynote address was delivered by Lordship Justice K. G. Balakrishnan, former Chief Justice of India and former Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India.
In his address, Justice Balakrishnan spoke about the history of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and also its various articles. He observed how the basic principles of human rights were an intrinsic aspect of the Indian Constitution right from its outset, and how that allows for greater freedom of the Indian citizen in matters like judicial rights. He recalled his time as the chairman of the NHRC and the processes that enabled implementation of his commission’s recommendations for the benefit of various states. Stating that the Covid-19 pandemic requires human rights to ensure stability, he emphasized the need for governmental authorities to focus on creating solutions that cater to the common man’s problems that go beyond the primary concern of health. He concluded with the four basic human rights – life, liberty, equality and fraternity – the four pillars of the UDHR.
To promote awareness about Human Rights and the UN Human... Read More
Religious leaders perform Sarva Dharma Prarthana at foundation stone laying ceremony of new Parliament building
Various religious leaders performed the 'Sarva Dharma Prarthana' (inter-faith prayer) on December 10, 2020 at the foundation stone laying ceremony of the new Parliament building. The religious leaders chanted prayers in various languages. Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti facilitated the inter-faith prayer on the occasion.
Amidst chanting of hymns by priests, the Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the New Parliament Building in Parliament House Complex. The Prime Minister also unveiled a plaque on the occasion.
According to a release by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the new building is an intrinsic part of the vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and will be a landmark opportunity to build peoples' Parliament for the first time after independence, one which will match the needs and aspirations of 'New India' in the 75th anniversary of independence in 2022.
"The new Parliament building will be modern, state-of-the-art and energy-efficient, with highly non-obtrusive security facilities to be built as a triangular-shaped building, adjacent to the present Parliament. Lok Sabha will be three times of the existing size and Rajya Sabha will be substantially bigger," the release said.
Among other leaders, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, Union Minister Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman foreign Envoys and Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla,... Read More
Rapid Antigen and RTPCR Tests conducted in Gandhi Darshan
Team of Doctors led by Dr. Sunil Minj, In-charge UPHC Daryaganj, conducted the Rapid Antigen and RTPCR tests for the Dharam Gurus and the GSDS officials. The results of 20 persons who were conducted the tests was negative.
Lecture on Concepts and Dimensions of Nonviolence
As part of the lecture series on nonviolence organized by GSDS in association with the Malaviya Centre for Peace Research, Banaras Hindu University, the focus of the first lecture on December 7, 2020 was on different concepts and dimensions of nonviolence. The GSDS Programme Officer, Dr Vedabhyas Kundu delivered the lecture. He spoke on different theoretical and practical notions of nonviolence, the Indian traditions of nonviolence, the Gandhian approach and contemporary issues related to nonviolence.
The second lecture in the series was on Nonviolent Communication on December 9, 2020. The GSDS Programme Officer, Dr Vedabhyas Kundu focused on the need of nonviolent communication, what was nonviolent communication and how it could be used in our daily lives. He also gave a theoretical orientation on nonviolent communication.
COVID Safety kits distributed in Chhapra, Bihar
GSDS in association with Lupin Human Welfare Organisation Rajasthan and Mahila Vikas Sansthan Basantpur, Chhapra, Bihar distributed the COVID safety kits to the doctors at the city hospital. Social worker Shri Viswas Gautam coordinated the distribution programme on behalf of the GSDS. Dr. Madeshwar Jha Civil Surgeon received the PPE kits, face masks, gloves and oximeter on December 4, 2020.
COVid19 Health Camp at Vijay Ghat slums organized
Health Camp was conducted in the Slum of Vijay Ghat on December 5, 2020. Rapid Antigen and RTPCR tests were conducted for 100 patients by the team of Doctors from UPHC Daryaganj New Delhi.. GSDS representatives Smt. Geeta Shukla, Research Officer GSDS, Dr. Manju Rani Aggarwal, Coordinator Health Programmes GSDS, Shri Rajdeep Pathak, Programme Executive, GSDS and Shri Arvind Yadav attended the camp. The team of doctors comprising of Dr. Sunil Minj, Medical Officer In-charge, UPHC Daryaganj, Dr. Sheetal, Gynaecologist, Sister Prem Bala and Shri Ashfaque conducted the camp.
Another health camp was organized on December 15 for the slums of Bela Gaon and Rajghat Power House where almost 121 people were conducted tests for RTPCR.
At another camp organized on December 19, 2020 at Rajasthani Basti, RTPCT was conducted for 304 people by team of doctors from SDMC UPHC Daryaganj.
Fourth Anupam Mishra Memorial Lecture organized
December 22, 2020
The Individual is a Mobile Institution and has to continuously introspect: Laxmi Dass
“Organisations should be flexible. Every individual has to be independent in their functioning. This was the message of Mahatma Gandhi and Acharya Vinoba Bhawe who had laid impetus on individual development of the workers for their overall growth”, said Shri Laxmi Dass. He further added, “Every organization has to be self-dependent organization, with faith in the God. They have to realize that they have a greater role towards the welfare of the society and have to depend on the established norms”.
Shri Laxmi Dass, Vice President Harijan Sevak Sangh and Executive Member GSDS was addressing a webinar while delivering the fourth Anupam Lecture series on the theme “Sansthain Narayan Parayan Bane” (Organisations must be oriented towards the greater common good) in Gandhi Darshan on December 22, 2020.
Addressing journalists, social thinkers, academicians and youth in the webinar, Shri Laxmi Dass said that many volunteer organisations have devoted their entire framework towards serving the society in areas of rural development, women empowerment, children and others. They have reached the interior parts of the country to serve the needy. “The role of these voluntary organisations is exemplary. Even where governments could not reach, there are many such organisations and people who have reached these most underdeveloped places and have worked towards... Read More
Eworkshop on Conflict Competence through Nonviolent Communication
Conflict competence is the ability to develop and use cognitive, emotional, and behavioral skills that enhance productive outcomes of conflict while reducing the likelihood of escalation or harm. The results of conflict competence include improved quality of relationships, creative solutions, and lasting agreements for addressing challenges and opportunities in the future. As we find ourselves in different types of conflicts in our daily lives it is important how we can enhance our conflict competence.
In the E-Workshop organized by the Samiti in association with the Online University of Kyrgyzstan on November 24, 2020, the GSDS Programme Officer, Dr Vedabhyas Kundu conducting the session talked on how we can enhance our conflict competence through nonviolent communication. He talked on the attitudinal , emotional and behavioural skills needed for conflict competence and the essence of the elements of nonviolent communication in developing these skills.
The President of the Online University, Prof Ellira Turduvaeva talked on the importance of conflict competence in our daily lives. Later during the interaction with the participants there was in-depth discussion on the importance of self-awareness for conflict competence.
Webinar on Why Nonviolent Communication Matters for Peaceful Coexistence organized
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with The Catholic University of Malawi organized a webinar on “Why Nonviolent Communication – Matters for Peace Coexistence?” on November 12, 2020. Mrs. Chimwemwe Demetria Kandodo, Head Political Leadership, Department, The Catholic University of Malawi coordinated the event and presented her reflections. The key note address was delivered by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS. Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS, delivered the welcome address. Ms Shuchi Sharma, an educator and life skills trainer and a Gandhian peace builder and programme trainer at the Global Education and Leadership Foundation conducted the session with the participants. Mr. Victor Alianse Chipofya, Gandhi Consultative Forum, Malawi moderated the webinar.
Citing examples of her interaction with hundreds of participants who had undergone the certificate course on non-violent communication of the Samiti and their understanding of the concepts and practical application of the course in their day-to-day life, Ms. Shuchi highlighted that nonviolent communication “Can be a useful tool to resolve interpersonal conflict, to explore what our feelings mean, to take accountability for our actions, to improve ourselves and the way we communicate”, for which she said that a person need to develop active listening skills and understand the need of others.
Exploring Nonviolent Communication A Workshop
A session on “Exploring Nonviolent Communication” for the students of Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain was conducted on November 12, 2020 by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, GSDS who gave the key note address.
Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu spoke about serious conflicts which he said often seem impossible to escape, especially when resentment, anger, or frustration get in the way. “With Nonviolent Communication, one will be able to address problems while honouring others including oneself”, and added, “It is important to be aware of self-judgment, as well as recognize your feelings and needs as these enable you to carve the path towards self-forgiveness instead of the way that leads to guilt, shame, anger, or depression”. He further outlined that Living compassionately is also about your attitude towards life.
Launch of On-line Certificate Course on Nonviolent Communication
100 participants from the University of Liberal Arts, Bangladesh (ULAB) took part in a webinar during the launch of the On-Line Certificate Course on Nonviolent Communication organized by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti on November 19, 2020.
Initiating the discussion, Prof. Jude William R. Genilo, Professor and Head of MSJ-ULAB spoke about his organization and the value of tolerance the institution promotes. He said, “Tolerance is about opening one’s heart to others. It is about treating all humanely and goes with courage”. Terming non-violence communication as “compassionate and collaborative communication”, he further stressed on the importance of ‘negotiation and dialogue’. “The goal is to identify shared needs and being collectivistic, which develops cultural connectivity.
Echoing a similar sentiment, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS spoke about the atrocities against the vulnerable groups and said that non-violent communication can address multiple issues of conflicts amicably.
Sharing inputs on the course, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan futher said that the course is aimed to understand the needs of others and engages the participants in tools for negotiation. Terming it a “Life-skill learners self capacity building programme”, he underlined the essence of engaging in dialogue and compassion.
Drawing references from the Indian and Western philosophies, Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS spoke of methods that improves interpersonal... Read More
71st Anniversary of the Constitution of India
The Preamble constitutes the soul of the Constitution: Justice Vikramaditya Prasad
“Mahatma Gandhi is an experimental scientist who had his impact on every aspect of a person’s life and touched the soul of the nation when he reached out to the last person of the society”, said Justice (Retd) Shri Vikramaditya Prasad. He further added, “Mahatma Gandhi’s concern for persons who are in the last row of the society, helped the drafting members of the Constituent Assembly while drafting the Constitution of India”.
Justice Vikramaditya Prasad, who retired as a judge from the High Court of Jharkhand said this while delivering the key-note address at the webinar on “Influence of Mahatma Gandhi on Constitution of India” on November 26, 2020 organized by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) in association with the Gandhi Peace Club of National University of Study in Research in Law (NUSRL), Ranchi as a celebration of the 71st Constitution Day.
Addressing a gathering of almost 79 students, volunteers, faculty members of NUSRL, lawyers and several other people who joined the webinar, Justice Vikramaditya Prasad said the impact of Mahatma Gandhi’s thoughts and vision can be seen reflecting in the Constitution of India, as Gandhiji’s ideas of all aspects of human life, from socialism, to sarvodaya, to welfare of women and other issues.
Informing that the first constitution drafted by Mahatma Gandhi was princely stately of Aundhia in Maharashtra, which had 72... Read More
Reading of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution organized
As part of the celebrations to mark the 71st Constitution Day on November 26, 2020, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti organized the reading of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution in Hindi and English in both its campuses in Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat and Gandhi Smriti at Tees January Marg at 11.00 A.M. All the staff members joined in both the campuses during the ceremony.
In Gandhi Darshan, the Preamble was read in Hindi by Shri Praveen Dutt Sharma and the English text was read by Shri Rajdeep Pathak. Dr. Sailaja Gullapalli led the staff in Gandhi Smriti Prayer Ground in reading the Preamble.
Further the Preamble has also been depicted in the wall at the Gandhi Darshan complex in both the languages.
MUDITA a Workshop on Promotion of volunteerism for Constructive Work
Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), Shahed Rajguru College of Applied Sciences for Women (SRCASW), a flagship program of MHRD in association with Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti organized ‘MUDITA’, a Workshop on 'Promotion of Volunteerism for Constructive Work' on November 7, 2020. The main objectives of this program were:
• Instil amongst youth a spirit of volunteerism
• Exposition of Gandhian constructive work
• Explore & develop ideas for volunteer work
• Preparing young people to contribute to community & nation-building
• Developing capacities of young people in leadership & team-building
Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS and Shri Gulshan Gupta, GSDS Coordinator North East Programmes conducted the interactive workshop. Almost 89 participants took part in the discussion.
The essence and meaning of volunteerism were explained in a beautiful manner. The skills required for successful volunteerism like communication skills, leadership skills, public relations skills were explained in a very comprehensive manner. The importance of team spirit, trustworthiness, empathy, self confidence in volunteerism was also spoken about.
Questions like ‘When should we start volunteering? How should we volunteer? Where should we volunteer? When should we stop volunteering? Can you earn in volunteering? Does donation account to volunteering?’ etc., were addressed in the workshop. The speakers further shared their real-life... Read More
Non Violent Communication Lecture Series in association with the Central Board of Secondary Education
November 4, 2020: The focus of the lecture was on how to resolve conflicts through nonviolent communication. The talk focused on strategies of conflict resolution and the centrality of nonviolent communication in resolving disputes through win-win solutions.
November 11, 2020: The fourth lecture series with CBSE focused on Anger Management. Conducted by Shri Gulshan Gupta, North East Coordinator of GSDS programmes, the workshop focused on understanding the psychology behind anger and defusing anger. Discussions took place on various topics related to anger; from distinction between good and bad anger, to what are the factors that trigger anger more frequently in teenagers than in any other person. The audience also got to learn about the important implications of a few essential words like ego, knowledge, confidence, jealousy and most importantly success; striving to achieve one’s dreams and success is the key to distract oneself from rage and staying happy
November 18, 2020: The focus of the lecture was on understanding self through nonviolent communication. The focus was on techniques of being self-aware and how our self-talk and inner dialogue should be nonviolent in nature.
Reading of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution organized November 26, 2020
As part of the celebrations to mark the 71st Constitution Day on November 26, 2020, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti organized the reading of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution in Hindi and English in both its campuses in Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat and Gandhi Smriti at Tees January Marg at 11.00 A.M. All the staff members joined in both the campuses during the ceremony.
In Gandhi Darshan, the Preamble was read in Hindi by Shri Praveen Dutt Sharma and the English text was read by Shri Rajdeep Pathak. Dr. Sailaja Gullapalli led the staff in Gandhi Smriti Prayer Ground in reading the Preamble.
Further the Preamble has also been depicted in the wall at the Gandhi Darshan complex in both the languages.
71st Anniversary of the Constitution of India
The Preamble constitutes the soul of the Constitution: Justice Vikramaditya Prasad
“Mahatma Gandhi is an experimental scientist who had his impact on every aspect of a person’s life and touched the soul of the nation when he reached out to the last person of the society”, said Justice (Retd) Shri Vikramaditya Prasad. He further added, “Mahatma Gandhi’s concern for persons who are in the last row of the society, helped the drafting members of the Constituent Assembly while drafting the Constitution of India”.
Justice Vikramaditya Prasad, who retired as a judge from the High Court of Jharkhand said this while delivering the key-note address at the webinar on “Influence of Mahatma Gandhi on Constitution of India” on November 26, 2020 organized by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) in association with the Gandhi Peace Club of National University of Study in Research in Law (NUSRL), Ranchi as a celebration of the 71st Constitution Day.
Addressing a gathering of almost 79 students, volunteers, faculty members of NUSRL, lawyers and several other people who joined the webinar, Justice Vikramaditya Prasad said the impact of Mahatma Gandhi’s thoughts and vision can be seen reflecting in the Constitution of India, as Gandhiji’s ideas of all aspects of human life, from socialism, to sarvodaya, to welfare of women and other issues.
Informing that the first constitution drafted by Mahatma Gandhi was princely stately of Aundhia in Maharashtra, which had 72... Read More
Resisting Disinfomedic: Using Media and Information Literacy for Peaceful Coexistence
An E-conference on “Resisting Disinfomedic: Using Media and Information Literacy for Peaceful Coexistence” was organised on October 30, 2020 by GSDS in association with Indian Association of Teachers of Library and Information Science (IATLIS), Malviya Centre for Peace Research, Banaras Hindu University, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and UNESCO Chair for Peace and Intercultural Understanding (UniTwin). The key speakers who spoke on the occasion were Prof. Priyankar Upadhyaya, UniTwin; Dr. K S Arul Selvan, Associate Professor, School of Journalism & New Media Studies, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU); Prof. Anubhuti Yadav, Head Department of New Media and Information Technology, Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) and Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, GSDS. Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS delivered the welcome address. The entire proceeding of this conference was moderated by Prof. Jagtar Singh, Coordinator, Media and Information Literacy, University Network of India (MILUNI).
Delivering the key note address, Prof. Priyankar Upadhyaya said that information and media literacy has become a crucial component in the lives of the civilians. The new social media has brought transformational changes and has done wonders, but at the same time, it has come up with challenges of being misused, like any other energy becoming, in what he termed as “Cyber Frankenstein” and cautioned that society... Read More
Nonviolent Communication in Kyrgystan
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti hosted an online orientation progamme with Online University of Kyrgystan on “Nonviolent Communication” on October 20, 2020. The key speaker in this orientation programme was Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, GSDS. The welcome address was given by Dr. Elira Turbudaeva, President, Online University. 63 participants from Kyrgistan and India joined the orientation program virtually. The webinar which was live-streamed in the GSDS Facebook page was had 632 viewership’s presence. The discourse was simultaneously translated in the local language. Describing various tenets of non-violent communication, Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu spoke of the communication process not just within ourselves, but with the outside world. He said that communication can either build or mar relationship.
Referring to the Buddha, Dr. Vedabhyas quoted, “Words have both the power to destroy and heal. When words are both true and kind, they can change our world”. Citing various examples and day-to-day activities, he further outlined the necessity of positive and non-violent communication for he said, “It can either spoil relationships or unite conflicting parties. It can offer wisdom and help to a friend or a stranger or offer abuse and perpetuate hatred and negativity”. Dr. Vedabhyas outlined seven sub-basic elements of non-violent communication – understanding self; learning to communicate with ourselves; constructive inner dialogue; practicing the habit of self-... Read More
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas
To mark ‘National Unity Day’ (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas), pledge taking ceremony was organised in Gandhi Darshan on October 31, 2020 at the Kalpana Chawla Jagriti Park in Gandhi Darshan. The pledge was administered by Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS to the staff members. The 31st October is observed as the National Unity Day across the Country not only to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of National Integration of the Independent India, but also to reaffirm the commitment of the citizen of India to uphold the security, unity and integrity of the country.
Vigilance Awareness Week
As part of the Vigilance Awareness Week (October 27 to November 2), Director GSDS Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan administered the vigilance awareness pledge to the GSDS staff members on October 29, 2020. The theme this year is “Vigilant India, Prosperous India”. Observance of Vigilance Awareness Week every year during the last week of October is taken up to encourage all stakeholders to collectively participate in the prevention of, and the fight against corruption and to raise public awareness regarding the existence, causes and gravity of and the threat posed by corruption.
In the Footsteps of Mahatma, reaching out to communities through constructive dialogues
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with the Department of Social Work and IQAC, Rajagiri College of Social Science an autonomous body organized an “E-workshop on “In the Footsteps of Mahatma, reaching out to communities through constructive dialogues” on October 28, 2020. Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS inaugurated the E-workshop. The key-note address was given by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, GSDS. Principal of the College Dr. Binoy Joseph, also spoke on the occasion. Dr. M K Joseph (CMI), Assistant Professor, HOD Social Work Department of Rajagiri College delivered the welcome address. Dr. Mary Venus Joseph, Dean (Research) and Coordinator of IQAC, Rajagiri also spoke on the occasion. 72 participants took part in this webinar. Dr. Anand K moderated the session.
Welcoming the participants on behalf of the Rajagiri College, Dr. M K Joseph highlighted the needs that the COVID-19 pandemic produced and necessitated the need for focussing back to rural reconstruction and ‘gram swaraj’ which Mahatma Gandhi had espoused for, his concept of village self sufficiency and constructive programme taking everybody back to the roots that villages are safe and that local environment poses far less danger than the urban livelihood.
In his address, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan congratulated the Rajagiri College for winning the Swachhata Award and said that they are one among the torchbearers to apply the philosophies of Mahatma Gandhi practically. He... Read More
A virtual meeting for celebrations to mark the 125th Birth Anniversary of Acharya Vinoba Bhave
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) in collaboration with the Acharya Vinoba Bhave 125th Birth Celebration Citizen’s National Committee organized a virtual meeting on October 27, 2020 to discuss the modalities of celebrations to mark the 125th Birth Anniversary of Acharya Vinoba Bhave. The meeting was moderated by Dr Sanjeev Kumar.
Initiating the discussing Prof N Radhakrishnan called for working out a sustainable framework that would pay a befitting tribute to the saint who marched to provide justice to the last person, working on the visions of Mahatma Gandhi.
Taking the discussing forward, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS presented a two-phased agenda for the 125th birth anniversary celebration of Acharya Vinoba Bhave. These are:
Phase I includes celebrations via seminars and workshops, far and wide in India to generate mass awareness on the life and philosophy of Acharya Vinoba Bhawe.
Phase II he proposed should be a more tangible effort that would be taken towards land reforms. According to him, “Our tribute to the pioneer of the Bhoodan and Gramdan movement will only be successful when we would be able to reach out different states, districts, and even villages through the Panchayats and promote the policies related to land. It should be our utmost responsibility to fulfil the dream of Vinobaji by creating a land-conflict-free society”.
Practicing Mindfulness for Healthy Living
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti conducted an orientation programme on “Practicing Mindfulness for Healthy Living” on October 22, 2020. 80 participants that included children from The Aditya Birla Group of School at Renu Sagar Uttar Pradesh, GSDS staff members attended the orientation programme conducted by Ms. Surbhee Singh, ICF Certified Coach, NLP Master Practitioner. Delivering the key note address, Ms. Surbhee Singh dealt with both practical as well as theoretical solutions as she pointed out the reasons for stress in what she referred to ‘expectations’ that have increased and so are the challenges, which have necessitated the need for mindfulness training in this age.
A charkha demonstration at Jantar Mantar
Eight spinners from Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti participated in a charkha demonstration at Jantar Mantar on October 2, 2020 in a programme hosted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on October 2, 2020 to highlight the message of simplicity and economic independence that Mahatma Gandhi aroused amongst the citizens during the freedom struggle. In total 16 portable spinning wheels were placed to educate and inform people about the thread spinning activity and its connection with Mahatma Gandhi during the programme.
The Samiti had also set up an exhibition of books on and by Mahatma Gandhi including various other GSDS publications during the programme. Representatives of the GSDS also taught visitors to spin on the charkha. The programme was coordinated by Smt. Geeta Shuka, Research Officer. Mr. Manish, Mr. Krishan, My Shyam Lal, Ms. Smita Bhan, Shri Ganesh, Shri Arun Saini and Ms. Neha Arora took part in the programme.
CBSE launched online course on nonviolent communication
In a major initiative to reach out to students, teachers, principals and parents from across the country, the Samiti in association with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), launched its ongoing free online course on nonviolent communication. The Samiti has been running the course since April 2020 and with the collaboration with CBSE it is expected to reach the length and breadth of the country.
The initiative was part of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. CBSE has issued notification to all its affiliated schools across the country. As part of the endeavour, the Samiti will be organizing weekly lectures based on the course for teachers, students and parents.
Already 70,000 participants have enrolled for this course. Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS who had structured and developed the entire course is conducting this orientation programme with different schools, universities not only in India, but abroad too.
As part of its online course on nonviolent communication, the Samiti is organizing a weekly lecture series with the Central Board of Secondary Education. The first lecture series was organized on October 21, 2020 which provided a general introduction to nonviolent communication.
The second lecture was organized on October 29, 2020 and it focussed on how we can encourage nonviolent communication ecosystems for peaceful schools. The GSDS Programme Officer, Dr Vedabhyas Kundu delivered both the lectures.
151st birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi offered rich tributes to Mahatma Gandhi in Gandhi Smriti on October 2, 2020 on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, commemorating the 151st birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and International Day of Non-Violence. In view of the COVID-19 pandemic, as per MHA protocol, only 100 invitees attended the programme and paid their tribute to the Father of the Nation. Secretary Ministry of Culture, Shri Raghavendra Singh; Joint Secretary Ministry of Culture, Smt. Nirupama Kotru; granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi and former Vice-Chairperson GSDS, Smt. Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee also remembered Gandhiji in their own solemn way. Representatives from various Embassies and High Commissions took part in the programme.
The evening prayer meet began by telecasting a short film by Doordarshan Kendra, which was followed by the telecast of an initiative by DDK and GSDS The Mahatma in Me (Mujh Me Hai Mahatma) wherein almost 200 video entries were received from across the country on people’s understanding of the life, message and philosophies of Mahatma Gandhi on four different categories. The 25-minute documentary featured change ideas from participants of different age groups, young and old besides how they have imbibed the ideals as espoused by Mahatma Gandhi in their daily life.
Inter-faith prayer by leaders from different religious groups such as Buddhism, Christian, Islam, Zoroastrianism, Sikhism, Judaism, Bahai, Shabad Kirtan marked the... Read More
The relevance of Gandhijis ideas in todays era
As part of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Delhi Public Library (DPL) and GSDS organised a seminar on “The relevance of Gandhiji’s ideas in today’s era” on September 26, 2020. The virtual seminar was chaired by Dr. Ramsharan Gaur, President of Delhi Public Library Board. The other speakers included Shri Subhash Chandra Kankheria, President, Programme Committee and Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director, GSDS.
Delivering the keynote address, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan spoke on the exemplary life of Mahatma Gandhi and said that it is not merely a life, but an ideal principle which people should follow. Throwing insights into the concept of nonviolence, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan spoke on the historic Champaran Satyagraha which he said was truly a fight for the rights of the farmers and further pointed that the governments of all time have given importance to the welfare of the farmers. He also spoke on the New Education Policy and hoped that different stakeholders and educational institutions would once again teach different vocations to children in order to empower them, in what he called, “Opening the scope for entrepreneurship”. He also shared his thoughts on how technology has impacted and benefitted all of us and called for sustainable living in this time of COVID-19. Reiterating his firm faith in what Gandhiji would have done during COVID-19 pandemic, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan further laid importance of selfless service towards humankind and said that mission... Read More
The Mahatma in Me
As a culmination to the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, GSDS and Doordarshan collaborated together in a unique initiative from September 13-20, 2020 of inviting video entries from participants all across the country on their understanding of the enigmatic life of Mahatma Gandhi and how they have imbibed the Gandhian values in their lives. The programme in both Hindi and English entitled ‘Mujh Me Hai Mahatma’ and ‘The Mahatma in Me’ invited entries on any one of the following subjects – 1. How do I Practice Non-Violence in my Daily Life? 2. How do I contribute towards a culture a peace? 3. The most important Gandhian value which the world should follow today and 4. What is the most important thing I learnt from the life of Mahatma Gandhi?
Almost 200 entries were received as part of the initiative, for which the Doordarshan Kendra also made a promo of the same in their national network. The programme was launched on October 2, 2020 commemorating the 151st birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and was presented by the Doordarshan through its DD National and DD Bharati channels during the live telecast of the inter-faith prayer meeting from Gandhi Smriti on October 2.
Swachhatta Pakhwara
The Samiti organised the ‘Swachhatta Pakhwara’ from September 16-30, 2020. During this period, awareness on cleanliness was highlighted by the Samiti through its social media platforms. Further initiatives by the GSDS staff were also taken towards uplift of both the Gandhi Smriti and Gandhi Darshan campuses where staff led by the Director GSDS Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan participated in a cleanliness drive on September 26, 2020. Also all the in-house staff participated in a massive cleaning of the Gandhi Darshan campus in the lawns. Each staff also cleaned their respective offices during this period.
Hindi Pakhwara
The Samiti organised the ‘Hindi Pakhwara’ from September 14-28, 2020 in both the campuses of the GSDS – Gandhi Smriti and Gandhi Darshan respectively. On account of COVIC-19, on-line competitions such as Essay Writing on “Gandhi aur Hindi” and poetry writing “Rashtriya Ekta Ka Pratik Hindi” were organised in which the staff of the GSDS took active part.
Imperatives of Human Solidarity in times of Global Pandemic Crisis
The Malviya Centre of Peace Research (MCPR), UNESCO Chair for Peace and Intercultural Understanding Banaras Hindu University and Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti organised an international webinar on “Imperatives of Human Solidarity in times of Global Pandemic Crisis” on September 14-15, 2020.
On Day one, the conference began with the welcome address given by Smt. Geeta Shukla, Research Officer, GSDS. 80 participants took part in the webinar. Prof. Priyankar Upadhyaya, UNESCO Chair for Peace, Malviya Centre for Peace Research, FSS, BHU who chaired the session. The other speakers in the two-day deliberations included: Ms. Veronika Yarnykh, UNESCO Chair on Media and Information Literacy and Media Education of Citizens Moscow Pedagogical State University; Dr. M. Satish Kumar, Director Internationalization School of Natural and Built Environment Culture and Society; Ms. Milena Dragidevic Sesic, UNESCO Chair in Studies of Interculturalism Art and Cultural Management and Mediation in the Balkans; Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS and Dr. Manoj K Mishra Coordinator (MCPR).
Day two included the “Young Researchers Forum” where speakers from different parts of the world shared their ideas. The speakers included: Mr. Razafimamonjy Faniriantosoa Rindranirina from Antananarivo University Madagascar; Ms. Jyoti Singh PhD student from Bahasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan (India); Ms. Hsin Yen Phoebe Mok Master –Graduate School of International Peace Studies, Soka University... Read More
Mahatma Gandhis journey through Europe and Africa in the Shaping of his philosophy of Swaraj through Satyagraha
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) in association with Antar Rashtriya Sahayog Parishad (ARSP), Diaspora Research and Resource Centre (DRRC) organised a virtual international conference on “Mahatma Gandhi’s journey through Europe and Africa in the Shaping of his philosophy of Swaraj through Satyagraha” on September 12, 2020. Shri V Muraleedharan Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India was the chief guest on the occasion. 65 participants took part in the webinar that included speakers such as Smt. Ela Gandhi, Chairperson Gandhi Development Trust (Durban), South Africa who delivered the key note address; Amb. Virendra Gupta, President (ARSP); Amb. Anup Mudgal, Chairman, DRRC; Shri Dipanker Shru Gyan, Director GSDS in the inaugural session that was chaired by SHri Shyam Parande, Secretary General ARSP.
The second session was chaired by Amb. Anup Mudgal and had speakers such as Dr. Armoogum Parsuramen, Founder-President, Global Rainbow Foundation, Mauritius; Prof. Emeritys Satendra Nanda, Writer-Academic and former Fijian Parliamentarian and Cabinet Minister; Dr. Rajendran T. Govender, Social Coalition Advocate, Government of South Africa and Mr. Niroda Bramdaw, renowned journalist, author and publisher. Shri Narayan Kumar, Hon. Director ARSP and Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS were also present on the occasion.
International programmes in August
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with Ateneo de Davao University, Philippines organized an e-workshop on, “The significance of Non-violent communication in Understanding the Self” on August 01, 2020. Approximately 97 students from different disciplines such as sociology, psychology and anthropology of the respective university had enthusiastically participated in this interactive session. The session ended with the question-answer round shared in between Dr. Kundu and the participants such as – How can Non-violent communication be applied in this pandemic?; How to convince someone to be positive or to gain compassion if his experience is disrupting him to be positive or be compassionate?, etc. Dr. Kundu answered all of the questions and cleared their doubts one by one.
On August 13, 2020, International Centre of Gandhian Studies and Peace Research of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, organized the 4th International E-dialogue on Peace Education – Building a just and Peaceful Future. The programme was mentored by Prof. Vidya Jain (Convenor, Non-Violence Commission, IPRA); chaired by Dr.Janet Gerson (Education Director, International Institute on Peace Education, USA) including individual sessions by Prof. Tony Jenkins (Managing Director, International Institute on Peace Education, USA), Prof Herbert B Rosana (Associate Dean, Graduate School, Bicol University, Philippines) and Dr. Steve Sharra (Education Policy Analyst and Peace Education, Malawi). 62... Read More
PROGRAMMES IN OTHER STATES IN AUGUST
As part of its initiative to provide COVID-19 safety kit to different parts of the country as per requirement, the Samiti on August 22, 2020 sent Covid safety kit with 10,000 cotton masks and 200 pieces of oximeter to Bhagalpur, Bihar. The kits are proposed for distribution to Munger, Baka, Bhagalpur and Jamui. Shri Mukund Milind coordinated the programme.
The Samiti in association with the Lupin Human Welfare Organisation, Bharatpur Rajasthan as part of its initiative towards providing Covid-19 safety kit to different parts of the country had sent kits to Bihar for distribution. These safety kits were distributed in a small function in Jamui Bihar on August 23, 2020. The distribution programme for the health workers and social workers was led by senior member of the Farmers and Fertilizer Production Organization Arjun Mandal. Several people including Dr. D K Dhusia, Medical Officer In-charge, Health Manager Shri Mahesh Ranjan were present on the occasion.
The COVID-19 safety kit by GSDS and Lupin Human Welfare Organiation was also distributed in Haveli Kharagpur District of Munger on August 30, 2020. Shri Basant Singh, former advisor to GSDS coordinated this initiative. PPE Kits, masks, oximeter, hand gloves, hand sanitizers, face shields were distributed amongst the villagers and health care workers in Teliadiah.
GSDS and Lupin Human Welfare Organisation distributed Covid-19 safety-kit was also distributed in different districts of Chattisgarh... Read More
Nurturing Happiness through Nonviolent Communication
The Samiti in association with the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism, Eliezer Joldan Memorial (EJM) College, Leh, organised a e-conference on the theme “Nurturing Happiness through Nonviolent Communication” on August 28, 2020 with Prof. Deskyong Namgyal, Principal EJM College; Shri Gulshan Gupta, North East Coordinator, GSDS as the main speakers. Assistant Professor of EJM College, Ms. Hajira Bano moderated the session. 35 participants took part in this session. Through various examples from daily life on how to conduct one and how to frame one’s communication, Shri Gulshan Gupta spoke on the essence of words that have both the power to destroy and heal. He also quoted Mahatma Gandhi who had said that “The force of love is the same as the force of the soul or truth…”
Impact of Mahatma Gandhi in our Education Policy
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti on August 19, 2020 organized an e-webinar on Impact of Mahatma Gandhi in our Education Policy where Shri Vijoy Prakash, IAS (Retd.), and Prof. P. K. Mishra, IIT BHU addressed the gathering of almost 54 participants on “Entrepreneurship through Innovation for students of marginalized communities” and “From Lab to Land: Innovation and it’s practical implications in Educational Institutions: A Gandhian Approach”. The programme was moderated by Ms. Mansi Sharma who argued the need to build an ethical and rational character among the children of this country, as she said that “In the next decade India will have the highest youth population in the world. And, therefore we are here to discuss what exactly the New Education Policy of India talk about and how is it extracted from the ideas of Mahatma Gandhi?”
The Role of Indigenous Folk Traditions in Value Creation
The Samiti in association with Raja Narendra Lal Khan Women’s College, West Bengal organised an E-conference on “The Role of Indigenous Folk Traditions in Value Creation” on August 18, 2020. 138 participants took part in the e-conference that was addressed by chief guest Shri Giridhar Gamang, former Chief Minister of Odisha. The other distinguished speakers at the webinar included Padmashri Shri Akshok Bhagat, Founder Secretary, Vikas Bharti, Bishunpur, Jharkhand and National Awardee Jhumur singer and choreographer Ms. Madhushree Hatial, Jhumur Singer. The programme focused on the rich folk traditions of the tribals and how it is important for the new generation to know the values that have preserved this rich heritage. Ms. Kanak Kaushik of GSDS moderated the discussion.
74th Independence Day
Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan hoisted the Tricolour in Gandhi Darshan on August 15, 2020 on the occasion of the 74th Independence Day. The celebration culminated with GSDS staff in residential quarters taking part in the programme. Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan called upon the staff to contribute towards nation-building and attain different sustainable skills that would go a long way in making one self-reliant. The sound of Jana Gana Man, the National Anthem reverberated in the pleasant morning as an inspiration to all.
