Amidst lockdown in both the campuses in Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat and Gandhi Smriti at 5, Tees January Marg, staff of the GSDS who were on duty took the cleanliness drive in their hands and cleaned both the campuses on April 26, 2021. In Gandhi Darshan, under the supervision of Shri Mohit Mohan, the work was undertaken. In Gandhi Smriti, Dr. Sailaja Gullapalli coordinated the cleanliness drive.
GSDS Programmes
Cleanliness drive in Gandhi Darshan and Gandhi Smriti
Planning meeting regarding IGNOU-GSDS Dialogue series
A meeting was organised by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) with the officials and staff of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Regional Centre-2 on April 24, 2021 to discuss on the forthcoming GSDS-IGNOU lecture series that is being initiated as part of the 75th anniversary celebrations of Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav.
During the meeting it was discussed on the different areas and subjects on which the lecture would be organised. A presentation was also made by Shri Gulshan on the suggested topics that could form part of the lecture series.
Going by the present pandemic and people who are under mental stress, it was agreed upon to launch the lecture series with Human Interconnectedness and Happiness as the first subject.
Workshop on Non-Violent Communication
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with Apeejay Stya University, Gurugra, organised a workshop on “Non-Violent Communication” on April 20, 2021. The other collaborating partners were National Service Scheme and Rotaract Club. Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS conducted the session where he outlined the importance of non-violent communication which he told not only, ‘Helps in emotional bridge-building, but also is an important tool to resolve disputes and conflicts”. He spoke on the elements of non-violent communication and the essence of establishing communication where he drew inferences from the Buddhist principles, the Gandhian thinkers, Marshal Rosenberg and others during the interactive session.
Planning Meeting on developing course on Community Mediation
A planning meeting on developing a certificate course on “Community Mediation” was organised by GSDS chaired by Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS on April 12, 2021 with the National University of Study and Research in Law (NUSRL) to develop a course on ‘Community Mediation’. The aim is to conduct a series of dialogue on ‘Mediation’ with NUSRL, besides organising regular e-workshops. The Vice-Chancellor of NUSRL, Prof. Kesava Rao took part in the discussion. Faculty members of NUSRL and GSDS officials took part in the meeting.
Planning Meeting on developing course on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Well-being
An on-line planning meeting on “Developing a course on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Well-being” was organised by GSDS in association with Government Degree College, Kargil on April 12, 2021. During the meeting chaired by the Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, it was proposed to establish “Gandhi Peace Research Centre” to specifically cater to issues on health and other allied areas by involving local researchers and students of the college. The idea that was mooted was to conduct four to five months’ research with proper documentation, which would be followed by launching of a certificate course for the college students.
In addition to this, an on-line certificate course on Non-Violent Communication was also proposed by the GSDS for the college students.
Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan also proposed for a research and documentation on local freedom fighters and their contribution in India’s freedom struggle as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav celebrating the 75 years of India’s Independence.
Webinar on Dispute Free Villages
Reputation of teachers in villages still exists: Dipanker Shri Gyan
As part of the 75th anniversary celebrations of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav’, the Samiti initiated a dialogue on different aspects of ‘Mediation’ and the ‘Role of Mediation in making Villages Dispute Free’. In his endeavour, a webinar was organised with the teachers of Rajkiya Buniyadi Vidyalaya, Brindavan Ashram, West Champaran on April 10, 2021 on “Making villages dispute free for peaceful development of village”. The webinar was moderated by Shri Rajdeep Pathak.
Initiating the discussion, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan mentioned that for any development, peace and solidarity is necessary. More than anything else, it is equanimity or sameness that is essential for development to take place.
Citing many examples of where conflict or disputes can hinder development, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan based his thoughts on his personal experiences of almost twenty two years’ working closely with various administration machineries in different areas of the government both at the centre and the states. He said that unless there is one thought, one common ground and unanimous decision, development cannot take place, but said that even if there some dispute arises, the people of the village, instead of stretching it further, must sit with the administration and point the lacunae for its rectification.
“Sometimes petty issues which may take the shape of serious consequences can and should be sorted out by... Read More
Workshop on Mediation
Need to prevent dispute from taking a negative turn: Dipanker Shri Gyan
Mediation is a process of negotiation which includes a third party. This third party could be a professional mediator, it could be another person, it could be a group of people or even an institution which is involved in such a dispute. Mediation can happen both at personal level as well as institutional level. This way is shaped by one’s own philosophy, educational background and how one has been formed into a mediator. Moreover peer mediation is a process where in the school scenario, trained students act as neutral mediators. These students work with their peers to uncover the root causes of any disputes amongst them and decide on fair ways of resolving a conflict.
In this backdrop, as part of the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti organised a workshop on “Mediation” with representatives of various schools from Bihar and Varanasi on April 9, 2021. Principals and teachers from Rajkiya Buniyadi Vidyalaya, Brindavan, West Champaran; Kasturba Balika Vidyalaya, Bithiharwa, Champaran, Kasturba Balika Vidyalaya Intermediate College, Varanasi took part in the interactive workshop conducted by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu who said that GSDS proposes to take this programme on Mediation will start with schools and reach villages for ‘dispute free villages’ and further to the national level.
In his key-note address, Director GSDS, Shri... Read More
A seminar on Satyagraha and Swaraj
As part of the celebrations to mark the 91st anniversary of the historic Dandi March and the 75 years of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav, GSDS in association with Rajkiya Buniyadi Vidyalaya Brindaban School at West Champaran organised a seminar on “Satyagraha and Swaraj” on March 12, 2021 at Brindaban, Champaran, Bihar. Shri Sanjay Jaiswal, Hon’ble Member of Parliament from Bihar and Hon'ble Member of Bihar Legislative Assembly Shri Umakant Singh were the distinguished guests on the occasion. Teachers and students of the school that was established by Mahatma Gandhi took part in the programme very enthusiastically.
A padyatra was also taken out by the teachers and students of the school to Bapu Kutir. Shri Sanjay Jaiswal and Shri Umakant Singh led the yatra.
Commemorating the 91st anniversary of the historic Dandi March
Hon'ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi flagged off a symbolic 386-kilometre – 25-day long 'Dandi March' from Ahmedabad, which will culminate on April 6 at Dandi in Navsari district from Sabarmati on March 12, 2021, commemorating the 91st anniversary of the historic Dandi March. Shri Narendra Modi also launched the 'Azaadi ka Amrit Mahotsav' event on the occasion. The mahotsav will continue till August 15, 2023. India will celebrate the 75th Independence Day on August 15, 2022.
The honourable Minister of Culture and Vice-Chairman GSDS Shri Prahlad Singh also began his padyatra (march) on this occasion from Sabarmati to Nandiad. Leading a team of almost 27volunteers from Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti along with Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan and other officials, Shri Prahlad Singh Patel will cover a distance of 75 kilometres before reaching Nadiad. Before reaching Nandiad, he will cover places such as Chandola Talav; Aslali, Bareja, Navagam, Wasna, Matar and Dabhan.
Participating in the yatra are Smt. Geeta Shukla, Research Officer, GSDS, Shri Rizwan Ur Rahman, Shri Jagdish Prasad, Shri Arbindo Mohanty, Shri Dilip Kumar, Shri Narendra Kumar, Shri Yatendra Singh, Shri Praveen Dutt Sharma, Shri Piyush Haldar, Shri Vivek Kumar, Shri Deepak Tiwari, Shri Deepak Pandey, Shri Sunil, Shri Naveen, Shri Mahendra Singh, Shri Dharam Pal, Shri Rakesh Sharma, Shri Harendra, Shri Ganesh, Shri Manish, Shri Dhanraj, Shri Manish Kumar, Shri Dharamraj Kumar... Read More
Inaugurated the bronze statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Ram Manohar Lohia and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya
Hon’ble President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind virtually inaugurated the bronze statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Ram Manohar Lohia and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya at Belatal Damoh on March 7, 2021. The statues have been sculpted by eminent sculptor Padmashri Shri Ram Sutar and Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti initiated the making of the statues and their installation too.
The hon’ble President also inaugurated the conservation works at Singorgarh Fort in Damoh district at Madhya Pradesh, and laid the foundation stone for the conservation works of Singorgarh Fort in Singrampur village of Damoh district in Madhya Pradesh. He further inaugurated the newly carved Jabalpur Circle of Archaeological Survey of India. Hon’ble Madhya Pradesh Governor Her Excellency Smt Anandi Ben Patel, Chief Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism (Independent Charge) and Vice-Chairperson GSDS, Shri Prahlad Singh Patel, Union Minister of State for Steel Shri Faggan Singh Kulaste, Madhya Pradesh Minister for Tribal Affairs Department Shri Meena Singh Mandwe and Minister for Urban Development and Housing Department Shri Bhupendra Singh were also present on this occasion.
The hon’ble President also addressed the State Level Tribal Conference at Singrampur village in Damoh. The program was organized by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India and the Tribal Affairs Department of Madhya Pradesh. Shri Ram Nath Kovind also paid floral tributes at the statue... Read More
Dialogue with Kyrgyzstan on reflections on peace
The Samiti organised a session with Online University of Kyrgyzstan on February 5, 2021 with participants who had undertaken the course and sessions on “Non-violent communication” designed by the GSDS. Participants shared their experiences of their understanding on the course study and reflected on how they would take it forward in their daily life. The theme of the dialogue was “Peace Matters” where the following participants presented their ideas. They were: Nuzriza Abdumuhamed; Nurhan Orozbaeva; Gulzada Sydkova; Eliza Turusbava; Sezim Sagynbekova; Ainisa Keneshbekova; Kamiljan Kyzy Havaskhon; Elvira Iskakova; Guliza Tillanova; Gulsaira Mahmadsabyr and Eliza Omurzakova. Prof. Elira Turdubaeva, President Online University of Kyrgyzstan coordinated the discussion. Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Prigramme Officer, GSDS conducted the session with the participants.
SERIES ON DIALOGUE ON MEDIATION
Mediation is a process of negotiation which includes a third party. This third party could be a professional mediator, it could be another person, it could be a group of people or even an institution which is involved in such a dispute. Mediation can happen both at personal level as well as institutional level. This way is shaped by one’s own philosophy, educational background and how one has been formed into a mediator. In order to be a mediator, one needs to let go of many unwanted things in this process.
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti organised a five-part series of “Dialogue on Mediation” with both national and international experts. Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, GSDS and Ms. Mansi Sharma from Punjab University took part in the discussion and also moderated the session.
• Series I – Specialist in Alternative Mechanisms for Conflict Resolution from Peru, Mr. Gustavo Anay Centeno and TEDx Speaker and expert on Peace and Conflict Studies, Ms. Elizabeth Katherine Gararra from Japan were the speakers on February 6, 2021.
Sharing their perspectives, Gustavo said: “As a specialist in the field of mediation I have travelled to different parts of Latin America and I have observed that in order to mediate you don’t necessarily need to be a lawyer or be within the legal field”, adding, “Mediators are the middle part and with active listening they can really get to understand people’s needs at much deeper level. A good mediator is one that really... Read More
E-Workshop on A Journey to Volunteering
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with Bangabasi Morning College (BMC), Kolkata organised an e-workshop on “On a journey to volunteering” on February 27, 2021. Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS conducted the session. Dr. Tulika Chakravorty, Assistant Professor and NSS Program Officer, BMC Kolkata also spoke on the occasion. In his addresses, while discussing the different dimensions of volunteering and its importance in the role of societal development Dr. Vedabhyas KUndu said, “Volunteering is the fundamental building block of civil society. It brings to life the noblest aspiration of humankind-the pursuit of peace, freedom, opportunity, safety and justice for all people”, and said that all people in the world should have the right to freely offer their time, talent and energy to others and to their communities.
He further said that “Volunteering is all about contributing out of one’s own free will. But an effective and responsible volunteer cannot make choices on the fly” and added, “To be a good volunteer, discovering and honoring the self is crucial”.
Padmashri Dr. Kailash Madbaiya felicitated
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti joined hands with Gandhi Global Foundation in felicitating Padma Shri awardee Dr. Kailash Madbaiya on February 27, 2021 in Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat. Shri Gulshan Gupta, North East Coordinator of GSDS felicitated Dr. Kailash Madbaiya at a ceremony in which General Secretary of Gandhi Global Foundation Shri Hardayal Kushwaha, senior journalist Mahendra Yadav and others were also present.
Speakers at the function while speaking of Dr. Kailash Madbaiya mentioned on how he had revived Bundeli literature despite all his administrative engagements, which they felt is incomparable, and an inspiration to lovers of Hindi dialects.
A tree plantation programme was also organised on the occasion where Mr. Madbaiya planted a tree in the memory of the freedom fighters Chandrashekhar Azad and Sant Ravidas ji.
Among others who were present on the occasion included: social worker and convenor of Bundelkhand Development Council Shri Adish Kumar Jain, Director of the program convenors Shri Rashid Ahmad Mansuri, Shri Sandeep Mandwagadhi and Shri Rahul Singh. Pali Culture Foundation President Narottam Ranariddh Kushwaha was also present.
Tributes to Ba pour in from Varanasi
Kasturba Mahila Vidyapeeth Intermediate College, Sewapuri, Varanasi in association with Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, New Delhi, paid rich tributes to Kasturba Gandhi on her 77th death anniversary on February 22, 2021 in Varanasi. Principal of the school, Smt. Anita Singh, teachers and students joined in remembering Ba on her Nirvan Diwas. Songs and prayers marked the occasion.
Tihar inmates pay their tribute to Ba through art
GSDS observed the 77th death anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi on February 22, 2021 in association with Tihar Prisons CJ-4 and Inner Wheel Club of Delhi Achievers involving inmates who paid tributes to luminaries of the freedom struggle – Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi and Acharya Vinoba Bhawe through their paintings. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Manju Aggarwal at CJ-4. 48 inmates from CJ-4 School of Arts took part in the programme.
Kasturba Gandhi remembered on her 77th Nirvan Divas
As a tribute to Kasturba Gandhi on her 77th death anniversary, Director Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan led the GSDS staff in paying tribute to Kasturba Gandhi in Gandhi Darshan on February 22, 2021. Floral tributes were offered on the occasion to ‘Ba’, as Kasturba Gandhi was popularly called. The programme concluded with Ram Dhun and a two-minute silent tribute.
EWorkshop on Peer Mediation: An Approach to Constructive Dispute Resolution
Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) , SRCASW, a flagship program of MHRD and departments of English and Biochemistry in association with Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti is organizing 'MUDITA' - Workshop on ‘Peer Mediation: An Approach to Constructive Dispute Resolution on February 18, 2021. The main objective of this dialogue was to develop meditation capabilities amongst young people and ensure harmonious transformation of relationships. The eminent speakers of the workshop included: Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, GSDS; Mr. Gulshan Gupta, North-east Coordinator, GSDS.
Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu during his interaction asked them about the conflicts they face and how they resolved them. Then he explained the importance of peer mediation and how to effectively be a peer mediator. He also discussed the qualities that are necessary for a peer mediator. He very beautifully linked non-violence and peer mediation.
Mr. Gulshan Gupta in his presentation said that mediation is also only possible when the other parties want to mediate. Also, he explained how one can help when situations are such that one cannot act as a mediator due to age differences like between children and parents. He also said that sometimes we need to give the parties time and space to sort things out instead of actively resolving.
Health Awareness programme in Tihar conducted
A health awareness programme was conducted in Central Jail No 4 by GSDS on February 16, 2021. Dr Manju Aggarwal who conducted the awareness programme, also distributed masks from Lupin Human Research and Welfare Organisation to the inmates. Superintendent Shri Rajkumar, Deputy Superintendent Shri Manmohan and Warder Shri Amarjeet were present on the occasion. A health talk was also given by Dr. Aggarwal to the inmates.
Covid-19 Health Camps organised
GSDS in association with team of doctors from UPHC Daryaganj organised a health awareness camp at Rajghat Bus Depot No 1, Rajghat for the DTC mechanics. 51 RTPCR tests were conducted on February 3, 2021. Dr. Manju Aggarwal coordinated this event on behalf of GSDS.
6th International EDialogue on Promoting Conflict Competence through Gandhian Approach of Communication
The Samiti in association with Amity School of Communication organised the 6th International E-Dialogue on “Promoting Conflict Competence through Gandhian Approach of Communication” on January 20, 2021. The main agenda of discussion was, the importance of non-violent communication in resolving a conflict. This program was coordinated by Dr. Anshu Arora (Associate Professor, Amity School of Communication). The panel consisted of various speakers such namely, Prof. Simon Howden (Australia), Prof. Drissia Chouit (Morrocco), Ms. Elizabeth Katherine Gamarra (Japan) , Prof. Fatima Haidari (Afghanistan), Mr. Dipanker Shri Gyan (Director GSDS), Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu (Programme Officer, GSDS) and Dr. Anshu Arora.
Revisiting Gandhian Ethics in Contemporary Era
14. The fifth international e-dialogue on “Revisiting Gandhian Ethics in Contemporary Era” was organised by GSDS on January 18, 2021. Speakers at the dialogue included: Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti who delivered the welcome address; Smt. Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee, former Vice-Chairperson GSDS who delivered the special address and Dr. Vidya Jain, Convener, Nonviolence Commission, International Peace Research Association (IPRA). Prof. Lester R. Kurtz, Professor of Public Sociology at George Mason University, U.S.A delivered the key note address. The session also saw two young speakers – Ms. Yen Phoebe Mok Hsin from Soka University, Japan and Shri Vidur Bharatram, Photographer and Film Maker share their perspectives. Dr. N Radhakrishnan, Gandhian thinker, peace-activist, educator and author and Former Director, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti chaired the session.
In his key note address, Prof. Lester Kurtz, speaking on Gandhian Ethics: A Sociological Perspective, points out at the ethical paradoxes or opposites. For example, Gandhi was a warrior for justice, pacifist and non-violent activist. He brought ‘Cultural Revolution’ through nonviolent constructive work. Some of the interesting paradoxes drawn by Mr. Kurtz include the dimensions of warrior-pacifist, spiritual-material, traditional-modern, rights-duties, individual-collective, ethics-economics, theory-practice, means-ends and resist and construct. He points out that Gandhi’... Read More
Covid19 Health Camps organised
11. Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti organised COVID-19 Health awareness camp in Unnati Girls Rainbow Home, Tees Hazari in association with the South MCD. Lab Technician Mr. Ashfaque conducted the RTPCR tests to 36 children from the Home and distributed GSDS-Lupin masks. The Programme organised on January 16, 2021 was coordinated by Dr. Manju Aggarwal from GSDS.
12. Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti organised COVID-19 Health awareness camp in association with the South MCD in several places on January 21, 2021. 101 people were tested for RTPCR today in Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses (SPYM) Daryaganj, Civic Centre, Delhi, Ansari Road Daryaganj and Parda Bagh. GSDS-Lupin Face mask were distributed near DM Officer Parda Bagh by GSDS. Mr. Ashfaque conducted the RTPCR tests. The Programme was coordinated by Dr. Manju Aggarwal from GSDS.
13. COVID-19 RTPCR test was conducted for 150 people by GSDS on January 27, 2021 in association with UPHC Daryaganj as a prelude to the preparation for January 30th 2021 in Gandhi Smriti. Dr. Manju Aggarwal coordinated this test on behalf of GSDS.
ACTIVITIES OF THE SAMITI DURING THE MONTH OF JANUARY 2021
1. “Gandhiji said that my patriotism originates from my religion. I will understand my religion and become a good patriot and inspire others to do the same.” This was said by Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat. Shri Bhagwat was speaking on the occasion of the release of the book 'Making of a Hindu Patriot' organized at Gandhi Darshan at Rajghat on January 1, 2021. Authored by Dr. Jitendra Kumar Bajaj and Prof. M D Srinivas, the book has been published by Centre for Policy Studies in association with Har Anand Publishers. Dr. Mohan Bhagwat released the book containing 1043 pages on the occasion. Speaking to an august gathering that included scholars, academicians, social thinkers, Dr. Bhagwat said that Gandhiji had expressed his views about religion and said that my religion is the religion of all religions, that is, the religion that carries all religions together is my religion.
2. Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with Women’s Peace Builders Network, Cameroon organised a webinar on “Enhancing Conflict Competence through Nonviolent Communication” on January 11, 2021. The programme was chaired by Ms. Adah Mbah Muyang, Coordinator, Women’s Peace-builders Network. Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS delivered the key note address.
In his address, Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu said that when we use Nonviolent Communication (NVC) for conflict resolution, the results are often transformative and long lasting. He also focussed on developing strong... Read More
E-Workshop on Human Interconnectedness and Nonviolent Communication
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.
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.
