GSDS Programmes

Srijan – Entrepreneurial Centre RPL Training Programme for Champaran Auto Drivers Conducted for Batch 14-17

As part of the initiative of the Pradhanmantri Skill Development Mission, the Samiti’s Skill Development Centre organised the RPL training programme for the auto drivers of Champaran in Bihar in Gandhi Darshan on April 2, 4, 16, 25, 2018 respectively for 14th, 15th, 16th and 17th and batches respectively with the objective to recognise prior competencies of the assessed candidates and provide certificate and monetary reward on successful completion of the assessments.

The following were the resource persons who addressed the RPL trainees: Shri Prashant Srivastava, Dr. Manju Aggawrwal, Shri Prawan Kumar, Shri Lalan Ram, Shri Viswas Gautam.

Nelson Mandela’s Eternal Concept of ‘Truth’ and ‘Love’ Reiterated

To mark the 100th birth anniversary of Shri Nelson Mandela, a lecture on “Nelson Mandela in the Footsteps of Gandhi: Centenary Tributes” was jointly organized by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) and Zakir Husain Delhi College within the premises of later on July 27, 2018.

Prof. N. Radhakrishnan, Chairman, Indian Council of Gandhian Studies including two other eminent speakers namely Dr. Uma Shankar, Dean Political Science Department and Dr. Ramesh Mishra (Faculty Member, Shyamlal college).The session was coordinated by Dr. Sanjeev Kumar (Faculty Member, Zakir Husain Delhi College) and Ms. Tripta (Faculty Member, Zakir Husain Delhi College) whilst attended by almost 70 students.

The session began with the students presenting an insight to the life of Shri Nelson Mandela. Ms. Tanya Arora gave a presentation on “A Brief Introduction on the life of Madiba”. Whereas, Ms. Alia and Ms. Deepshikha recited poems titled: “A Confession” and “A Positive Power” penned down by Ms. Syeda Rumana Mehdi.

Mr. Harshit threw light on the moral dimension behind the journey of Mahatma and Madiba and Ms. Madiha Akhter talked about the constraints of Peace and Ms. Khushboo described that how Nelson Mandela become the first black man in white man’s coat.

Dr.Vedabhyas Kundu (Programme Officer, GSDS) outlined the essence of Madiba’s life and asked the participating to self-introspect while walking through the footsteps of Shri Nelson Mandela. He also stressed that... Read More

Nelson Mandela: An Icon of Peace and Courage for the Entire Humanity – Prof. N. Radhakrishnan

The Samiti paid rich tributes to the icon of peace and non-violence Shri Nelson Mandela on his 100th birth anniversary on July 18, 2018, in Gandhi Darshan. Prof. N Radhakrishnan, eminent Gandhian and former Director GSDS was the key speaker on the occasion. About 70 people took part in the programme.

Remembering Madiba as Nelson Mandela (1918-2018), Prof. Radhakrishnan said that the year 2018 marks the centenary of the birth of this messiah of peace. He said that 2018-19 provides a unique opportunity for people around the world to reflect on his life and times and promote his legacy.

Speaking about the legacy of Nelson Mandela, Prof. Radhakrishnan said that Madiba was an ardent follower of Mahatma Gandhi, but not initially. Calling him an “Exceptional peaceful revolutionary”, who was not deterred by the 25 years of life under imprisonment, Prof. Radhakrishnan said that Madiba’s life created an impact both locally and globally, for he belongs to the whole world. “We are saluting one of the most outstanding revolutionaries and patriots of the world today”.

Shri S A Jamal, Administrative Officer and Smt. Geeta Shukla, Research Officer, GSDS recollected their moments when they spent time with Nelson Mandela when he came to India and then Gandhi Smriti after his release from prison.

Sharing her sentiments, Smt. Geeta Shukla said, “Madiba first visited India in 1990 when he was released from jail after more than 25 years for leading the anti-... Read More

Tributes to Jallianwala Bagh Martyrs as Part of Centenary Celebrations

A special programme, as a tribute to mark the beginning of the centenary year of Jallianwala Bagh was organized at Gandhi Darshan on April 13, 2018. Eminent Gandhian and former Director National Gandhi Museum, Dr. Y.P. Anand was the guest speaker on the occasion. Dr. K D Prasad, Regional Director of IGNOU RC 2 also addressed the gathering.

Dr. Anand provided a historical insight into this cataclysmic event which shaped the course of India’s freedom movement. It was this barbaric chapter of our history which made Gurudev return his Knighthood as a protest against the vicious act against innocent people. Jallianwala Bagh will always remain a beacon of inspiration in our eventful freedom struggle.

Dr. Prasad of IGNOU stressed the need for the present generation to learn about the details of this momentous event and imbibe the feeling of patriotism within.

Shri Laxmi Dass, Vice-President Harijan Sevak Sangh and a Gandhian thinker, Shri Basantji former Advisor GSDS and Gandhian thinker also shared their perspectives on the occasion. Among others were present Smt. Shashwati Jhalani, former Librarian GSDS and staff members of GSDS.

100 Years of the Commemoration the First Imprisonment of M.K. Gandhi on Indian Soil

Shri Basant ji, former advisor GSDS along with Prof. Manoj from Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Vishwa Vidyalaya Wardha; Shri Kawal Singh Chauhan, Dr. Chandrasen Sharma, Shri Ashok Singh Chauhan, Shri Lokendra Kumar Sharma and Shri Viswas Gautam took part in a special programme to mark the 100 years of the commemoration of the first imprisonment of M K Gandhi on Indian soil. It was on April 10, 1919 Gandhiji was arrested at Palwal on his way to Amritsar and was taken back to Bombay where he was released on April 11, 1919.

Station Master Shri Lokendra Kumar Sharma who was present on the occasion along with other delegates offered their tributes.

Technology is Like Parasite, Threat to Humanity: Murli Manohar Joshi

“Technology has entered society like a parasite and is a threat to humanity in several ways,” said senior BJP leader Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi at the Prabhash Prasang in Gandhi Darshan on July 15, 2018. Speaking on the 81st birth anniversary celebration of late journalist Shri Prabhash Joshi, Dr. Joshi said that with advancement in technology, humans are getting trapped in computers.

“Technology has entered our lives so much that we cannot get rid of it no matter how much we try. Technology is very magical. We are going into space, finding life on other planets, progressing in medicine, artificial intelligence etc.

"Question arises that on one hand we are going towards these things but we humans are also getting closed in a computer. Technology is like the parasite," he said.

While addressing a large gathering of over 400 people that included journalists, academicians, writers, authors, poets, scholars, people from the media fraternity, Dr. Joshi’s while speaking about “Technology and Democracy” threw light on the misuse of information and companies making money out of this data.

He also referred to Aadhaar being the newest form of data collection.
"It is a world of data. A company pays billions to get data about people. In elections earlier, people used to visit households and talk. Now everything is on mobile. Experts are consulted before speaking in a particular area as they have the data of the people there.

“Aadhaar is the... Read More

Seminar on Different Social Issues Organised

The Samiti in association with Indraprastha Yogakshem Sewa Nyas, Delhi organized a six-day seminar on different social issues such as - “Untouchability, Social Harmony”, “Women Empowerment”, “Youth Volunteerism” and “Environment” in Gandhi Darshan from June 21-26, 2018. Almost 400 delegates took part in the programme.

The participants deliberated on the Gandhian concept of development of the society and highlighted the issues that Mahatma Gandhi raised and worked throughout his lifetime. They said that Gandhiji fought for the eradication of social evils and empowering the last person in the society.

Discussions on the call given by Gandhiji to the youth to serve the society by going to the villages to work for the upliftment of the poor was mooted and the youth were inspired to work voluntarily for the society.

Give Non-Violence a Chance – A Dialogue

A day-long seminar on “Give Nonviolence a Chance” was organized by Gandhi Peace Mission, Kerala in association with GSDS and Mygov.in on May 3, 2018 at Gandhi Darshan Rajghat. Many eminent Gandhians, academicians, professors, scholars and intellectuals took part in this seminar.

Director GSDS Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, in his keynote address, specified the need of this discussion. He mentioned that there is a basic difference between animals and human beings. He said that conflict is a nature of ‘jungle’. But in today’s society crime and conflict is increasing day by day among and between human beings. Perhaps it is happening because jungle or forests are decreasing every day and we are converting and developing forest land into the residence, that’s why jungle nature is emerging in human society and animals are becoming pet animals.

“Developed nations have initiated towards nonviolent conflict resolution and the change is seen when heads of two Korean nations cross the border together. The same tradition should be followed in each and every street and corner of the society so that we could move towards a nonviolent society and peaceful life”, he said.

Kumar Shekhar Chancellor of Shobhit University who also moderated the discussion, emphasized to not to make Gandhi a God. ‘Be the change you want to see in the world’ as Mahatma Gandhi had said. Nonviolence must start from us. Making strict laws is not a way to nonviolence. “Nonviolence doesn’t only... Read More

Widen Your Mind and Heart: Rajnath Singh Calls on Young People to Serve the Old

“People have to be emotionally attached to work for the elderly. They are our resources and we have to cherish and respect them, said Hon'ble Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh. Shri Rajnath Singh was speaking at the inauguration of the Cancer and Pneumonia awareness programme in Gandhi Smriti on April 25, 2018 at a joint programme organized by the Samiti in association with Healthy Aging India as part of the initiative of the Department of Geriatric Medicine AIIMS. About 500 enthusiastic elderly individuals from various old-age homes and people from remote areas of Delhi NCR took part in the programme.

Shri Rajnath Singh further said, “The ancient sages and saints have devoted their life for the service of humankind and have laid down certain principles for the society for us to follow them”, adding, “If we follow them, we will surely not deviate from the path of righteousness”.

He further encouraged the younger generation to make the life of older adults and not so privileged school students better. He said, “We have come to a stage where we need to introspect as to why we are not able to keep our parents with us and serve them”, adding, “We must remember that parents are not satisfied with any form of service to them other than which their children give them when they are old”.

He applauded the efforts of Healthy Aging India in generating the will force and expertise of the senior citizens to aide and educate the poor school going, children.... Read More

Gyanotsav 2075 delves on Contemporary Education System

A three-day educational Utsav “GYANOTSAV 2075”, was organized in Gandhi Darshan by Shiksha Sanskriti Uthan Nyas from April 6-8, 2018. The chief guest of this congregation was Shri Mohan Bhagwatji, Sarsanghchalak of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Other dignitaries such as Hon’ble Dinanath Batra, Convenor, Hon’ble Atul Kothari, Co-Convenor, “Shiksha Sanskriti Uthan Nyas”, Sh. Iswar Dayal Kansal, Coordinator Gyanotsav 2075, Sh. Arun Bhardwaj, Convenor, Bhartiye Bhasha Abhiyan, Sh. Prasarita Varma, Convenor, Orrisa & Bengal and others were present on the occasion. 60 schools and universities from 12 states of the country took part in the three-day programme.

In the first session, the heads of the respective School or University came together and took part in a thoughtful session. In this session, discussions were based on the contemporary educational practices in India along with the concern for respect to moral values, environment and character building in education was taken up.

Apart from this, an exhibition was organized which was inaugurated by the Shri Mohan Bhagwat Ji, in which educational institutions from all over the country have demonstrated innovations and innovative experiments in education.

In this session, Mr. Mahesh Sharma ji (Minister of State Independent Charge) Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation in his address said: “I have full faith that the gap between education and culture would be reduced through this event and the goal of... Read More

Sankalp Se Siddhi, Shillong, Meghalaya

  • Number of School Participation: 95
  • Number of Students participation: 30,000+
  • Number of Students Participation in competition: 9500+

Apart from Shri Ravindra Sathe and Mr. Priyank Kanoongo, Dr. H K Sharma, Director, NIT Tripura took part in the discussion.

  • Orientation workshop for School Principals at North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, Meghalaya
    • Schools were invited to participate with support of Meghalaya Commission for protection of Child Rights, State Education Department, Government of Meghalaya and North Eastern Hill University.
    • 95 participating school principals came for orientation workshop.
    • The workshop was aimed to encourage the principals to participate in the initiative, form cultural clubs in their schools and then engage students through these cultural clubs.
    • At the end of the workshop, all principals and dignitaries took a pledge towards a New India.
    • Post the workshop, each school is getting their students to take pledge & fill booklets.
    • Booklets are being submitted to State Education Department for evaluation.
    • The Competition closes on 5th August

RMP aims to encourage 5 lakh students across 5000 schools from eight states of North East to contribute towards this cause."

Sankalp Se Siddhi, Agartala, Tripura

  • Number of School Participation: 170
  • Number of Students participation: 68,000+
  • Number of Students Participation in competition: 17000+
  • Orientation workshop for School Principals at National Institute of Technology, Agartala
    • Schools were invited to participate with the support of Directorate of Secondary Education, Government of Tripura and National Institute of Technology, Agartala.
    • 170 participating school principals came for orientation workshop.
    • The workshop was aimed to encourage the principals to participate in the initiative, form cultural clubs in their schools and then engage students through these cultural clubs.

Dignitaries included Shri Ravindra Sathe, Director General RMP; Mr. Priyank Kanoongo, Member RTE & Education NCPCR; Dr. Sunita Changkakati, Chairperson, Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (ASCPCR).

Sankalp Se Siddhi, Guwahati, Assam

  • Number of School Participation: 306
  • Number of Students participation: 1,20,000+
  • Number of Students Participation in competition: 30000+
  • Orientation workshop for School Principals at Shilpgram, Guwahati, Assam.
    • Schools were invited to participate with support of Assam State Commission for protection of Child Rights & Department of Secondary education, Government of Assam
    • 306 participating school principals came for orientation workshop.
    • The workshop was aimed to encourage the principals to participate in the initiative, form cultural clubs in their schools and then engage students through these cultural clubs.

Dignitaries included Shri Ravindra Sathe, Director General RMP; Mr. Priyank Kanoongo, Member RTE & Education NCPCR; Dr. Sunita Changkakati, Chairperson, Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (ASCPCR).

Cultural Clubs in Schools Started as Part of Sankalp Se Siddhi Initiative Launched

Inspired by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi’s appeal to the nation to commit themselves to the eradication of dirt, poverty, communalism, casteism, corruption and terrorism, Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini (RMP) in collaboration with GSDS organised Sankalp Se Siddhi initiative across the North East India with an aim to encourage schools staff and their students towards this nation-building initiative.

To ensure proper participation of schools and their students, RMP brought on board the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Various state education departments and respective state SCPCR.

As part of the campaign:

  1. Schools were encouraged to form cultural clubs.
  2. Through cultural clubs, Sankalp Se Siddhi competition were organized.
  3. Students were given a competition booklet, through which they were asked to think and share how they could contribute to this mission.
  4. School students took a pledge towards New India in their school assembly.

To have a deeper connection with the schools on the initiative, orientation workshops for school principals were organized across state capitals:

  • Workshops were held across Guwahati, Agartala and Shillong.
  • 560+ principals from Secondary/Higher Secondary Government and Private schools participated, making it a huge success.
  • At the workshops, invited guests encouraged principals to wholeheartedly participate and make this... Read More
  • Two-days Training Programme of Teaching in Non-violent Communication Resolution in Teaching Practices

    Gandhi Smriti & Darshan Samiti in association with Mamta Shiksha Samiti organized a two-day seminar on ‘Nonviolent Communication and Non-Violent Conflict Resolution In Teaching Practices Seminar’ held on July 7-8, 2018 at Morar Gwalior Madhya Pradesh. This seminar carried forward the vision of Mahatma Gandhi.

    The seminar saw participation by many eminent personalities including social activist, senior lawyers and local personalities. The seminar was also attended by educationalist achievers from different sections of the society. Smt. Shanti Sharma, Secretary Mamta Shisha Samiti and Shri Umesh Chandra Gaur, Chairman CCBOS attended the programme.

    Welcoming the participants and distinguished guests, Shri Umesh Chandra Gaur, Chairman CCBOS laid stress on many issues regarding non-violent teaching. Shri Gaur also exhorted the participants to take the oath to follow the non-violent teaching for the students.

    Inaugurating the first day of the seminar Smt. Shanti Sharma spoke on the non-violent way of teaching and non-violent conflict resolution and said that these are important factors in today’s world.
    Also speaking on various education-related issues were eminent personalities like Shri Devendra Bhargava, Chairman Mamta Shiksha Samiti, Smt. Seema Bhargava (BAC) M.P. Gov., Smt. Mamta Chaturvedi, Member Vigilance and Monitoring, M.P. Gov.

    The second day of the seminar was presided over by Shri Umesh Chandra Gaur. He raised many vital issues... Read More

    Workshop on Stress Management and Inter-Personal Conflict Resolution

    An interactive workshop on “Stress Management and Inter-personal Conflict Resolution” was organized for the GSDS staff on July 30, 2018, at Gandhi Darshan. Almost 120 persons took part. The workshop was conducted by Shri Atul Priyadarshi an expert trainer from Patna.

    During the workshop, Shri Atul Priyadarshi focussed on different aspects of stress management such as ‘individual stress’, ‘emotional stress’, ‘physical stress’, ‘behavioural stress’ and how that affects the psyche of a person both at the workplace as well as at home.

    Basing his training on different concepts, he further suggested various stress management techniques such as:

    1. Prioritise Your Health
    2. Get a Good Nights Sleep
    3. Practice Deep Breathing
    4. Stay Hydrated
    5. Eat for Wellbeing
    6. Get Moving to Combat Stress
    7. Adopt a Positive Mind Set
    8. Master Your Time
    9. Don’t be a Slave to Tech
    10. Learn to Say No

    Analysing stress and the need to resolve it, Shri Priyadarshi spoke of integrity, character, ethics and values that are needed to self-motivate a person.

    The second session that was conducted by Shri Atul Priyadarshi was on managing “Interpersonal Conflict”, where through games and meditation the concept of ‘unity’ was reiterated. Concepts such as “Learn how to use parts of the conflict resolution process to recognize and prevent conflict before it escalates”; “Develop communication tools such as... Read More

    Spearheading the Peace Crusade Through Non-Violent Communication Techniques

    Peace cannot be built on the foundations of fear. On the same lines, a two-day interactive workshop on “Non-violent Communication and Conflict Resolution” was organized by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) for Delhi Home Guards on July 19-20, 2018 at Directorate General of Home Guards, Raja Garden, New Delhi.

    The workshop was conducted by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu (Programme Officer, GSDS) along with three eminent resource persons such as Shri Kumar Amitabh (senior journalist and filmmaker), Ms. Shweta Rashmi (journalist), and Ms. Anupama Jha (expert on stress management). They contributed to achieve the overarching goal of enhancement of ‘police-public partnership’ and to integrate Gandhian techniques in carrying out duties by the Homeguards. The session was attended by 300 home guards spread across Delhi.

    The programme started by outlining the aim and objectives of the orientation programme and ice-breaking exercises by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu and Ms. Kanak Kaushik. The two-day long workshop had parallel sessions in two different rooms underlying the themes of peace and non-violence.

    The themes addressed during the session included:

    • Understanding of different perspectives on ‘Peace’, ‘Nonviolence’ and ‘Conflict’;
    • Critical understanding of everyday conflicts and resolution techniques and Conflict Mapping;
    • An introduction to Non-violent Conflict Resolution approaches, Negotiation, Mediation and Non-violent Communication... Read More

    Orientation Programme on “Nonviolence Communication and Nonviolence Conflict Resolution”

    An orientation Programme on “Nonviolence Communication and Nonviolence Conflict Resolution” was organized by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti for officials of Special Unit for women and children of Delhi Police from June 19-20, 2018 in Police Training School, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi. The aim of the program was to build a framework of mediation in solving the conflicts without using coercive methods and violence and also help police officials to develop the friendly linkages with/between the citizens. About 50 Police Officers took part in the training programme.

    Along with Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu (Program Officer, GSDS) two eminent resource persons viz. Shri Kumar Amitabh (Senior Journalist and Filmmaker) and Ms. Shweta Rashmi (Journalist, Working for Women and Children) contributed to achieve the overarching goal of enhancement of Police-Public partnerships and to integrate Gandhian techniques in policing.

    The programme started by outlining the aims and objectives of the orientation programme by Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu (Program Officer, GSDS). While speaking on the benefits of the programme, he added that as police play a role of mediator to solve the conflicts between the two groups or individual, this program could help them to deal with the situation without using coercive methods and violence.

    Thus making their job easier and safer and thereby help them to develop friendly linkage with /between the citizens. He also shared experiences of similar... Read More

    Drivers need to be more sensitive towards passengers: K D Prasad

    “I congratulate the auto drivers for their successful training programme. You are indeed doing a service to the society which often the society fails to recognize”, said Dr. K D Prasad, Regional Director (RC 2) of Indira Gandhi National Open University at the certificate distribution programme for the Champaran auto drivers as part of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program of the Pradhanmantri Skill Development Mission for 9th to 15th Batch. Certificates were distributed by Dr. B Mishra, Dr. K D Prasad, Shri S A Jamal, Smt. Geeta Shukla, Shri Prasun Latant, Shri Atul Prabhakar and Shri Harpal.

    Speaking to about 100 auto drivers who had undertaken the training, Dr. Prasad stressed on the concept of “Driver Friend” and urged that drivers need to be sensitive towards passengers. Calling their service as ‘dignity of work’, he asked them to reform themselves and help build an atmosphere of trust.

    On being informed by Shri Viswash Gautam, Life Skill Trainer about the pledge taken by the auto drivers that they have resolved to give 2% rebate of actual fare to passengers who are unwell and those who are differently abled, Dr. Prasad stressed that such information must be sent to other departments such as transport, licensing, Ministry of Culture and documentation of such activities must be done on priority.

    Sharing his perspective, Shri S A Jamal hoped that the training will help them in getting loans, etc and also help in making a better future... Read More

    Orientation Programme with Sub-Registrars Give Space to Silence as it Will Lead ‘You’ Towards….YOU!

    We are running every day with utmost pace but we are still on the same page. This friction in our steps whilst in the lifelong journey embarking an entrenchment swaying conflicts.

    With the aforesaid reality checks and to reach up to the required solutions, an orientation programme on “Nonviolence Conflict Resolution and Nonviolent Communication” for Sub-Registrars (Revenue Department, Govt. of NCT of Delhi) was organized on April 28, 2018 by the Samiti at Gandhi Darshan.

    After a brief introduction of the GSDS, Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu (Program Officer, GSDS) outlined the aim and objectives of the training programme. While speaking on the benefits of the programme, he added that the program could help participants to deal with the situation without using coercive methods and violence in dealings with day to day lives.

    The First session was conducted by Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan (Director, GSDS), who began his session by sharing his experiences while working in the Revenue Department. Through the course of introspection and discussion with the participants, he cited the inevitable reasons behind the stressful life of Sub Registrars when dealing with the public (suffer from interference or overindulgence).

    While taking a reference from the life of Mahatma Gandhi, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan pointed that during his whole life, the Mahatma faced an innumerable crisis from various corners related to conflicts, disparities. But even after facing such stringent... Read More

    An Attempt to Shape Pillars of Administration with Gandhian Principles

    A two-day orientation programme for officers of Delhi Government on “Nonviolent Communication and Conflict Resolution” was organized from April 24-25, 2018, in Gandhi Darshan.

    The Programme was attended by Ms. Manisha Saxena (Secretary, Revenue Department, Govt. Of NCT of Delhi) and other distinguished District Magistrate and Sub-divisional Magistrate from Revenue Department. Whereas, the resource persons were Shri Prashant Kumar Mishra (Former Chief Secretary, UP & Former Member, UPSC), Prof T K Thomas(Academician and Ex-broadcaster), Ms. Anupama Jha (Expert on Stress management).

    Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, GSDS outlined the aim and objectives of the orientation programme. While speaking on the benefits of the programme, he added that the program could help participants to deal with the situation without using coercive methods and violence and through the process participants will be able to use tools of nonviolent communication while negotiating with the stakeholders.

    The First session was conducted by Shri Prashant Kumar Mishra on: ‘What are conflicts faced by an Administrator and the ways for their Peaceful Resolution’. He started with the discussion of the concept of Life that people understand and reached a conclusion that life is an experience between birth and death; its a way of living; It has never been a straight line as it has own Ups and Downs. He then focussed his session towards the question –What is a conflict?

    ... Read More

    Yagya Expo- 2075 Discusses Traditional Aspects of Vedic Arts and Sciences

    Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, in association with Arsa Bharati Trust, Gouras Pariwar, Telangana G.O.U. Federation (Goras Organizations United Federation, Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA) and Multiple Voluntary Institutions, have jointly organized “Y.A.G.Y.A. Expo – 2075” from July 14 – 24 July, 2018 at Gandhi Darshan.

    The main objective of the expo was to showcase the traditional aspects of applied Vedic arts & Sciences of Yog, Ayurveda, Govidya, Yagya, etc. with a prime focus on their potential applications in present day’s agriculture, Health Care, Education, Culture, Environment Protection (Reversal of Climate Change), Livelihood Generation and Community bonding, thereby achieving the global goals of sustainable development S.D.Gs – 2030 which states: (No poverty, Zero hunger, Clean Water & Sanitation, Good Health and well-being, reduced inequalities, responsible consumption and production, sustainable cities and communities, climate action, Quality education, etc.)

    The expo was inaugurated by Shri Manhar Zala (Chairman, National Safai karamchari Commission) at the I.G.N.C.A. auditorium on July 14, 2018. Shri Subhash Jindal (Patron of Bharat Sevak Samaj) presided over the inaugural session that was attended by over 60 delegates from various parts of the country.

    Other dignitaries who occupied the Dias included Dr. ISH Narang (Delhi Arya Pratinidhi Sabha), Er. Subodh Kumar (Working President of G.O.U. Federation), Umesh... Read More

    Yoga - A Way to Connect With Divinity Leading to a Path of Being in Essence

    As we all know that Yoga is more than 10,000 years old practice which sages of Ancient India gave as the heritage to the world and thus embedded seeds of balance into our existence and lifestyle. On December 11, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.

    Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti on this occasion as part of the 4th International Yoga Day organized various practical sessions of ‘Yoga’ in different places such as the “Department of Home Guards, Raja Garden, New Delhi; NOIDA Entrepreneurs Association and Jal Vayu Vihar Community Centre in NOIDA, Uttar Pradesh and in Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat.

    1. In Gandhi Darshan,

      the yoga session was jointly organised by GSDS and IGNOU Regional Centre-2. Here, about 250 people practiced yoga for an hour in the direction of resource persons namely Shri Varun Nautiyal, Shri Sagar Adhikari and Smt. Neha Chaurasiya. Also, a naturopathy session was conducted by Dr. Manju Aggarwal.

      Yoga has gone global with its origin rooted in Indian culture, Union Minister Dr. Mahesh Sharma said on the International Yoga Day in Shahid Minar in the Central part of Kolkata in the Yoga Day programme organized by Kreeda Bharati, West Bengal. The Hon'ble Minister also performed yoga on the occasion. Over 2,000 people, including children and young people, took part in over the 40-minute long yoga session.

      "Yoga has become a global practice having its roots in India... Read More

    Yoga Utsav Organised

    A “Yoga Utsav” was organized by GSDS on June 16, 2018 at JVCC Lawns, Sec-21, NOIDA, Uttar Pradesh. Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Hon’ble Minister of Culture and VC GSDS was the chief guest on the occasion. Padma Bhushan Shri Ram Vanji Sutar graced the occasion with his presence. About 100 yog sadhak and sadhika (practitioners) and 500 audiences took part in the programme.

    In his address, Dr. Mahesh Sharma emphasized the importance of yoga to lead a positive and healthy life to bring harmony and peace to the world. He also performed yoga with the participants. “Yog Patrika”, a monthly newsletter was also launched on the occasion by Dr. Mahesh Sharma.

    A large number of people from all walks of life participated in the Yog Utsav. Yoga session was conducted by Mr. Prem Kumar Bakshi along with Shri Santosh and Ms. Rashmi Jha. Yogasana competition was an attraction of the celebrations.

    Shri N S Negi, Shri P V Janardhan and Ms. Rashmi were external judges for the purpose. Cultural programmes based on Yoga were performed.

    Artists Display Their Traditional Art Form at the Lok Kala Mahotsava

    Artists from all over India took part in the festival of Akhila Bharatha Lok Kala Mohatsav at Gandhi Darshan on May 25-26, 2018 and showcased their creative talent through traditional art forms. Organised by the Karnataka Sahasa Kala Academy in association with Confederation of Community Based Organisations in India (CCBOs), the participants in Gandhi Darshan presented their folk culture and displayed the rich folk and cultural heritage of India. Almost 200 artists from Kashmir, Haryana, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Jharkhand, Goa, Chattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Manipur and other states took part in the programme. The artists have also performed at various other places during this period from May 25-31, 2018.

    Speakers at the programme in Gandhi Darshan included Shri Umesh Chand Gaur, President CCBOs; Shri Nrimal Vaid, President and Shri Hassan Raghu from the All India Folk and Tribal Art Parishath (National Council for Folk and Tribal Art) who reiterated the need to preserve the dying folk art of India that is a storehouse of information and knowledge.

    The programme was supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India under the scheme National Presence Ministry of Culture, GOI.

    Screening of Film on Non-Violent Communication

    The Samiti hosted the screening of the documentary film on “Non-Violent Communication” in Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat on May 18, 2018. The film focused on the different aspects of non-violent communications with interviews of resource persons, experts, Gandhian thinkers, working professionals, and experience sharing by home guards personnel.

    Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Shri S A Jamal, Administrative Officer, Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer, other staff and members of the Samiti took part in the discussions on the film and presented their suggestions for improvising the same in the film.

    Various suggestions were taken to be incorporated in the film. It was suggested that:

    1. A soft instrumental music Vaishnava Jana Tau could play in the background.
    2. Make a shorter version of the film for showing during the workshop with essential meaning.
    3. Increase the respondents .
    4. Make the message of the film more clear and emphatic.
    5. Incorporate the problems faced by the participants.

    Swachhata Abhiyaan Organised

    A programme on Swachhata Abhiyaan was organised on April 22, 2018 at the Central Government Employee, Multi-Storey Flats T-III Dev Nagar (Karol Bagh), New Delhi by GSDS. Around 132 parents and children were present on the occasion. The participants started the initiative by cleaning the campus area that included the Gym; L-shaped Park and volley ball ground and its surrounding area. An oath was also administered by Shri Gulshan Gupta, North East Coordinator GSDS and he shared his ideas on the importance of swachh Bharat, swachh environment and how to behave with the safai karamcharis.

    Ms. Madhimita Khan while talking to the participants on cleanliness and hygiene highlighted that parents need to train their children in basics of sanitation.

    Group song by Samriddhi Shah, Pihu Sinha, Vedanshi, Sreyansh Jha and Vaisnav Saiju was another highlight of the programme.

    Shramdaan Organised

    The Samiti as part of its swachhatta abhiyaan organized a cleanliness drive on April 12 and April 19, 2018 respectively in Gandhi Darshan. Assistant Librarian Smt. Sunita Joshi coordinated the shramdaan in coordination with the Programme Unit. Other staff of the GSDS joined in the cleanliness drive. A prayer meeting – Sarva Dharma Prarthana was also organized on the occasion.

    National Workshop on ‘Water an Element of Life’ Organised

    The Samiti in association with Jaladhikar Foundation organised a day-long national seminar on “Water is Life” in Gandhi Darshan on April 14, 2018. About 500 participants took part in the programme. Principles from the eight colleges of Delhi University took part in the programme. Swami Chidaroopanand from Chinmaya Mission graced the occasion. Dr. Mahesh Chand Sharma, former Member of Parliament Rajya Sabha, Dr. Shekhar Aggarwal, Chancellor, Shobhit University and others were the distinguished guests on the occasion. Shri Kailash Goduka Secretary, Jaladhikar Foundation.

    Among the others who took part in the programme were 30 people working on water issues; 50 office bearers from the Resident Welfare Organisation; 25 Market Association office bearers and 300 students from different institutions in Delhi.

    The following discussions were organised:

    1. Various dimensions of “Water as the integral source of life”
    2. Who owns water?
    3. The righteousness of water business
    4. Whether the shortage is of water or its management?
    5. Traditional as well as modern methods of water conservation

    Meeting to Discuss Celebration of Gandhi-150

    A senior delegation of Gandhian scholars, academicians, social workers and others took part in a discussion on programmes and actions to be undertaken for the celebrations of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on May 1, 2018 in Gandhi Darshan.

    Participating in the discussion were Shri Aditya Patnaik, Shri Basant Ji, Prof. Manoj Kumar, Dr. B Mishra, Prof. Girishwar Mishra, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Dr. T Karunakaran, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan and others.

    The delegation also took part in a meeting chaired by the Hon’ble President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind and Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on May 2, 2018 at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

    The President said that the Gandhi's birth anniversary commemoration has a worldwide meaning. "Let us elevate this to a global celebration, using platforms such as the United Nations and other multilateral organizations. The focus should not just be on events, but on tangible, actionable legacies that will make a difference to the lives of ordinary people -- wherever they may be," he said.

    Shri Narendra Modi called for the celebrations to move beyond government events and take the shape of a mass movement. He further suggested that the activities for commemorating Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary in 2019 be designed around the theme of “Karyanjali” or “Gandhi in Action”.

    Inauguration of Interpretation Centre at Rajkya Mandya Vidyalaya, Chandrahiya and Kasturba Balika Vidyalaya, Peeprakothi

    On April 16, 2018 Shri Radha Mohan Singh ji, inaugurated the Interpretation Centre at Rajkya Mandya Vidyalaya, Chandrahiya. Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan was present on the occasion. The Interpretation Centre has been developed with a vision to help the students and the local community to understand the life’s message of Mahatma Gandhi. An exhibition containing glimpses from the life and time of Mahatma Gandhi and a special panel on Gandhiji’s journey (on April 16, 1917) riding on the elephant has also been depicted in the Interpretation Centre.

    Shri Radha Mohan Singh further inaugurated the Sanitary Napkin Vending Machine and Incinerator centre at the Vidyalaya. This was also initiated by the GSDS and Sulabh Social International Organisation as part of the ‘school sanitation programme’ and keeping in view the government’s Swachh Bharat Swachh Vidyalaya Mission that encourages the construction of incinerators in schools. The keys were handed over to Shri Rameshwar Yadav, Principal of the Vidyalaya.

    Further, Shri Radha Mohan Singh ji also inaugurated the Interpretation Centre – set up by the GSDS at the Kasturba Balika Vidyalaya. Shri Pramod Kumar, Hon'ble Tourism Minister was present on the occasion. Others who were present included: Smt. Neeta Sharma, Head Mistress and Coordinator of Kasturba Balika Vidyalaya; Smt. Geeta Shukla, Shri Rajdeep Pathak, Shri Pankaj Chaubey and Shri Yatender Singh of the GSDS.

    Later, at a discussion with the officials of GSDS... Read More

    Insignia’s on Principles of Truth and Charkha the Symbol of Self Reliance Inaugurated at Charkha Park

    As the daylight began to give way to the evening sky, over 1000 people gathered at the newly named Charkha Park, to witness the inauguration of the newly installed Insignia’s developed by the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti on huge stones and the Steel Charkha by the Hon’ble Union Agriculture Minister, Shri Radha Mohan Singh. A galaxy of distinguished guests such as Shri Pramod Kumar, Bihar Tourism Minister; Smt. Anju Devi, Chief Councillor, Motihari Municipal Council; Shri Vinay Kumar Saxena, Chairman, Khadi and Village Industries Commission; Shri Babloo Gupta, Member Legislative Council; Shri Brajkishore Singh, Secretary, Gandhi Sanghralaya, Motihari; Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS, Shri Chandrabhushan Pandey, eminent Gandhian and journalist and others were present at the inaugural ceremony.

    The Insignia was designed in the Gandhi Darshan complex at Rajghat, New Delhi by the GSDS under the guidance and supervision of eminent sculptor and Director General of National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, Shri Adwaita Gadanayak and his team of artists from Orissa who had spent over a month in carving the stone pillars – first with the image of Ba and Bapu, the second with the signatures of Gandhiji in different languages; the third pillar with shlokas from the Rig Veda and the fourth pillar depicting the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) symbolising the introspection in search of truth and non-violence for attainment of strength and resilience to fight... Read More

    Bapu Dham Railway Station, Motihari

    Hon’ble Shri Radha Mohan Singh unveiled the plaques (statue) of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and his wife Kasturbai at the Bapu Dham Railway Station, Motihari on April 15, 2018. The statue of Mahatma Gandhi (in the traditional Kathiwari dress which he wore at the time of his arrival to Champaran) has been placed by the GSDS at the Railway Station. The Hon'ble minister also unveiled a dummy train (tableau) with the statute of Mahatma Gandhi depicting his arrival at the Bapu Dham Railway Station Motihari on April 10, 1917.

    Present on the occasion were: Shri Pramod Kumar, Tourism Minister, Bihar Government; Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Motihari, Shri Arun Jain, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, members of the Legislative Council, and a host of other dignitaries.

    Shri Radha Mohan Singh also inaugurated the Mahatma Gandhi Interpretation Centre at the Bapu Dham Railway Station. The Interpretation centre has been so designed that it houses the history of the Champaran Satyagraha through an exhaustive photo-text exhibition containing forty-eight panes, each panel of 10/5 size.

    Designed and developed by the GSDS – under the supervision of Smt. Geeta Shukla – and installed at the railway station, this exhibition is an eye-opener for any visitor who visits the station. Any visitor arriving, departing, or even waiting at this railway station is bound to get a glimpse of the history of 100 years, when Gandhiji had arrived in Champaran... Read More

    Interpretation Centre at Zila School, Motihari inaugurated

    Hon’ble Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Agriculture Minister inaugurated the Mahatma Gandhi Interpretation Centre at the Zila School Motihari on April 15, 2018 at a grand event that also saw participation of a large number of farmers from across the state of Bihar at the “Kisan Mela” organised from April 14-16, 2018. Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan accompanied the Hon'ble minister at the launch ceremony. Over 500 people took part in the programme.

    Present on the occasion was Shri Pramod Kumar, Hon'ble Tourism Minister Bihar Government; Shri Babloo Gupta, Member Legislative Council, Bihar Government; Shri Braj Kishore Singh, Secretary of Gandhi Sanghralaya, Motihari, Shri Chandrabhushan Pandey, eminent Gandhian and journalist, and other distinguished members.

    The occasion also saw the release of the book “Champaran Ki Dastaan” authored by Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan and Shri Pankaj Chaubey by Shri Radha Mohan Singh.

    The Interpretation Centre at Zila School contains the history of the Champaran Satyagraha with a vivid photographic exhibition about the associates of Mahatma Gandhi in Champaran in 1917 such as Babu Rajendra Prasad, Ramnavami Prasad, Rajkumar Shukla, Pir Munis, Babu Brajkishore Prasad, Acharya Kriplani, Dr. Anurag Naryan Sinha and others and the key role they played.

    About 1000 youth from the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan and from different colleges in Motihari took part in a yatra led by Shri Radha Mohan Singh... Read More

    Sanitary Napkin Production Unit Inaugurated at Kasturba Balika Vidyalaya, Peeprakothi

    On Aprill 9, 2018, Mr. Iftekhar Ahmado, District Education Officer, Motihari; Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS; Mr. Roopak Roy Choudhury, National Coordinator Sulabh School Sanitation Clubs; Mr. Shekhar Kumar Sinha, Mr. Rajkumar Sharma, DPO Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan (SSA); Headmistress of the Vidyalaya, Ms. Neeta Sharma; Smt. Sameeksha, Smt. Geeta Shukla, GSDS staff joined at a function to inaugurate the “Sanitary Napkin Production Unit” at Kasturba Balika Vidyalaya, Peeprakothi.

    The low-cost sanitary napkin production unit is also an endeavor of the Samiti in association with Sulabh International to address issues of menstrual health and hygiene. Girl students studying at the Vidyalaya will be trained in the production of the sanitary napkins.

    Smt. Geeta Shukla, Research Officer, GSDS said, “To give a boost to the crucial issue of menstrual hygiene, this programme has been launched and a production center has been established. This will also give a boost to the women in the area who could get access to low-cost sanitary napkins and will not depend on the traditional systems”.

    Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, said that the production unit will in time cater to supplying sanitary napkins to the different places where easy napkin vending machines have been set up. This will also provide the skill to the girls and make them empowered. “Life-skills based hygiene education helps children to change behavior and so reduce risks and prevent water and sanitation... Read More

    Workshop on Health and Hand Hygiene

    On April 7, 2018, at the Zila School Motihari, the Samiti took part in a workshop with teachers from different schools in the town sharing their experiences on health and hygiene. Trainers from Sulabh Sanitation Clubs led by Mr. Rupak and Ms. Samiksha; from GSDS, Dr. Manju Rani Aggarwal, Shri Rajdeep Pathak shared their thoughts about health and sanitation and its importance. Group exercises and games formed an integral part of the workshop where the staff of GSDS also actively participated.

    Dr. Manju Aggarwal while speaking on the benefits of hand washing also demonstrated the hand washing techniques. It was time and again reiterated that water should be conserved and that minimum water should be used while washing hands.

    As part of the setting up of the Sanitation Clubs, two students from six schools were chosen as ‘Student Leaders’ who were being trained to take up the awareness campaigns in other institutions in Motihari and other nearby places. These schools included: Sir Thomas Edison Public High School; Modern Public School; Kendriya Vidyalaya, Motihari; MJK (+2) Inter-College Vidyalaya; RUM School, Jakhara Colony and S J S Shantiniketan Jubilee School, Motihari.

    Teachers from MS Memorial Public School, Balganga; Sir Thomas Edison Public High School; Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Peeprakothi, and others also took part.

    Group presentations from various groups generated new ideas where participation of the management, teachers, students... Read More

    Champaran Satyagraha: 100 Years – Major Activities

    The Samiti had initiated several activities in Champaran as part of the centenary celebrations beginning with a series of programmes in April 2017 which was graced by Union Agriculture Minister Shri Radha Mohan Singh; the former vice-chairperson of GSDS and granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi, Smt. Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee, senior Gandhians, academicians, social activists and grassroots workers from April 10-18, 2017 in Motihari.

    That was the beginning of the commemoration of the centenary celebrations of the first satyagraha that Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi undertook in the historic land of Champaran in the year 1917, his first victorious non-violent campaign.

    In continuation of the commemoration celebration, the Samiti, while marking the finale of the commemorative celebrations of the Champaran Satyagraha, organized a series of programmes in Motihari, Champaran from April 5 to April 17, 2018 onwards. Motihari was the place where Mahatma Gandhi had reached on April 10, 1917.

    In view of this, Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan led the staff of GSDS in Motihari for initiation of several projects. The staff included: Smt. Geeta Shukla, Research Officer; Shri Rajdeep Pathak, Programme Executive; Shri Praveen Dutt Sharma, Editor, Publications; Shri Pankaj Chaubey, Assistant Editor, Publications; Shri Narendra Kumar, Asst Estate Manager, Shri Mahendra Singh Rawat, Shri Yatendra, Singh, Shri Rakesh Sharma, Shri Dharamraj Kumar, Shri Dharampal, Shri... Read More

    Workshop on Constructive Programme of Mahatma Gandhi

    The Samiti organized a “Workshop on Constructive Programme of Mahatma Gandhi” in association with Lupin Human Welfare and Research Foundation, at Bharatpur, Rajasthan that was attended by 145 participants from 25 villages. Experts from different areas took part in the workshop.

    Speaking to the participants at the workshop, Shri Basant ji said that the model developed by Mahatma Gandhi for the development of the village is still relevant today. “For the development of the village industries, it is very necessary to upgrade them with the latest technology, so that the village industries could be saved from degeneration”, he said.

    “The concept of Gram Swaraj as envisaged by Mahatma Gandhi must be taken forward in the same direction and the GSDS should aim to take this forward to different streams of the society”.

    Executive Director of Lupin Human Welfare and Research Foundation, Shri Sitaram Gupta said that while the 21st century has been termed as the century of unemployment, but this is not the case. He further said that Lupin Foundation has been working with the vision and principles of Mahatma Gandhi’s Gram Swaraj and have been encouraging and promoting traditional industries. The villagers are also being encouraged towards adopting cleanliness, encouraging young people for environmental conservation and other such issues”.

    Other who spoke on the occasion included District Coordinator, Rajasthan Skill Building and Employment Development... Read More

    Run for a Cause – Summer Quarter Marathon 3rd Edition 2018

    The Samiti in association with Health Fitness Trust and Run for Life organized the “3rd Edition of the Summer Quarter Marathon 2018 – Run for a Cause” on May 6, 2018 at Gandhi Darshan. Almost 500 runners took part in the quarter marathon that was organized to raise awareness on various social issues. The event was led by Dr. Sunita Godara, Asian Marathon Champion 1992 and President Health Fitness Trust along with Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS.

    In the senior category, the runners took part in the 21 km and 10 km race that was flagged off by Dr. Sunita Godara. Further, in the junior category, almost 75 runners took part in the 5 km race.
    120 children from several schools, orphanages and specially challenged children took part in the poster making competition on “Gandhiji’s Philosophy.

    Later, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan along with Dr. Sunita Godara gave away prizes from the GSDS to the participants that contained jute bag along with a book on Gandhiji’s childhood.

    BHARATPUR, RAJASTHAN

    Know Yourself – An Orientation Programme for Youth

    For Self-realization, Mahatma Gandhi once coined a path when he said: “The best way to find yourself, is to lose yourself in the service of others”. With these understandings, a three-day camp, titled “Main Ki Khoj” was organized in Gandhi Darshan Samiti in collaboration with Gandhi Peace Foundation (GPF) from May 4-6, 2018. Several Gandhian thinkers and academicians such as Shri Annamallai, Shri Ramchandra Rahi, President Gandhi Smarak Nidhia; Shri Sanjay Damyantiji, Secretary Gandhi Smarak Nidhi; Shri Kumar Prashant, Chairperson GPF, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS, Smt Geeta Shukla, Research Officer, GSDS and others took part in the programme.

    While addressing the participants, Shri Annamallai embarked on a discussion while pointing that Self has the pivotal role in the full-fledged development of the whole nation. He pointed that “If your mind is full then first empty it, then only it will be possible to enter new ideas within you and then only you will be able to think about the new ideas, the society and the country”.

    Further, Shri Ramchandra Rahi spoke on the vicious role of Market, Monarchy and Development in playing a crucial role and changing the mindsets and beliefs and actions of the people. According to Shri Rahi, “The independence movement was a sacred thread of love and trust, but after independence there came a period in which we went into hatred, violence and untouchability, leaving us caught between these two differences”. He... Read More

    Gender Training for Adolescent Girls

    The Samiti in association with the Institute of Social Studies Trust (ISST), organized a two-day training programme on “Gender Training for Adolescent Girls under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” was organized from June 27-28, 2018 in Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat. The participants included adolescent girls of age group from 14-20 years of age from slum communities and resettlement colonies of Kalyanpuri and Trilokpuri areas.

    The training programme was the part of an action based research project namely "Creating an enabling environment for realizing aspirations of adolescent girls in an urban slum". The objective of this project was to explore and understand the resources and opportunities that adolescent girls belonging to underprivileged families need to support their aspirations for life skills, education and careers. It focuses on enhancing the personal, family and community resources and capacities to support adolescent girls in meeting their aspirations. It includes free of cost support in education including Life skill training and counseling.

    During the training, girls were made aware of gender-based discriminations in the society and trained to how to deal effectively with such issues. Also, the attempt was to make girls rethink their learned practices and socialization and make responsible decisions.

    The girls were motivated to come forward together to form a better society and support each other. With the belief that such training enhances the self-... Read More

    Seminar on Gram Shilpi: Empowerment of Rural Women

    As part of the Gandhi Exchange Programme (GEP), the Samiti organized a seminar on “Gram Shilpi: Empowerment of Rural Women” in Gandhi Darshan on June 11, 2018. The objective was to give an insight to different facets of the life of Mahatma Gandhi. 30 Participants from Vijapur Taluka of Gujarat state, from the Gujarat Vidyapeeth, took part. The visit was also the part of ‘Gram Shilpi Programme’ of Gujarat University. Shri Jaydeep was the coordinator in behalf of the concerned University.

    The seminar began with the orientation given by Ms. Geeta Shukla (Research Officer, GSDS), on the background and the activities of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti. She began her session by enthralling the interest of visitors with her utmost understanding of the journey of “Mohandas to Mahatma” while keeping the context of Sarvodaya (the universal Uplift or progress of all). She expounded the way the Father of the Nation attained his wisdom and set his gospel about the truth. Ms Shukla further apprised on the stories such as how the act of Raja Harish Chandra inspired Gandhiji to walk his life through the truth, what made him to pledge for living his whole life as Vegetarian, etc.

    Ms. Smita Vats founder Director of ITIHAAS gave a consolidated understanding of life of Mahatma. She explained how the presence of two ladies namely Smt Putlibai Gandhi and Smt. Kasturba Gandhi changed and disciplined the way Gandhiji explored the way of life. Like, from his mother, he learned the... Read More

    Improving Livelihood Opportunities of Tribal Women for Economic Prosperity

    The Samiti organized a seminar on “Empowerment of Tribal Women by improved livelihood options through value-addition of Mahuwa Flower” jointly with the Hodopathy Ethno (Medicine Doctor’s Association of India, Ranchi, Jharkhand) and Torang Trust at Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat on April 27, 2018. Almost 40 participants took part in the seminar.

    The seminar was attended by Dr.Vedabhyas Kundu (Programme Officer, GSDS); Ms Geeta Shukla (Research Officer, GSDS), Dr. Vasavi Kiro (Ex-member, Jharkhand State Commission for Women), Dr. P. P.Hembrom (American Awardee, best ethnobotanists on indigenous system of medicine), Dr. Anil K. Goel (former Scientist) and the Adivasis, especially the collectors of Mahua flowers who are using Mahua for different purposes. Activists proactively working for awareness related to Mahua and even teachers from different schools of Jharkhand who are working on deepening the roots of cultural values of Mahua amongst students with the focus on teaching the student about the malpractices of Mahua took part.

    The aim of the seminar was to discuss the ongoing malpractices related to Mahua and ways to evolve understanding about the advantages of using Mahua as medicine and other products such as sweets, pickles, jelly, etc, which in turn, will empower the tribal communities.

    Smt. Geeta Shukla speaking at the inauguration of the seminar introduced GSDS to the participants. While speaking in the seminar, she said that we have been living... Read More

    Summer School on 'India of My Dreams' Organised

    Gandhi Bhawan, the University of Delhi in collaboration with the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, July 19 2018, successfully concluded the Summer School on 'India of My Dreams' – a book by M. K. Gandhi. The summer school began on July 9, 2018.

    In the inaugural session on July 9, 2018, Prof. Ramesh C. Bharadwaj, Director (Hony.), Gandhi Bhawan, University of Delhi, at the onset, delivered the welcome speech and honoured the Chief Guest, Dr. Bajrang Gupta, an eminent Gandhian thinker and Prof. H. C. Pokhriyal, Executive Director, School of Open Learning, University of Delhi who chaired the session before giving the details of the Summer School.

    Throughout the duration, resource persons from vast fields were invited to deliver lectures/ discussions/ talks in the context of ‘India of My Dreams’ – with selected topics such as:

    1. Economic Thoughts, Education and Culture,
    2. Swadeshi, Gramswaraj, Women
    3. Regeneration Youth & Society,
    4. Nationalism and Socialism,
    5. Swachagraha and Social Justice.

    Among others, Dr. Atul Kothari, Educationist; Dr. Pramod Kumar, Journalist; Dr. Ashwini Mahajan, Shri Ram Chandra Rahi, President, Gandhi Smarak Nidhi, Rajghat, New Delhi; Dr. Mohan Chand, Journalist; Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder, Sulabh International Social Service Organisation; Shri Kumar Prashant, President, Gandhi Peace Foundation, New Delhi; Dr. Ravinder Agarwal, Journalist and Dr. Pawan Sinha, Moti... Read More

    Dhanak Rang Tarang Summer Workshop Enhances Children’s Creativity

    Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) and Jamghat (a group of street Children) jointly organized a Dhanak Rang Tarang Summer Workshop for street children was organized from June 11-30, 2018 in Gandhi Darshan. 21 street children from different areas of the capital city participated in the Workshop. Ms. Neha Garg, Ms. Himanshi, Ms. Sunita Bhatt, Ms. Shipra Rai and Mr. Anita Mahato were the facilitators.

    The aim of the workshop was to develop values of democracy, peace, compassion, non-violence, Inclusive development, team building and nature education amongst participants.

    The workshop included group activities such as ice breaking sessions to grab each child's attention and to encounter children’s hidden talent ; using a prop to hone Imaginative skills; played games as to connect them with real-life problems and persuaded to give the suggestions; tasks to channelize their anger in a positive direction without destruction or harm to others.

    Discussions on Gandhian Values such as Truth, Violence, Ahimsa, Cooperation, Unity and Self Rule linking took place during the workshop. Further, nature walk around the nearby areas was organized and their learners were asked to observe and identify the different artifacts displayed and by using their senses (touch, sight, hearing) they were asked to analyze the elements of nature.

    Further, the participants visited Gandhi Samadhi Rajghat, Gandhi Darshan museum and Gandhi Smriti, to familiarize children... Read More

    Understanding Gandhi Through the Eyes of Children – An Interactive Session with ITIHAAS

    The interactive session with students from ITIHAAS (Indian Traditions Heritage Society) who are on a summer project to understand the life's message and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi by visiting various Gandhian Institutions and writing their reports based on the information they receive, took place in Gandhi Darshan on May 23, 2018.

    Led by Smita Vats, Founder Director of Itihaas, the students shared their experiences of taking part in the internship programme at National Gandhi Museum. They felt that their visit to Gandhi Darshan museums has enriched their understanding of the journey of Mohandas to Mahatma. They felt elated.

    Speaking to them from GSDS was Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan who spoke of many qualities of Gandhiji. Sharing personal anecdotes from his life that evolved him into seeking for truth through the means of service to mankind he asked the students to imbibe honesty and courage in their life.

    Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan also led the students into a game of “Knowing Yourself” developed by H.H. the Dalai Lama which the students enjoyed thoroughly.

    Shri Rajdeep Pathak, Programme Executive, GSDS while sharing information about the activities of the Samiti, asked the students to also visit Gandhi Smriti. He further asked if the children could establish Moniya clubs in schools that could become a hub of student-led creative activities. He further advised the students to develop in them the concept of giving back something to the society... Read More

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