The Padayatra advocating the motto of Dushkaal Hatawu : Manoos Jagawu
(Eradicate drought : Save Humanity) aimed to link urban civil society with the rural
areas. It has succeeded to a certain extent as seen by the large number of
urban folk, one all the way from the USA, who have joined in. Urban areas have
their own set of issues, their own ‘drought’ and even those need to be
addressed. This is as important as the drought in rural areas.
As the Padayatra enters its 26th
day, the nation prepares to celebrate the 56th anniversary of its
republic. This is a quintessential citizens festival. On this occasion, the
Dushkaal Hatawu : Manoos Jagawu forum wishes to exhort its urban members and
friends to celebrate the Republic Day a bit differently this year. Let us not
rush away on vacation leaving behind school children and teachers to trudge
resignedly for the compulsory flag hoisting. Let us participate in the
celebration of democracy. We have a suggestion. On this day let us seek
a dialogue with the country’s first citizen : the honorable President of India,
Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam. He is a scientist and President of the people. We are
sure that he will welcome a dialogue with the citizens. The modalities are
rather simple. Let us all go to the nearest public venue where the national
flag will be hoisted. Let us ensure that we travel to this venue by public
transport, or walking or cycling. This will enable us to show solidarity with
the Padayatris who have covered 450 kms on foot. Let us make a formal
submission to the honorable President, a submission that outlines the issues
that affect us deeply. They could be related to pollution, corruption,
education….just about anything. Let us not protest. Let us not carry any
banners. On this day at least the tricolor should reign supreme. Let us state
our concern. Our submission, could be a simple letter, can be handed over to
the top most government officer in our area… We can ask for a formal
acknowledgement of receipt… Let us state in the letters that these issues
concern us and we want to participate in the process by which they can be
alleviated. Let us take the first step. Let us show that we care.
The Padayatra will be taking a well deserved day of rest tomorrow. The
Padayatris and the members of the drought forum will use the opportunity to
reflect on the progress made so far and the plans for the coming month(s). This
reflection and planning meet has been happening on the 26th of every
month since May 2005. The MAHARASHTRA VIKAS NIDHI (MAHARASHTRA DEVELOPMENT
FUND) awaits contributions from all of you… Watch this space for further
updates. Do also watch the blog at www.greenearthconsulting.org/padayatraprogress.htm.
grnearth@vsnl.com, 020-25466103, 09422521703
Dushkaal Hatawu : Manoos Jagawu
(Eradicate Drought : Save Humanity)
January 25, 2006