Last week I posted my entry in the ‘Meaning of Independence’ contest called for by TERI. My entry was awarded 1st prize. Above all, it is more a matter of pride as the winning entry was personally handpicked by none other than Dr. R.K Pachauri, Director General of TERI.& the Chairman of the ‘Nobel winning’ IPCC. However, I register a note of regret for I had not turned up for receiving the prize. It is a loss. A loss I will be recalling for many years to come.
I was congratulated by many a friends. I also have mailed the piece for them. For others, it is once again given under in the format which I sent for the contest.
"What does being part of a sovereign democratic nation (whose independence and current form have come at a price) mean to you? What can you do to further the values associated with independence that we celebrate on this day?"
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1. I feel great being a part of this sovereign democratic nation as the colours of India we see today are made with our own wisdom and labour. BUT………I recall my journey from Jamshedpur to Kharagpur. I saw a herd of my countrymen, lean and dark, scarcely clothed, board the train with loads of fire woods over their heads. The dead wood they collect from the jungles would be exchanged for a few rupees to buy two meals for the family. I weep inside, whenever I recollect what I saw then, for I could do little for these brethren of mine. Today’s Statesman reports that 77% of Indians live BPL. I urge our enlightened youth to be the ‘Adhar’ to lighten these ‘billion lives’ and be partners in filling their bellies and minds.
2. Given a chance, I’ll be back to village, plant trees, conserve water and contribute greening the environment. Here in Delhi, I pledge using less water and electricity and will say NO to plastic so that my grand children can enjoy the freedom and independence, my father fought and won, in its fullness.
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M.M. Mathew
LIC
Extn: 2751
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