Sulabh India English - May 2015

ISSN: 2230–7567

R.N.I. Regn. No. 49322/89

ISSN: 2230–7567

Glimpses from the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the works of Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh Dinkar

may 2015, ` 20/-

The Prime Minister lighting the lamp at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the works of Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, Mr. Prasoon Joshi, Dr. C.P. Thakur, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak and Mr. Sharada Prasad Saidpuri standing with him.

International

Labour Day International Labour Day also known as International Workers Day is a celebration of the labourers and the working classes initiated by the International Labour Movement, every year on May 1.

The concept of this day began in 1886 in Chicago, U.S. Several people were killed and injured during a general strike on the eight-hour work day.

In India, the first Labour Day or May Day was celebrated in 1923 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to workers and labourers.

Buddha Jayanti May 4

Drop by drop is water pot filled, Likewise, the wise man, gathering it little by little, fills himself with good.

-Buddha

If the Whole world were put into one scale and my mother in the other, the whole world would kick the beam.

No gift to your mother can ever equal her gift to you-life.

HAPPY

Mother's Day M ay, 10

May, 2015

Volume: 27 Issue 5

Editor-in-Chief

Bindeshwar Pathak Managing Editor

Kumar Dilip Editor

S.P.N. Sinha Joint Editor

Janak Singh Editorial Advisory Board S.P. Singh Sidheshwar Dhari Sinha Arjun Prasad Singh R.S. Srivastava Ashok Kumar Jyoti C.P. Nambiar Pramod Makkad

Cover story

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Art Director Debabrata Chatterjee Design & Layout Anil Khanna Shashi Dhar Printed & Published by Ram Chandra Jha On behalf of Sulabh International Social Service Organisation Published at RZ-83, Mahavir Enclave Palam-Dabri Road, New Delhi-110045 Ph. : +91-11-25031518, 25031519 Fax: +91-11-25034014 Email : info@sulabhinternational.org contact@sulabhinternational.org sulabhinfo@gmail.com sulabhindiainfo@gmail.com Website : www.sulabhinternational.org www.sulabhtoiletmuseum.org Printed at Xtreme Office Aids (Pvt.) Ltd. WZ-219A, Street No. 7, Lajwanti Garden, New Delhi-110 046 Phone : +91-11-28523637 Editor's Name : S.P.N. Sinha Entire contents (C) Sulabh International Social Service Organisation. All rights reserved.

Reproduction or translation in any language in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Requests for permission should be sent to Editor, Sulabh India. Opinions expressed in the contents are the contributors’ and not necessarily endorsed by the publisher who assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited material, nor is he responsible for material lost or damaged in transit. All enquiries/correspondence regarding editorial, advertisement, subscription or circulation should be addressed to the Editor, Sulabh India, and sent on the address given here in above.

R.N.I. Regn. No. 49322/89 ISSN: 2230–7567

From the Editor's Desk 04 Rise above Caste Barrier COVER STORY 05 Dinkar-The Voice of the Nation, says the Prime Minister 08 Speech of Hon’ble Shri Narendra Modi at Vigyan Bhawan...

10 Annihilation of Caste 12 Social Development is must for Economic Growth...

Focus 16 Global Summit on CSR Let us unite and grow together, say industry leaders 18 The only way to grow is to grow together 19 Miracle on Wheels Differently abled are fully able...

27 Abolishing scavenging still an Unfinished agenda 28 Pure Ganga Drinking Water for Varanasi 32 Sulabh’s Helping Hand to the Storm Affected clean india mission 22 Clean Schools Campaign Sulabh – SBI Venture 25 The Sulabh Gift for the Carpet City 26 No Wedding Gift, only A Toilet, please

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

lecture 23 Education alone will Empower Women... book release 29 New magazine renews battle for truth 30 Women remain weak and disempowered still... health 33 Home Remedies That Seldom Fail Science 34 Imitating the Sun 34 The Miracle of Modular Engineering Story 35 The Queen of Spades From the press 41 The Tribune 41 The Hindu 42 The Times of India Distinguished Visitors 43 Distinguished Visitors Sulabh News from States 46 Chhatisgarh 46 Jammu & Kashmir 48 Madhya Pradesh 49 Rajasthan 50 Uttar Pradesh 3

From the Editor'S Desk

Rise above

Caste Barrier

Ramdhari Singh Dinkar

“Those whose only wealth is hypocrisy keep shouting, caste-caste What do I know about caste? My caste is my hardworking hands”. n his poem Rashmirathi, through the character of Karna the National Poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar makes a hard hit on the caste system. Dinkar was dead against discrimination whose main cause was casteism. He speaks for eliminating the social scenario which emerged due to caste and untouchability.

This is a fact that caste and untouchability are slowly diminishing but it is also true that they still hold some space in our mind. And when and how they will prop up you never know. In this context the poems of Dinkar are still relevant. Caste and religion have worked to create barriers in society. Not only in India but also in the Middle East, Europe and USA the struggle which takes place occasionally among people is in the name of caste, religion and communalism. Dinkar was in favour of the Indian i.e. Bharatiyata. In his poems the Indian spirit is very clearly and prominently visible.

‘Himalaya’ the famous poem of Dinkar is the best example of the Indian ethos of his mind.

His works reflect the Indian nation in its totality, breaking barriers and deep-rooted discriminatory attitude is the dominant theme in his poetry for which Dinkar was best known and popular.

When India was a colony, freedom of the country was then the top priority. Still Dinkar was very clear that without changing conservative outlook of society as evident, for example in casteism true freedom could not be achieved. One more dominating quality of Dinkar was that he was never pessimistic in outlook. He always could connect the present with the past and the future.

In a function to mark the golden jubilee celebration of Dinkar’s great works titled ‘Sanskriti ke Chaar Adhyaaya’ and ‘Parashuram

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ki Parteeksha’ in Vigyan Bhawan at New Delhi on May 22, Hon’ble Mr. Narendra Modi while highlighting the personality and the work of Dinkar said, the differences due to caste are still prevalent in our society. The only way which can reform things in Bihar specially is that people work on the basis of merit and not one’s caste, Mr. Modi said. Affairs can’t be managed in a State with the help of a caste or two, all have to work together for it. If we do not rise above casteism, public life will be ruined, he said.

The function was graced by the presence of Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder, Sulabh Sanitation and Social Reform Movement, Dr. C.P. Thakur, M.P. and a renowned physician, Mr. Prasoon Joshi, esteemed director, musician and producer of films, reputed litterateurs Mrs. Usha Kiran Khan and Mr. Sharada Prasad Saidpuri on the dais. Dr. Pathak has been working incessantly for elimination of casteism and untouchability following the Gandhian path of persuasion and non-violence, which has been the mission of our honorable Prime Minister. The former scavenger ladies of Alwar and Tonk in Rajasthan who have been liberated and rehabilitated by Sulabh were also present in the hall. Recently celebrating the birth anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar at Constitution Club in New Delhi, Sulabh declared the end of untouchability and vowed to accept Indian as the only caste. Home Minister of India, Hon’ble Mr. Raj Nath Singh was the distinguished guest on the occasion. Dinkar’s lines quoted below reflect his conviction on the issue.

“He is a real scholar who does not believe in the difference between the high and the low. He is a respectable creature who has compassion and virtuousness”.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

COVER STORY

Dinkar-The Voice

of the Nation, says the Prime Minister Sulabh Reporter

oknayak Jayaprakash Narain and the great poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, both from the State of Bihar, would never let society sit silent. If and when it kept mum they would lose their own silence, for they believed in an awakened social awareness and conscience. When Jayaprakashji mobilized the nation against corruption, there was considerable age gap between the great leader and the youth who were enormously activated at his call. What worked as a bonding bridge between the ripe wisdom of Jayaprakash and the energy of the youth was the poetry

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of Ramdhari Singh Dinkar”, said the Prime Minister, Hon’ble Mr. Narendra Modi at a function held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, on May 22 to celebrate the golden jubilee of the two great works of the National Poet Dinkar, ‘Sanskriti ke Chaar Adhyaaya’ and ‘Parashuram ki Prateeksha’.

The Hon’ble Prime Minister said, that he was fortunate to be a part of the festival today celebrating Shabda-Brahma. The potential of the Word has been equated with God in India.

Fifty years’ age of a work of literature is not a matter of celebration in itself, it is significant

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Hon’ble Prime Minister being felicitated by Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak with a bouquet

COVER STORY

Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi and Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak at the function

Hon’ble Prime Minister speaking at the function

the Prime Minister said, because it has kept us alive even after such a long period, has inspired and provided us with the right perspective to visualise the changed times.

Mr. Modi equated litterateurs with sages, as we read about them in Vedas and Upanishads, they are the visionaries who know the society, measure its values and show us the correct path, he added.

The Prime Minister described works of literature as concerning and touching the youth, the elders, the males, the females, some part of the globe or some occurrence in it.

They move not only the reader but generations, the present ones as well as the coming ones.

Dinkarji is one such litterateur, Mr. Modi added.

The Prime Minister specially mentioned ‘Parashuram ki Prateeksha’, in which Dinkarji has portrayed the culture of India, it contains in itself the history, the culture, the huge dimensions of our country, we can understand our culture to the extent we understand the words of Dinkarji, Mr. Modi added.

The Prime Minister urged all to strive to take Bihar forward, until and unless the eastern parts of India advance ahead, the nation can’t progress, wealth and the goddess of Luxmi may bestow their favour upon the western 6

states, but they must link up with Saraswati, the goddess of learning, as well as with the east, he said.

Earlier, the celebratory function started with felicitation of the Prime Minister with a bouquet by Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder, Sulabh Sanitation and Social Reform Movement followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Hon’ble Mr. Narendra Modi, Mr. Prasoon Joshi, the eminent poet, lyricist and film producer, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, the distinguished litterateurs Mrs. Usha Kiran Khan and Mr. Sharada Prasad Saidpuri, and garlanding of the portrait of Ramdhari

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Singh Dinkar. Welcoming the august guests, Dr. C.P. Thakur, M.P. and chairman of the organizing committee, said the presence of the Hon’ble Prime Minister on this occasion was a matter of great honour for the Hindi world.

Rashtrakavi Dinkar possessed a historical perspective which is apparent in his prose and poetry. Dinkarji is one name that deserves to be honoured posthumously with Bharat Ratna award, as his writings have glorified the traditions and achievements of our great nation. The golden jubilee will be celebrated in other towns of the country as well, Dr. Thakur added.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Prasoon Joshi said the creative writings of Dinkarji must reach out to the people all over the country

Hon’ble Prime Minister patting Ms. Siddhi, granddaughter of Mr. Sharada Prasad Saidpuri Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Mrs. Amola Pathak and daughter Mrs. Madhubala Sharma with Mr. Prasoon Joshi

Mrs. Usha Kiran Khan speaking at the function

for their real appreciation. Mr. Joshi said he would welcome all nuances and expressions related to change. The inclusion of the phrase ‘SMS’ into Hindi language would be a happy incidence but it ought not to be a replacement of the word, message. He said, one should not adopt a different culture in place of one’s own traditions. A country must try to retain the fragrance of its soil. This is all pervasive in the creative writings of Dinkarji.

Mr. Joshi said that after going through ‘Sanskriti ke Chaar Adhyaya’ he was convinced that civilizations have been destroyed and history, in many cases, has been proved to be wrong and misleading, but not culture, which survives and lives on, without annihilation.

“What exists in your subconscious is never wrong. Culture lives in your subconscious, visible, on occasions, in our manners and

behaviour”, he added. Mr. Joshi recited several poems of Dinkar along with his own lyric, ^ckcqy esjh bruh

vjt lqu fytks*-

The family members of the poet were felicitated on the dais and honoured by the Hon’ble Prime Minister. They included his son Mr. Kedarnath Singh, daughter Ms. Vibha Sharma, daughter-in-law Mrs. Kalpana Singh, Mrs. Hemant Devi and grandson Mr. Arvind Singh. Mr. Arvind Singh presented two copies of Dinkar Rachnavali to the Prime Minister.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

Mr. Prasoon Joshi speaking at the function

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COVER STORY

Speech of Hon’ble Shri Narendra Modi at Vigyan Bhawan on May 22, 2015

Dr. C.P. Thakurji, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathakji, Smt. Usha Kiran Khanji, Shri Sharada Prasad Saidpuriji, young litterateurs, Shri Prasoon Joshi, Hon’ble members of family of Dinkarji, brothers and sisters who love literature!

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May 2015 SULABH INDIA

“I am fortunate to be a part of the festival today celebrating Shabda-Brahma. We regard the word (Shabda) as Brahma. The potential of the word has been equated with God. Fifty years’ age of a work of literature is not a matter of celebration in itself; it is significant because it has kept us alive even after such a long period and has inspired and provided us with the right perspective to visualise the changed times.

“Litterateurs are known as such since they create literature. They, as a matter of fact, have lives like those of sages, as we read about them in Vedas and Upanishads; they are the visionaries who know the society, measure its values and show us the correct path.

“The literature of Dinkarji springs out of our fields and farms, our villages, and our poor brethren. Many works of literature concern and touch the youth, the elders, the males, the females, some part of the globe or some occurrence in it. Very few of them move all right from the young to the old, through the past, the present and the future. They move not only the reader but generations, the present ones as well as the coming ones.

Dinkarji is one such litterateur.

“I am a devotee of Saraswati. I am well aware of the power of words, they change lives. The words of Dinkarji need to be carried over to the new generations; there are several poets and lovers of literature who remember and recite what Dinkarji has written, like so many of us reciting Ramayan, Mahabharat and Upanishads. They enjoy it.

The words of Dinkarji will keep on inspiring people.

“As in his ‘Parashuram ki Prateeksha’, Dinkar ji has portrayed the culture of India; it contains in itself the history, the culture, the huge dimensions of our country; we can understand our culture to the extent we understand the words of Dinkarji.

“Loknayak Jayaprakash Narain and the great poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, both from the State of Bihar, would never let society sit silent. If and when it kept mum they would lose their own silence, for they believed in an awakened social awareness and conscience.

When Jayaprakashji mobilized the nation against corruption, there was considerable

Dinkarji was then a Member of the Rajya Sabha. He wrote back to the person who wanted his favour on account of his caste. In his letter in March 1961 Dinkarji requested the person approaching him to ignore casteism and respect merit. age gap between the great leader and the youth who were enormously activated at his call.

What worked as a bonding bridge between the ripe wisdom of Jayaprakash and the energy of the youth was the poetry of Ramdhari Singh Dinkar.

“There are many undesirable things in our society. A person once tried to approach Dinkarji by dint of his caste. It often happens with many of us. People do yield to such pressures, at times. Dinkarji was then a Member of the Rajya Sabha. He wrote back to the person who wanted his favour on account of his caste. In his letter in March 1961 Dinkarji requested the person approaching him to ignore casteism and respect merit. Life, be it public or private, runs on merit and support of all, not by a caste or two. These words of Dinkarji are not typical of a politician or litterateur; they are the words of a sage who is aware of the truth of the present, the past and the future.

“We have to strive to take Bihar forward.

Until and unless the eastern parts of India advance ahead, the nation can’t progress; wealth and the goddess of Lakshmi may bestow their favour upon the western states, but they must link up with Saraswati, the goddess of learning, as well as with the east.

India will move forward with Bihar, Bengal, Assam, the North-East, and the eastern U.P. coming ahead with the rest of the country.

“Dinkarji dreamt of Bihar advancing forward on its own, not by dint of borrowed glory. It has its own prowess, its own glory. We are committed to fulfill the dreams of Bihar.

The works of Dinkarji inspire us to act, not merely to be read. Let us commit ourselves to act as inspired by his writings; let us move forward with his blessings to fulfill the dreams of Bihar.”

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COVER STORY

Annihilation of

Caste

S. P. Singh

Unlike the United States which was born only 229 years ago, India existed since the beginning of time, protected by two oceans and the mighty Himalayas. This continent-size country grew to become a huge congregation of people of different races, colours, languages and faiths and they melted together to constitute a huge multi-racial, multi-colour and multi-religious country. Thus, the villages became the building blocks of an independent republic, where all its needs were met internally. It had its own carpenter, barber, teacher (Brahmin) protector (Thakur) and service staff. ll conquerors of the world were limited to cities for promoting their cultural, religious and social practices.

And India’s syncretic culture was preserved in villages and frozen into a caste system which has divided the entire society.

Hence, the need of the hour is to abolish castes for the sake of our national unity. This is exactly what Prime Minister Narendra Modi also talked about at the mega conference held in New Delhi.

The Prime Minister did not say a word so many times when he warned the people that they ought not to get trapped in the evil of casteism.

Mr. Modi said it at the function of May 22 at Vigyan Bhawan organised to perpetuate the memory of eminent Hindi poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar and his inspiring poetic compositions.

He said the poet wrote and sang his message that resounded through the country and it is much more relevant today than before. Casteism today is so deep-rooted in our social and political life that it has posed a big threat to the country undermining our civilization built through centuries. After the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, Europe was divided on uniformity principles but

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it fought more wars than other countries of the world.

True, diversity has been there in all societies and they have learned to live together because they were same in colour, competence and income. But in India, caste seems to be becoming a measure of all things—temporal and divine.

This is an existential threat which the Prime Minister warned against at the august gathering.

It may be worthwhile to recall how the society had been divided on caste basis. No wonder only one caste, not the entire nation, fought wars since the Kalinga in Ashoka’s time.

And we lost all of them till the 1971 Bangladesh war. Even the 1857 independence struggle was not against British but two Indian divisions were made to fight for and against British. Hence, we lost it. It was again because of caste.

Caste Definition

As the time passed, the caste system was defined differently by people for different purposes.

Now caste has constitutional status. No wonder poverty in India is caste-based and structural.

For instance, a man is born rich or poor. A

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

manual scavenger will remain poor and illiterate always, but not the high castes. There are 2,800 castes and sub-castes in the country and they are further subdivided to get certain benefits.

The word ‘caste’ is derived from the Spanish word ‘casto’ meaning ‘breed’ or ‘lineage’. The term also stands for ‘race’ or ‘kind’. Caste in Sanskrit stands for ‘Varna’ which means ‘colour’.

Though the caste system classification seems to be based on colour as per the etymology but it wasn’t so in reality. It is estimated that there are more than 2,800 castes and sub-castes, each having its respective characteristics. The caste system existed and still exists in various religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, Christianity etc. A caste system is a social structure which ranks people into various groups based on heredity. In India caste system is known as “Varna Vyavastha.” It is a rigid system which arranges persons into classes or social strata.

The caste system exists in many countries of the world though it may not be very rigid.

But, before we understand the caste system, we must know that caste is a social status conferred by a system in a society based on one’s position which could be high or low depending upon the importance attached to that position by birth and not competence or skill. Discrimination existed in all societies in one way or other.

Spain discriminated against Catholics and made them leave the country. The Spanish people also created a body called the Inquisition to persecute those who were not liked by them.

So, many people were persecuted for being Jews. If someone was thought to be a witch, she or he was also persecuted; homosexuals were persecuted or killed. Even Galileo was summoned before Inquisition.

In South Africa, Australia and the United States, the black and indigenous populations faced heavy persecution. The Jim Crow laws in the United States, intentionally imitated by South Africa and Australia, persecuted Blacks.

Segregation was prevalent in all these three countries. Blacks were illegally prevented from voting. Violence against Blacks was common in the United States, where the native American population faced gross discrimination. Their families were forced to go to schools that would eradicate their culture. They were forced to abandon their original ways of life and live on reservations or as slaves. It took a civil war to end slavery in the U.S. and Lincoln died for

it. After the war, US Congress passed three amendments and made African- Americans U.S. citizens with rights to vote.

African- Americans are no longer slaves in the United States today after the amendments.

But their lives were still controlled by the powerful Whites. Black people do the hardest work on farms and factories for the lowest pay. Many US federal states passed laws preventing Black people from using the same facilities enjoyed by the Whites, such as schools, restaurants parks and public bathrooms. People were separated like this because of their race, colour, sex, religion etc. It was called segregation.

We know the history of the Indian caste system but it is incomplete and is changing. Now the question is how to eradicate it. The Prime Minister gave a call to change the caste structure in India where it is still practised in the worst form. He also gave a call to abolish casteism today itself because tomorrow may be too late.

His call was received with thunderous applause.

It is strange that most of us know that the caste system that we practise is bad, sinful and immoral, but still we do it.

Too close to Toilet; Too far from God!!

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

Manual scavengers have no caste, yet they are most deprived and wronged

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COVER STORY

Social Development

is must for Economic Growth CSR is Gandhian Philosophy Dr. Lalit Kumar

key areas of development which he felt were critical to the progress of the nation. Some of the areas that needed immediate attention were sanitation, safety and security of women, ensuring protection and survival of the girl child, connecting the poorest citizens of the country with the facility of bank accounts, grooming skilful youth, digital connectivity in remote villages and so on.

Knowledge Platform

Hon’ble President, Mr. Pranab Mukherjee addressing the Summit

he National Summit on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and National Agenda, held on April 29, 2015 in New Delhi reconfirmed determination to work together and promote social growth agenda like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Clean Ganga Mission. Hon’ble President Mr. Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the Summit, attended by eminent businessmen, social activists, political leaders and economists.

The Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 provides an opportunity to the companies to mobilize resources and participate in social development goals and nation building.

Companies are being encouraged to participate in projects, such as the Swachh Bharat Mission, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, National Mission for Clean Ganga and many more. Hon’ble Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech had spoken of the

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The summit which was organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) decided to create a knowledge platform at the national level by bringing together policy makers, corporate representatives, civil society, academic and development agencies and media to discuss the opportunities and promote development programmes and the CSR mandate in the Companies Act, 2013. It was also decided to share good practices around CSR policy development and stakeholder engagement, showcase innovative CSR practices, and bring out a shared vision of national development priorities and the role of industry therein to make India a strong nation.

The Hon’ble President in his address said the concept of CSR is not new to India.

Mahatma Gandhi had evolved the socioeconomic philosophy of trusteeship which provided a means for wealthy people to be trustees to look after the welfare of the common man. CSR gradually evolved into the corporate framework.

The Hon’ble President said:

“It is my privilege to join you for the inaugural session of this National Summit on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). At

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first, let me congratulate the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for organizing this annual conclave aimed at creating a strong, sustainable CSR movement in the country. I also compliment the National Foundation for Corporate Governance, with whom the CII has partnered for this 2015 edition of the summit. The government has over the last few months articulated the key national priorities and programmes. It is, therefore, apt that this summit has been convened at this time on the theme ‘Partnering the National Agenda’.

“I find many distinguished industry captains participating in this important event.

You are leaders with sharp business acumen, valued experience and wide expertise. You are entrusted with the responsibility to manage the development of your business into models of excellence. Remember that this calls for not only sound application of management principles, but also better appreciation of the socio-economic reality in which your companies operate. You have a bigger purpose than to merely earn profits. Just as you add value to your shareholders’ wealth, it is equally important to add value to the society at large.

You, as conscientious industry heads, would do well to build this emerging gospel of doing business into your corporate blueprint”.

Socio-economic Development

The Hon’ble President said, the Indian industry has displayed a keen interest in contributing to the betterment of the society.

Shouldering the task of socio-economic development is increasingly considered a shared responsibility of the government and the industry. This CSR consciousness has received a renewed impetus through a legal framework in the Companies Act, 2013. Section 135 of the Act prescribes every company eligible in terms of net worth, turnover or net profit to constitute a committee of the Board to formulate a policy for undertaking specified CSR activities. The Act also provides such companies to spend in a financial year at least two percent of the average net profits made by it during the three immediately preceding financial years.

“This legislation could help unlock a substantial amount – estimated to be in the range of Rs. 8,000 to 20,000 crore – for social sector engagement of Indian companies.

This CSR consciousness has received a renewed impetus through a legal framework in the Companies Act, 2013. Section 135 of the Act prescribes every company eligible in terms of net worth, turnover or net profit to constitute a committee of the Board to formulate a policy for undertaking specified CSR activities.

A structured development strategy is now required to ensure that these funds are efficiently deployed in areas most beneficial to society. In a country as vast as India, scalability is critical to the success of programmes.

Leading industry associations like the CII must encourage pooling of funds by companies to create large high impact programmes. In this context, the Foundation set up by the CII to reinforce the CSR initiatives of various businesses is commendable.

“Inclusive growth is an avowed objective of our public policy. It calls for intensive collaborative efforts of the government and the corporate sector to provide the basics for improving the quality of life in our rural and urban areas. The corporate sector must provide renewed impetus to CSR initiatives towards cleanliness, health and education. The Government has launched several important schemes in this direction. To mention a few, the Swachh Bharat Mission aims at a Clean India by October 2, 2019 to coincide with the 150thBirth Anniversary of Gandhiji; Saansad

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COVER STORY

CII through its member-companies has committed to build about 10,000 toilets in schools Adarsh Gram Yojana envisages the integrated development of selected villages. The corporate sector can work at various models to develop a synergetic relationship in the implementation of these schemes.

Toilets in Schools

Mr. Ram Sewak Sharma

Mr. Lov Verma

Mr. Sunil Arora

“In the sphere of health and education, many companies have established reputed institutions. The private sector can extend the good work to rural areas by meeting the infrastructure requirements in government schools. Companies can adopt specific blocks or districts for such intervention. This can be synergized with efforts to tackle malaises like malnutrition and other health-related issues.

It is heartening to note that CII through its member-companies has committed to build about 10,000 toilets in schools. This effort will not only help develop quality culture but also bring children, especially the girl child, to schools.

“Given the diversity and level of development in different parts of our country, CSR cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach.

While developing programmes, industry leaders and CSR experts must look at issues that are relevant to different regions. At the same time, they must ensure that companies look across India and not concentrate on a few pockets. The industry must work closely with non-governmental organizations.

They have the pulse of development needs at the grassroots and can provide last mile connectivity in the delivery of programmes.

“The corporate sector must also build a dedicated cadre of volunteers, who can bring individual energy and creativity for transformational change. The programme of the CII was started with a vision to see India emerge as a world leader through economic strength, technological vitality and moral leadership by 2022. It is a platform to bring together young entrepreneurs who want to make a difference to the country. CSR must become a critical component of this initiative.

“Disseminating information about the work done by companies is necessary to create 14

a positive sentiment about CSR. Equally important is to sustain the work that a company has initiated in this area. I am told that the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs, Bombay Stock Exchange and the CII have joined hands to develop the world's first CSR exchange. It will help the corporate sector to become socially responsible, connect with implementing partners, and comply with the new CSR requirements. I compliment you all for the same.

“I am sure this CSR Summit will generate many innovative ideas and methods towards building an inclusive, compassionate and responsive society in India. I look forward to receiving its outcomes and the work plan for the coming year. I wish the summit great success. I also wish you all Godspeed in your endeavours. Let me conclude in the words of Mahatma Gandhi: ‘Man becomes great exactly in the degree in which he works for the welfare of his fellowmen’.”

Speakers at the summit called for the development of transformational new partnerships to address the developmental issues faced by the country.

Addressing the session on ‘National Schemes – The new paradigm for partnerships’, Mr. Ram Sewak Sharma, Secretary, Department of Electronics and Information Technology, Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, highlighted the transformation that was being brought about through the Digital India Mission. He stated that a key part of the mission was the development of digital infrastructure in the form of a unique ID for every citizen i.e. Aadhar. This was to be supplemented with the Jan Dhan Yojana which is to bring about financial inclusion in the country and the proliferation of mobiles to all sections of society. In his view, this combination of technologies had the power to transform the way India implemented its development agenda.

Mr. Lov Verma, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of the Disabled, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, called on the corporate sector to contribute to schemes which address the needs of the disabled. He stated that the Government was currently implementing a plan which provides cochlear implants to children and invited the corporate

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

sector to partner in this effort. He also called upon corporates to pay greater attention to the creation of disabled friendly buildings and toilets.

Addressing the participants, Mr. Sunil Arora, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, stated that while the corporate sector was contributing towards skill development in the country, there was a need to scale this up substantially to address the skill gap in the country. He stated that companies should adopt ITIs for this purpose and said that his department would clear their proposals within a week.

Mr. V S Oberoi, Secretary, Ministry of Women and Child Development, called upon the corporate sector to address the overall issue of empowerment of women especially in the workplace. For this he stated that companies needed to pay greater attention to the issue of sexual harassment in the workplace. He encouraged corporates to induct more women into the boardroom, adopt gender friendly recruitment and retention policies as well as conduct gender sensitization programmes amongst its workforce.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII, stated that the CII Theme for the year was “Build India – Invest in Development, A Shared Responsibility” and a natural outcome of this theme was to find ways and means to partner the government’s development agenda.

At the Session on “The Boardroom Conversation”, Mr. Rakesh Bharti Mittal, Chairman, CII National CSR Summit and Vice Chairman, Bharti Enterprises, stated that companies are seeking to partner with NGOs to develop their CSR agenda and he suggested the need for greater transparency in the functioning of these NGOs. He also felt that while PSUs were also following the same route, they were only funding the capital expenditure of these NGOs and not their operational expenditure. This, in his view, needed to change and PSUs should also fund the operational expenditure of PSUs. Mr. Raghupati Singhania, Co-Chair, CII National CSR Summit and Chairman and Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. felt that the companies needed to consult the communities with which they were partnering

to gauge their needs and then tailor make the projects accordingly. He felt that there was a need to involve the local community at every stage as eventually they will be the ones who will maintain the project.

Mr. Pabitra Narayan Roy Chowdhury, Advisor, Strategic Planning and Sustainability, Adani Group, stated that whatever the government needed to do from the regulatory aspect had been taken care of by the Companies Act 2013. The government now needed to facilitate corporates undertake CSR projects. He felt that corporates, on their part, needed to step in and address the deficiencies in development that may have crept in over time. He called on the corporate sector to partner with the government to bring about a transformational change in India’s development.

Mr. Harpal Singh, Mentor and Chairman Emeritus, Fortis Healthcare, stated that there was a need to move from the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility to a concept of Fundamentally Socially Responsible Business. He stated that the government, through the Companies Act, needed to define the direction that the corporate sector should take and not the methodology and therefore there was a need to unshackle Section 7 of the Act. Dr. Bhaskar Chatterjee, Director General, Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), stated that the new Companies Act had provided an opportunity for the corporate sector to partner in India’s development. He stated that the IICA had been mandated to maintain a list of credible civil society organisations and the first set of NGOs had been put up on the IICA website.

In his address, Mr. Ashish Chauhan, Managing Director and CEO, Bombay Stock Exchange, stated that to facilitate interactive collaboration on Corporate Social Responsibility, CII, IICA and BSE had launched Sammaan: The CSR Exchange which would bring together the strength of CII's member corporate base and the Implementation Agency Hub (IA Hub) of the IICA.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

Mr. V S Oberoi

Mr. Rakesh Bharti Mittal

Mr. Raghupati Singhania

Mr. Harpal Singh

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Focus

Global Summit on CSR

Let us unite and grow together,

say industry leaders

Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak sharing the dais with Dr. Bhaskar Chatterjee, DG & CEO, IICA, Dr. Prahlad Kakkar, Advertising Film Director, Genesis Film Production & Mr. Arun Maira, Chairman, Foundation for MSME Clusters

Indian Institute of Management, Raipur in association with Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), Gurgaon and National Law School of India University, Bangalore organised the Global Summit on Corporate Social Responsibility 2015 on May 15-16, 2015 at India International Centre, New Delhi. s the world struggles to seek answers to the issues around achieving sustainability through collective action, India has already taken a leap of faith in that direction with the government taking a giant step forward. In 2011, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs released a comprehensive and a firm statement of intent and defined

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the role of corporate sector in linking corporate growth to the sustainability of the process of overall development of society. This was done in the form of the National Voluntary Guidelines (NVGs) on Social, Economic and Environmental Responsibilities of Business, which provide an overarching concept of business responsibility and linking it to

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

sustainability. The NVGs, as these guidelines have come to be known as, are voluntary in their ethos but suggest Disclosure as the means of increasing their uptake. Subsequent to this, two critical interventions by government further strengthened the resolve to carry this agenda forward. One was to mandate disclosure by top 100 listed companies and other was to bring a part of the NVGs itself from the voluntary to mandatory space by introducing

Section 135 in the Companies Act, which was finally enacted in September, 2013.

The participants in the Summit included Dr. Bhaskar Chatterji, DG and CEO, IICA, Dr. Prahlad Kakkar, Film Director, Genesis Film Production, Mr. Arun Maira, Chairman, Foundation for MSME Clusters and Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder, Sulabh Sanitation and Social Reform Movement.

Objectives:

Effective governance at the local, sub-national, national, regional and global levels representing the voices and interests of all is critical for advancing CSR. The global Summit aimed to: •

Promote the balanced integration of the three dimensions (people, planet and profit) of CSR;

•

Give an action and result-oriented approach paying due regard to all relevant crosscutting issues with the aim of contributing to the implementation of CSR;

•

Underscore the importance of inter linkages among key issues and challenges and the need for a systematic approach to them at all relevant levels;

•

Enhance coherence, reduce fragmentation and overlap and increase effectiveness, efficiency and transparency, while reinforcing coordination and cooperation;

•

Promote full and effective participation of all countries in decision making processes and showcasing their CSR Agenda.

•

Engage high-level leaders, provide policy guidance and identify specific actions to promote effective implementation of CSR,

•

Encouraging voluntary sharing of experiences and lessons learned;

•

Promote the policy interface through inclusive, evidence-based and transparent scientific assessments, as well as access to reliable, relevant and timely data in areas related to the three dimensions of CSR, building on existing mechanisms, strengthen participation of all countries in international CSR processes and capacity-building especially for developing countries, including conducting their own monitoring and assessments;

•

Enhance the participation and effective engagement of civil society and other relevant stakeholders in the relevant international forums in this regard;

•

Promote transparency and broad public participation and partnerships to implement CSR.

Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak shared his thoughts on such a vital subject during the valedictory session of Global Summit on Corporate Social Responsibility 2015. He said, though I am known as the Founder of a social and sanitation movement known as Sulabh, I see myself as a sort of social entrepreneur. Unlike other movements and NGOs, Sulabh has a remarkably non-adversarial stance towards the government and corporations, and this has helped us do some work on the ground and make a difference instead of just talking about it.

There is a growing CSR consciousness in our country, and this can also be seen in Swachh Bharat Mission which aims at a Clean India by 2019. I am happy to inform, Dr. Pathak said, that Sulabh is getting support from and working with the corporate sector in building community and school toilets, though much more needs to be done by the India Inc and the NGOs if we are serious to provide every household a toilet and make India free from the horrible malaise of open defecation.

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Focus

The only way to grow is to grow together Sulabh Bureau

ince Socrates, philosophers, sociologists, economists and thinkers have believed that men are born unequal and unequally they live and die. Plato defended slavery, killers, and exploiters who had been praised as heroes.

They ruled the world until Karl Marx was born in 1818 and Marxism was delivered 100 years later by Lenin in 1918. Monarchs and kings who ruled the world had divided the world into masters and slaves and these discriminations are also socially reflected on the basis of cast, colour, gender and professions.

But thinking changed when Marx said in his manifesto: “Everything is created out of land and nobody has created the land; therefore, those who own the land are thieves.

And, exploiters should be exploited.” And the world split into two–half capitalist, and half communist. But Mahatma Gandhi rejected both and said this is not a sustainable concept because it involves violence. Any concept built on force will be toppled by force. The enduring economics is, therefore, about working together.

True, men can neither be equal nor can they grow equally. We differ in our ability to learn, size, education, and mindset and in many other different ways which cannot be changed by social intervention. They are so made by God and only God knows how they happen; Darwin’s evolution is no full answer either.

Therefore, Gandhiji talked about trusteeship.

“We are only trustees of the resources God has given us. Let us care and share”, he said.

From this Gandhian philosophy has evolved the concept of Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) which was eloquently explained by President Pranab Mukherjee at the CSR Summit in Delhi on April 27 last. This has the support of law under the Companies Act, 2013, but law cannot force anybody to be good and helpful any more than a girl can

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be forced by law to smile and love. For this to happen, the heart has to be at the right place.

Hence, voluntarism, social responsibilities, good conscience, and loyalty to the country are evoked. Among those who attended and supported CSR at the summit were businessmen, civil society leaders, academics and ordinary men and women, whom the President addressed and advised to forget about rich or poor divided and said: “We have to grow together. Or, we will not grow at all”.

Modern industrial culture is based on unsustainable consumption, often wasteful, which means buying and consuming more than one needs or nature can provide. Since everything is produced from natural resources, which man has not created and they are limited, the growth is self-limiting. By overuse, we are destroying what we cannot replace. One reason for overlooking this vital fact is that we are inclined to treat as valueless everything that we have not created. Even Marx fell into this error when he formulated the so-called ‘labour theory of value’. This is wrong. What we get free also has value.

The development cannot be an act of creation, nor can it be ordered, bought, or comprehensively planned. Development involves a process of evolution. Technology, education, social justice and hard work have to go step by step and the policy should be to speed up this evolution of their convergence.

All these must become the property, not merely of rich, but also of poor. This is what the Gandhian economy says. E.F. Schumacher and Prime Minister Narendra Modi support it. And now the corporate world has finally accepted social responsibility which is all about growing together and living well. It is both temporal and divine of which CSR is supreme manifestation.

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Focus

Miracle on Wheels

Differently abled are fully able to face future Janak Singh

grand programme titled, “Miracle of the Human Spirit”, organised by the UN Information Centre at FICCI Auditorium in New Delhi on May 2, was a touching reminder of the plight of over 21 million people in India, accounting for 2.1 per cent of the country’s total population, suffering from one or the other kind of disability.

If the message conveyed by the programme was rather sad and pathetic, its presentation was an unmatched kaleidoscope of colour, lights and action, that held spellbound the audience of diplomats, M.Ps and leaders of various welfare organizations, including Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder of the Sulabh International and Social Reform Movement.

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Among the total disabled in the country, 12.6 million are males and 9.3 million females.

Such proportion has been reported between 57-58 per cent for males and 42-43 percent females. The disability rate (number of disabled per 100,000 populations) for the country as a whole works out to 2130. This is 2,369 in the case of males and 1,874 in the case of females.

Among the five types of disabilities on which data has been collected, disability in seeing at 48.5% emerges as the top category.

Others in sequence are: in movement (27.9%), mental (10.3%), in speech (7.5%), and in hearing (5.8%). The disabled by sex follow a similar pattern except for that the proportion of disabled females is higher in the category in seeing and in hearing.

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Sulabh Founder Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Mr. Manoj Tiwari, BJP MP with Mrs. Meenakshi Lekhi, BJP MP, lighting the ceremonial lamp at the function

Focus

We are all here on the eve of the coming into force of the UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disability to celebrate the dignity and respect that we owe to them… Thanks for being here in such large numbers today

Across the country, the highest number of disabled has been reported from the state of Uttar Pradesh (3.6 million). Significant numbers of disabled have also been reported from the state like Bihar (1.9 million), West Bengal (1.8 million), Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra (1.6 million each). Tamil Nadu is the only state, which has a higher number of disabled females than males. Among the states, Arunachal Pradesh has the highest proportion of disabled males (66.6%) and lowest proportion of female disabled.

Continuing its complex campaign to mainstream rights of persons with disabilities, UNIC New Delhi took the opportunity of the May 3 anniversary of the coming into force of the UN Convention on Persons with Disabilities in 2008, to creatively call attention to the need to approach persons with disabilities with a human and fully inclusive perspective.

Collaboration with NGO

This was achieved by collaborating with The Cradle, a renowned NGO working for the rights of persons with disabilities and with the Indian Council for UN Relations (ICUNR), a regular partner in UN outreach activities.

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A dozen artists affiliated to the Abilities Unlimited Foundation performed under the baton of their founder-choreographer Guru Salauddin Pasha. Spinning on wheel chairs their amazing performance awed the jampacked hall of the FICCI Theatre on May 2. “I can stand on my own two feet and also walk”, Guru Pasha said. “But I spend most of my time in a wheelchair trying to feel and understand to what limits I can push these performances”.

Be it the Sufi dance in which the artists whirled dervish-like on their wheelchairs, or the classical Bharatanatyam dance in which they postured atop their wheelchairs like temple sculptures, or dramatically narrating a myth from the Mahabharata epic, the show was fantastic, exhibiting the ability of the human spirit to soar despite physical limitations. The graceful girls swayed to the beats of the music.

Earlier welcoming the guests, the UNIC Director, Mrs. Kiran Mehra-Kerpelman said: “We are all here on the eve of the coming into force of the UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disability to celebrate the dignity and respect that we owe to them… Thanks for being here in such large numbers today. There is no performance without artistes and there

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

FOCUS

is no show without an audience. We need to change mindsets. So enjoy the performance and let us take the ‘Dis’ out of Disability”.

Employment Opportunity

The Director of The Cradle, Mr. Bipin Choudhary reiterated his organisation’s firm commitment to enable persons with disability, bestowing them with skills, dignity and hope, and giving them the opportunity of being gainfully employed.

In an emotional moment, Mr. K.L. Malhotra of ICUNR closed the gala performance by thanking all the artists, organisers and the audience and reciting some very apt poems which brought lots of applause from the emotionally-charged audience.

Disability is just a state of mind! Nobody is born disabled and neither is any one incapable of pursuing something, unless one has the passion, loyalty and the integrity for the same. Similar was the spirit of the physically challenged boys and girls from ‘Ability Unlimited Foundation’.

The riveting stage performances were a testimony to their indomitable spirit and confidence. Undoubtedly, Guru Pasha’s contributions and dedication towards uplifting them and bringing them in the forefront is

worthy of applause. “In all these years, all my efforts have been focused on bringing the physically disabled out of the walls within which they confine themselves. Once, they overcome this obstacle, success is an easy accomplishment!”, says Pasha.

Guru Pasha’s views were a clear reflection of the impulse and the determination of the performers. “We had never thought that we would come across such a great platform and an exceptional Guru. We met him 12 years ago and have been under his guidance ever since.

Today, we can say, if Guruji hadn’t written to us repeatedly, we wouldn’t have been where we are today!” the performers said. Humbled and honoured as they were after the appreciative response of the audience to their performance, they said, “This level of success is completely unexpected for us. However, the sad part is that there is a considerable number of physically challenged people who are still hesitant to step forward towards a brighter future. “Kismat kabhi kabhi darwaza khatkatati hai (opportunity knocks the door only once). If one is able to recognise and acknowledge that opportunity, then there is nothing that can stop them from achieving success, whether the person is physically fit or is challenged in some way,” concluded the performers in high spirits!

Immortal Words of

Jesus Christ

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

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Clean India Mission

Clean Schools Campaign Sulabh – SBI Venture Sulabh Reporter

Mrs. Arundhati Bhattacharya, Chairperson State Bank of India and Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder, Sulabh Sanitation and Social Reform Movement on the occasion of the inauguration of Toilet Block at Primary School, Shivpuri, Varanasi

lose on the heels of the nationwide Swachha Bharat Abhiyan (Clean Indian Campaign) launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, the nationwide Swachh Vidyalaya Abhiyan (Clean Schools Campaign) was launched in Shivpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, on May 15, 2015. Varanasi also happens to be the Parliamentary constituency of the Prime Minister. The launch followed the start of the prestigious Ustad Scheme for handloom weavers and artisans of the country on May 14.

State Bank of India and Sulabh International will participate in the campaign. To start with Mrs. Arundhati Bhattacharya, Chairperson, State Bank of India, dedicated to children two toilets constructed in a primary school in Shivpur. The toilets have been constructed by Sulabh Sanitation Mission Foundation, a sister organisation of Sulabh International.

Speaking on the occasion Mrs. Bhattacharya said SBI would spend Rs. 20 crore for construction of toilets in various states of the country, as part of its corporate social

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responsibility (CSR) under the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) out of which Rs. 1.9 crore was earmarked for construction of 64 toilets in 35 primary schools in Varanasi and its adjoining districts including two in Shivpur. She said, Sulabh Sanitation Mission Foundation would maintain these toilets for which separate payment would be made. Children will also be imparted training in cleanliness through the Foundation.

Mrs. Bhattacharya also announced the adoption of one district in every state to ensure 100 per cent toilet coverage in primary schools.

Ms. Bhattacharya desired to have a documentary for students on proper use of toilets and its benefits for hygiene and health and requested Dr. Pathak in this regard to take the lead and SBI would fund the endeavour.

Dr. Pathak said that Sulabh firmly believed in the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s dictum of ‘First Shauchalay then Devalaya’ and the latter had shared the various activities being undertaken by Sulabh to make India clean and healthy.

Dr. Pathak speaking on the occasion expressed his shock over the fact that about 2.5 crore people were still deprived of toilet facility.

Toilet was of vital importance for health as a number of diseases are caused because of open defecation. He appealed to the teachers of schools to keep toilets clean with the help of children.

Sulabh is collaborating with a number of public sector undertakings and corporate houses to build toilet across the country. Sulabh has been instrumental in giving a new look to the famed Assi Ghat in Varanasi. After the Prime Minister kicked off the Swachha Bharat Campaign in his constituency on November 6, Sulabh offered its assistance in cleaning the Ghat, which has now got an all new look after almost 20 years.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

lecture

Education alone will

Empower Women Indira Sinha Memorial Foundation Lecture Sulabh Reporter

he contribution to education, specially creating awareness on the issue of female education, made by late Dr. Indira Sinha, is ever memorable”, said Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder, Sulabh Sanitation and Social Reform Movement speaking at Dr. Indira Sinha Memorial Educational Foundation at the Indian Medical Association Hall, Patna on April 25, 2015.

The initiative taken by Dr. Gopal Prasad Sinha, Chairman of the Foundation, in the remembrance of Indiraji is remarkably appropriate as the Foundation has with it the word educational. Dr. Pathak related in this context a story from Mahabharata where Yudhishthir asked Bhishma Pitamah, what is the best gift. Pitamah said, it is education, and one who gets it needs no other gift.

Right education, Dr. Pathak said, opens our “

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eyes, our mind, our vision, leading to social transformation. Dr. Indira Sinha having worked as a Professor and Principal, Patna Women’s Training College, as well as a Member of the Senate and Syndicate of Patna University for a number of years made a remarkable contribution in the field of higher education leaving a perennial legacy in the field.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Gopal Prasad Sinha described the work of Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak for redeeming the lost prestige of the scavenging community and bringing them into the mainstream of society as a feat of educational revolution.

Hon’ble Mr. Udai Narain Choudhary, Speaker, Bihar Legislative Assembly, spoke on the need for liberating the common man from the evil social conventions through changing the pattern of education and

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Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak addressing the gathering

lecture

Hon’ble Dr. Udai Narain Choudhary addressing the gathering

appealed to educationists and social reformers to come forward and work in the field of social transformation. Education, he said, is a challenge not only for the government but the society at large. The rigid formulations in the present educational system need to be broken down. Unless every individual works to relate himself to the neighbouring poor and uneducated family, it will not be possible to dismantle the rigid negative bondages of our society.

Dr. I.C. Kumar, IAS (Retired), ex-Vice Chancellor, Bir Kunwar Singh University, Arrah, spoke on the social linkages of

educational system and said, the Britishers who ruled over India for a long period, demolished the Gurukul tradition of our educational system and got it linked to business.

Dr. Padmasha Jha, former Member, Bihar Legislative Council and Vice-Chancellor, Lalit Narain Mithila University, Darbhanga, emphasised upon the significance of basic education, now more important in view of the distortions occurring in our education system.

Mr. Arun Kumar Verma, State Information Commissioner, stressed the need for evolving a vision and role for education in India in the communication revolution taking place in the world.

Other distinguished participants in the function were Dr. Surendra Gopal, the eminent historian, Dr. Devi Prasad, the wellknown scientist, Mr. Rajniti Prasad, Member, Rajya Sabha, Dr. Rajiv Ranjan and Dr. Madan Murari Singh, former Principal, Patna College.

A Teacher • • • •

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A teacher is not a person to lean on, but a person to make learning unnecessary.

You are what your teacher made you.

The heart of a teacher is a deep abyss of the bottom of which you will always find forgiveness.

By and large, teachers are the only workers who do not have regular time off. They are the great vacationless class.

The teacher exhorts the students at every opportunity to jump at the sun.

We might not land on the sun, but at least we would get off the ground.

A teacher is a person who seeing there

• • • •

are only four pieces of pie for five, promptly announces he never did care for pie.

No matter how old a teacher is, he watches his middle-aged student for signs of improvement.

God could not be everywhere and therefore he made teachers.

Teacher – that was the bank where we deposited all our hurts and worries.

If you are a teacher, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A teacher always has to think twice, once for yourself and once for your student.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

Clean India Mission

The Sulabh Gift for the Carpet City wenty-five individual Sulabh toilets, constructed in village Gopepur, District Sant Ravidas Nagar, Bhadohi, by the U.P. State Branch of Sulabh International Social Service Organisation with financial cooperation of Obeetee Pvt. Ltd. under its Corporate Social Responsibility Scheme, were handed over to the concerned beneficiaries at an inaugural function on May 7, 2015, by Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder, Sulabh Sanitation and Social Reform Movement, Mr. Narendra Shanker Pandey, District Magistrate and Mr. Mithilesh Kumar, Managing Director, Obeetee.

Mr. Rajesh Kumar, Director and Secretary, Obeetee, Staff of Obeetee,

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associate members of Sulabh, U.P. Branch, distinguished guests and villagers were present on the occasion.

The quality and workmanship of the toilets were praised by everyone. Villagers, specially women and girls, were very happy and thankful to Obeetee and Sulabh. The Obeetee authorities promised to get more toilets constructed in Gopepur and the surrounding villages and also to provide solar street lights and a Weaving Training Centre for women as part of their CSR activities under the ‘Clean India Mission’, Rural Development and Women Empowerment Programme.

The Bhadohi district is one of the largest carpet manufacturing centres in India, well known for its hand-knotted carpets.

Toilet in Each Household: Sulabh Individual toilets constructed in villageGopepur, District-Sant Ravidas Nagar (Bhadohi) by the fund provided by Obeetee Pvt. Ltd.

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Clean India Mission

In the past few years Sulabh has recognised and awarded six such women who raised their voice for toilets.

No Wedding Gift, only

A Toilet, please

aughters, who are soon to be brides, do deserve and get gifts from their parents. They also may indicate their own choice which are in most cases readily complied with.

What has been remarkably different and hence noteworthy was the desire of 25-yearold Chaitali Rathore, from village Karanja Ramjanpur in Akola district of Maharashtra.

She wanted a toilet from her parents since her in-laws’ residence did not have one.

Chaitali’s father Dilip Galakhe readily gifted a potable bio-toilet to their daughter. The set was kept on display at the wedding function. The prefabricated set had a water closet, a wash basin and a mirror, standing around one foot above the ground.

Mrs. Chaitali, married (on May 15, 2015) to Devendra Mokode from a village in Yavatmal district, has been highly lauded by

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Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder of Sulabh Sanitation and Social Reform Movement as inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Clean India Campaign’ that has created awareness about sanitation right up to the villages of India. Dr. Pathak said, she would be conferred with the Sulabh Sanitation Award and a cash prize of Rs. 10 lakh. He hailed Chaitali as a messenger of sanitation.

In the past few years Sulabh has recognised and awarded six such women who raised their voice for toilets. Madhya Pradesh’s Anita Narre was awarded Rs. 7 lakh when she revolted against her husband over the issue of toilet. Priyanka Bharati and two newly-weds from Gorakhpur region in Uttar Pradesh were honoured by Sulabh for asserting the need for toilets and revolting against their in-laws. Now all of them are working as Sulabh’s ambassadors to motivate people to install toilets. Sangita, another lady from Maharashtra, who sold her Mangalsutra and built a toilet, is now working as a Sulabh campaigner.

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FOCUS

Abolishing scavenging still an

Unfinished agenda Dr. Suman Chahar

Manual scavenging is central to untouchability against which Dr. B.R. Ambedkar fought all his life. He had lived untouchability and suffered it unlike other leaders, for whom it was the question of humanitarism.

For this matter, Dr. Ambedkar was different from other social reformers, said the Sulabh Founder, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, while speaking on scavenging at Mhow where Dr. Ambedkar was born in 1893. o be true, May 12, last was a memorable day for Dr. Pathak, who was the chief guest at the Lecture Programme organised in his memory by Dr. Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar National Institute of Social Sciences. The other distinguished guests present were Mr. Pratap Karosia and Dr. R.S. Kureel, Director-General of the Institute. The function started with garlanding the statue of Babasaheb, followed by welcome address by Prof. L.C. Mallaiah, Coordinator.

Dr. Pathak was felicitated with a bouquet.

Dr. Manisha Sharma and Dr. Namita Thakur welcomed Mrs. Usha Chaumar, Chairperson, Sulabh Mission Foundation, Mrs. Guddi Athwal and other guests. The well-known journalist, Mr. Anurodh Lalit Jain, speaking on the occasion said, “We are sending space shuttles to Mars, but we have not been able, to get rid of the evil of untouchability. The battle started by Dr. Ambedkar has been resumed by Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak now”.

Addressing the gathering Mr. Pratap Karosia said: “It is a matter of pride that we have selected the subject for today’s lecture as a mark of respect for the dream of Dr. Ambedkar.

The Scheduled Castes were given the provision of reservation in our Constitution as laid down

by Babasaheb. But they still have to fight for their rights. Balmikis, who have been cleaning the households, are still a deprived class. Sulabh has struggled hard to bring them into the mainstream of society”.

Dr. Pathak in his address said, “The Institute is the first of its kind where sociology is a

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subject for study. He would like to reiterate the commitment of Sulabh to eliminate manual scavenging and untouchability. Dr. Ambedkar had a dream of an equitable and just society where people from all castes sit together to have common dinner, have the right to drink water of the common well and worship in temples”.

Dr. Pathak said, he started his work in 1968 and lived in the basti of scavengers. He was convinced that unless the children of the deprived classes were properly educated, our society would not advance forward. He started a school in 1992 as well as a vocational training centre where 60% of the students are from the Balmiki Samaj. There is no untouchability at all now in Alwar and Tonk in Rajasthan. Pointing to Mrs. Usha Chaumar and Mrs. Guddi Athwal, former scavengers, Dr. Pathak said, Mrs. Chaumar is the President of Sulabh. The liberated scavenger women in Alwar and Tonk make eatables like papad, pickles etc. which are purchased by the very people in whose houses they used to clean toilets. Sulabh has provided Sulabh Shauchalaya in all houses in Alwar and Tonk.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

Contd. on page No. 32

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FOCUS

Pure Ganga

Drinking Water for Varanasi Sulabh Reporter

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aranasi will soon get a drinking water plant at the historic Assighat, after which the people would be able to buy drinking water at 50 paise per

litre.

A French company and sanitation NGO Sulabh International have joined hands to set up a drinking water plant in Varanasi. The plant is expected to be established within the next three months. “Through a new technology, the contaminated water of Ganga river will be converted into pure drinking water at a nominal cost�. Sulabh founder Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak told IANS (May 8, 2015).

The proposed plant will produce around 8,000 litres of pure drinking water every day.

He said that Sulabh, along with French organisation '1001 Fontaines', launched a pilot project in three West Bengal districts of North 24-Parganas, Murshidabad and Nadia a few months ago and the trial run proved successful.

"Now we are going to replicate our new invention at Assi ghat," Dr. Pathak said on Thursday.

The plant is likely to cost Rs. 20 lakh, an amount that would be borne by Sulabh International.

The plant will provide safe drinking water after various stages of purification from any water bodies like rivers or ponds.

BOOK RELEASE

New magazine

renews battle for truth Sulabh Reporter

uch is the name of the magazine, ‘Satya Ke Samar Mein’, sponsored by the Satyameva Jayate Trust, Varanasi, visualised as a prominent part of the activity of the organisation of the citizens from all over the country dedicated to the cause of truth in the lives of the individual, the nation and the world at large. The Trust in its effort to assert and restore the values of life accepted worldwide in society aspires to muster during the next ten years a lac of volunteers dedicated to the cause of truth.

The function started on May 6, 2015 at Sri Baburao Vishnu Pararkar Smriti Bhawan,

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Golghar, Maidagin, Varanasi with lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the distinguished persons present on the occasion, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder, Sulabh Sanitation and Social Reform Movement being the chief guest, Prof. Krishna Bihari Pandey, Chancellor, Nehru Gram Bharati University, Allahabad, presiding over the programme and Mr. Shyamdhar, Chairman of the Satyameva Jayate Trust. The esteemed guests, thereafter, released the first issue of the magazine, ‘Satya Ke Samar Mein’ on the occasion.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

29

Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak releasing the magazine

BOOK RELEASE

Women remain weak and disempowered still

Magazine released Manoj Kumar Maithil

Mrs. Chandrakanta lighting the ceremonial lamp at the function

he All-India Poetess Conference (AIPC), Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, organised a book release and poets conference on May 2, 2015 on the Sulabh Campus, New Delhi, when the Sulabh Founder, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, launched the first edition of the quarterly literary magazine ‘Kaljayee’ and a poetic book ‘Aurat Ek Bonsai’ written by

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May 2015 SULABH INDIA

Mrs. Sunita Khokha. Renowned writer Mrs. Chandrakanta (chief guest) and historian, Dr. Lari Azad, Mrs. Sarita Chaturvedi, Mrs. Sunita Suman, Mrs. Prabha Bhargav, Mrs. Sunita Khokha and Mrs. Shaktibodh were present on the occasion. The function was started with lighting of the ceremonial lamp.

The honourable guests were garlanded and were presented shawl. The hon’ble poetesses were presented shawl as well as the editions of ‘Kaljayee’, ‘Sulabh India’ magazine, the books, ‘Caste Indian’ written by Dr. Pathak and ‘Asprishyata Ka Ant’ written and edited by Mr. Ashok Kumar Jyoti and Mr. Sanjay Tripathi.

Mrs. Prabha Bhargav gave a brief account of the AIPC’s objectives and achievements.

She expressed her gratitude to Dr. Pathak for sponsoring its activities.

Ms. Savita Gajal, Aarti Prajapati, Sunita Sharma, Prabha Bhargav, Sunita Khokha, Sujata Shiven, Dr. Seema Sharma, Doli Jamwal and others recited their poems. Dr. Lari Azad in his address expressed hope for creative cooperation for the publication of ‘Kaljayee’. He presented a comprehensive review of the work done by

Sulabh in the field of women awareness and the welfare of the society as a whole.

Dr. Pathak congratulated the AIPC and Mrs. Sunita Khokha for the launch of ‘Kaljayee’ and ‘Aurat Ek Bonsai’ and also highly praised the efforts of Dr. Lari Azad. Dr. Pathak also sang a song on the occasion.

Mrs. Chandrakanta who has been closely associated with ‘Kaljayee’ praised the significant roles played by the AIPC and Sulabh International Social Service Organisation for the uplift of women and congratulated Mrs. Sunita Khokha for the launch of ‘Aurat Ek Bonsai’.

Ms. Shrishti Adhikari from Meghalaya, Ms. Priyanka Chatterji and Ms. Vanya from Delhi presented impressive dance performances on the occasion, while Ms. Shivangi Mehra from Uttarakhand and Mrs. Monika Jain from Delhi recited songs.

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Focus COVER STORY

Sulabh’s Helping Hand to the Storm Affected Sulabh Reporter

cyclonic storm raging at high speed ripped through thousands of houses in Bihar on April 21, 2015. Among them was the house of Mr. Yogendra Biswas, a resident of Kaucheli Dagruan Village.

His daughter was about to get married for which preparations were ready. But the storm destroyed everything. The groom’s father offered to get the ceremony held in a temple. Mr. Yogendra Biswas, who had lost everything in the

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storm, had to mortgage his four bighas of land to rearrange the preparations for his daughter’s marriage.

When this news reached Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Founder, Sulabh Sanitation and Social Reform Movement, he immediately decided to help the family of Mr. Yogendra Biswas.

Dr. Pathak handed over two cheques of Rs. 2,00,000 and Rs. 3,00,000 respectively to Mr. Yogendra Biswas and his daughter, Ms. Anju on April 26, 2015.

Mr. Biswas became sentimental while receiving the cheque and said he could not believe someone would come forward to help him in such a manner. He added, he saw a god in his helper, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak. Dr. Pathak is really a god for me, he said.

Speaking on this occasion, Dr. Pathak said one should help people without any hesitation or discrimination. Dr. I.C. Kumar, IAS (Retired), Prof. Jiauddin Ahmad, Mr. M.T. Khan, Mr. Jeetendra Kumar and Mr. Sanjeev Kumar Mishra, Advisor, Sulabh International Social Service Organisation, Bihar State Branch were present on the occasion.

Contd. from page No. 27

Abolishing Scavenging still an Unfinised agenda Sulabh organised a programme on ‘Untouchability no More’ on April 13 in New Delhi. Hon’ble Mr. Rajnath Singh, Union Home Minister, who was the chief guest at the function, shared common meal with Mrs. Usha Chaumar and other ladies from Alwar and Tonk. “We all took the solemn pledge on that day that we are all Indian by caste”, Dr. Pathak added. common dinner, have the right to drink water of the common well and worship in temples. Dr. Pathak said, he started his work in 1968 and lived in the basti of scavengers. He was convinced that unless the children of the deprived classes were properly educated, our society would not advance 32

forward. He started a school in 1992 as well as a vocational training centre where 60% of the students are from the Balmiki Samaj. There is no untouchability at all now in Alwar and Tonk in Rajasthan. Mrs. Usha Chaumar and Mrs. Guddi Athwal, former scavengers, are here with us, Dr. Pathak said. Mrs. Chaumar is the President of Sulabh. The liberated scavenger women in Alwar and Tonk make eatables like papad, pickles etc. which are purchased by the very people in whose houses they used to clean toilets. Sulabh has provided Sulabh Shauchalaya in all houses in Alwar and Tonk.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

HEALTH

Home Remedies That Seldom Fail The remedial value of well-known articles of consumption that we use in our daily life as a part of our food or relief from some ailments is well known all over. Vegetables, spices, items like ice, hot water etc. have been utilized

1 3 4

by us as regular eatables or for handy relief from certain common discomfort. Information on such usage, collected from wide-ranging sources is given below.

As an effective deterrent against fatty body, visibly conspicuous in a bulging tummy, carrot should precede your regular lunch or dinner. This tames your appetite to control your weight.

Green mint leaves are equally effective. People like it crushed with something sour like lemon juice.

Equally effective in this respect are aniseed better used in boiled water.

Papaya is also useful, so is curd.

Garlic has proved after considerable research as a potent anti-oxidant, good for our heart and bloodsystem.

Flax seeds are another potent anti-oxidant as well as a proven source of Omega-3 acid vitally beneficial for our immune system.

2

5 Extensive research in the West on turmeric has proved the fact that its regular use prevents the occurrence of dementia. In cases of malignancy it has been found to retard metastasis i.e. transfers of malignant cells from its original location to another part of occurrence of a secondary tumour distant from the original site of the body.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

For discomfort on account of stomach ache, carom seeds with black salt in a small dose taken with boiled water give quick relief. Equally effective is clove in cases of acidity. Ginger, of course, taken with a pinch of salt is a well-tested help for healthy digestion.

6

Pomegranate, a tasty fruit with juicy seeds, is a proven help in cases of anemia. It is also good for heart. It has been found to be helpful in reducing weight as it reduces formation of fatty cells without affecting the quantity of insulin in the body. Pomegranate is also advised as a healthy fruit for pregnant ladies. It is good for patients of arthritis as well.

Pomegranate is a healthy fruit for our cardio-vascular system.

33

SCIENCE

Imitating

the Sun project known as ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) based in Cadarache in Southern France will weigh three times as much as Eiffel Tower and be as big as 60 foot-ball pitches. Inside the new building will be a nuclear reactor which will generate clean and safe energy through nuclear fusion. The system will be a smaller and controlled version of the same reactions that happen in our sun. Two atomic nuclei collide with each other in the system releasing energy in the form of photons. A super-hot cloud of hydrogen will rotate faster than the speed of sound while being bombarded with surges of electric current which will leave the hydrogen ten times hotter than the Sun’s core.

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The system is said to be based on the tokamak concept of magnetic confinement, in which the plasma is contained in a doughnutshaped vacuum vessel. The fuel which is a mixture of two isotopes of hydrogen, will be heated in temperatures in excess of 150 million degrees, forming a hot plasma.

By scorching it with concentrated waves of radiation, it is said, it will be possible to harness the energy in the form of photons which are created when atomic nuclei collide with each other. It is the same process of nuclear fusion which occurs on the Sun. The project started in the year 1987, is supposed to usher into early operations in the 2020’s.

The Miracle of Modular Engineering he Broad Sustainable Building Company, a Chinese construction firm has recently completed the rectangular, glass-and-steel Mini Sky City in the Hunan Provincial Capital of Changsha in China, a 57-storey skyscraper in 19 days. The building has 19 atriums, 800 apartments and office space for 4,000 people. It is claimed that the structure is safe and can withstand earthquakes. The designing and fabrication of 2,736 modules took four and a half months before construction started. The first 20 floors were completed last year and the remaining 37 floors were built from January 31 to February 17, in the year 2015.

The company engineer Chen Xiangquian claims, with the skyscraper method, they just needed to assemble the blocks. The video of the rapid assembly has become popular on Chinese sites.

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May 2015 SULABH INDIA

STORY

Queen of Spades The

Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin

T the house of Naroumov, a cavalry officer, the long winter night had been passed in gambling. At five in the morning breakfast was served to the weary players. The winners ate with relish; the losers, on the contrary, pushed back their plates and sat brooding gloomily. Under the influence of the good wine, however, the conversation then became general.

"Well, Sourine?" said the host inquiringly.

"Oh, I lost as usual. My luck is abominable.

No matter how cool I keep, I never win."

"How is it, Herman, that you never touch a card?" remarked one of the men, addressing a young officer of the Engineering Corps. "Here you are with the rest of us at five o'clock in the morning, and you have neither played nor bet all night."

"Play interests me greatly," replied the person addressed, "but I hardly care to sacrifice the necessaries of life for uncertain superfluities."

"Herman is a German, therefore economical; that explains it," said Tomsky. "But the person I can't quite understand is my grandmother, the Countess Anna Fedorovna."

"Why?" inquired a chorus of voices.

"I can't understand why my grandmother never gambles."

"I don't see anything very striking in the fact that a woman of eighty refuses to gamble," objected Naroumov.

"Have you never heard her story?"

"No--" "Well, then, listen to it. To begin with,

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sixty years ago my grandmother went to Paris, where she was all the fashion. People crowded each other in the streets to get a chance to see the 'Muscovite Venus,' as she was called. All the great ladies played faro, then. On one occasion, while playing with the Duke of Orleans, she lost an enormous sum. She told her husband of the debt, but he refused outright to pay it. Nothing could induce him to change his mind on the subject, and grandmother was at her wits' ends.

Finally, she remembered a friend of hers, Count Saint-Germain. You must have heard of him, as many wonderful stories have been told about him. He is said to have discovered the elixir of life, the philosopher's stone, and many other equally marvelous things. He had money at his disposal, and my grandmother knew it. She sent him a note asking him to come to see her.

He obeyed her summons and found her in great distress. She painted the cruelty of her husband in the darkest colors, and ended by telling the Count that she depended upon his friendship and generosity. "'I could lend you the money,' replied the Count, after a moment of thoughtfulness, 'but I know that you would not enjoy a moment's rest until you had returned it; it would only add to your embarrassment. There is another way of freeing yourself.' "'But I have no money at all,' insisted my grandmother. "'There is no need of money. Listen to me.'

"The Count then told her a secret which any of us would give a good deal to know."

The young gamesters were all attention.

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35

STORY

Tomsky lit his pipe, took a few whiffs, then continued: "The next evening, grandmother appeared at Versailles at the Queen's gaming-table. The Duke of Orleans was the dealer. Grandmother made some excuse for not having brought any money, and began to punt. She chose three cards in succession, again and again, winning every time, and was soon out of debt."

"A fable," remarked Herman; "perhaps the cards were marked."

"I hardly think so," replied Tomsky, with an air of importance.

"So you have a grandmother who knows three winning cards, and you haven't found out the magic secret."

"I must say I have not. She had four sons, one of them being my father, all of whom are devoted to play; she never told the secret to one of them. But my uncle told me this much, on his word of honor. Tchaplitzky, who died in poverty after having squandered millions, lost at one time, at play, nearly three hundred thousand rubles. He was desperate and grandmother took pity on him. She told him the three cards, making him swear never to use them again.

He returned to the game, staked fifty thousand rubles on each card, and came out ahead, after paying his debts."

As day was dawning the party now broke up, each one draining his glass and taking his leave.

The Countess Anna Fedorovna was seated before her mirror in her dressing-room.

Three women were assisting at her toilet. The old Countess no longer made the slightest pretensions to beauty, but she still clung to all the habits of her youth, and spent as much time at her toilet as she had done sixty years before.

At the window a young girl, her ward, sat at her needlework.

"Good afternoon, grandmother," cried a young officer, who had just entered the room. "I have come to ask a favor of you."

"What, Pavel?"

"I want to be allowed to present one of my friends to you, and to take you to the ball on Tuesday night."

"Take me to the ball and present him to me there."

After a few more remarks the officer walked up to the window where Lisaveta Ivanovna sat.

"Whom do you wish to present?" asked the girl.

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"Naroumov; do you know him?"

"No; is he a soldier?"

"Yes." "An engineer?"

"No; why do you ask?"

The girl smiled and made no reply.

Pavel Tomsky took his leave, and, left to herself, Lisaveta glanced out of the window.

Soon, a young officer appeared at the corner of the street; the girl blushed and bent her head low over her canvas.

This appearance of the officer had become a daily occurrence. The man was totally unknown to her, and as she was not accustomed to coquetting with the soldiers she saw on the street, she hardly knew how to explain his presence. His persistence finally roused an interest entirely strange to her. One day, she even ventured to smile upon her admirer, for such he seemed to be.

The reader need hardly be told that the officer was no other than Herman, the would-be gambler, whose imagination had been strongly excited by the story told by Tomsky of the three magic cards.

"Ah," he thought, "if the old Countess would only reveal the secret to me. Why not try to win her good-will and appeal to her sympathy?"

With this idea in mind, he took up his daily station before the house, watching the pretty face at the window, and trusting to fate to bring about the desired acquaintance.

One day, as Lisaveta was standing on the pavement about to enter the carriage after the Countess, she felt herself jostled and a note was thrust into her hand. Turning, she saw the young officer at her elbow. As quick as thought, she put the note in her glove and entered the carriage. On her return from the drive, she hastened to her chamber to read the missive, in a state of excitement mingled with fear. It was a tender and respectful declaration of affection, copied word for word from a German novel. Of this fact, Lisa was, of course, ignorant.

The young girl was much impressed by the missive, but she felt that the writer must not be encouraged. She therefore wrote a few lines of explanation and, at the first opportunity, dropped it, with the letter, out of the window. The officer hastily crossed the street, picked up the papers and entered a shop to read them.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

In no wise daunted by this rebuff, he found the opportunity to send her another note in a few days. He received no reply, but, evidently understanding the female heart, he persevered, begging for an interview. He was rewarded at last by the following: "To-night we go to the ambassador's ball.

We shall remain until two o'clock. I can arrange for a meeting in this way. After our departure, the servants will probably all go out, or go to sleep. At half-past eleven enter the vestibule

surroundings, Herman crept out of his hidingplace.

At the slight noise the old woman opened her eyes, and gazed at the intruder with a halfdazed expression.

"Have no fear, I beg of you," said Herman, in a calm voice. "I have not come to harm you, but to ask a favor of you instead."

The Countess looked at him in silence, seemingly without comprehending him. Herman thought she might be deaf, so he put his lips close to her ear and repeated his remark. The listener remained Herman watched the proceedings with a perfectly mute. curiosity not unmingled with superstitious "You could make my fortune without its costing you anything," fear. When at last she was attired in cap and pleaded the young man; "only tell gown, the old woman looked less uncanny me the three cards which are sure than when she wore her ball-dress of blue to win, and--" brocade.

Herman paused as the old woman opened her lips as if about to speak. boldly, and if you see any one, inquire for the "It was only a jest; I swear to you, it was Countess; if not, ascend the stairs, turn to the only a jest," came from the withered lips. left and go on until you come to a door, which "There was no jesting about it. Remember opens into her bedchamber. Enter this room Tchaplitzky, who, thanks to you, was able to pay and behind a screen you will find another door his debts." leading to a corridor; from this a spiral staircase An expression of interior agitation passed leads to my sitting-room. I shall expect to find over the face of the old woman; then she you there on my return." relapsed into her former apathy.

Herman trembled like a leaf as the "Will you tell me the names of the magic appointed hour drew near. He obeyed cards, or not?" asked Herman after a pause. instructions fully, and, as he met no one, he There was no reply. reached the old lady's bedchamber without The young man then drew a pistol from his difficulty. Instead of going out of the small pocket, exclaiming: "You old witch, I'll force you door behind the screen, however, he concealed to tell me!" himself in a closet to await the return of the old At the sight of the weapon the Countess Countess. gave a second sign of life. She threw back The hours dragged slowly by; at last he her head and put out her hands as if to heard the sound of wheels. Immediately lamps protect herself; then they dropped and she sat were lighted and servants began moving about. motionless.

Finally the old woman tottered into the room, Herman grasped her arm roughly, and was completely exhausted. Her women removed her about to renew his threats, when he saw that she wraps and proceeded to get her in readiness for was dead! the night. Herman watched the proceedings with *** a curiosity not unmingled with superstitious Seated in her room, still in her ball-dress, fear. When at last she was attired in cap and Lisaveta gave herself up to her reflections. She gown, the old woman looked less uncanny than had expected to find the young officer there, but when she wore her ball-dress of blue brocade. she felt relieved to see that he was not.

She sat down in an easy chair beside a table, Strangely enough, that very night at as she was in the habit of doing before retiring, the ball, Tomsky had rallied her about her and her women withdrew. As the old lady sat preference for the young officer, assuring her swaying to and fro, seemingly oblivious to her that he knew more than she supposed he did.

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37

STORY

"Of whom are you speaking?" she had asked in alarm, fearing her adventure had been discovered.

"Of the remarkable man," was the reply. "His name is Herman."

Lisa made no reply.

"This Herman," continued Tomsky, "is a romantic character; he has the profile of a Napoleon and the heart of a Mephistopheles. It is said he has at least three crimes on his conscience. But how pale you are."

"It is only a slight headache. But why do you talk to me of this Herman?"

"Because I believe he has serious intentions concerning you."

"Where has he seen me?"

"At church, perhaps, or on the street."

The conversation was interrupted at this point, to the great regret of the young girl.

The words of Tomsky made a deep impression upon her, and she realized how imprudently she had acted. She was thinking of all this and a great deal more when the door of her apartment suddenly opened, and Herman stood before her.

She drew back at sight of him, trembling violently.

"Where have you been?" she asked in a frightened whisper.

"In the bedchamber of the Countess. She is dead," was the calm reply.

"My God! What are you saying?" cried the girl.

"Furthermore, I believe that I was the cause of her death."

The words of Tomsky flashed through Lisa's mind.

Herman sat down and told her all. She listened with a 38

Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin (1799-1837) was a Russian author of the Romantic era who is considered by many to be the greatest Russian poet and the founder of modern Russian literature.

Born into the Russian nobility in Moscow, Pushkin published his first poem at the age of fifteen, and was widely recognized by the literary establishment by time of his graduation Alexander the from the Imperial Lyceum in Sergeyevich Tsarskoye Selo.

Pushkin While under the strict surveillance of the Tsar's political police and unable to publish, Pushkin wrote his most famous play, the drama Boris Godunov. His novel in verse, Eugene Onegin, was serialized between 1825 and 1832.

Notoriously touchy about his honour, Pushkin fought a total of twenty-nine duels. At the age of thirtyseven years, however, Alexander Pushkin was fatally wounded in such an encounter with Georges-Charles de Heeckeren d'Anthès. Pushkin's early death is still regarded as a catastrophe for Russian literature.

In 1937, the town of Tsarskoe Selo was renamed Pushkin in his honour. In more recent years, his life has inspired the film Pushkin: The Last Duel.

Pushkin gradually became committed to social reform and emerged as a spokesman for literary radicals. This angered the government, and led to his transfer from the capital (1820).

In 1823 Pushkin moved to Odessa, where he again clashed with the government, which sent him into exile at his mother's rural estate in Mikhailovskoe (near Pskov) from 1824 to 1826. However, some of the authorities allowed him to visit Tsar Nicholas I to petition for his release, which he obtained. Pushkin soon, again found himself under the strict control of government censors and unable to travel or publish at will.

Pushkin has profoundly influenced western writers like Henry James.

A minor planet, 2208 Pushkin, discovered in 1977

by Soviet astronomer Nikolai Stepanovich Chernykh is named after him. A crater on Mercury is also named in his honour.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

feeling of terror and disgust. So those passionate letters, that audacious pursuit were not the result of tenderness and love. It was money that he desired. The poor girl felt that she had in a sense been an accomplice in the death of her benefactress. She began to weep bitterly. Herman regarded her in silence.

"You are a monster!" exclaimed Lisa, drying her eyes.

"I didn't intend to kill her; the pistol was not even loaded.

"How are you going to get out of the house?" inquired Lisa. "It is nearly daylight.

I intended to show you the way to a secret staircase, while the Countess was asleep, as we would have to cross her chamber. Now I am afraid to do so."

"Direct me, and I will find the way alone," replied Herman.

She gave him minute instructions and a key with which to open the street door. The young man pressed the cold, inert hand, then went out.

The death of the Countess had surprised no one, as it had long been expected. Her funeral was attended by every one of note in the vicinity. Herman mingled with the throng without attracting any especial attention. After all the friends had taken their last look at the dead face, the young man approached the bier.

He prostrated himself on the cold floor, and remained motionless for a long time. He rose at last with a face almost as pale as that of the corpse itself, and went up the steps to look into the casket. As he looked down it seemed to him that the rigid face returned his glance mockingly, closing one eye. He turned abruptly away, made a false step, and fell to the floor. He was picked up, and, at the same moment, Lisaveta was carried out in a faint.

Herman did not recover his usual composure during the entire day. He dined alone at an outof-the-way restaurant, and drank a great deal, in the hope of stifling his emotion. The wine only served to stimulate his imagination. He returned home and threw himself down on his bed without undressing.

During the night he awoke with a start; the moon shone into his chamber, making everything plainly visible. Some one looked in at the window, then quickly disappeared. He paid no attention to this, but soon he heard the vestibule door open. He thought it was his orderly, returning late, drunk as usual. The step

All his ideas merged into a single one: how to turn to advantage the secret paid for so dearly. He even thought of resigning his commission and going to Paris to force a fortune from conquered fate. was an unfamiliar one, and he heard the shuffling sound of loose slippers.

The door of his room opened, and a woman in white entered. She came close to the bed, and the terrified man recognized the Countess.

"I have come to you against my will," she said abruptly; "but I was commanded to grant your request. The tray, seven, and ace in succession are the magic cards. Twenty-four hours must elapse between the use of each card, and after the three have been used you must never play again."

The fantom then turned and walked away.

Herman heard the outside door close, and again saw the form pass the window.

He rose and went out into the hall, where his orderly lay asleep on the floor. The door was closed. Finding no trace of a visitor, he returned to his room, lit his candle, and wrote down what he had just heard.

Two fixed ideas cannot exist in the brain at the same time any more than two bodies can occupy the same point in space. The tray, seven, and ace soon chased away the thoughts of the dead woman, and all other thoughts from the brain of the young officer. All his ideas merged into a single one: how to turn to advantage the secret paid for so dearly. He even thought of resigning his commission and going to Paris to force a fortune from conquered fate. Chance rescued him from his embarrassment. *** Tchekalinsky, a man who had passed his whole life at cards, opened a club at St. Petersburg. His long experience secured for him the confidence of his companions, and his hospitality and genial humor conciliated society.

The gilded youth flocked around him, neglecting society, preferring the charms of faro to those of their sweethearts. Naroumov invited Herman to accompany him to the club, and the young man accepted the invitation only too willingly.

The two officers found the apartments full.

Generals and statesmen played whist; young

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STORY

men lounged on sofas, eating ices or smoking. In his pocket and counted out the required sum. the principal salon stood a long table, at which Herman received it and at once left the table. about twenty men sat playing faro, the host of The next evening saw him at the place the establishment being the banker. again. Every one eyed him curiously, and He was a man of about sixty, gray-haired Tchekalinsky greeted him cordially. and respectable. His ruddy face shone with He selected his card and placed upon it his genial humor; his eyes sparkled and a constant fresh stake. The banker began dealing: to the smile hovered around his lips. right, a nine; to the left, a seven.

Naroumov presented Herman. The host Herman then showed his card--a seven gave him a cordial handshake, begged him not spot. The onlookers exclaimed, and the host was to stand upon ceremony, and returned, to his visibly disturbed. He counted out ninety-fourdealing. More than thirty cards were already on thousand rubles and passed them to Herman, the table. Tchekalinsky paused after each coup, who accepted them without showing the least to allow the punters time to recognize their surprise, and at once withdrew. gains or losses, politely answering all questions The following evening he went again. His and constantly smiling.

After the deal was over, the Herman trembled; looking down, he saw, cards were shuffled and the game not the ace he had selected, but the queen of began again.

"Permit me to choose a card," spades. He could scarcely believe his eyes. It said Herman, stretching out his seemed impossible that he could have made hand over the head of a portly such a mistake. gentleman, to reach a livret. The banker bowed without replying.

Herman chose a card, and wrote the amount appearance was the signal for the cessation of all of his stake upon it with a piece of chalk. occupation, every one being eager to watch the "How much is that?" asked the banker; developments of events. He selected his card--an "excuse me, sir, but I do not see well." ace.

"Forty thousand rubles," said Herman The dealing began: to the right, a queen; to coolly. the left, an ace.

All eyes were instantly turned upon the "The ace wins," remarked Herman, turning speaker. up his card without glancing at it.

"He has lost his wits," thought Naroumov.

"Your queen is killed," remarked "Allow me to observe," said Tchekalinsky, Tchekalinsky quietly. with his eternal smile, "that your stake is Herman trembled; looking down, he saw, excessive." not the ace he had selected, but the queen of "What of it?" replied Herman, nettled. "Do spades. He could scarcely believe his eyes. It you accept it or not?" seemed impossible that he could have made such The banker nodded in assent. "I have only a mistake. As he stared at the card it seemed to remind you that the cash will be necessary; of to him that the queen winked one eye at him course your word is good, but in order to keep mockingly. the confidence of my patrons, I prefer the ready "The old woman!" he exclaimed money." involuntarily.

Herman took a bank-check from his pocket The croupier raked in the money while he and handed it to his host. The latter examined it looked on in stupid terror. When he left the attentively, then laid it on the card chosen. table, all made way for him to pass; the cards He began dealing: to the right, a nine; to the were shuffled, and the gambling went on. left, a tray.

Herman became a lunatic. He was confined "The tray wins," said Herman, showing the at the hospital at Oboukov, where he spoke to card he held--a tray. no one, but kept constantly murmuring in a A murmur ran through the crowd. monotonous tone: "The tray, seven, ace! The Tchekalinsky frowned for a second only, then his tray, seven, queen!" smile returned. He took a roll of bank-bills from 40

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

From the press

The Tribune

New Delhi | Saturday | 23 May 2015

REMEMBERING DINKAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitates the family members of Ramdhari Singh Dinkar at the golden jubilee celebration of the works of the national poet at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Friday. PHOTO: MANAS RANJAN BHUI

THE HINDU MONDAY, MAY 18, 2015

Rs. 10 lakh for bride who preferred toilet to jewels

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Maharashtra bride who preferred a toilet to jewellery as wedding gift will now be given a reward of Rs. 10 lakh by Sulabh International.

“Five days after my marriage was fixed, I came to know that there is no toilet in my in-laws’ house,” Chaitali Galakhe from Akola district said.

“I requested my father and uncle to provide a toilet, which they fulfilled. I think it is more useful than some items normally given during marriage,” she said.

Chaitali got married to Devendra Makode from a village in Maharashtra’s Yavatmal district. Those who attended her marriage were

surprised to see a different item on display,amid the other usual household articles given by parents and relatives. It was a prefabricated toilet with a water closet, a washbasin and mirror, the cynosure of all eyes.

Lauding her inspiring step, Sulabh International on Sunday announced a reward of Rs. 10 lakh for her.Noted sanitation expert and Sulabh mentor Bindeshwar Pathak termed Chaitali a messenger of sanitation. Mr. Pathak saw it as an impact of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swacch Bharat campaign.

In the past few years, Sulabh has awarded six such women who raised their voice for toilets, a release said.

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From COVER the press STORY Madhya Pradesh’s Anita Narre was awarded Rs. 7 lakh when she revolted against her husband over the issue of toilet.

Priyanka Bharti and two other newly weds from Gorakhpur region in Uttar Pradesh were honoured by Sulabh for giving preference to toilets and revolting against their in-laws.

Now, all of them are working as Sulabh’s ambassadors to motivate people to install toilets. Sangita, another woman from Maharashtra, who sold her “mangalsutra” and built a toilet, is now working as a Sulabh campaigner. — PTI

The Times of India May 16, 2015

SBI pledges 20cr fund for toilets in primary schools VARANASI: State Bank of India would spend Rs 20 crore on construction of toilets in primary schools of different states. The initiative was launched by SBI chairperson Arundhati Bhattacharya in Prime Minister's constituency on Friday by dedicating two toilets at a primary school in Shivpur locality.

Arundhati Bhattacharya described the initiative as launch of a massive sanitation project across the country for making 'Swachh Bharat' campaign a reality. "The SBI has pledged to contribute to PM's call in a substantial way.

We have launched a dedicated campaign to provide toilets in primary and middle schools, she said.

In Varanasi and adjoining area as many as 64 toilets in 35 schools are being constructed.

While construction is complete in 15 schools, the rest would be ready by June end, she said.

Sulabh Sanitation Mission Foundation, a sister concern of Sulabh International, has been entrusted with the construction work.

The foundation would also take care of the maintenance and educate students and teachers about the importance of cleaning and hygiene.

Lauding the effort of low-cost sanitation expert Sulabh in improving sanitation scenario, she said, "We are confident that their expertise in this area will make the initiative a grand success."

Sulabh Sanitation movement mentor Bindeshwar Pathak thanked SBI for the decision and hoped that such initiatives would boost Modi's 'Clean India' dream.

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Sulabh's commitment to cleanliness in the historic city of Varanasi is not new. The organisation has been operating public toilets for decades and maintaining some of the ghats. Recently, Sulabh cleaned Assi Ghat. The cleaning of Kashi Viswanath Temple is also being done by the organisation. The programme was attended by teachers and schoolchildren.

A short film on sanitation with Modi's message was also screened on the occasion. Later, in another programme Bhattacharya donated a mobile medical van to Helpage India. This van would serve to the needs of the poor and underprivileged people. She also donated laser therapy machine, ECG equipment, advanced computer, one microscope and generator to Mata Anandmai Hospital in Bhadaini area.

Modi had launched Swachha Bharat campaign in the city at Assi Ghat on November 8, 2014. Later, he had also gone to

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

Distinguished Visitors

25 April, 2015 Mr. Balkrishan Mishra, Writer and Editor of Online magazines, “Pravasi Duniya” & “Pravasi Today” and Dr. Ved Vyathit, Poet and Writer, observing the different toilet models at the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets

05 May, 2015 Franchise India from the Singapore Government delegation and senior officials from SingEx, Singapore, during their visit to the Sulabh Campus

07 May, 2015 A group of 22 students, along with their Professor Mr. Matt Meyer and Coordinator Mr. Sadanand Pathak, from George Fox University, America, while on a visit to the Sulabh Campus being shown a portable toilet of the 18th century used by noblemen while they were out for hunting.

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Distinguished Visitors

08 May, 2015 Ms. Sharon Lowen, teacher along with a group of 9 students from the American Embassy School, New Delhi, while on a visit to the Sulabh Campus being shown the different models of the Sulabh roofless toilets, specially designed for those who require fresh air while using them

12 May, 2015 Sulabh International Social Service Organisation, known for its innovations in the field of sanitation, has introduced a “Sulabh Water ATM�. One can put a 1- rupee coin in a machine and collect two litres of clean potable water. Mrs. Jessica Evert, Executive Director and Mrs. Hema Pandey, Director of India Program from Child Family Health International, using the system during their visit to the Sulabh Campus

23 May, 2015 Mr. Rajeev Pathak, APS to the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Civil aviation and Mr. Dheeraj Kumar Jha, APS to the Minister of Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water and Sanitation, Government of India, looking at the Mantle Lamp, which uses human excreta-based biogas to burn, harnessed from the Sulabh Biogas plant linked with a public toilet, during their visit to the Sulabh Campus

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May 2015 SULABH INDIA

25 May, 2015 His Excellency Mr. Daniel Carmon, Ambassador of Israel and Ms. Ditza Froim, Head of Public Diplomacy, New Delhi, while on a visit to the Sulabh Campus being shown the model of one of the world's biggest toilet-cum-bath complexes at Shirdi, Maharashtra, at the footsteps of the holy shrine of Sri Sai Baba constructed by Sulabh. The model is displayed at the world famous Sulabh International Museum of Toilets in New Delhi. The toilet complex has 120 WC's, 108 bathing cubicles, 28 special toilets, six dressing rooms, rows of urinals, immaculately laid out to avoid congestion. The complex is capable of serving approximately 30,000 users everyday.

Ambassador of Israel in India tweets after his visit to the Sulabh Campus

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

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Sulabh News COVER from States STORY

Chhatisgarh Bilaspur

new Sulabh Toilet Complex built at a cost of Rs. 16.57 lakh in Karwala, Ward No. 29 in Bilaspur in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation, was inaugurated on May 23, 2015 by Hon’ble Mr. Amar Agrawal, Minister, Departments of Urban Administration,

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Commercial Tax, Industry and Public Sector Undertakings in the presence of Mayor Mr. Kishor Rai, Mr. Ashok Vidhani, Adhyaksha, Mr. Raj Kumar Pamnani, Councillor, Mr. Pankaj Kumar, Executive Engineer, esteemed citizens of the area and workers of Chhatisgarh State Branch

Jammu & Kashmir Jammu

on’ble Mr. Kavindra Gupta, Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, along with Mr. Saujanya Sharma, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, inaugurated on May 26 the new Sulabh Toilet Complex built at a cost of Rs. 8.42 lakh in Bahufort Government High Secondary School, Jammu.

Speaking on the occasion, the Hon’ble Speaker said, the Swachh Bharat Mission initiated by the Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, aims at creating awareness about sanitation among the people, particularly about the need for toilets in schools. He appreciated the good work done

by Sulabh in this regard. Mr. Saujanya Sharma requested the management to keep the toilet neat and clean. The Hony. Controller, Sulabh International Social Service Organisation, stated that Sulabh has constructed 200 toilets in the State.

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The Hon’ble J&K Speaker, Mr. Kavindra Gupta inaugurating the Sulabh Toilet Complex at Bahufort, Jammu

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

Kargil n response to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan the District Administration of Kargil proposes to entrust the works of construction and maintenance of public toilets to Sulabh International Social Service Organisation.

In this connection a high-level meeting was held at the S.P. Headquarters, Kargil, on May 5, 2015. Mr. Mohd Istikiyaq DSP and Mr. Shailendra Mishra, SP, Kargil and other officers dealing with sanitation were present.

The sanitation activities provided by Sulabh International Social Service Organisation, public toilets, community toilets in slum area and individual toilets in urban area were discussed. Regarding construction and maintenance of public toilets and individual toilets it was suggested that the land and fund will be given by the concerned authority, while Sulabh International Social Service Organisation will construct and maintain public toilets on pay-and-use basis up to a period of 30 years wherever it is feasible. Otherwise they will be maintained by Sulabh on payment basis.

Mr. Mishra was impressed by the different toilet models shown in the Sulabh literature.

He assured that fund would be arranged by him on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) basis through NTPC shortly. He also instructed the

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ADC and DSP, Kargil to arrange a joint survey along with Sulabh of the entire town where toilet facilities are needed. Subsequently the DSP Kargil, DSP, DAR, sanitation inspector of the Kargil Municipal Committee and other officials conducted a survey and identified 11 places where toilet facilities are essential for the public. During the joint survey the following observations were made by the team-

(i) There is no drainage system in the town. If septic tank is accepted it will be filled up very soon and has to be cleaned time and again.

(iii) For the drainage purpose it is essential to discuss the matter with the Hon’ble Sulabh Founder and Mr. Sen Gupta for finding a solution.

(ii) In the winter season i.e from November to March, when there is heavy snowfall and the minimum temperature is low from -25oc to - 40oc, there will be no water supply as the water becomes ice and it cracks the pipe line. A special type of pipe line for water supply is required for the winter season. Kargil is called the second coldest place in the world next to Siberia. Due to excessive cold, The frontleaching view of pit will be at a minimum depth of 2m to 3m the Sulabh Toilet and the septic tank depth will be 3m to 6m.

Complex

(iv) The area is rocky and therefore JCB will be required for digging purpose.

The matter was discussed with Mr. R.C. Jha,

Hon’ble Minister Scientist and Director-General of Science Mr. Amar Agrawal inaugurating the Laboratory, New Delhi and Mr. A.K. Sen Gupta, who Sulabh Toilet that after submission of the detailed survey assured Complex in report, he would prepare a detailed proposal with Bilaspur

(v) Groundwater level is 120 feet to 150 feet deep and therefore tubewell and submersible motor pump will be required. (vi) Electricity for pumping water will be provided by the authority. (vii) Cement, rod, bajari, stone or cement bricks and wood for doors are available for the masonry work. (viii) The working season will be from April to October only.

estimate for public toilets for Kargil.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

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Sulabh News COVER from States STORY

Madhya Pradesh Bhopal

The front view of the Sulabh Public Convenience Centre in Bhopal

Sulabh Public Convenience Centre built at a cost of Rs. 20 lakh near Satpura Bhawan in Bhopal in collaboration with the Bhopal Municipal Corporation was inaugurated on May 4 by Hon’ble Mr. Umashankar Gupta, Madhya Pradesh Minister, Department of Higher Education, Technical Education and Skill Department, in the presence of Mr. Surjeet Singh

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Hon’ble Minister Mr. Umashankar Gupta inaugurating the Sulabh Public Convenience Centre

Chouhan, Adhyaksha, Bhopal Municipal Corporation, Mr. Shankar Makoria, Member Mayor’s Parishad, Corporation officials, local citizens of the area and workers of Sulabh International Social Service Organisation, Madhya Pradesh State Branch. The centre with separate provision of toilets, urinals and bathing facility for ladies and gents will be operated and maintained by Sulabh for a period of 30 years on pay-and-use basis.

Jabalpur

newly-constructed 18-seater de luxe Sulabh Public Convenience Centre at a cost of Rs. 25 lakh in collaboration with the Jabalpur Municipality at Civic Centre, Jabalpur, was inaugurated on May 5 in the presence of Municipality Officials,

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esteemed citizens and Sulabh workers.

The centre which has separate provision of toilets, bathing facility and urinals for ladies and gents along with tubewell, will be maintained by Sulabh for a period of 30 years on pay-and-use basis.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

Rajasthan Jaipur

Kalicharan Saraf, Rajasthan Education Minister, laid the foundation stone of a fiveseater Sulabh Convenience Centre on May 16 to be constructed by Sulabh International Social Service Organisation at a cost of Rs. 25.16 lakh in collaboration with the Jaipur Municipal Corporation at 80 Feet Road, J.D.A. Park, Mahesh Nagar.

Mr. Nirmal Nahta, Mayor of Jaipur, Chief Guest Mr. Ram Charan Bohra, M.P., Mr. Manoj Bhardwaj, Deputy Mayor, Mr. Babulal Datonia, Councillor, esteemed citizens and Sulabh workers were present on the occasion.

The centre will be operated and maintained for a period of 30 years on pay-and-use basis by Sulabh.

Newly constructed five-seater Sulabh Public Convenience Centre in collaboration with the Jaipur Municipal Corporation near Sanganer Tehsil Karyalaya at a cost of Rs. 20 lakh was inaugurated on May 19 in the

presence of Hon’ble Mr. Navratna Naraniya, Mr. Vishnu Lata, Councillor, and Mrs. Suman Gurjar – social workers of Sulabh and esteemed citizens were present.

The complex will be maintained by Sulabh on pay-and-use basis for a period of 30 years.

Mr.

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Sulabh News from States

Udaipur

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four-seater Sulabh Public Convenience Centre built at a cost of Rs. 6.37 lakh at Ward No. 50, Samudayik Bhawan, near Dhan

Mandi in collaboration with the Udaipur Municipal Corporation was inaugurated on May 25 by Hon’ble Mayor Mr. Chandra Singh Kothari, in the presence of Mr. Lokesh Trivedi, Deputy Mayor, Mr. Paras Singhvi, Chairman of Nirman Samiti, Mrs. Sapna Kudia, Regional Councillor, Sulabh social workers and esteemed citizens.

The complex will be operated for a period of 30 years on pay-and-use basis by Sulabh.

Uttar Pradesh Raebareli

n eight-seater Modern Sulabh Toilet Complex, constructed at Guru Teg Bahadur Market (Super Market), Rae Bareli, with the fund provided

by Hon’ble Captain Satish Sharma, Member of Rajya Sabha, (at a cost of Rs. 17.42 lakh) was inaugurated on May 14 by Hon’ble Chairman of the Nagar Palika Parishad Mr. Mohd Iliyas in the presence of Mr. Uma Shanker Mishra, District Chief of Congress,

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Mr. Paramjeet Singh Gandhi, Sabhasad, Mr. P.N. Singh, Executive officer Nagar Palika Parishad, Mr. Raj Kumar Thakur, Hony. Dy. Controller of Sulabh and other associate members and distinguished guests.

Rae Bareli is the constituency of Hon’ble Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Congress President and this modern toilet has been constructed at her initiative.

May 2015 SULABH INDIA

International

Labour Day International Labour Day also known as International Workers Day is a celebration of the labourers and the working classes initiated by the International Labour Movement, every year on May 1.

The concept of this day began in 1886 in Chicago, U.S. Several people were killed and injured during a general strike on the eight-hour work day.

In India, the first Labour Day or May Day was celebrated in 1923 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to workers and labourers.

Buddha Jayanti May 4

Drop by drop is water pot filled, Likewise, the wise man, gathering it little by little, fills himself with good.

-Buddha

If the Whole world were put into one scale and my mother in the other, the whole world would kick the beam.

No gift to your mother can ever equal her gift to you-life.

HAPPY

Mother's Day M ay, 10

ISSN: 2230–7567

R.N.I. Regn. No. 49322/89

ISSN: 2230–7567

Glimpses from the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the works of Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh Dinkar

may 2015, ` 20/-

The Prime Minister lighting the lamp at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the works of Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, Mr. Prasoon Joshi, Dr. C.P. Thakur, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak and Mr. Sharada Prasad Saidpuri standing with him.