swarnim samapan - gujarat information · pdf file · 2011-07-20abhisar gaur akshaya...
TRANSCRIPT
EVERY CHILD HAS A RIGHT TO EDUCATIONLET’S MAKE SURE THEY GET IT
Kanya Kelavani and Shala Pravesh Mahotsav - 2011
An initiative to give every child a child’s world
IS IT OK THAT ONLY YOUR CHILDGOES TO SCHOOL . . .
WHAT ABOUTHIM?
1
July, 2011
The launch of the magazine during our Swarnim Jayanti year had been a
result of our readers' long felt need for an English magazine even as its sister
Gujarati publication has come a long way in bringing News & Views to
readers scattered all over the globe. Now with this third successful issue of
the magazine out, we hope to reach out to more readers than ever before.
The cover story of the third issue of The Gujarat is aptly about the
Swarnim Jayanti Samapan (concluding) ceremony that was held on May 1,
2011. In the last one year the state has seen several people-oriented
programs and unique initiatives taken up by the state government thanks to
its 5.5-lakh karma yogis — across all levels ? for their wholehearted
contribution to help Gujarat cross many milestones in various sectors. This
unstinted support in the service of 6-crore people has made for a
governance model to emulate. Today, as we look back, we see Gujarat
taking a quantum leap in every sphere of development.
Gujarat is sure to reach new heights in the coming years and there have
been enough indications towards it since we flagged-off the year-long
golden jubilee celebrations on May 1 of 2010. The Swarnim Jayanti may
have ended but it has laid the foundation stone for future growth and
prosperity, indeed for a Swarnim Yug. This is the dream of every Gujarati
and I share the same dream.
I hope this issue too, like the previous ones, shall prove to be a useful,
informative and enjoyable guide on the various developments taking place
in Gujarat.
Message from the CM
Jai Jai Garvi Gujarat, Jai Hind
Narendra ModiChief Minister, Gujarat
CHIEF EDITOR V. Thiruppugazh
MANAGING EDITORArvind Patel
Dy. CHIEF EDITOR Pulak Trivedi
TEAM CHIEFV.N. Balakrishna
TEAM 'THE GUJARAT'Abhisar Gaur
Akshaya KaranthAnkita Biswas
Mihir ShahNitasha Nair
Sahit ChirutapudiVasant Iyer
Vineet Kanabar
DESIGN & LAYOUTGrey Orange Brand Pvt. Ltd.
DISTRIBUTIONSharad Bumbadiya
Jayesh Dave
______________________Letters should be addressed to
Commissionerate of Information
Floor no 2, Block no 7, Old Sachivalaya,
Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India- 382010
All rights reserved. Any reproduction of this
publication's contents, in whole or in part,
without written permission, is prohibited.
The Gujarat does not necessarily agree with
the views of the writers/contributors.
Printed by
Sahitya Mudranalya Pvt.Ltd.
Published by
Commissionerate of Information,
Government of Gujarat
Printed at
Sahitya Mudranalya Pvt.Ltd.
City mill Compound, Kankaria Road,
Amdavad-380022
Published at
Commissioner of Information,
7/2. Dr. Jivraj Mehta Bhavan,
Gandhinagar-382010
E-mail: [email protected]
VOL-1, ISSUE-3 July,2011
An English Quarterly Magazine
Index
2
July, 2011
16 Business this Quarter
A snapshot of the business
news in Gujarat
18 Sector Overview
Pharmaceutical Industry of
Gujarat
20 Swarnim Samapan
A look back into the Golden
year
28 Gujarat Luminaries
Eminent personalities
who shaped Gujarat-
Umashankar Joshi
29 Vibrant Wildlife - Diinesh
Kumble
A photographic representation of
Gujarat’s Wildlife
30 Solar Energy
Enroute to sustainable-
sufficiency
32 Maximum Governance
Understanding Taluka Sarkar
34 Higher Education in Gujarat
The rise of a new knowledge
destination
36 Tribal Welfare
A Progress Report
Business
On a lighter note
Book Review
Environment
In Focus
Cover Story
A flashback Page 20 - 27
Page 20 - 26
Swarnim Samapan - 2011
3 Quick Bytes
Gujarat this Quarter
Government Initiatives
6 Krushi Mahotsav
The story behind Gujarat’s
agri-miracle
9 Urbanisation in Gujarat
Gujarat’s urban makeover
10 Shala Praveshotsav
Looking beyond the numbers
12 Anganwadi
A visit to the courtyard of
nurturing
14 Animal Hostel
Bettering lives for our four-
legged friends
38 Photo Feature
40 Lajja Gauswami
A candid chat with Gujarat’s
ace shooter
42 Saputara
Gujarat’s own hill station
44 Tangalia
A peek into an age old craft
of weaving
46 The Potato Story
The Origins of Aloo in
Gujarat
48 Upcoming Events
In Conversation With
Travel
Arts & Culture
Special Feature
A Book ReviewPage 29
Quick Bytes
3
July, 2011
Gujarat inks MoU to strengthen gave away trophies to the winners. statistical systems The first and second winners in each
The state government signed a category received cash awards of Rs 1 Memorandum of Understanding lakh and ̀ 50,000 each. (MoU) with the Government of India in the presence of Chief Secretary Shri S w a r n i m G u j a r a t M e g a A.K.Joti. The MoU is regarding the Exhibition in Gandhinagar State Strategic Statistical Plan (SSSP) The week-long 'Swarnim Gujarat and aims at strengthening the Mega Exhibition' at Mahatma Mandir statistical systems of the state. in Gandhinagar was inaugurated by agency can be gauged from the fact
With the signing of MoU, the state Dr.Shrimati Kamla on April 29 as the that the total estimated cost of the government has participated in curtains came down on Gujarat's works it intends to commence in the centrally sponsored Indian Statistical current fiscal itself i.e. ̀ 9,100 crore is Strengthening Project (ISSP) and will not only close to half of the total receive a fund of ̀ 54.32-cr as a part of amount spent on the project so far in it. last fifty years, but also nearly half of
SSSP wi l l he lp the s ta te the remaining expenditure required government to thoroughly study its for completion of the entire project. existing statistical framework and to The stipulated timeframe for all of the get the precise statistics in a timely works to be started this year is not manner, enabling the decision making more than 24 months and SSNNL has process to be more effective. It will done meticulous planning for the golden jubilee celebrations which also provide necessary databank completion within the deadline.began on May 1 last year. The Mega pertaining to the state's flagship exhibition spread over 2.5-lakh sq. ft. programmes like Sagarkhedu Yojana, CM Modi launches e-broadcast showcased the state's development Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana, Garib project in Amreliand its potential for growth. Three Samriddhi Yojana and others. Chief Minister Narendra Modi domes were erected on the venue
launched yet another e-governance named as Tapi, Sabarmati and CM Modi conducts quiz final at initiative - 'Gujarat swarnim gram e-Narmada that housed the various
Mahatma Mandir broadcast project' in Amreli district. items showcased by different Chief Minister Narendra Modi Giving details of the project, the Chief departments of the state government.
conducted the final of Gujarat quiz Minister said that the government will contest which saw participation by put up huge LED screens at public Narmada Canal works worthstudents of various schools and places in villages and will give useful ` 9,100 crore this yearcolleges at Mahatma Mandir in information such as precautionary In line with its commitment to
measures to be taken at the time of complete the Sardar Sarovar Project natural calamities, information on (SSP) at the earliest, Sardar Sarovar pro-people Narmada Nigam Ltd (SSNNL)
commenced various canal works worth ` 1,933 crore in April alone. This includes eight major works meant for Kutch Branch Canal
Government to chip in with 45K (KBC), Morbi Branch Canal & in the building of pucca houses for Limbdi Branch Canal. The figure the urban poorwent up to ` 2,644 crore in May with
Gandhinagar. More than 28 lakh The Government of Gujarat has start of three other major works under students took part in the Swarnim year given the nod to give additional aid to KBC and Radhanpur Branch Canal. quiz. The CM also announced the urban poor for building pukka While the foundation stones for all of launch of an online quiz contest in (concrete) houses. Giving details of these works were laid by Gujarat 2012 that would be based on Swami the decision, state government Chief Minister Narendra Modi, the Vivekanand's life. The Chief Minister spokespersons Jaynarayan Vyas and level of preparedness on part of the
schemes, health services, up-to-date details of commodity rates and other vital information through this medium.
Gujarat this quarter
Quick Bytes
4
Saurabh Patel said that Government of solar power plant set up by Azure India, under its scheme 'Integrated Power at Kharoda in Modasa taluka in Housing & Slum Development Project Sabarkantha district. “Gujarat would (IHSDP)', chips in with ` 80,000 while become the only state to generate 100-the state government gives ̀ 10,000 and MW solar energy in six months creating local bodies and beneficiaries job opportunities for one lakh people,” collectively contribute ̀ 10,000, for the the chief minister said during the making of a pukaa house, that costs i n a u g u r a t i o n . A z u r e P o w e r ` 1,00,000 However, in the present commissioned the ` 170-crore plant on time, a pukka house with all basic facilities cannot be built in less than earthquake which saw massive ` 1,70,000. Keeping this in mind, the Reconstruction & Rehabilitation with state government has increased its people's participation – an exercise that share to ` 45,000. With this increase in invited global attention and accolade. the state government's contribution, a National Disaster Management poor urban beneficiary can now get a Authority (NDMA) Vice-Chairman M. pukka house with all basic facilities by Shashidhar Reddy delivered the contributing ̀ 45,000 as his share keynote address. The conference was
International meet on 'Post- organized by Gujarat State Disaster Earthquake Reconstruction' Management Authority (GSDMA) set
A t h r e e - d a y i n t e r n a t i o n a l a 63 acre plot in just nine months. It has up soon after the catastrophic conference on 'Post Earthquake so far invested ` 45-crore in the solar earthquake. Reconstruction – Lessons Learnt and sector. Way Forward' was held in Gandhinagar 5 MW solar power plant on April 14. Experts across the country Cookery shows launched to inauguratedand abroad shared their experiences improve state nutrition levelsGujarat Chief Minister Narendra during the conference on a theme New steps are being taken to Modi on June 10, 2011 dedicated to the based on Gujarat's story of courage improve nutrition levels in the state. people the country's biggest 5 MW following the January 26, 2001
July, 2011
Awards Galoresickle-shaped red blood cells and this According to officials, Swarnim disease is prevalent in certain tribes Gujarat celebrations at Sardar Patel affecting a very large tribal population stadium on May 1 made it to Guinness
Gujarat bags Prime Minister's of the state. The Government had Book of World Records in the world's Civil Services Award started the Sickle Cell Anaemia Control biggest dance and music programme
Gujarat was awarded Prime Programme in four districts of South category. Over 4,500 artists took part in Minister's Civil Services Award for Gujarat in 2006 which was later the even t which marked the successfully tackling Sickle Cell expanded to all 12 tribal districts of the culmination of a year-long programme Anemia by Prime Minister Dr. State. The Government has also signed to celebrate 50 years of Gujarat state.Manmohan Singh in a function held at an MoU with GIOSTAR, a USA based The simultaneous participation of Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. company for creating stem cell over 20,000 chess players in the
The award was given to the faculties at the Government Medical 'Golden Chess Mahotsav' at Gujarat Commissionerate of Health, Medical College, Surat. University ground on December 24, Services & Medical Education for 2010, also entered the popular record conceptualizing, planning and Swarnim Gujarat in Guinness book.implementing Sickle Cell Anemia Book Marathon classical vocalist Ms Control Programme in the tribal areas Gujarat made it to the Guinness Dhari 'Panchamda' got the Guinness of the State on Civil Service Day – Book of World Records with as many as certificate for setting a world record of 2011. six entries during the state's year long singing continuously during Tana Riri
Sickle Cell Anaemia is a serious golden jubilee celebrations, which Music Festival at Vadnagar in north disorder in which the body makes ended on May first this year. Gujarat for 101 hours and 23 minutes
5
While the government has already been announced the use of social networking distributing premixes as nutritional websites Facebook and Twitter to supplements at Anganwadis, it is now connect with the technically versed being taken one step further. A recipe generation, predominantly the massive book with 72 recipes involving the youth populace in order to circulate premixes has been brought out to make news and information on government the premixes more palatable and ensure activities and schemes . In a short span greater consumption. Further these of time the Faceboook page has already r e c i p e s h a v e a l r e a d y b e e n crossed 1,000 'likes' while the twitter demonstrated as part of cookery shows page is also garnering 'followers'
that will keep track of students and will across Anganwadis in Gujarat. These steadily.inform the teachers and parents about cookery shows are organised on the the students who are most likely to drop third Thursday of every month, where out in the middle of their studies.all pregnant women, adolescent girls
By this technique, the state and young mothers are called and given government wishes to completely demonstrations. Women members of eliminate instances of 'drop-outs' and the State Cabinet like Anandiben Patel gradually implement such systems and Vasuben Trivedi also participated across the state in line with the vision of in the cookery shows.implementing systems to improve the overall health of the education system State Government launches with the aid of state sponsored schemes unique 'School Dropout Tracking The pages can be accessed on such as 'Shala Praveshotsav' and 'Kanya System' (Facebook ) http://www.facebook.com/ Kelavani'.The state government has now gujaratinformation.official and on
launched the first-of-its-kind 'School (Twitter) twitter.com/InfoGujarat.Gujarat Information Department Dropout Tracking System' in Mehsana
on Facebook and Twitteron a pilot basis with a view to minimize The Guja ra t Government ' s the instances of school dropouts in the
Department of information has state. The system is based on software
July, 2011
from November 11 315 percussionists simultaneously Tagore Hall on WBD day which had to 15, 2010. playing tabla on April 29, 2011. Chief Minister Narendra Modi and
Ms Dhari got a Governor Dr Kamla as guests. Former G u i n n e s s Sherdil award for blood donors chief justice of Gujarat and Andhra c e r t i f i c a t e f o r Ahmedabad Red Cross Society Pradesh high courts, retired Justice BJ creating a world (ACRS) on ̀ World Blood Donors` Day Diwan, said, "I have been donating r e c o r d o f on June 14 acknowledged the feat of blood since the age of 18. I feel fulfilled
presenting 214 ragas (tunes) and 271 centurion blood donors from the state and proud to be a centurion blood 'bandish' (musical compositions) at a for saving hundreds of lives. The state donor." Diwan is today 92.t ime dur ing Akhand Swargan government too has awarded around "Red Cross, Gujarat chapter has Mahayajna at the Tana Riri Music 125 blood donors with the `Sherdil completed 50 years and today it`s at the Festival. Gujarat` award during an event at top in the country in terms of blood
Ms Dhari got yet another Guinness donation figures. It`s the philanthropic certificate for creating a world record of spirit of the residents of the state that playing non-stop a self-composed has made a significant difference in the composition of 29 ragas on the santoor society," said Mukesh Patel, president, from April 26 to 27, 2011. ACRS. A thalassemia patient Meera
The Ahmedabad-based Tabla Nayak, 27, who has been needing blood Training Centre run by Munjal Mehta transfusion from the age of three, won the Guinness Book of World thanked the blood donors gathered at Records certificate for a unique feat of the event.
Quick Bytes
6
revolution of sorts Gujarat is in for back in the form of 'Jal Kranti'. If springing some surprises in the farm Gujarat could provide the nation the sector, sooner than anticipated. It is 'Shwet Kranti', also known as 'White
The success of the first Green 'anticipated', because a series of Revolution', it could well steer the Revolution in India is attributed to conscious and concrete decisions were second 'Harit Kranti' or Green hybrid seeds which consumed huge taken in this direction over the last Revolution. quantity of water, chemical fertilizers decade to ensure the farm inputs indeed A host of initiatives, each a and pesticides. With the cost of these increase. Though confident of success, brainchild of Chief Minister Narendra inputs going skywards, experts now the decision-makers have not yet Modi, were launched during this period feel, 'precision farming' ensuring announced it as 'second green to increase farm output. They included 'judicious use' of farm inputs should revolution' per se, because to a great gravity-based Narmada canal network, drive a second green revolution. extent it depends on the monsoon. pipeline-based Sujalam Suphalam
If modesty permits, it is no The seeds of second green Yojna, Inter-Linking of Rivers, Jyoti exaggeration to state that a silent revolution were sown about a decade Gram Yojna to provide 3-phase 24x7
A farmer's best friend
KrushiMahotsav
by V.K.Chakravarti
Government Initiatives July, 2011
7
uninterrupted power to the rural feeders different from its previous six versions and Soil Health Card – each a success in many ways. The stress is on story in itself that requires a separate 'precision farming' for 'optimum' or chapter for elaboration. 'judicious' management of 'inputs' in
agriculture. In his words, “Innovative methods like sprinkler and drip irrigation not only saves wastage of
It was actually felt a few years back water but also checks soil erosion.”that the gains of these initiatives had drill to execute the plan with clockwise reached a plateau. It needed another precision. thrust. After several brain storming The other highlight of Krushi One lakh government officials from sessions, it was decided to start yet Mahotsav-2011 was the inauguration of 15 depar tments and s ta tutory another farsighted initiative in the form the country's first Animal Hostel corporations camped in villages for 30 of Krushi Mahotsav, as an 'innovative equipped with modern gadgets and day during the Mahotsav. They convergence of different schemes' or management systems at Akodra near converged at villages at the height of consolidation of age-old traditional Himatnagar in Sabarantha district.summer, when the mercury hovers farming with high-tech for maximizing above 40 degrees Celsius. The force results. was divided into 225 teams for as many
CM Modi had launched the first Now that Gujarat has written a talukas (blocks or sub-divisions). Krushi Mahotsav in 2005. Over the success story in 'water management' The core teams comprised of 700 years, it emerged as a one-of-its-kind through a series of small steps at a scientists from the four agricultural massive multi-location mega event in massive scale, it look so simple now. universities in the state, as many man and material management. Its Some even comment as to why such scientists and extension officers from biggest aim is to create awareness about basic but brilliant ideas did not strike the agriculture department, talatis and various channels and knowledge experts earlier. 2,200 gram sevaks. Each team visited available. He himself snatches time It consisted of conservation of rain three to four villages daily to be able to from his busy schedule to be present at water, building a series of check dams cover an average of 70-80 villages in as many places as possible during the and 'bori' bunds (made of sand-filled each taluka in 30 days, thus covering all month. gunny bags) on rivulets and stream in the 18,000-odd villages during the
the hilly regions and digging 'khet month. talavdis' or farm ponds in the plains. It
Inaugurating the 7th Krushi has reached astonishing data of 1.70-Mahotsav on May 6, 2011, the Chief lakh check dams, 60,000 bori bunds and The Krushi Mahotsav-2011 is Minister said the sustained efforts have brought 13-lakh hectares of additional land under farming alongside establishing the state as 'Number One' i n s y s t e m a t i c a n d s c i e n t i f i c development of the farm sector over this period.
As the words imply, CM Modi named it as a 'krushi mahotsav', meaning a mega festival in the farm sector, because it touched not just 60-lakh farmers and farm labourers but also the 6-crore consumers in Gujarat, but more than 120-crore consumers across India.
It is far bigger in size and scope than other annual fairs and festivals the state arranged like 'Garib Kalyan Mela' or 'Shala Praveshotsav'. It takes a lot of homework, academic-administrative synergy, great political will and administrative skill and technocrats'
C O N V E R G E N C E O F SCHEMES:
ANIMAL HOSTEL:
JAL KRANTI:
KRUSHI MAHOTSAV 2011:
PRECISION FARMING:
Government InitiativesJuly, 2011
Helping Hand : The CM presents a cheque at Krushi Mahotsav 2011
Krushi Mahotsav 201118,000 villages, 225 talukas1 lakh government officers, employees and agricultural scientists, 1 month
8
2.40-lakh farm ponds. tradition behind it. Gujarat's farmers are grains.known to be progressive and pragmatic. With just six per cent of land mass or They go for more cash crops, rather gross area under cultivation, the latest
It is a unique concept launched by than foodgrains. The former's yield in comparative figures show, Gujarat's the state a few years back to issue soil terms of value, in rupees per unit of share in the national kitty is in 2-digit in health cards to the land-holders, on the land, is higher in oilseeds, spices, fruits several crops.lines of health card for human beings. It and vegetables than in plain food contains details like soil quality, fertility, carbon, phosphorus, potassium contents, crops fit to grow in alkaline or acidic soil conditions.
As an incentive to increase seeds output, the Gujarat Government had introduced a 'Seeds Village' scheme, with a provision for subsidy up to 50 per cent on the cost of seeds.
The twin major objectives of the Mahotsav are to sensitize farmers about the urgent need to increase agricultural output and creating awareness about the government schemes and incentives available for the taking. The centre of attraction is the 'krushi rath, a mobile exhibition van.
As to why Gujarat should take a lead in heralding a second green revolution in India, there is some history and
SOIL HEALTH CARDS:
SEEDS VILLAGE SCHEME:
KRUSHI RATH:
GUJARAT'S SHARE IN INDIA:
July, 2011Government Initiatives
Scientific Farming : Farmers have taken to scientific methods of pest control
Gujarat share in India
Item/Crop unit Gujarat India % ShareArea – 2001 Sq. km 196,024 32,87,263 5.96Population–2001 In '000 5,06,71 102,87,37 4.93Gross area sown '000 Ha 11,304 192,796 5.86Net area sown '000 Ha 9,852 141,891 6.94
Production of Principal Crops
(Source: Socio-Economic Review, Gujarat State, 2009-10)
Cotton 000 Bales 6,772 18,499 36.61Groundnut 000 MT 3,389 7,993 42.40All Oilseeds 000 MT 4,682 27,978 16.73Onion 000 MT 1,817 9,248 19.65Chikoo (Sapota) 000 MT 236 1,117 21.13Lime 000 MT 303 1,786 16.97Papaya 000 MT 323 2,317 13.94Banana 000 MT 2,499 18,702 13.36
9
ujarat is reported to have office et al. The Regulation for process. Another ` 7,000 crores have t h e h i g h e s t r a t e o f Residential Townships 2009 on the been allocated for infrastructure Gurbanisation among all other hand aims to make available development as part of Gujarat's
states in the country according to the affordable housing at the same time Golden Jubilee Urban Development latest National Sample Survey opening up areas for development. Programme this year.Organisation (NSSO) report. Further, the urban health mission As we see Gujarat making rapid
Gujarat's urban population now has been launched in the first week of strides in the field of public stands at 42.6 per cent, having grown at April this year. ` 55 crores have been development and welfare, the absolute a rate of 19.7 percent over the past allocated for two urban projects at i m p e r a t i v e n e s s o f f i r s t - c l a s s decade. The reason for this rapid rate of Jamnagar; the ̀ 25 crores Underground infrastructural facilities to aid and urbanisation is the rapid growth in Sewer Project and the ` 30 crores complement this intent can never be industrial and services sector that Vajpayee Urban Development Project. discounted.Gujarat has witnessed over the last Solid waste management and waste It is for this reason that the state decade. water treatment plants are also intended government has decided to tread down
With almost three crores of to be set up in 50 towns in the state. The the road of continuous development in Gujarat's population staying in urban manure generated in these projects is the domain of infras t ructural areas the Government of Gujarat has meant to act as the cross subsidy in the development.outlayed ` 30 billion for urban development for the years 2010 -11.
Key policy initiatives in this direction include the Regulations for Rehabilitation and Redevelopment for slums 2010 and Regulations for Residential Townships 2009. The former involves providing slum dwellers with clean and pukka houses and rehabilitating them through private initiative. This is meant to work as a regulatory framework rather than a project based approach to achieve objectives. The initiative intends to provide the following facilities as its objective: Dwelling units with a minimum of 25 sq ft area and basic facilities as well as social infrastructure like schools, community centre, post
July, 2011
URBANISATIONURBANISATION IN GUJARAT
Government Initiatives
Zipping Ahead :Rapid urbanisation has led to a luxurious and comfortable lifestyle
10
to elite status and the occasion will be more enrolment in schools around the marked by the village’s first ever visit state, and a marked increase in literacy by any Chief Minister. rates from the previous census in 2001.
The helicopter's whirring lifts the This year too, as in previous he excitement is palpable. people off their seats on the ground as editions of the drive, Team Gujarat The entire vi l lage of they clamour to catch an early glimpse headed out in different directions in the TSardarpur has gathered at the of CM Narendra Modi, prompting the state, carrying the message of local government school, students principal into coaxing and cajoling the education, trying to convince parents to dressed in crisp uniforms seated in front gathering into maintaining order over put their child in school and ensuring of the dais, as their parents and other the public address system, with an they stay there, as the government aims village-folk sit in an arc around them. eclectic mixture of chants including to increase an all-round stature of living The preparations are all in order, with 'Vande Mataram'. around the state. About 33,000 schools the dignitaries sitting on the left of the
The Kanya Kelavani & Shala were covered this year, with Chief stage. Pravesh Mahotsav entered its ninth year Minister Narendra Modi leading a team The neat order of the morning is of encouraging formal education of ministers & politicians, bureaucrats, ruffled as the sound of an approaching among the youth of the state, with educators and government servants on helicopter fills the greying skies on this special focus on the girls, amid the 16th, 17th and 18th June in rural pleasant June morning. Sardarpur, a celebratory claims of zero per cent Gujarat, and repeating the exercise in its village in the Mehsana district has dropout rates being attained in several urban leg on 23rd, 24th and 25th of the much to celebrate – the 250th districts of Gujarat. The journey that same month. anniversary of the village's founding, began about a decade ago has begun to The change in scenario hasn't 100% enrolment in schools and a 0% show signs of success with more and happened overnight. Since 2003, the drop-out rate have elevated the village
July, 2011
Kanya Kelavni - A move in the right directionKanya Kelavani - A move in the right directionEDUCATION FOR ALL
Government Initiatives
by Vineet Kanabar
11
state machinery has worked tirelessly been equipped with power supply and to put in place schemes and trusts to potable drinking water. Laying greater cover all bases needed to bring in much emphasis on middle school and to needed behavioural change to alter the prolong the children's stay in school, life cycle of citizens around the state. the state has built over four and a half All public officials, including the lakh wooden benches to be used in government's highest ranking officials classes four, five and six. visited pre-assigned territories, This is the year that the fruits of
something greater of themselves, covering schools, in what has now Kanya Kelavani have been borne in the
carrying on along the path of education.become a customary exercise in the village of Sardarpur, as the stated twin
The state's provisions are in place calendar. Emphasis on the education of objectives of 100% enrolment and 0%
for higher education too. Girls electing girl children led to the formation of the drop-out rate have been met. The
to take admission in SPIPA in Vidyalaxmi scheme, introduced during Sarpanch of the village is elated and
preparation for the civil services exam the last few years in villages with speaks proudly about the principal and
are provided with a stipend of ̀ 10,000. female literacy rate less than 35% and the teachers who have dedicated time
A prize of ` 5,000 is given to first three in urban areas for girls belonging to and efforts in ensuring that the school
girl topers in HSC/SSC exams in each below-poverty-line families. Aimed at promotes itself from grade D to C, even
talukas and a prize of ̀ 5,000 is given to a higher retention rate among students, as the principal vows not to rest until
first three differently abled girl toppers a bond is issued when the girl child grade A is achieved. This ambition sets
in HSC/SSC exams in each taluka.enters either class 1 or 8.When the child the tone for the speech that everyone in
The state's commitment towards graduates, in class 7, or class 12, the the audience has been waiting for. The
education and literacy has yielded bond is en-cashed with interest. Chief Minister gets up, and in a
another facet of this monumental And the effects can be seen on this disarming tone, warms the crowd up for
development effort. Educated Gujarati day as well, with the girls receiving what is essentially an earnest plea to the
youth have been provided with an more prizes than the boys, as the chief citizens gathered, and those at home to
opportunity for employment, within the minister hands them out to achievers in ensure that their children stay in school
state, with 1,21,358 Vidhya Sahayaks academics. It defies imagination to and to be regular in their studies to reap
recruited in the Swarnim year to understand what a gesture such as the rewards of the efforts of the state.
continue the emphasis on providing handing prizes out to little children in He then asks the gathered men and
education for all. The infrastructure of an unassuming village can have on the women to raise their hand if they didn't
schools has also rapidly been psyche of an enterprising young know how to read or write, sending a
redeveloped, with separate classrooms, student. To many it represents current of murmurs among the crowd,
toilets and laboratories built all across something to aspire to next year, and to who exchange ashamed glances.
the state. 13,560 of the 32,722 schools those who were there this year, it is Taking a cue, he continues to say that if
in the state have been provided with motivation to go on and make they don't want their children to feel
computers, even as all of them have ashamed the same way when someone asks them this question, ensure that they stay in school and study regularly, like the father figure that many regard him to be.
With almost a decade behind it, the Kanya Kelavani and Shala Pravesh Mahotsav are among the most popular and successful schemes of the government. The onus of its continuous success now rests equally on those at home to share the expectation of educating the entire state, as it does on the government to continue performing at the mark that it has set for itself. With a report card like this, the state's efforts towards 100% literacy are set to yield excellent results for years to come.
Joy of Education :` 44 crores has already gone into the kitty of the Kanya Kelavani fund
Government InitiativesJuly, 2011
Dropout rate in classes
1 – 5 reduced to 2.09% in
2010-11 as compared to
20.93% in 2000-01
12
t's a hot summer Tuesday at adolescence. The Anganwadi worker Anganwadi, Madhuben tries to Nana Shahpur, but that doesn't plays an important role of helping the schedule discussions and meetings on Ideter the young girls in the girls understand the rituals of growing holidays. She also maintains a roster of
village from going to the Anganwadi. up and preparing them for the future. all the girls and children and makes it a They all gather around the Anganwadi This becomes the only place where point to make house visits to them. This worker, Madhuben's rendition of the issues like menstruation and birth ensures that the girls do not miss out on premixes distributed to make up for the control can be discussed and proper information and knowledge when they basic nutrient requirements while information given. The Nana Shahpur are unable to attend.simultaneously settling down for the Anganwadi has 49 children and 60 Knowledge is one of the most day's discussion. Twice a week they adolescent girls and young women. important resources disseminated at the gather to discuss the various issues Some of the girls go out to work in the Anganwadi. As Mrs. Sunaina Tomar, concerning them. Today's interaction fields and are unable to attend. Here at Sec re ta ry, Women and Ch i ld centres itself on proper hygiene Nana Shahpur, quite a few families Development Department, Government practices. relocate entirely in search of work and of Gujarat, puts it, “Education is not just
Anganwadi, which translates into return only after the harvest season knowing how to sign your name, it is the “courtyard shelter” in Hindi, is a making attendance at the Anganwadi also knowing what to eat”. Steps are government initiated child and mother irregular. To ensure everyone in the taken to tackle malnutrition from before care centre. Started in 1975 as part of v i l lage reaps benef i ts of the a child is born. Expecting mothers are t h e I C D S ( I n t e g r a t e d C h i l d Development Services) it was set up to battle child hunger and malnutrition.
The Anganwadi plays a pivotal role in the lives of the girls in the village from their own birth to their child’s birth, barring the few years they spend at school. It becomes their centre for knowledge and a support system during
by Ankita Biswas
·
·
·
Includes all girls in an Anganwadi between the ages of 11 and 18
Premixes given as nutritional supplements to combat malnutrion
Vocational training provided for future financial independence
SABLA YOJNASABLA YOJNA
Government Initiatives July, 2011
AnganwadiAnganwadiA Courtyard of Nurturing
educated on proper diet during pregnancy. It is the infants who are m o s t l i k e l y t o f a l l p r e y t o undernourishment. To prevent this, mothers are educated and reminded regularly of the importance of breastfeeding. It is also important that the mothers themselves are healthy and well nourished to be able to take care of their child. To achieve this, girls should since adolescence, be educated about a healthy and proper diet to meet their bodies' need. However, knowledge can only be made relevant if it is regarding actions which are feasible. No matter how much emphasis is placed on the importance of a healthy balanced diet, it will not be heeded upon if it is unattainable or out of reach. A woman who struggles to make two meals a day will hardly be able to afford milk, and sukdi. These are easy to make and school get their share during the midday vegetables or fruits for a balanced diet. act as supplements to the regular diet meal at school. The girls between 15 to Availability and cultural habits also making up for the nutritional needs of 18 and the 11 -14 year olds who do not b e c o m e i m p e d i m e n t s i n the beneficiaries. The premixes are go to school can collect their premix implementation. It would be futile to made to suit the local palate. At every packets f rom the Anganwadi . tell women to include milk in their Anganwadi meeting, Madhuben Adolescent girls, pregnant women and diets when there isn't any milk available prepares different things out of the recent mothers are also given iron folic in the village. In order to overcome premix to show the girls the different & tablets and iodised salt at the these obstacles, various schemes have taste appeasing uses that the premixes Anganwadi. been put in place to ensure proper can be put to. The Government is implementing nourishment. In an effort to improve Kishori newer schemes for a healthier future of
One such scheme is the Kishori Shakti Yojana, the state recently the villages. For an Anganwadi to Shakti Yojna, under which upto twenty launched the Sabla Yojna. This new function properly, however, and to adolescent girls per Anganwadi are scheme is more inclusive extending to ensure all benefits percolate at all levels given packets of premixes and fortified all girls between the ages of 11 and 18. of the society what is required is flour. These premixes include upma The 11 – 14 year old girls who go to dedicated Anganwadi workers. To let
these women know their hard work is noticed and appreciated, a best Anganwadi worker award is given annually as an incentive. This reward is of the same amount as that of the best collector, which is a whopping Rs50,000.
The efforts of the government and these Anganwadi workers mean more than just monetary rewards though. Sometimes it is a big thing like ensuring some people are not left behind when Gujarat marches forward to progress; while sometimes it are the little things like the smiles that are lit when the girls taste Madhuben's lip smacking Sukhdi on Tuesdays that really matter.
Fruits of Perseverance : An Anganwadi worker serving children
13
July, 2011 Government Initiatives
14
and constructed in order to become a to better health care for the cattle and it high-tech scientific animal husbandry would also lead to increased establishment in Gujarat. The project is productivity of milk and milk products.
ittle did he know that close to taken up as a pilot programme and is set Taking this point into consideration, a century after his famous up with an idea of planning and building the citizens of Akodara have co-retort, the people of a town L many such Animal Hostels all around operatively brought all 964 cattle
called Akodara in Himmatnagar, the state. belonging to around 215 families of the Gujarat would take his thought forward The people of the town of Akodara town under one house. This house to establish the first 'state of the art' came together in a show of solidarity contains more than 36 cattle sheds novel concept - 'Animal Hostel' to and social entrepreneurship when they under hygienic and scientifically better the condition of the primary decided that since a large portion of controlled environments for providing bread giver for thousands of households their income depended on the cattle the cattle with optimal health care in the state and the country- Cattle. they bred and raised, it'd make sense for which would then further lead to the
For the first time ever in the country, all cattle to be maintained and looked most favourable output or produce from in a unique initiative envisioned by after under one common roof. They the cattle. Chief Minister Narendra Modi, this believed that this initiative would lead The dietary requirements of the Animal Hostel was planned, designed
July, 2011
Rearing a new culture
“All the really good ideas I ever had came to me whileI was milking a cow”, quipped the famous American painter
thGrant Wood in the early part of the 20 century.
Animal Hostel
Government Initiatives
by Vasant Iyer
15
livestock are looked after by allowing them to graze on an open area of 50 hectares that has been laid out keeping in mind specifics such as the nutritional content of the fodder that the animals consume while their health and bodily developments are consistently monitored by veterinary officials at regular intervals.
A sophisticated animal hospital has cattle faeces. around Akodara.Milk production has also been set up for regularly
This has revolutionized the entire gone up and Vermicompost's benefits monitoring the health of the cattle.manner in which cattle are bred and are being reaped by lots of families. What is the most interesting to note raised and is poised to result in The biggest beneficiaries have been are the complimentary benefits that this achieving maximum output for the state the women of the households in these scheme has brought in for the and maximum gains for the cattle villages as their day long worry of womenfolk of the town. A trust set up owners. Undertaking a comprehensive having to feed, bathe and take care of by the women of the town named t o u r o f a l l t h e c a p a b i l i t i e s , their own cattle have ceased and they "Graamlakshmi" is independently infrastructure and chatting with can now concentrate on other sources of responsible for the production of scientists and officials in the area gives income. From spending an average of 6 Vermicompost fertilizer. The town's one an understanding of the nuances of hours per day previously on animal partial energy requirements are maintaining and running such a facility. care, the new animal hostel helps them envisioned to be fulfilled from "gobar Because of this animal hostel, there is finish off the work in less than 2 hours. gas" plant set up to obtain energy from an air of 'health and hygiene' in and Around 200 women are presently
engaged in these activities, saving around 3000 man days per month at `125 per person per day, the opportunity cost of which comes to around ̀ 3, 75,000 per month.
The exceptional concept was gifted to the people of the state and country by the townsfolk of Akodara to mark the commencement of Krushi Mahotsav.
The onus now lies on the people of Gujarat to hold the baton of progress in their hands and establish many more such co-operative establishments for the welfare of cattle and other sectors of Scientific Animal Husbandry.
July, 2011
Objectives
HygienicEnvironment
IntegratedAnimalCare
Productionof
Gobar Gas
Production ofOrganicManures
BetterManagement
of Dungand Urine
Improvementof Human
Health
Reduction ofDrudgery ofWomen Folk
CollectiveVillage
ResourceManagement
Taking stock : The CM pays a visit to the Akodara Animal Hostel
An ima l Hos t e l P ro j e c t
will be a revolutionary s t e p in
cooperative management of
cattle as well as conservation of
natural resources with its unique
model of integration, cooperation
and conservation.
Narendra ModiChief Minister, Gujarat
Government Initiatives
16
World-class maritime park planned in Bharuch-Dahej
A world-class maritime park will come up along the sea coast of Bharuch district of Gujarat. “The Maritime park in Bharuch will become instrumental in giving training of ship-building to the youth and provide them with employment,” Chief Minister Narendra Modi sa id on May 14 whi le Inaugurating a manufacturing plant of a Denmark-based company Roxul Rockwool at the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) of Dahej in Bharuch. A 1600 km long coastline is suited to ship building and ship repairing industry and the maritime park can give fillip to ship building in the state, he said.
TTK Prestige to set up its kitchenware plant near Vadodara
Bangalore-based TTK Group, a3,179crore market capital company, is
setting up its kitchenware plant in Gujarat on a 60 acre of land near Vadodara. The company is developing a
125 crore plant where it will produce pressure cookers, non-stick cookware and other kitchenware. TTK Prestige had signed an MoU with Gujarat government regarding the project in Vibrant Gujarat 2011. The plant in
Sulphate manufacturing unit is also up Mega Food Park (MFP) at Vadodara Vadodara will have capacity to produce coming up at Kandla. and aSPV (a consortium of companies five million pieces of anodised
from Food Processing, Logistics and cookware and two million pieces of L&T bags ` 1 , 450 crore Infrastructure business) will be formed stainless steel cookers and will be the
contractfrom GSPC to implement the project. Anil group fourth facility of the company in India Larsen and Toubro (L&T) has will invest over 200 crore in and first in western part of the country.
bagged 1,450 crore ($317.5 million) infrastructure facilities for food The other plants of TTK are at Hosur, contract from Gujarat State Petroleum processing. This Mega Food Park will Coimbatore and Roorkee. The plant Corporation (GSPC) for erecting an be towards creation of “Farm to Fork” will be operational by April 2012.'offshore process-cum-living quarters infrastructure wherein different aspects platform project' at the Krishna of food processing and agri-business IFFCO to manufacture fertiliser Godavari (KG) basin. The new facility supply chain will be integrated. with lower potash would add another 6 million standard Ind ian Fa rmers Fe r t i l i s e r s cubic metres of hydrocarbon gas per Gujarat chamber eyes Dubai Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) will day to GSPC's output. Southern Gujarat Chamber of soon manufacture a fertiliser with lower
Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) is potash content at its Kandla unit in Anil Group bags “Mega Food exploring new areas of economic G u j a r a t f o l l o w i n g u n s t a b l e
Park” project cooperation with the Dubai Chamber of international potash prices. By August Anil Group of Companies will set Commerce and Industry. An SGCCI this year a 50 MT capacity Zinc
`
`
``
&BUSINESS
NEWS
Business July, 2011
17
focusing on tier-II and tier-III towns of Gujarat for technology adoption. The company has a market share of 90 per cent in desktops and personal computers segments and is looking at catering to the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the state through trade fairs.
Japan shows interest in water biz After proposing to involve itself in a
Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR) and the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), Japan is keen in investing in water business. A high-level Japanese delegation met senior state officials in the chief minister's office (CMO) to explore the possibility of involving Japanese entrepreneurs in water-related projects in Gujarat
Sezal Glass sells float glass biz to Saint Gobain
Gujarat based firm Sezal Glass sold its float glass business along with its manufacturing unit to Saint-Gobain Glass India for 686 crore. With the sale proceeds, the company will be 100% debt-free, with reserves to fund growth and expansion.
Maruti plans plant in GujaratPassenger car manufacturer Maruti
Suzuki Limited intendsto setup its new plant in Gujarat on a 500-acre plot with a capacity to produce 10-lakh cars per
delegation had visited Dubai and the annum. This was revealed after Maruti two sides explored investment Freudenberg opens new plant Suzuki Ltd Chairman RC Bhargav and opportunities between Dubai and German Group Freudenberg, a Managing Director Shinzo Nakanishi Gujarat. supplier of non-wovens, filters, held talks with Chief Minister Narendra
lubricants and specialist in seals and Modi on May 31 and declared Gujarat Kohler sets up 60-crore plant vibration control technology, has set up as their first priority for the company's Kohler India, a kitchen and bath a new plant at Adas village, 30 km from expansion project as the state's long
d e s i g n - p r o d u c t s m a k e r , h a s Vadodara. The plant will manufacture coastline offered facilities for export. inaugurated its only tap-manufacturing mechanical cleaning products and is The location of the site and other plant in India at Jhagadia in Bharuch based on joint venture with Indian firm formalities for the phase-1 of the district of Gujarat, set up at a cost of Gala Brush Ltd, a leading manufacturer project will be completed in three 60 crore. The new plant will bring of all types of brushes, brooms, wipers, months while the plant is expected to be
Kohler's global expertise in design to squeegees and mops in the country. ready in five years. It is projected to Indian homes with world-class taps for create direct employment for 1.5 lakh kitchens and bathrooms. Kohler owns Intel to focus on Tier 2& 3 cities of people.more than 200 acres of land in Jhagadia. Gujarat The facility has been set up on 25 acres Intel, one of the world leaders in next to a ceramic-ware plant silicon innovation and developing established earlier on 90 acres. processor technologies, would be
`
`
`
BusinessJuly, 2011
( Source : iNDEXTb, June 2011 )
18
harmaceutical industry India produces about 22% of the manufacturing units concentrated in worldwide has seen a boom world's generic drugs and is also one of Gujarat, it is at the forefront of the Pin recent years. The focus has the top 5 API producers with a share of Indian Pharmaceutical growth story. It
slowly shifted to developing economies about 6.5%. The outsourcing industry is accounts for nearly 42% share of India's in Latin America and the Asia Pacific predicted to be USD 2.5 Billion in 2012 pharmaceutical turnover, 22% of its and India has been a beneficiary of this on account of low cost R&D. 70% of drug exports and 20% of its chemicals trend. The Global Pharmaceutical the local demand is met by the domestic output. It employs about 55,000 people. Industry is expected to touch a size of industry. India also has a higher number F r o m b e i n g a n e s t a b l i s h e d USD 975 billion in 2013 with a growth of FDA compliant manufacturing manufacturing base, Gujarat is now of 5-6%. Much of this growth can be facilities outside USA as against p o i s e d t o b e c o m e a G l o b a l attributed to the rise in opportunity in countries like China which makes it an Pharmaceutical Hub. This is because of the generics market with many of the attractive destination. the inherent competitive advantages products going off patent soon. that Gujarat enjoys. The cost
Gujarat's competitive research base, availability Pharmaceutical story is a 103 year old of large, skilled workforce, skills in
India is among the fastest history of excellence. With many of the process chemistry and presence of growing pharmaceutical markets in the Pharmaceutical clusters and SEZs give world. The market size is estimated at Gujarat an edge in the nationwide roughly USD 18 Billion (including Pharmaceutical scenario. Apart from exports) in 2008-09. It has been this Gujarat also has an established growing annually at the rate of 12% in chemical industry, well developed the last five years and is projected to medical equipment and IT industry, grow at a CAGR of 14% from 2010- Pharmaceutical machinery and 2013. Formulations constitute about Pharmaceutical packaging industries 70% of the market in terms of value, and a large number of academic and bulk drugs constituting the remaining research institutes to help enable 30%. Indian players dominate the growth in the future.domestic formulations segment with 7 Gujarat is known as the hub of the out of the top 10 players being Indian. Indian Pharmaceutical industry with
The Gujarat Story:Pharmaceutical Industry in
India:
July, 2011
in GujaratPharma Boom
Gujarat’s Pharma Exports(2008-09)
Bulk Drugs40% Formulations
60%
by Abhisar Gaur
Business
19
more than 5400 manufacturing either in contract manufacturing or licences. In terms of exports, direct sales (retail). Lately they have formulations constitute 60% of the also been concentrating on acquisitions production while bulk drugs constitute which provides a readymade clientele, the other 40%. In terms of locations, distribution network and a huge Ahmedabad and Vadodara lead the product basket, which ultimately generic drug production while provides better access to the target Ankleshwar and Vapi produce much of market.India's bulk drugs. Gujarat is the The inherent advantages that manufacturer of the maximum number Gujarat has such as the strategic of dosages in the country. The different location providing good connectivity to dosage forms that it manufactures and domestic as well as international exports include tablets, capsules, APIs, markets, well established trade and etc. It also houses several established transport networks, high industrialisation domestic and multinational players and and investments and a skilled labour is home to 40% of contract research force will undoubtedly provide the organizations in the country. required impetus to take the state at the
Gujarat is the only state to issue helm of the Indian pharmaceutical sales licence through IT application. It story. is the only manufacturer of the In addition to this there have been digestive enzyme Pink Papain in the various initiatives taken by the world. The menace of spurious drugs government that have enabled the has been limited in Gujarat and hence growth and laid the foundations for a has it has better acceptance among strong future. The state has allowed set medical fraternity. There has been a up of Special Economic Zones which
as the Vibrant Gujarat summit have 1056% increase in Pharmaceutical will boost the pharmaceutical been successful in highlighting the exports from Gujarat from USD 178 investments. For quick disposal of strengths of Gujarat as an investment Million in 2004-05 to USD 2054 various documents, the FDCA has des t ina t ion . Apar t f rom th is , Million in 2008-09. initiated the process of IT application nationwide initiatives on taxes and Gujarat's Pharmaceutical industry which will be implemented soon. The policies are also expected to help in the is increasingly gaining a foothold over establishment of National Institute for process of developing the industry.the entire value chain be it R&D or Pharmaceutical Education and
development. Now, with increased Research will be useful in human With Product emphasis being placed on R&D, resource development. Various tax
patents coming into effect in addition to Gujarat's pharmaceutical companies benefits have been provided to process patents from 2005, there has have slowly been moving into the encourage research and development. been a gradual change in the attitude of league of innovators. Traditionally Generic drugs have been promoted by the global pharmaceutical companies Gujarat's Pharmaceutical Companies giving them preference in government and their confidence levels in Indian have been strong in manufacturing, purchases. State-wide initiatives such policies and introducing newer drugs in India have been increasing. From January 2005 to March 2008, India has seen a total of 15 patented product launches. A greater participation of MNCs in the Indian market is expected to fuel the competitiveness and lead to better productivity as well as innovation. The future of Indian pharmaceutical industry looks bright on account of all these factors and Gujarat being one of the major contributors is set to benefit from the same.
Future Trends:
July, 2011
Pharma Boom : Gujarat’s Pharma growth is backed by strong R & D
5%
9%
48%
30%
9%
Wo
rld
Ph
arm
ac
eu
tic
al
Ma
rke
t (2
00
8)
Latin America
Africa, Asia(excludingJapan) and Australia
Japan
Europe
North America
Business
20
Cover Story July, 2011
21
by V.N. Balakrishna, Ankita Biswas & Vasant Iyer
SwarnimSamapan
s the first decade of the 21st making and welfare initiatives as we to perform on all fronts and bring the century ended, the state of surge forth into the next chapter of fruits of the state's development to its AGujarat, entered a phase prosperity in Gujarat. people, be it women and children or
that can only be described as awe- The celebrations announced by the drivers of Gujarat's agriculture: our inspiring. On the back of visionary government in Gujarat to mark the farmers; The Swarnim Gujarat year leadership, hard work and with the golden jubilee of the formation of the promised and delivered on every front. might of six crore Gujaratis at its heart, state came hand in hand with upliftment Whether it was the leap in the budget the state has become a shining beacon schemes launched to focus on inclusive spending while providing for an overall for development, pro-people policy- growth and development. The aim was surplus to the budget, or generating jobs
July, 2011 Cover Story
22
Five zonal functions, which began in all spheres, the Gujarati spirit has with 'Janshakti' programme at Dahod percolated through all and sundry, on April 15, highlighted the promising much more in the years to 'Panchshakti' (five strengths) of come. Moreover, with a renewed drive Gujarat and led to the grand finale of the achieved through increasing the towards educating the youth of the 1 s t o f M a y c o n c l u d i n g d a y efficacy of Gram Sabha as a forum for state, the efforts towards safeguarding celebrations. 'Rakshashakti' was the progress as well as grievance redressal, the future of the people and the state are theme of the programme held at Anand computerisation of state systems, underway in full vigour. on April 18 while it was 'Gyanshakti' at channelizing people's creative energy
Gujarat has forged its own steady Surat on April 21. Palanpur had its and helping women through self help path along the roads of success this past theme of 'Urjashakti' on April 23 while groups and Nari Adalats among various decade. To cap off the brilliant the fifth and the last was 'Jalshakti' held steps. Government initiatives like celebrations of 'Swarnim Gujarat' at Rajkot on April 25. Krishi Mahotsav, the month long pre marking the 50th anniversary of The idea behind holding these monsoon campaign encouraging Gujarat last year, this year saw the 'Panchskahti' programs was to identify scientific farming approaches, and transcendence of the state towards a and make available to the public, the Garib Kalyan Mela – an innovative 'golden era'. In order to celebrate the key driving forces of the state's initiative to distribute assistance to' achievements and initiatives of the economy and progress. This involved below poverty line' families. The Jan state, a month and a half long gala thidentifying key spheres that needed Shakti Exhibition was held on April 19 depicting these activities were empowering. One of the key driving at Dahod. The Jan Shakti Exhibition organized in and around various forces in this march to progress has displayed the various facets of tribal regions in the state. been the understanding of the culture showcasing stellar works by For one full fortnight beginning importance of holistic progress. These tribal artisans. The CM expressed his April 15, Gujarat allowed the world to five empowered spheres or the Panch wish to empower the children of tribal be witness to a super series of Shakti would then lead Gujarat to future regions at the exhibition and said that programmes to mark the year-long prosperity and glory. The zonal his government has started schools in Gujarat Swarnim Jayanti celebrations celebrations of the Panch Shakti acted tribal areas to impart the knowledge of that ended with the Gaurav Diwas on as a countdown to the Swarnim science in the children residing there so May 1 in Ahmedabad. The theme of the Samapan grand celebrations in that a tribal child can also become an Gaurav Diwas was aptly named 'Aage Ahmedabad. Each of the Panch Shaktis engineer, doctor or a scientist. Kadam Guja ra t ' , ye t ano the r were celebrated on a different day and Emphasis was laid on the necessity of spectacular event that depicted the in a different city counting up to the an all round growth among the youth glory of Gujarat with glittering sound main event, with the CM inaugurating and pointed out initiatives in this and light show. The closing ceremony these Panch Shakti exhibitions. direction, like the 'Vanche Gujarat' was a mind boggling performance by The first of the five, Jan Shakti is programme to inculcate reading habits over 4,500 amateur artists, many of about empowering the people and into the young generation and the them children from below the poverty involving them in the process of 'Swarnim Khel Mahakumbh' to ensure line, making it a blend of people's growth. This aim is intended to be that the healthy minds of the youth of celebration with professional guidance.
Panch Shakti Zonal Celebrations
Empowering minds : CM Narendra Modi addresses the audience at the Gyan Shakti Exhibition at Surat
Cover Story July, 2011
23
Gyan Shakti or the power of knowledge celebrates its objective of emphasizing and using the power of knowledge. The intended means of achieving this objective include emphasis on educational infrastructure, t r a i n i n g o f t e a c h e r s a n d c o m p u t e r i z a t i o n o f s c h o o l s , introduction of new courses to stay in step with the changing times, emphasis on total enrolment and maximum retention of children in the schools, emphasis on girl child education, campaigns in the villages with the mission of universal education and creating special funds for girl child education and insurance schemes for the students among others. Thousands of youth from six districts of south Gujarat gathered at Surat for the Swarnim Gujarat Gyan-Shakti Gujarat were complimented by healthy Also the 108 Emergency service has Mahotsav, where an announcement to bodies. Tribal Welfare Minister been set up. During the Raksha Shakti
th setup a world-class incubation center in Jaswantsinh Bhabhor pointed out the exhibition on April 19 at Anand, the the state to facilitate young talents state government's steps for the welfare Swarnim Raksha Shakti Mahotsav was involved in the research activities was of tribal people wherein more than a call to show Gujarat's strength and made. Talking about the significance of ` 17,000-crore has been spent in efficiency to the world. A grand show of skilled manpower the Chief Minister transforming the face of tribal regions strength was made through a march-pointed out the meaninglessness of in the state. past, mass P.T, motorcycle stunts and infrastructural development if human It was time now to unveil the might karate exhibition.resources remain weak and that youth of Raksha Shakti. The core function of The CM also flagged off the will be encouraged to innovate Raksha Shakti is ensuring security, be it Swarnim Gujarat Asmita Yatra. The solutions that are useful to the society physical, social or economic in nature. Police Force's proactive behaviour in and to the future generations. Its immediate objectives involve ensuring peace and harmony was
The 'Skill Voucher Scheme' by the developing the mitigating capacity for brought to notice and it was called Labour and Employment Department natural and manmade disasters, making every citizen's duty to acknowledge the was also launched and token Gujarat Polio and Leprosy free, gallantry and devotion of our police appointment letters were given to the reducing the incidence of HIV / AIDS, force. While talking about the youth selected in recruitment camps. reducing infant and mother mortality achievements of Gujarat where the Education Minister Ramanlal Vora through innovative schemes and focus has been on human resource announced that the Girl Child creating a Seismological Research development, stress was laid on the Education drive initiated by the state Institute. As Raksha Shakti entails more Raksha Shakti University set up with government eight years back has than just physical security, Gujarat the intention of preparing a well trained increased the female literacy rate in the government has launched the security force. Gujarat's successful state in a drastic way. Constructing ‘Balbhog’ scheme with a firm resolve to dealings with cyber and technological toilets for girls in primary schools has eradicate malnutrition. The Chiranjeevi c r i m e s h a v e r e s u l t e d i n t h e been given as much importance as the scheme on the other hand has saved establishment of a Forensic Science construction of Sardar Sarovar Dam. thousands of mothers and infants and University. The state government has constructed tried to bring down the maternal sanitation units in primary schools to mortality rate and infant mortality rate ensure that girls do not leave education in the state. Further Gujarat has midway due to such problems. Gujarat provided advanced and sophisticated has geared up to become a knowledge tools for disaster management to local hub in the country.government institutions with trained
Ur ja Shak t i r e i t e ra t e s the force and advance equipment to match importance of making energy the power those available with developed nations.
Raksha Rally : Gujarat’s defence and emergency service vehicles paraded at the Panch Shakti meet at Anand
Gujarat garnered as many as 6 Guinness Book R e c o r d s d u r i n g i t s Swarnim Year.
Cover StoryJuly, 2011
24
Techniques, linking the villages with a State Wide Water Grid, interlinking of 21 rivers of the states, creating of 2.25
of the state. Increase in the plant load lakh new water bodies by constructing factor, decrease in T&D (transmission check-dams and farm ponds and and distribution) losses, venturing into reaping benefits of water and large scale exploration of Oil and Gas, electricity from the near complete 29, by the Governor in the presence of turning the loss making State Sardar Sarovar Project. The Jal Shakti the CM. Electricity Board into a profit making event was held at Rajkot on April 25. The exhibition is a positive professionally managed company, The CM announced here that the initiative on the part of the government taking electricity to the common man in N a r m a d a w a t e r d i s t r i b u t i o n allowing the citizens of Gujarat to gain all villages. Creating the biggest CNG management be handed over to water awareness about the happenings in the and LNG infrastructure in the country users' committees, adding that the state state. The exhibition displayed all the are some of the steps being considered had indeed found a permanent solution awards Gujarat has won in various to turn Gujarat into an energy efficient to its perennial water shortage problem, spheres of development; along with state. The Urja Shakti Exhibition, the thanks to a decade-old people's hosting stalls of the various government fourth in the series of Panch Shakti movement for water conservation departments. These departments were celebrations was held on April 23, at converting 'Jal Shakti' into 'Jeevan equipped with literature as well as Palanpur. It witnessed the CM Shakti'. The Jal Shakti celebrations guides to assist with any queries or announcing his determination to make were appropriately in tune with the simply give a walk through the working the state a world power hub in State Government taking water of that department. A very interesting generating energy with major part of the resources right upto people's doorsteps observation was that for the Sardar production from non conventional through an UNO award winning Sarovar Narmada Nigam Ltd. stall there energy sources including solar power, WASMO's participatory distribution were in fact, school children explaining bio-gas, wind power and natural gas system down to the village level. different kinds of dams and their based power. He congratulated the
workings. farmers of north Gujarat for their
There was also a miniature model of intelligent management of water in the Along with Zonal Exhibitions, the Sardar Sarovar dam explaining its irrigation of the arid regions of Gujarat also witnessed a Mega working. Other departments like GIDC, Banaskatha, Sabarkatha, Patan and Exhibition. As the Swarnim year neared GIDB and the Department of Science Mehsana for occupying top position in its conclusion, the Swarnim Gujarat and Technology were also present saving energy by the maximum use of Mega Exhibition was organised at drip irrigation and scientific methods of Mahatma Mandir to showcase Gujarat's cultivation. achievements and progress as it stood
Finally there is Jal Shakti which poised at the brink of a more glorious focuses on harnessing of rain water and future. The exhibition, spread over 2.5 scientific management of water. It aims lakh sq. ft., was inaugurated on April at introducing Micro-Irrigation
The Swarnim Mega Exhibition
July, 2011Cover Story
25
whole hearted response to the gala event from the Gujarati Diaspora all over the world exceeded the expectations of many.
Speaking about the process of registration that all visiting guests believed to be of top notch planning and meticulous organization, a member of the organizing committee said that such meticulous planning was well appreciated by the guests. “We had opened up registration counters at the railways stations, airports and also at NRG Centers set up in various districts for the convenience of the visiting Gujaratis. They were offered all kind of help at these desks.”
The celebrations that started last year as part of the Swarnim Gujarat celebrations rubbed off on people even
among others. Not forgetting to point of the most flourishing States of the beyond the state borders. A Gujarati out the environment consciousness of nation, the atmosphere automatically businessman settled in Mumbai was the government, there was a planet carries an air of electricity. The recently caught in a mood of positive excitement earth stall set up by Gujarat Science NRG 'Samelan' held at the sprawling as he said that “We are planning to start City. The health department stall new Mahatma Mandir at Gandhinagar 'Swarnim Gujarat Clubs' within smaller enumerated various health initiatives as was one such mega event. communities of Gujarati people settled well as basic health – hygiene Attended by Gujarati citizens, in Mumbai. This is to benefit Gujaratis instructions. It also showcased VVIPs and power honchos of the state who have been outside their mother Gujarat's commendable state of the art residing around the globe, the event land for a long time but still want to 108 emergency services. The tribal was one of the largest conglomerate of contribute and participate in the development stall showcased tribal NRGs anywhere in the country. celebrations of this great state's glory.” craftsmanship available for purchase to Delegations had been sent out earlier in The Mahatma Mandir was built in a the people visiting. There was also the the year to all parts of the country and record time of 182 days generating a S w a r n i m B o o k Wo r l d w h i c h abroad inviting the Gujarati population sense of belief amongst Indians that showcased various books on Gujarat, as settled in these parts to be part of the infrastructure and progress wasn't a well some of the works by Narendra celebrations. The enthusiasm and the liability but a responsibility and that Modi like Convenient Action and Samajik Samarastra. Outside the exhibition were stalls set up by the cottage industry department from where people could pick up samples of Gujarat craftsmanship as souvenirs. It was an eight day long exhibition providing the people of Gujarat an opportunity to get themselves better acquainted with their State and Government.
No celebration is complete without all the members of the family being together under one roof at the same time
When more than 3000 Non Resident Gujaratis from various walks of life and from various parts of the country descend upon the capital of one
NRG MEET
July, 2011
Scoring High : A mother and child attempting a quiz on Gujarat at the Swarnim Mega Exhibition
Cover Story
People Power : Gujarat marches on towards a Swarnim era
26
Gujarat shall take the lead in proving the stereotype wrong that only foreign countries could plan and execute projects in record time.
The huge ocean of NRGs in the audience provided for cherubic optimism as an NRG from the The enthusiasm around the venue UK remarked “We have a huge was palpable among many NRGs to populace of Gujarati and Gujarati meet the visionary man who seemed to speaking people in London. They have have brought so many different been excited about the celebrations of successful NRGs under one roof in 50 years of Gujarat. A lot many people spite of many of them being separated have taken a week off from work to by land and ocean. come to Gujarat and be part of the Some important bills that were Swarnim celebrations in person. Some passed in the recent months were also of the people that couldn't make it were discussed such as the bill of Gujarat's extremely disappointed at not being own laws and regulations under the able to make it to the function but have judicial system instead of the usage of pledged to be a part of such events in the the Mumbai laws and regulations. The future.” launch of a new concept called Gujarat
Addressing the gathering at the jam- Quiz was announced that allows for packed hall, Chief Minister Narendra participation from any child in the Modi appealed to the NRIs and NRGs world in the quiz containing more than to request five non-Indian families to 5000 questions relating to Gujarat's visit Gujarat every year. "Even if heritage, history and culture. The event 10,000 people successfully market was concluded with brochures, Gujarat in other countries, it would pamphlets and dossiers of the various mean that 50,000 families visit the state projects and initiatives of the state every year. This will give a big boost to government for the NRGs to take back tourism in the state," he said. and spread the word of Gujarat's
July, 2011
Aage Kadam Gujarat : Performers dazzle the audience at the Swarnim Samapan Ceremony
Cover Story
27
unitedly done in one year, what would ordinarily have taken 10 years to accomplish. This was an incredible achievement accomplished in the Swarnim Jayanti year. I lay the credit at the feet of my people. This Shakti has emboldened me and renewed my confidence. This Swarnim Jayanti year has become the shilanyas (foundation stone) for the Swarnim Yug. It is the not the end of a golden year but the beginning of a Swarnim Yug”, the CM remarked while addressing the Samapan or closing ceremony.
A 3-volume book was released by Chief Minister Narendra Modi which is a compilation of the budget speeches of successive Governors of Gujarat after 1960, chronicling the best of developments during the last five decades. Also Governor Shrimati Kamlaji released a book '50 Golden Moments of Swarnim Gujarat Celebrations' during the Samapan ceremony. And with that the golden exponentially rising success. “In Swarnim Jayanti year the power year paved way for a golden era.of Janshakti was realized as not 6 crore
The people of Gujarat have always people, but 60 million dreams inspired been the driving force behind this All this build up then culminated the government to cross various amazing tale of all-round development. into the massive celebrations on May 1, developmental milestones. Every Under the visionary leadership of the 2011 at the Sardar Patel Stadium in member of the administration, CM and an able workforce, the Navrangpura, Ahmedabad. The irrespective of their ranking had transcendence of Gujarat from a Swarnim Jayanti Samapan celebrations glorious past to a glittering future has enthralled thousands of spectators who begun.had flocked to the Sardar Patel Stadium
in Ahmedabad. The event saw 4,500 artistes at a single venue winning itself an entry to the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's biggest dance and music programme. A majority of the performers were children below the poverty line. They were rewarded with the government opening bank accounts to safeguard the monetary incentive they earned for their outstanding performance at the event. One of the compositions for the event’s theme 'Aage Kadam Gujarat' was lent score by Oscar winning musician A. R. Rahman.
Chief Minister Narendra Modi described the Golden Jubilee year as the foundation stone for the ensuing Golden Age. He expressed his resolve to take the state to greater heights through democratic means with the full cooperation of the people's strength.
May 1 Celebrations
July, 2011
On Display : Buddhist Heritage of Gujarat
Cover Story
Born in Bamna, a small village of north Gujarat in 1911,
Umashankar Joshi received inspiration for creative
writing from the beautiful surroundings of the hilly
region as well as the social life of villages and fairs and
festivals held there. He joined the freedom struggle led
by Mahatma Gandhi and gained an understanding of
history. As a creative writer he responded to the
challenges of the 20th century ranging from social
inequality to the existential anguish of the nuclear age.
Concern with the roots of violence manifesting itself in
various forms and man at the centre of it has been the
main theme of his work.
Umashankar Joshi
On a Lighter Note
28
July, 2011
by Nirmish Thaker
29
feet, it also provides for a perfect only in the Gir forests of Gujarat and description of each species of fauna in nowhere else in Asia. The book not only crisply written summaries right by the provides for a concentrated experience images. of optical trance but also serves as an
The photographs in the pictures are exceptional educational tool for young obviously the fruit borne out of adults and teenagers to learn and equip excruciating patience and artistry that themselves with the knowledge of confounds the human eye. The book nature that envelopes them all around.presents a variety of specimen and Asked about his memorable covers all forms of fauna wrapped moments and the challenges faced, gloriously in awe-inspiring scenery. Diinesh states that, “My trips to the This also includes marine life covering wilds of Gujarat were truly a rare and diverse species of animals such as joyous experiences which brought to marine anemones and sea horses to life some of my dreams. The initiatives terrestrials such as towering antelopes, taken by the Forest Department, the the Asiatic Lion and wily wolves. The GEER Foundation and the State close up shot of the blood red or Government at large in protecting and fluorescent orange eyes makes for the conserving its natural heritage is Rock Eagle Owl presenting a menacing commendable. The abundant wildlife
eeping in sync with the vision and truly fascinating vista to the reader. that thrives in the State is a healthy and the theme of 'Vibrant The quality of the pictures is almost indicator of the efforts being KGujarat', “Vibrant Wildlife” is indomitable in the Indian wildlife undertaken. The health of the
a magnificent journey of a group of photography circle. The book is by far ecosystem is also a reflection of the photographers led by renowned wild one of the best books on wildlife in people and their attitude towards life photographer Diinesh Kumble Gujarat. wildlife, which acts as a natural through the lands, marshes, swamps One of the most strikingly protection mechanism.”and the water bodies of Gujarat. captivating pictures in the book is that The book is an endeavor by the
The book presents an intelligent of the king of the jungle - the Asiatic Commissionerate of Information, synopsis of each photograph and apart Lion relaxing by night fall. The Government of Gujarat to showcase from capturing breathtaking imagery of profound red eyes caught in the fading Gujarat’s thriving wildlife and eco-scenic beauty and the brilliance of light and the majestic mane add to the habitats. A magnificent journey mother nature that stops short of mystique that is very becoming of this recorded with expert artistry and skills- literally sweeping the reader off his/her royal and endangered animal found a truly enchanting experience.
A magnificent pictorial story on the wildlife of Gujarat
July, 2011 Book Review
by Vasant Iyer
30
be in effect till 2014, with the prime objectives of combating challenges of The vision of the Chief Minister, climate change and global warming, Narendra Modi has certainly paid off. ujarat has always been in the and also keeping in view the The state has emerged as the top forefront of setting new importance of encouraging and destination for solar and wind power benchmarks in development. Gpromoting eco-friendly clean and green generation and is among the top in The s ta te has sus ta ined th i s energy in the state. Gujarat, endowed terms of its potential for solar power development from market vagaries by with 300 days of clear sun, has solar generation. Gujarat figures among the p r o a c t i v e a n d v a l u e a d d e d energy high on its priority list. The state top two states in terms of energy interventions. The Gujarat State has 14.4 million acres of wasteland in sources in all categories, especially Government was the first to launch a high solar radiation level areas. non-conventional, as per the National comprehensive solar policy in 2009 to
Statistical Organizations' Energy
Solar energy hub
GUJARATIndia’s Solar Energy Capital
FACILITATING CLEAN SOLAR ENERGYTHROUGH TRANSPARENT POLICY
by Nilesh Shukla & Varun Santosh
Environment July, 2011
31
Statistics 2011. Gujarat has certainly become the Indian hub for solar energy. By all markers, the state is the clear leader in solar power. Gujarat is on its way to rolling out one-third, probably more, of what the country is slotted to achieve for all of India in the next three years itself.
Gujarat has incentivized developers by announcing solar tariffs for 25 years. The Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC) has fixed tariffs for the two kinds of solar technologies. For solar-thermal producers, GERC has fixed the tariff at ` 12 per unit for the first 12 years and ̀ 3 per unit from year 13 to year 25. The policy also ensures the state government pays for the correct metered power by placing select monitoring devices; these checks and
within an area of 150 square kilometers the State Government has laid down balances ensures the state is protected and was inaugurated during the Vibrant new guidelines for acquisition of land from unscrupulous parties. Gujarat Summit-2011. The projected for solar-based projects . The Gujarat has placed new conditions 3 , 0 0 0 - p l u s M W s o l a r p o w e r requirement of land has been allotted on companies that generate and installations would produce over 5,200 based on different technologies like distribute power, which will nudge million units of energy. They will Solar PV (crystalline) – 2.5 ha/MW, them towards solar energy. So, power-naturally help in reducing carbon- solar PV (Thin film) – 3.5 ha/MW, distribution companies have been dioxide emission to the extent of 5.2 Solar Thermal – 2.5 ha/MW upto 23% asked to source 6% of their energy million tonnes per year. This project is of Plant Load Factor (PLF) and requirements for 2011-12 from also expected to generate employment additional land of 0.1 ha/MW for renewable sources of energy. This will opportunities for over 20,000 people. thermal storage projects, for every 1% increase to 7% in 2012-13. Of this, solar
Also inaugurated last month was increase in the PLF. The allotment of will have to account for 0.5% and 1%, phase-I of India's largest solar power Government waste land to a maximum respectively. The state Government has plant at Khadoda in Sabarkantha of 20% of the total land requirement of reiterated its commitment towards district, where the 10-MW facility has the plant would be allowed if the said development of the renewable energy been set up by Azure Power India Pvt land is surrounded by private land. The sector and Climate Change, by allotting Ltd. The photo-voltaic solar power new norms will be applicable to those 1000 MW of Solar Power capacity to 34 plant is spread over 60 acres at solar generating plants which have not national and international project Khadoda. It is the first megawatt-scale acquired or have not been allotted land developers. solar power project under the Gujarat until May 19th, 2011. State Solar Power Policy using non- These progressive policies of recourse financing. The plant will meet Gujarat will definitely bring in more The Gujarat Government has also the power requirements of nearly one investment in solar technologies and undertaken a $10 billion solar park at lakh people in 150 villages. With its provide the much-needed fillip to Patan district in North Gujarat and it target of installing 1,000 MW of solar renewable energy production in India. will hold the distinction of being Asia's power capacity by 2012 and 3,000 MW In fact, this sets an example and largest solar power facility in India. by 2016, the State has already signed scalable model for other states in the The 3,000 MW project will get aid with MoUs for more than 900 MW. country.logistics and financial support from the
Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI) of the William J Clinton Foundation. The project has been allotted 10,000 ha of
Added to all the above measures, land spread across three locations
Progressive policies to promote solar energy
Asia's largest solar park
New guidelines for requirement of land for Solar Generating Plants
Going Solar : Asia's largest Solar Power Plant finds home in Gujarat
EnvironmentJuly, 2011
32
In Focus
called Taluka Sarkar, which will Having a separate development plan for provide around 1400 services under 28 each Taluka would also inculcate a state government departments, on a spirit of healthy competition among the
he recently concluded Garib Tehsil (or Taluka) level. different Taluks. Kalyan Mela (May 2011) In a speech delivered at Dabhoi, the Red – tape and harassment by scheme brought about, what one honorable CM of Gujarat Narendra middle men in issues like renewal of T
could call, an epiphany in the way Modi remarked that decentralization of licenses have always been major governance could be improved and governance would give more power to hindrances to people, especially decentralized to grass root levels, at the the people and help them establish and belonging to smaller town and villages. same time. The Garib Kalyan Mela run their businesses in a more efficient For example, if a farmer would want to scheme enabled people living below manner, which in turn would help the obtain a land registration certificate, he the poverty line to receive government Taluka prosper. Treating each Taluka as would need to do so by applying at his aid directly without involving any a separate unit with its own blueprint respective district headquarters, which middle men, thereby, eliminating red – for development would take into may or may not be close to his place of tape. The process was executed on a account the unique characteristics and residence. For doing so, he would have Taluka (Tehsil) level due to which there features of that region. Thus, the Taluka to travel all the way to his district was hardly any delay in receiving the development plan would consider the headquarters or utilize the service of aid. Due to an efficient and flawless unique strengths and weaknesses of 'middle – men' who would charge some display of execution during the Garib that particular Taluka, rather than just amount to handle all the paper work. Kalyan Mela, the government of implementing a plan developed for an dependance on middle men could risk Gujarat has launched an ambitious, yet entire district which may or not be corruption, harassment and on the promising new way of governance beneficial to a particular Taluka. whole, delay in the farmer's business.
MAXIMUM GOVERNANCE
THE TALUKA SARKAR
July, 2011
by Sahit Chirutapudi
33
But by enabling the Taluka Janseva Kendra with the same authority to issue such licenses, an enormous amount of time and money is saved due to the reduction of effort – time cost, and at the same time, the risk of corruption and other such hindrances is also minimized.
This form of governance is seen to be especially beneficial for people from uneducated or low – income backgrounds, as they can now deal with people belonging to their own Taluka in the Janseva Kendra. Similarly, the Janseva Kendra of a particular Taluka would be more sensitive to the needs and requirements of the people registration, the Taluka Sarkar is also remaining 5.25 crore GUIC s are belonging to the same. Empowering the responsible for executing state wide expected to be created within the next Taluka level administration would also welfare schemes like Garib Kalyan six months. CM Narendra Modi also create more employment opportunities Mela or Kanya Kelavni (Girl child sanctioned ` 10 lakh for every village within the Taluka as a plethora of skills education) on a Taluka level, based on with a population above 1,000 to would be required to plan and execute a the needs and requirements of the improve infrastructure in support of success model for the region like people in that region. An E – this novel way of governance. engineering skills, medical skills, governance model is currently being Announcing his vision, 'Aapno administrative skills, etc. Thus, the created to support the Janseva Kendra Taluka, Vibrant Taluka (ATVT)', people would be more responsible services. It involves issuing Gujarat Narendra Modi described to his towards the progress of their Taluka. Unique Identification Cards (GUIC) to audience in Dabhoi a future where
For this Taluka Sarkar project, 112 farmers and their families. These cards every Taluka contributes positively to deputy collectors’s posts have been are biometric and will contain the state. He stated that before the sanctioned, where currently, each iden t i f i ca t ion ind ica to r s l i ke ATVT project, the state of Gujarat was deputy collector (also known as Prant fingerprinting. To eliminate any risk of striding forward on the progress collector) has been given the unauthorized duplication, a database of brought about by its 26 districts. He responsibility of 2 or 3 Talukas. Apart all the people receiving the GUICs will now wanted to see Gujarat striding from offering services like issue of be maintained at the Janseva Kendra. leaps and bounds on the work of 225 solvency certificate, hotel licence Already, GUICs have been created for Talukas, or the '225 Pillars of Gujarat'. r enewa l , coope ra t i ve soc i e ty almost 1.05 crore citizens. The He also advised the Taluka workers in registration and veterinary vaccination the audience saying that the success of
this system would require them to be proactive, innovative and in – tune with the needs of the region. Fostering a healthy competition between various Taluka administrations would, in the long term, benefit the economy and livelihood of people in the region.
The responsibility of the ATVT governance is to empower the people of Gujarat and help them shape the course of their lives and businesses, with minimum interference of bureaucracy and its procedures. After all, a democracy should enable the common man to enjoy and respect the freedom of leading his life in a way that is beneficial to him and his society.
Highlights of ATVT Programme:
~ ~
~~
~ ~
Efficient decentralization Utilization of E- Governance of governance and services m o d e l a n d G u j a r a t to Taluka level Unique Identification
Cards ( GUIC )Reduction of red - tape, corruption and cost of Customized development license issuance plans for every taluka
Decentralisation of state Promoting a spirit of wide welfare schemes healthy competit ion ( Eg: Garib Kalyan Mela) among talukas
In FocusJuly, 2011
Inclusive governance : CM Modi inaugurating the ATVT model
34
n the afterglow of the Golden now be called as tertiary education. far reaching changes that have come to Jubi lee ce lebra t ions , i t i s Though it includes universities, it is not define Gujarat in recent years spanning Iimperative to take stock of our limited to universities which have a key various sectors ranging from industry
higher education scenario. The current role in all tertiary systems — the to health, ports to power, agriculture to paradigm of tertiary education across colleges, technical training institutes, rural and urban development. A state the world is one of unprecedented community colleges, nursing schools, committed to transform the quality of opportunities, albeit coupled with research laboratories, centers of life of its citizens has realized tertiary disorder and continuous change. The excellence, distance learning centers, education to be a blue print for advantages and chal lenges of and many more— all forming a development and transformation across globalization and the Information and network of institutions that support the various sectors of the State's economy. Communication Technology (ICT) higher-order capacity necessary for Access, Achievement and Equity revolution too exist alongside development. defines the current concept of state disparities and skewed distributions in In the realm of tertiary education, education including tertiary education. the world we live in. two factors dominate. One, political Today, a new system of education is
All post-secondary education can leadership of the State and second, the needed, given the modern human
July, 2011
by Jayanti RaviCommissioner of Higher Education
CEO, Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat ..the Gujarat wayEducation for TomorrowEducation for Tomorrow
In Focus
35
personality in existential turmoil and a facilitate holistic development, greater quest all over the world for presence, a new consciousness & synthesis of knowledge and culture. fraternity to help prepare students to A n c i e n t k n o w l e d g e i s b e i n g face the challenges of a globally rediscovered that supplements modern competitive yet collaborative world.knowledge. In making a beginning, the In another strategic move towards Government of Gujarat has set up the uplifting the quality of education and Gujarat Commission for Educational ease management, colleges across the Innovations. Drawing from the state have been divided into 33 higher education innovations of five great education districts. Each district is luminaries of India viz., Mahatma being mentored as well as monitored by Gandhi, Swami Vivekananda, Gurudev two Coordinators, hence forth called Rab ind rana th Tago re , Swami District Coordinators. The District equity and access, systemic climate or Dayanand Sa ra swa t i and S r i Coordinators act as a link between the educational ecosystem and evaluation Aurobindo, the Commission seeks to office of the Higher Education and research outputdemonstrate, inspire, nurture and Commissioner and the colleges. In A special approach has been encourage such innovations that lead to addition, two professors from the designed in establishing Knowledge integral education. University to which the colleges are Consortium of Gujarat (KCG) which
The State has set up specialized affiliated are appointed as “Prabhari provides a unique platform for universities which include the professors”. Colleges in each district academicians and stakeholders from all Forensic Sciences University, Raksha have been further subdivided into Universities and other Institutions to Shakti (Defense Studies) University, Clusters. Usually there are five clusters share and disseminate knowledge. It Gujarat Technological University, in a single district. Ideally, each cluster also provides a forum for creation of a Shree Somnath Sanskrit University, comprises of 5 colleges and is headed national and international knowledge Children's University, Indian Institute by a Cluster Coordinator. The network of all universities, colleges, of Teachers Education and Gujarat Commissioner of Higher Education as research institutions and libraries of the National Law University, to name a well as Coordinators of various state. few. It has also enacted a legislation for initiatives regularly interact with This facilitates academic and the setting up of various private District coordinators by Video administrative reforms in higher universities which has now resulted in Conferencing as well as by live telecast education in consonance with changes the presence of about 40 universities through a channel of BISAG. in various domains of knowledge. and national level institutions of higher The training programme first KCG also provides a forum for creation learning in the State. begins with the training of the trainers of a national and international
The policy interventions broadly themselves. Four training programmes- knowledge network of all universities, relate to the following aspects of Higher each lasting 2 days are arranged in the colleges, research institutions and Education: curriculum related; ICT in month of September October. Recently, libraries of the state. Most importantly, e d u c a t i o n , f a c u l t y q u a l i t y , as many as 56 District coordinators, 35 the KCG can evolve models of employability and relevance to society, 'Prabhari' professors and 92 students integrated education that would
par t ic ipated in these t ra ining programmes. The involvement of students in the programme has made for a resounding success from the perspective of awareness as well as zeal of participation in various initiatives.
Gujarat is in the process of major transformation in higher education and the state welcomes partnerships to help itself forge ahead in areas of Research, Extension, Training and Education,in the process of fulfilling the objectives of higher learning.
July, 2011
“Good education is the
foundation for a bright future
of a nation. The quality of
education today decides the
tomorrow of Gujarat”
Narendra ModiChief Minister, Gujarat
In Focus
Unique Concept :Provides specialised training to cater to Oil & Gas industry worldwide
36
July, 2011
few major decisions like earmarking • Sustainable employment for 5 lakh development funds in proportion to tribal families; their population, creating highly • Emphasis on quality education and empowered development machinery higher education; and launching few individual-oriented • Accelerated economic development he Vanbandhu Kalyan schemes, were made. In the mid- of tribal areas; Yojana (VKY) has been a nineties, a unique decentralised model • Health and housing and safe b ig leap forward for Tfor addressing the area's infrastructure drinking water to all; Gujarat's 75 lakh tribals, located mainly needs, called the New Gujarat Pattern, • Irrigation; in 43 talukas of eastern and southern was launched in the State under which • All weather roads; Gujarat. The scheme aims to empower ` 3125 crore were spent to create • Availability of electricity and the tribal population in the state of 86,000 infrastructure facilities. • Urban development.Gujarat with focus on livelihood
A major policy shift for the development, provision of quality development of ST population was Some key features under the VKY education and development of announced by the Hon. Chief Minister were to intentionally steer away from infrastructure in these areas. Narendra Modi in February 2007 when old-fashioned implementation of Comprising 14.8% of Gujarat's he focused a 10-point intervention with schemes, where only expenditure and population, Scheduled Tribe (ST) an unprecedented budgetary provision number of beneficiar ies were families were generally left out of the of ` 15,000 crores to be spent over the monitored. In contrast, the VKY aimed mainstream umbrella of development next five years. The Vanbandhu Kalyan to achieve defined outcomes with schemes since Independence and Yojana, thus unveiled, had some of the major emphasis on improving the serious efforts were made to improve following thrust areas: quality of inputs in tribal areas and their livelihood only in the '70s when a
Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojna
Principal Secretary,
Tribal Development Department
- A big leap forward in tribal welfare
by AM Tiwari
In Focus
37
promoting the rights-based approach. started, besides three new engineering spent on upgradation of road The State Government assurance of c o l l e g e s a n d s i x a g r i c u l t u r e infrastructure and 6% of water from
` 15,000 crore in five years saw an institutions. Prior to the launch of the major dams earmarked for tribal areas. actual allocation of over ̀ 17,700 crore, VKY, half of the tribal dominated Today, tribal areas of Gujarat have i n d i c a t i n g t h e s t a t e ' s s t r o n g talukas were in need of science stream 52.55 km of road for every 100 sq. Km commitment to tribal welfare, and also schools and there were no engineering, against State's average road density of
37.81 km, and out of 4,252 hamlets having a population of less than 250 persons, road connectivity has already been provided to 3,739 hamlets.
Until March 2007, only about 48,670 households covering 3.9% of tribal families had access to tap water connections. After the implementation of the VKY, this has increased by over nine times to about 31.70%. The total area covered under irrigation in the State is 40%, while in tribal areas irrigated area was 37% before the VKY. After concerted focus on irrigation by the VKY, the total irrigated area has already surpassed the State average and is 45.5%. Once the ongoing works to ensure long term sustenance of the nursing or agricultural institutions in under the VKY are completed the total scheme. the area as well. irrigated area will be 9.15 lakh hectares, VKY became a trend-setter in the covering 54.63% of tribal areas.country for improving transparency of
Institutional deliveries have dec i s ion–making process and During the first four years, over increased from 67.62% to 86.8% accountability of implementers. The 2,63,000 persons received old-age and during the same period. A ` 680 crore Beneficiary selection process is also widow pensions (17.5% of families); Integrated Dairy Development Project highly transparent and a large number 2,75,000 pregnant mothers were has ensured additional monthly income of projects are approaching 99.7% provided full financial support for of ` 3000-3600 per animal, Diversified accuracy (3-Sigma levels) in institutional delivery; 2,20,000 school-Agriculture Projects has doubled the beneficiary selection and in delivery of going children were provided 200 ml of income of farmers and over 70% of the inputs to them. NGOs have also been flavoured milk daily in some of the trainees who underwent skill-training encouraged to participate in the poores t ta lukas and 2 ,91,000 p r o g r a m m e s h a v e r e c e i v e d programme for further transparency individuals were screened for sickle remunerative jobs and many of them and a rigorous selection procedure has cell anaemia, a serious blood cell are now working abroad. been adopted to select the partnering disorder prevalent in certain tribes of
NGOs. Gujarat. In addition, 2,57,000 families Private - Public Participation was Results of this new approach has were given houses, 5,61,000 families
another successful policy decision started showing in the fifth year. Over were provided tap water connections made under VKY. Today, some of the 700,000 (45% of the existing families) and electricity was made available to best seed and agro-based companies are individuals were covered in livelihood- over 4,85,000 (32% of population) now working in tribal areas and some of related activities; 145 new secondary families.the known industrial houses like schools were started; 57 new residential On the infrastructure front, 880 new Monsanto, United Phosphorus, Atul, schools — mainly for girl students ? public transport buses were inducted, Shroffs, Ambuja, Kribhco, GSFC, etc. were opened; 79 new industrial training drip irrigation practices actively are participating in the VKY.institutes, 10 new nursing schools were promoted in the area, over ̀ 1500 crore
The Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana aims to see a future where the tribal populace will not merely be active participants in the growth process of Gujarat, but also be important growth drivers for the state.
VKYs Progress Report:
Outcome monitored for EMRS: Number of students passing Class
10 with distinction
Outcome monitored for livelihood projects: Income
enhancement in individual families
Outcome monitored for skill training: Number of individuals
who were employed as well as, retained in the job
Some of the outcomes monitored under VKY includeSome of the outcomes monitored under VKY include
Government rose above expectations in its commitment to Tribal
Development; allocating over ̀ 17,700 crores over 5 years, having
already assured ̀ 15,000 crores initially
July, 2011 In Focus
38
Photo Feature July, 2011
A drive to ensurecent per centenrolment andzero drop out rate
SHALA PRAVESHMahotsav
Krushi Mahotsav
Bringing smiles back tothe farms of Gujarat
39
Photo FeatureJuly, 2011
In Conversation With
40
How did you become interested in shooting?
And how do you train for these competitions?
Camp. It acted as the perfect start to my which is a method to merely 'hold career. position' in order to not lose touch with
My father's in the police force. He the weight of the gun.was in the Police Indian Shooting team On days of the competition, I try to and would participate in the nationals. I stay calm. It is very important to control would go to watch him, and that was I spend most of my time at the your thoughts and remain calm in when I got interested in shooting. But I Indian Shooting camp which happens shooting especially if you are not hadn't really thought of shooting as so at Delhi or Pune. A typical day starts having such a good round, and you see much a sport as something I'd like to do. with practice from 8 in the morning to 1 others around you performing better. Then I joined the NCC and that was in the afternoon and then again from 3 The coach tells us to do breathing when I started rifle shooting. My father to 5 in the afternoon. I am performing exercises at such times, but under so was my inspiration while the NCC well these days and am going to much stress you even forget to let out provided me a platform from where I represent India in the shooting World your breath. So I generally do could launch my career. My first Cup in Germany, so most of my time is something else my father taught me, competition was in the NCC junior spent at the camp. For the first time in called 'visualisation'. It involves wing and I had performed quite well many months, I've got a chance to be concentrating on one positive thought there. I would participate in all the NCC home for 10 days. I keep practising at and visualising it. When I feel pressure, competitions like the Thal Sainik home too but it's mostly dry shooting I think of winning the Olympic Gold for
inning the silver at the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi, Lajja became the first Commonwealth medal winner for Gujarat. In a candid chat with Ankita Biswas, this 21-year-old Wrifle shooter ranked 17 in the world, talks about shooting, personal life and her dreams.
Lajja Gauswami
July, 2011
41
my country. It generally creates as I did not have a rifle then. When I positive thoughts and helps me calm called my coach at that time, Laszlo down and focus. Szucsak, he told me he would try and do
something. Eventually, Avneet Kaur Sidhu lent me her rifle and helped me participate. It was really nice of her and
Shooting has caught up since it proved lucky for me as well, for I won Abhinav Bindra's gold at the Beijing the Gold that time and even broke the Olympics, but it's still not that big. Our South Asia record in 30 m rifle country lacks proper infrastructure and shooting. In another instance, Gagan training facilities. Entry into the sport Narang, one of India's ace shooters, lent without any proper backing is very me his weapon for almost a year to difficult. practice after my NCC training, which
But I believe that perseverance does was extremely kind of him. reap rewards. Initially, while in the NCC, I would travel all the way to Vadodara each day for shooting practice. I would leave at 4 in the morning. I'd reach camp at 5, where we Not really. Studies have always would set up tents and exercise there. I gone hand in hand with shooting. I had to wait for my turn as there were began shooting in 2006, during my first only 2 rifles and 12 participants. My year of college, but I did not let it turn would come around 2 pm. I would hamper my studies. I did my Bachelors Anything but the gentleman's game practice till 5 in the evening, then wrap in Psychology which, I think, comes in - Cricket! I used to participate in all up and return. I'd reach home at around quite handy even in shooting. As I told sports while I was in the NCC. I am, 9. It went on for two years like this. And you, the mind plays an important role in however, very partial to adventure it is not just the proper training that is shooting. A lot of people try to psych sports, especially mountaineering. My hard to get. The equipment is also very each other out. My understanding of family is into adventure sports in a big expensive. The rifle alone costs over 2 psychology helps me understand way. I am trained as a mountaineering lacs. Before I got this rifle, I used to people's motivation and deal with instructor from Mount Abu. In fact one participate with borrowed rifles. mental stress better. Right now I am girl from the NCC had climbed the Fortunately, I have found help at every do ing my mas t e r s i n Pub l i c Everest. I had been practicing for a turn. There was this time when I got Administration. I believe it important to tournament at the time and had been selected for the Shooting World Cup at have a strong academic background. quite jealous when I first heard the Pakistan, but almost missed my chance news. I had thought if I didn't have to
practice shooting, even I could have climbed the Everest by now! But of course I love shooting!
As of now, I see myself shooting. I want to win at least five Olympic medals. The good thing with shooting is that age is not a handicap here. In fact, shooters tend to improve with experience and practice.
Somewhere down the line, I also want to start training academies in Gujarat so that if someone does want to take up rifle shooting as a sport, they would have it easier than I did.
Do you think Shooting in India has gained popularity these days?
Your training has been hard work, has your academic pursuits suffered because of shooting?
If it wasn't shooting, what would it be?
So where do you see yourself in the future?
Successful Returns :CM felicitating Lajja on her win at Commonwealth Games
In Conversation WithJuly, 2011
Travel
42
times of booming infrastructure and Saputara, 'the abode of serpents'. technological imperatives, it becomes The presence of the region's desirable for the people of Gujarat to devotion to the serpent Gods can be have a respite in the form of serene and observed in the snake sculpture found beautiful woodlands. Saputara – The by the Sarpagana River which flows an has evolved from being a Heaven of Gujarat, is one of the finest through the city. The snake sculpture is nomad to a dweller. We have of such retreats. worshiped by the local tribes on festive constantly found a way to M
Saputara, a major hill station of occasions such as Holi. The local tribes move from one place to another, Gujarat, is located at the southernmost that inhabit the Dang region – the constantly looking for newer places to tip of Gujarat, about 5 kms away from Warlis, the Bhils, the Kunbis and the explore and things to be enjoyed. the Gujarat–Maharashtra border. The Gamits, comprise 94% of the total Amidst this lie the byproducts of our beautiful hill station perches on the population of the district. The low worldly development such as pollution, majestic Sahyadri Range and is situated population density makes it a perfect explosion of population, degradation of at a height of 1000 meters above sea destination for nature lovers who can environment, etc. level on the Dang plateau in the Dang also submerge themselves in a Besides, we run the risk of moving forest district. The hills of Saputara wealthier knowledge of the tribal away from the lap of Mother Nature, covered with the opulence of bamboo culture by visiting the Tribal museum the Universe – the oneness.and teak wood forests in the Dang set up at Ahwa. The museum provides The State of Gujarat has observed region, make it an ideal inhabitation for spectacular exhibition of a variety of major changes over the last decade, various species of snakes from where clothes, utensils, traditional artifacts, turning the state into an economic and the hill station derives its name – lifestyles, house objects, musical industrial powerhouse of India. In such
July, 2011
Saputara
The Heaven of Gujarat
by Akshaya Karanth
Travel
43
instruments, ornaments, and many such been constructed right at the base of include the Unnai Mata Temple & Hot objects which are used by the native Saputara hill station, at the heartland of Spring, believed by many for its healing tribal ‘Dangis’. A workshop is also the Saputara valley. effects on patients with unremitting associated with the museum, where one The snake sculpture worshipped by bodily ailments and the Saptashringi can observe the ways in which the tribal communities rests at the Devi Mandir, which observes lakhs of traditional objects are made; hence pedestal of this lake. The picturesque devotees during the Dussera period.gathering lots of information about the hilly surroundings that form the view A trek to the pinnacle of the Dangis. from the lake do more than just add up Hatgadh Fort provides a magnificent
The perennially cool and breezy to the unique experience. The pleasant, panoramic view of the hill station and winds flowing from the Sahyadri well favored weather is ideal for laid- nearby ranges. The Vansda National Range add up to the beautiful climatic back tourists to enjoy their breezy Park, previously the woodland of the conditions of Saputara throughout the mornings by boating at the Saputara Maharaja of Vansda, is now a habitation year. The maximum temperature at Boat Club. The lake also has a lot in of numerous wild animals such as tiger, Saputara, even in the summers ranges store for children in the form of pangolin, giant squirrel, leopard, rusty-from a pleasant 28 to 30 degree Celsius. amusement parks and playgrounds thus spotted cat, python, etc. Purna The breezy showers of monsoon make a becoming an inclusive picnic spot for Sanctuary, a part of dense moist visit to this densely wooded region an the entire family. deciduous forests of Western Ghats, even more breathtaking experience. The Valley View Point (Sunrise supports a gamut of flora and fauna of The hill station can boast about its Point) offers a brilliant overhead view very high evolutionary value. The refreshing weather conditions as it does of the entire Saputara Valley and is Sanctuary, along with Vansda National not go through any sort of acute quite a sight to behold at any point of Park, is known in South Gujarat for temperature variations across the year, the day or night, irrespective of the conserving diverse b iological hence acting as a lovely getaway from current season. The place is a crowd resources. Hundreds of identified plant the pollution hit and heat-scorched puller during both sunrise and sunset. species with dominance of grasses and plains and metros. The trek makes for a perfect little hike broad-leaved plants in high density and
The hill station has a great array of for the adventure enthusiast. diversity are found in the Sanctuary. tourist attractions, one that even A ropeway / cable car service, Saputara also has an apiculture includes an astonishing man-made ava i l ab l e nea r Va i ty Reso r t , centre, where honey bees are artificially lake, one of the biggest tourist overlooking the Dang hills, is also cultured. Nature lovers must visit the attractions of the hill station. The region available to go up to the summit. The Botanical garden, that boast of more around the lake is equipped with all the ropeway gives one a beautiful bird's eye than 1400 species of plants from all necessary amenities and comforts such view of Saputara from above the hills. over India, including very special as hotels, swimming pools, parks, One can also unwind by the three varieties of bamboo. Ambapada, a theatres, a boat club and a museum to gardens of Saputara – the Step Garden, Dangi village near the Gira Falls, is a guarantee a cozy and a delightful the Rose Garden and the Lakeview very well known producer of bamboo-holiday in the hill station. The lake has Garden. The religious attractions based products. Dang Darbar plays host
to the annual festival celebrated in the month of March / April by various tribal communities.
They say that no matter how many times you visit a place, the impression that you get on your first visit remains forever. Saputara is a slight exception to this. Here, every visit is a first visit.
Saputara is accessible by State transport buses and private luxury coaches available from various centers of Gujarat and Maharashtra. The nearest railway station is Waghai, on the Billimora-Waghai narrow gauge section of the Western Railway. The nearest airport is Vadodara, around 320 kilometers away.
July, 2011
Perched on Top : Saputara’s native folk dance is a sight to behold
by Nitasha Nair and
Garima Tiwari
44
Art & Culture July, 2011
Revisiting An Age old art
ften in the folds of history, many a traditions, culture Oand stories are lost. Today,
in a remote part of Gujarat, there lies an age old art form which is on the brink of extinction because of new age technology and machinary.
Tangalia is a unique art with its origin and history rooted in early settlements of life in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. It has a fascinating past of love, betrayal and courage. As the folklore goes, a boy from the Bharwad tribe belonging to the shepherd community fell in love with a girl from the weaver community and married her. The couple was forced into exile by the Bharwad community and it resulted in them staying with the weaver community. Here, the boy learnt the art of weaving along with herding sheep. Thus, wool began to get woven and “Tangalia” came into existence. Today, the art of Tangalia has spread over 26 villages, and is practiced by the boy's descendants who are also known as the Dangasia community.
Tangalia, as the name suggests is derived from the word “Tangalio” meaning the lower part of the body. Traditionally, a tangalia shawl is 10 feet
Tangalia
45
long and 4 feet broad. It is worn over a petticoat on special occasions by the shepherd women of the region. Gheta (native sheep) wool forms the raw material for the weaving of base fabric on which a special technique called bead-work or dana-work is done using cotton. They use the inlay method to make interesting geometrical motifs which gives the unique distinguishable identity to Tangalia. Danna is the work done on warp with a particular design sequence, weft, put in between the other design sequences. Deriving inspiration from nature, the most commonly used motifs are designs of peacock, ambo (mango tree), and khajuri (date palm tree). Having a geometric and graphic feel these designs take on the shape of each artist's ingenuity.
The Tangalia craftsmen use a lot of contrasting colors in a way that if the base color or the field color is dark, dannas would be in bright colours. Generally, the 'Danna ka kaam' is done using vibrant and lively colors like pink, maroon, purple, orange, blue, green and red. Interestingly, black garments are a part of the traditional the Swarn Jayanti Gram Swarojagar color of the Tangalia signifies the costume of the Bharwad community. Yojana (SGSY) project. The project meaning of death of the 'savior' of the But in recent t imes, due the aims to promote this intriguing craft 'Rabaris'. Raw materials mainly used proliferation of machine made and its distinctive style for higher value are wool (warp and weft), cotton for garments and influence of the outside realization by improvising the craft so Danna work and zari for the world, the use of Tangalia garments by as to enable mass production. ornamentation of borders. the locals has reduced. This project facilitated students to
The Tangalia craft has its own Recently, this craft was picked up go to Surendranagar and learn the craft. beauty reflecting the originality and by NIFT Gandhinagar who took up the The students then applied the richness of imagination. Tangalia challenge of protecting the craft under knowledge gained of the craft to more
contemporary designs and other fabrics like cotton, which are more suitable for mass production.
In addition, this project has also h e l p e d t h e c r a f t t o a c q u i r e Geographical Indication which is basically a name or a sign used on certain products which corresponds to a specific geographical location or origin possessing certain qualities. This gives Tangalia a unique identification in interest of the artisans at a time when reproduction of articles by the unique Tangalia technique has become more of a rarity.
Closely Knit : A Tangalia artisan weaves his magic on the loom
July, 2011 Art & Culture
46
of Hemchandracharya North Gujarat Portuguese alighted at the Surat port, Univesity (HNGU). they brought in the potatoes and from
Potato being a nonperishable tuber Surat, it spread across the country. Believe it or not but it is true. usually lasting for long time was The journey of potatoes to Deesa
Gujarat was the first state in the country preferred by the mariners who kept happens to be equally interesting. to have a taste of potatoes, and Surat potatoes with them. The East India According to a potato farmer Haresh was the port through which it is said to Company established i ts f i rs t Varma, “My grand father, Nandlal have entered this country. Potato is one warehouses in Surat in 1612, and it was Varma, who had won the state award of the most widely grown vegetable at Surat that Sir Thomas Roe landed thrice for record production in the past, crop in India with a share of 25.7 per when he came as King James' had an interesting story to tell about the cent. This tasty tuber, originally called Ambassador to the Court of Emperor cultivation of potatoes in Deesa, bateka by the Gujaratis, made its way to Jahangir. Roe distributed the potatoes Gujarat. Our forefathers, who were in India with the Portuguese who among the labourers before they got Patiala military camp of the British established their kothis (forts) in Surat, spoilt when he left for Delhi to meet the Empire, were transferred to Deesa Daman & Diu and later in Goa. They Emperor. military camp in late 19th century. With called it tuber batata, according to Potatoes were originally a tuber the flavour of American potatoes Brahmakshatriya, a well-known from South America from where it lingering in their mouths, they started historian and former dean of law faculty travelled to Europe. When the cultivating the crop after their
Special Feature July, 2011
When Gujarat gave
Potatoes to India
by Pramod Panwar
47
retirement from military services.” Gujarat, famous for its Deesa
potatoes, ranks 5th in the country when it comes to potato production. Cultivation began when the British allotted land in Deesa on the banks of the Banas riverbed. “Today, Deesa is one of the highest potato-growing centre in the state with more than 50 per cent of the total production coming from Banaskantha district alone,” said Narayanbhai Patel, a scientist at the Potato Research Station at Deesa attached to Sardar Krushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Dantiwada (SDAU).
Classification of potatoThe area under potato cultivation in
India is around 1.4 million ha with total production of 25 MT yearly. It is the
cultivated commercially. Future of potatoesmost useful and important member of China is the world's largest potato Biotechnology is expected play a the family Solanaceae and it belongs to
producer while India ranks number key role in the improvement of potato genus Solanum which consists of seven four. In our country the main varieties cultivation in the future. Genetically cultivated and about 154 wild species. o f p o t a t o g r o w n a r e K u f r i modified (GM) potato varieties need to But the commercially viable potato has Chandramukhi, Kufri Jyoti, Kufri be developed in order to improve only two species: Solanum andigenum Badshah, Kufri Himalani, Kufri nutritional values and hence deserves and Solanum tuberosum. Solanum Sindhuri, Kufri Lalima etc. Uttar higher priority in related research.demissum and Solanum stenotonum Pradesh is the leading potato growing are two more species which are state followed by West Bengal and somewhat important as they are Bihar. resistant to some types of virus and
diseases. They are not, however,
July, 2011 Special Feature
At a Glance
48
Tarnetar Mela, 1st to 3rd September from the town of Thangadh. Every from Gujarat, elsewhere in India and year the fair only seems to grow in even abroad.
This year , the Tarnetar Fair is to popularity, attracting new visitors The fair is held every year as a
be held from the 1st to 3rd September celebration of Gujarat's rich
2011 (Thursday, Friday, and folk culture including dance,
Saturday) in Tarnetar Village music, and the arts. The
on grounds of Triniteshwar annual Tarnetar fair is also
Mahadev Temple. The fair is used an opportunity by young
held for three days every year men and women to find
during the Gujarati Months themselves suitable marriage
Bhadarva at Thangadh in prospects as the attendees
Surendranagar district.immerse themselves in a wild
Tarnetar fair is one of the spiral of nonstop folk music,
most popular and colourful dance and reverie.
events in the state of Gujarat. The Tarnetar fair is held 8 km
July, 2011
Upcoming Events
Independence Day, 15th AugustThe Gujarat government has decided to celebrate the
state-level 65th Independence Day function on August 15 at Nadiad in Kheda district this year.
The Independence Day, Republic Day and Gujarat's Foundation Day is celebrated at different places in the state each year, deviating from the usual tradition of hosting it only in the state capital, with a view of increasing people's participation.
During the event, freedom fighters of the district are especially remembered and commemorated, thus making people understand the magnitude of the struggle undergone by these great freedom fighters and also to instill in them, a sense of patriotism and responsibility towards the nation.
Gujarat had earlier celebrated the state-level Independence Day functions at Patan (2003), Anand (2004), Himatnagar (2005), D a h o d ( 2 0 0 6 ) , M e h s a n a ( 2 0 0 7 ) , P a l a n p u r ( 2 0 0 8 ) , Narmada-Ra jp ip l a (2009) and Rajkot (2010).
The 9 day annual 'Navratri' festival will be celebrated this year from the 28th of September to the 5th of October. Every year, Navratri is celebrated all over the country, specially so in Gujarat, where the festival assumes monumental proportions in build-up, participation and celebration . The Navratri festival is known to have its tryst with colors. During the festival, devotees wear different colors and patterns of the ethnic 'Chaniya Choli' and 'Ghaghra'. Generally the nine colors represent the nine avatars, incarnations or manifestations of Mother God-dess.
Navratri is one of the most celebrated festivals of Hindu calendar and it holds special significance for Gujaratis, who indulge in these festive activities with zeal and fervour. ‘Dandiya’ and ‘Garba Rass’ are the highlights of the festival, where farmers are known to pray for better produce and yield.
Navratri, September – 28th 5th October
A Golden Year. A Golden Dream. A Golden Future.
STOP!Hurting the Earth will only hurt us
Commissionerate of Information, Block No. 7/2, Dr. Jivraj Mehta Bhavan, Gandhinagar-382010
To,
Book packet containing printed books only