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BRIEF REPORT OF ACTIVITIES

1. The Post Graduate Diploma Course

The Post Graduate Diploma Course of this academic year commenced in the first week of August, 2014. Ten students were admitted to the course. The students were from the states of Manipur, Bihar, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The resource persons/faculty of the Diploma Course were Shri C.S. Dharmadhikari, Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Prof. Ramchandra Pradhan, Dr. Arunkumar, Dr. Kavimandan and others. The curriculum of the course consisted of academic sessions of classes, a study of prescribed books, written dissertations, presentation of seminar papers, day-to-day maintenance of a diary, English language, introduction to basic computer and internet applications and so on. Beside academic pursuits, it provided an opportunity to experience a disciplined way of life with prayer, yoga, meditation, devotional music, manual work including agriculture and spinning, sanitation and other works related to the management of the community. In the month of February the students went on a field visit to Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad. They visited Kochrab and Sabarmati Ashrams, Safai Vidyalaya, Rural Centre of Gujarat Vidyapith at Randheja, Enviornmental Sanitation Institute (ESI) at Sughad, GramShilpi Project at Padhamale, Tribal Research Centre, Craft work and other projects at the campus of Vidyapith, Navajivan Press and Abhay Ghat. The course concluded in the last week of March 2015. 22.. OOrriieennttaattiioonn CCaammpp The Institute organised classes on Gandhian Thought in an 'Orientation Camp' of fifteen days held at the Sevagram Ashram for the newly admitted students of the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences from 4th to 18th August, 2014. The total number of participants was sixty two. Lectures were delivered in English and Hindi. The resource persons included Shri C.S. Dharmadhikari, Dr. Anand Gokani, Prof. Ramchandra Pradhan, Shri Sanjay Matey, Dr. Ulhas Jajoo, Shri Mohan Hirabai Hiralal, Dr. Sugan Baranth, Dr. Soham Pandya, Shri Bharat Mahodaya and Dr. Siby K. Joseph. 33.. AAlluummnnii MMeeeett The alumni meet of those who had completed the Post Graduate Diploma Course in the last 3-4 years was held on 6th and 7th September, 2013. In that Meeting, it was decided to have such meets on first Saturday and Sunday of September every year to strengthen their bonds

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with the Institute. As the days are fixed there is no need for formal communications from the Institute and students themselves will take the initiative for the programme. In compliance with the decision taken in the last meeting, this year too the Alumni Meet was organized by the Institute on 6th and 7th September, 2014. In the meeting, they shared information about their current engagements and the benefits they received from the course. All participants spoke very high about the course and stated that the stay in the Institute was a land mark or turning point in their lives as it provided a base for their future achievements. It also provided an opportunity for the fresh batchers to interact with their seniors. The discussions in the meeting were guided by Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Dr. Siby K. Joseph and Shri Sanjay Matey. The total number of participants was twenty. It was decided to prepare a directory of students and publish in the net and maintain contact with the Institute and among themselves. 44.. MMaahhaarraasshhttrraa UUnniivveerrssiittyy SSttuuddeennttss'' CCaammpp The residential Gandhi Vichar Camp for University Students from Maharashtra was held from 15th to 20th September, 2014. The camp was conducted in Marathi and Hindi, and the participants were from all parts of Maharashtra region. The total number of participants was 40 representing 18 districts of Maharashtra. The diploma students also participated in some of the

sessions. Prayer, community work. agriculture, visit to ashrams and constructive organizations in Wardha, group discussions exhibition cum sale of Khadi cloths/books on Gandhian Thought and cultural events along with academic sessions were the unique features of the camp. The resource persons for the camp were Shri C. S. Dharmadhikari, Dr. Ramchandra Pradhan, Dr. Ulhas Jajoo, Shri Bharat

Mahodaya, Dr. Soham Pandya, Shri Shamsuddin Tamboli, Sanjay Matey and Dr. Siby K. Joseph. All the participants appreciated the camp and they expressed the view that the camp helped them to take initiatives to solve issues in their colleges and their respective areas. 55.. IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall NNoonn--vviioolleennccee DDaayy aanndd RReellaatteedd PPrrooggrraammmmeess As a part of various programmes of the International Day of Non-violence, the Institute of Gandhian Studies under the banner of the International Non-violence Day Committee took the initiative to disseminate the message of non-violence and to create public awareness on various issues like growing violence, communal disharmony, environmental issues and cleanliness. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, addressed a meeting of the members of Jain community at Swadhyay Mandir, Wardha on 31st August 2014 with the object of ensuring their participation in large numbers in the International Day of Non-violence padayatra and to join cleanliness and anti plastic drive initiated by the Committee. He also urged them to take up the cleaning of Mahavir Bal Udyan, Wardha. There were more than 600 persons in this meeting. A meeting of individuals committed to non-violence and representatives of various organizations and institutions was organised on the 21st September, 2014 at the Seminar hall of the Institute to chalk out the details of the programmes.

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A group of four students from People’s College, Nanded, organized a Cycle Yatra from Nanded to Sevagram to participate in the Gandhi Jayanti Padayatra organised by the International Non-violence Day Committee covering 279 kms. They started their journey on bicycle on 27th September and reached the Institute’s campus on 1st of October 2014. On the way they had stops at Hadgaon, Hivara,Yavatmal and Deoli. They devoted the cycle yatra to spread message of “Save Democracy” through casting the vote to right kind of candidates in the upcoming elections in Maharashtra. The yatra was led by a participant of Maharashtra University Students’ Camp. They shared their experiences of the journey with the faculty and students of the Institute. They participated in the Padyatra and returned to Nanded on the 3rd of October. On the 2nd of October, the Committee organised a Padyatra from Gandhi Statue in the Wardha town to Gandhi’s Ashram at Sevagram. Many public personalities, representatives of many organisations and institutions participated in the programme. Girl students of the Institute of Gandhian Studies from Manipur flagged off the rally. The programme ended with a public function at the Sevagram Ashram. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, gave a brief introduction about the programme. The function was chaired by Shri Jaywant Mathkar, President of the Sevagram Ashram. Dr. Yashwant Sumant, Head of the Department of Political Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University and Mr. Jatin Desai, Sr. Journalist from Mumbai and others spoke on the occasion. Dr. Shriram Jadhav, Secretary of the Sevagram Ashram, proposed vote of thanks. The function at the Sevagram Ashram was a joint venture of Sevagram Ashram Pratishthan; Institute of Gandhian Studies, Wardha; Nai Talim Samiti, Sevagram and Sarva Seva Sangh, Sevagram. The programme was attended by more than 1000 people. In the evening of the 2nd October collective spinning programme was also organised in the premises of the Institute. As a part of the programmes of the International Non-violence Day Committee, cleanliness drive of Nalwadi was inaugurated on October 11, 2014 with the cleaning of VIP road adjacent to the Institute. It was led by Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Dr. Meena Hivalekar and Shri. Bhitre. The P.G. Diploma Students and others participated in the cleanliness drive. As a part of the programme, the local people were encouraged to use cotton bags instead of plastic bags by providing them cotton bags at their doorstep on actual cost of production. The cleanliness drive continued throughout the year. A number of documents and films were screened to create awareness among people on various issues of which the society is confronting. 66.. RRaavviinnddrraa VVaarrmmaa MMeemmoorriiaall LLeeccttuurree

Dr. G. Vijayam, Executive Director, Atheist Centre, Vijayawada, delivered the 8th

Ravindra Varma Memorial Lecture on the 9th of October at 4.30 pm. The topic of the memorial lecture was “Gandhi: A Social Revolutionary." In his Memorial lecture, he highlighted the contributions made by Shri Ravindra Varma. He said “Gora, and Saraswathi Gora and Atheist Centre were closely associated with Ravindra Varma right from early 1940s and partners of progress in pre-and post Independent India. Like Ravindra Varma, Gora and Saraswathi Gora

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were freedom fighters, social reformers and close associates of Mahatma Gandhi.” In the course of his lecture, he said “Gandhi was distinctly different from other revolutionaries. Gandhi viewed life as an integrated whole. He touched all aspects of social reconstruction.” Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, facilitated the programme. “Ravindra Varma : A Brief Life Sketch,” written by Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of the Institute, for the volume, Contexualising Gandhian Thought:Essays in honour of and by Ravindra Varma was circulated among the participants of the programme. Thirty five persons participated in the programme including those from France, Spain and Mexico. 7. Talk of Shri Sulak Sivaraksa On the occasion of visit of Shri Sulak Sivaraksa (Founder, International Network of Engaged Buddhists (INEB) and recipient of Jamnalal Bajaj International Award for promoting Gandhian values outside India-2014 and many other international recognitions including Right Livelihood Award) to Wardha a talk was arranged at the Seminar Hall of the Institute of Gandhian Studies on 29th November, 2014. Shri Sulak Sivaraksa recalled his close association

with the Institute of Gandhian Studies and visit to Wardha and Delhi for some of the International programmes organized by the Institute. In his talk, he emphasized on the message and contributions of Buddha and Gandhi. He said “ Gandhiji stressed Truth. His whole life was experimenting with Truth. He abided by the truth. The Buddha’s essential message is Four Noble Truths -The truth of suffering- personal as well as social and environmental.” He asserted that the great liberator of humankind after Buddha was Gandhiji. Satyagraha is application of truth through non-violent means. Satyagraha of Gandhi based on Ahimsa had significant influence on leaders outside India. He concluded by expressing the hope that the message of

Buddha and Gandhi would continue to spread all over the globe like the growing of trees and we would overcome the global crises only by putting their message into practice. The programme was attended by faculty, students and guests of the Institute. 8. Felicitation Programme of Jamnalal Bajaj Award Winners-2014 The Institute joined hands with Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation, Mumbai in welcoming Jamnalal Bajaj Award Winners- 2014 at Wardha on 29th November, 2014. This is the second year in succession the awardees were visiting Wardha after the award function at Mumbai .The award winners visited the Paunar and Sevgram Ashrams, and other important places in Wardha. A felicitation function was arranged at the Seminar Hall of Bajaj Science Centre, Gandhi Gyan Mandir, Wardha at 4.30p.m. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, welcomed the guests and gave a brief introduction about the programme. The Awardees were felicitated at the function in a traditional manner. A documentary on Jamnalal Bajaj Awardees and their work was screened on the occasion. Shri Sulak Sivaraksa, Founder, International Network of Engaged Buddhists (INEB) and recipient of Jamnalal Bajaj International Award for promoting Gandhian values outside India; Mrs. Chennupati Vidya Founder President, Vasavya Mahila Mandali, Vijayawada and recipient of Jamnalal Bajaj Award for Constructive Work; Shri Ram Kumar Singh, Managing Trustee and Director, Suruchi Shikshan Vasahat Trust, Bardoli and recipient of Jamnalal Bajaj Award for Application of Science and Technology for Rural development shared their experiences in their respective fields. They were duly introduced by Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dr. Keerthi and Dr. Soham Pandya. Dr. Ram Chandra Pradhan, Senior Member of the teaching faculty of the Institute of Gandhian Studies presided over the function.

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Shri C. Y. Deshpande, Bajaj Science Centre, Wardha proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was attended by around 150 people representing different cross sections of society and educational and constructive organizations and institutions in Wardha. 9. Short Term Course on Gandhian Thought This academic year the Institute offered a special Short Term Course on Gandhian Thought of five months duration. The Course commenced in the last week of November, 2014. Five graduate/post graduate students were admitted to the course. The students were from the states of Odisha, Kerala and Maharashtra. The resource persons/faculty of the Course were Shri C.S. Dharmadhikari, Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Prof. Ramchandra Pradhan, Dr Arun Kumar, Dr. Kavimandan and others. The curriculum of the course was similar to the Post Graduate Diploma Course. In the month of February the students went on a field visit to Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad along with the Post Graduate Diploma Course students. The course concluded in the last week of March 2015.

10. Students and Youth Camp at Kokrajhar (Assam) The Institute collaborated with Sarva Seva Sangh and West Bengal Gandhi Peace Foundation in the organization of 5 days Students and Youth Camp at Gaonbura Bhavan Kokrajhar, Assam from 29 November to 3 December 2014. The main objectives of the camp were to acquaint the younger generation with life and thought of Mahatma Gandhi and inspire them to become messengers of peace in the violence affected areas of Assam. The subjects dealt in the camp centered around Gandhian thought and Peace Studies. The resource persons of the camp were Prof. Satyabrata Chowdhury, Prof. Sandip Das, Shri Bharat Mahodaya,Shri Ramesh Sharma, Shri Ashoke Bharat and Shri Chandan Pal. Prayer, Yoga,Shramdan,cultural events,sports training on soap, hair oil, tooth powder, incense sticks making were the unique features of the camp. As part of peace mission the resource persons of the camp visited some of the villages affected by violence in Kokrajhar and interacted with Bodo and Muslim Communities. The total number of participants was 32 mainly from Assam representing different communities and religious faiths. 11. All India University Students Camp The annual residential Gandhi Vichar Camp for University students was held from the 23rd to 30th of December, 2014. The total number of participants was fifty. The students of the Post Graduate Diploma Course run by our Institute also participated in the camp. Prayer, Yoga classes, community work, visit to ashrams and constructive work organizations in Wardha, screening of films, group discussions, library work and cultural events were the unique features of the camp. The Camp was conducted in English and Hindi and lectures were delivered by Shri C. S. Dharmadhikari, Shri Dhurubhai Mehta, Prof. Ramchandra Pradhan, Shri Kailash Chandra Pant, Dr. Shobhana Rande, Dr. William Baskaran, Dr. Shubhada Pandey, Shri Shamsuddin Tamboli, Prof. Jeevan Kumar, Dr. John Chelladurai, Shri Bharat Mahodaya and Dr. Siby K. Joseph. The camp was highly appreciated by students from different universities of India.

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1122.. SShhoorrtt TTeerrmm CCoouurrssee oonn GGaannddhhiiaann TThhoouugghhtt ffoorr Lakshmi Ashram The short term course on Gandhian Thought for the students of Lakshmi Ashram, Kausani (Uttarakhand), commenced on the 1st of January, 2015. The group consisted of seven students and two accompanying teachers. Before the commencement of the course, they visited constructive organisations in and around Wardha and Anandwan at Warora. The resource persons for the programme were Prof. Ram Chandra Pradhan, Shri Baharat Mahodaya, Shri Soham Pandya, Shri Anil Farsole, Dr. Siby K. Joseph and others. The daily schedule of the short term course was similar to the Diploma Course. The course was concluded on the 9th February, 2015. 1133.. IInntteerr RReelliiggiioouuss SSttuuddyy CCoouurrssee

The Institute of Gandhian Studies organised an Inter Religious Study Course in collaboration with Gandhi Peace Foundation, New Delhi and Centre of Science for Villages Dattapur, Wardha from 2nd to 7th of January, 2015 on the theme the Science and Spirituality

viz. Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam and Christianity. This course was held at the campus of the Institute. One day was devoted to the study of each religion. The discourses on the theme of the course were delivered by Ven. Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche, Dharmsala; Dr. Srivatsa Goswami, Vrindawan; Dr. Stephen Jayard, Pune; Samani Satya Pragya and Samani Rohini Pragya, Ladnun; Prof. Akhtarul Wasey, New Delhi. The course was attended by students, social activists, college teachers, religious leaders and students of philosophy and theology. The total number of participants in the course was forty one. The students of the Post graduate Diploma Course in

Gandhian Thought and students of Short Term Training courses also participated in the Course. 14. Talk of Ven. Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche at Sevagram Ashram On the occasion of visit of Ven. Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche, (formerly Prime Minister, Central Tibetan Administration in exile and currently serving as the Chancellor of Sanchi University of Buddhist-Indic Studies, Madhya Pradesh) to the Institute, a public lecture was arranged at the Yatri Niwas, Sevagram Ashram on 3rd of January 2015 at 10 a.m. Shri Surendra Kumar, Secretary, Gandhi Peace Foundation, New Delhi introduced the guest speaker. He addressed the concerned citizens of Wardha, students and teachers and social activists on the topic Reflections on Nonviolence as means of struggle for Autonomous Tibet. The programme was joint venture of Institute of Gandhian Studies, Gopuri, Wardha and the Sevagram Ashram Prathisthan. The programme was attended by more than 100 persons. The talk was an eye opener for the participants on the Tibet issue and the significance of Gandhian Non-violence in their struggle.

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1155.. JJaammnnaallaall BBaajjaajj--112255tthh BBiirrtthh AAnnnniivveerrssaarryy SSeemmiinnaarr oonn TTrruusstteeeesshhiipp As a part of the 125th Birth Anniversary celebrations of Jamnalal Bajaj, Institute of Gandhian Studies, Wardha organised a Seminar on Trusteeship: Current Issues, Corporate Social Responsibility and Creation of Non-violent Society from 19-21 February, 2015. The seminar was organised with the objective of analysing Gandhi’s concept of trusteeship as an alternative way of managing the resources in the context of growing Naxal violence, widening the gap between the rich and the poor, inequity etc. and to initiate dialogue on possibilities and challenges in the implementation of Gandhi’s idea of Trusteeship. Moreover, it explored the possibilities and shortcomings of the new Act on Corporate Social Responsibility. The Seminar was formally inaugurated on 19th of February by lighting the traditional lamp by dignitaries and delegates from different parts of India and abroad. Dr. Ramjee Singh, former Vice Chancellor, Jain Vishva

Bharti Institute, Ladnun (Rajasthan) delivered the keynote address. Justice Shri C.S. Dharmadhikari, Chairman of the Institute of Gandhian Studies delivered the Valedictory Address. Seventeen papers relating to the central theme of the seminar were presented in the Seminar. The major topics discussed in the seminar include the following: Trusteeship - Its Philosophy, Scope and possibilities, Trusteeship as Ethical Economics, Trusteeship as an Ideal Tool for Positive Social Change, Role of institutions and concerned academics in

the dissemination of ideas contained in Gandhi’s Trusteeship, Role and Contribution of Tribal women, Trusteeship as an Alternative to Capitalist and Socialist Systems, Reinterpreting Trusteeship, Jamnalal Bajaj: Business Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility and Trusteeship, Trusteeship in Practice, Trusteeship as an alternatives to Violence and Peaceful Resolution of Conflicts, Trusteeship and Environment, Reflections on Trusteeship: From the Experience of Friends Commune, Limitations and Possibilities of Corporate Social Responsibility, Trusteeship, Corporate Social Responsibility and Socialism, The UN Global Compact and Corporate Social Responsibility, The Contribution of Corporate Social Responsibility to Sustainable Development, Corporate Social Responsibility: An Unexplored Potential-The case of Nepal. The Seminar brought together more than 40 scholars and activists from India and abroad. In addition the students of Post Graduate Diploma Course and Short Term Course participated in the seminar. 1166.. UUnniivveerrssiittyy SSttuuddeennttss’’ CCaammpp aatt SShhaahhaappuurr,, BBeettuull ((MMaaddhhyyaa PPrraaddeesshh))

The Institute organised a Gandhi Vichar Camp for University Students at Shasakiya Mahavidyalaya, Shahapur Dist. Betul, Madhya Pradesh from 8-10 March, 2015. The total number of participants was Forty Nine. The Camp was conducted in Hindi and lectures were delivered by Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Dr. Dharmendra Kumar Singh, Dr. Mahendra Giri, Shri R. K. Choure, Dr. R.D. Sharma and others. A Sadbhavana rally was organised before

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the commencement of the camp from the college to the Bus Stand and back. The principals of various colleges and social activists were present in the valedictory session of the camp. Prayer, community work, sale of Khadi cloths and books, essay competition, poster making and cultural events were the unique features of the camp. The camp was appreciated by all participants and programme got wide coverage in the media. 1177.. OOtthheerr PPrrooggrraammmmeess a) INSPIRE Programme of Tata-Dhan Academy Thirteen students of Two Year Programme in Development Management of Tata-Dhan Academy came to the Institute on 10th May, 2014. The visit was a part of Institutional Pan-India for Reflective Exposure (INSPIRE). The purpose of the visit was to expose and interact with development leaders for deriving inspiration and motivation and understand the development approaches of the visiting organizations. They went on an exposure visit to ashrams and constructive organizations in Sewagram and Wardha. Shri. P. Rajan. Member of the teaching Faculty and Coordinator INSPIRE of Tata-Dhan Academy accompanied the group and Dr John Chelladurai, member of Academic Faculty, Gandhi Research Foundation, Jalgaon facilitated the programme. Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of Studies and Research of the Institute gave a brief introduction about the Institute and interacted with the faculty and the students. On the 11th May they went to Anandvan, Warora. The group highly appreciated the programme and expressed the desire to have such programmes in future. b) Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak Smriti Diwas To pay tribute to the life and contributions of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak a special programme was arranged at the Sevagram Ashram on the occasion of his day of demise. The programme was jointly organised by Sevagram Ashram Pratisthan, Institute of Gandhian Studies, Nai Talim Samiti and Sarva Sewa Sangh at Yatri Niwas Sewagram. Persons from different cross-sections of society representing the states of Maharashtra, Bihar, Gujarat, Kerala, M.P. and others paid homage to the leader. Shri Ramesh Ojha was the chief speaker on this occasion. Shri Jayawant Mathkar, President of Sevagram Ashram Prathisthan chaired the programme. Shri Bharat Mahodaya felicitated the guest speaker and also proposed a vote of thanks. The total number of participants was thirty. c) Lecture on Genetically Modified Crops/foods Shri Kapil Shah, Managing Trustee of Jatan (an organisation pioneering in the field of organic farming in Gujarat) delivered a lecture on Genetically Modified Crops/foods on 23rd September 2014 at the Seminar Hall of the Institute .He discussed on various issues related to the theme like food safety, bio- piracy, policies of the governments at the national and international level, effects on the farmers and so on. Poison on the Platter, a film made by Mahesh Bhatt and Ajay Kanchan, illustrating how all of our lives are adversely affected by genetically modified foods, was screened on the occasion. People from different walks of life participated in the programme. The total number of participants was thirty. Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of Studies and Research of the Institute, facilitated the programme. d) Lecture on J. C. Kumarappa Dr. Chaitra Vilas Redkar, Assistant Professor and Head in Charge, Department of Political Science, SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai delivered a lecture on the Economic Philosophy of J. C. Kumarappa at the Institute mainly for the post-graduate diploma course students on 1st of October 2014. Her topic of research was J. C. Kumarappa: A Study in Gandhism. In her lecture, she underlined the unique contributions of Kumarrappa in the field of economics. In the course of her lecture, she asserted that Kumarappa was in favour of rural industrialization

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and was only against highly mechanized industrialization on capitalist lines. The economic ideas of Kumarappa constitute an alternative model of development. The lecture was followed by discussion on the theme of the presentation. The Faculty of the Institute also participated in the discussion. e. Workshop on Economic Policy Shri Ravi Kohad, a civil Engineering graduate from Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi and coordinator of Yuva Kranti organised a workshop at the Institute on 6th of October 2014. In the workshop he highlighted the link between international political conspiracy and world economic order. He said “the spiritual power rests with Vatican, financial power with London and political power with Washington DC.” More than a dozen rich families control the financial systems all over the globe and control the world economy. They have control and domination over the money or banking systems and resources irrespective of the fact that who rules the nations. The governments should reframe the policies in order to have control over the financial institutions and that would result in regaining the economic prosperity and welfare of the people. Shri Akshaya Kumar of Yuva Kranti and an alumnus of the Institute presided over the programme. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, facilitated the programme. The workshop was followed by threadbare discussion on certain policy prescriptions suggested by him. Twenty five persons participated in the workshop. f) Annasaheb Sahatrabudhe Jayanti and Jayaprakash Narayan Punyatithii To pay tribute to the life and contributions of Annasaheb Sahatrabudhe and Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan, a special programme was arranged at the Sevagram Ashram coinciding with the occasion of birthday of Annasaheb Sahatrabudhe on 7th October and the day of demise of Jayaprakash Narayan on 8th October. The programme was held at Gauri Bhavan, Sevagram Ashram on October 7th 2014 at 4.30 pm. It was jointly organised by Sevagram Ashram Pratishthan; Institute of Gandhian Studies, Wardha; Nai Talim Samiti, Sevagram; Sarva Seva Sangh, Sevagram and Gandhi Seva Sangh,Sevagram. Shri Kanakmal Gandhi, Smt. Jasben Gandhi and Dr. Ulhas Jajoo spoke on the occasion about Annasaheb Sahatrabudhe. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director, Institute of Gandhian Studies, presided over the meeting and talked about Jayaprakash Narayan. Dr. Soham Pandya also spoke on the occasion. g) Consultative Meet for 125th Jayanti of Shri Jamnalal Bajaj A consultative meet was organised at the Institute to chalk out programmes in connection with the 125th Jayanti of Shri Jamnalal Bajaj on October13, 2014 at 4 pm. The purpose of the meeting was to ensure the participation of organisations connected with Shri Jamnalal Bajaj in the celebration of his Jayanti in an appropriate manner and chalked out a tentative outline of the proposed programme on his birthday. The representatives of 10 organisations participated in the meet. The meet also discussed about the programme that can be taken up at the individual and collective level by different organizations throughout the year. h) 125th Jayanti of Shri Jamnalal Bajaj As a part of the celebration of 125th Jayanti of Shri Jamnalal Bajaj a special meeting was organized at the Seminar Hall of the Institute on 4th November, 2014 at 8.00 a.m. The students, faculty and staff members offered floral tributes to Shri Jamnalal Bajaj in the Seminar Hall of the Institute and garlanded the statute in the campus of the Institute. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, addressed meeting and gave brief life sketch of Shri Jamnalalji and his contributions. Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of Studies and Research of the Institute, in his address reminded the audience that the Institute of Gandhian Studies was founded in memory Shri Jamnalal Bajaj and we have great responsibility of building this Institute as a living tribute to the life of an extra ordinary personality who dedicated his life for the ideals of Mahatma.

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The students, faculty and staff members also participated in the programme organised at Gitai Mandir on the occasion.

i) Centenary of Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa The Institute of Gandhian Studies joined hands with Sevagram Ashram Prathishthan and other Gandhian and constructive organizations in organization of programmes in connection with Centenary celebrations of Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa on 9th January 1915. To mark the centenary year of Gandhi’s return to India a programme was organized at the Sevagram Ashram on January 9, 2015. Justice Shri C.S. Dharmadhikari, Chairman of the Institute was the keynote speaker. While delivering the lecture he stated that Mahatma Gandhi saw real India in her villages and the state and central governments should initiate rural development programmes taking cue from the vision of Gandhiji. He also emphasized the need for educating younger generations about the thoughts of the Father of the Nation. He pointed out that his line of thought is accepted globally. It has clues to solve many problems confronted by the humanity. Other dignitaries who spoke on the occasion include Shri Dhirubhai Mehta, President Kasturba Health Society and Shri Mahadev Vidrohi, President of Sarva Seva Sangh. Shri Jayawant Mathkar, President of Sevagram Ashram Prathisthan welcomed the participants and Shri Bharat Mahodaya proposed a vote of thanks. The total number of persons attended the programme was over 150. Before the commencement of the programme, a rally was also taken from Kasturba hospital, Sevagram to Bapu Kuti.

j) 100th Jayanti of Shri Kamalnayan Bajaj As a part of the 100th Birth anniversary celebration of of Shri Kamalnayan Bajaj a special meeting was organized at the Seminar Hall of the Institute on 23rd January, 2015 at 6 am. The students, faculty and staff members of the Institute offered floral tributes to Shri Kamalnayan Bajaj in the Seminar Hall of the Institute. Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, gave a brief life sketch of Shri Kamalnayanji through anecdotes. The students, faculty and staff members also participated in the programme organised at Gitai Mandir on the occasion. They also participated in the programme organised at G.S. College of Commerce Wardha on the occasion and saw a brief documentary on his life and contributions to the society.

k) Tributes to Shri Narayan Desai Shri Naryan Desai who spearheaded the thoughts of Gandhi through his series of “Gandhi Katha” passed away on March 15, 2015. He was the son of Mahadev Desai, Gandhi’s personal secretary and served as the Chancelor of Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad. He was associated with activities of the Institute. A meeting was organized at the Institute on 18th March at 5 p.m to pay tributes to the departed soul. More than 80 persons representing Gandhian and constructive organizations in Wardha participated in the meeting. While addressing the audience Pravinaben Desai, Karunaben, Dr. Shriram Jadav and Shri Shinde recollected their personal acquaintance with Shri Deasi and portrayed his life and contributions. Shri Bharat Mahodaya presided over the programme. 1188.. PPaarrttiicciippaattiioonn iinn SSeemmiinnaarrss aanndd WWoorrkksshhooppss Zakir Hussain Memorial Lecture–2014: Justice Shri C. S. Dharmadhikari, Chairman of the Institute, delivered Zakir Hussain Memorial Lecture – 2014 on August 29, 2014 at India International Centre, New Delhi. The topic of his lecture was Indian Nationalism - a Reality or Fiction. He portrayed Dr. Zakir Hussain as an apostle of ‘secularism’ and ‘nationalism’. He stated that Dr. Zakir Hussain was the backbone of the concept of ‘Nai Talim’ propagated by Mahatma Gandhi. He presented Nehru and Tagore Literacy Awards to individuals and organizations for their outstanding contribution in the field of adult education. Shri K. C.

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Choudhary, President, Indian Adult Education Association, formally released the book Contemplating Gandhi: Essays on Mahatma’s life and thought written by Justice Shri C. S. Dharmadhikari on that occasion. The programme was organised by Indian Adult Education Association, New Delhi. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, delivered the inaugural address on the theme Gandhian Philosophy in Today's Context to the participants of Gandhi Vichar Camp held on 10 September 2014 at Sarva Seva Sangh, Mahadevbhai Bhavan, Sevagram Wardha. On 14th September 2014, Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of Studies and Research of the Institute, addressed the same group on the theme Lessons from Gandhi’s life and its contemporary significance. Lecture on Right of Peoples to Peace: On 21st September 2014, Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of Studies and Research of the Institute, participated in the Peace rally organised in connection with the International Day of Peace celebrations at Bhubaneswar. The programme was organized by Odisha Peace Builders Forum, Berhampur. He also delivered a lecture on Right of Peoples to Peace: Some Reflections from a Gandhian Perspective as the chief guest at the function. The Declaration on the Right of Peoples to Peace and the present theme of International Day of Peace viz. Right of Peoples to Peace largely looks upon peace as absence of war and violence that is nothing but negative peace and not positive peace which calls for the presence of the conditions for a just and sustainable peace. The programme was held at Institute of Engineers, Bhubaneswar. The Solidarity for Developing Communities (SFDC) and Odisha Peace Builders Forum are planning to publish his lecture as a booklet along with relevant UN resolutions which he referred in the course of the lecture. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, participated in the Gowansh Hatya Bandi and Ahimsa Jan Jagararn Padyatra organised by Jain Samaj of Wardha on September 30, 2014. Shri Bharart Mahodaya, presided over a talk on Gandhian Philosophy delivered by Dr. Yashwant Sumant, Head of the Department of Political Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University at G.S. College of Commerce, Wardha on October 1, 2014. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, presided over a function organized in connection with the 35th anniversary of Gitai Mandir, Gopuri on October 7, 2014. Shri Bharart Mahodaya, as the Chief Guest of the Valedictory Programme, addressed the participants of Social Service Camp on October 11, 2014. It was organised by Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram at Dhanora village of Wardha. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, presided over a function organised by Maharashtra Khadi Gramodyog Madhyavarti Sangh near Maganvadi, Wardha and inaugurated the Khadi Gramodyog exhibition on October 12, 2014. Dr. Ramchandra Pradhan, senior member of the teaching faculty of the Institute, delivered a series of lectures on central Philosophy of Gandhi, vision of ideal society world order and approaches to social transformation for the students of newly started PG Diploma in Gandhian Social Work run by Gandhi Research Foundation, Jalgaon from 11th to 15th October 2014.

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On October 29, 2014,Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, visited the following villages viz. Inglon, Kivlp and Khasal in the district of Pune along with Shri Mukherjee of Jankidevi Bajaj Gram Vikas Sanstha (JBGVS), Pune and saw the work of JBGVS in these villages in areas like Self Help Groups (SHGs), milk production, e-learning etc.. Symposium on Reflections on Present Education System in India: On 10th November, 2014, Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of Studies and Research of the Institute, participated in the Symposium organized by Centre for Gandhian Studies, Tripura University, Tripura. He chaired the first technical session and gave a critical view of the prsentations. In the second technical session, he presented a paper entitled Gandhi’s concept of Basic education, which provided an overview of Gandhi’s perception of education and its current significance. Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, participated and took part in the discussions in the Workshop on Gandhiji for Younger Generation at Nisargopachar Gramsudhar Trust, Uruli Kanchan, Nisargopachar Ashram, Pune on 12th and 13th December,2014 International Symposium at Kathmandu: Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, participated in the two day International Symposium coinciding with Nepal’s National Martyr’s Day and Mahatma Gandhi’s Martyrdom on 30th and 31st January,2015. It was jointly organised by Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Foundation and Joint Youth and Students Platform (JYSP) Nepal. He was one of the important Guests at the inaugural session of the programme.

The symposium mainly focused on Conflict resolution through Gandhian way, application of Gandhian thought in good governance and anti corruption movement and empowerment of women. He contributed towards the deliberations of symposium by making brief presentations on the main themes of the programme. On the 31st of January,along with some delegates and dignitaries of the programme, Shri

Bharat Mahodaya had a meeting with Hon. Dr. Shri Ram Baran Yadav, the President of Nepal and he presented a bust of Gandhi and a copy of one of Institute’s publication as a memento to the President. The Institute supported this programme by deputing the director of the Institute for the programme and also provided academic support by giving some of the papers written by Dr. Siby K. Joseph and Dr. Ram Chandra Pradhan on governance, corruption and empowerment of women as background papers for circulation among the participants. 19. Assessment/Evaluation

In the months of May and June 2014, Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, as a member of the selection committee of Jamnalal Bajaj Award undertook tours in following places viz. Vishakhapattanam, Jaipur, Drugapur, Bardoli, Ahmedabad, Vijayawada, New Delhi, Imphal, Anantpur, Pahadganj and Deharadun to assess the work of respective organizations and submitted the evaluation reports to the screening committee of the Jamnalal Bajaj Award. 20. Appointments

Shri Bharat Mahodaya, Director of the Institute, was elected as the Chairman of Centre of Science for Villages in the General body Meeting of the Centre on 4th October, 2014 for a period of three years.

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In December 2014, Shivaji University, Kohlapur appointed Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of the Institute, as a member of ad-hoc Board of Gandhian Studies of the University. 21. Gram Shilpi Project

The Institute initiated the Gram Shilpi Project this year with aim of supporting village work and spreading Gandhi’s message in rural areas. To begin with Shri Pravin Satokar, an alumnus of the Institute, was appointed as Gram Shilpi cum Coordinator of the Institute in October 2014 for a period of six months. During the period under review, he concentrated on village initiatives at Nimsada village, cleanliness drive in different parts of Wardha and formation of a group concentrating on swachhata abhiyan. He also coordinated some of the activities of the Institute. In addition, Shri Joynal Hossen, an alumnus of the Institute was appointed as Gram Shilpi in February, 2015 for a period of one year in Tripura with the support of Gandhi Peace Foundation, New Delhi. During the period under review, he concentrated on spreading the Gandhi’s message of non-violence and peace in villages through students and youth through different programmes by creating links with schools and colleges and the University. He also contributed towards the Kokrajhar peace mission in Assam initiated by Gandhian fraternity. 22. Visiting Scholars and others Mr. Vijay Takey, Project Co-ordinator, Gram Vikas Kendra, Chandrapur which is a centre of Indian Institute of Youth Welfare, Nagpur visited the Institute on 10th May, 2014 and held discussions with Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of the Institute. Radhaben Bhatt, Chairperson, Gandhi Peace Foundation, New Delhi; visited the Institute on 2nd August, 2014 and delivered a lecture on Laxmi Ashram and its Basic education programme to the Post Graduate Diploma students of the Institute. Dr. M.P. Mathai, Dean, Gandhi Research Foundation, Jalgaon, came to the Institute on 2nd of August 2014. He addressed the Post Graduate Diploma students of the Institute on 3rd of August on the subject Why one should study Gandhi?. The lecture was followed by a lively discussion on the theme He held discussions with teaching faculty of the Institute during his stay. On 13th September, 2014, the participants of the youth camp organised by Sarva Seva Sangh, Sevagram, Wardha visited the Institute. Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of Studies and Research of the Institute, gave a brief introduction to the Institute and interacted with the group on the question Gandhi’s approach to Caste especially in the wake of Arundhati Roy’s remark that Gandhi was casteist. Ms. Martina Morelli, Ms. Lusia Aladio and Ms. Sarah Restango from Italy visited the Institute along with three other Indian students of Mahatma Gandhi International Hindi University, Wardha on the 3rd of October and held discussions with faculty members of the Institute. Rev. Fr. Augustine Mundiath of Claretian Ashram, Sawangi Meghe, Wardha also visited the Institute along with two other guests and had discussions with the faculty of the Institute. Shri K. Madhu of Mathrubhoomi Channel, Kozhikode, during his tour in Maharashtra visited the Institute and held discussions with Dr. Siby K. Joseph, Dean of the Institute on October 9, 2014.

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Ms. Elsie Veyrand and Ms. Luciya Legend of Community of Ark of St. Antoine, St. Antoine L Abbaye, France along with Mr. Sebastian Montero, Cuernavaca, Mexico, stayed in the Institute from 6th to 14th October 2014. During their stay they participated in the activities of the Institute and interacted with students and faculty of the Institute. They also visited the ashrams, constructive work organizations and cotton farming in one of the villages in Wardha. On the 13th October Ms. Elsie Veyrand and Ms. Luciya Legend made a presentation of Communities of Ark founded by Lanza Del Vasto, the French disciple of Gandhi and the Community of Ark of St. Antoine. Shri Chandan Pal, Secretary, Gandhi Peace Foundation, West Bengal visited the Institute along with Shri Dharmendra Rajput (Shanti Yatri, Assam) of Akola and shared their experience in Peace work in Assam with the Director and Dean of the Institute on 16th of October 2014. On 8th November, Shri Pratik Ghosh, Director of Gandhi Smarak Sanghrahalaya, Kolkata visited the Institute. On 15th November 2014, Dr. John Chelldurai and Mr. Ashwin Zala faculty members of Gandhi Research Foundation, Jalgaon along with the students of newly started P.G. Diploma in Gandhian Social Work visited the Institute. Dr. Siby K. Joseph of the Institute welcomed the group and gave a brief introduction about the Institute. On 4th December 2014, a group of more than 35 students undergoing course of studies in Gandhian Thought along with faculty members of Shree HanumanVyayam Prasark Mandal, (HVPM) Amravati, visited the Institute . Dr. Siby K. Joseph of the Institute welcomed the group and gave a brief introduction about the Institute.On the occasion, Dr. Ram Chandra Pradhan of the Institute, delivered a lecture on the life and message of Gandhi. On the 18th December 2014, Prof. J. N. L. Rao of Osmania University along with a research scholar visited the Institute and held discussion with Dr. Siby K. Joseph. On 24th December 2014, Shri Shekhar Bajaj, trustee of the Institute visited the Institute and had interactions with the faculty and students of the Institute. On 9th March, 2015, Aneeshkumar K., an alumnus of the Institute and Coordinator of Ekta Parishad, Bhopal along with Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma visited the Institute on 9th March 2015 and stayed in the campus of the Institute for two days. During their stay they held discussions with Dr. Siby K. Joseph and interactions with the students of the Institute. On 10th March, 2015 Shri Rajgopal P.V., Founder of Ekta Parishad and Jill Carr Haris, International Coordinator, International Initiatives–People’s Sovereignty over Land and Livelihood Resources through Nonviolent Action, New Delhi, Mrs. Pratibha Shinde, Mumbai and other social activists visited the Institute and held discussions with Dr. Siby K. Joseph on Gandhi’s approach to management of societal resources and revolutionary nature of his concept of trusteeship.

On 11th March 2015, Dr. Atul Kumar and Shri Madan Lal Hind, media reporters from New Delhi visited the Institute and Dr. Siby K. Joseph briefed them about the activities of the Institute.

2233.. RReesseeaarrcchh aanndd PPuubblliiccaattiioonnss

The text of Justice Shri C. S. Dharmadhikari’s Zakir Hussain Memorial Lecture – 2014 titled Indian Nationalism - a Reality or Fiction, both in English and Hindi was published by Indian Adult Education Association, New Delhi.

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Dr. Siby K. Joseph of the Institute provided academic support to the interdisciplinary journal, GITAM Journal of Gandhian Studies by preparing a review report of one of the articles to be considered by the editorial board of the journal for publication.

He also published a research paper entitled The Sarvodaya Social Order and Gandhian Ethics of Non-possession: An Antidote to Corruption in the GITAM Journal of Gandhian Studies, (Vol.3, No.2, July –December 2014)published by GITAM University Press, Rushikonda, Visakapatnam.

24. Website

The website of the Institute was updated by uploading the book Contemplating Gandhi:

Essays on Mahatma’s life and thought written by Justice Shri. C.S. Dharmadhikari. To access the publication Rule of the Heart: The Justice of Chandrashekhar Dharmadhikari a link was created in the website of the Institute. The brief report of the activities of the Institute of Gandhian Studies for the academic year 2013-14 was also uploaded in the website of the Institute.

The process of automation of the library of the Institute is in progress and now one can

search the books available in the library by topic, author or title by clicking the domain http://library.gvpwardha.in/ in the website of the Institute.

SJ-RF[14-15]