PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Nov 1: Meri Maati Mera Desh campaign is a tribute to the ‘Veers’ and ‘Veeranganas’ who have made the supreme sacrifice for the country.
In the spirit of Jan Bhagidari, the campaign comprises many activities and ceremonies conducted across the country at Panchayat/Village, Block, Urban Local Body, State and National levels.
The activities included building of Shilaphalakam (Memorial) to express heartfelt gratitude to all the bravehearts who have made the supreme sacrifice; ‘Panch Pran’ pledge taking by the people at Shilaphalakam; planting of saplings of indigenous species and developing ‘Amrit Vatika’ (Vasudha Vandhan) and felicitation ceremonies for honouring the freedom fighters and the families of deceased freedom fighters (Veeron ka Vandan), among others.
The campaign became a massive success, with over 2.3 lakh Shilaphalakams built in 36 States/UTs; nearly 4 crore Panch Pran pledge selfies uploaded; 2 Lakh plus ‘Veeron ka Vandan’ programs nationwide; more than 2.36 crore indigenous saplings have been planted; and 2.63 lakh Amrit Vatikas created under the Vasudha Vandan theme across the country.
‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign also includes the Amrit Kalash Yatra, which comprises a collection of mitti and rice grains from over 6 lakh villages in rural areas and from wards in urban areas, which is sent to block level (where mitti of all villages in the block is mixed) and then to the state capital.
The mitti from state level was sent to the National Capital, accompanied by thousands of Amrit Kalash Yatris. The finale programme was held on October 31 at Kartavya Path, Delhi.
To facilitate the journeys of the volunteers travelling to Delhi with Kalash having Mitti, from different parts of the country, for the finale event, the Ministry of Railways played an important role in arranging Special Kalash Yatra Trains.
Suitable arrangements were also made with regard to reception, felicitation, meet and greet events and ensuring the safety and security of the Volunteers at railway premises. Indian Railways ran 45 Special Kalash Yatra Trains for this event.
Ministry of Railways has been actively associated with all the events organized under ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ (AKAM).
Indian Railways have made a significant contribution to disseminating awareness amongst members of the public about key events held under ‘AKAM’, namely, the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ initiative and ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’ and ‘Azadi Ki Rail Gadi Aur Stations’ through its wide network spread over length and breadth of the country.
