THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, April 11: Parampara aur Prayog, the latest book by Ashok Bhagat, founder and secretary of Vikas Bharti Bishunpur, was officially launched on Friday here by RSS Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale. The event was held at the Arogya Bhawan-01 campus of Vikas Bharti and marked a celebration of Bhagat’s decades-long contribution to tribal development in Jharkhand.
Documenting a Lifelong Mission
The book reflects on Bhagat’s journey from Azamgarh to Bishunpur in Gumla, and his tireless work with tribal communities. It explores his grassroots efforts to uplift particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs), promote education, health, and cultural preservation, and lead large-scale initiatives for the conservation of water, forests, and land.
Tributes from the Stage
During the ceremony, speakers including National Commission for Scheduled Tribes member Asha Lakra and National Testing Agency chairperson Pradeep Joshi, praised Bhagat’s life as an example of purposeful dedication to rural and tribal welfare.
Hosabale recalled working with Bhagat during the Emergency period and spoke about the importance of finding a balance between tradition and modern values—one of the book’s core themes. He urged attendees to read the book for its insights into forest governance, social transformation, and rural innovation.
Next Steps: Awareness Campaign Announced
At the event, Vikas Bharti announced a village-level awareness campaign on environmental conservation, to be held from April 14 to June 5, 2025, involving all the dignitaries present.
Legacy of Change
Ashok Bhagat has been a key figure in Jharkhand’s social development landscape for over four decades. Under his leadership, Vikas Bharti Bishunpur has empowered thousands in tribal communities through education, sustainable livelihoods, and cultural revival, becoming a model for rural development in India.
