Physical deficiencies are not insurmountable. Given the right atmosphere and support, the people with disabilities (PWDs) can excel in all spheres of life. But the society in general lacks the awareness how the situation can be tackled, said former Chief Secretary Gokul Chandra Pati at the 2nd Odisha Youth Conclave organised by city-based Swabhiman here on Monday.
Pati said the State Government has launched a number of schemes for welfare of PWDs including special schools operated by NGOs and a four-per cent reservation in Government jobs. But awareness needs to be created so that people with physical deficiencies can avail the schemes and get benefited.
Besides, road accidents continue to create havoc, killing lakhs and maiming many for life. Most of the accidents are manmade. Negligent, rash driving and badly-trained drivers are the main cause of accidents. “So, when we see somebody violating law, we should report it to the concerned authorities even if though the lawbreaker is a relative or a friend. When citizens are aware well, serious accidents can be prevented which would save many lives and property,” he opined.
Kriya Yoga International spiritual head Gurujee HH Paramhansa Prajanananadaji Maharaj said India was rich spiritually and economically 500 years ago. People from China to Europe came here to learn about its culture, religion, lifestyle and education. But over a period of time, Indian people have lost courage and self-esteem. The Government and social leaders have failed to tackle poverty.
There is widespread corruption in the top echelons of the society. Political leaders and top bureaucrats only think about themselves and their families instead of the whole country. In modern India, thieves are everywhere. People sitting in air-conditioned rooms, getting a handsome salary and pension after being elected for five years and having subsidised food in the Parliament canteen, say that one can manage his livelihood with Rs 20 per day. This is ridiculous, said Maharaj.
‘India is India with its dynamism. We shouldn’t try to make it Europe or America. Culture in the West is of individuality. The USA has no culture of its own; it accepts cultures of others. Those who are poor in thinking are really poor.” he said.
He further said population is not a curse. “We are not able to use human resources properly. For the last seventy years, we have followed the Soviet model of social welfare instead of Gandhian principles. More attention is given to cities than villages, where the majority of the country resides.”
Speaking about the apartment living culture, he said vertical life is self-centred. One doesn’t even know his nieghbour. But in villages, where the houses are horizontal, there is a feeling of caring, sharing and community. It is often said poverty is due to joint families. But in reality, in nuclear families have the money but nobody to look up to in times of distress. Poverty is not a curse. We should be courageous, dedicated and positive-minded to succeed in life, said Prajanananadaji.
Swabhiman chief executive Sruti Mohapatra said the purpose behind the conclave was to bring the PWD youths and children to the society’s mainstream so that they can lead a normal life themselves instead of making a living with a Rs 200-pension.
Among others, mountaineer and lANCO Group CSR officer Kalpana Dash and Welingkar Management Institute, Mumbai Associate Dean Ketna Meheta also spoke and lavishly praised the Swabhiman for its efforts for welfare of PWDs.
