Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti 2023: Date, History and Significance
On the 2nd October, India celebrates not one but two great leaders who left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. While the world observes Gandhi Jayanti on this day. It is also an occasion to commemorate the birth anniversary of another remarkable leader, Lal Bahadur Shastri. In 2023, Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti holds special significance as we remember the life and legacy of the man who served as India’s second Prime Minister. Lal Bahadur Shastri, born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh, remains an enduring symbol of selfless service and dedication to the nation.
Shastri was a freedom fighter and a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi. He played a key role in the Indian independence movement and was imprisoned several times by the British. After independence, he served in various ministerial positions in the government of Jawaharlal Nehru.
Early Life and Educational Life of Lal Bahadur Shastri
Lal Bahadur Shastri was born into a humble lower-class family. His father, Sharda Prasad Srivastava, was a teacher and his mother, Ramdulari Devi, was a homemaker. Born with the name of Lal Bahadur Srivastava, he earned the title ‘Shastri’ due to his academic excellence. This commitment to education would be a defining trait throughout his life, as he went on to become not only a leader but also an academic and activist.
Political Career
Lal Bahadur Shastri’s political journey was characterized by unwavering dedication to the Indian National Congress political party. He served as the second Prime Minister of India from 1964 until his untimely demise in 1966. His tenure as Prime Minister marked a period of significant change and progress for India.
As a leader, he held various key positions, including Minister of External Affairs and Railways. His tenure was marked by several notable achievements, including the signing of the Tashkent Agreement, which aimed to ease tensions between India and Pakistan. This diplomatic success earned him respect on the global stage.
Lal Bahadur Shastri’s “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan”
One of Lal Bahadur Shastri’s enduring legacies is the slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan,” which translates to “Hail the Soldier, Hail the Farmer.” This powerful phrase emphasized the vital contributions of soldiers and farmers to the country’s prosperity. It underscored the need to support and honor those who protect the nation and those who feed it. This slogan continues to inspire and resonates deeply with the Indian spirit.
Significance of Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti 2023
Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti holds immense significance in India. It is a day to remember a leader who brought about positive and necessary changes in Indian society. His contributions included advancements in education and the empowerment of women, reflecting his progressive vision for the nation.
Celebration of Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti
Similar to Gandhi Jayanti, Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti is a public holiday and one of India’s important national holidays. On this day, people from all walks of life visit his samadhi at Vijay Ghat, New Delhi, to pay their respects by offering garlands and flowers.
Statues of Lal Bahadur Shastri across India are adorned with garlands, flowers and candles. Educational institutional and government offices also participate in the celebrations, organizing various events such as quiz competitors, speeches and more. Students often dress up as Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, keeping their legacy alive in the hearts of the younger generation.
Asian Games 2023, Shooters Prithviraj Tondaiman, Kynan Chenai, Zoravar Singh Sandhu Win Gold Medal In Men’s Trap
Indian shooters continued their medal hunt at the 2023 Asian Games on the final day of the competition in Hangzhou, China Sunday. Prithviraj Tondaiman, Kynan Chenai and Zoravar Singh Sandhu added another gold medal to the tally by shooting the gold medal in the men’s trap event. The Indian triumvirate combined to shoot 361, a new Games record, in the qualifications to finish ahead of silver medallists, Kuwaiti Khaled Almudhaf, Talal Alrashidi and Abdulrahman Alfaihan (359) and host China’s Yuhao Guo, Ying Qi and Yuhao Wang (354), who settled for the bronze.
Kynan Chenai (122) and Zoravar Singh Sandhu (120) have also qualified for the individual final.
So far, Indian shooters have pocketed 21 medals including seven gold. In the last edition of the continental showpiece, India won nine medals (two gold, four silver and three silver).
J&K Achieves 100% Open Defecation Free Plus Model Status
All 6,650 villages of Jammu and Kashmir have been declared Open Defecation-Free (ODF) Plus Model under the Swachh Bharat Mission. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jammu and Kashmir has achieved a status that extends beyond constructing toilets; it encompasses the management of greywater and solid waste in each village.
The Journey to ODF Plus Model
Achieving ODF Plus Model status is not an overnight endeavor but a journey that involves three stages: Aspiring, Rising, and Model. Villages progress through these stages by meeting specific criteria.
When a village demonstrates visual cleanliness with minimal litter, stagnant water, effective solid and liquid waste management, and sufficient information, education, and communication (IEC) activities, it is declared as an ODF Plus Model.
The Role of Coordination
The achievement of this milestone was made possible through coordinated efforts. The rural sanitation department developed a comprehensive plan that involved all stakeholders before its execution. Village Sanitation Saturation Plans (VSSP) were created for each village to ensure that the necessary infrastructure and resources for solid and liquid waste management were available.
Greywater Management
Greywater management, which involves the proper handling of water generated from activities like cooking and bathing, received special attention. Departments at both the household and community levels developed soak pits, magic pits, and leach pits to manage greywater effectively.
Additionally, residents were encouraged to segregate waste and process wet waste in compost pits. The construction of 1,850 waste collection and segregation sheds further ensured proper waste disposal. Furthermore, 536 community sanitary complexes were constructed across Jammu and Kashmir, contributing to improved sanitation.
Plastic Waste Management
A critical aspect of the ODF Plus Model initiative is the management of plastic waste. Plastic Waste Management Units (PWMUs) were established in each block, with some nearing completion. These units will clean, shred, and bail plastic waste for proper disposal. The entire life cycle of waste, from collection to disposal, is being meticulously managed.
Innovative Campaigns and Initiatives
Throughout Phase 2 of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) campaign, Jammu and Kashmir have undertaken numerous innovative campaigns and initiatives to promote cleanliness and sanitation.
These include the introduction of Pink Toilets to improve school attendance, implementing a zero-landfill policy during the Amarnath Yatra, launching the ‘Give Polythene Get Gold‘ campaign, promoting ‘pink societies’ for holistic development, conducting Sarpanch Samvads, offering Swachhata internships, organizing Swachhata quizzes, and hosting the Swachh Yodha Pratiyogita.
A Beacon of Dedication, Collaboration, and Innovation for a Cleaner India
This achievement reflects the dedication of the government, the tireless efforts of various departments, and the active participation of citizens in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation. As the union territory continues to focus on sustainable waste management and innovative campaigns, it sets an inspiring example for the rest of the country in its quest for a cleaner and healthier India.
Asian Games 2023: Tajinderpal Singh Toor Wins Shot Put Gold
At the Hangzhou Asian Games, Tajinderpal Singh Toor of India secured a gold medal in men’s shot put, making him the fourth Indian shot putter in history to successfully retain his Asian Games gold.
Historic Defense of Gold
Tajinderpal Singh Toor became the fourth Indian shot putter to successfully defend his Asian Games gold, following the achievements of Parduman Singh Brar, Joginder Singh, and Bahadur Singh Chouhan, who had previously accomplished this feat.
The Journey to Gold
In his initial attempts, Toor faced setbacks with two throws being ruled out. It wasn’t until his third attempt that Toor managed to register a legal throw, measuring an impressive 19.51 meters. At this point, Saudi Arabia’s Mohamed Daouda Tolo was leading with a best throw of 19.93 meters.
However, Toor quickly turned the tide in his favor with a massive throw of 20.06 meters in his fourth attempt, catapulting himself into the gold medal position. Tolo countered with a throw of 20.18 meters, but Toor saved his best for last, unleashing a monumental 20.36-meter throw in his sixth and final attempt. Tolo’s efforts fell short, and he had to settle for the silver medal.
Setting Records
Toor recently set a new Asian record by propelling the shot put to a remarkable distance of 21.77 meters while clinching gold at the National Inter-State Championships in June. Toor had also qualified for the World Championships but had to withdraw due to the ongoing recovery from the groin injury. He underwent surgery on the left wrist of his throwing arm immediately following the Tokyo Olympics, but his perseverance paid off as he returned to the sport stronger than ever.
Indian Dominance in Shot Put
Shot put has been a domain of Indian excellence for a considerable time, and Tajinderpal Singh Toor’s outstanding performance continues this tradition. India holds the distinction of being the most successful nation in the history of men’s shot put in the Asian Games, with a total of nine gold medals secured in the event across the previous 18 editions of the games.
Lt General Raghu Srinivasan As New BRO Chief
Lieutenant General Raghu Srinivasan assumed the role of the 28th Director General (DG) of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on Saturday. This transition follows the superannuation of Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhry.
Lt Gen Srinivasan’s Distinguished Military Career and Expertise in Border Regions
Srinivasan is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla and the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun, where he was commissioned into the Corps of Engineers in 1987.
His illustrious service record includes participation in key military operations such as Operation Vijay, Operation Rakshak, and Operation Parakram.
One of Lt Gen Srinivasan’s most significant areas of expertise lies in serving along India’s border regions, particularly in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. His extensive experience in these challenging terrains has equipped him with a unique perspective on the infrastructural needs of these regions.
Command and Staff Appointments
Throughout his career, he completed the Defence Services Staff College, Higher Command, and National Defence College courses.
Notable among his assignments are commanding the 58 Engineer Regiment and the 416 Engineer Brigade.
Additionally, he has held important positions such as Deputy Director General of Discipline and Vigilance at the Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army), Commandant of the Bengal Engineer Group & Centre Roorkee, Chief Engineer of the Southern Command, and Assistant Director General at the Engineer-in-Chief Branch at the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army).
The Border Roads Organisation’s Legacy
The Border Roads Organisation was established on May 7, 1960, with the primary objective of securing India’s borders through the development of infrastructure in the remote regions of the north and northeast.
Since its inception, the BRO has made remarkable contributions to this mission, having constructed and dedicated to the nation more than 63,000 kilometers of roads, 976 bridges, six tunnels, and 21 airfields.
In the past year alone, the BRO completed a record-breaking 193 projects across eight border states and three Union Territories, with a total cost of ₹5,400 crore.
Asian Games 2023: Avinash Sable Wins Gold In Men’s 3000m Steeplechase
The Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, China, witnessed a historic moment as Avinash Sable, the Indian steeplechase sensation, secured a gold medal in the 3000m steeplechase event. This remarkable achievement not only made Avinash Sable the first Indian man to clinch gold in this event but also marked a breaking of the previous Asian Games record.
Breaking Records and Making History
Avinash Sable’s exceptional performance shattered the previous Asian Games record in the 3000m steeplechase event. He clocked an impressive time of 8 minutes and 19.50 seconds, surpassing the record set by Iran’s Hossein Keyhani in the Asian Games 2018, which stood at 8 minutes and 22.79 seconds.
A 13-Year Wait Ends
This gold medal is a momentous occasion for Indian athletics as it marks the end of a 13-year-long wait for a gold medal in the steeplechase event. The last time India tasted gold in this discipline was in the Asian Games 2010 when Sudha Singh emerged victorious in the women’s 3000m steeplechase event. Avinash Sable’s triumph has rekindled hope and excitement in the Indian athletics community.
A Quest for More
Avinash Sable’s hunger for success does not stop at his historic gold in the 3000m steeplechase event. He has expressed his determination to continue his winning streak and aim for another gold medal, this time in the 5000m steeplechase event. His unwavering confidence and ambition set the stage for exciting prospects in the world of athletics.
Men’s 200m Event
While Avinash Sable’s triumph took center stage, other Indian athletes also made their presence felt at the Asian Games 2023. In the preliminary rounds of the men’s 200m event, Amlan Borgohain showcased his speed and agility by securing the third spot with a remarkable time of 21.08 seconds. This impressive performance earned him a place in the semifinals.
In the men’s 200m event, qualification for the semifinals is determined by the top three finishers in each heat, as well as the four fastest times among all the participants who did not finish in the top three in their respective heats. Amlan Borgohain’s achievement adds to India’s growing medal tally.
A Glorious Medal Tally
With Avinash Sable’s gold medal in the 3000m steeplechase event, India’s medal tally at the Asian Games 2023 reached a total of 45 medals. Among these, 13 are gold medals, 16 are silver medals, and 16 are bronze medals. This impressive collection of medals reflects the prowess of Indian athletes across various disciplines and showcases India’s rising prominence on the international sporting stage.
‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ Campaign: Highlights Of A Garbage-Free India
The Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) campaign, which kicked off on September 15, reached its culmination on the eve of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. This nationwide initiative, also known as the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign, was led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and garnered widespread participation from citizens across India. The campaign was not just a standalone effort but a precursor to the grand celebration of ‘Swachh Bharat Diwas’ or ‘Swachhta Diwas,’ observed on October 2 each year.
A Call for a Clean India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for cleanliness and sanitation resonated with millions of Indians. The day after concluding the mega cleanliness drive, India observed ‘Swachh Bharat Diwas‘ on October 2, marking the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who was a staunch advocate for cleanliness and sanitation. This special day serves as a reminder of the significance of maintaining cleanliness in our surroundings.
Unity in Cleanliness
The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign witnessed participation from people from all walks of life. It was a moment of unity, where politicians, students, government officials, and ordinary citizens came together to work towards a cleaner India. This collective effort showcased the power of community participation in driving change.
Government and Social Organizations Join the Cause
Various ministries, government departments, and social organizations actively contributed to the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign. Their involvement highlighted the commitment of the government and civil society in promoting the cause of cleanliness and sanitation. This collaboration played a crucial role in spreading awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean environment.
Modi’s ‘Ek Tareekh Ek Ghanta Ek Saath’ Initiative
During the 105th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Modi urged all citizens to join the cleanliness campaign on October 1 under the national initiative ‘Ek Tareekh Ek Ghanta Ek Saath’ (One Date, One Hour, Together). This call to action resonated with people across the country, as they came forward to participate in various cleanliness activities, showing their dedication to Gandhi’s vision of a clean and hygienic India.
Key Takeaways from the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) Campaign:
Campaign Duration: The Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) campaign began on September 15 and culminated on October 1, setting the stage for ‘Swachh Bharat Diwas’ on October 2.
Community Participation: The campaign’s primary objective was to promote community participation and emphasize the importance of a clean village and neighborhood. It underscored sanitation as a collective responsibility that every citizen should uphold.
Theme of SHS-2023: The theme for SHS-2023 was ‘Garbage Free India,’ with a particular focus on visual cleanliness and the welfare of SafaiMitras (sanitation workers). This theme aimed to inspire a cleaner and more hygienic India.
Reflecting on ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’: A Testament to India’s Commitment to Cleanliness and Sanitation
The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign, which culminated on the eve of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary, serves as a testament to the nation’s commitment to cleanliness and sanitation. It is a reminder that collective efforts, led by government initiatives and fueled by the participation of citizens from all walks of life, can lead to a cleaner and healthier India. Gandhi’s vision of a Swachh Bharat (Clean India) continues to inspire the nation to strive for a better and cleaner future.
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