SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN

\ SAMVAD

Chaitra Krishna 9, Vik. Samvat 2079, Yugabda 5124: 16 March, 2023: SM4024(For Private Circulation Only)

 1. FESTIVALS: RAM NAVAMI: Ram Navami is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Bhagwan Ram. Devotees celebrate this day by going to mandirs, observing fasts, and seeking Bhagwan Ram’s blessings. This spring festival promotes the idea of the victory of good over evil. The festival celebrates the birth of Vishnu as the Ram - the seventh avatar - to Maharaj Dasharatha and Maharani Kausalya in Ayodhya, Kosala. This festival is a part of the Chaitra Navaratri in the spring, and falls on the ninth day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of Chaitra, 30 March this year.

The day is marked by fasting and Ram Katha recitals. Rathayatras of Ram, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman, are taken out at several places. In Ayodhya, many take a dip in the sacred river Sarayu and then visit the Shri Ram Mandir.
Ram Navami is also celebrated by the Bharatiya diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, Jamaica, other Caribbean countries, Mauritius, Malaysia, Singapore, Fiji and many other countries. -GoTop

2. HEALTH AND EDUCATION SERVICE SHOULD REACH TO ALL: DR. MOHAN BHAGWAT: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarasanghachalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat on March 5 highlighted the importance of education system of ancient Bharat. He said the educational system before the British rule had its importance, but it was ruined after the British implemented their education system. Dr. Bhagwat was speaking during the inauguration ceremony of a multi-speciality hospital at Atam Manohar Jain Aradhana Mandir in Karnal, Haryana.

While addressing the gathering, Dr. Bhagwat said, "Our education system that prevailed before the British rule in Bharat made people self-reliant, but the education system of the British destroyed our education system". Dr. Bhagwat also stressed on the importance of health and education for all and emphasised on the need to improve the health and education system to ensure easy availability of both facilities to common people. Dr Bhagwat said that the ashram had constructed the hospital to serve the society. -GoTop

3. PM MODI PUBLICLY RAISES ISSUE OF VANDALISM OF MANDIRS IN AUSTRALIA : Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese discussed disturbances created by pro-Khalistani outfits in Australia and the later Australian PM assured that his government will be taking all necessary measures to ensure that peace and harmony prevails. "Issues relating to the Indian diaspora in Australia also came up for discussions between the two Prime Ministers of significance in our people-to-people ties, also discussions on disturbances created by pro-Khalistani outfits in Australia," Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra informed this while addressing a press conference on March 10. "Since the last few weeks, news of attacks on temples in Australia are coming regularly. It is natural that such news worries people in India. I have raised these concerns with Prime Minister Albanese who has assured me that the safety of the Indian community is a special priority for him," PM Modi said during India-Australia: Exchange of Agreements and Press Statements on March 10. -GoTop

4. JUNIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD TO SWARA DASARWAR : The Community Champion Awards are an opportunity to say thank you to people who have done something special for their local community and honour those individuals and community groups who have gone above and beyond to support residents throughout West Berkshire during the year. Swara Dasarwar from Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) Bharati Shakha Newbury received the Junior Citizen of the Year Award for 2022, from a list of many other deserved contenders.

The award was presented by the Chairman of the WEST Berkshire Council, Cllr Rick Jones. Swara rasied £1650 for a school project, which clearly stood out from the rest of the candidates. During the summer of 2022, Swara helped set up a Charity Coffee Morning in Newbury Town Hall, where proceeds from this event helped to provide toys and equipment for the pupils at Castle School. The group managed to raise a staggering £1,650. As well as contributing to our wider community, Swara is active within her school as a prefect and gives up her time to support other events within Trinity School. -GoTop

5. SDSS MYANMAR ORGANIZED BLOOD DONATION CAMP: On March 2, Dakshin Vibhag of Sanatan Dharma Swayamsevak Sangh (SDSS) Myanmar organized a blood donation programme. This progrmme was organized in Nursing college of Yangoon.

68 donors donated blood during this camp and more than 130 people participated in the programme. -GoTop

6. HSS CANADA AND USA CONDEMNS THE ATTACKS ON HINDU ORGANISATIONS: The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) and World Sikh Organisation of Canada (WSO) recently released a fallacious report entitled “Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Network in Canada”. The report has been widely criticised for its institutional bias against Hindus, Bharat, and the RSS, as well as its malicious agenda, misinformation, rhetoric, and opinion-based claims.
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh HSS Canada condemned the report which promotes hate and contempt towards all Hindus in Canada. A statement of their website said that the recent vandalism of Hindu mandirs in Canada followed by the recent targeted attack on HSS Canada falls under the umbrella of the growing and continued Hinduphobia events. Over the last three decades HSS Canada has inculcated and produces self-disciplined, self-confident, citizens of Canada who share selfless values of service and leadership. This is evident in the continued and growing contributions of Hindu Canadians in areas of economic growth, education, medical sciences and many more. HSS Canada has requested all well-wishers, media representatives, public officials, educators, and all other Canadians to make note of such organizations who are working to create unrest in Canada and appealed to the Canadian authorities to take immediate action to stop Hinduphobia and Hindu hate.
The report also included false and defamatory statements about HSS USA. In a statement on their website, HSS USA said that the result of such campaigns is creating an environment of hate against Hindus as witnessed by the attacks on Hindu temples (Toronto, New Jersey, and Australia) and Hindu people (Texas, California). HSS USA has expressed concern over the incidences of disinformation and cautioned well-wishers, American lawmakers, public officials etc. to take note of such organisations who create division and an environment of hate. -GoTop

7. HOLI CELEBRATED AROUND THE GLOBE - FEW GLIMPSES: Guyana: A colourful Holi celebration was organised by Bharatiya High Commissioner to Guyana at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground in Guyana by the High Commission of Bharat on March 8. Guyanese Prime Mininister Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Philips, ministers of the diplomatic corps and citizens took part in the Holi celebration.

On this occasion Prime Minister of Guyana, Mark Philips said, “Holi also known as Phagwah is a joyous time that represents spring.” Leicester City celebrates colourful festival of Holi: Like Diwali, Leicester is said to have the largest Holi celebrations outside Bharat. Abbey Mead primary school in the city celebrated by holding a colourful event. Children and parents threw brightly-coloured powder at each other during a celebration on March 8. UAFS Students Celebrate Holi, the Festival of Colors: Festival of Colors, better known as Holi, made an impact right on the UAFS campus in USA on March 8. Neither cold weather nor the threat of rain could stop one of the newest formed Desi Culture Club clubs on campus from celebrating together with their university community.
Thailand : In Pattaya, the ‘Happy Holi Festival of Colours’ took place on 11 March at Central Pattaya Beach Road. In Bangkok, the ‘Holi Festival’ was held on 12 March at Bangkok World, Siam Amazing Park. (TAT).
The Nepalese Hindu community in Fort St. John celebrated by throwing nontoxic coloured powder on each other’s faces, singing sacred songs and eating delicious foods like Sel Roti (typical Nepalese cuisine).
Lakhs of people gather at Basantapur Durbar Square to celebrate Holi in Kathmandu’s Basantpur Durbar Square on March 6.

Murray State celebrates Holi with festival of colors: The Murray State Indian Students Association (ISA) students and staff participated in a Holi celebration on March 11. Rituja Newase is the publicity officer for ISA said the event is an opportunity for students and faculty to learn more about Holi. The annual celebration was held on Murray State’s quad behind Pogue Library. -GoTop

8. BHARATIYA DEGREES TO BE RECOGNIZED IN AUSTRALIA: Bharat and Australia have finalised the 'Education Qualification Recognition Mechanism under which Bhratiya university degrees will be recognised in Australia, and vice-versa. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on March 8 made the announcement saying that his country and the Bharatiya government have finalized the ‘Australia-India Education Qualification Recognition Mechanism’. Australian PM also announced a new the Maitri scholarships for Bharatiya students who want to study in Australia. “The scholarships are part of the wider Maitri programme that seeks to boost cultural, educational and community ties between Australia and India,” Albanese said. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Governor Acharya Devvrat were also present on the occasion. -GoTop

9. BHARATIYA-ORIGIN RAVI CHAUDHARY CONFIRMED ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF US AIR FORCE: The United States Senate on March 15 confirmed Bharatiya origin Ravi Chaudhary as the Assistant Secretary of Air Force for Energy, Installations, and the Environment. Chaudhary won the mandate by a vote of 65-29 as he became a part of one of the top civilian leadership positions in the Pentagon.

After Minneapolis native Chaudhari won the vote, US Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released a statement that read, "Growing up as the son of immigrant parents in Minnesota, Dr. Ravi Chaudhary dreamed of serving our country as an Air Force pilot. From his more than two decades of service as an active duty Air Force officer to his tenure at the Federal Aviation Administration, Dr. Chaudhary has dedicated his career to public service."  -GoTop

10. IT IS BHARAT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO BRING FORWARD“ VALUES OF BUDDHISM”: MINISTER OF STATE MEENAKSHI LEKHI: Minister of State (MoS) External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi on March 14 said, “India is not only the centre of Buddhist philosophy but also of art and culture, so it becomes India’s responsibility to bring forward the values of Buddhism.” Meenakshi Lekhi made the above remarks after the conclusion of the first day of the two-day international conference on “Shared Buddhist Heritage” held in New Delhi with a focus on Bharat’s civilisational connection with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) nations. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy said that today, Bharat on one hand is leading Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) countries and the G20 countries on the other.

Notably, the event, a first of its type, brings together Central Asian, East Asian, South Asian, and Arab countries on a common platform to discuss “Shared Buddhist Heritage” under Bharat’s leadership of SCO (for a period of one year, from September 17, 2022, until September 2023)
The SCO countries comprise Member States, Observer States and Dialogue Partners, including China, Russia and Mongolia. More than 15 scholars and delegates from China’s Dunhuang Research Academy, Kyrgyzstan’s Institute of History, Archaeology and Ethnology, Russia’s State Museum of the History of Religion, Tajikistan’s National Museum of Antiquities, Belarusian State University and Myanmar’s International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University, were presented research papers on the topic during the 2-day event. -GoTop

11. MAHARASHTRA PLANS TO CELEBRATE 350TH ANNIVERSARY OF CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI MAHARAJ'S CORONATION: A museum on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj will be set up at Shivneri Fort, his birthplace, besides a leopard safari that will be started soon, announced deputy chief minister and finance minister Devendra Fadnavis in his budget speech. Around Rs 300 crore will be spent to spruce up Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's forts as part of weeklong 'Shiv Rajyabhishek Mahotsav' celebrations starting from June 2.

It should be reminded that founder of Hindavi Swarajya, ascended the throne at Raigad Fort on June 6, 1674, and became known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Fadnavis also said that the government will set up a 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Theme Park' at Ambegaon, Pune. Public parks with audio-visual media facilities shall be developed in Mumbai, Amravati, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Nagpur to tell the story of the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. As part of the initiative, a leopard safari will be started in Pune while a plan has been approved for Swarajya Rakshak Dharmaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Balidaan Sthal in Tuljapur and at Shirur in Pune. -GoTop

12. BHARAT SAW 11% DIP IN DEFENCE IMPORTS BETWEEN 2013-17 AND 2018-22: According to a report released by the Sweden-based think-tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), "India’s tensions with Pakistan and China largely drive its demand for arms imports. Bharat remains the world’s top arms importer, but its arms imports declined by 11 per cent between 2013–17 and 2018–22. This decline was linked to a complex procurement process, efforts to diversify arms suppliers and attempts to replace imports with local designs". "The decrease can be attributed to several factors including attempts to replace imports with major arms that are designed and produced domestically," the SIPRI stated. -GoTop

13. BHARATIYA ARMY DOCTOR CAPT DEEKSHA, FIRST WOMAN TO BE POSTED AS REGIMENTAL MEDICAL OFFICER-SPECIAL FORCES: Captain Deeksha a doctor in the Bharatiya Army has been posted as a Medical Officer with a Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) battalion.   Captain Deeksha has undergone training with the special force troops and has undergone rigorous training with the special forces operatives.

She is a medical doctor and is trained for special operations as she may be required to provide help to troops during special operations. Medical officers in special forces units have earlier also been closely associated with special operations. -GoTop

14. ASSAM ENTERS GUINNESS BOOK OF WORLD RECORDS FOR 43 LAKH HANDWRITTEN ESSAYS ON LACHIT BORPHUKAN: On March 9, 2023, the Guinness Book of World Records handed a certificate to Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for the largest number of handwritten essays on Lachit Borphukan in Guwahati. These were submitted by the people of Assam and everywhere else in the world. A total of 42,94,350 essays on the Ahom Hero were submitted.

The essays were submitted as part of the 400th Birth Anniversary of Lachit Borphukan after the Assam Government had appealed to the people to pay a tribute to the legendary army commander by writing essays on him as a part of celebrations. Over 57 lakh essays on Lachit Borphukan were submitted during this initiative, but the Guinness World Records considered only the images of the handwritten essays as the title of the record is a photo album of the longest handwritten notes. Therefore, 42,94,350 handwritten essays were considered for this record. -GoTop

15. BIRSA MUNDA HOCKEY STADIUM IN GUINNESS BOOKS: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik received the certificate of recognition from the Guinness Book of World Records for Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela being the world's largest fully seated hockey stadium.

Patnaik received the certificate during the ongoing FIH Pro League tournament at the stadium in Rourkela. The stadium, which is now a benchmark in hockey infrastructure, was built in a record 15 months and has a seating capacity of 20,011 with uninterrupted viewing experience for all. It was recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as the world's largest fully seated hockey stadium adding to the celebration of the Hockey World Cup and bringing immense pride for Bharat and Odisha. -GoTop

16. "OUR COUNTRY IS RICHEST IN STORIES, STICK TO YOUR CULTURE": SS RAJAMOULI'S FATHER, V VIJAYENDRA PRASAD:
SS Rajamouli's 'RRR' scripted history at the 95th Academy Awards by winning the Best Original Song Award. Scriptwriter and Rajya Sabha MP, V Vijayendra Prasad, called it a moment of triumph for the entire film fraternity of Bharat. In an interview Prasad said, "Sometimes my son Rajamouli asks me in what aspects is India the richest in the world. I tell him that our country's richness lies in our storytelling.” Kaala Bhairava, one of the singers of Naatu Naatu, told The Hollywood Reporter that the song was award-worthy because it was "rooted to its nativity". The song already made history in January when it won a Golden Globe for the best original song - a first for Bharat. The same month, it also won the Critics' Choice award for the best song. -GoTop

17. SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN: Pravas: Vishwa Vibhag Samyojak Saumitra Gokhale will be travelling to Hong Kong and Taiwan. Vishwa Vibhag Sah-Samyojak Dr. Ram Vaidya will be travelling to Egypt. Visitors: -GoTop

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Hey Lakshman, even though Lanka is full of wealth, it doesn't give me happiness. Mother and motherland are much greater than heaven. — (Bhagwan Sri Ram in Ramayana) -GoTop

JAI SHRI RAM
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RASHTRIYA SWAYAMSEVAK SANGH
AKHIL BHARATIYA PRATINIDHI SABHA (ABPS) MARCH 2023

The annual meeting of the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS), the RSS’s most important body, concluded on March 14. At a press conference, Sarkaryavah Shri Dattatreya Hosabale informed that an important resolution was passed in view of the RSS’s future endeavours towards national regeneration, even as the annual report was reviewed. This resolution will provide direction to the society as India marches ahead confidently during the ongoing Amrit Kaal and as the RSS approaches its centenary in 2025. At a time when India is taking bold steps on the path to global leadership, citizens need to be vigilant of those looking to impede Bharat’s progress.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the entire society will continue to work to remove all the obstacles coming in the way of the nation's resurgence, Sarkaryavah emphasized. The narrative about the country should change as we march ahead in this Amrit Kaal, and answers to questions pertaining to India should emanate from India only, he added. Distorted history should be replaced by correct history, so that the countrymen can take pride in their heritage. Art, literature and other expressions of creativity should reflect contemporaneity.

In addition to the resolution, three important statements were issued, one each on completion of the 200th birth anniversary of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, the 350th year of the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and the 2550th year of Nirvana of Mahavir Swami. 
The centenary year of the RSS starts from the Vijayadashami of 2025, but the ABPS did not firm up any plan of action for the landmark event. However, the Sabha has chalked out a strategy to expand the Sangh’s footprint, and ramp up its quality of service activity. The Swayamsevaks of Shakhas will study the social realities of villages and settlements, and work towards addressing their problems by involving the local communities. Such experiments and endeavours are already being made, and were discussed in the ABPS meeting, which had started on March 12 in Samalkha’s Pattikalyana-based Seva Sadhna evam Gram Vikas Kendra. 
In the coming months, the RSS will aim to focus on five dimensions of social transformation. These five dimensions include social harmony, family values, ecological conservation, Swadeshi (Bharatiya) conduct, and civic duty. In this regard, he stressed that the aim of this action plan is to strengthen the voice against discrimination in the society and make constant efforts for harmony. In response to a question, he made it clear in unequivocal terms that untouchability is a disgrace to the society, and that the RSS is committed to eradicating it. 
The RSS remains concerned about the prevailing population imbalance, an issue that has found a mention in the Supreme Court also. Former chief election commissioner T.N. Seshan, and Mahatma Gandhi had also talked about this, the Sarkaryawah said, while replying to questions from the journalists. 
On the question of Rahul Gandhi's criticism of the RSS and his statement about democracy being in danger in India, Sarkaryavah said that a senior parliamentarian like him should talk more responsibly. Moreover, those who did not even apologize for the imposing Emergency in the country have no moral right to talk about democracy.
He once again affirmed that the RSS’s idea of Hindu Rashtra envisions a cultural nation, different from the concept of 'State' with geo-political boundaries. When seen from this perspective, there is no doubt that Bharat is a Hindu Rashtra. 
On the question of same-sex marriage, he asserted that the Sangh is of the firm belief that marriage is a sacred ritual that takes place between a man and a woman. This is because the purpose of marriage is the larger interest of the society, and not carnal pleasure.
Bharat’s economy is growing at a rapid pace, its influence and profile is rising in the strategic and diplomatic spheres. At this juncture, the entire society needs to come together and work for achieving all-round development.
There are several forces, both in Bharat and abroad, that want to stop Bharat from moving forward on this path. But, unitedly and with the spirit of ‘Swa’, we shall render these forces ineffective, and ensure Bharat’s rejuvenation and resurgence.

Pratinidhis (representatives) from different Prants (states) of the country brainstormed in the ABPS meeting that lasted for three days. The annual report was presented on the first day of the meeting, which showed that the number of Shakhas has increased from 62,000 to 68,000. By next year, the RSS aims to increase this to one lakh. It was also decided to organize a Parivaar Milan (family get-together) in the Shakhas every three months. Sunil Ambekar, the Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh, Narendra Thakur, and Alok Kumar were also present at the press conference.
Earlier, speaking to the media after the inauguration of the ABPS on March 12, RSS Sah-Sarkaryavah Dr. Manmohan Vaidya informed that the Sangh would complete 100 years of its formation in 2025. Currently, the RSS is working directly at 71,355 places and striving for social transformation. Over the next one year, it aims to expand its direct presence and service activity to about one lakh places across the nation. 
The Sangh’s work and influence saw a big boost after the Covid pandemic in 2020, Dr. Vaidya said at the press conference. In 2020, as many as 62,491 Shakhas were held across 38,913 places, Saptahik Milan (weekly gatherings) at 20,303 places, and Maasik Mandali (monthly meetings) at 8,732 places. In 2023, all these numbers have seen a significant uptick. Currently, 68,651 Shakhas are being organized at 42,613 places, Saptahik Milan at 26,877 places, and Maasik Mandali at 10,412 places. 

From the Sangh’s perspective, the nation has 911 districts, out of which the RSS is working directly and actively in 901 districts.
As many as 1,300 additional Shatabdi Vistaraks (vistaraks during centenary year), besides the regular Pracharaks and Vistaraks, have set out on a 2-year mission to expand the RSS’s work and activities during its centenary year.
The noble thoughts and value systems that emphasize that the whole society of Bharat is one, that all are equal, all are my own, and that I have to give something to the society emanate from the RSS’s Shakhas, Sah Sarkaryavah highlighted.
Such is their dedication that the Swayamsevaks spread RSS’s service activities by taking time out of their daily work and contributing to social change even if it entails spending money from their own pockets. The RSS’s Shakhas are centres for character development. Individuals who attend Shakhas imbibe great values, and later play a critical role in social transformation by awakening nationalist thoughts and taking the society along, he added. 
He informed that the RSS has been able to sharpen its appeal in the society, and now more and more people are getting drawn to it. People are searching for the RSS and seeking to join the nationalist organization through the digital medium. Between 2017 and 2022, the RSS received 7,25,000 applications to join it. Importantly, most of these applicants were aged 20 to 35 years, looking to join the RSS with the aim to serve the society. 
The country’s youth are displaying a keen interest in the RSS’s daily Shakhas as well. Of the total, 60% are Vidyarthi Shakhas (student shakhas). In the last one year, 121,137 youth have received the Sangh’s Prathmik Shikshan. Over the next one year, the RSS aims to hold 109 Shikshan Vargs (training camps), with 20,000 Swayamsevaks likely to participate, he said. 
Elaborating on the Sangh Shikshan (training), Dr. Vaidya said that Swayamsevaks in the age group of 15-40 years participate in the Pratham Varsh Shikshan (first-year training), those in the 17-40 years attend the Dwitiya Varsh, and the Tritiya Varsh is meant for those aged between 25 years and 40 years. The RSS organizes special training camps for Swayamsevaks aged above 40 years. -GoTop

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RASHTRIYA SWAYAMSEVAK SANGH
ABPS RESOLUTION

Let us resolve for resurgence of Rashtra based on ‘Swa’ (Selfhood): The Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS) is of the considered opinion that the prolonged journey of Bharat's ‘Swa’ to realize the noble objective of global wellbeing has always been a source of inspiration for all of us. During the period of foreign invasions and struggle, Bharat’s societal life got disturbed and social, economic, cultural and religious systems were severely mutilated. In this period, under the stewardship of revered saints and great personalities, the entire society preserved its ‘Swa’ while being in continuous struggle.
The inspiration for this struggle was based on the ‘Swa – trayi’ of Swadharm, Swadeshi and Swaraj in which entire society participated. On the auspicious occasion of Amrit Mahotsav of independence, the whole nation gratefully acknowledged the public leaders, freedom fighters and seers who contributed in this resistance.
After independence, we have attained remarkable achievements in many fields. Today, Bharat's economy is emerging as one of the leading economies of the world. The resurgence based on Bharatiya eternal values is being accepted by the world. Bharat is heading towards a role for ensuring global peace, universal brotherhood and human wellbeing based on the conceptual framework of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. 
The ABPS is of the opinion that, in the process of making well organized, glorious and prosperous nation, we need to overcome the challenges of fulfilment of basic needs of all sections of society, opportunities for holistic development and building new models based on Bharatiya concept of modernity through judicious use of technology and eco-friendly development. For rebuilding the nation, we need to make special efforts for achieving the objectives such as strengthening the family institution, creating fraternity based harmonious society and developing entrepreneurship with Swadeshi spirit. The entire society, especially youth, will have to make concerted efforts in this regard. As renunciation and sacrifice were essential for freedom from the foreign rule during the period of struggle; in present times, we need to establish a social life free from colonial mindset and committed to civic duties for realization of abovementioned objectives. In this perspective, the call of ‘Panch Pran’ (five resolves) given by Honourable Prime Minister on Independence Day is significant. 
The ABPS wishes to underscore the fact that while many countries have respect and goodwill for Bharat, some forces in the world are not accepting this Bharatiya resurgence based on its ‘Swa’. These forces opposing Hindutva thought within and outside the country are devising new conspiracies for creating mutual distrust in society, systemic alienation and anarchy by instigating selfish interests and divisiveness. While being vigilant towards all these, we also need to defeat their designs. 
This ‘Amritkaal’ is offering us an opportunity to make collective efforts so that Bharat attains global leadership. The ABPS calls upon the entire society including enlightened people to participate, with full strength, in this endeavour of evolving contemporary systems in all the fields of social life including educational, economic, social, democratic and judicial institutions in the light of Bharatiya thought process, so that Bharat acquires its rightful place on the global stage as a strong, prosperous nation committed to universal wellbeing.  -GoTop

SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN shrivishwaniketan@gmail.com http://svn.epapers.in

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\ SAMVAD

Phalgun Shukla 9, Vik. Samvat 2079, Yugabda 5124: 1 March, 2023: SM4023 (For Private Circulation Only)

 1. FESTIVALS: VARSHA PRATIPADA: Varsha Pratipada or Yugaadi - Pratipada of Shukla Paksha of Chaitra month (22 March this year) - marks the first day of the year (Yugabada 5125) according to the National Calendar of Bharat.  In some parts of Bharat it heralds they new years of Shalivahana Shaka and in some others, the Vikrama Samvat – corresponding to the era beginning 78 CE and 57 BCE respectively. Varsha Pratipada is significant both for its historical import and for the advent of bountiful nature. The day falls in the beginning of spring – Vasanta Ritu – and fills the human spirit with optimism and hope about one’s future and injects into them the courage and confidence in facing the trials and tribulations of life – both individual and national.

The day recalls the inspiring occasions when the invading Shakas were vanquished by emperors Shalivahana and Vikramaditya. The founding of new eras in the names of Vikrama and Shalivahana signifies the supreme importance accorded in the Hindu history and tradition to these events.
The founder of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, was also born on the day of Yugaadi in 1889. -GoTop

2. VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT IS AN ACTIVITY OF SOCIETY : DR. MOHAN BHAGWAT: In the closing session of Akhil Bharatiya Prabhat Gram Vikas Milan at Bhemai village in Rajasthan on February 26, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarasanghachalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat said that village development is an activity of the society and society based development has been the nature of our country.

He noted that Bharat has been a leading country even in the past and while doing development, we worked towards keeping the environment safe. He also said that instead of expecting help from the government, we have to awaken the society to become self-reliant through collective thinking and collective decision making by the people of the village. He observed that the result of such developmental activity comes gradually and therefore, we should work patiently with vision. The three-day workshop was attended by 464 people, including 46 women. The village coordinators gave presentations about the work being done in their respective regions with focus on education, health, culture, self-reliance, harmony, security, agriculture and environment. The participants from all over the country were accommodated in Bhemai and nearby villages.

On February 28, Dr.  Bhagwat performed puja at Maa Vindhyavasini Devi, the presiding deity of Vindhya region in Vindhyachal. Earlier, the RSS chief reached Devraha Baba Ashram on February 27 and had discussions with Hans Baba of the Ashram for two hours. -GoTop

3. SEVA HAS TO BE OFFERED VOLUNTARILY: SURESH JOSHI: Former Sarakaryavah of RSS Suresh (Bhaiyyaji) Joshi said that Seva, or service, is something that cannot be planned and has to be done or offered voluntarily. He was delivering the keynote address on the topic ‘Indian Perspective of Seva’ during ‘Seva Tarang’ — a two-day state-level conference of voluntary organisations organised by Sevavardhini at Mahatma Phule Sanskrutik Bhawan in Wanowarie, Pune on February 11. Citing the Covid period, he said, “This showed that if all work together, we can show the world what the country can do.” A souvenir, comprising the work done by Sevavardhini in the last 25 years, was also released on the occasion. -GoTop

4. ARUNACHAL PRADESH IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF BHARAT: RASHTRAPATI MURMU: On January 21, Rashtrapati  Droupadi Murmu said that Arunachal Pradesh is an important part of Bharat and a major stakeholder in Bhart’s Act East Policy. She was addressing the special session of the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly in Itanagar. She was happy to note that Arunachal Pradesh has the potential to become an attractive investment destination and a hub of trade and business.

She appreciated Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly for maintaining the highest standards of parliamentary democracy and for implementing the ‘e-Vidhan’– paperless digital journey – under the ‘Digital India’ program. She also noted that environment pollution and climate change were important for a geographically sensitive state like Arunachal Pradesh.
Rashtrapati Murmu said that a vibrant system of self-governance and grassroots democracy has existed on the land of Arunachal Pradesh for centuries. The people of this state have actively participated in the modern democratic process as well, which reflect their political consciousness and faith in democracy. -GoTop

5. SHIVAJI MAHARAJ'S BIRTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION HELD AT AGRA FORT: On the occasion of the 393rd birth anniversary of Shivaji Maharaj on February 19, a ceremony (Chhatrapati Shivaji Jayanti) was held at the 'Diwan-E-Aam' of Agra Fort. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath attended the celebrations. Shivaji Maharaj had made a daring escape from the Agra fort where he was kept under house arrest by Aurangzeb. The celebrations were held at Agra Fort for the first time and CM Shinde termed the occasion as historic.

Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi also paid tributes to Shivaji Maharaj and said that his courage and emphasis on good governance inspires us. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was not just a name but an ideology as his inspiring life story taught generations to practise one’s language and religion with pride and be prepared to lay down one’s life in discharging one’s moral duties and defending ‘Swaraj’. Shah made the remarks while addressing the inauguration of the first phase of the theme park ‘Shiv Shrishti’ in Pune. The theme park is based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Born in 1630, Shivaji Maharaj established the Hindavi Swaraj in 1674 against all odds. -GoTop

6. BHARAT WILL NOT ALLOW ITS BASIC BOTTOM LINES TO BE CROSSED :  DR S JAISHANKAR: External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that Bharat is a patient country and does not go around picking up quarrels with others, but it will, at the same time, never allow its “basic bottom lines” to be crossed. He added that we have today the image of the country which is willing to do what it takes to defend its national security. He was addressing the ‘Festival of Thinkers’ organised by the Symbiosis International University at Pune on February 23. Referring to the Ukraine conflict, Dr Jaishankar said that the pressures that came with the conflict were also the moment when our sense of independence and confidence was tested. He touched upon data security and data privacy as the biggest challenges of the digital world, and said that issues connected to them are expected to be addressed during the G20 meeting.
He also said that Bharat is also becoming “the voice of the global south” and that today the international community marvels at how Bharat “managed society, how the country fed people during Covid19 and how money was put in people’s bank account”. -GoTop

7. AFRICAN AMERICAN AND HINDU COMMUNITIES COME TOGETHER TO COMMEMORATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH: On February 18, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh HSS Dallas (McKinney city), and SEWA International, hosted a discussion with four senior African American leaders to commemorate Black History Month. The event aimed to inspire attendees to learn from Black history and create social change through Art, History, and rich Hindu tradition blended with spiritual and cultural blessings.
The session was well attended by a large number of participants across all age groups and covered a variety of topics. Speaker Eric Willis explained how Jazz music is a great example of two diverse communities coming together to create something new and exciting. The audience was impressed to see how this message was blended with the live music played by Eric. The guest speakers were pleased to interact with attendees and appreciated the Hindu concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbhakam - the world is one family’.

All participants strongly believed that such engagements bring together people from different communities to foster a deeper understanding of each other's culture, history, and perspectives and build relationships between communities to create a sense of camaraderie and goodwill. It also promotes a more diverse and inclusive community by strengthening ties between Dharmic organizations and the African American community, possibly leading to future collaboration and partnership.
The event culminated with a visit to the Karya Siddhi Hanuman Mandir. David A. Gethers, founder of ‘Defy The Odds’ said that it was an unforgettable experience for him. Karl Berry, the delegation leader and senior executive director of CCRC said that they found a wonderful new family at the event. -GoTop

8. HEALTH FOR HUMANITY YOGATHON CONCLUDED IN USA: Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh HSS USA concluded the 16th annual Health for Humanity Yogathon, also known as Surya Namaskar Yajna (SNY). SNY is a true confluence of cultures in bringing the ancient and universal wisdom from the Indic traditions to the land that is known as the ‘melting pot’ of cultures.

Over this 16-day long program, more that 13 thousand enthusiasts around the country actively performed Surya Namaskars. These included school children and their teachers, university students, women, and seniors from all walks of life. Schools around the country have been particularly interested in this program, as it provides their students exposure to Yoga and its overall benefits. Several medical professionals, U.S. senators, governors, state representatives, and mayors have recognized the program and the organization behind it. -GoTop

9. HINDU SWAYAMSEVAK SANGH CELEBRATED MAKAR SANKRANTI IN SYDNEY: Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) New South Wales (NSW) Vibhaag conducted a programme to celebrate the auspicious festival of Makar Sankranti. The event was organized at Holroyd Gardens in the suburb of Merrylands and was attended by hundreds of swayamsevaks across Sydney Mahanagar. The Swayamsevaks were addressed by Shri Pranav Agarwal, Samparka-Pramukh NSW Vibhaag.

He emphasised the importance of this festival in spreading brotherhood and harmony in the society and acknowledging the need to recalibrate our behaviour to changing times as seen in Prakriti. Zonal samparka-pramukh Shri Ramyavaran also attended the utsav along with many other HSS Australia karyakartas. -GoTop

10. 20,000 TAKE PART IN SINGAPORE'S OLDEST HINDU MANDIR’S CEREMONY: Undeterred by heavy rains, around 20,000 people joined Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to mark the restoration and consecration of the country's oldest Hindu Mandir, built nearly 200 years ago by early Bharatiya migrants. The Sri Mariamman Mandir, a national monument, was unveiled to the public on February 12 after a year-long restoration that involved 12 specialist sculptors and seven metal and wood artisans from Bharat who worked on the sanctums, domes and ceiling frescoes. The mandir's original colour scheme and structure have been retained. The one-year restoration was led by Chief Sculptor Dr K Dakshinamoorthy who is also the restoration advisor to the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments of Tamil Nadu.

Minister for Communications and Information Josephine Teo who participated in the event said that the mandir has become very much part and parcel of the local community. Devotees thronged the streets surrounding the mandir in Chinatown to witness the milestone, the sixth consecration ceremony, also known as the Maha Kumbabishegam, held every 12 years. The ceremony will be followed by Mandalabishegam — 48 days of religious rituals and cultural programs. -GoTop

11. EARTHQUAKE RELIEF ACTIVITY BY SEWA INTERNATIONAL: With the combined efforts of the partner organizations like Sewa Canada, Sewa Europe, DSV Global Transport, and Sewa USA, Sewa International (SI) has begun direct relief operations in Syria and Turkey following the recent earthquake that has caused enormous devastation and destruction. More than 21,000 people have been confirmed dead in the region. In cooperation with the Turkish Ministry of Disaster and Emergencies, SI is distributing food to the survivors at the Syrian border.

SI is working with its partner organization Food For Life (FFL). On February 12, the FFL volunteers from Hungary reached Antakya, the capital of Hatay province in the southernmost part of Turkey, with a large truck filled with food and other essential supplies and started relief work in three villages near Antakya. They are serving 800 to 1200 meals to the needy every day. According to the United Nations, the quake might have left over 5.3 million homeless, and nearly 900,000 earthquake victims are hungry and need food in these countries. -GoTop

12. BHARATIYAS IN AUSTRALIA DEMAND STRICT ACTIONS AGAINST VANDALISATION OF HINDU MANDIRS: In January 2023, several Hindu mandirs were vandalised in different parts of Australia allegedly by Khalistan supporters. These included the Shri Shiva Vishnu Mandir in Carrum Downs, ISKCON Mandir in Melbourne and BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Mill Park. The Bharatiya community in Australia condemned the vandalism of Hindu mandirs and demanded strict action against the perpetrators.

A Bharatiya in Sydney, while speaking to media, said that he expected the government to take appropriate actions against this. Another Bharatiya said that he was angry, scared and dismayed by the blatant display of religious hatred towards the peaceful Hindu community. Bharat  had condemned the vandalisation of Hindu mandirs in Australia and said that the matter has been raised with the Australian government in Canberra and asked for expeditious investigation against the perpetrators. -GoTop

13. BHARAT SAVED OVER 3.4 MILLION LIVES BY NATIONWIDE VACCINATION: STANFORD UNIVERSITY: Bharat was able to save more than 3.4 million lives by undertaking a nationwide Covid-19 vaccination campaign at an unprecedented scale, said a report by Stanford University. The Covid vaccination campaign yielded a positive economic impact by preventing a loss of USD 18.3 billion, said the working paper by Stanford University and Institute for Competitiveness titled ‘Healing the Economy: Estimating the Economic Impact on India’s Vaccination and Related Issues’.

Analysts also say that Bharat was able to save about one lakh (0.1 million) lives due to timely lockdown in March-April 2020.
Moreover, Bharat took around 175 days to reach the peak from its first 100 cases while most countries reached their first peak in less than 50 days (Russia, Canada, France, Italy, Germany, etc.), the report said.
The paper discusses the role of containment as a measure to prevent the spread of the virus. It highlights that, as against the top-down approach, a bottom-up approach was critical in containing the virus. -GoTop

14. HYDERABAD HAS MAXIMUM USFDA APPROVED PHARMA UNITS IN WORLD: Hyderabad, which has emerged as a key global hub in life sciences, is home to the largest number of US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) approved companies in the world.
Telangana Industries, Commerce, and Information Technology Minister K.T. Rama Rao said on February 21 that with 214 units certified by the US drug administrator, Hyderabad is far ahead of New Jersey, which stands second with 189 USFDA approved units. He said that the state government would make efforts for setting up of USFDA office in the Hyderabad.

He also said the Telangana government has set the ambitious goal of doubling the size of the life sciences sector to $100 billion by 2028. It is also looking at increasing the workforce to 8 lakhs from the current 4 lakh employees.
Currently, 9 billion doses of vaccines are made in Hyderabad annually and next year, this is likely to go up to 14 billion. At present, Hyderabad accounts for 35 percent of the global vaccine production, and next year the city’s contribution is expected to increase to 50 percent. -GoTop

15. BHARAT REMAINS THE WORLD’S 3RD LARGEST TECH STARTUP ECOSYSTEM GLOBALLY: According to a National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom) report released in partnership with Zinnov on February 15, Bharat added more than 1,300 active digital companies in the last year, taking the country’s total to 25,000–27,000. After the USA and China, Bharat remains the world’s third largest tech startup ecosystem globally. With more than 23 added in CY2022, the nation added the second-highest number of unicorns in the world.

According to the report, the potential pipeline of unicorns increased simultaneously to over 170, expanding at a pace similar to 2021. Despite the challenges, annual investments were higher than pre-pandemic levels of $13.1 billion in 2019 at $18.2 billion, even though total funding in CY2022 decreased by 24 percent over 2021.
According to the report, tech startups are expected to keep increasing innovation and deep-tech adoption, particularly in sectors related to the SDGs that require complex solutions.  -GoTop

16. TEJAS PARTICIPATED IN UAE INTERNATIONAL AIR EXERCISE: For the first time, Bharat’s indigenously-made light combat aircraft Tejas participated in an international multilateral air exercise called Exercise Desert Flag VIll, being organised in the UAE from February 27 to March 17. This is a significant development as it reflects Bharat’s increasing efforts at showcasing indigenously built fighter aircraft on the world stage.

The air show kicked off at Al Maktoum airport in Dubai. The show was inaugurated by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai inaugurated the airshow. The IAF Tejas LCA Squadron No. 18, also known as ‘Flying Bullets’, presented an aerial demo at the opening ceremony. The other members of the contingent include 5 ALH Dhruvs (Sarang Team), 10 Hawk 132s (Suryakiran Team), and one each of the C-17 and C-130J. Bharat is also set to showcase indigenously developed drones by the Skye Company at the air show.
The Bharatiya Vayu Sena said that the LCA Tejas and Sarang Helicopter Display Team showcased “superior flying skills” at the Dubai Air Show. -GoTop

17. ISRO RECEIVES TEST CREW MODULE FOR HUMAN SPACE MISSION GAGANYAAN: On February 24, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) received the first simulated crew module (SCM) structure assembly for the first test flight of its human space mission - Gaganyaan. 
In a tweet, ISRO said: "Today, ISRO received Simulated Crew Module (SCM) Structure Assembly for the Gaganyaan project. This first indigenous SCM is developed by VSSC (Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre) and realized by Manjira Machine Builders Pvt Ltd., Hyderabad."

According to the ISRO, the SCM that was delivered was an unpressurised crew module. It simulates the shape, outer mold line and interfaces of major systems like parachute systems and pyros of the actual crewed mission configuration. 
The SCM will be used in test rocket missions to validate crew escape system and other subsystems. "Actual Crew Module is a pressurised capsule that accommodates the astronauts during the Gaganyaan mission," ISRO added. The space agency plans to fly a test rocket later this year. -GoTop

18. IN A FIRST, BHARATIYA NAVY SUBMARINE DOCKS IN INDONESIA: In a first, a Bharatiya submarine docked in Indonesia on February 22 in an attempt to strengthen bilateral relations as part of diplomatic-military outreach to ASEAN countries.

“To strengthen the bilateral relations, the Indonesian Navy warmly welcomes the arrival of the Indian submarine INS Shindukesari in Jakarta,” the Indonesian Navy tweeted. 
The Bharatiya navy said that it had highly enriching engagements with Indonesian Navy during the port call. It also said that it was a moment to strengthen maritime partnership between Bharat and Indonesia towards a safer and secure Indo-Pacific. The navy vessel remained in Indonesia from February 22 to 24. 
The 3,000-tonne conventional diesel-electric submarine INS Sindhukesari has become the first Bharatiya submarine to dock in Jakarta as part of its first operational turnaround. -GoTop

19. SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN: Pravas: Vishwa Vibhag Samyojak Saumitra Gokhale will be returning to Bharat for the ABPS after pravas of Indonesia and Thailand. Visitors: Rajendra Kelkar - USA

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: The more we come out and do good to others, the more our hearts will be purified, and God will be in them. — Swami Vivekananda. -GoTop

JAI SHRI RAM
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REMEMBERING NANAJI DESHMUKH: THE SAINT WHO ACTUALIZED: ANTYODAYA THROUGH GRAMODAYA

We are not for ourselves but for those who are exploited and vulnerable.” Nanaji Deshmukh said and lived his entire life by this motto. Today marks the 11th death anniversary of Nanaji who was an able organiser, thinker, revolutionary and social architect (Samaj Shilpi). He made successful efforts to implement the ideas of Gandhi’s Gram Swaraj, Deendayal’s Antyoday and JP’s Sarvodaya through Gramodaya.

SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN shrivishwaniketan@gmail.com http://svn.epapers.in

Labels: Samvad: 1 March 2023

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