As part of the grand celebration of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ the Union government has launched the inspiring ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign. This campaign is dedicated to creating a beautiful garden along the Kartavya Path in Delhi, symbolizing the deep connection every Indian has with their motherland. The campaign incorporates events at various levels, starting from panchayats to the national level, to involve citizens from every nook and corner of the country in this significant endeavor.
Honoring the Supreme Sacrifice – Installation of Memorial Plaque
The heart of the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign lies in paying homage to those who made the supreme sacrifice for our nation’s freedom and security. The campaign aims to install a memorial plaque (shilaphalakam) at the garden site in Delhi, bearing the names of freedom fighters, defense personnel, and police officers who laid down their lives for the country. This poignant gesture reminds us of the price paid for our independence and the importance of safeguarding our nation’s integrity.
Pledging Our Commitment – Taking a Solemn Oath
In the spirit of solidarity, citizens across the country participate in the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign by taking a solemn pledge at the memorial site. This pledge affirms their unwavering commitment to the country and its ideals. The act of pledging fosters a sense of responsibility and devotion towards the nation, inspiring individuals to contribute positively to society and strive for a prosperous and united India.
Empowering Local Communities – Execution through MGNREGA
The campaign ensures the active involvement of local communities in creating the garden along the Kartavya Path. The ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ initiative leverages the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to execute the project. By utilizing local materials and resources, the campaign promotes community empowerment and local economic development. It serves as a testament to the spirit of self-reliance and cooperation that our great leaders envisioned for India.
Renewing Mother Earth – ‘Vasudha Vandhan’
At the heart of this campaign is the core belief that our connection to the land must be nurtured and preserved for future generations. To achieve this, the campaign introduces the ‘Vasudha Vandhan’ initiative, where every gram panchayat or village pledges to plant 75 saplings of indigenous species and create an Amrit Vatika. This renews our bond with “Mother Earth” and emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship in the pursuit of a sustainable future.
Felicitation of Heroes – ‘Veeron Ka Vandan’
The ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign is not just about remembering our history but also about honoring the heroes of the present. The initiative includes ‘Veeron Ka Vandan,’ where freedom fighters and families of deceased freedom fighters, along with retired defense and police personnel, and families of those who lost their lives in the line of duty, are felicitated. This expression of gratitude acknowledges the sacrifices made by these brave individuals and their families in safeguarding our nation.
The Journey of Unity – Collecting Soil from Every Corner
To symbolize the unity and diversity of India, young volunteers and other citizens actively participate in the campaign by collecting soil from every panchayat and village. This sacred ‘Mitti Kalash’ is then brought to the block, where a ceremony marks the beginning of its journey to Delhi. The act of collecting soil from all corners of the country reinforces the idea that the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign is a collective effort by every Indian, regardless of regional differences.
Inclusive Urban Participation
The ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign is not limited to rural areas but is also extended to urban locales. Events are organized at various urban local bodies, including notified area councils, Cantonment Boards, town panchayats, municipalities, and municipal corporations. This inclusive approach ensures that citizens from urban areas can equally participate and contribute to the grand vision of honoring our motherland.