Gandhiji’s vision of Self-reliant villages can become a reality when Atmanirbhar Bharat Mission, introduced by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, becomes a mass movement. This was the thrust of deliberations at the webinar on “Gandhi and self-reliant India” organized by Press Information Bureau Kohima and Field Outreach Bureau, Kohima on 17 September.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Temjensosang, Director, Centre for Gandhian Studies and Research, Nagaland University, said that the entire life of Gandhiji was dedicated for the upliftment of the poor. He said that it is disheartening to note that a significant part of our rural population still lives below the poverty line and this year with Covid19 pandemic situation, the condition does not look rosy for them. The social and economic structure of the country adds to their misery, he noted. Given this reality, he said, it is important that the Atmanirbhar Bharat Mission becomes a mass movement so that our villages get freedom from economic deprivation. The revival of village industries and rural development is key to the progress of our nation, he said.

In his address, Abhishek Dayal, Director, Press Information Bureau, Imphal said that many of the recent major policy decisions, not only various aspects of Atmanirbhar Bharat and National Education Policy, have a deep connect with basic tenets of Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings. He added that we must not forget that his central message was to work for the poorest person in the country and strive for a just and happy society. He called upon the media to use their platforms to hold wider debates and discussions and engage people on Gandhian philosophies and ideas.

K. Sonikumar Singh, Assistant Director, PIB Kohima welcomed the participants saying that PIB is hosting a series of webinars on key issues facing society to bring the media persons, officials and experts on one platform for the benefit of all stakeholders. In his vote of thanks, P. Sophie, FEO, FOB, Kohima said that it would be a befitting homage to the father of our nation if we can implement his teachings into our daily life.

The webinar was attended by over 30 officials of seven states of the North East Zone, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, members of the media and Gandhian experts.