Guiding Principles from Gandhi: The Enduring Influence on Contemporary India
In the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's beliefs of non-violence, truth, and self-reliance, India continues to make significant strides in various sectors. This year, as we commemorate Gandhi Jayanti, marking Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's 155th birth anniversary, we reflect on the nation's progress and its commitment to sustainable development.
Every sector in India is embracing the principles of Make in India, shifting towards local production and manufacturing. This approach boosts the country's overall GDP, demonstrating a strong commitment to self-reliance and economic independence, values that Gandhi championed after India's Independence.
One area where this self-reliance is particularly evident is in the renewable energy sector. The Indian government supports over 5 million biogas plants, primarily in states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. The biogas market, valued at $1.64 billion in 2024, is primarily funded through government schemes under the Swachh Bharat Mission, which aims for 100% scientific waste management.
The Swachh Bharat Mission, launched on Gandhi's birthday in 2014, is a nationwide campaign for cleanliness and hygiene in India. Over the past ten years, it has resulted in the construction of toilets and the progress towards open defecation-free households. The recent Swachhata Hi Seva campaign has yielded notable outcomes in cleanliness across the country.
Moreover, the government is focusing on Sampoorna Swachhata or complete cleanliness, a nationwide mission involving local government bodies, women's groups, youth organizations, and community leaders. This initiative is a testament to Gandhi's emphasis on rural development, a cause he was deeply passionate about.
Modern initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, and others aim to develop rural areas and people, aligning with Gandhi's vision for a self-reliant and sustainable India.
The promotion of Khadi, a hand-woven natural fibre, is another policy backed by the government. Originally started by Gandhi as a form of economic resistance, Khadi is today considered India's linen. The institutionalisation of All India Khadi and Village Industries Board and the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) post-Independence has helped keep the Khadi industry and art of textile making alive.
India's growth in the Global South is notable and rooted in its historical ideologies. The principles of self-reliance, self-rule, sustainability, and rural empowerment, as espoused by Gandhi, are very relevant today and can help India become a global leader while remaining true to its rich cultural heritage.
In the realm of climate action, India has announced the Panch Amrit, with significant initiatives in renewable energy, sustainable mobility, and green hydrogen. The projects focus on urban water and sewage systems, the National Mission for Clean Ganga, and Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plants.
As we celebrate Gandhi Jayanti 2024, it is clear that the principles of Mahatma Gandhi continue to guide India's path towards progress. The SDG India Index 2023-24 reflects this, with India's composite score for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) improving from 57 in 2018 to 71 in 2023-24. Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) is fuelling innovation, local manufacturing, and self-sufficiency as India positions itself as a strong and independent global player.
In conclusion, the spirit of Gandhi Jayanti 2024 is one of hope, progress, and self-reliance. As we honour Mahatma Gandhi's legacy, we are reminded of the importance of staying true to our values and working towards a sustainable and self-reliant future for all.
