‘Meri Mati Mera Desh’ Campaign at PCDA (SC), Pune to Honor Martyred Braveheart Men and Women

Pune, 10th August 2023: The ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign, a significant initiative under the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, was observed at the Office of PCDA (SC) Pune on August 9, 2023. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr Rajeev Chavan, IDAS, ndc, Pr.CDA (SC), Pune, who served as the chief guest for the occasion. All 29 sub-offices participated in the mega show, and more than 80 sub-offices joined through video conferencing from various parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa.

This initiative was recently announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 103rd edition of Mann Ki Baat, broadcast on July 30, 2023, to honor the brave freedom fighters and individuals who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence and to commemorate their immense contributions towards freeing India from foreign yoke and shackles.

Suhana Arif, AAO, the coordinator, and convener of the auspicious ceremony, welcomed the chief guest with a floral bouquet. The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the lamp (Deep Prajwalan) in the central hall by Dr. Rajeev Chavan, IDAS, ndc, Pr.CDA(SC), Pune, along with other esteemed IDAS officers, including BS Kamble IDAS, Jt CDA, Smt Sunalani Boid, IDAS, DCDA, M Venkat Rao, IDAS, ACDA, and other senior accounts officers.

An “Oath” (Shapath) followed, administered through the Panch Pran pledge. This pledge, delivered in Hindi by Madhu Gandhi, SAO, and in English by Suhana Arief, AAO, reaffirmed the sincere commitment to building a Developed India by 2047, shedding the mentality of subjugation, embracing cultural heritage, upholding unity, fulfilling civic responsibilities, and showing respect to our defenders.

During his keynote address, Chief Guest Dr. Rajeev Chavan, IDAS, ndc, PCDA (SC), Pune, paid homage to all the martyrs and brave hearts who sacrificed their lives for the great national cause of gaining freedom and independence. He urged everyone to work towards making India ‘Atmanirbhar’ in the true sense and spirit, reducing dependency on other nations. He also emphasized refraining from any form of discrimination, inequality, violence, or hatred, reminding the audience about the intrinsic value, traditions, norms, and customs of the diverse nation.

He encouraged the audience to keep the spirit of brotherhood and nationalism alive in their hearts and to perform acts that forge bonds of kinship, friendship, and comradeship among all. He highlighted that the “Meri Maati Mera Desh” campaign is a novel initiative of national importance and regional significance aimed at instilling patriotism and developing a national spirit.

To mark the occasion, PCDA (SC), Pune unveiled transformative initiatives, including renaming the existing ‘Lotus Garden’ as ‘Amrit Vatika,’ symbolizing rejuvenation and growth. The compound wall will be painted with multiple colors on the theme of Independence by local art school artists in Pune. Murals, statues, and frescoes will also be installed.

The campaign aims to honor national heroes through initiatives such as the establishment of memorial plaques, murals/frescos, and “Shilaphalakams” paying homage to freedom fighters and security forces. The “Vasudha Vandan” and “Veeron ka Vandan” initiatives will unite the nation through soil collection from all over the country, which will be placed at the newly created ‘Amrit Vatika.’

PCDA (SC), Pune, championed environmental conservation, advocating for the protection and preservation of the ecosystem. The Chief Guest encouraged everyone to hoist the Tricolor at their homes as part of the “Har Ghar Tiranga” initiative, promoting devotion, commitment, and dedication to making India a vibrant superpower.

The event concluded with a ceremony at “Amrit Vatika,” where statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar were garlanded before a spirited photo session. As part of environmental protection efforts, 75 saplings will be planted across five locations in Pune city by the families of DAD employees.
The program concluded with Madhu Gandhi extending heartfelt gratitude and an “Amrit Thal” lunch, embodying the essence of unity and camaraderie.