Surmai Sham at Virsa Vihar Jalandhar – A Musical Extravaganza of Filmy Songs

 

Surmai Sham at Virsa Vihar Jalandhar – A Musical Extravaganza of Filmy Songs

Virsa Vihar, a hub of cultural activities in Jalandhar, hosed ‘Sumai Sham – Musical Evening’ of filmy songs on March 21. It was a lively and lovely evening of to enjoy the songs mostly of yesteryears from the local talent available in plenty. Courtesy Vice President of the
Virsa Vihar, Sangat Ram and his colleagues at the Sur-Sangam, an affiliate of Virsa Vihar, I also participated in the event as a guest of Honour. I can say with a great sense of satisfaction that it provided me a perfect platform to relax and unwind in these days of hassle and running around.

The function was presided over by a renowned Music Guru, Dr. Arun Misra and a great personality of Jalandhar in the field of business, socio-cultural life and journalism, Shital Vij of the Dainik Savera as the Chief Guest and IPS officer - DIG, Inderbir Singh, himself an accomplished singer as the Special Guest. From this only, one can

easily make out the scale and status of the function which was aptly and skillfully, as usual, was anchored and steered by Sangat Ram, a son of the soil and and highly recognized and acclaimed personality in the socio-cultural landscape of Jalandhar and beyond. His poetic (Shayrana) interjections in the programme were appropriate, appreciative and commendable. He was ably assisted by an accomplished musical performer herself, Seema Bhagat.

The more was yet to come which made the evening a great event. The corps of singers comprising both of accomplished and trained performers was led by Major General (Retired) Lakhwinder Singh Vohra, DIG Inderbir Singh, Dr. Lata of LPU, Naresh Dhiman, Ramesh Mudgil of Sur- Sangam, Bindu Kohli, Rakesh Shantodoot, Raman Bhardwaj with new enthusiasts like Dr. Mohan Mehmi, Raj Kumar Ahir among others. The hit songs of good old days – Tum Agar Sath Dene Ka Bada Karo – Milti Hai Zindgi Mein Muhabat Kabhi Kabhi  - Tumhi Mere Mandir Tumhi Meri Pooja Tumhi Devta Ho and many more ever-green numbers really made the evening Surmai Sham. The only duet sung by Inderbir and Lata stole the show.

Knowing well that I am not a singer yet Sangat Ram ji was kind enough to invite me to the rostrum not only to honour me but also address the discerning audience of music lovers. It was indeed a pleasure for me. Expressing my naivety to sing, I took shelter under the Urdu poetic expression and appreciating the available singing talent present said – Na Alfaze Hamdo Sana Janta Hoon;Na

Dilchasap Tarze Adda Janta Hoon. Some of renditions were so touching that, while listening many a times, I had tears in my eyes which I covered with a famous couplet of Mirza Galib – Ragon Mein Dodne Phirne Ke Hum Nahin Qayal; Jo Ankh Hi Se Na Tapka Lahu Kya Hai. I concluded my brief remarks with greetings on the Eid, Navrattri and Navroz and recited a thought provoking Nazam of Allama Iqbal – Naya Shivala which is as relevant today as it were before – the last couplet of the Nazam spells the need of the hour –

Shakti Bhi Shanti Bhi Bhakton Ke Geet Main Hai

Dharti Ke Bashion Ki Mukti Preet Mein Hai

 

West Asia Crisis – India can play a sobering role

 

West Asia Crisis – India can play a sobering role

It is three weeks for the ongoing West Asia crisis which has already become a regional conflict with a potential to expand with global ramifications. The spokesperson of MEA has rightly said, ‘It has been testing time, not just for us, but for entire global community.’ The conflict in India’s extended neighborhood with which we have historic and civilizational relations, where more than 10 million
Indians are living for their bread and butter that remit considerable amounts back home, from where India sources a large volumes of energy needs, Iran’s geo-strategic importance for security and connectivity, adversely affect not only its economy but also energy security and also spirituous-cultural bonds; India being a second largest Muslim population in the world. Obviously, India has a firm stake in regional stability, safe transit and uninterrupted supply chains. The West Asian Crisis tends to negate all this which in turn is a matter of concern and worry not only to India but to the entire world.

 Though in the beginning, it was felt, India took a somewhat lop-sided approach to stand with US and Israel ignoring its civilizational and strategically important relations with Iran. But with the fast changing scenario, India, it seems, has come around to resort to the dictum of ‘Strategic Autonomy’ with a pragmatic approach to contain and end the conflict. As the conflict continues to evolve and tend to

expand, India’s approach should be of a careful balancing act — maintaining engagement with all sides while advocating restraint, de-escalation and a return to diplomacy as the only sustainable pathway out of the crisis. For India, whose stakes in the region are vast—ranging from heavy energy dependence to a large expatriate community and expanding diplomatic partnerships—such turbulence inevitably tests the resilience and coherence of its foreign policy. A Security and Defense Analyst, Harsh Pant of Observer Research Foundation (ORF)has written in one of his articles on the subject - India's Strategic Balancing in the Middle East which explains the Indian position in its perspective, “For several decades, India has pursued a strategy that can best be described as calibrated multi-alignment. Rather than locking itself into rigid blocs, New Delhi has cultivated parallel relationships with Iran, the Gulf monarchies, Israel, and the US. This diplomatic balancing act has often been portrayed as difficult to sustain, yet moments of crisis tend to demonstrate its enduring logic. The present conflict is no exception. India’s response has been measured and deliberate: urging restraint from all sides, safeguarding its economic interests, and maintaining open channels with every actors involved. In doing so, New Delhi has sought to protect both its strategic autonomy and its long-term interests in the region.”

India’s Middle East policy is gradually maturing. The region is no longer viewed merely through the lens of energy imports but as a complex strategic landscape where economic, political, and security interests intersect. The resent crisis reinforces the value of maintaining diverse partnerships and flexible diplomacy. India has

attempted to strike a diplomatic posture of cautious neutrality. New Delhi has emphasized restraint, dialogue, and the need to avoid further escalation. Such positioning allows India to remain engaged with all parties while avoiding the perception of alignment with any particular camp. In a region where rivalries are deeply entrenched, this balanced posture enhances India’s credibility as a responsible stakeholder rather than a partisan actor. It seemed in the start that India had faltered in, seemingly, aligning with the US and Israel particularly not sending a condolence message to Iran on the assassination of their Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In the fourth week of the conflict, if I go by the information and news available in the public domain, no early end to the ongoing crisis is insight. The staggering costs of the war is not only telling on the economy of the US and Israel and also of Iran but also of the entire world. The oil and gas importing countries like India are impacted greatly resulting in upsetting the entire spectrum of their national interests. It was reported that by now US had lost military hardware to the tune of more than 250 billion in the ongoing conflict. There is wide spread devastation in Israel, Iran, Lebanon and also in the Middle East. The conflict has to end immediately.

India needs to be proactive in this regard with credible credentials of policy of ‘Multi-alignment’ and of ‘Strategic Autonomy’ and also of ‘Multi-polar World’. It is a matter of gratification to note that Indian leadership is not oblivious of the emerging ground realities and is in touch with their counterparts and interlocutors not only with the countries directly involved in the conflict that is the US, Israel and

Iran but also countries of the Middle East which has become the theater of the conflict with Iran’s specific and strategic approach and policy to attack US bases in these neighboring countries which was not expected, it seems, by the US and Israel and other stakeholders. It goes without saying that any effort and approach to end the war needs support and understanding of Russia and China.

As the conflict is getting fierce by the every passing day, immediate action to engage not only the varying parties at war but also all the West Asian countries particularly of the Arabian Gulf and also major centers of power like Russia and China is required. As suggested by countries like Finland and others, India is considered and seems to be an acceptable mediator and interlocutor for the purpose.  India is in

touch with the countries of the Middle East on one side and also of Iran on the other bilaterally and also s the rotating Chair of the BRICS. Though the rhetoric of boastful statements by the US, Israel and Iran is in the air yet, it seems, all the actual players are tired and want to end the conflict. India should, with a view to pursue its own interest of securing its energy security and regional peace in the immediate future, raise its hand to help and facilitate early end to the hostilities through diplomatic dexterity and strategy. Obviously, as it is said in Punjabi – Chor Nu Maran To Changa Onnu Bhajaona (It is better to make the rouge flee rather than beating him).  US, it seems, require a safe passage to leave with perceived victory. Similarly, Iran would be interested in ending the conflict with the respect and dignity. President of Iran, in his telephonic talk with PM Narendra Modi and Iranian FM in his conversation with

EAM Jaishankar have already spelled out the broader parameters of ‘New West Asia Security Framework’ of ending the conflict. With India’s calibrated but proactive diplomatic outreach, PM Modi had stressed restraint, dialogue and the protection of civilians. The Iranian side, said to have given three key proposals: i) creation of a regional security architecture led by West Asian nations without external interference; ii) immediate halt to ongoing military actions by the US and Israel along with guarantees against their recurrence; and iii) call for BRICS (under India’s current rotating presidency) to play an independent role in stopping hostilities and ensuring regional and global stability. Iran is also willing willingness to engage in dialogue and verification mechanisms regarding its nuclear programme, while rejecting allegations that it sought to develop nuclear weapons.

With this, it seems, India has a definite sobering role to play in ending the West Asian Crisis before it gets late – diplomacy and dialogue is the only way. But two things remain to be addressed i) It is time to clip the wings of Israel who has increasing acted as a ‘super-cop’ in the region. It must be done forthwith – the sooner the better. The willful and mindless assassinations of political, military and intellectual leadership in Iran should be treated as ‘war crimes’ and dealt with accordingly. In the proposed new West Asia dispensation, both Palestine and Israel should be recognized as two nations to hit the problem in its head and ii) UNO, a toothless digger which has outlived its utility and relevance, should be disbanded forthwith. A new International Institution needs to be established in commensuration with the new emerging realities to address the issues of peace and security and also equitable world order.

India, the land of Buddha and Gandhi, should register the message of peace and harmony midst the solemn festivities of Eid, Navrattri and Navroz as Allamah Iqbal asserted in one of his poetic deliveries:

हुवैदा आज अपने ज़ख़्म-ए-पिन्हाँ कर के छोड़ूँगा

लहू रो रो के महफ़िल को गुलिस्ताँ कर के छोड़ूँगा

I will surely exhibit all my hidden wounds today
I will surely change assembly to a garden with blood‐mixed tears

जलाना है मुझे हर शम-ए-दिल को सोज़-ए-पिन्हाँ से

तिरी तारीक रातों में चराग़ाँ कर के छोड़ूँगा

I have to light every heart’s candle with hidden pathos
I will surely create bright illumination in your darkness

 

 

 

Ongoing West Asia Crisis – An Expert Talk at DAV College Jalandhar

 

Ongoing West Asia Crisis – An Expert Talk at DAV College Jalandhar

On invitation of the Political Science Department of DAV College Jalandhar, my alma mater, I delivered an informal but interactional talk on the topical subject of the ongoing crisis in West Asia in the wake of the war among US, Israel on side and Iran on the other. It was a matter of satisfaction that it was
a well-attended talk by the audience comprising of young students and the interested faculty members. While I post here a report on the function prepared by Dr. Dinesh Arora as conveyed in a Press Note, I take this opportunity to thank Principal Anoop Vatts and Prof. Dinesh Arora for the excellent arrangement and the kind hospitality extended to me.

The Postgraduate Department of Political Science under the aegis of Political Science Forum organised an Expert Talk on the theme “Ongoing West Asia Crisis: Emerging Trends in World Politics” on March 13, 2026. Ambassador Ramesh Chander IFS (Rtd) having a long experience of diplomatic and foreign affairs was the keynote speaker.   As per the traditions of the College the programme began with the recitation of DAV

Gaan. The ceremonial start reflected the institutions commitment to its values and great heritage.  After the recitation, the Keynote Speaker was accorded a Green Welcome by presenting a planter as a symbol of respect, sustainability and goodwill. As a mark of honour and gratitude, a token of appreciation was also presented to the Keynote Speaker in the form of a Shawl and memento. 

Introductory Address: In the Introductory Address Dr. Dinesh Arora, Head Department of Political Science highlighted the importance of Expert Talk on the theme “Ongoing West Asia Crisis: Emerging Trends in World Politics.” He emphasized that in the present age of globalization, events taking place in one part of the world inevitably affect almost all countries in one way or another. The ongoing conflict in West Asia started with

the attack of US-Israel on Iran on February 28, 2026, has already begun to impact nations across the globe in political, economic, and strategic ways. He pointed out that an Expert Talk was organized with the objective of making students and faculty aware about the ongoing West Asia Crisis, its causes, consequences and the emerging trends in world politics. The programme aimed to provide a deeper understanding of the geopolitical developments in the region and their implications for global peace and security. He remarked that to gain deeper insights into the complex contemporary situation, we are fortunate to have with us an experienced former diplomat Shri Ramesh Chander Ji, who could provide valuable perspectives based on his vast experience in international affairs. He also expressed his sincere gratitude to the Principal Dr. Anoop Kumar for providing the opportunity to organize this programme. He encouraged the students to make the most of the opportunity by actively engaging with the discussion and learning from the eminent speaker.

Inaugural Address: Principal Dr. Anoop Kumar, formally inaugurated the event and greeted the distinguished keynote speaker, faculty members, and students present on the occasion. In his address, he proudly introduced the keynote speaker, Ambassador Ramesh Chander Ji, as one of the institution’s distinguished alumni. Highlighting his remarkable diplomatic career, the Principal noted that Ambassador

Chander has represented India with great dedication and professionalism on several important international platforms. He remarked that it was a matter of great pride and fortune for the institution that such an accomplished alumnus had returned to share his knowledge and experiences with the academic community. The Principal stated that the students and faculty were indeed fortunate to have Ambassador Ramesh Chander Ji as the keynote speaker for the event. Referring to the theme of the lecture, “Ongoing West Asia Crisis,” he emphasized that the topic is extremely relevant in the current global context. He noted that understanding the political dynamics and conflicts in West Asia is essential not only for the students of political science and international relations but for the common citizens as well. The Principal also congratulated the Department of Political Science for organizing the event on such an important and timely theme. He appreciated the department’s efforts in creating platforms for academic dialogue and encouraging students to engage with contemporary global issues.

Keynote Address: Ambassador Ramesh Chander (Rtd.) who possesses vast expertise in the fields of foreign relations, diplomacy, and strategic and security issues delivered the Keynote address on the theme “Ongoing West Asia Crisis: Emerging Trends in World Politics.” In his enlightening and thought-provoking lecture, he presented a comprehensive perspective on the ongoing West Asia crisis. He discussed in

detail the causes and consequences of the conflict and highlighted its wider implications for global peace and security. He stated that International Community is fully engaged in the ongoing West Asia Crisis with the direct involvement of the world’s leading powers US and Israel and their allies on one side and Iran with its allies on the other. West Asia, particularly countries of the Middle East (Gulf Countries) has become the theater of the actual was and operations as ‘war of compulsion’ as Iran’s extended neighbourhood. While discussing the genesis of the conflict he stated that in 1947 UN Partition Plan proposed dividing the land into separate Jewish and Arab states which was accepted by Jewish leaders but rejected by Arab leaders. With the creation of Israel, conflict between Israel and Palestine persisted. As such from day one both Israel and Iran have hostile towards each other.  He systematically elaborated on the genesis and evolution of the crisis, helping the students and faculty to understand the historical and political factors that have contributed to the present situation. He also explained the broader geopolitical dynamics shaping the region and examined the possible outcomes of the conflict. 

The ongoing crisis started on February 28, 2026 when US-Israel attacked Iran to eliminate its political and military leadership. In these strikes US named Operation Epic Fury and Israel named Operation Roaring Lion on Iran, the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei and many of its military and scientific elite were killed. US and Israel thought with the killings of Iran’s Supreme leader, there would be internal uprising and they would be able to install their puppet regime in Tehran. But unlike it, Iran responded with kinetic response with attacks not only Israel but widening the conflict with missile attacks it neighboring Arab countries hosting military and air bases of US. The conflict has become a regional conflict of the entire Middle East and beyond. 

The conflict has polarized the world with far reaching implications for the peaceful world order as stipulated in the Charter of the UN and other international covets and rules of international diplomacy and politics. There are very serious concerns for India both for its foreign policy and economy and also for communal edifice as India has a large population of Shia Muslims, akin of Iran brethren. The middle powers like India with likeminded allies who believe in Multi-polar World Order with its civilization values of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” need not sit on the fence and play its role in pursuance of its policy of Strategic Autonomy as a large country of 1.4 billion World’s largest democracy, one of the fast developing economies and the lofty message of Lord Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. While discussing the implications for India, he emphasized India’s policy of strategic autonomy in dealing with complex international issues. According to him, this approach enables India to maintain balanced diplomatic relations while safeguarding its national interests.

He concluded his lecture with a pragmatic message of Guru Govind Singh ji in his treatise “Zafarnama” (Letter of Victory) written in Persian language, “Chu Kaar Az Hamha Heelte Dar Guzast, Halal Ast Burdan Ba Shamsheer Dast.” It means when all other means have been exhausted, it is righteous to draw the sword. Let us draw the sword of Justice, Equality, Liberty and Fraternity to save the deteriorating peaceful world order. His lecture provided valuable insights into contemporary world politics and helped the students and faculty to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges emerging from the West Asia crisis.

Interactive Session: After the lecture, an interactive session was organized in which students and faculty members actively participated. During this session, the participants had the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarifications on various aspects of the West Asia crisis and contemporary global politics. The keynote speaker patiently addressed the queries raised by the participants and shared his valuable insights based on his vast diplomatic experience. The interaction made the session more engaging and helped the participants to gain a clearer and deeper understanding of the topic.

On this occasion Chandan Mahey, a student of MA Political Science (Semester-IV) was honoured to qualify NTA UGC National Eligibility Test held in January 2026. Principal Dr. Anoop Kumar congratulated him and the faculty of Department of Political Science for this distinctive achievement. 

Vote of Thanks: The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks proposed by Prof. Prof. Kuldeep Khullar President, Political Science Forum. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the Keynote Speaker for delivering an enlightening and insightful lecture. He also extended his heartfelt thanks to the

Principal and the College administration for their constant support in organizing the programme. He appreciated the staff members for their participation in the programme. He thanked the students for their enthusiastic and active participation in the programme.  On this occasion Prof. Sonika Dania, Vice Principal, Dr. SK Khurana, Head, Department of Economics, Prof Pankaj Gupta, Dr. Rajan Sharma, Dr. Raj Kumar, Dr. Isha, Prof. Amritpal Singh, Prof. Abhijeet Singh were also present. The programme was conducted by Ms. Muskan Sharma, a student of BA final year, whose oratory skills kept the audience, engaged throughout the programme.

Ambassador Ramesh Chander is an illustrious alumnus of DAV College. He is fully engaged in the socio-cultural and educational life of Jalandhar after his retirement from the diplomatic career.

 

Dalit Politics: Babasaheb Ambedkar and Babu Kanshi Ram

Dalit Politics: Babasaheb Ambedkar and Babu Kanshi Ram

There is a saying in Urdu – ‘Kuffar Toota Khuda Khuda Karke, It is fully true with regard to the Dalit Politics in India. At the dawn of Independence of India in 1947, Dalits; the marginalized sections of the society have had no say in the polity of India. In the decades preceding Independence, Babasaheb Ambedkar in liaison and cooperation with the leaders like; Periyar Ramsamy Naicker, Babu Mangoo Ram Muguwalia among others fought for the rights of the

depressed classes in the caste ridden Hindu society, now called in general parlance Dalits or Scheduled Castes and Tribes both with the British Rulers and also with the Caste hierarchies led by Mahatma Gandhi and others. The onerous task of making the Constitution of India fell on Babasaheb Ambedkar. Ambedkar was a visionary leader with a potent agenda. He left no stone unturned in exploring and identifying the right roadmap for India in its ‘Tryst with destiny’ and empower ‘We the people of India’ to embark on the journey to make India an inclusive society on the cardinal principles of secularism and democracy and to secure to all its citizens ‘Justice, Liberty, Equality and promote among them all Fraternity’. He made the edifice of secular democracy with the cement of the dictum of ‘One Vote – One Value’ breaking the barriers of discrimination on the basis of caste, creed and gender. These provisions set the agenda and paved the way to empower and uplift Dalits and other marginalized sections of the society including the women folk. The political situation has come full circle with positive outcomes. It is a matter of satisfaction that now no one in India can afford to ignore and sideline the depressed classes that is Dalits or Scheduled Castes and Tribes. The tyranny has broken – Kuffar Toota Khuda Khuda Karke.

In spite of the fact that Ambedkar dedicated and devoted his entire life in the service of India; initiating the schemes and plans for its economic development, reforming the Indian society, writing of the Constitution of India and  much more, he did not get his due from his high caste contemporaries and political and socio-cultural outfits run by them. Babasaheb Ambedkar was politically isolated and vilified, willfully, in his life time. But his mission and legacy was so potent that it could not be put under the carpet long. He rose from the ashes life a phoenix. The things have come to such a pass that no leader or party can afford to forget Ambedkar. Everyone is falling on each other to relate and own him. The process is on and many more things are yet to happen to achieve and fulfill the lofty vision of one of the greatest sons of India, Babasaheb Ambedkar.

Even after two decades of Ambedkar’s Parinirvana in 1956, no one recognized him and gave his due in the Indian polity and society. But it was not to be. Babu Kanshi Ram came on the socio-political firmament in early 1970s. He not only resurrected Babasaheb Ambedkar and his legacy but also brought the marginalized sections of the society; Dalits and OBCs in the political count as ‘Bahujans’

through various outfits like BAMCFE, DS4 and finally BSP and made BSP a political force to reckon with. Ambedkar was an intellectual and moral force with mass following but did not know how sail in the sullen political waters and convert his mass following into a sound political movement. Kanshi Ram was a pragmatic leader with political and social message. He filled the vacuum and took the caravan of Ambedkar to its logical heights particularly in the largest state in India, UP and also other parts of India. His protégé, Kumari Mayawati famously known as Behnji became the CM of UP for the record four tenures. But Kanshi Ram left the scene too soon in 2006 due to prolonged and disabling paralytic attack. His followers in the BSP headed by Behn Mayawati could not hold the fort in the absence of towering personality of Babu Kanshi Ram. But Kanshi Ram with his vision and untiring efforts and total selfless dedication had already done the job in awakening the masses with the cries of –

Vote Hamara; Raj Tuhara, Nahin Chalega Nahin Chalega

And

Jis Ki Jitni Sankhiya Bhari; Utni Uski Bhaghedari

Kanshi Ram proved himself as the true flag bearer of Babasaheb Ambedkar  to carry forward his mission and legacy with a pragmatic approach and left an indelible mark on the politics of India. Like the delayed and late recognition of his icon, Babasaheb Ambedkar, Kanshi Ram, after two decades of his demise, has resurfaced on the political scene with an added momentum. On his birth anniversary,

March 15, he became ‘Everybody’s Political Icon’ as termed by the Hindustan Times on March 16 in its Editorial. Congress Party leader and LoP in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi has demanded Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of India for Babu Kanshi Ram. Samaj Party leader, Akhilesh Yadav quickly followed suit. AAP, through a Resolution by the Punjab Legislative Assembly, has endorsed the demand to honour Babu Kanshi Ram. BSP headed by Kumari Mayawati and many more Dalit outfits had already registered their wish and demand for Bharat Ratna to the worthy leader. Now the ball is in the court of the ruling BJP to decide and deliver. It may not be an easy decision for BJP due to obvious reasons of ‘Manuwadi Mindset’ which yet to be completely shed in the echelons of socio-political spheres of public life in India. It would not be out of place to rake up the proposal of declaring, April 14, birthday of Babasaheb Ambedkar, as International Day of Equality under the aegis of UN. The proposal which was made in June, 2015, is lying unattended for the last more than a decade in the cup-boards of PMO (Now Sewa Teerath) and MEA despite regular soft reminders not only to the GOI but also to the BJP and RSS. My gut-feelings tell me that though Bharat Ratna to Babu Kanshi Ram is a fair and justifiable demand yet it has to pass and defeat many on the way. The Hindustan Times Editorial referred to in the preceding lines has rightly concluded, “Just like Ambedkar, Kanshi Ram was a political philosopher which envisaged a radical overhaul of Indian society by advocating power to the bahujan samaj (an alliance of the non-upper caste communities). The big question is whether any of the political parties chasing Kanshi Ram’s legacy embrace this provocative but anti-caste vision of democracy. Or, will it be like in case of Ambedkar – more of a symbolic embrace than an endorsement of the person’s radical political agenda.” I put it in a poetic jargon –

Meri Sada Ko Dabana To Khair Mumkin Hai

Magar Nai Awam Ki Awaj Kaun Rokega?

 

 

Dalits – Socio-Economic Empowerment and DICCI

 

Dalits – Socio-Economic Empowerment and DICCI

Chairman of DICCI, Dr. Milind Kamble

Right from the dawn of Independence of India in 1947 and the Constitution of India came into force in 1950, many provisions to empower and uplift the socially marginalized sections of the society, called Scheduled Castes and Tribes and in general parlance Dalits, have been incorporated and stipulated in the relevant and concerned statues of India and rightly so. Over the years much has happened on the positive side but still we are to go a long way to get a due share for Dalits in the economic development of the country. From time to time GOI has introduced many schemes and programmes to involve Dalit businessmen and entrepreneurs in the process. But due lack of awareness and much needed access to avail of these schemes, Dalits could not take full advantage of these affirmative actions of the
Governments both at the Center and the States.  It was felt, of late, a specific and particularly designated agency was needed to help the young Dalit entrepreneurs and businessmen.  Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DICCI) was established in 2005 by intellectuals and awakened Dalit businessmen led by Milind Kamble in association with others. It was a thoughtful initiative which was well received and supported not only by the decision making authorities in the business and administrative circles but also interested Dalit community. DICCI’s website would provide more details on their mission and activities: www.dicci.in

I have written about DICCI a couple of times earlier too in my blogs. My current motivation came from the recent, March 12, State Level Special Vendor Development Programme hosed at Jalandhar jointly by DICCI, NSIC and National SC & ST Hub (Ludhiana) in cooperation with other stake holders like: Power Grid Corporation, BHEL, Exim Bank, GeM, UCO Bank, FIEO, NIT Jalandhar, RCF
Kapurthala among others. I was invited to the function as a Guest of Honour by Tilak Khinder, Managing Director of one of the successful and established business houses of Jalandhar; Rattan Brothers – Manufactures and Exporters of Sports Goods in his

MD of Rattan Brothers, Tilak Khinder

capacity as the Mentor-Member of the Punjab Chapter of DICCI. Though I have been interacting with DICCI and other hosts of the function in past too yet the function of March 12 provided me another opportunity to learn and get updated with regard to the initiatives and programmes to empower Dalits economically with a view to make them as ‘Job givers rather than Job seekers’.

It was a very well hosted and arranged show to motivate and encourage Dalit entrepreneurs to participate in tenders to tap the supply Lines of Government procurement as aware and alert vendors. All the participating PSUs and others made very informative and useful presentations at the Technical Session of the programme. The audience comprising of mostly Dalit entrepreneurs
was much attentive and interested. The interactive phase of the function fully justified the beneficial outcome of the exercise. National President of DICCI, Ravi Kumar Narra, a business magnet of the community based in Hyderabad in his Key-Note address appreciated the good work being done by NSIC and National SC & SC Hub in coordination with DICCI and added that It was a matter of satisfaction that before the advent of DICCI, participation of Dalit suppliers in government procurement was only 0.5% which has now reached 3% amounting to 62 thousand crores of Rupees. He urged the Dalit businessmen to shed their inherent inhibitions and join the DICCI bandwagon to exploit the opportunities for our own progress and prosperity and also to join the process of nation building as visualized by our forefathers led by Babasaheb Ambedkar. Appreciating the role and contribution of Tilak Khinder in cooperating with DICCI, he cajoled the Punjab Dalit community to rise to the occasion and join hands with DICCI to join the main stream of economic life of India as Punjab was the home of more than 35% of the population, the biggest as compared to other states of India. Narra Sahib also informed the audience that to supplement and support the initiatives to make ‘Vikshit Bharat’ by 2047, DICCI has decided to empower Dalits as equal partners in development by 2047. He also added that DICCI would prepare the roadmap in this regard and submit it to the Niti Aayog in due course.

With a view to revamp the Punjab Chapter of DICCI, he appointed Mukesh Bassan of Belco Sports, a young and successful entrepreneur of Jalandhar as the President of DICCI in Punjab. My brief interaction with Ravi Narra was very useful and gratifying. I found him a sound and steady personality of vision with clear headed thinking and approach.

I take this opportunity to wish all the best to Mukesh Bassan, Tilak Khinder and DICCI under the stewardship of Ravi Kumar Narra and Milind Kamble.

Paron Ko Khol Zamana Udan Dekhta Hai

Zameen Per Baithkar Kya Aasmaan Dekhta Hai

 

On losing a close friend – Ram Lal Dass

 

On losing a close friend – Ram Lal Dass

My family friend, Ram Lal Dass, passed away on March 3, after a brief hospitalization in the wake of some heart-ailment. For the last of couple of years, he was weathering the old age infirmities with courage and fortitude through his social intermingling and keeping
himself busy in household and family matters. In one line, I would say that he was an intellectual face of the community while trying his best to remain humane as good human being. With the demise of Ram Lal, I have lost a friend; guide and philosopher at one go. Ram Lal was an asset of the community as a staunch Ambedkarite, devout Buddhist and a selfless social activist of standing.

My association with him dates back to our formative years in school and college in 1960s. His father, Karam Chand came back with family from Patna where he was engaged in leather business and settled in our extended neighborhood in Bootan Mandi, my native place in Jalandhar. We became friends in the process in our school days and later we both joined DAV College for higher education.  As young students in our formative years, we joined hands to do some community service both in our native place, Bootan Mandi but also to engage the student community to watch and guard interests of the SC students through association of SC students in Jalandhar and beyond, Babasaheb Ambedkar as our icon and aspiration. Ram Lal was emotionally charged and even, consciously or otherwise, joined the Jail Bharo agitation of the RPI in 1964 and went to jail which costed him loss of a scholastic year. Unlike me, Ram Lal was a keen
player of football and a health freak with long walks and jogging etc.  On the lighter side, in our college days, we were regulars in relishing Sodian Di Jalebees, Samosas of Kesri Restaurant and Khoya Burfi (Plung Tod) of a sweet shop in Model Town and quick tea in the DAV College Canteen. I left for Delhi in the pursuit of bread and butter to join IFS at the lowest rung in March, 1970, the year we graduated (BA). Ram Lal continued and did MA in political science. He was not an ordinary student of bookish knowledge but a dynamic one with real and enlightened approach. It was amply appreciated and recognized by the teachers like; Prof. K.K. Ghai and

At Ram Lal's Retirement Function

Prof. K.C. Mahindru with whom I could revive  relationship on my retirement and return to Jalandhar in 2011 on re-introduction by Ram Lal. Ram Lal tried his luck at the Civil Services Examination but later joined a bank as an executive. In the run up to our respective careers, we lost regular touch. I progressed as a faceless diplomat and Ram Lal as a banker and a community activist; as a bank employee’s unionist, joining other enthusiasts and his associates in throwing ‘pamphlet bomb’ in the Punjab Legislative Assembly, setting up Ambedkar Study Circle and publishing materials to spread the mission and legacy of Babasaheb Ambedkar, starting and running employment classes for the young aspirants, establishing Budd Vihar in Sidharath Nagar (Bootan Mandi) as one of the founder trustees, working closely with Ambedkar Bhawan Trust, Ambedkar Mission Society among other outfits in the area.

We picked up threads and revived our old association as good friends in our second innings on our retirement in the decade of 2010. It was gratifying to note that Ram Lal had earned recognition as an intellectual face of the community. He was a voracious reader of current affairs particularly of pertaining to weaker sections of the society and relevant literature. He was a proud processor of rare

books and assorted articles on the subjects of socio-political relevance to the dalits communities. Ram Lal was my informal consultant and adviser and also one of the critics on my socio- educational and cultural involvement in my second innings including my ill-advised and ill-conceived adventure in starting Jalandhar School of Careers and Opportunities and my lectures in educational institutions and also writing of my blogs. Thoughtfully and in line with his refined thinking to spread the mission and legacy of Babasaheb Ambedkar, he donated books and almirahs to DAV College Jalandhar which adorn the library of the college as ‘Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Study Corner’ and also a good collection of books to Babasaeb Ambedkar Government College in

Bootan Mandi in addition to his similar gesture to an organization in Nagpur. I was happy that he associated me with these activities as a good friend. Ram Lal was much impressed by yet another fellow BootanMandian, Pritam Ramdasspuri. He translated edited and published Pritam Ramdasspuri’s small pamphlet ‘Mala Ke Teen Moti’ a thought-provoking publication on Mahatma Buddha, Guru Ravidass and Babasaheb Ambedkar. If I put in Babasaheb Ambedkar’s jargon, Ram Lal Dass was really an ‘agitate soul’. One can imagine his predicament as to why and how the suffix ‘Dass’ added to his name. As Ram Lal was a dalit, when he was enrolled in the school in Patna, the teacher himself added ‘Dass’ to his name to identify him as a servant of the society. But Ram Lal was not a ‘Dass’ but a ‘Liberated’ soul as a true follower of Lord Buddha and Babasaheb Ambedkar. Ram Lal, to his credit, was not a goody-goody friend alone. At times, he was frank and true to his salt to call spade a spade without fear.

In his last months in the fag end of his active life, he cornered himself as a somewhat tired and dejected man partially due to his and her wife, Shindo’s failing health and partially due his family matters. He was regular to visit me quite often even without notice. We will sit and talk with cups of black coffee and nuts/biscuits. With mischief

in his eyes, he will often say that you visit your “Hum Piala’ friends and not him as he did not drink alcoholic beverages. But very thoughtfully, during one of my recent visits to his home, he gifted me a bottle of scotch – Black Label and a bottle of French wine which he possessed. I have not opened the bottle of scotch as yet. I will do so on some celebratory occasion in the coming months to remember a close friend. I close this informal tribute to Ram Lal with a heavy heart. We will miss you Ram Lal; we will miss you.

Na Hath Pakad Sake; Na Tham Sake Daman,

Bahut Nazdik Se Uthkar Chala Gya Koi

 

 

Punjab Da Boddhi Itihas (Buddhist History of Punjab) – Scholarly Research Book of Harmesh Jassal

 

Punjab Da Boddhi Itihas (Buddhist History of Punjab) – Scholarly Research Book of Harmesh Jassal

My friend Harmesh Jassal, my fellow BootanMandian, invited me to the book launch of his Magnus Opus – Punjab Da Boddhi Itihas a couple of months ago but due to health reasons I could not participate. It was kind of him to visit me to gift his book later. I have glanced through the book at leisure. It is a scholarly research work of the author, a staunch Ambedkarite, a conscious Buddhist, literarily and journalistic manager and a dedicated social activist and above all a good human being. Though I am not a voracious reader and a scholar and that too of civilizational historiography yet I thought of sharing my brief observations on the book as a layman.

The get up and layout of the book – Punjab Da Boddhi Itihas is good and presentable. The title page, designed and prepared thoughtfully, say it all to justify the title of the book – from Lord Buddha to Buddhist Kings and Monarchs to Babasaheb Ambedkar who revived Buddhism in India in recent times. The book contained in 368 pages has been divided in two parts – Part 1: Punjab Da Boddhi Itihas (Geo-Political – Rajsi) which has 12 chapters and Part 2: Punjab Da Boddhi Itihas (Civilizational or Archelogical – Prattav) with 3 chapters. The author has explained his motivation to write this book in the introductory narration; Lekhak Balon – From the Author. One of these motivations was to write and inform about the spread, elopement and revival of Buddhism in the Northern region especially Punjab to add and supplement the treatise ‘Buddhism in Punjab Haryana and Himachal Pradesh written by D.C. Ahir, a staunch Amerdkarite and erudite scholar a long time ago as the subsequent research and study has thrown many facts and developments which would certainly enrich the research and study of the subject for the benefit of the coming generations.  His thanks giving exercise is demonstrative of his net-working and harmonious qualities to make friends and involve them in his activities. Harmesh is magnanimous and liberal in recognizing these associates and friends in writing and publishing the book. He is magnanimous to a fault when he mentions my name in the narration in this regard. The color photos of some of these personalities, cream la cream, of the community, is an added feature of the book. The foreword of the book has been written as ‘Bhoomika’ by an erudite scholar and intellectual of Indian culture, tradition in its historical and contemporary parlance, Dr. Surinder Ajnat. Ajnat Sahib has rightly termed the book as ‘an all-inclusive’

and comprehensive narration on the subject. He has further said that Harmesh Jassal’s book was is the only distinguished book in Punjabi on the subject. Fully supplementing and supporting the treatise of the author, Surinder Ajnat has clearly stated that it was all the more possible and feasible the Lord Buddha might have visited and travelled through Punjab on the way to his journey to Taxila. He has also noted that how the Buddhist Kings like Ashoka the Great among others had spread Buddhism in Punjab and beyond. He has also raised an obvious question on the possibility that the Dalits were Buddhists before they were subjugated into Hinduism.

In the Part 1 of the book, 12 Chapters give all the details pertaining to geo-political and administrative scenario from the ancient times. It contains very useful and informative material for the research scholars and historians. The question of Lord Buddha’s visit and travel to Punjab, the core subject of the book, has been discussed in Chapter 2 – Tathagat Buddh Da Punjab Aagman (Lord Buddha’s travels in Punjab). As a layman, what I could gather is that there are still many conjectures on the visits of Tathagat Buddha to Punjab. The details on the ruling dynasties who tried their best to spread Buddhism in the Northern region including Punjab are listed in detail. It seems the author has done an in-depth study of these matters. In Part 2 of the book, the author has given all the details of archeological findings related to Lord Buddha and Buddhism spread over throughout Punjab. Harmesh Jassal personally visited these places to study and find all the relevant details for the benefit of the scholars and historians and also common man. The Tribune of February 26, 2026 carried a story by Journalist Aparna Banerji ‘Author Harmesh Jassal charts forgotten Buddhist history’ which gives some more observations on the book.

Punjab Da Boddhi Itihas is a well-researched book. It will be an asset for the research scholars and historians. Author Harmesh Jassal has done a wonderful job. He himself has written in the Lekhak Balon:-

Jis Din Se Chala Hoon; Meri Manzil Pe Nazar Hai,

Aankhon Ne Khabi Meel Ka Pathar Nahin Dekha.