South Asian Dialogues on Ecological Democracy (SADED)

Report for the Period April-September 2007

1 Table of content

Overview Thematic activity: Adivasi Survival Globally Thematic activity: Himalaya Swaraj Abhiyan Thematic activity: Water and Agriculture Thematic activity: Ecology, Dignity and Marginalised Majority Thematic activity: Ped Panchayat Thematic activity: Inter continental Dialogue

Annexes: Unaudited financial report Activity sheet and expenditure

2 Overview

As discussed in previous reports, given the nature of the SADED programme and its primary task of enlarging the concept of Ecological Democracy and increasing its spread through dialogue within civil society, policy makers and people at large, it is difficult to answer the three questions clearly. In this report, a brief overview note for activities during the reporting period is given below. It will, we hope, answer the questions somewhat more satisfactorily.

The period April to September has been a difficult one for SADED. Several of the core members, Uma Shankari, Rakesh Bhatt, Ritu Priya, Subhash Lomte and Narendra Bastar had to deal with serious illness of close family members. The thematic group of Himalaya Swaraj Abhiyan underwent a process of internal review and re-organisation. Despite this, we have been able to organize and participate in a considerable process of dialogue, and the network for Ecological Democracy continues to expand.

Cross-thematic dialogues were organised, such as the one on ‘Questions of Dignity and Future of Ecological Democracy’ at Dehradun in April, that brought together the issues of dalits, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and climate change in general, and with special reference to Uttarakhand. Interactions with diverse ideological and political streams in Nepal on the debates for the new Constitution writing, and within that the representation of the various ethnic and caste groups in the structure of state, were undertaken for SADED by a young researcher from Nepal and an Indian law student who interned with SADED in the summer. The SADED convenor continues to engage with the issues of Nepali democracy. Inter-continental dialogue was continued through participation in the WSF and ISF councils. Ecological and cultural issues became a part of the Indian social Forum plans for the week of action (23rd – 30th Jan. 2008) at the suggestion and insistence of several members of the SADED team that participated in the ISF council meeting. It was further strengthened by the participation in meetings of the Socialist International on migration, as well as the VK Finland events in Finland in September.

Research was initiated on women’s health issues by H.S.A. Some other H.S.A. members undertook self-study of ecological issues in agriculture and water by reading the documentation collected by SADED. Along with SADED members from Delhi and Bihar, they visited a successful experimental project in organic farming. Researchers have also been commissioned to document the social and ecological impact of economic policies, through for example, the SEZs coming up in India, arguments against them and the campaigns opposing them; and the phenomenon of farmers’ suicides. A team of SADED members from Delhi and Uttarakhand went to study the situation of the floods in Bihar, and give solidarity support to the groups working in the flood devastated areas. The work of strengthening various networks of informal workers in Maharashtra and at the national level continues, as does the ongoing work of H.S.A. on Jeevanshalas.

The work of developing the concept of Ecological Democracy and enlarging its reach was furthered by discussions and brainstorming with various network members. The active involvement of Dr. Asha Kachru has strengthened the input on gender democracy. Interaction with networks on adivasi issues helped evolve ideas on how to

3 view their condition. Discussions with Rajni Bakshi and Rama Shanker Singh brought focus on the Wealth Creators Forum for Ecological Democracy. Risto Isomaki’s intense interaction brought greater priority to the issue of Climate change-climate justice. Babulaji’s active involvement will develop the engagement with Gandhi and ecological issues further. We hope to build on these in the next phase.

During this period, especially the months of July, August and September, some publications were prepared for print, with final editing, updating and cover design. These include books and monographs on ecological democracy issues—among other, regional development issues of Uttarakhand including ecological issues, the floods of Bihar and their genesis in the ecological distortion of River Ganga, the phenomenon of hunger in India, and a successful non-violent struggle for land rights in Bihar.

4 Ecology, Dignity and Marginalised Majority – SADED thematic Co-convener Ghanshyam

S. No. Activities Description Participants Expenditures 1. Dialogue and A Wide Consultation under the 12 national Monthly Consultation with network 'Sangharsh 2007' at level leaders honorarium to Central Govt. New Delhi and met Central and many one person Sh. (1-7th April 2007) Ministers and Officers of officials and Baijnath Prasad Ministry of employment on ministers and Baiju. Rest of issues like Special Economic 50 the expenditure SEZ and the problems of representations on activities to unorganised sector. Apart from of Tribal self-finance this implementation of Nehru Groups basis. Rojgar Guaranty Scheme was also discussed on 2nd April; issues in this regard were presented before state ministers and representatives present there. The Panchayat level elections were not held in the state in last 27 years. Moreover the tribal population including Pahadia, Birhor etc. are eloping from this tribal belt. 2. NACDIP A three-day conference on the Representation Conference at problems of land and livelihood of 16 states Vishwa Yuvak in the tribal areas was held. A participated Kendra, New memorandum was presented to Delhi Union Minister, Mr. Oscar (25-27th July Fernandez. 2007) 3. State level A state level rally was organised 4000 landless Programme at of the labourers of unorganised labourers Madhupur, sectors, issues relating to participated 1st May, 2007 NREGA and exploitation/ atrocities on landless labourers were raised.. 4. State level A two-day state level seminar seminar was held at Madhupur in which 16-17th May at unemployed labours were Madhupur informed about the NREGA

5 scheme and it procedures. The participants were informed about various aspects of Right to Information Act. 5. Meeting and A demonstration and meeting 2000 farmers, Demonstration at was organised at Giridih District labourers, Giridih Headquarter, in which women and 28th May 2007 participants raised their students grievances of their local participated. problems such as land grab by the Indian and Multi-national business houses, and irregularity in implementation of Govt. Schemes. A memorandum was handed over to district authorities to return the Panchayat land (village council) which is illegally grabbed by ‘powerful’ people with the collusion of local police and state machinery. A public meeting followed the demonstration. 6. Padyatra/ Rallies A Padyatra (foot march) was organized in various districts of 15th Sept. to 11th Jharkhand to address the issue of Oct. 2007, in ‘Life and Livelihood’. This various districts march was flagged off by Sh. of Jharkhand. Rajender Singh, along with Sh. Ghanshyam, Anil Chandhari, Vijay Pratap and others. 145 public meetings were organised during this March at various places, in which about 15000 people participated.

Following issues were raised during the month long Padyatra:

1. Migration of tribals to cities in search of livelihood.

2. Various existing laws and acts benefiting the local communities which support traditional crafts and farming should not be scrapped due to the pressure generated by the industrial houses and multinational companies.

6 3. Panchayat elections be held immediately with equal 50% participation of women be ensured.

4. The land grabbed from the locals should be handed over to them.

5. The destructive schemes of World Bank and WTO which only benefit the industry destroy the indigenous livelihood should be withdrawn.

6. Privatisation of Water should be stopped.

7. Communalism should be curbed.

8. NGO-imperialism and marketisation of society should be stopped.

9. Traditional system, Democratic pluralism should be restored.

7. Demonstration A public demonstration was 300 men & 25th April 2007 organised at Vengabad Block to women highlight the following issues: participated.

1. NREGA should be implemented on Gram Sabha (village council) basis.

2. Poor people, who were left out in the (Below Poverty Line) BPL list, should be included.

3. Gram Sabhas should be selected on the basis of Revenue Villages

4. Selection of Aangan Wadi (Creche) teachers should be made according to the rules and laws and nepotism in the

7 selection be stopped.

5. Equal wages to women workers

6. Grabbed land should be returned to tribals.

7. Violence on women should be stopped. 8. Kisan Assembly A farmers’ assembly was Villagers from meeting organised at Leda. The 45 villages 13th May 2007 assembly raised the issues of participated in deforestation; harmful effects of this assembly. chemical fertilizers/ hybrid seeds supplied by multi-national companies like Dunkal. The assembly urged the government to protect traditional seeds which are becoming extinct and made suggestion to the farmers to use organic fertilizers and boycott use of chemical fertilizers. Other important issue was that of equal wages and rules for women workers. 9. Demonstration at A demonstration at Jamna block 700 men & Block head headquarter was organized. women quarter 'Jamna' Following issues/ demands were participated 13th June, 2007 raised in this demonstration. with drums and flutes. 1. Land distributed under Bhoodan (Land Gift) to the landless people should be restored which has illegally been grabbed by the mighty class.

2. To release the bonded labourer and ban the child labour.

3. Landless marginalized people should be included in NREGA and Indira Aawas Yojna. 10. Farmers’ An orientation camp for farmers 150 farmers assembly was organised at Kendua village from 10 villages 17th June, 2007 in Bengabad block. Following participated. issues were covered during the orientation camp:

8 1. Organic farming 2. Traditional Seeds 3. Protection of Forest 4. Gender issues 5. NREGA and Right to Information and its implementation. Agriculture expert from Hazaribagh Mr. Raj Kumar was the resource person. He had told the farmers about the alternative farming and locally available pesticides, and organic fertilisers. 11. Children A children assembly was assembly organized in which the children 15 Aug, 2007 expressed their views on environment, education, democracy and issues relating to social justice and dignity. 12. 19th Aug, 2007 A meeting of farmers and Representations villagers was organised at G.D. from 12 blocks Jalan Dharamshala in Giridih of Giridih district for social awareness. District Following issues were discussed participated in during the meet: this meeting.

1. Campaign against Child Marriage, 2. Dowry/ Divorce and bride killing 3. Campaign against illiteracy 4. Unmindful use of fertilisers and hybrid seeds 5. Youth and students were called upon to play active role for social and political awareness. 13. Kisan Mela A two day farmers fair was (Farmers’ fair) organised at Bengawad in Giridih (Farmers' Fair at district in which many farmer Bengawad groups displayed the success of (Giridih District) improved agricultural produce by applying traditional methods and 11-12 Sept. 2007 seeds and organic fertilizers. Among others Ghanshyam and other agricultural experts spoke at length on the benefits of local/ traditional seeds.

9 HIMALAYA SWARAJ ABHIYAN – UTTARAKHAND – SADED thematic Convener Bhuwan Pathak

10 Activities Description of Activity Participants Expenditure

List the Describe the activities that have Beneficiaries or activities from taken place so far, together with target groups to the the original their possible impacts. For project activities project plan. example, how many individuals Please also attended trainings or meetings highlight any and what was their response new activities etc. that might have not been included in the plan. Conference A 3-day conference was organized by SADED-Himalaya Swaraj Abhiyan/ Samata Andolan from 14–16 April, 2007 in Dehradoon, Uttarakhand on the issues of Dignity and future of Ecological Democracy and impact of Global Warming. Political leaders, activists, members of civil society, social scientists, specialists in the field of Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and littérateurs attended the conference. About 60 participants were present during the three-day conference. REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE IS ENCLOSED HEREWITH.

Meeting A Pani Panchayat (Water Assembly) was organized by SADED/HSA/Samta Andolan on 22nd April, 2007 at Kasani, District Almora, Uttarakhand to assess the impact of Global warming on Himalayan water bodies in which 35 Villagers from different areas participated.

Meeting A Two day meeting was organised on 3-4th May 2007 by SADED, at Ram Nagar District Nainital on the theme of people's 11 rights on natural resoures in uttrakhand in which 48 people participated Meeting A two day meeting was organised on 3-5th June 2007 by SADED, Uttrakhand and Save Himalaya Movement at Dehradun on the question of impact of Dams on Himalayan Ecology and society. 25 persons participated in it. Meeting SADED/ Samata Andolan organised a two-day meeting on 21-22 June 2007 at Almorah on the Questions of Dignity and Future of Ecological Democracy. 30 persons participated in it.

Research Study A Research program was conducted betwen 7-22nd April, 2007 on woman's Health and impact of Ecology in Uttrakhand by SADED-Uttrakhand Swasthya Panchayat in Block Garud in Bagheshwar, District of Uttrakhand. This research was also conducted on 4-18 May at Yamuneshwar block of Pauri District and on 10- 27 June 2007 at Block Ukhimath in Rudraprayag District of Uttrakhand Training camp/ HSA/SADED, Uttarakhand meeting organised a training camp for capacity building for the SADED research team. Mr. Anil Mukherjee from Deharadun and Mr. Tara Pandey from Ram Nagar where the main trainer. The trainers responded to the challenges faced by the research team while conducting research on woman's Health in Uttrakhand.

12 HSA/SADED, Uttrakhand organized a workers meeting on 22nd July 2007 at SADED office (Gagrigole, District Bageshwar) for evaluation of six month work and planning of future work. Decisions were taken after discussions and debates among all the activists engaged in H.S.A activities. DETAILED HINDI REPORT IS SUBMITTED TO SADED DELHI OFFICE WHICH WILL BE TRANSLATED AND SENT TO SIEMENPUU FOUNDATION Planning A programme planning meeting meeting of HSA/SADED, Uttarakhand was organized at SADED center in District Almora, Uttarakhand in which 13 activists participated. Coordination among Jeewan-Shala activists and core group members was discussed.

Meeting A meeting of three Gram Panchyats (Village Councils) in Ukhimath block, District Rudraprayag Uttrakhand by HSA, SADED, and a research study on woman's Health in Uttrakhand by Swasthya Panchyat was conducted. It was an ongoing process of research in uttrakhand to understand the impact of climate change and shrinking of natural resources in uttrakhand. In the process of this kind of research, small meetings and interviews of local women were conducted.

13 Detailed report and survey sheets were prepared.

Meeting A 5 member team of HSA participated in a meeting of India working committee of World Social Forum in Mumbai from 10th to 11th August 2007. These members later visited Yusuf Meharally Center, Tara Village near Mumbai from 12th to 14th August 2007 to get an exposure of experiments in organic framing.

Meeting HAS/SADED organized a meeting on 22nd August 2007 at Panchayat Bhawan, Ukhimath to analyze the research done by HAS in the villages in Ukhimath. The meeting attended by local people from neighboring villages. All meeting expresses including venue, local travel etc. were met from public contributions.

Field visit Four members of HSA visited Jharkhand, primarily to help Judav to assist in flood relief work from 6th September to 20th September 2007 During this visit they tried to understand the issues of flood and the ecological impact of floods an local people's life and livelihood. Study camp A five-day camp was organized by HSA and SIDH at Anashakti Ashram Kausani, Uttrakhand from 27th September to 2nd October 2007 on Gandhi in modem age and it relevance. 55-Panticipans attended the

14 6-day camp. Expenses for this camp were met through other sources and on self- finance basis. Meeting HSA and Lakshmi Ashram Kausani organized a 11 days meeting from 19th April to 29th April on the theme of Environment and Social system in Himalayas. 12 activists participated in it. Meeting HSA and Lakshmi Ashram, Kausani jointly organized an orientation for teachers, activists and school children of Kausani on the theme of 'Importance of Environmental issues in Education’. The objective of this program was to generate and collect material on environmental education. School children also took active role during the discussion. About 40 people attended this program, which was organized from 3rd may to 10th may 2007.

Padyatra A 6-day Padyatra (Foot (Footmarch) march) was organized by H.S.A in Dholadevi block, Almora to create awareness on ecological issues. Among others, 12 H.S.A activists took part in the Padyatra

Meeting HSA-SADED organized a meeting on 28th May 2007 at SADED office in Uttarakhand to prepare Plan of Action and also to discuss the future plans as well as organizational structure of HSA in which 8 activist of HSA participated Padyatra On 1st June 2007 HSA (Footmarch) organized a walk to contact

15 people in the area to explore to start a Swaraj centre in Bina. Samata Andolon organized a seminar an Ecological management and issues of Democracy in Himalayan Societies in Almorah an 21st June 2007. 33 people including social activists from Delhi and Uttarakhand participated in it.

Meeting HSA organized activists meeting at SADED office in Uttrakhand on 22nd July 2007 to evaluate its Six-month program and to discuss future plans. 9 activists of HSA participated in it.

Meeting HSA-SADED organized a meeting at Swaraj centre, Madam, Almorah to discuss the action plan. A discussion on proper coordination and future action among Swaraj centres of Khalsor, Bina and Madam was held. 13 activists from these centers participated in the discussions.

16 WATER AND AGRICULTURE – SADED thematic Convener – Dr. Uma Shankari

List the Describe the activities that have taken Beneficiaries or activities from place so far, together with their possible target groups to the the original impacts. For example, how many project activities project plan. individuals attended trainings or meetings Please also and what was their response etc. highlight any new activities that might have not been included in the plan. Meeting On 22 June, 2007 a team comprising of Vijay Pratap, Dr. Anil Thakur, Gopal Krishna, Mehar Singh Dabas, Babulal Sharma and Narendra Bastar took part in a meeting organized in Almora Distrist on traditional organic farming. Possibilities of starting organic farming in Madam village, Almora were discussed. The meeting was organized by H.S.A. Uttarakhand. Meeting On 28 – 29 April, 2007 a two day meeting was held in Udaipur, Rajasthan by SADED convener Vijay Pratap and member of SADED coordination committee Rakesh Bhatt with social activists in Udaipur, Rajasthan to explore possibilities of cooperation between SADED and other organizations in Rajasthan in the field of organic farming. Field visit A field visit was undertaken by SADED convener Vijay Pratap, SADED coordination committee member Rakesh Bhatt, Rishikant and Rajendra Dhasmana from April 30 to Mary 2, 2007 in Dehradoon and Srinagar Garhwal, Uttarakhand. Possibilities of starting SADED’s activities in Organic farming were discussed. A field inspection of land to be given to SADED on lease was done around Pali Village, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. Conference A three member team of SADED attended a three day Civil Society Conference in Bangalore from 24 to 26 August,

18 2007. Fruitful discussions of cooperation were held with Timbaktoo Initiative - an organization working in the field of organic and traditional farming in South India. Meeting SADED convener Vijay Pratap visited Hyderabad from 2-4 September, 2007 and discussed issues of sustainable agriculture with Uma Shankari and other activists in Andhra Pradesh.

Ecology, Dignity and Marginalised Majority – SADED Thematic Co-convener Subhash Lomte

S.No. Date Place Activity Participants 1. 1, April 2007 Aurangabad Demonstrations 100 against Supreme Court Order against

19 Other Backward Classes (OBCs) reservations in higher education. A memorandum was handed over to Divisional commissioner’s office urging Supreme Court to review its decision. 2. 3, April 2007 Pune, State level meeting of 40 Maharashtra the representatives working in unorganized sector workers on social security legislation. Among others Dr. Baba Adhav was present during the meeting. The meeting discussed the following topics: 1. Comprehensive legislation for unorganissed sector workers, Wage revision, insurance and old age pension. 2. Demand of inclusion of Right to Work in fundamental rights in the constitution. 3. 4, April 2007 Mumbai, Rally and 400 domestic workers Maharashtra Demonstrations of the domestic workers before state assembly for the comprehensive legislation 4 5, April 2007 Mumbai Demonstration before 5000 the State Assembly for scrapping of special economic zones’ legislation. The meeting was organized by anti globalization front, Maharashtra.

20 Delegation later met Deputy Chief Minister R.R. Patil took note of the demands of the gathering and promised that there would not be forced grabbing of farmers’ land for setting up of SEZs. He also promised to discuss the demands with the State Chief Minister. 5. 7-9 April 2007 Aurangabad An indefinite hunger 10 people were on the strike was undertaken hunger strike. against forced eviction 150 people attended of hawkers near the meeting. Siddharth Garden (A recreation center cum restaurant). The demands included providing alternative livelihood avenues for the affected hawkers. Hunger strike of hawkers ended on 3rd day with the assurance from the Municipal Corporation Authorities for proper rehabilitation. A public meeting was organized after ending the strike. 6. 8, April 2007 Aurangabad Meeting of Hamals 250 participants (Head loaders) at . Waluas in Aurangabad, Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) for the implementation of Mathadi Act 8. 10, April 2007 Aurangabad Domestic workers' 300 domestic workers meeting for the were present comprehensive legislation and against corruption in Public Distribution System 10. 11, April 2007 Mumbai A state level Meeting 20 participants

21 of anti globalization front representatives; to assess the special economic zones proposed in the state 11. 13, April 2007 Aurangabad Dharna and 90 workers were demonstration before present labour commissioner's office, of the Mathadi workers (Head loaders) to implement the Mathadi Act. 12. 14, April 2007 Aurangabad Dr. Ambedkar's birth 350 people attended anniversary program meeting. 13. 15, April 2007 Nagpur State level meeting on About 250 people land and livelihood issues and participation in Janadesh2007 march was discussed. 14. 17, April 2007 Aurangabad Peaceful Satyagrah of 200 people present the Hamals (Head loaders) before the Cosmo Films Company to implement the Mathadi Act 15. 19, April 2007 Aurangabad District level anti About 25 globalization front representatives were meeting present 16. 21, April 200 Aurangabad Participation in 500 people Lecture of justice Rajender Sachchar on judicial system in democracy organized by Aurangabad High Court Bar Association 17. 23, April 2007 Aurangabad Dharna and About 150 participants demonstration before were present the regional commissioner's office against the Supreme Court's Stay to OBCs Quota in higher education 18. 25, April 2007 Aurangabad Rally and About 1000 domestic demonstrations of workers participated domestic workers on district collectorate to

22 have a legislation for domestic workers which contains provisions of social security and pensionary benefits was organized in Aurangabad. Issues relating to corruption in public distribution system for Below Powerty Lines Ration Cards holders. 20. 29, April 2007 Aurangabad A meeting was About 200 people organized in were present Aurangabad on the legal aspects of SEZ legislation. Supreme Court advocate Prashant Bhushan informed that proposed SEZ legislation would give unlimited power to the business houses who own a particular SEZ. No national labor laws would be applicable which would make the SEZ owner a State within a State. 21. 1, May 2007 Aurangabad A rally and conference 300 workers were of Head Loaders on present May Day (International Workers' Day) was organized in Aurangabad. 22. 1, May 2007 Aurangabad A Domestic Workers' 400 domestic workers rally was organized were present with demand for a legislation for their welfare. 23. 2, May 2007 Aurangabad Participation in a 70 people were seminar on regional present imbalance of backward Marathwada region. The seminar was organized by Swami Ramanand

23 Tirath Institute 24. 9, May 2007 Mumbai Participation in a About 25 meeting organized by representatives were State Labour Minister present from on the issues relating Marathwada Labour to Mathadi Workers Union. 25 16, May 2007 Nagpur A Conference was 1000 people were organized to present implement Sachchar committee report for the upliftment of backward muslims. Chief guests were Dr. Abu Saleh Sharif, Asgar Ali Engineer, Hussain Dalwi, Dr. Roopa Kulkarni and Subhash Lomte 26. 18, May 2007 Aurangabad Demonstration before 43 activists were in High Court, the jail for a week Aurangabad for OBCs reservation in Higher Education. Police arrested 43 demonstrators and jailed for one week. 27. 13, June 2007 Kultabad in Rural workers About 150 people Aurangabad conference on District employment guarantee Act and Land to the landless issue. Logistics and other issues for participation in Janadesh2007. 28. 17, June 2007 Aurangabad Training Camp for 60 people young Hamals workers was organized for one day. The new Hamal workers were informed of the provisions of the Mathadi Act. They were thoroughly informed of their rights and duties in the act. 29. 24, June 2007 Aurangabad A meeting of Rag 150 people were pickers' on the issues present of Ration Cards, BPL Cards and Identity

24 Cards from Municipal Corporation. 30. 26, June 2007 Aurangabad A conference on the 2500 people attended issue of Social justice was organized in Aurangabad. Bhai Vaidya, Comrade Govind Pansare and Dr. Nadaf were the Chief Guests. The seminar discussed on this issue with special reference to minorities, dalits and OBCs. 31. 1, July 2007 Aurangabad A meeting of 200 domestic workers Domestic Workers' were present was organized in Aurangabad for their demands to have a legislation for the Domestic Workers. 32. 3, July 2007 Mumbai State level meeting 35 representatives called by State Labour were present Minister for the implementation of labour legislations in unorganized sector 33. 6 to 8 July, Delhi Participation in 2007 SADED consultation meeting in Delhi. 34. 19, July 2007 Aurangabad Rally and one day 400 workers were strike was organized in present Aurangabad for wage MANDI HAMALS revision issue of Grain Market Hamal workers. 35. 24, July 2007 Kultabad at Huge rally was 500 people were Aurangabad organized for proper present District implementation of Employment Guarantee Act and Distribution of Government land to the landless labourers 36. 29, July 2007 Aurangabad A demonstration of 125 domestic workers Domestic workers was were present organized in Aurangabad. The demonstrators

25 gheraod the Rationing Shops for 4 hours to prevent the corruption in the Public Distribution System. The District implementing authorities intervened and assured the domestic workers of appropriate action against the PDS shop owner who indulge in malpractices. 37. 1, August 2007 Aurangabad Scholarship was Scholarship for 109 distributed to the students were given wards of unorganized labourers through Jan Shree Yojana of Life Insurance Corporation. ( Rs.1200/- per year per ward is given as scholarship) 38. 3, August 2007 Soygaon of Rally and About 150 Hamals Aurangabad demonstration of were present District Mathadi Workers on Tahsil Office for the proper implementation of Mathadi Act 40. 9, August 2007 Aurangabad Week long campaign About 1450 people District started for the social participated security protection for unorganized and unprotected workers: Demonstrations of domestic workers- 300. Demonstrations of construction workers- 150, Demonstrations of Rag pickers- 100, Demonstrations of Hamals- 400, Demonstrations of Agricultural workers and landless labourers- 500 41. 10 & 11th Mumbai WSF India Council About 30 people August, 2007 meeting attended by

26 representatives of Socialist Front, Samata Andolan, Himalays Swaraj Abhiya, Ped Panchayat, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, 42. 13, August Delhi A rally and About 1000 people 2007 demonstrations for the were present; comprehensive RAM DAS Members legislation for of Parliament, Ram unorganized workers Das Athavle, before Parliament of Devendra Prasad India Yadav, Chandrakant Khaire, Surendra Mohan and Baba Adhav, Ila Bhatt were mobilized. The Members of Parliament promised that they would back the Bill when Placed in Parliament. 43. 19, August Ahmednagar, State level meeting of 25 representatives 2007 Maharashtra the Coordination were present Committee of Agriculture and Employment Guarantee Scheme workers for proper implementation of Employment Guarantee Act. 45. 30, August Delhi Core Group Meeting 15 representatives 2007 of national campaign were present committee on land and livelihood issues. 46. 9, Aurangabad Domestic workers' 100 people were September2007 meeting. 5000 forms present. were collected from Collectorate Office in Aurangabad and distributed in 100 slum areas. Out of these 5000 forms, 4500 were duly filled and submitted to the Collectorate for issuing the Ration

27 Cards for the poor people. 47. 10, Aurangabad Rag pickers meeting. 50 representatives September2007 The District Municipal attended. Corporation authorities were urged to issue Identity Cards to the Rag pickers and they should not be harassed by the local police and Municipal Corporation authorities. 48. 14, Mumbai State level anti 30 representatives September2007 globalization front were present meet on SEZ 49. 16, Khultabad One day training camp 100 youths were September2007 for rural youth to present organize and train them with proper information of Public Distribution Scheme, NREGA and other acts that have effect on their lives directly. 50. 16, Aurangabad Domestic workers' 200 people were September2007 meeting on Public present Distribution System scheme issues. 51. 20, Mumbai A state level meeting 35 people attended September2007 organized by State Labour Commissioner for the proper implementation of Mathadi Act. 52. 28, Sakri, Dist Huge rally and public 5000 people were September2007 Dulia meeting of landless present Adivasis on land and livelihood issues and against the Wind Mills on their lands. The meeting was organized by Anti Globalisation Front. The rally and the meeting was not against alternative sources of energy, but erecting structures for new technological

28 innovations, the land of poor and voiceless people was being forcibly grabbed by the Wind mill owners. The meeting demanded that share of profit from sale of the energy should be given to those people on whose land these wind mills are being erected. 53. 29, Aurangabad Huge demonstration of 1000 people were September2007 domestic workers present before Collectorate to raise issues of corruption in Rationing, for BPL rationing cards and Comprehensive Legislation for domestic workers.

Ecology, Dignity and Marginalised Majority – SADED Thematic

29 Co-convener Dr. Ritu Priya

Activities Mid-Term Progress Reasons for possible Participants Expenditure differences from the initial project plan

List the Positive and negative activities Describe the aspects Beneficiaries or from the activities that have target groups to the original taken place so far, project activities project plan. together with their Please also possible impacts. For highlight any example, how many new activities individuals attended that might trainings or meetings have not and what was their been response etc. included in the plan. Meetings 1. Dehradun, April The presentation of Sharing of ideas and 14-16 perceptions of dalit perspectives between Presentation on ‘Dalit groups from a activists and Perceptions of researcher’s researchers creates a Wellbeing: Dignity viewpoint, gave a dialogue that enriches and ……’. There was different vantage both and moves rich discussion on the point and public discourse issue. Several complemented forward. activists of diverse presentations of political shades and personal experiences from both, the upper of the social and and dalit castes, political workers spoke of their from the region, both To be developed as a experience of the the dalits and future activity of issue as the caste members of the upper SADED groups and Supporting members relate to castes. its larger network. Constructive each other in the Action Uttarakhand region. Members of the The Dil Se Some exchanges H.S.A. and this programme is a were sharp. Some thematic agreed to government demonstrated both work together to sponsored, NGO the indignities faced develop this further organized programme by dalits and the in the coming for street children in efforts by ordinary months. which SADED is also (ie. not activist) upper involved. caste persons to

30 ensure their dignity. [Annexure: Transcript of presentation] Core 2. Discussed the This should help Coordination possibility of SADED members Support developing an and partners raise experiment in a civil larger issues related society initiative for to the ecology and Research strengthening quality dignity destroying of health care through elements of the a coalition of This is expected to development model practitioners of improve being followed. various systems and understanding of the at all levels, public links between and private, with ecological, economic, community members, social and especially women. psychological dimensions of the 3. Delhi, May- impact of current Participated in developmental deliberations on policies. setting up a medical support system for ‘Dil se’, the street children’s initiative on 7th May, and in the following weeks, assisted in accessing provision of care to children of the initiative who were seriously ill.

4. Support to the Convenor and Coordinator of SADED in relating each of the themes and thematic groups to issues of ecology, health and dignity.

Initiated a literature review to study the ecological and social dimensions of the

31 agrarian crisis through the farmer’s suicides. A young researcher will be encouraged to examine the issue from the viewpoint of an ecological and social crisis.

Ecology, Dignity and Marginalised Majority – activities led by BABULAL SHARMA

List the Describe the activities that have Beneficiaries or activities from taken place so far, together with target groups to the the original their possible impacts. For project activities project plan. example, how many individuals Please also attended trainings or meetings highlight any and what was their response etc. new activities that might have not been included in the plan. Actively partcipated in WSF process- India Council Meeting held in Mumbai on 10-11 August, 2007 WSF at Mumbai Interacted with 25 people and volunteered in two committees on South Asia and Organising Events. Media Workshop and Core Group meetings South Asia Peace Alliance at Gwalior from 2nd to 8th August 2007 Shri Kuldeep Nayar inaugurated this workshop in which 26 journalists from 19 states of India participated including one from Pakistan and six from Nepal. It was decided in this workshop to collect and highlight the 100 success stories of non violence in South Asia. Mrs. Rita Roy has accepted to take up this responsibility. 70th Birth Day Celebration of Dalia Lama Tibat House Organised a function on this occasion at Gandhi Museum, Rajghat on 6th of July 2007 70 trees are planted on this occasion by various dignitaries and diplomats. About 200 people attended this function. I was the organiser of this function. Youth Camp

33 National Youth Project at Jaipur on April 7 to 14, 2007 500 youths from different states attended this camp under the leadership of Shri S.N. Subbarao. I was one of the organisers.

34 Preparatory Meetings SAPA/SADED - January and July 2007. National convention on disarmament to combat poverty. To prepare and mobilise the national convention on this subject which is going to be held on 5th and 6th October at ISI, New Delhi.

Three days Seminar on SEZ Issue SADED and Uttrakhand Chaupal in April 2007 Attended this two days Seminar at Mussouri. I also contributed an article published in local newspaper of Delhi. Exposure Visit of Almorah, Uttrakhand SADED and Uttrakhand Chaupal in July 2007 Joined a group of workers from Delhi to study dalit issues and the experiments of Lok Shala in Almorah District where SADED has started some education activities.

Children's Activities Siddharth Welfare Society, Calcutta on 15th August, 2007 An orphonage is being run by this society and I was invited to address a children assembly about the democracy and dignity. A tree plantation was also organised on this occasion. 110 children, 10 teachers and 50 prominent citizens attended it in Calcutta. Meetings Compaign against a small arms organised by CASA on 28th September 2007 An initiative is started in Delhi by OXFAM and I am the part of it in the inaugural meeting and about 40 activists attended this meeting and came into my contact.

35 Ped Panchayat – activities led by Prabodh Raj

List the Describe the activities that have taken Beneficiaries or activities from place so far, together with their possible target groups to the the original impacts. For example, how many project activities project plan. individuals attended trainings or meetings Please also and what was their response etc. highlight any new activities that might have not been included in the plan. World On 5th June, 2007 World Environment Day Such activities create Self-finance Environme celebration ceremony was jointly organized environmental nt Day by SADED, Ped Panchayat and Bal Vikas awareness in Event Protsahan Sangh at Uttam Nagar, New Delhi. the society 20 saplings of different varieties of trees were especially planted in streets of the area. The local children and residents took the responsibility of looking the youth after the saplings. 100 saplings were distributed among the children present there to plant them in the areas where they live and a decision was made that prizes will be given on 15 August (Independence Day) to those children who took care of their planted saplings. 100 children participated in the ceremony. On 21st July 2007 Mango festival was jointly Self finance organised at Munirka, New Delhi by Ped Panchayat and SADED. The participants expressed concern over elimination of traditional varieties of fruits replacing it with the imported or hybrid varieties only to extract more profit without caring of its adverse effect on the local ecology. The participants reminisced that in the past some fruit bearing trees were left for public use, however, this feeling of sharing is gradually on the decline due to the influence of marketisation. 21 people participated in the celebration.

On 5th August, 2007 a tree plantation and sapling distribution ceremony was organized jointly by Ped Panchayat and

37 SADED at Bindapur New Delhi. Tree saplings of traditional indigenous varieties like Kachnaar, Amaltash, Jamun, Neem, Pipal, Bud, Shisham, Harsingar, Shahtoot, Paapri, Gooler, Bahera were distributed among the local residents. They were urged to care for the sapling for some time. The ceremony was videographed and CD is available with SADED office. 100 people attended the ceremony.

38 A study tour by 9 member team of Ped The team had Panchayat and SADED was undertaken on gone to 12-13th August, 2007. The team visited participate Yusuf Meherally Organic Farming Centre at in WSF Tara village, Raigarh district, meeting Maharashtra. The organic farm with a size held in of 1/4 of an acre grows organic produce Mumbai sufficient for a 5-member family. Such on 10 – 11 experiments are suited for farmers with small August, holding of agricultural land. It was decided 2007. The travel and that the team should propose to the SADED accommod steering committee to consider starting such ation experiments with the help of Yusuf Meherally expenses Centre. The Center expressed its readiness to were met provide training to SADED and Ped by Panchayat activists. SADED, however, accommod ation and food was provided by Yusuf Meherally Centre during 12 – 13 August, 2007. Prize As decided earlier a prize distribution Self finance distribution ceremony was organized on15th August, Ceremony 2007 by Ped Panchayat, Bal Vikas Protsahan Sangh and SADED. Prizes were given to 5 children (out of 100 children) for taking care of the tree saplings planted on 5 June 2007 (World Environment Day) in Uttam Nagar, New Delhi. Other children were also given token prizes to encourage them for protecting the natural surroundings of their area. 100 Children took part in the ceremony.

INTER-CONTINENTAL DIALOGUE – SADED thematic

World Social Forum not being an ‘organization’ with definite structure or defined leadership, with open ended inclusive character, providing an open space for the voices against the exclusive character of market led globalisation, is a potent platform

39 playing a non partisan role to the social/ political/ ecological/ and economic struggles around the globe. SADED engages with WSF more as a process than event centric. SADED actively participates in the WSF events focusing mainly to take the process to the grass roots/ social/ political activists and intellectuals.

SADED attended all the meetings of India Working Committee to push forward the decisions made at WSF Mumbai, Bhopal and Delhi. SADED convener, Vijay Pratap held discussions with activists and intellectuals in various parts of the country and Nepal, Pakistan, Africa and Europe during this period.