Revised mpg 04

1

M I T SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT

PUNE

One-Year Full Time

Masters Program in Government

Batch 04, Year 2008-09

2

Index Particulars Pg. No. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Inauguration Ceremony 5

Eminent Lectures

Dr. Mrs. Archana Patil 8

Mr. Asheesh Sharma 9

Mr. Digvijay Singh 10

Justice P. B. Sawant 12

Maj. Gen. R. K. Kaushal 13

Ms. Jodi Enda 14

Mr. B. G. Deshmukh 15

Mr. Ramnath Sonawane 18

Mr. Mahesh Tapase 20

Mr. Chandrakant Dalvi 22

Mr. Rajeev Rajale 23

Shri. Tanmayanand Maharaj 24

Mr. Suresh Prabhu 25

Mr. Laxmikant Deshmukh 27

Ms. Prabha Rau 29

Mr. Jayant Umaranikar 31

Mr. Maninder Singh Bitta 33

Mr. Budhoji Rao Mulik 34

Ms. Sahista Amber 36

Mr. Sunil Shastri 37

3

Mr. Prataprao Jadhav 38

Mr. Jai Prakash 39

Local Field Visits

Congress Bhavan, Pune 41

Visit To Hivre Bazar 43

Visit To Yashada 44

Katewadi 45

Dalit Bastis / Urban Slums 46

Sarhad – An NGO From Pune 47

Model Parliament 49

Convocation Ceremony 51

Academic Team 54

Academic Awards 56

Advertisement 58

4

Inauguration Ceremony

5

Inauguration Ceremony

The inaugural function for the Masters Program in Government, Batch 04 was organized

on September 5, 2008 at Saint Dyaneshwara Hall, MIT Pune, at 3.00 pm. It was also an

historic occasion for MIT International School for Broadcasting and Journalism (ISBJ), as it

was their first inaugural ceremony. The fourth batch of MPG was inaugurated at the

gracious hands of Lt. Gen. Rajender Singh SM, VSM, highest ranking holder in Indian

Army, and Shri. Sudheendra Kulkarni, a veteran journalist and former media advisor to

PMO. The dignitaries on the dais were Lt. Gen. Rajender Singh (Chief Guest – MIT-SOG),

Shri. Sudheendra Kulkarni (Chief Guest – MIT-ISBJ), Prof. Rahul V. Karad, Chief Initiator

and Dean - MIT School of Government (MIT-SOG), Dr. Francis A. Menezes, Academic

Mentor, MIT-SOG, Mr. Yashvant Rajwade, former IAS officer and Election Commissioner

Maharashtra and Prof. (Gp. Capt.) D. P. Apte, Acting Director MIT-SOG & Director, MIT

School of Business. The dignitaries off the dais included Col. (Dr.) S. V. Sharma, Associate

Director MIT-SOM, Prof. (Dr.) Shrikant Paranjpe, and Academic Advisor MIT-SOG Shri.

Pardeep Choudhari, All India Youth Congress Spokesman and Associate Director,

Institutional Relations, Dr. Purushottam Reddy, Shri. Shashidharan, Director, MIT- ISBJ

and other staff members of

MIT- SOG as well as MIT-

ISBJ. The function started

with national song,

Vandematarm followed by

welcome address by Prof.

Rahul V. Karad, Dean MIT-

SOG and MIT- ISBJ.

He expressed his deep concern about the need of professional politicians for the country

like India and stressed that the present situation in India is thriving for good and polished

politician who take the nation forward and keep it in the line of the world class nations.

His speech inspired the students of both MIT-SOG and MIT- ISBJ. It was followed by the

felicitation of the dignitaries on the dais at the hands of Prof. Rahul V. Karad. After the

felicitation, the gathering was addressed by Dr. Paranjpe, who briefed about the journey

of MIT SOG so far also elaborated about the expectation of MIT-SOG from the new

students. Later, Lt. Gen. Rajender Singh delivered his inaugural address. At the outset,

he appreciated the initiative and efforts taken by Prof. Rahul V. Karad in starting an

6

institute like MIT- SOG, and also stressed on the need and relevance of such institution

for nation building. He emphasized on need to change and narrated his own experiences

regarding how the army has adopted new policies and is changing by incorporating new

technologies. He explained the changes taken place in army after the China and Pakistan

war. He made special mention in his address to the students that one has to be very

vigilant and cautious in their attempt, while dealing with foreign policy, mainly with the

neighboring countries. The second inaugural address was delivered by Shri. Sudheendra

Kulkarniji. He stressed the importance and relevance of ethical media and ethical

leadership. He criticized the current 'Braking News' culture in the media and emphasized

the need for responsible and socially driven media. He also shared his experiences when

he had visited MIT-SOG to interact with the students of the previous batches. He

applauded the initiative by Prof. Rahul V. Karad of starting an institute like MIT -SOG. He

gave the example of Mr. Vasanth Kumar, an alumnus of MIT- SOG, who is actively

struggling for social causes and appealed the students to follow the footsteps of past

students like him. He also answered some of the queries of the students satisfactorily.

The function was concluded with the vote of thanks by Col. (Dr.) Sneh V. Sharma,

Associate Director, MIT-SOM with his apt remarks, followed by National Anthem. Ms.

Mukta Kulkarni, Academic Administrator, MIT-SOG was the Master of Ceremony.

7

Eminent Lectures

8

DATE: September 4, 2008

GUEST SPEAKER: Dr. Mrs. Archana Patil

DESIGNATION: Social Activist

SUBJECT: Attitude & philosophy in politics

She started the interaction with discussion on how one's

attitude can help in having a successful and sustainable

political career. She stressed on some very important

Characteristics a politician should have in order to deliver as

a leader. Having a balance and unbiased mind with firm

determination would help one sail through the deep waters.

Introspection, Pragmatic approach, innovations,

assertiveness, correctness are some qualities one needs to

develop. She stressed upon having a vision, being futuristic (in context of the scientific

development, time management and proper Utilization of technology) as well as being

efficient. She also shared her views on how humility with contrasting fearlessness, along

with the continuous process of learning can elevate a person in her/ his social as well as

personal life. Regarding the philosophy in politics she focused on the concept of "RAJ

DHARMA". According to her, it included 'euphoria of work, restrictions of code of

conduct, constitutional frame work and Strategies along with a political will‟. She

suggested all to have a „quest to know', be composed, have great common sense &

aspire to create modern inventions. Mrs.

Patil advised the participants to show

genuine sensitivity and have a detailed

understanding of the country in order to

lead from the front. She cautioned about the

main disease that hampers a leader

"Difficulty in facing criticism as well as difficulty in tackling flattery". Thus she stressed on

the need of having right expressions. She shared her views at length and left participants

to ponder about many crucial personality development characteristics. On the whole, it

was a session of the youth, by a youth and for the youth.

9

DATE: September 12, 2008

GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Asheesh Sharma

DESIGNATION: Municipal Commissioner, PCMC

SUBJECT: India: Challenges to Policy Implementation

He initiated the lecture by briefing about the various services

provided by the Pimpri - Chinchwad Municipal Corporation

(PCMC) in different areas. PCMC is a Model Corporation for

the entire country having a citizen charter which has made it

more efficient. From transparency in administration, public

accountability & evaluation of work, decentralized

administration to active citizen participation, PCMC has

emerged as an exception. Mr. Sharma before proceeding with the lecture highlighted

the success stories of the corporation namely , e- governance, free distribution of bicycle

for girls, sewing machines & vocation training program s for woman, financial /

scholarship system, Adulteration entrepreneurship promotions schemes. Regarding

policy implementation, he pointed out the practical difficulties in running a corporation.

He stressed on the need for Public interest & Public choice viewpoint as well as adoption

of Performance- Oriented Policy. According to him, the policy of PARTICIPATORY

BUDGETING, an innovation to bring about

progressive and sustainable development was

the need of the time. He pointed out the

absence of Good Pressure Groups as well as

Citizen Interest Groups in the country. Mr.

Sharma mentioned certain flaws in the systems

that create problems in policy implementation,

primarily the Top to Bottom approach of our policies. Also the lack of involvement of

local people, no real powers with the local government, along with lack of genuine

statistical data are major hindrances in policy implementation. Having been through all

these problems, he shared his concerns that innovations are practically hard to

implement.

10

DATE: October 11, 2008

GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Digvijay Singh

DESIGNATION: Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha

SUBJECT: Shifting Trends in India‟s Foreign Policy

In the introductory note, while mentioning the long history of India, he stressed the fact

that India was never aggressive or a dictating nation. He reminded that the 1st Indian

Foreign Policy was made in 1927, in the presence of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and since

then the structure and the framework of our policy is unchanged, and the same policy is

being continued by all the parties, disregarding their ideologies. But, for the 1st time

when the parliament was divided on the foreign policy, it was due to the recent Indo-US

Nuclear Deal.

While discussing the future of the Indo-US Nuclear deal, he pointed out that majority of

the Indians felt that the Nuclear Deal should have been signed with India‟s Sovereignty in

place. He informed that India can generate upto 28,000 MW of power by this deal and

that too by the year 2030. But the cost as per his view will be about Rs. 20 Crores per

MW, which is too high compared to Rs. 3.5 Crores per MW generated thorough thermal

power and Rs. 6 Crores per MW when generated by hydro plants. He suggested that it is

possible to generate not less than 80,000 MW of power if we can have an understanding

with Nepal government or treaty to utilize river waters from Nepal.

By identifying the need to have good relationship with our neighbors, he noticed that it

is impossible for India to become a developed Nation if neighboring countries stay back

as under developed. Pakistan‟s ignorance of reciprocating INDIA as a Most Favored

Nation (MFN) costing them more than Rs. 1000 Crores per annum as the goods from

India reaches to them through Dubai.

11

By quoting that, nation should be built by their own courage and the combination of

ethos, culture and tradition; he praised China for their foreign policy. He emphasized that

China is the only country, which never subordinated to anyone from its inception. He said

that current trade between INDIA and CHINA amounts to 40 Billion USD is likely to reach

to 400 Billion by the year 2012 as there are maximum number of consumers exist in these

two countries.

In the concluding remark, on an optimistic note he said that, by the year 2020 there will

be 2 super powers in the world, and that would be INDIA and CHINA, as 1/3 rd of the

World‟s total population live in these 2 countries.

12


GUEST SPEAKER: Justice P. B. Sawant

DESIGNATION: Former Justice, Supreme Court of India

SUBJECT: Judicial Accountability

Justice P. B. Sawant, the former Justice, Supreme Court of

India delivered a lecture on “Judicial Accountability” to the

participants of MPG-04 on 20th October, 2008. After clarifying

the role of legislature and executive, he highlighted the

powerful position of Indian judiciary, which is different from

other countries. He also reminded the audience the procedures

for appointment of judges and what are the advantages and challenges to it. While

mentioning the various amendments to Indian Constitution, he illustrated in detail what is

meant by judicial review. He said, “As judges are more powerful, it is essential that they

should be more responsible and must be put under scrutiny”. Later he elaborated what is

expected from an ideal judge and what are the hassles to it. In his words a judge is

expected to be an honest hearer and his judgment must be based on facts and laws

applicable to it. But laziness, inaction, postponing the judgments, retirement without

judgments etc. are some experiences from India. Sometimes judges are dictated by

selfish motives for e.g. judgment about a company where he has his shares. Castes,

religious and political ideologies of the judge are also becoming the base of some

judgments. Some judgments are

made from the fear of some

pressure groups, media pressure

etc. He replicated how impartiality

and independence of judiciary is

crucial. After discussing the

available mechanisms to ensure accountability he explained with his own experience how

the disciplinary committees functions and how disciplinary procedures are politicized. He

concluded his session by mentioning that Independent Judicial commission and

transparency in selection procedures are the two preconditions to accomplish “judicial

accountability‟ a reality in India.

13


GUEST SPEAKER: Maj. Gen. R. K. Kaushal

DESIGNATION: Senior Specialist, National Disaster Management Authority

SUBJECT: Disaster Management Government of India

Maj. Gen. R. K. Kaushal, Senior Specialist,

National Disaster Management Authority,

had an interactive session with the students

of MPG-04, in the MIT SOG classroom on

October 20, 2008 on the topic “Disaster Management‟. In the first session he elaborated

the meaning of energy and its role in our lives. When we deflect the negative energy, we

feel at „peace‟ and free from „conflict‟. When we transmit positive energy we tend to

overcome resistance. He explained how „science and spirituality‟ impact our lives. He

stressed on the need to realize and practice our „meta physical energy‟ along with

„materialistic energy‟. He linked the concept of disaster management to our history since

the British era. In the second session, he explained Gandhian Philosophy in order to

explain how crucial self- disaster management is. He stressed on the adoption of

Gandhian principles in our lives. The importance of collective approach to environmental

calamities, extended family system,

universal brotherhood, women‟s role

in disaster management, spiritualizing

the economy etc. were the areas he

touched upon. Role of a mentor, need

to become an entrepreneur, man‟s

dignity, were some of the other points

that were discussed. Thus on the

whole he focused on individual

disaster management connected it to the concept of energy.

14


GUEST SPEAKER: Ms. Jodi Enda

DESIGNATION: Journalist

SUBJECT: US Presidential Election

MIT School of Government MPG-04 batch students attended an

eminent lecture and interactive session by Ms. Jodi Enda, who is an

expert in campaign studies and a journalist from USA. At University

of Pune on „US Presidential Election” She explained in detail her

experience as journalist how the campaigns of both Presidential

Candidates Barak Obama, who is the representative of Democrats

and John Mcgain, representing Replicans functioning and strength

and weaknesses of their campaign. She explained in details the amounts of money spend by both

candidates and how they created the fund for the same. She compared both candidates and

explained in detail the strategies for winning. She mentioned the likely replicons states and likely

democrat state and the swing states.

While answering a query, she elaborated in detail the electoral procedures in US, where every

states has got a number based on the population if one candidate is getting majority in that

state, he will get the total point from that state. Her speech informed in detail the taxation policy,

Insurance policy and foreign policy of both candidates and mentioned that in this election

ideologies will not work. US people are looking for a change and they will select presidents who

guarantee a positive change. She concluded her session by saying that USA‟s relationship with

India would continue to be the same,

regardless of whoever wins the presidential

post. The lecture was an enriching one for the

participants of MIT-SOG as they got the nitty-

gritty of the US president election procedures

and strategies for winning.

15

DATE: November 7, 2008

GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. B. G. Deshmukh

DESIGNATION: President, CASP & Former Cabinet Secretary, Govt. of India

SUBJECT: Indian political parties and our chaotic democracy

On 07-11-08, Dr. B. G. Deshmukh, former Cabinet

Secretary of India, President CASP, the distinguished

well-wisher of Indian politics had visited MIT School of

Government campus and delivered his address on the

topic “Indian Political Parties and our chaotic

democracy”. Indian Politics in its early ages –starting with

early 20th Century-had been analyzed by him as a West

Minister kind of one in which only a single party-viz

Congress- was prevalent which was also at par chaotic with the present day coalition kind

of structure which is ambiguous and unstable. Present day democracy in that sense can

be coined as pseudo or false democracy, wherein the credit of sanctioning the term is

closely associated with the play of political parties shielding one among them with their

own vested interests. Mr. Deshmukh‟s views on Democracy that where a Government by

the people and for the people wields its power in an unbiased manner. State power is

divided into mainly the three pillars viz Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. French

scholars had added the fourth pillar as media and the newly added one is the civil

society. Civil society per se according to Mr. Deshmukhji ensures the participative and

empowered democracy. Then comes the role of political parties, which are infact

instrumental to Government in a political system. Political parties in the form of a

responsible opposition also play its important role.

According to Mr. B. G. Deshmukh the structure of a political party also must be in a

democratic way within itself. It must hold an

enlightening ideology wherein the leaders

and others are distributed in their own

respective hierarchical order ensuring

decentralized functioning and internal

democracy. It shall not be rigid in any sense but better if resembles an umbrella

organization (eg Congress before independence), which can accommodate wider gamuts

and gain wider coverage. This idea as such looks back to the Gandhian version of politics

16

which is rich with inclusion of different castes and classes of society especially women,

the “Harijan” and which represents the want to have a self-sustained Economy. He had

explicitly pointed out the need of a political party in order to get in touch with the

Governmental power and to participate in the running of the state machinery. So people

come together, forms groups (eg. Ngo), get in rapport with political parties and

participate in state functioning .He also asserted that simply having groups are not

effective. If any a political party goes out of the virtuous circle of the expectation of the

civil society, it is vicious which demolishes the well-functioning of a Democracy.

Mr. Deshmukh noticed that Indian Democracy is a balanced platform of various interests

which arose out of its diversified nature and simply forming an association can‟t bring

one to the box, means that it necessitates bringing up of political parties in Indian

democracy and that is the reason for the mushrooming of political parties in the present

day scenario. He had looked at the post-independence politics of our country with the

lack of efficient national leadership, which ultimately led to coalitions of parties. In his

own words pre-election coalitions are good, but post-election coalitions are like closing

the mouth of the people who casted their votes with full faith and belief. Nowadays

Political parties forget the principles of Democracy and go with their own mileages only.

Political will must be come out of Leaders to curb this malignancy and to reframe and

reorganize Political parties and in that way we can re-organize our Democracy. Mr.

Deshmukh had wisely pointed out electoral reforms and well-functioning of Election

Commission to ensure the upbringing of the lost Democratic sense to our chaotic

democracy. Election Commission must act more proactively ensuring all measures for a

Democratic election the notable suggestion tabled by him was to balancing the money

flow during the time of election and that the Political parties must be insisted to keep all

pre-election accounts truly and properly which also can be subjected to check by the

authorities. Electoral reforms only, can bring about prevention of mushrooming of

Political parties. The nature of voting right can be reshaped and make it mandatory. In

order to win in a constituency certain percentage of votes can be mandated which may

force Political parties to come together and to adopt a strategy of gathering different

castes and classes of society to bag up maximum possible percentage of votes than

divide them and catch power in some backdoor ways.

In order to ensure the eligibility and qualifications of candidates, negative voting can also

be sanctioned to our voting system. If the percentage of negative votes is more than

50% then that election contest must be set aside and the panel of candidates must be

17

cancelled. State funding can be introduced in election process, which will ensure politics

free from games of heavy sugars of the society and political bargaining. The feudalistic

politics, which nowadays he describes existent in the form of family politics and castism

as the two major vitiating factors of present day politics. The idea of proportional

representation can make a larger democracy like India, more effective. We can even

think for multimember constituencies to ensure efficient and effective democracy.

He, again, pointed out the necessity of regular planning and updating of strategies that

must be kept on by Political parties and even in a coalition they must come out of their

stand aiming only in their own survival to remain in power. Coalition if not properly

wielded can bring about only vote bank politics. Diverse interests represent the

competing powers fighting for resources and to balance them we have to adopt a system

of healthy democracy wherein Political parties are the major institutions. He suggested,

why can‟t we go for a “National minimum Programme” instead of “Common Minimum

Programme” wherein Political parties stand together holding hand together at least in

critical issues of national importance? Now every questions and issues of reformation and

reorganization of our Political system is left in the hand of our budding leaders and Mr.

Deshmukhji delighted the audience with his inspiring thoughts and powerful vision in this

context to boost up our participants who are the aspiring to be the future Leaders of our

country as well as the world.

18


GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Ramnath Sonawane

DESIGNATION: Municipal Commissioner, Jalgaon

SUBJECT: Urbanization

Mr. Ramanath Sonawane,

the Municipal Corporation

Commissioner of Jalgaon

delivered a lecture on

„urbanization‟ for the

participants of MIT-SOG,

on 8th of November. He

started his lecture by

defining cities as engines of economic and social development creating jobs and

generating wealth through economies of scale. He urged the need to upgrade and

augment the cities for sustainable development. According to him National economic

growth and poverty reduction efforts will be increasingly determined by the productivity

of these cities and towns. He stressed on the need of a world-class urban system that

includes feasible political, economical and social environment. In his words, "in the

present scenario there is anarchy and criminalization of politics in the name of

democracy". Talking about the urbanization he explained that it is basically a movement

(migration) from rural to urban areas is still continuing. He also elaborated upon the

criteria for urbanization taken by censes of India.

While highlighting the growth in

urbanization he mentioned that today, 285

million people live in urban areas which

equates to 27.8% as per 2001 census. In

1991 Census the percentage of urban

population to total population was 25.7

percent. Thus a large population migrated

to urban areas in search of employment

opportunities. He stressed on the relevance of Article-243 that deals with panchayat and

19

municipalities. He also elaborated on the level of urbanization. He pointed that

urbanization rate is higher in Delhi with 93. 5%. In terms of absolute number of persons

living in urban areas, Maharashtra leads with 41 million persons, which is 14 percent of

the total population of the country. Talking about the issues in urban local bodies, he

mentioned poverty, unemployment, unauthorized development and lack of civic

amenities and basic infrastructure as the major concern. The other issues include the

unauthorized development, lack of civil amenities and basic infrastructure, and too much

dependency on private sector for transport and communication. It has been found that

there is greater unemployment in urban areas comparing to rural areas and among them

is basically the educated youth. He discussed about the reforms required for fulfilling the

concept of good governance. About urban reforms, he suggested resource mobilization

and model legislation.

He gave some practical measures that can be taken to overcome political stigmas, at

urban level: -They are as follows. (1) Proportional representation (2) mandatory

registration of voters. (3) Compulsory voting (4) need of intellectual debate and

discussions proactive role of pressure groups and (5) Citizen‟s participation by giving no

room for criminals. Mr. Ramnath Sonawaneji boldly stated in his speech "at present it is a

boneless bureaucratic system and ruthless political system". At bureaucratic level instead

of having a permanent system of employment, he stressed on the need of contractual

system based on performance, which will enable efficiency and effectiveness. He also

mentioned about Millennium Development Goals also. Through his entire speech he

informed the participants the various aspects of urban growth and also the relevance of

efficiency in urban administration and planning.

20


GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Mahesh Tapase

DESIGNATION: President, NCP Youth Wing, Maharashtra

SUBJECT: Opportunities for youth in Indian politics

Mr. Mahesh Tapase, President of N. C. P. Youth Wing,

Maharashtra delivered a lecture on “Opportunities for Youth

in Indian Politics” for the participants of MPG-04 on 20th

November 2008. He started his session by sharing his

experience and motivation, which brought to politics. In his

words he came into the politics when politics closed in his

house. He informed that even though his grandfather was the

freedom fighter, and former M. P. and governor, the second generation was totally away

from politics. He warned that those who want to come to politics must have enough

patience to wait for the right opportunity to prove his skills and abilities to rise to the

occasion. In his words, one has to create an atmosphere and grab the opportunities. He

mentioned that India is country having a lot of youth potential. As per 2001 census 51 %

of populations are young, which will rise to 60% by 2020. But he said majority of youth in

this country think that there is no future in politics as a career. He appealed to the

enrolment of youth to voters list, which according to him is the first step to involve youth

into the stream of politics. He pointed that in Austria as per the recent amendment, the

age of voting is fixed for 16 years, giving more responsibilities to the young populace.

By giving the example of Sharad Pawar as the efficient young chief Minister Maharashtra

he said that Youths of India would have to create their own space in politics. He informed

that Politics in India today is like a baton relay, passing the baton from grandfather to son

and then to grandson. To change this one have to create own space. Youths will not

only have to serve this country but will have to save this country today. Today‟s politics

has been digressed from the unique visions and ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi and

Jawaharlal Nehru and lost the spirit of nationalism. People have lost the Indian ness

among them. In his words “we have ignored our constitution”. Youths of India must

stand for the unity and diversity of this country”. While mentioning about the migration

issue, he said leaders of one state are sleeping over the issues of development whereas

the leaders of progressive state working on the development of that state. He also

21

mentioned the retrenchment in Citigroup due to the recent recession, which according

to him will lead to a civil war.

While discussing about the historical conditions of poor in India where the slogan to skip

the meal to feed India, and the emergence of the concept rationing, he informed the

audience the powerful slogan of Lal Bhadur Shashti “ Jai Jawan Jai Kissan”. Today

everyone bothered about his or her own stomach. People‟s mindset has become more

and more sectarian. Agreeing with Gandhijis words, “Be the change you want to see in

this world” it must come within. He also revealed that politics is not a separate entity. It

is part and parcel of everyone‟s daily life. Nothing in this country he said move without

political will. While mentioning about voting pattern he revealed that in all elections

voting pecrtage is less than 50 percentages and winning margin is very less. So in his

view 20 % of the people decide the fate of the country. Mentioning the relevance of

voting as a right, he said universal adult franchise is guaranteed by the constitution.

There were times in which only taxpayers; educated classes are allowed to vote. But

today any citizen above 18 years of age can vote. He also mentioned about the money

and muscle power dictating the votes in this country. He also stated that youths in India

also lost the sensitivity to various social issues. He discussed about the issues of

increasing HIV infections and teenage pregnancy, etc. Mr. Tapase commented that

today politician is not only lawmaker but they are becoming the law, sometimes above

the law. He discussed the degenerating situation in UP and Bihar where once the great

universities like Taxila and Nalanda were there. He clarified that government today

evolved from police state to welfare state. Today from e- governance country is leading

to corporate governing pattern. In the concluding remarks, Mr. Tapase mentioned the

sudden shift from agriculture to Industries and migration from urban to rural areas for

better opportunities. As there is paucity of irrigated land, farmland is shrinking and

natural resources are decreasing. The youths of India cannot sleep over these issues.

They will have to take responsibilities and have to take control of the situation. Otherwise

future will be bleak. Youths will have to grab Power.

22


GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Chandrakant Dalvi

DESIGNATION: Collector, Pune

SUBJECT: Role of Collector for District Administration

23


GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Rajeev Rajale

DESIGNATION: MLA, Maharashtra

SUBJECT: Indian Economy: Fact, Figures & Challenges

24


GUEST SPEAKER: Tanmayanand Maharaj

DESIGNATION: Eminent Philosopher & Thinker, Chhattisgarh

SUBJECT: Leadership Traits

25


GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Suresh Prabhu

DESIGNATION: MP ( Lok Sabha ) & Former Union Minister

SUBJECT: Alternative energy sources

The emerging issues today relating to the human

security which is indirectly hampering the growth

of the country as unemployment, poverty,

illiteracy, and climate change and along with that

the most important for the survival is the

availability of energy resources. The various issues

dealing with energy crisis in the villages were 45%

of the household do not have electricity however they use energy to serve their basic

needs.

An overview of the various kinds of alternative energy follows. At the outset we must

differentiate between alternative energy, and renewable energy. Alternative energy

refers to any form of energy which is an alternative to the traditional fossil fuels of oil,

natural gas and coal. Renewable energy is the forms of alternative energy that are

renewed by the natural processes of the Earth, such as sunlight from the sun or wind

from the air, and so are environmentally friendly.

While elaborating on different sources of energy he explained about solar power which

arises from the light of the sun, which can be harnessed through the use of solar power

cells, which are also called photovoltaic cells. Solar is also very environmentally friendly,

as it produces no pollution or waste byproduct, and it is therefore essential for a greener

future. Stressing on India to be the largest producer of wing energy, it can be used both

for electricity production on a large scale with multiple turbines to form what is called a

wind farm, or in other words a wind power plant, or, more infrequently, on a smaller

scale for home electricity production. Geothermal energy draws heat from the planet‟s

core. Thermal power stations are set up which absorb energy from the planet. The heat

from the planet boils a liquid which evaporates to turn turbines, producing the electricity.

Geothermal heating is becoming very popular, and is a cost-effective alternative to oil or

gas home heating. Similar for Hydroelectric power, Tidal power, Nuclear power plants do

not produce air pollution, so they are clean compared to oil, gas and coal. However,

26

nuclear power produces radioactive waste as a byproduct can replace fossil fuels to some

extent as they run out, where coal would last for the next 50 years.

He also mentioned about the energy and climate change where the clean source of

energy is important in order to reduce global warming. Alternative energy is attractive to

all different sorts of people, including investors and entrepreneurs. A main reason for this

is the fact that alternative energy can appeal to both individuals and families on the one

hand and to corporations and businesses on the other hand. As alternative energy

supplies become economically feasible they will be adopted by conventional businesses,

to the point of becoming mainstream in the future, and the companies that supply

alternative energy stand to make substantial profits by supplying energy to these

companies. At the last he concluded by mentioning about the need to have policies to

implement with private sector participation and providing technological methods and

systems which can help to overcome the energy needs for the future.

27

DATE: December 5, 2008

GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Laxmikant Deshmukh

DESIGNATION: Director, Sports & Youth Services, Maharashtra

SUBJECT: Role of Zila Parishad in Rural Development of Maharashtra

Rural development recognizes the true and pivotal

place of rural improvement in the total

development of nation. He stressed more on role

of human development in rural development. The

pace of any reform should suit the psyche of its

people and a gradual and systematic approach was

needed to do so. Individual development and in

the Indian tradition of recognizing the village

community as the custodian of human values

(Grama Sudhara). India‟s agriculture growth in the

last two decades, which has, been between 1% to 5% per Annum. The negative impact

of 1991 reforms were high lightened in which he included increase in absolute poverty

depletion of agricultural activity to sustain life, large scale farms suicides, migration to

urban areas due to deterioration of quality life in rural India. He stated reasons for need

of focus on rural development existence of the wide gap between India and bharat.

The Role of Zilla Parishad he mentioned that there are certain limitation with regards to

hard infrastructure, like lack of funds and there is too much of dependency on

government and district administration which in directly hampers the limitations in its

functioning. While mentioning the

role of human development in rural

development he believes that by

building human capabilities is the

fundamental objective as utilization

of full potential and creativity of the

people in accordance with their

needs and interests. It also includes

expansion of choices for people to help them lead a healthy and prosperous life.

28

The parameters on which it is measured are basis indicators are namely life expectancy at

birth (Health), adult literacy (Education) and the standard of living (GDP and per capita

income). The other indices developed by UNDP (United Nations Development

Programme) are GDI (Gender related Development Index) and (Human Poverty Index)

developed by economist noble prizewinner Dr. Amratya Sen. At the end part of the

lecture he discussed the strategies for human development at Zilla Parishad level

including macro level policy making and planning and its implementation. Elaborating on

the strategies he focused on the key areas namely Education, Health care, Women and

child development and sanitation. Implementation of this approach requires recognition

by the state of indigenous custom as the law governing land allocation and use, and

empowerment of local institutions to implement this responsibility to resolve disputes.

29


GUEST SPEAKER: Ms. Prabha Rau

DESIGNATION: Governor of Himachal Pradesh

SUBJECT: World Human Rights Day

On occasion of the “World Human Rights Day” the students expressed their views on the

topic human rights they emphasied on the

concept of human rights and need to respect the

human beings , culture, ethics, moral values,

religion, and also stressed on the human rights

violation by the non-states actors. Some of the

important points to elaborate were in fields of

education, unemployment, and food security The

later part was the speech by governor of Himachal

Pradesh Ms. Prabha Rau who appreciated the students for their concerns towards the

human rights violation.

She stated the importance of the term Human rights which is used to defend Human

freedom as well as destroy it. People tend to attach importance to particular human

rights issue according to ideology and political convenience. if a man is not to have

recourse or rebellion against tyranny and oppression, taking law into their own hands,”

Human Rights" should be built into the society as a natural rule. As a last resort only, law

should be applied as a protection. Human: member of the species, the single race Homo

sapiens. Whatever persons are called, or call themselves, wherever they live, they are

human. Therefore human rights: benefits to which people are entitled simply by virtue of

being human.

The commission held its first session in January 1947. The Human Rights Commission

formulates schemes for the protection of minorities and for prevention of discrimination

on the basis of caste, creed, sex and religion. It may consider any matter within the realm

of human rights which may impair the general welfare among nations. The Universal

Declaration of Human Rights , adopted by the General Assembly in 1948, elaborated

commitment to democracy by proclaiming that "the will of the people shall be the basis

of the authority of government" and guaranteeing to everyone the rights that are

essential for effective political participation. The International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights, adopted by the Assembly in 1966, conferred binding legal status on the

30

right of individuals to participate in the processes that constitute the conduct of public

affairs, and further strengthened the protection accorded to participatory rights and

freedoms. The middle and late 19th century saw a number of issues take centre stage.

Many of these in the late 20th century were considered as "Human Rights" issues. These

issues included slavery, serfdom, brutal working conditions, starvation wages and child

labor. In the Americas, this was known as "Indian Problem" at the time. In the United

States, a bloody war over slavery came close to destroying a country founded only eighty

years earlier on the premise that, "all men are created equal." The Indian parliament has

passed an Act to provide for the constitution of a National Human Rights Commission,

State Human Rights Commissions in States and Human Rights Courts for better

protection of human rights and for matters connected therewith or incidental there to.

It is enacted by Parliament in the Forty-fourth Year of the Republic of India. It is

known as Indian Human Rights Act, 1993. Political rights are an important feature of

human rights. Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country,

directly or through freely chosen representatives. But democracy does not mean merely

the right to vote and send representatives to the Parliament or the Legislature. It

includes much more. It postulates multiplicity of parties and a politically aware electorate

which can make an intelligent choice between the parties on the basis of their political

ideology and manifesto. If the electorate is not politically aware, and is guided by

consideration of race, religion, creed or colour or ethnicity, democracy can go off the

rails. The importance of social rights in which the family is the natural and fundamental

unit of society. It is entitled to full protection by society and the state. Motherhood and

childhood are entitled to special care and assistance. The Right to Education where

education at least in the elementary level should be free. It is very important that the

citizens be educated. It is only then that they will be able to participate in the democratic

process and fight when there rights are denied. The cultural rights guarantee the people

the right to the protection of the moral and material interests resulting from any

scientific, literary or artistic production of which he is the author. Everyone has the right

to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancements and its benefits. She stressed

more on Gandhian Philosphy for explaining the cause and solution for the upliftment of

the society. At the end she mentioned the importance of education as important tool to

eradicate poverty, unemployment, and stressed on having improving relationship with

the neighbours and overcoming the geographical boundaries to share our culture and

thoughts.

31


GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Jayant Umaranikar

DESIGNATION: Additional Director General of Police, Maharashtra

SUBJECT: Terrorism- Emerging issues

The emerging issue of terrorism as not spared any part of the country as the

terrorist do not have any geographical barriers or international pressure which they

overcome most of the times. The dastardly and bloody terrorist attack on Mumbai has

brought the threat to individual security where the need to be have a rethinking about

the roots of terrorism. The threat to individual security which in turn has direct impact on

human security. The roots to understand the cause of terrorism is also important;

however one needs to look at the security of an individual by the state. Where internal

security which is defined to guarantee order public security to protect people and normal

function of the governing systems and democratic institution. Various reasons for conflict

as violence prone system as society has a social and political reason which hampers the

development and threat to internal security. For long we are dealing with terrorism

however, strict law for Anti-terrorism has still not formed worldwide.

While taking about the recent terrorist attacks he mentioned that similar attacks

with the same manner were carried out in Mumbai in 1993 where many promises were

given plans were implemented and again the same systemic failure occurred. The most

important things to look at today are the counter measure to tackle terrorism. the

drawback of the operation with the recent terrorist attacks were similar of 1993 where

we still do not have a separate intelligence wing, equipment‟s with the police

32

department, depoliticizing the police, were he explained the various duties the police

personal have to do in their services to protect the citizens. In order to prevent a future

terrorist attack we need to have the higher level of intelligence sharing, coordination

amongst the different agencies like the Military intelligence, RAW and most important of

all is the awareness and preparedness of the forces and the society to avoid a future

attack. He also mentioned that

terrorist incidents are rich in

dramatic, shocking and tragic

human interest aspects, and the

media, understandably, tends to

overcome them. He believes that

the media should work in

coordination with the police forces

in such terror attacks as it will help the forces to work more effectively and most of the

information will not be shown or disclosed during the operations. At the end he stated

the society should maintain law and order in such situation and coordinate the police

forces in case need arises.

33


GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Maninder Singh Bitta

DESIGNATION: Chairman, National Anti-Terrorist Front

SUBJECT: How to combat Terrorism

34


GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Budhoji Rao Mulik

DESIGNATION: Krish Ratna, Agricultural Scientist

SUBJECT: Prioritizing agriculture will only lead India to a Super Power in 2020

Farmers are just a part of the cultivation system but their

real problems are never looked upon. It's very sad to note

the facts that India being the 2nd largest populous country

in the world, with the income of 82 crores of people as less

as Rs.20/- per day. The detail below shows the economic

condition of the majority of people. 7 Crores of people

earns/gets Rs 9/- per Day. 16 Crores of people earns/gets

Rs 12/- per Day. 20 Crores of people earns/gets Rs 15/- per Day. 39 Crores of people

earns/gets Rs. 20/- per Day. In the Indian Government every parliament member spends

about 2.6 Lacs per month where the maximum Of the Indian population approx. 82% are

earning/ living with just less than Rs.20/- per day. It is also very distressing to note that

the Annual Budget for agriculture in the Year 1951 being 25% has been limited to just

2% of the annual budget by the year 1990. Since the start of globalization in 1990 all the

ruling parties have turned a blind eye to the farmers by just paying attention to the

technology sectors. As the time passed by Agriculture and especially farmers are given

the least priority. Agriculture is purely dependent on the nature's discretion and is very

vulnerable to floods, cyclones, droughts etc. It is the only sector which is most vulnerable

to natures' deeds. Foreign countries have good protection policies and systems for the

wellbeing of farmers and they are protected

from any natural calamities and economic

changes in the form of Insurance. They are

very well protected by their respective

governments. There it is a dignity to be as a

farmer and India the situation is quite

contrary and here the farmers are distressed

with insecurity. Though the Central

government of India announced waiver of farming loans to the tune of about Rs. 60,000

crores. It‟s not sufficient to change the current sufferings of the farmers.

35

Farmers need to be given a better package for them to be confident that they are

protected from the natural disasters. It will be a good Idea if the political leaders who are

ruling the government make a policy such as “SAZs" (Special Agriculture Zones) to

declare some good and attractive packages to the farming community. It's worthwhile

giving the farming community enough confidence to look at the agriculture as the good

prospect rather than looking cultivation as a hardship. It will become very difficult and

food shortages may arise in the very near future if the farming community is not properly

addressed. Technological progress is always important but not at the expense of the

downfall of basic amenities (i.e., food, water, clean environment). As the global

requirements of the food is also growing and the Indian population is also growing at a

rapid rate producing the required food through the agriculture is only the way where we

can be self-sustainable and progress forward.

36

DATE: January 29, 2009

GUEST SPEAKER: Ms. Sahista Amber

DESIGNATION: All India Muslim Personal Law Board

SUBJECT: Women Personal Law in India

37

DATE: April 7, 2009

GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Sunil Shastri

DESIGNATION: Lecturer in Marine Policy, the University of Hull, U.K.

SUBJECT: Environmental Governance & Ocean Resources

38

DATE: May 23, 2009

GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Prataprao Jadhav

DESIGNATION: Leader, Shiv Sena, Maharashtra

39

DATE: July 15-16, 2009

GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Jai Prakash

DESIGNATION: Former Union Deputy Minister for Petroleum Chemical

& Communications, Government of India

40

Local Field Visits

41

Congress Bhavan, Pune

The participants of MPG (Batch-04) from MIT SOG, Pune, visited Pune city Congress

Committee office on 13-09-08 with the aim of understanding how a party office works at the

bottom level as well as to make an acquaintance with the local congress tenures. The office is

situated at Pune near Municipal Corporation. It was a good initiative for us to start from the

ingrained level before going for the principal offices as well as for the eminent leaders of the

nation. So we started from the congress committee office in Pune. They arranged a warm

welcome for all of us.

It was spellbinding to know that the building was first elected in 1937, renewed and

extended in 1942 and that the office is well functioning in the premises from this very early days.

Mahatma Gandhi also paid a visit here. Among his rousing memoirs we can see his holograph

with signature, in the office. It was a haunt for the congress freedom fighters since 1930„s. Later

on many celebrated congress leaders like Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and etc. also made their

visits and the office is a liver arm for the Congress Centre leadership as far as the politics in the

western India is concerned.

An official meeting with the Pune City Congress Committee President Mr. Adv. Abhay

Chajed was arranged. He well explained us the hierarchy of different tenures in his party.

According to him the local political activities are more or less of a collective individual efforts. The

“Centre” may support but often not financially. So the raising up and collection of funds at the

local level, initiation, organisation and management of different political activities which concocts

the general public and the party at the nubile level as well as motivational and catalytic support

to the ordinary members at the basic level comes only from the local offices only. The different

tenures starts with National President at the top, goes with state President, District President,

Block President and ultimately ends with Ward President in the foundational level.

Congress also keeps its own wings like Sevadal, National Students Union of India (NSUI),

Youth Congress, Indian National Trade Union Congress and Mahila Congress. They are garnering

and regiment sing the individual power and channelizing these different streams to go with the

main stream within the party in the process of building up of the developmental politics of our

nation; Of course, politically ,the main stream issues may far apart from the local issues. Different

tenures are the connecting link between individual members and the higher ups in the party. Mr.

Suresh Kalmadi, M.P. from congress represents Pune Constituency at present. He also chairs at

this office. The office is well equipped with a good library where from we can have books but

mostly on congress ideology, starting from the pre- independence era. Membership is open to all

and the library is open to general public for reference only. Bagging a membership in congress is

not a sophisticated progress; but as simple as to the filling up your Application Forum and

payment of a membership fee. Your dedication to work with the party is the worth counted. The

42

peaceful atmosphere in the office took us to the rejoicing memories of former congress leaders.

Certainly, Late. Mr. Yashwantrao Chavan, the first Chief Minister of Maharashtra, after the

separation of the State of Maharashtra in the year 1960 and NarayanaPrabhada are well

remembered in their statues.

Again, we got an opportunity to meet the Vice President of the committee, Mr. Arvind

Shinde in his office at Samrajya Hotel, Pune. He is a well-established businessman as well as an

unbeaten counsellor to the Pune Muncipal Corporation for the last three consecutive elections

from his ward. He shared with us some of his professional experiences. Pune Municipal

Corporation also works under “The Bombay Provincial Muncipal Corporation Act 1949 (BPMC

Act 1949).Under the Law ,in every Corporation there is a General Body of Councillors who are

the elected representatives of different wards or political units in the grassroots level. The

General Body elects the Mayor who is the in charge of a corporation. The election is held in every

five years. There are also permanent office holders apart from the elected members in a

corporation.

The Pune Municipal Corporation is kept as a clean and green city with well-equipped and

well managed cleaning and garbage management system and by the protection and promotion

of the greenery respectively. In every ward the cleaning, waste management etc. are well

organised all the round of a year under the guidance of Engineers appointed in this behalf.

There are a lot of traits and skills that one can sort out from a politician. The dedication to

the profession of Social and political work, the energy level that a leader must keep ,the power of

determination, the inspirational traits that he follows etc. can be well assessed from his attitude.

It creates positive changes and development in our society. The visit as such gave us an insight

over the local administration as well as the local political system which is the pivot of main stream

politics as well

43

Hivre Bazar

MPG-04 participants together with their faculty Mrs. Vanisree Ramanathan visited Hivre

Bazar, a village in Maharashtra‟s Ahmednagar district. Mr. Popat Rao Pawar, the village Sarpanch,

who is famous for his tireless efforts for the village, has welcomed MIT School of Government

team. Mr. Pawar briefed the students about the activities that he had adopted along with the

villagers to convert the village from water scarce to a self-sufficient model village. He revealed

the relevance of urban-rural collaboration and mutual understanding between both for the

nation‟s development. The basic policy adopted by Hivre Bazar village was need-based policy.

As water scarcity was the major problem identified for the miseries of the villagers, water

conservation was the first priority. With the support of the local labor donations, the panchayat

built 40,000 contour trenches around the hills to conserve rainwater and recharge ground water.

Residents took massive plantations and forest regeneration activities. Mr. Pawar stressed the

need for long term planning for the villages, and he portrayed the relevance of village youth‟s

participation to achieve this. He informed that today in Hivre Bazar, it is the Gram Sabha, which

budgets for the water. He elaborately explained the nitty gritty of both community farming and

dry land farming. He also highlighted the relevance of education in changing the mindsets,

attitudes and awareness of people, which is the precondition for any development. He revealed

that as per the 1992 Household survey, 74% of the families in Hivre Bazar were Below Poverty

Line (BPL). But today only three families are BPL. Hivre Bazar adopted the policy of no land

selling to outsiders. While asking about the elections and party ideologies in the village, he said,

“in Hivre Bazar, there is no single party, villagers are having the freedom to vote any party but

money and drink formula will not work in the village. As sarpanch he mentioned that he don‟t

have any affiliation any particular political party. Youth and women organisations are active in

Hivre Bazar and delegations of duties were followed. Education, health and sanitation have been

prioritized by the panchayat. The villages have an Emergency fund created to deal with

emergency needs of the people. Villages provide zero percentage interest rate loans for the

marriages of their daughters. The panchayat created bio gas plants also. After question answer

sessions, the pawarji clarified that identifying the root problems, psychosocial analysis of that

problems and people‟s participation (right from identifying the problems and innovative solutions

to that) is the crucial steps for the village development. He said that if there is a will there is a

way. The villagers and the government should be partners in the process of development but

villagers must be in the driver‟s seat. In his concluding remarks he mentioned that people‟s

participation is the essential for any village development and how the nearby villagers are

motivated to take Hivre Bazar village development model.

44

YASHADA

MPG-04 participants visited Yashwantrao Chavan Academy of Development

Administration (YASHADA) on 21st January 2009 as part of their field visit. YASHADA is the

Administrative Training Institute of the government of Maharashtra, and meets the training needs

of the government departments and rural and

urban non-officials and stakeholders.

YASHADA emerged to provide consultancy

services in development and public

administration, to serve as the apex institute for

the collection and dissemination of information

regarding development administration. MPG

participants visited Yashada library, Centre for

Information Technology, Right to Information Cell, Centre for Disaster Management, State

Institute for Urban development and Centre for Public Governance. After this visit, MPG-04

participants had lecture and interactive session on Child Rights and Child Labor Issues in India,

Right to Information Act and Disaster Management by experts from the respective departments.

In the afternoon participants had an opportunity to interact with a young dynamic person, Shri. S.

P. Kadu Patil (I. A. S), D. D. G and Director of (State Institute of Rural Development (S. I. R. D),

Yashada.

He talked on Rural Development

in India, with a special focus on Panchyati

Raj. During his interaction he covered

various issues affecting rural people like

rural administration, Housing problem,

Health, Education, poverty, fund

allocation, Self-Help Groups, Agriculture,

Sanitation, Governance, role of

Sarpanch, money lenders, banking issues etc. He focused more on poverty alleviation and

empowerment of local people and their participation in their own development. He concluded

with the idea of people centered development is ideal for village development. In a nutshell the

MPG-04 participant‟s visit to YASHADA was informative and thought provoking.

45

Katewadi

The students from The Hague University and the students of MIT School of Government went for

a field visit to a model village – Katewadi, Tal. Baramati, Dist. Pune. The field visit was held from

March 20, 2009 to March 22, 2009. The highlight of this field visit was the fact that all the

students, including the students from Netherlands stayed in the houses of the villagers in groups

of 2/3, which itself was a great learning experience, especially for the foreign students. The

students were overwhelmed by the hospitality shown by the villagers. The students visited

Sharda Milk Collection Centre, Chhatrapati Cooperative Sugar Factory, Vasundhara Community

Radio Centre, Wrestling Centre, Primary School, Vidya Pratisthan educational complex,

Panchayat Samiti, Krishi Uttpann Bazar Samiti, Dynamics Dairy, Winery as well as the Aviation

Academy at MIDC in their 3 days visit to Katewadi. The students were highly influenced by the

kind of development that has taken place in Katewadi and they also understood the role of

political leadership in the development of the village in terms of the efforts taken by Shri Sharad

Pawarji (Hon. Union Minister for Agriculture), Shri Ajitdada Pawar (Minister for Water Resources,

State of Maharashtra) and especially of Smt. Sunetra Pawar, whom the villagers revere a lot.

46

Dalit Bastis / Urban Slums

On March 26, 2009 the team also visited poverty-stricken areas of Pune to understand the

realities of the people living in those areas. They visited the slums of Yerwada, Laxminagar, as

well as Laxminagar Muncipal School, and Kondwa region. An analysis on the issues and problems

of the people living in this area was done. Lack of proper housing is the main issue coupled with

issues such as unemployment, illiteracy, lack of toilet facilities, water shortage, alcoholism, big

sized families, garbage etc. They also observed that even though people of this area are poor

and lack various facilities, they seem to be happy which the main learning outcome was for the

foreign students.

47

Sarhad

The team visited an NGO named Sarhad in Pune on March 30, 2009. Sarhad (meaning Border) is

a Non - Governmental organization (NGO) based at Pune, Maharashtra. Sarhad has devoted itself

for the upliftment of the civilians of these areas esp. women, children and orphans who have

been affected by the conflict. They are running a residential school for around 76 children from

Jammu and Kashmir. Some of these children are those whose parents died in the crossfire

between militants and security forces. Some are even children of militants. The Dutch delegation

was informed about the work of Sarhad by Mr. Sanjay Nahar, the President of Sarhad himself.

The students taking education in this school also interacted with the Dutch delegation.

48

Model Parliament

49

Model Parliament

The Every Year MIT-SOG organizes a model

parliament. The motive to have a model parliament is to

showcase the functioning and procedures of the

parliament to

the audience.

This time MIT-

SOG had the

speaker from of the legislative assembly of

Andhra Pradesh KR Suresh Reddy,

accompanied by his colleagues, and the

chairman of the MIT Group Dr. Vishwanath Karad, the dean of the MIT-SOG Mr. Rahul V.

Karad were present on the occasion. Also Student from various colleges and institutions

participated in the model parliament as audience to understand the functioning and

debates on particular issues.

The first thirty minutes was the session of question hour, as presided by the Hons.

Speaker KR Reddy as he appreciated the ruling party statements on the issues related to

economic development with regards to the special economic zone (SEZ). Recession and

alternative energy resources.

The most interesting moments were related to adjournment motion, in which the

most burning issue was terrorism, however when it came to a stage whether to agree

with the PM statements on

countering terrorism both the

parties agreed to resolve the issue

on common grounds which

towards the nation.

50

Convocation Ceremony

51

Convocation Ceremony

Date: 15 thJanuary 2010

On January, 15th 2010, MAAER's

Maharashtra Institute of Technology's

School Of Government (MIT-SOG), held

their Convocation Ceremony which was

presided over by Hon. Shri. Vayalar Ravi:

Union

Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs. The MPG-04

Course Completion Certificates were distributed to

the MPG-04 participants by honorable Shri. Vayalar

Ravi on that auspicious occasion. The ceremony

commenced with the procession led by Prof. (Gp.

Capt.) D. P. Apte, Director MIT-SOG, holding the Mandanda in his hands, accompanied

by Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad, Founder President, MAEERs MIT group of Institutions,

Chief Guest of of the Ceremony, Hon. Shri. Vayalar Ravi: Union Minister for Overseas

Indian Affairs, Shri. Ulhas Pawar, Member of Legislative Council, Maharashtra Prof. Rahul

V. Karad, Chief Initiator and Dean, MIT School of Government, the faculty members and

the MPG 04 participants who were well-attired in their convocation robes. The function

started with the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries.

Prof. (Dr.) Shrikant Paranjpe, Accademic Advisor MIT-SOG gave the welcome address

emphasizing the initiation and spirit of MIT-School of Government and the planned

future activities for this program. As per the tradition of MIT, Prof. Dr. Vishwnath D.

Karad, Founder President, of MAEER's MIT group of Institutions felicitated both

Honorable Vayalar Ravi and Shri. Ulhas Dada Pawar. Mr. Nixon Fernando, the course

head, read the course report, which depicted in nutshell the journey of MIT-SOG in the

academic year 2008-09. The heart of convocation

ceremony showed too much of enthusiasm. The

participants enjoyed each moment while receiving

their graduation certificates at the hands of

Honorable Shri. Vayalar Ravi. Special certificates

for the outstanding participants were announced.

52

The Best participant award provided to the participant for his/her overall performance in

the academic year. "The Best participant award" is received by Mr. Ashok Kumar, from

Hyderabad. The Award for the Academic excellence" delivered to Mr. Dinesh Bhatt. A

feeling of nostalgia prevailed, as participants remembered the good times they spent

whether it was the pre-poll survey they carried out in Chattiagarh or the International

Study Tour to London, Paris, Geneva, Belgium and Hague, where they visited the WTO,

UNESCO Peace I Palace, House of Lords and

European Parliament.

The award distribution is followed by the

address of Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad,

spirit behind the MIT-School of government.

He stressed the vision and mission of MIT-

SOG and emphasized the philosophy and

values that drive MAEERS MIT Group. Shri. Ulhas Dada Pawar, member of Maharashtra

Legislative Council also addressed the gathering and highlighted the path of Honorable

Shri. Vayalar Ravi's journey to the current position, right from the college days as the

student activist. In his convocation speech, Hon'ble Shri. Vayalar Ravi, warned the

participants to be up to date, in the changing era of new technology. He also

emphasized the role of youth in the new educational system. He shared his experience to

the budding leaders that donate dream an MP and MLA seat right soon, to be a leader

one must know the grassroots and the pulse of the people, first and work hard for them.

The session concluded with the vote of thanks by Prof. (Gp. Capt) D. P. Apte, Director,

MIT-SOG.

53

Academic Team

54

Director

Prof. (Gp Capt) D P Apte

Faculties

Mrs. Vanisree Ramanathan

Mr. Kapil Chandrayan

Mr. Prafulla Adagale

55

Academic Awards

56

Best Academic Performance

Mr. Dinesh Bhatt

Best Participant

Mr. Ashok Duptalagatta

57

Advertisement

Date post:	05-Dec-2014
Category:	Education
Upload:	maeers-mitsog
View:	266 times
Download:	8 times