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Context: The Centre has announced a series of events across the country under the banner of the 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign to mark the anniversary of India's independence in August. The campaign aims to celebrate the diversity and unity of the nation, as well as to honour the sacrifices and contributions of freedom fighters and martyrs.

Details

• The 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign is a part of the larger 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' initiative launched by the Centre earlier this year to commemorate 75 years of India's independence. The initiative aims to showcase India's progress and potential in various fields, as well as to inspire and empower the youth to contribute towards nation-building.
• The Centre has invited people from all walks of life to participate in the campaign by sending soil samples from their native places or places of historical significance to the Ministry of Culture. The soil samples will be collected at various centres and then transported to Delhi for the creation of the garden.
• The Centre has also planned other events such as flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes, quiz competitions, essay writing contests, webinars, seminars, lectures, film festivals, book fairs, etc. in different parts of the country as part of the campaign. The events will focus on spreading awareness and appreciation of India's rich heritage, culture, history and achievements.

Key Components of the Campaign

Shilaphalakam

• Installing a memorial plaque in every gram panchayat or village, bearing the names of the freedom fighters, defence personnel, CAPF personnel, and state police personnel who have laid down their lives in the line of duty.
• It will serve as a reminder of their courage and sacrifice and will inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps. The installation will be done through the MGNREGA scheme, using local materials and resources.

Vasudha Vandhan

• Planting 75 saplings of indigenous species in every gram panchayat or village, creating an Amrit Vatika (a sacred grove) that will symbolize the renewal of 'Mother Earth'. The saplings will be nurtured by the local community and will provide ecological benefits such as soil conservation, water recharge, biodiversity enhancement, and carbon sequestration.

Veeron Ka Vandan

• Saluting the freedom fighters and their families, as well as the retired and deceased defence, CAPF, and state police personnel and their families. This will acknowledge their contribution to the nation's freedom and security and will express gratitude and respect for their service. It will be done at various levels, from gram panchayats to district headquarters.

Collection of Soil

• Collecting soil from every gram panchayat or village by young volunteers and others, who will bring it to the block level in 'Mitti Kalash' (earthen pots). The soil will represent the diversity and richness of the country's land and culture and will be used to create a unique garden in Delhi.

Amrit Vatika

• One of the main highlights of the campaign is the development of a unique garden called Amrit Vatika along the Kartavya Path in Delhi. The garden will be made with soil brought from all parts of the country, representing the different regions, cultures and traditions of India. The soil will also symbolise the blood and sweat of the brave men and women who fought for the country's freedom.
• The Amrit Vatika will be inaugurated on August 15 by Prime Minister, who will also pay tributes to the martyrs and freedom fighters at the National War Memorial. The garden will be open to the public from August 16 onwards, and will showcase various cultural and artistic performances, exhibitions and workshops related to the theme of 'Meri Maati Mera Desh'.

Events in Urban Areas

• Organizing events and activities in urban areas, from local bodies to municipal corporations. The events will include cultural programs, exhibitions, seminars, competitions, quizzes, rallies, etc. that will showcase the history, heritage, achievements, and aspirations of the country. The events will also involve participation from various sections of society, such as students, youth, women, senior citizens, etc.

Conclusion

• The 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign is a unique and innovative way of celebrating the 75th anniversary of India's independence. It is a tribute to the heroes who have sacrificed their lives for the nation and a message to the citizens to cherish and protect their land and environment. It is also a way of instilling a sense of patriotism and responsibility among the people and strengthening their bond with their country.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. How will 'Vasudha Vandhan' be achieved during the 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign? A) By organizing cultural events in villages. B) By planting 75 saplings of indigenous species in every gram panchayat or village. C) By constructing new community centres. D) By promoting digital literacy in rural areas. Answer: B Explanation: 'Vasudha Vandhan' involves planting 75 saplings of indigenous species in every gram panchayat or village, creating an Amrit Vatika (a sacred grove) that will symbolize the renewal of 'Mother Earth'.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-plans-nationwide-events-under-meri-maati-mera-desh-campaign-in-august/article67116911.ece