Caritas India launched ADHIKAR programme- A Right Based Approach for entitlements

Gorakhpur witnessed diversified stakeholders presence in ADHIKAR launching

Caritas India officially launched ADHIKAR programme on 24^th, July 2012 in the auditorium of  Purvanchal Gramin Seva Samiti, Gorakhpur. Rajesh Tripati- honourable  M.L.A of Chillupar, Gorakhpur launched the programme by lighting the lamp in the auspicious presence of Most. Rev.Thomas Thurithimattam-Bishop of Gorakhpur, Mr. S.S Asuthosh-Chief Development Officer of Gorakhpur, Mr. Srivastav- Deputy Manager of Purvanchal Gramin  Bank , Mr. K.J. Srivastav- DDM, NABARD, Fr James Parekudiyil-Vicar General, Mr. PU Francis, Zonal Manager, Caritas India and  Fr. Varghese, Executive Director of PGSS. Officials from Block Development Office and local banks were present in the function. In addition, representatives from PRIs such as Pradhans from 6 GPs, ward members from ADHIKAR operational areas, Diocesan Social Work directors, coordinators, animators, accountants and Caritas India North Zone staff witnessed the launching function.

Children from JEEVANDHARA, a rehabilitation centre for handicapped, staged a prayer dance. Fr. Varghese, Executive Director of PGSS welcomed the dignitaries, participants and media representatives.

Mr. Francis, in his speech, extended warm welcome to all the participants on behalf of the Executive director of Caritas India.   He shared the rationale of introducing ADHIKAR programme incorporating principles of catholic social teachings. He also emphasised the need of community mobilization for availing their due rights and DSSS have the responsibility to facilitate this process.   

                                       

Mr. Girish Peter, State Officer- Bihar made a presentation on Caritas India highlighting themes, programmes, interventions in emergencies and so on. A documentary film on Caritas India  was screened in the programme. Then, Mr. Ashok Kumar Sinha, Development consultant shared with the group on concept, strategies of ADHIKAR, responsibilities of the different stake holders like Community, PRI, Government institutions etc.  

Mr. S.S Asuthosh, Chief Development Officer of Gorakhpur stated that if people have courage, nothing is impossible and he gave his good wishes to Caritas India and partners for the successful implementation of the program.

Followed by his speech, a dance performance was staged   by the children from a local school.  After the dance program, Fr. Varghese made a presentation on   PGSS.  He highlighted on the vision, Mission, Strategies, Operation area, Programs being implemented by PGSS.   That was followed by a song by MSW student.

 Later Mr. Srivastav, Manager, Purvanchal Gramin Bank thanked the organizers of the program and stressed the relevance and importance of the work by Caritas India and partners in transferring the entitlements and rights to the people.  He also stressed on role of CBOs and PRIs in materializing entitlements, convergence of these groups is essential for any right based approach program. 

   

Mr. K.J. Srivastav DDM –NABARD- expressed his good wishes to Caritas India and PGSS for the success of ADHIKAR project.  He shared with the group that 40000 NGOs are registered in Gorakhpur but only a few NGOs are working effectively and PGSS is in the frontline among them.  He appreciated the work of PGSS and offered full support to ADHIKAR programme. This was followed by Group song by MSW students. 

Then Mr. Rajiv Tripati, MLA addressed the group.    During his address he said “I am happy to be part of this program.   Adhikar is one “pahel”.  Hosla should be mingled with willingness to work for good, should be our motto. Hosale ke sat apke niyant is also important for the success of any program.   He also expressed his concern on reaching benefits to eligible persons and NGOs have to play a pivotal role in facilitating that process. He extended his good wishes to Caritas India and partners for the success of the project. He assured his support to ADHIKAR project.

Rt. Rev. Bishop Thomas expressed his best wishes to Caritas India and PGSS for the success of the project.  Authorities should realize their responsibilities and discharge their duties to the poor and needy.  He stressed on” conversion” of attitude and mind set among service providers.  Only if this conversion happens, the poor people will be able to access their rights and obtain the entitlements.  Then the Bishop of Gorakhpur diocese inaugurated the blog of “ADHIKAR” programme. Mr Anjan Bag oriented the partners on objectives and relevance of blog to audience. The programme came to an end by vote of thanks by Fr. Biju, treasurer of PGSS.