C.D. - Forum for Sustainable Development Events

The Sustainable Development Forum's study tour to Gujarat commenced on November 24, 2023, under the adept guidance of Professor Evelyn Benis, Head of the MSW Department. This educational expedition encompassed visits to four districts, nine non-governmental organizations, six tribal villages, and various tourism destinations, including religious and national heritage sites.

The study tour facilitated interactions with prominent figures such as Fr. Stany Pinto SJ, Fr. Rakesh, Fr. Issac Rumao, Fr. Jay Raj, Fr. Francis Chinnapa, Mr. Lakhan Vai Pravasi, Mr. Chandrakanth Tadvi, Mr. Rajendra, Ms. Shakuntala Ben, Ms. Urvashi Ben, Ms. Pramila Ben, and Dr. Minakshi. These individuals shared their knowledge and expertise in community development.

Lakhan Vai Pravasi and Shakuntala Ben, notable social activists, actively participated in the Narmada Bachao Andolan alongside Ms. Medha Patkar. The organizations visited predominantly focus on tribal, rural, and urban development, implementing support programs aimed at fostering community self-reliance and empowerment.

Fr. Stany and Rakesh played a crucial role in tribal community development, emphasizing women's education and empowerment, legal aid, and nutrition programs for children. Mr. Rajendra's organization is renowned for rural development, while Fr. Issac Rumao focuses on urban slum community development. Dr. Minakshi from Krishi Vigyan Kendra provides capacity-building training for farmers, enabling them to sustain their livelihoods through various government support programs.

The study tour also brought attention to the challenges faced, including language barriers (with Gujarati being the local language) and logistical issues. Despite these challenges, English-speaking locals facilitated communication. The participants derived immense knowledge and skill enhancement from this real-field experience, learning values such as simplicity, humility, sharing, and sacrificing from the people they interacted with.

The scholars also became aware of the challenges faced by affected village communities, particularly regarding property rights and livelihood opportunities. They witnessed instances of the misuse of public-private partnerships in Narmada District, where private owners employed various tactics for the forced evacuation of tribals from their land. The inadequacies in implementing the Land Acquisition Act of 2013, specifically regarding compensation and rehabilitation, were also highlighted.

In summary, the study tour was a resounding success, providing participants with invaluable insights and experiences that will be shared and disseminated to benefit others interested in sustainable development initiatives. There were 8 students who were part of the study tour accompanied by a faculty member.