Recognizing Advocacy Champions: PVCHR and JanMitra Nyas Announce 'Jan Swasthya Mitra Samman' Awardees

In a stellar celebration of unwavering dedication to public health, People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) and JanMitra Nyas proudly announce the recipients of the 'Jan Swasthya Mitra Samman' (People Health Friendly Awards). This prestigious recognition is reserved for individuals who have not only championed the cause of implementing Front-of-Pack Labeling (FOPL) for unregulated packaged foods but have also demonstrated their influence through substantial social media following. The awardees – Mr. Parvej Ahmed, Pandit Rakesh Ranjan Tripathi, Shri Shashi Pratap Singh, and Mr. Vikram Pandey – are acknowledged for their outstanding efforts aimed at contributing significantly to reducing deaths attributed to non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Exceptional Awardees with Social Media Impact:

1. Mr. Parvej Ahmed – Distinguished Senior Journalist: Mr. Ahmed's influence extends beyond traditional media, with a whopping 32.7K followers on Twitter. His impactful post link not only reflects his commitment to public health but also the widespread support and recognition of his efforts in the online community.

2. Pandit Rakesh Ranjan Tripathi – Secretary General of Akhil Bharatwarshiya Brahman Mahasabha of UP: Pandit Rakesh Ranjan Tripathi brings his advocacy to the forefront with a significant social media following. His influence within the online space complements his role as the Secretary General of Akhil Bharatwarshiya Brahman Mahasabha, emphasizing the vital connection between awareness and action.

3. Shri Shashi Pratap Singh – Founder of the Equal Party: Shri Shashi Pratap Singh, with an impressive 11K followers on Facebook, has transformed his platform into a hub for impactful advocacy. His post link not only garners support but also showcases his role as a significant influencer in UP politics.

4. Mr. Vikram Pandey – Founder of the Indian Roti Bank: Mr. Vikram Pandey, the Founder of the Indian Roti Bank, leverages his influence with a dedicated following. His holistic approach to public health advocacy has created waves online, fostering collaboration among different stakeholders in the fight against non-communicable diseases.

Acknowledging Social Media Impact:

PVCHR and JanMitra Nyas recognize not only the exceptional efforts but also the significant online impact these awardees have had on public health. The impressive number of followers on platforms like Twitter and Facebook speaks volumes about their ability to engage, inspire, and mobilize a broader audience.

The social media influence of awardees like Mr. Parvej Ahmed and Shri Shashi Pratap Singh has turned them into influential champions for further advocacy. Their posts have not only amplified the message but have also created a ripple effect, encouraging broader participation in the cause.

Conclusion:

The 'Jan Swasthya Mitra Samman' not only celebrates the commitment and dedication demonstrated by Mr. Parvej Ahmed, Pandit Rakesh Ranjan Tripathi, Shri Shashi Pratap Singh, and Mr. Vikram Pandey but also acknowledges their prowess as influencers. This recognition is not just a nod to their achievements but a testament to their ability to drive change and awareness in the digital age. PVCHR and JanMitra Nyas extend their heartfelt congratulations to these advocacy stars, heralding a new era of impactful and socially resonant public health advocacy.

District Vigilance Committee: A Quarterly Insight into Varanasi's Food Security

 

Under the aegis of the District Magistrate of Varanasi, the District Vigilance Committee, operating in accordance with the Uttar Pradesh Food Security Rule 2016, convened its quarterly meeting on January 11, 2024. The prestigious Rifles Club in Varanasi played host to this significant gathering.

A notable member of this influential committee is Mr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, the esteemed founder of PVCHR (People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights). His presence underscores the commitment to ensuring food security and the welfare of the community.

The quarterly meeting served as a platform for comprehensive discussions, strategic planning, and crucial decision-making. The committee delved into various aspects of the food security framework, aiming to address challenges, identify opportunities, and foster an environment of sustained well-being for the residents of Varanasi.

Key Highlights of the Quarterly Meeting:

1. Date and Venue: The meeting took place on January 11, 2024, at the Rifles Club in Varanasi. The choice of venue reflects the significance attached to the discussions regarding food security in the district.

2. Committee Leadership: The District Magistrate of Varanasi, as the President of the District Vigilance Committee, steered the meeting with a commitment to upholding the principles laid out in the Uttar Pradesh Food Security Rule 2016.

3. Membership Inclusion: Notably, Mr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, renowned for his tireless advocacy for human rights, contributed his insights as a dedicated member of the committee. His involvement ensures a holistic perspective that aligns with the committee's objectives.

4. Agenda and Deliberations: The agenda encompassed an in-depth analysis of the prevailing food security scenario in Varanasi. The committee members engaged in fruitful deliberations, focusing on strategies to enhance the implementation of the Uttar Pradesh Food Security Rule 2016.

5. Reports and Assessments: The meeting featured detailed reports and assessments that shed light on the current state of food security in the district. This information served as a foundation for informed decision-making and targeted interventions.

The District Vigilance Committee's commitment to its mandate under the Uttar Pradesh Food Security Rule 2016 is a testament to the collective effort aimed at ensuring that every resident in Varanasi has access to adequate and nutritious food. Through such quarterly meetings, the committee strives to create a robust framework that addresses challenges and paves the way for an inclusive and secure food environment in the district.

Link of detailed report in Hindi: https://www.scribd.com/document/699985061/District-Vigilance-Committee-A-Quarterly-Insight-into-Varanasi-s-Food-Security

District Vigilance Committee: A Quarterly Insight into Varanasi's Food Security by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd

Unraveling a Tale of Family, Friendship, and Struggle: A Chronicle of Stephan Braig's Impact on My Journey

 Embark on a riveting journey through love, struggles, and shared humanity with Stephan Braig. From Varanasi to Germany, this chronicle unfolds a tale of family, friendship, and unwavering resilience. Dive into the narrative and join the conversation on justice, compassion, and the bonds that unite us all. #StephanBraig #FamilyChronicles #SharedHumanity

Please read follows link for full details: https://lenin-shruti.blogspot.com/2024/01/unraveling-tale-of-family-friendship.html

Forging Sustainable Global Alliances: A Transformative Encounter in Varanasi for Positive Social Change

 On December 24, 2023, a pivotal meeting unfolded in Varanasi, India, bringing together esteemed individuals dedicated to positive social change. Lenin Raghuvanshi, Shirin Shabana Khan, and Abimanyu Pratap from PVCHR engaged in discussions with Ms. Sita Bista, a Member of Parliament from Makawanpur and Secretary of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), who also chairs Integrated Village Development Services Nepal.

Integrated Village Development Service (IVDS), located in Hetauda-2, Makwanpur, is a non-profit national non-governmental organization committed to fostering positive societal transformations in Nepal. The purpose of their visit to India was centered around the South-South exchange program at Parmarth in Orai, UP, facilitated by the Norwegian Agency for Exchange Cooperation (Norec).

Parmarth Samaj Sevi Sansthan, the organization in Orai, has been actively addressing water crises in the water-stressed Bundelkhand region of UP & MP since 1996. With a focus on qualitative improvements and uplifting vulnerable communities, Parmarth collaborates with stakeholders such as institutions, corporations, government bodies, local communities, and individuals. Their interventions span across water conservation, environmental protection, village development, sustainable agriculture, river rejuvenation, sanitation, waste management, women empowerment, education, and skill development.

The visit was a result of a sustainable friendship and relationship-building approach. Notably, Nirmal Kumar Paudel, a fellow from the first batch of the South-South youth exchange, initiated by INSEC-PVCHR and financed by NOREC, played a pivotal role. Trained and supported by PVCHR, Paudel's connection with Parmarth exemplifies the enduring impact of collaborative efforts.

Dilshad Khan, a fellow at PVCHR, meticulously orchestrated the arrangements for the Varanasi visit of the chairperson and associates of Integrated Village Development Services, Nepal, exemplifying the sustainable way of fostering global friendships for a better world.

The article sheds light on the comprehensive evaluation report of the Youth Exchange Program funded by Norec, conducted by Alliance for Social Mobilization Pvt. Ltd, Nepal. It delves into various aspects, including the purpose, methodology, key results, challenges, conclusions, recommendations, lessons learned, and annexes.

The report commends the grassroots HR work of PVCHR, community-based methodologies, counseling therapy like Testimony Therapy, and the documentation of issues such as police torture, child rights, and landless people’s concerns. These methodologies have been lauded by INSEC staff and youth trainees, with some already transitioning into full-time roles within PVCHR and various organizations and government agencies in Nepal.

The narrative expands to the global landscape, emphasizing the dangerous trend of masculinity-driven militarist traditions and the concept of superman as part of hegemonic masculinity. Lenin Raghuvanshi, CEO, and founder of PVCHR, draws upon his childhood learning to address these issues. His insights on hegemonic masculinity were acknowledged by film actor Aamir Khan, leading to his participation in the Satyamev Jayate TV series in 2014, focusing on violence and hegemonic masculinity.

Despite facing manipulation and conspiracy, PVCHR received notable recognition as a "Friend of German Parliament" during a significant dinner meeting with Vice President Claudia Roth at Lodhi Garden Restaurant on February 20, 2015. This acknowledgment marked a crucial milestone in PVCHR's international advocacy for human rights, solidifying a deepening partnership with the German Parliament and emphasizing shared commitments to advancing global human rights.

Celebrating the Legacy of Savitri Ba Phule: An Article by Shruti Nagvanshi in Sanmarg

Shruti Nagvanshi has authored an article dedicated to the legendary Savitri Ba Phule, and it has been published in the esteemed Hindi newspaper, Sanmarg.

 

Shruti Nagvanshi Takes Lead Role in Ensuring Workplace Safety at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith University, Varanasi

 In a significant development, Shruti Nagvanshi, the dynamic Founder and Managing Trustee of JMN (Jan Mitra Nyas) and PVCHR (People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights), has been appointed as a member of the 9-member Internal Complaints Committee for Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith University, Varanasi. This noteworthy appointment aligns with the provisions laid out in the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, reinforcing the commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment within the university.

The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) plays a crucial role in addressing and redressing complaints related to sexual harassment at the workplace. The inclusion of Shruti Nagvanshi in this committee brings a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to the cause. As a representative of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), she has been actively involved in advocating for human rights, social justice, and gender equality. Her expertise in these areas positions her as a valuable asset in fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes the well-being of all its members.

Shruti Nagvanshi's appointment, effective from 21st December 2023, marks a pivotal step towards ensuring a safe and secure environment for employees and students at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith University. By actively participating in the ICC, she will contribute to the formulation and implementation of policies that adhere to the highest standards of ethics and compliance with the legal framework for preventing and addressing workplace harassment.

Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, has a rich history dating back to its establishment on 10th February 1921, initially as Kashi Vidyapith and later renamed. Administered under the state legislature of the government of Uttar Pradesh, the university attained University status in 1974 as a Deemed to be University and State University status in 2009. Boasting more than 400 affiliated colleges spread over six districts, it stands as one of the largest state universities in Uttar Pradesh.

With hundreds of thousands of students hailing from both rural and urban backgrounds, Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith offers a diverse range of professional and academic courses in arts, science, commerce, agriculture science, law, computing, and management. The university's commitment to providing quality education now extends to ensuring a safe and respectful workplace environment under the guidance of the newly appointed Internal Complaints Committee, with Shruti Nagvanshi at the forefront.

In conclusion, Shruti Nagvanshi's appointment as a member of the Internal Complaints Committee reflects the university's dedication to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and safety for all. Her leadership in this role is anticipated to contribute significantly to the development of a robust framework that fosters a workplace environment free from harassment and conducive to personal and professional growth.

#ShrutiNagvanshi 

Reform is Science, Reality & Art: Lenin Raghuvanshi’s Vision Echoes at International Conference on Human Rights

 https://medium.com/@drbahadursinghyadav/reform-is-science-reality-art-lenin-raghuvanshis-vision-echoes-at-international-conference-on-bac8f47602c2

More than 75 Years Post-Independence: Unveiling the Shadows of Injustice in India

 Lenin Raghuvanshi Explores the Struggles of Dalits and the Call for a Neo-Dalit Movement

In the aftermath of 75 years of India's independence, the world's largest democracy grapples with a disconcerting reality – justice remains an elusive concept. The deep-rooted caste system continues to exert its influence over the political, social, and economic destinies of over a billion citizens.

The nexus of wealth, political maneuvering, and coercive tactics frequently obstructs justice for the disenfranchised, particularly the Dalits. These marginalized communities bear the dual burdens of poverty and illiteracy. Atrocities and extortion against the Dalits, sham encounters, reluctance to register complaints against the privileged, arbitrary arrests, illegal detentions, and custodial deaths have sadly become commonplace.

The absence of a robust modern social audit system often empowers law enforcement to impose a 'police raj,' particularly in rural India. The compromised efficacy of the National Human Rights Commission and its state counterparts, limited by recommendatory authority, alongside a dysfunctional Legal Aid System, paints a bleak picture of the state of justice in the nation.

Lenin Raghuvanshi, a seasoned Dalit rights activist, offers a distinctive perspective. Drawing extensively from case studies, primarily sourced from Uttar Pradesh – a region marked by the highest incidence of crimes against Dalits – he chronicles the torture and humiliation faced by Dalits at the hands of higher castes, often with tacit support from the administration. Shockingly, numerous instances of violence, fatalities, or custodial abuses against marginalized and deprived castes go undocumented.

In a comprehensive analysis, the author posits a critical question: Can the Neo-Dalit movement serve as a bulwark against the burgeoning tide of fascism in India?

Lenin Raghuvanshi, a distinguished Ayurvedic physician and Dalit rights activist, has dedicated his professional life to advocating for the rights of bonded and child laborers, as well as other marginalized individuals in Varanasi and the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh, India. In 1996, alongside his wife Shruti, he established the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), a community-based organization.

Acknowledged with the Gwangju Human Rights Award in 2007 and the International Human Rights Award by the City Council of Weimar in Germany in 2010, Lenin Raghuvanshi's commitment to human rights is further underscored by accolades such as the Special Mentions Prize of Human Rights from the French Republic (2018), the Public Peace Prize (2018), and the Karmaveer Maharatna Award (2019).

In his upcoming second edition, Lenin Raghuvanshi continues to shed light on the struggles of Dalits in independent India, with a dedicated chapter on the 'Neo Dalit' movement. The book is set to be published by Frontpage Publications Limited, an independent publishing house based in London, pioneering critical debates in history, politics, human rights, media, and women's issues.

As we embark on this new chapter, we wish to express our sincere appreciation for the invaluable contributions of various individuals and institutions who have played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of this significant endeavor. With heartfelt gratitude, we acknowledge their efforts in advancing the cause of justice, liberty, and equality in Indian society.

The forthcoming second edition, dedicated to the legacy of Dr. B R Ambedkar, is anticipated to serve as a powerful testament to the ongoing struggle for these fundamental principles. Scheduled for release in March 2024, this edition builds upon the foundation laid by the first edition, which was originally published in 2012.

For those interested in exploring the initial release, the first edition is already available. You can access it through the following link: Justice, Liberty, Equality: Dalits in Independent India - First Edition.

Additionally, a Hindi edition of the first edition is also accessible. You can find it via the following link: न्याय, स्वतंत्रता, समता: आज़ाद भारत में दलित.

We eagerly anticipate the impact of the second edition and invite you to delve into the insightful journey initiated by the first edition.

More than 75 Years Post-Independence: Unveiling the Shadows of Injustice in India by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd

Addressing the Urgent Challenge of Non-Communicable Diseases in Bharat

In a letter dated January 5, 2024, Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi responded to Shri Rahul V. Karad, Founder of The National Legislators' Conference, expressing his deep concern over the rising tide of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Bharat. The exchange highlights the critical need for collective action to tackle this pressing issue.

The National Legislators' Conference 2023: A Platform for Deliberation

Shri Rahul V. Karad initiated the conversation by underscoring the significance of the National Legislators' Conference 2023, held in Mumbai from June 15 to 17. This gathering brought together over 2,000 Members of Legislative Assemblies and Councils, thought leaders, policy experts, and social & political leaders. The comprehensive report enclosed with the letter serves as a testament to the commitment and wisdom of the participants, reflecting their efforts to address the multifaceted challenges shaping the nation's development trajectory.

Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi responded by acknowledging the collective commitment demonstrated at the conference and expressed eagerness for continued support in their altruistic mission.

The Rising Tide of NCDs: A Crossroads for Bharat

Dr. Raghuvanshi's subsequent letter delves into the alarming surge of NCDs, especially among the youth, positioning Bharat as the second-highest in childhood obesity rates globally. Citing data from the National Family Health Survey 2019-21 (NFHS-5), he revealed a staggering 60% increase in childhood obesity over the past five years, affecting nearly 15 million children.

Compounding the issue is the escalation of ultra-processed packaged food consumption, laden with salt, sugar, and saturated fats. This has led to an obesity rate of around 25% among adults aged 15 to 49, coupled with a disturbing prevalence of diabetes and hypertension among the youth.

FSSAI's Endeavors: A Step Towards Healthier Choices

Dr. Raghuvanshi lauded the efforts of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in addressing the health crisis through evidence-based front-of-pack labeling regulations. This initiative aims to empower consumers with information, encouraging food manufacturers to produce and promote healthier alternatives. The proposed warning label, explicitly cautioning against the health risks associated with certain ingredients, marks a crucial step in fostering a healthier dietary culture in Bharat.

The Role of Political Support: A Call for Action

Highlighting the pivotal role of political support, Dr. Raghuvanshi urged leaders to champion the cause. With 60% of deaths in Bharat attributed to NCDs according to NFHS-5, he stressed the need for urgent and transformative action. The support from institutions like AIIMS, the National Institute of Nutrition, and the International Institute of Population Science underscores the gravity of the situation.

The letter concludes with a call to action, urging recipients to leverage their contacts and make a fervent appeal for the inclusion of a warning label Front of Package label (FOPL) for unregulated packaged foods. Dr. Raghuvanshi expressed confidence that collective efforts can curb deaths due to NCDs and protect the nutritional well-being of citizens.

For a more in-depth understanding of this critical issue, he invited readers to explore his articles on the subject. The exchange between Shri Rahul V. Karad and Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi exemplifies a shared commitment to addressing the urgent challenge of NCDs in Bharat, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to safeguard the health and well-being of the nation's citizens.

Link: https://healthofchidren.blogspot.com/2024/01/tackling-silent-crisis-call-to-address.html

https://www.scribd.com/document/696824481/Tackling-the-Silent-Crisis-A-Call-to-Address-Non-Communicable-Diseases-NCDs-in-India

https://www.scribd.com/document/696824766/Tackling-the-Silent-Crisis-A-Call-to-Address-Non-Communicable-Diseases-NCDs-in-India

Tackling the Silent Crisis:... by pvchr.india9214

Tackling the Silent Crisis:... by pvchr.india9214