Getting into the Spirit of Peace, Harmony and Progress….Happy Diwali & Prosperous New Year

Getting into the Spirit of Peace, Harmony and Progress….Happy Diwali & Prosperous New Year

The spirit of celebration is the same every year. But this year, what has changed is the way now Gujaratis are celebrating the festival of lights with Sadbhavana. A way of simplicity - to live together in peace and harmony. Diwali has now become a joyous, multicultural observance in Gujarat, in which people of all religion - faith join in.

In that spirit, I invite you to light a ‘Sadbhavana’ Diya for this Diwali and spread our message of peace, harmony and progress with faith in your heart and love for Gujarat.

As we celebrate the triumph of ‘Good over Evil’, it all started as a way to celebrate Lord Rama’s return on vanquishing Ravana. And centuries later, it still gives us a reason to light up the darkness – Spreading sunshine into the lives of 6 crore Gujaratis and scattering the rays of hope to people of the nation. Gujarat, a hope for a better India, is a role model to other states, reaching crescendo with its development journey.

Gujarat leads to a bright future with every citizen joyfully celebrating the festival with spiritual fervor. These spiritual qualities over-ride the basic instincts, intellect and ego. The light of the soul can transform baser qualities of greed, distrust and hatred into selfless giving, trust and helpfulness. It inspires us to be consistent in our efforts to progress on the path of truth to enlighten and illuminate the lives of people of Gujarat. And, it has revealed to us our true ‘Identity’ as enriched souls, living and growing in the great school of earthly experience. It’s the time to shrug off hate, anger and bitterness. It’s the time to illuminate the diyas to flicker the flame of Progress.

It is a timeless civilization with an eternal quest for the light of Knowledge which is embodied in our spiritual texts. As Rig Veda quotes:

Asato Maa,
sad gamaya
Tamaso Maa,
Jyotir Gamaya
Mrityor Maa,
Amritam Gamaya
Aum Shanti Shanti Shanti…

We pray, God lead me by giving me knowledge (from the unreal to the real),

From darkness (of ignorance) to the light (of Knowledge), from death (limitation) to the immortality (liberation).

Ten years ago, we lived in darkness. Gujarat lived in a world terrorized by violence and deceit, corruption and cunning fundamentalism and atrocity. The years 1986-85 are unforgettable and resound in painful grief. The government endeavored to exorcise the ghosts of the past and forge in a new world of understanding, hope, love, brotherhood, harmony and peace. As far as we experience, there has been no kind of violence or curfew, no communal unrest as we live in peace in Guajrat.

The Literacy ratio gets higher in Gujarat. The Literacy rate in Gujarat has seen upward trend and is currently 79.31% as per the 2011 Population census. Of that, Male literacy stands at 87.23% while Female literacy is at 70.73%. And, credits go to the efforts of CM alongwith all his officers striving to spread literacy.

Our traditional oil lamp which still serves as the primary source of illumination in many parts of Gujarat, also informs of something about India’s huge and growing power deficit. While India had ‘power poverty’, it’s leaders opened the doors to commerce in nuclear energy! Gujarat is focused for ‘Green Energy, Clean Energy’ with the First in Asia trendsetter ‘Department for Climate Change.’ And, adopts the strategy to become global hub for renewable energy, which could be synonymous with climate justice for the generation next.

Urban development had remained a neglected sector in India and lacked a direction and political will. But, in Gujarat, initiatives like Jyotigram Yojna for 24x7 hours uninterrupted power supply in all the 18,000-odd villages and broadband connectivity to village panchayats in the State have succeeded in reducing the rural-urban gap and check rural exodus towns by 33 per cent. The light is illuminated in the life of people of ‘Rurban’ Gujarat with new plans and strategy. Jyoti Gram Yojna has changed the socio-economic conditions of Gujarat, creating a mass awareness too.

The flickering flame of Sadbhavana speaks of the initiatives for farmers who are known to be are known to be progressive and pragmatic in Gujarat. The unique Initiative of the Krishi Mela Mohatsav have brought tremendous change - Jal Kranti, leading to Gujarat providing Shwet Kranti (White revolution) to the nation and now, Harit Kranti (Green Revolution). Team of experts, researchers, scientists, Agriculture officers and Ministers interact and provide information and counselling on soil health, organic farming, technology and inputs, irrigation, etc., besides infusing a new spirit of change and mass mobilisation. More than 93,000 farmers in Gujarat have adopted drip irrigation for their total 1.51 lakh hectare land..The figures keep rising as Drip Irrigation system and inter-linking of 21 rivers of the state for conservation of water has made it possible for record crops and Sugarcane cultivation in the state. Gujarat has created history in water conservation, by launching a drive for blue revolution, constructing number of check-dams, boribunds, village ponds, khet talavadis and implementing water harvesting apart from Water shed development programs for increase in healthy living lifestyles with better income, education and resources.

World's Largest Irrigation Network, the pace of implementation of the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Project with the dam height raised to 121.9 metres (from 90 metres five years ago) makes the waters of the Narmada flow all across the state through canals and water transmission lines. The project has immense contribution towards irrigation, hydropower and drinking water supply. It’s Bringing Smiles to Faces with Water Harvesting – Conserving Water for Tomorrow. In order to economize the use of Water, Gujarat has speeded up the promotion, awareness and application of micro-irrigation techniques such as Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation. Also, Innovative water solutions like desalination, recycling treatment, water purification, water saving, water security and water management play a key role in Water Harvesting in Gujarat.

The diya of Gyan (Knowledge) with Vision Gujarat aims aims for transformation of State into a globally recognized knowledge society and for this, proposed shelf of projects lay outlined for creation of specific Institutions in growth sectors such as Aviation University, Retail Management University, Maritime University etc and creating COE (Center of Excellence) across the state for Governance, Biotechnology, Textiles Research, Chemical Research, Nanotechnology, Agriculture, Earthquake Engineering Research, Architect and Design, Urban development, water, cleaner technology, space research and Tourism. ‘Smart goals with future vision’ and ‘Education for all’ is the mantra.

Bringing joy with literacy and education, The Campaign for ‘Education for All’ is implemented with major Literacy initiatives like ‘Kanya Kelavani, Shala Praveshotsav, Gunotsav and Vanche Gujarat.

The Sadbhavana soul stirs to flicker the flame to spread rays of hope amidst all imperfections that negative minds showcase. Gujarat is a shining beacon of democracy and development in a troubled country and is a force for good in an unstable world. Gujarat is committed to Enhancing Security - Physical, Social, Economic to it’s 6 crore people and further is concerned for the future of India’s Generation x. Gujarat is ready to safeguard the lamp from ill winds that blow and no force can harness the determination to surge ahead with people of Gujarat to spread Peace, harmony and Progress.

Thus, focused on the diyas of Gyan Shakti, Jal Shakti, Urja Shakti, Jan Shakti and Raksha Shakti – Gujarat has forged its own steady path along the roads of success this past decade. This ‘Panchshakti’ programs identify the key driving forces of the state’s economy and progress.

Just remember, Light is a symbolic of the purity of agni or fire that is essential in our progress towards attaining to enlightment and the need of the hour is, by opening our mind, we let in fresh wisdom, thereby expanding our horizons and broadening our vision.

To conclude, I think if all of us - the 6 crore people of Gujarat is hopeful of an emerging power to a glittering future Gujarat from a glorius past. 60 million dreams inspired the Government to cross various development milestones and every member of the administration irrespective of their ranking have unitedly accomplished the incredible success of the State. And now, we await to see our dreams come true in the future – what really the people need is – Peace and political stability. What really the people need is Development. What really the people need is comfort living, sustained life and no poverty issues. Much more…and all will join me ‘Yes, we want no corruption, no price rise and no violence’

Light the lamp of Love and let love radiate fragrance of peace and harmony.

Jai Jai Garvi Gujarat

- ilaxi patel

Love Gujarat? Are You from Gujarat? Stay connected here or visit CM Narendra Modi's site

Visit Shabdpreet

I am speechless with grief - Bhupatdada is no more ! May his soul rest in peace - RIP

It was last night I realized what Life is all about. I hoped that he would open his eyes and smile with a gesture waving his hand asking me 'Do you still write?' and show me his books from the Library cupboard.

No more can I write but draw my readers to 'Shabdpreet' - Bhupatdada's Blog that I started some years ago and he inquisitely use to ask me which article I put there! Follow Shabdpreet here.

- ilaxi

Happy Navratri 2011 - time flies...

Time flies, leaving no room for personal spaces. In comes a lot of responsibilities that divert our attention to social and business life - And, maybe this can be an excuse for not stepping on this Blogging floor.

So many events passed by but the most exciting was 'Sadbhavana' Mission and I am sure, you must have traced the Sadbhavana footprints on CM Narendra Modi's Website. It says all! And, so do State Portal focus on the latest news that go with the State happennings.

Well, like every year, the Navratri festival is in full swing in town. What is so interesting is the GMDC - University Ground that is visited by thousands of people to catch a glimpse of the 'Sant Nagari' and 'Tourism pavilion' with the rich mucis and traditional garba dance at the venue. If you love Navratri, this is a Must Visit place and if you not seen this, you are not a Gujarati!

This reminds me, are you a Patel? Well, frankly speaking, I am. The Kadva Patidar Parivar Trust and Kadva Patidar Parivar Mahila Vikas is celebrating it's 25th Silver Jubilee Garba Mahotsav - 'Aso ni Ajwari Raat' (આસોની અજવાળી રાત) on 9th October, 2011 at D K Patel Hall in Ahmedabad. Talented Singers 'Dhruvish Rohit Shah and Hetal Raval alongwith their orchestra will enthrall the patel community. The event is sponsored by Mr. Yogendra Sarkar and Mr. Dilip Sarkar of Ambalal Somnath Sarkar Jewellers, C. A. Patel & company and Nilaben J patel. Special Aarti is organized at the venue for which any Patel can take the opportunity to perform aarti but yes, it comes with a donation prize!

Patel entries limited and so, this calls for Patel Unity. So, if you are a Kadva Patel, go for the passes now and it cost too nominal - You can always contact Kalaben Amin, President or Shobhaben Patel, Vice President of Kadva Patidar Parivar Mahila Vikas. Kalaben can be contacted on her no. 66316595 - you can even visit her website www.kaneesha.com

Stay tuned. Hopefully, keep on the postings of what's going on in Gujarat - Ugh, afterall, so much going on that one can't keep the pace!

- ilaxi

Youth and Government - My speech-Presentation at CIIE-IIMA

On May 14, 2011, I got the opportunity to address Youth at CIIE-IIMA.

The topic of my Speech and Presentation were on 'Youth and Government - Paving a new path for India.' Follow the Presentation for a brief glance on feeling the 'Pulse' of the Youth and indepth findings. As an alert and an aware citizen, it is our prime responsibility to possibly work in areas where we can encourage Youth initiatives, innovation and entrepreneurship. As a result, some of my researched work highlights Government Policies and Sectors which held potential for plunge into business and keep a close watch on happennings in business world.

A call to the Youth focus on points to 'Get charged, Bring change' at a time when Anna Hazare fights for Corruption and the need of the hour arises for a Young Anna Hazare as the future of India is Youth.

While I explore and research my various fields of interest, you may log to Gujarat Government Portal to find more on Gujarat and find supportive links that speaks of its growth and also log to Hon'ble CM Narendra Modi's website which remains updated ever.

- ilaxi patel

Youth & Government - Paving a new path for India

View more presentations from Ilaxi Patel

Best is yet to come! Recipe from my kitchen

Missed on the Swarnim celebrations this year! Well, its a busy enjoying life amidst the thick and thin and so, thought of just sharing a Recipe, a 2005 post:

Here's a Recipe...Straight from the "Chef" Blossomsmile's (ilaxi's) Kitchen!

- Make the Best of Everything!

Preparation-Preliminary - A fluffy white cloud can adorn a clear sky
with splendour or can clutter up your vision of the blue expanse. Again, a
grey cloud can cause you to get wet and irritate you, or it can make
earth refreshingly cool. Your choice defines what is best.

Ingredients:

- Make light of failure
- Avoid pessimists and fault finders
- Count your blessings
- Enjoy Life
- A vision of heaven

Method: Make failure an incentive to strive to do better.

Offer a deaf ear and blind eye to those who will not acknowledge the
cloud with a silver lining.

Remember a person without shoes is better off than one without feet.

Take time and pleasure in all you do even if it is eating a bread without
butter for breakfast.

Derive hope from saying, The Best is yet to come!

And yes, Best of friends too, yet to find, 'tis they come from heaven to spread peace and joy on earth. Tis a cup of love blend with faith, trust and all that is rosy and gold. Garnish your life with all the rich flavours of love to relish the taste for a life time!!!

- ilaxi

Patel Power - Unity

Women has the power within. And a very good example is 'Kadva Patidar Parivar Mahila Vikas' - Those who awarded me 'Outstanding Journalist Award' - (for achievement in Kadva Patel community) some years ago! After a successful merge of Kadva and Leuva Patels, the Women's wing are now joining hands together as all Kadva and Leuva communities merge together with 'Lav Kush Patidar Mahila Sammelan' organized on 10th April 2011, Sunday, 8.30 a.m. at Open Grounds near Vardan tower, Pragatinagar, Naranpura, Ahmedabad. 13.

The Luv Kush Sammelan function will be graced by Shri shri ma Anantanandtirthji who will light the lamp and also be awarded for outstanding social work. Also present will be Shri Jai ambe Chundiwala Mataji (Gabbar ambaji). Kadva and Leuva patel (like Luv and Kush) will focus on message for women with book reading of "Nari Chetna' by Jigisha Kamalbhai Patel, Principal of Mirambica School. Awards will also be given to Nitaben Narhari Amin, Vice Prsident Hiramani School and Hiramani Sandhyajivan Kutir. Also Award to be given to Sangitaben Ramubhai Patel who runs a Marraige Bureau and into social service.

Kalaben has been a source of Inspiration to many women and she efficiently manages the Kadva Patidar Parivar Mahila Trust women's wing as President of the wing. She is active into social work and manages her own business - Kaneesha Boutique. So, if you are a Kadva or Leuva Patel or know any Patel women, rush to Luv Kush Sammelan - Patel women are unitedly creating waves in every field and shining on top.

- ilaxi

How can India develop in next decade - Watch CM speak

How Can India develop in the next decade? Watch CM Narendra Modi speak at India Today Conclave 2011 on 17th March:



A man with a vision - He can do it - Gujarat can be a role model for development in India. A person who can be a PM and we'll love to see him there...


-ilaxi

'How can India develop in the next decade?" Share your thoughts...

Remember the quote "Don't ask what the nation can do, Think what you can do for the nation" - This is exactly what our CM Narendra Modi can reflect in his speeches that we all so do admire!

18th March and India Today Conclave 2011 begins with the Changing Balance of Power. India Today Conclave will bring together, the best minds in politics, finance and business, military, technology, academia, and the arts, from around the globe to examine the new world. Our CM Narendra Modi will give his Keynote address today, 18th March at 14.30-15.15 on 'How can India develop in the next decade?" at Taj Palace Hotel, New Delhi. You can view the same live on CM's website and visit India Today Conclave page - Ask questions too!

A partner in progress for Development of Gujarat, CM is also focused on development of India with a vision to present a roadmap for India.

Can Gujarat become the development model for India?

Can it show India the way of growth and prosperity with its committed investment in infrastructure?

Will India's political mindset change to make Gujarat's demonstrated method of inclusive development the primary agenda of governance?

The session chairperson is Ajay kumar, Executive Producer, Aaj-Tak and as Editorial Director of India Today, Mr. M J Akbar will head the session Session with The Inaugural Gala Dinner Address - The New Middle-East: Challenges and Opportunities and American Decline: Myth and Reality.

Discuss this on CM's website or India Today. Stay tuned.

- ilaxi

5th Vibrant Gujarat Investors' Summit 2011

Promising to be the biggest and the best with a big vision, the 5th Vibrant Gujarat Investors' Summit 2011 is held with Inaugural Programme on 10th January 2011 at Seminar Room No.5 at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. The Global summit will be held on 12th January with Validictory Function to be held on 13th January 2011.

Special Invitation passes has been issued by the Government and the visitors need to carry their photo identity card with them an retain the card with the envelope throughout the inaugural programme. Over 20,000 delegates from all over the world will preside the function and Consulate, leaders and those associated to Industries from over 60 countries will remain present.

The time has come for all to talk about Crores ! Not one, two but signing of Crores of MoUs and with over 9000+ MoUs signed, withdrawn and projects implemented or to be signed, projects forthcoming - Gujarat is Vibrant once again.

Even the Forbes Magazine has said in a report that Ahmedabad is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world and it has put Gujarat’s largest city Ahmedabad in third rank after two Chinese cities - Chengdu and Chongqing. Ahmedabad is India’s seventh largest city, and Forbes has placed it ahead of Chennai and Bangalore in terms of growth.The magazine has said Ahmedabad is a city ‘whose per capita income is twice that of the rest of India’.

Well, you must be aware that Government organized 8 Sectorial seminars to energize VGGIS11 - Details of which can be found on Gujarat State Portal. The International Kite Festival to be held on Sabarmati river front from 9-14 - And, with the Global Summit VGGIS11, Gujarat is buzzing - buzzing Economy, buzzing growth and buzzing Progress - No wonder, we all want CM to be PM and none other than CM Narendra Modi can vision 2020 - Blueprint for Infrastructure in Gujarat 2020 (BIG 2020)- The vision to envisages an investment of Rs.11,80,912/- crores across 19 infrastructure sectors in Gujarat State. Think Bigger, Grow Bigger and to make Gujarat a globally preferred place to live in and to do business through accelerated, balanced, inclusive and sustainable growth driven by robust social,industrial and physical infrastructure.

Aren't we all proud to be a Gujarati? Proud to be an Amdabadi - And of coz, cross the fingers, a day isn't far when we can be Proud to have a Gujarati CM to be a PM one day:-) All the best to us!

Watch the space for what's more in store pre and post MoUs VGGIS11.

- ilaxi

in transit - Exhibition at Amdabadni Gufa

An Exhibition is held at 'The Gallery', Amdabad ni Gufa from 4th January to 9th January 2011. 'in transit' a journey that creates an undertone of new discoveries and distractions - will display recent works by Ayesha Parikh (photographs) and Amruta Shah (painted collages).

Both works focus on the concept of being 'in transit' as people. The duo has different exposures when combined from experiences that have played a huge role in moulding their perceptions. They have portrayed their experiences in art form on canvass with photographs by Ayesha. The painted collages by Amruta Shah are art work using mixed media.

World is changing and so is the next generation who can 'Think Big, dream big' - Ahmedabad see a host of Artists displaying their work, day in and out at various places. 'Art is where the heart is' and Ayesha and Amruta Shah just mean to reflect their inner souls and reveal their thoughts with an 'in transit' period of time.

Check in for a closer look to what today's generation vision is all about and dig in deep to corners of their souls to find solace to fulfil your heart's desire to feel the Art. Shri B V Doshi will be inaugurating the Art event. Be there to encourage Ayesha and Amruta - Ahmedabad sees a new hope to cultural vitality through Arts and Exhibitions. The Photographs and Painted collages by Amruta aim to convey Happiness, Energy, Hope and Promise - Let your future be bright with the colors and the colors of 2011 will bring in peace to you and your family.

Rush to Ahdabadni Guja 5th - 9th January 2011 and get a glimpse of these young artists. Enjoy.

- ilaxi

CM at IIMA

IIM Conclave celebration had Hon'ble CM Narendra Modi as a Guest today in the morning hours and it was indeed a great honor for me to be present to hear his most inspiring speech. A presentation was shown on the development journey of Gujarat and the CM shared his vision of progress and development all through the years and what 2011 VGIS can further do for Gujarat in terms of economy.

Listen to the speech here at CM's website.

What amazed me was a small child standing beside his dad and keenly listening to the CM speech. He clapped when the audience clapped and especially, when the CM spoke of Empowerment of children and that he would like to have the cars stopped on the roads when children are crossing the road. CM further said, areas like Law Garden should be only children areas for a day where they can freely play games like cricket, etc.

Mr. Narendra Modi spoke of Industries, Agriculture and Service sector - all three areas which are focused for development of Gujarat. For more, listen to the speech on his website.

In the Vote of Thanks, Mr. Amal Dhruv of IIM said, "CM's speech is an inspiring speech, energizing all and so gracefully charging all youth, men and women.The participation of IIM with government will bring in greater results." He gave a call for participation for all those who would devote time and contribute their share for the development of Gujarat.

Well, the coming VGIS 2011 and we are sure that Gujarat is on the World Map again - the IIMA joining the Government in its journey to success is sure to scale to heights.

- ilaxi

Video to promote Education? Gunotsav?

Gunotsav, aiming to improve the quality of education at primary level has commenced in 618 primary schools of Vadodara district. Three thousand odd senior officials of the state, cabinet ministers and CM Shri Narendra Modi himself participated in three-day long drive commenced from 9th to 11th December and graded schools, teachers and students in Gujarat.

Gujarat Government has recruited 1.21 lakh Vidya Sahayak (education assistants), built more than 64 thousand class rooms, opened around 19600 new science labs, installed computer labs in 5500 schools, provided 33 thousand rural schools with electricity and facilitate 33 thousand odd schools with better drinking water and sanitation.

All can be read on CM Narendra Modi's website on this. But, follow the Blog of CM Narendra Modi and his note speaks of infusing life into Education. A very concerned note and total responsibility. However, it irks me to find a supportive video of 'Last Option' which stand irrelevant to the topic according to me. We need to devote time to development of children as Guardians but as responsible parents, nobody would like to see the video there which shows in ways to commit suicide!

I wonder, do our CM Narendra Modi promote such video on 'Why do kids commit suicide or How to commit suicide? An Award winning video but no way, should be promoted in a CM's blog nor should be watched by children online! I have no courage to give the you tube video here as the small kid's smiling face still shatter me to see him hooked to the rope. You may hop in to CM's blog and the linked video says all.

This not a movie of Amir Khan but real life of children and all parents love their children dearly - Promote Gunotsav but no need to promote such videos.

I run a children's Library since 1991 and promote Reading - Cultivate reading habits amongst children and run a Kids Newspaper Online - Never thought of promoting such videos just to promote education! The video has shaken me completely!

- ilaxi

Gujarat gets United Nations Public Service Award

Recently, I came across a Certificate that adorn the wall at the Hon'ble CM Narendra Modi's Office. It is the Certificate of United Nations Public Service Award - 2nd Place Winner for Improving Transparency, Accountability and Responsiveness in the Public Service Category. Gujarat Government has proved for better management and better service with effectiveness, efficiency and quality of Public Service. The Certificate dates back to 23rd June 2010.

An Achievement by one of the Best States of India - It is a proud moment for every Gujarati and 5.5 crores who reside here that Gujarat is awarded by United Nations Public Service Award.

The news might be a surprize to you as none of the media I guess has published this nor even might have noticed this Certificate hanging on the CM's Office Wall. Not only this, it is also a matter of pride that it also has ISO 9001:2008 Certificate.

Well, East or west, Gujarat is the best and indeed, Heaven is a place on earth - only here that is 'Apnu Gujarat' - It rocks.

- ilaxi

Blink, blink - Do you read?

Recently when Barrack Obama visited India, the first lady Michelle Obama had been active with children and spontaneously answered their questions even on home alone! When President of US tackled on conflicts across the world, it was curious minds who asked how they managed conflicts at home. Michelle Obama spontaneously revealed about who blinked first when she and Barrack Obama had a tiff. It is quite obvious reply that it was the President and I think, one who blinks first is the one who is a loser - a communication understanding that I give up! And, it happens to all when there's an emotional trigger. Try this exercise and one who blinks first is gentle and soft at heart.

Well, let this be aside but one important thing to note is that Michelle Obama highlighted India's need for Education. She explained school children the importance of education and to be prepared for life's challenges. She was concerned for literacy and focused on power of education and suggested that India urgely expand literacy and deepen education. Not only get educated for jobs but also be well versed to read and write and understand with critical thinking, engage in debate and face challenges to gear up for change. Seminars, workshops and engaging thinkers, writers, leaders, idols should be a part of in school and college education. Knowledge economy can help India grow more intellectually and technology advancement to attain economy power and profit.

The UNDP Multidimensional Human Development report shows that 55% of India's Population is poor. The new data also shows that even in states generally perceived as prosperous such as Haryana, Gujarat and Karnataka, more than 40% of the population is poor by the new composite measure, while Kerala is the only state in which the poor constitute less than 20%.

Quite obvious, Gujarat lag behind in Literacy and this is when the CM fully functions with the Vanche Gujarat calling for Gujaratis to enrich knowlege. The Vanche Gujarat Abhiyaan brings the State together to Read. A powerful orator, an avid read and an original thinker, the Gujarat CM reads and encourages others to read.

I have been conducting Reading class since 1991 at Swagat Children Library. Every Saturday it has been a 'Samay Daan' for few hours for children and with flow of time, I have noticed that Reading is completely on the back seat. No parents nor children have the patience to read nor do have the concentration. For students, where is the time? Same goes for Parents who have to do the projects for kids given in schools and follow up their schedule.

What do you think? Do you think the Vanche Gujarat Campaign will motivate all for reading? Will this be temporaty reading or indeed, Gujaratis will focus on reading? Whatever, leave your comments/thoughts and do visit Swagat Children Library page and should you want to start one like this in your area, I give no franchise but free ideas to run a Children's library - go on, start one like me. My journey since 1991 go on and its a mission to spread literacy and focus on overall development at a time when schools can only teach and confuse children !

- ilaxi

Gujarat a 'Can Do' State: Bags egov web 2.0 Awards:-)

The news around my desk says, "The official portal of Hon'ble CM Narendra Modi (http://www.narendramodi.in/) got the prestigious eGov 2.0 award for the ‘Most innovative use of social Media'. And, the Official Gujarat Government State Portal (http://www.gujaratindia.com/) bags an award as 'Most user friendly portal.'

The awards were conferred by The eGov magazine, Asia's first and only print-cum-online magazine on e-Governance, focusing on the use of ICTs in governance. The event was held at Hotel Claridges in Central Delhi on 28th October 2010. India eGov 2.0 Awards aims to felicitate and acknowledge unique and innovative initiatives in the use of social media tools for creating interactive platforms for improving citizen service delivery. It is also awarded for sharing and garnering information to meet the larger social development goals by the government and private sector bodies including citizens, citizen groups, NGOs and political parties.

India eGov 2.0 Awards is a unique initiative that will help bring to forth best practices of government and public sector websites and use of social media tools by them, as well as by civil societies and various development organisations in the country.”

Among the 400 entries for this prestigious award, Ministry of External Affairs' Public Diplomacy Division and Delhi Traffic Police shared with CM Narendra Modi's website as Editor's Choice Award for 'Most Innovative use of Social Media'

In his message for the occasion Chief Minister said that “I am extremely happy for today's award since it has supported my belief that we can do wonders by deploying the strength of social networking platforms- not only to remain closely in touch with people or to improve our delivery mechanisms, but also to make people actively participate in governance. It gives me satisfaction that over a period of time this portal has evolved as a strong platform for the citizens to have easy access to the highest office of the State”.

The portal is also novel in a way that it is put in 5 languages English, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi and Sanskrit for a wide coverage of users. For the applications, readers may visit the CM's official site for view.

State portal of Gujarat http://www.gujaratindia.com/ has been recognized as the most user friendly portal. It shares the Editor's Choice Award with Bharat Petroleum Corporation and MP, Government of Madhya Pradesh. It provides a unified interface to all Gujarat Government websites and acts as a logical front-end of the Government. The exclusive feature of the portal allows citizens to partake in Government by picking up various activities and hence enabling a huge participation. Apart from this, you may please view the Portal for complete features.

“Only those who keep walking get sweet returns...look at the sun's perseverance - dynamic & always on the move, never dormant... hence keep moving “. says the CM and so we move on....

It's a matter of pride for all of us and I am proud to be a part of the Team:-) Both the web Portals are presented by Silver Touch Technologies and CM Office. I am sure, you will feel proud to be a Gujarati whose CM and Gujarat outshines.

- ilaxi