During the 103rd edition of his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on July 30 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the “Meri Mati Mera Desh” campaign as a tribute to the courageous martyrs of India. This program, scheduled for launch on August 9, involves gathering soil from various parts of the country and bringing it to Delhi. As the nation approaches its 76th Independence Day on August 15, this campaign adds a new dimension to the celebrations.
Independence Day Celebration Traditions
Independence Day is significant for billions of Indians, marked by flying kites and hoisting the national flag. The “Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan” launched by the Central government last year further intensified citizens’ enthusiasm to display the Tricolor at their homes.
Introducing the “Meri Mati Mera Desh” Campaign
With the “Meri Mati Mera Desh” campaign, the government offers a fresh approach to celebrating Independence Day. This initiative, commencing on August 9 and continuing until Independence Day, aims to honour the nation’s heroes who sacrificed their lives for India’s freedom.
Prime Minister’s Announcement
During the 103rd edition of his monthly radio program “Mann Ki Baat,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the “Meri Mati Mera Desh” campaign. This initiative stands as a tribute to the enduring memory of the martyrs who laid down their lives for the country.
Saluting the Immortal Martyrs
The campaign encompasses various activities organised across India to commemorate these immortal martyrs. Special inscriptions bearing the names of these heroes will be placed in countless village panchayats across the nation, serving as a lasting tribute.
“Amrit Kalash Yatra”
A notable component of the campaign is the “Amrit Kalash Yatra.” This procession involves the transportation of soil from villages, contained in 7,500 ‘Kalash,’ to Delhi. Additionally, plants from various regions will join this yatra. The soil and plants from these Kalash will create an “Amrit Vatika” near the National War Memorial in Delhi.
Symbol of Unity – “Amrit Vatika”
The envisaged “Amrit Vatika” will symbolise the essence of ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat,’ fostering interaction and mutual understanding among people from different states and Union Territories through pairing.
Pledge for the Future
Prime Minister Modi urges every citizen to participate in the “Meri Mati Mera Desh” campaign, emphasising the significance of understanding the countless sacrifices made for the country’s freedom. By doing so, people take an oath to fulfil the “five resolves,” as mentioned in his previous year’s ‘Panch Prana’ address.
Installation of Plaques and Community Involvement
The campaign includes the installation of unique plaques called ‘Shilaphalakam’ in cities and villages, commemorating local freedom fighters, defence personnel, CAPF members, and police personnel who sacrificed their lives. This initiative emphasises community participation and remembrance.
Campaign Implementation and State Contributions
Across villages and cities, soil collection and transportation will occur, culminating in the arrival of approximately 8,000 urns of soil in Delhi. States like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra are actively gearing up to contribute to the campaign’s success through various activities and events.
Conclusion
The “Meri Mati Mera Desh” campaign is a remarkable initiative to pay homage to the nation’s martyrs and celebrate India’s journey towards freedom and unity. With the participation of citizens across the country, this campaign aims to foster a more profound respect for the sacrifices that have shaped the nation’s identity.
