Common man can, if he is allowed

Rana Preet Gill 

How do you make a difference in the life of a common person? How do you empower people? These were some lessons a bureaucrat taught people in Hoshiarpur. He did not mimick hollow promises but did something meaningful for the district. Vipul Ujjwal, the Deputy Commissioner, launched a unique initiative called Samarpan. 

On a routine inspection, he visited a school where students were sitting on the ground. There was nothing extraordinary about it, as this is a common sight in many government schools where students are made to sit on the floor because of the paucity of benches. Belonging to a middle class family, he felt peeved and later shared his feelings with his team. They realised there has to be public participation if something needs to be done for these kids. He asked for funds from corporate houses under corporate social responsibility. He got the funds but he wanted public participation as well. He decided to involve the masses but every person could not contribute hundreds and thousands of rupees for the welfare of poor students.  

He asked every person to contribute Re 1 everyday, amounting to Rs 365 annually. Thousands of people came forward and became part of this project. The administration was asked to identify schools which needed help and with public participation, every school was provided with benches and chairs. No child is now made to sit on the floor. 

In another project called Sanjhi Rasoi, the DC celebrated his daughter’s birthday with fanfare at the communal kitchen premises. Later, it became a trend and people started booking Sanjhi Rasoi for functions and events by making a small payment. The food was hygienic and provided at a low cost. While Sanjhi Rasoi run by other districts got neglected, or even non-operational, the Red Cross and the district administration-run Sanjhi Rasoi in Hoshiarpur is doing a wonderful job due to public participation. 

Anything which is run by the people, for the people and which comprises of the people who understand that administration can never be run by a firm hand is always a success. Both projects of the administration were unique because the common man was involved instead of few wealthy individuals. In the longer run if we want a sustainable model of development, there is need to involve every citizen and make him/her feel concerned. 

Moreover, at the end of the day it is a choice we make. If we want good governance we will have to become a part of every initiative taken by the authorities. We cannot mock their efforts by becoming spectators. We have to pitch in and give our time and energy for social causes. Only when we show we care  can we change the tide and future of our country.