Gandhi: Non-violence’s global relevance
Arshad Khan
Mahatma Gandhi, a revered figure in Indian history, is celebrated by the entire nation on the second day of October, his birth anniversary. On this significant day, President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by the highest dignitaries of the land, leads the nation in paying homage to the father of the nation, who upholds the dignity and honour of India while advocating for non-violence. The streets are adorned with vibrant decorations, and the air is filled with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the man who dedicated his life to the principles of truth, non-violence, and social justice.
Gandhi’s teachings on non-violence, social cohesion, and the imperative need to live in harmony with nature are not only timeless but also hold even greater relevance in today’s world than when he first espoused them. These invaluable lessons extend beyond the boundaries of India alone; they resonate with the entire global community, which commemorates October 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), recognizing the profound impact of Gandhi’s philosophy, deliberated upon the significance of this day and declared it as such in June 2007.
The preamble of the UNGA resolution eloquently states the interlinkage and mutual reinforcement of non-violence, tolerance, full respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms, democracy, development, mutual understanding, and respect for diversity. This reaffirms the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence and expresses the collective desire to foster a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding, and non-violence. With these profound premises, principles, and aspirations in mind, the UNGA took the momentous decision to designate October 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence.
The need for social cohesion in India is glaringly apparent, especially in light of the formidable security challenges the country confronts. A cohesive society serves as a strategic asset in the face of such challenges. However, it is important to dispel any misconceptions that Gandhi advocated for India to prioritize non-violence at the expense of national honour or to succumb to the dictates or pressures of any foreign power. While he steadfastly adhered to the principle of non-violence, he never wavered in his commitment to upholding the dignity and honour of the nation.
It is worth noting that independent India did not strictly adhere to Gandhi’s development model, which emphasized self-reliance and a decentralized economy. Instead, the country opted for a path of industrialization and socialism, with the state assuming a commanding role in the economy. This decision was influenced by various factors, including the need to rapidly uplift millions from poverty and the desire to compete on the global stage. Conversely, other nations pursued different models of development, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. Undoubtedly, these diverse approaches have yielded varying degrees of improvement in the quality of human life. However, it is important to acknowledge that they have also engendered pockets of affluence and extravagance amidst vast swaths of deprivation and poverty.
What is even more disconcerting is the lack of harmony between these growth models and the environment. This discordance can be attributed to the underlying motivation of greed that underpins these models. As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, it is heartening to observe that leaders of numerous countries are now recognizing the imperative of sustainable development in order to mitigate the adverse effects. They are acknowledging that the pursuit of economic growth should not come at the expense of our planet’s well-being. Nevertheless, the current reality is that global temperatures have already surpassed 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, resulting in catastrophic consequences that manifest year after year. The unimaginable ramifications that await us once we breach the 1.5 degrees threshold and approach a 2-degree rise are truly daunting.
The global community fervently hopes that technological advancements will provide viable solutions to this existential crisis. While it is undeniable that technology will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in addressing certain aspects of this challenge, we cannot escape the fundamental truth espoused by Gandhi himself: that our planet possesses ample resources to meet humanity’s needs, but not its insatiable greed. This principle must be ingrained in all endeavours aimed at achieving sustainable development.
As we commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary and the International Day of Non-Violence, it is essential to reflect on the enduring relevance of his teachings. Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to non-violence, social cohesion, and the preservation of our environment serves as a guiding light in today’s world.
Let us strive to uphold the dignity and honour of our nations while embracing the principles of non-violence, tolerance, and sustainable development, for it is through these values that we can create a harmonious and prosperous global community. May Gandhi’s legacy continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us of the power of compassion, justice, and unity in shaping a better world for all.
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