Villager in the City: India

Showing posts with label India. Show all posts

31 January 2007

Selective Abortions in Punjab

During our field research in a village in Jalundhar, Punjab, Lisa and I had the opportunity to engage with local teachers in various schools. Their vibrant personalities and candid discussions offered valuable insights into the social challenges prevalent in their community.

Among the many issues they shared, one particularly pressing topic was foeticide, or selective abortion based on the sex of the fetus. The teachers pointed out that foeticide is not limited to economically disadvantaged or lower-caste families; instead, it reflects a broader societal problem with deep-rooted cultural implications. The alarming gender ratio of boys to girls observed in states like Haryana, Punjab, and Gujarat raises important questions about societal values and norms surrounding gender. Both affluent and poorer families were described as participating in selective abortions, suggesting that this issue transcends socioeconomic boundaries. This phenomenon indicates a pervasive societal preference for male children, which can have long-term demographic and economic implications. The teachers indicated that "poor families would starve themselves to save up money to buy an abortion under the table." This practice not only jeopardizes the health and well-being of women but also raises ethical concerns regarding access to safe medical services. The sacrifices made by these families to fund such procedures point to a desperate need for education and resources, particularly in rural areas. This situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive social services and educational programs aimed at changing perceptions and attitudes toward gender.

A recent article I encountered in the Christian Science Monitor highlighted the astounding rate of selective abortion in India. Findings published in the British medical journal, The Lancet, estimated over 500,000 selective abortions annually, provide further evidence of the scale and urgency of this issue.

Cultural perceptions often view a girl child as a 'liability' rather than an 'asset.' In many Indian cultural groups, marrying off a daughter typically comes with the expectation of providing a dowry, while sons are considered instrumental in preserving family lineage and enhancing wealth. Despite the introduction of strict laws banning selective abortions in 1994, the prevalence of such practices has unfortunately risen, often through illicit means. Although there have been governmental efforts to crack down on these practices, a multifaceted approach is needed.

In addition to enforcing legal consequences for perpetrators, the government must develop social programs and incentives that support families with daughters. The challenge is deeply rooted and requires a comprehensive strategy focused on reforming societal values. Along with punishing perpetrators, the government needs to provide more social programs and incentives to families bearing daughters. It is too deep of a problem to simply punish. Such initiatives could pave the way toward fostering a more equitable perspective on the value of all children, regardless of gender.

15 January 2007

Dalai Lama on Buddhist Meditation

My Question to His Holiness on Meditation

His Holiness the Dalai Lama is visiting San Francisco this April '07. It is surprising how much he travels all over the world raising constant awareness for his people.

While we had our special meeting with him at a Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, I squeezed in a final question for him at the end. Since I have a deep interest in Eastern philosophy, particularly meditation practices, I asked him to explain how he stays focused with so much going on around him. Following was the brief dialogue:

Me: When you meditate, how do you stay focused?

His Holiness: (chuckles) That is my problem! (The whole group and His Holiness laughing)...

Me: Sometimes I have that problem too.

His Holiness: I have to train simple point in mind. I use analytical meditation. According to Buddhist practice, there are two types of meditation: Samadhi and Vipassana. Samadhi is simple point in mind. Vipassana is analytical meditation. Everybodys do that, in different fields. When your mind analyzes, concentrated, involved fully and focused in analytical meditation, then other minds may not be very active... Your mind fully concentrated on other subjects like that. So that is very useful. I feel analytical meditation, or Vipassana is more important than Samadhi. Samadhi is just something like relaxed, your mind is focusing on one point and nothing else. So it is useful, important, but as far as changing our concepts, training of our mind or shaping new shapes of our emotions, analytical meditation is much better, much stronger!

Me: Thank you.

His Holiness: Good?!

19 December 2006

The Greatest Generation...

Unfortunately when our team left Dharamsala for Amritsar, I got notice that my Grandfather had fallen gravely ill. Before leaving for India, I had promised him that I would do Ardas (pray) in Amritsar, the Sikh holy city.

We were in Amritsar until the October 27th, and left for Delhi via train. I knew I needed to go home urgently. I arrived in California late October 28th, and went directly to the hospital where my Grandfather was. I spent that evening and the next day with him until he took his last breath on October 29th.

A.S. Sandhu, 1913-2006

He is the survivor of India's independence from the British, the bloody Partition of Punjab after the British relinquished control of India, and the tragic loss of all his children except his one living daughter. Bloodshed and disease were rampant during that time and medical care was poor, if not absent. He was a true survivor, eternally in chardi kala (high spirits). His dignity, wisdom, talent, and total dedication and integrity inspired awe and respect for him from all who came in contact with him. He lived his belief of purity of mind (ishnan), compassion for all human beings (daan), and unshakable love for God and his creation (naam). He exemplified dignity of labor by being a doer, a creator who was actively involved all his life.

Tom Brokaw wrote a book about the generation of American heroes who were in their prime during the Great Depression and World War II. This generation was linked not only by a common purpose, but also by common values--duty, honor, courage, service, love of family and country, and, above all, responsibility for oneself. In this book, Brokaw introduces people whose everyday lives reveal how a generation persevered through war, and were trained by it. It is said that generation was "the greatest generation any society has ever produced."

Along similar lines, I feel the same way about the Indian men and women who lived during World War II, the fight against British imperialism, the fight for India's independence, and the deadly Partition of Punjab. My grandparents are of this era. Despite losing everything including their home, land, priceless family tree and heirlooms, and the many family members along the way, they remained steadfast in their integrity, dignity, courage, love of family and country, and their responsibility as human beings.

It seems like the end of an era...a time and place that will never be the same again. My Grandfather has been the most influential and dearest person in my life. Coming to terms with his passing is so sad and make me wish for a time long past. My Grandfather's faith in God was deep and his gentleness, yet strength were admirable...He had qualities were exceptional, and I am confident he is someplace very lovely...We celebrated his incredible life and his beautiful legacy.

Sri Harimandar Sahib, where I prayed for my Grandfather

18 November 2006

Pingalwara

Pingalwara Center: A Place for Hope, Health and Happiness

This was a remarkable place, and the story behind it is even more compelling. Pingalwara's formation was sparked in 1934 by Bhagat Puran Singh Ji in Amritsar, Punjab.

For over 14 years, Bhagat Puran Singh devoted himself to caring for an abandoned child with severe disabilities, often carrying him on his back. The Partition of Punjab in 1947, which ultimately led to the creation of Pakistan, was a time of unimaginable suffering and upheaval. Millions of families were forced to leave everything behind in Pakistan to seek safety in India. My own grandparents experienced this harrowing journey, surviving the ordeal but tragically losing many of their children along the way. It was a profoundly traumatic period in India's history, marked by loss and despair.

In 1948, as he began to establish Pingalwara, Bhagat Puran Singh often stood on the streets, reaching out to strangers for help. With the donations he gathered, he provided food, clothing, and medical care for the sick and suffering. He not only fed and bathed those in need but also ensured they received proper medical treatment. No matter the challenges he faced—whether it was war, disease, or harsh weather—his spirit remained unbroken. He consistently rescued those who were stranded, caring for everyone, regardless of their condition.

Pingalwara, which translates to "a house or asylum for the disabled, handicapped, or crippled," opened its doors to a diverse community. It also cares for the elderly, individuals who have experienced abuse, and those suffering from terminal illnesses. The center features a touching museum dedicated to Bhagat Puran Singh, showcasing photographs from his early life and simple belongings. His legacy is a beautiful tapestry woven with compassion and hope.

It is said that "...Pingalwara is full of legends that would never make the newspapers—success stories about those saved from garbage bins in their infancy, girls mistreated and abandoned by their families, and mentally challenged adults who would otherwise face a life in harsh asylums" (All India Pingalwara Charitable Society).

Bhagat Puran Singh was truly a visionary. At a time when many disregarded critical environmental issues, he tirelessly fought for the preservation of nature. He advocated for reforestation, the conservation of natural resources, and a sustainable lifestyle, urging people to limit their reliance on fossil fuels.

During our visit to Pingalwara, we were warmly welcomed by Dr. Inderjit Kaur, who now carries on Bhagat Puran Singh's noble work. She graciously showed us around the main branch, where living quarters and daily classes provide a nurturing environment for neglected children and women with mental impairments. We also visited the branch on the outskirts of Amritsar, home to a school for underprivileged children and a center offering prosthetics and physical therapy. The dedication of the employees and volunteers was deeply inspiring; they were fully committed to teaching, repairing, building, and providing essential services to those in need.

We felt profoundly moved by their efforts and chose to support their cause with a donation, knowing that any contribution would play a critical role in enhancing the lives of those in need. Pingalwara's work is vital, creating a safe and compassionate space for those who need it most.

Photos

Conjoined twins on all vital organs who can never be separated. Pingalwara Center, Amritsar, Punjab. October 26, 2006.

Young girls at the school for the underprivileged.

Child of a woman with severe mental impairment.

Team member, Rebecca and children dancing to Bhangra music.

Sweet, kind children at the school dedicated to the underpriveliged.

A fun-loving girl being cared for in a class for children with cognitive differences.

Children having a nice chuckle.

At the Pingalwara, this is an old school print shop where people are provided with small employment opportunities to publish Bhagat Puran Singh's manuscripts for free public distribution.

Team with Pingalwara President Dr. Inderjit Kaur (pictured second from right). Dr. Inderjit Kaur has been guiding Pingalwara with dedication and compassion since the passing of Bhagat Puran Singh in 1992.

14 November 2006

Dharamsala, Part II

Education in Dharamsala

We were fortunate enough to interview directors of various Tibetan schools, nunneries and the Transit School. When Tibetan refugees arrive in India, they are transported to the refugee center. They await their rare meeting and personal blessing from His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

After the blessing, younger refugees are placed in the Sherub Gatsel Lobling School (Tibetan Transit School) where they have the option to remain for up to five years. The school has approximately 700 students. There they are taught a trade, language skills, technical training and education along with food and board. These young refugees have the option to stay the five years or leave earlier. After their time at the Transit School, either they go to a regular school, begin working, or are placed in one of the many Tibetan centers all over India. Some go back to Tibet so that the Tibetan culture is preserved and the aim of independence is never forgotten. I was impressed with their organization and outreach to the International community.

We interviewed the Director of a Tibetan and Indian school in Dharamsala who is a very excited about the work he does with the schools. Because the school is a mix of Tibetan and Indian students, he stressed ongoing cultural exchanges during childhood. This ensures a mutual understanding between ethnic Indians and the Tibetans. He told us the Indian government has been good to the Tibetans and allowed them to freely live in Dharamsala, while allowing them to preserve their culture...in many ways better than in Tibet. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has aided his people well, and people all over have been generous to the Tibetans out of care and concern.

School children taking a break at the Tibetan cultural festival. Tibetan school girls out for a walk.

Dining hall for primary school children

My research has led me to the understanding that the schools in Dharamsala are largely in satisfactory condition and are undergoing continuous improvements and modernization efforts. It is encouraging to note that Tibetan schools and the newly established villages in the region benefit from significant support through international philanthropic initiatives. Funding is also provided by esteemed organizations such as the Dalai Lama Foundation, the Tibet Administration, and various governmental programs.

Many Tibetan schools face pressing issues such as the need for enhanced building structures, better quality benches, softer mattresses, and more nutritious food options. The strategies employed by the Tibetan government in exile to develop, maintain, and modernize their educational system can serve as a valuable reference for Indian states that have struggled to achieve similar advancements in their public schools and are working towards enhancing their public education infrastructure. This collaborative spirit may pave the way for future improvements in schooling across the region. It was very inspirational to observe many of these schools in Dharamsala. unable to do the same for their own schools.

Kids in their music class excited to see us!

Tibetan girl dressed for her art and music class.

11 November 2006

My November Posts

India Mission

Our mission in India focused on conducting field research to assess educational and societal issues in rural areas. We aimed to provide funding and programming support to select schools and initiatives that would yield long-term benefits. Our team consisted of one American man, five American women from diverse ethnic backgrounds, and one Indian woman living in Delhi (not pictured below). This eclectic mix brought together different experiences and strengths, which enriched our efforts. I am grateful to my team members, who were genuine in their personal endeavors.

Pictured above are Angela, Cherlyn, Tom, Lisa, Rebecca, and myself.

We developed various ideas and outlined plans to address some of the challenges we encountered in the schools. As the Legal & Education Coordinator at the Center for Community Legal Education in San Francisco, I served as the project leader, translator, writer, and photographer for our group. I also compiled our observations, reflections, and experiences in this blog. My recent posts aim to highlight regions that are often overlooked by global philanthropists.

Technorati Profile

10 November 2006

Tibetans in Dharamsala, India

Dharamsala, city of exile for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and his Tibetan people, has become a very diversified place over the last fifty years. It is like a second home to many Western people, including celebrities, who cheer and support the Tibetan cause.

It is rather easy to get around in Dharamsala since there is much Western influence, but getting there is the hard part! We were fortunate enough to have a reliable driver from Delhi. "Jack," our Tibetan driver had a broad range of influences. He was born and raised in India, speaks English, Tibetan, Punjabi, Hindi, and many other languages, and is learning Spanish and French! He went to Punjab University in Chandigardh, is a practicing Buddhist, and listens to many genres of music. On our drive, he played a wild range of music videos including Snoop Dogg, Maroon 5, Eagles, Cat Stevens, Bhangra, Tibetan, Chinese, and many others. He is the proud father of a baby girl with his wife, whom we had a brief chance to meet in Dharamsala.

The Tibetans, in general, had very genuine qualities of kindness, peacefulness, and an abundant openness to people of all walks of life. Jack, a modern Tibetan in my view, had a fusion of cultural influences from his proud Tibetan heritage, his upbringing in India, interactions with Western travelers, and the effects of globalization.

Many Tibetans in Dharamsala were very open about the growing concern of the survival of their Tibetan culture and identity. Nevertheless, it was refreshing to see that many Tibetans including Jack were adjusting well to modernization, yet thoroughly practicing their religion and honoring their heritage.

Tibetans are doing many things to preserve their culture and promote their cause by having cultural shows, presentations, and concerts. This attracts Western attention, and Dharamsala definitely had many foreigners compared to surrounding areas like Punjab and other states. In the five days we were in Dharamsala, the Tibetans had a protest against the Chinese government's atrocities, Tibetan cultural shows, a candlelight vigil, and a concert against drugs and to promote AIDS awareness.

The Tibetan Unemployment Co-operative Society was happy to announce that weekly a group of new arrival artists from Tibet will entertain visitors, educate the public on Tibetan identity, and encourage support of Tibetan youths.

We noticed pictures of the missing Panchen Lama posted all over Dharamsala. I guess that keeps the search ongoing and keeps fresh the memories of a lost Tibet. Panchen Lama is a title like Vice-President or Prime Minister. According to the Tibetans, the Panchen Lama was 6 years old when he and his parents were "kidnapped" from their home in Tibet by the Chinese government. He has been missing for over 6 years. Panchen means "Great Scholar" and Lama is a word Tibetans use for a religious teacher. Tibetans believe that the Panchen Lama is the protector of all the world's living beings.

Dharamsala

09 November 2006

Keep Ludhiana "Clean & Green"

It is noble to desire helping those who are substantially less fortunate; however the reality of providing any direct assistance or relief is much more complicated and stressful. For me, there was the overwhelming realization that many of the people I came into contact with live in and amongst poverty. It is a way of life and part of the mindset of people, and prevalent on all levels. The blame can be laid on so many people, the government, global corporations, and even the impoverished individuals themselves. People with power and leverage need to re-evaluate how they conduct their business and re-assess the the quality of the laws they pass. Locals need practical tools, knowledge, and a new way of thinking in overcoming poverty.

After our time in Delhi, we made our first brief stop in Ludhiana, Punjab, an industrial city that left a lasting impression on me (see photos). It is plagued by severe pollution, and stood out against other locations I have visited. Many members of my team fell ill within minutes of our arrival. It would be invaluable to explore whether environmental testing and research have been conducted in this area. Team member Rebecca Cohn, who is currently a CA legislator, called for enhanced scrutiny from environmental agencies in a region that seems at risk for significant health issues, including respiratory diseases and cancers.

Despite the presence of signs urging citizens to "Keep City Clean and Green," the disconnect between such initiatives and practical outcomes is glaring. My observations over multiple visits—1998, 2003, and 2006—highlight a troubling trend of worsening conditions across Ludhiana and other Punjab cities. Engaging with locals, I found a unanimous acknowledgment of the pollution challenge; however, this awareness is not matched by the capacity to enact change. Many residents prioritize immediate survival, focusing solely on meeting daily needs, which leaves little room for environmental advocacy or education. Even if they are doing well financially, they have little to no knowledge about environmental protections, safeguards, or what practical things can be done to prevent further degradation. In a nation grappling with such a vast population, I felt the perception of disenfranchisement among locals is palpable. Perhaps many feel their voices are drowned out in the larger conversation about development and industrial growth. Yet, perhaps, many might think that if their city has more industrial growth, it will help them become financially better off, so environmental concerns take a back seat.

So, what can be done? A significant opportunity lies with the international community. Collaborative efforts from organizations like the United Nations, global corporations, and environmental agencies are essential for fostering educational initiatives that empower both governments and local populations in countries like India. Even if efforts are currently underway, they need to be expanded on a larger scale. I empathize with the simple villagers, farmers, and other workers who bear the brunt of globalization and industrialization without adequate environmental protections in place.

During our short stop in Ludhiana, there was a constant veil of smog making it difficult to breathe. Ludhiana, October 18, 2006.

06 November 2006

Delhi School

Team Lead Tom with students.
Team Member Rebecca, Principal Ms. Bhatia, and myself.

Green Field Paramount School, situated in Kusumpur Village in Delhi, was the first school our team had the opportunity to visit upon our arrival in India. This school was one that Tom had connections to and he desired to support. This school is located in a notably underserved area of Delhi and serves approximately 70 to 100 primary school children.

Ms. Bhatia welcomed our attention and support, although she was unable to provide detailed information about the school's operations or its founding. She mentioned that a "board of directors" oversees the school, but time constraints prevented her from elaborating on that structure. Based on her dedication to the school, she was very committed to enhancing the school's physical condition and fostering an environment conducive to learning.

While I noted some aspects of the school's management that could benefit from increased transparency, I believe that, with time, we will be able to gain a clearer understanding of its logistics. It is evident that Ms. Bhatia is genuinely dedicated to her students and could benefit from additional resources. To that end, our group has provided funding specifically aimed at addressing the most urgent need: improving the classroom structure. Tom intend to keep regular oversight of the school's condition and progress.

Pictured is the entrance to Green Field Paramount School and a young girl learning her alphabet. October 18, 2006.

I was truly impressed by her confidence! She boldly positioned herself in front of the boys to ensure she had her photo taken. It stood out to me that while all the boys were wearing shoes, albeit worn, she was walking around Delhi barefoot.

Rebecca poses with the school kids. She demonstrated a natural empathy for all school children we met in India. I enjoyed her passion, depth, and love for children.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.5 License.

Villager in the City