‘Poverty alleviation vital for peace and social justice’
A grand exhibition based on the theme—the need for sustainable development and individual’s role, was organised at La Martinere Girls School here on Tuesday.
The exhibition ‘Seeds of Hope: Visions of sustainability, steps toward change’ was inaugurated by Prof SK Barik, director CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow.
In the key address Prof SK Barik said, “Poverty is a crucial factor that blocks the spread of peace and social justice. Poverty alleviation is, therefore, the most important responsibility for us. Each of us should confront this misery head on in order to establish interconnectedness with all life. This way we will ensure sustainable development and peaceful environment management. I see the ‘Seeds of Hope Exhibition’ as very pertinent in the current context.”
Prof Sushil Kumar, head, Centre for Business Sustainability, Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow, invited as the guest of honour said, “I sincerely appreciate the effort Bharat Soka Gakkai has made in organising this exhibition which showcases individuals from around the world who have taken up the challenge to bring about change. The exhibition rightly emphasises that sustainability is not only about protecting the environment -- it’s also about ensuring social justice and peace.”
The exhibition was organised by Bharat Soka Gakkai (BSG), the Indian affiliate of the Soka Gakkai International (SGI), a UN recognised organisation working for peace, culture and education based on respect for the dignity of life. BSG chairperson Vishesh Gupta said, “The Seeds of Hope exhibition takes us on a journey of courage and hope. It reconfirms our belief that when one person stands up with unflinching hope and takes action, undeterred in the face of obstacles, then and there, causes for eliminating misery from the face of earth is created.”