COVA Activity Report- June 2010 to May 2011

National and International Peace Initiatives

Ayodhya Mandir - Masjid Dispute The Allahabad Judgment:

The impending Allahabad High Court judgment regarding the Babri Masjid- Ram Janambhoomi had every one worried about the possibility of the instigation of discontent and violence in the aftermath of the verdict to be delivered on 30th October 2010. Given the fact that this issue had been used many times in the past by politicians and vested interests to whip up orgies of violence all over the country, the concerns were not baseless. Recognising the possibility of such instigations again, COVA took the initiative to approach some leading religious leaders of national importance from different parts of the country to issue a Joint Appeal to to the people to respect the court verdict and maintain peace and harmony. Swami Agnivesh, Maulana Mahmood Madani, Jain Muni Lokesh, Fr. Dominic Emmanuel, Sardar Chandok, Kamal faruqui, Swami Chidananda saraswati and many other eminent religious leaders endorsed the appeal that was circulated widely through the media. Though the verdict of the Allahabad High Court on the Ayodhya Dispute did not lead to immediate violence, but none of the communities party to the dispute were happy with the judgment and declared their intension to go in appeal to the Supreme Court of India. Realizing the possibility that any verdict on the issue that may be given by the Supreme Court also may not be acceptable to all the parties concerned and could possible lead to more communal violence, COVA mooted the idea of prominent religious leaders from the Hindu and Muslim communities initiating a process that could create an atmosphere against any form of communal conflict and violence irrespective of whatever be the final verdict of the dispute and also explore the possibility of evolving a solution that could be acceptable to all The Executive Director of COVA wrote an article entitle “Allahabad High Court Judgment: Conflict beyond the Settlement” that was widely circulated and shared with religious leaders to enlist their involvement in the initiative. Two exploratory meetings were held in December 2010 and February 2011 in which leading religious leaders of the country like Sri Sri Ravishankar, Swami Agnivesh, Maulana Mahamood Madani, Kamal Faruqui, Swami Chidananda Saraswati and others participated and endorsed the need for dialogue between the two communities for an acceptable and permanent settlement of the dispute and to also create appropriate atmosphere in the country to ensure that this dispute is not misused once again by vested interests to whip up communal divide and violence. COVA is seeking to facilitate the emergence of an effective working group of these top level religious

leaders who will continue to be engaged to ensure communal amity and strive to evolve a solution that is just and acceptable to all concerned.

Peace Rally from Ayodhya to Gandhigram

In continuance to location of the initiative to propagate for amity and peace between Hindus and Muslims after the Allahabad High court Judgment, COVA collaborated with Ayodhya Ki Awaz, ASHA and a number of other groups from across the country to organize a peace rally from Ayodhya to Gandhigram from 10th December to 18 December 2010. The peace Rally passed through number of cities and towns where meetings and discussions were organized with civil society groups, students, trade unions, professionals and other concerned citizens on the Allahabad judgment and the need to maintain peace and harmony in the country.

The Peace rally was flagged off from Saryukunj Mandir that is across the road from the Babri Masjid - Ram Janmabhoomi Complex in Ayodhya.

Interfaith Resource Center at Ayodhya

In order to empower and involve local organizations and groups in Ayodhya and Faizabad, COVA conducted two orientation and training programs in Ayodhya on issues of communal harmony, organizational strengthening and citizen’s assertion Campaign in January and March of 2011. 40 people participated in the first meeting and 70 in the second meeting. .

The Mahant of Saryukunj has offered the temple premises for starting a Resource Center for interfaith relations and youth empowerment and COVA has started working to set up such a center in collaboration with other organizations of the country working on communal harmony.

Initiatives on Jammu & Kashmir

Kashmir Valley suffered massive unrest for over 6 months from April to September 2010 in which nearly 110 people lost their lives and hundreds more were injured. With curfews imposed by the government and Hartal (strike) calls by the Separatist groups, the people of the valley are in virtual prison- facing extreme hardships and deprivations.

COVA took the initiative and in collaboration with a number of organization in Kashmir and across the country undertook the following activities:

1. Representatives of COVA visited Kashmir in June and July to study the situation and bring together the civil society in Kashmir to engage with the prevailing situation. A group called People Initiative on Jammu & Kashmir was formed.

2. 26th August 2010: Meeting at New Delhi: A meeting of civil society groups was

organised by COVA in New Delhi on 26th August 2010 in collaboration with other civil society organizations. The meeting was well attended with representation from many civil society organisations, students, journalists, professionals and different sections of Kashmiri society including Kashmiri Pandits. Representatives of Save Children, Jamat-

Ulema- Hind- Jamat E Islami, Aman Trust, Arya Samaj, FOCUS, COVA and many other national level organisations participated. Mr. Shafi Pandit IAS (Retd) and Mr. Zafar Meraj came from Kashmir to speak at this meeting. Dr. Mazher Hussain gave the introductory remarks followed by addresses by Swami Agnivesh, Mr. Kuldip Nayar, Mr. Rahul Jalali, Mr. Sanjay Kak and others. Many members of Parliament including Mr. Rattanpuri and Mr. Shaheen from Kashmir participated and addressed the gathering. Mr. S.Q.R. Ilyas of Jamat- E- Islami moderated the proceedings.

The Meeting resolved to facilitate the formation of Working Groups on Jammu & Kashmir in different cities to sensitise people and policy makers about the problem in Jammu & Kashmir and work in a consistent manner towards the resolution of the ongoing problem.

3. 20th to 25th September 2010- Consultations with civil society organization in Srinagar,

Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai for the formation of People’s Initiative on Jammu & Kashmir- Meetings with political leaders and parliamentarians for raising the issue of turmoil in Kashmir in Parliament and assurances by Parliamentarians in the matter. Discussion on Kashmir in the Lok Sabha on 26th August 2010 and in the Rajya Sabha during Zero Hour raised by Ms. Brinda Karat on 31st August 2010

4. Civil Society Delegation to Kashmir: COVA facilitated the visit of a Delegation of Civil Society to Kashmir from 30 August to 2nd September 2010. The delegation comprised of Swami Agnivesh, Admiral L. Ramdas, Ms. Mohini Giri, Fr. Dominic Emmanuel and Dr. Mazher Hussain. The objective of the visit was to gain first hand knowledge of the prevailing ground situation in Kashmir and to commiserate with the people for their suffering and loss of life. The Delegation found the situation to be critical and tragic and also gained some startling understanding of the scenario. A Report of the visit of the Delegation was circulated in the Peace Updates Dispatch of 17th September 2010 that reaches over 20 thousand people, .and also shared with members of parliament, political parties and media.

5. 3rd September 2010- Public Meeting and Formation of Kashmir Working Group at

Mumbai: Peace Mumbai along with other civil society groups organized a Public Meeting at Mumbai titled “Kashmir at Cross Roads” inviting Sajjad Lone of Peoples Conference and Basheer Manzar, Senior Journalist from Kashmir. The Meeting passed a Resolution and formed Kashmir Working Group- Mumbai that would meet regularly to work for the resolution of the Jammu & Kashmir problem.

6. 3rd September 2010-Press Conference and Press Note: Members of the Delegation that had visited Kashmir from 30th August to 2nd September 2010 addressed a Press Conference on 3rd September at New Delhi.

7. 8th September 2010- Meeting at IIIT Hyderabad Admiral L. Ramdas and Dr. Mazher Hussain addressed the students and faculty of IIIT (Indian Institute of Information Technology), Hyderabad on the Topic “Kashmir Crises: Genesis, Current Situation and Way Forward”. After the meeting a number of students expressed a desire to visit Jammu & Kashmir to understand the issues and contribute to the peace process.

8. 8th September 2010 – Public Meeting and Formation of Kashmir Working Group at Hyderabad: Admiral L. Ramdas and Dr. Mazher Hussain addressed a Public Meeting at Hyderabad attended by members of civil society, professionals, students and representatives of the Kashmir community including Kashmiri Pandits on the Topic “Kashmir Crises: Genesis, Current Situation and Way Forward”. . The gathering decided to form Kashmir Working Group- Hyderabad that would meet regularly and work to interact with and influence political parties, government and the media for the resolution of the Jammu & Kashmir problem.

9. 9th to 14th September- Contacts and Meetings with leaders of Political Parties: Contacts and meetings with leaders of different political parties were undertaken to sensitize them to the gravity of the situation in Kashmir and brief them about the issues to be raised at the All Party Meeting convened on 15th September 2010 by the Government of India.

10. 16- 18 September 2010 – Preparations for Meetings at Delhi and Cancellation: Preparations were made to organize meetings at JNU – Delhi on 16th September; St. Stephen’s College- Delhi on 17th and a Meeting for the formation of the Kashmir Working Group in Delhi on 18th September 2010. Mr. Zafar Meraj, Mr. Shujaat Bhukari, Prof. Hameeda Nayeem and others were scheduled to come from Srinagar. As the Srinagar airport was suddenly closed from 14th September 2010 all the meetings had to be cancelled.

11. 15th to 19th September 2010- All Party Delegation to Jammu & Kashmir- Lobbying with National and Regional Political Parties, Parliamentarians and groups in Kashmir: The All Party Meeting held on 15th September resolved to send an All Party Delegation to Jammu & Kashmir from 20 to 22nd September 2010 to study the ground situation and suggest way forward.

But this Delegation faced serious challenge regarding its credibility and effectiveness as all the Separatist leaders issued a call for its boycott and the strict curfew declared by the state government. Realising the importance of the success of this Delegation in connecting with the people of Kashmir for mitigating the prevailing distrust and violence, COVA put into place two initiatives. First, members of People’s Initiative on Kashmir- Srinagar were requested to convince people to meet the All Party Delegation despite the boycott call. Secondly, COVA contacted members of different political parties who were in the Delegation and made three suggestions to them including that they should go to the homes of the separatist leaders to meet them and break the impasse that has been plaguing Jammu & Kashmir for over 63 years.

People from different walks of life came out in large numbers to make their representations to the Delegation. Further, three groups from the All Party Delegation comprising Mr. Sitaram Yachuri, Mr. Ram Vilas Paswan, Mr. Gurudas Dasgupta, Mr. Nama Nageshwar Rao, Mr. Asaduddin Owaisi, Mr. T.R. Balu, Mr. Shahid Siddiqui and others did go to the homes of the separatist leaders Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik and created history in the annals of peace on the eve of World Peace day that is celebrated on 21st September.

The results are there for all to see! Almost instantly, the stone pelting and disturbances in the Kashmir Valley started declining and things got back to normalcy in a month.

Interventions Towards Dialogue

In order to seek a proper solution to the Kashmir embroglio, COVA is facilitating a civil society initiative that is aiming to bring together Huriat leaders and Members of Parliament of India for a dialogue to pave way for addressing the outstanding problems. In pursuance of this objective, the civil society group comprising of Kashmiri Muslims, Pandits and members from other parts of the country meet regularly. It is proposed to form a caucus of parliamentarians on the Kashmir issue who will take the dialogue process forward. Some parliamentarians have already agreed to function as a core team that could facilitate the formation of the caucus and work towards the dialogue process.

Peace Vigils

The Judgment of the Allahabad High Court scheduled on 30th October and the turmoil in Kashmir for over three months had become matters of concern. In order to propagate the necessity to maintain communal harmony all over the country and strive for a just solution for the problem of Jammu & Kashmir that is festering for over 60 years, COVA proposed simultaneous Prayer Meetings and Candle Light Vigils for “Communal Harmony in the Country and Just Peace in Jammu & Kashmir” on 2nd October 2010 from 6 pm to 7 pm in different cities and towns all over the country.

Many organizations in different cities / towns came forward to organize the event. Details of Cities / Towns where organizations came forward to organize the Prayer Meetings and Candle Light Vigils for “Communal Harmony in the Country and Just Peace in Jammu & Kashmir” are as follows:

City / Town Venue Facilitation Contact Amritsar- Jalian Wala Bagh Folklore Research 09872318484Ayodhya Ayodhya Ki Awaz 09451730269Banglore Gandhi Statue, M.G. Road Sahajeevan 09449070760Bhopal Gandhi Bhavan Yuva Samvad 09424401469Bhubaneshwar EKTA Parishad Chandigarh Yuvasatta 09872609816Delhi Raj Ghat Asha Parivar-NAPM 09313106745Guntur VAN Guntur 09848090642Gwalior EKTA Parishad Hyderabad People’s Plaza, Nacklace Rd COVA 09346238430Jaipur PUCL Rajasthan 09351562965Jhansi EKTA Parishad Kurnool COVAN Kurnool 08008663361Lucknow Shaheed Smarak- Residency Asha Parivar 08081670595Mumbai Azad Maidan FOCUS 09869077718Nellore NOVA Nellore 09440309228Nizamabad Voluntary Asso.Nzb 09010892898Ongole VAN Prakasam,Ongole 9849212816 Patna EKTA Parishad Raipur EKTA Parishad Srinagar Press Colony, Lal Chowk J&K RTI Movement 09596081900Warangal ONVA Warangal 9849366660

Collaborating Organisations:

Apsa, Aman Vedika, Apna Watan, Asha Parivar, Ayodhya Ki Awaz , CHATRI, Coalition for Peace and Harmony, CKGPC, COVA, COVAN Kurnool, EKTA Parishad, FOCUS, Folklore Research, Forum for Better Hyderabad, Guild of Service, ICAN, Indialogue Foundation, J&K RTI Movement, Mahita, NAPM, NOVA Nellore, ONVA Warangal, Phoenix, PUSH, PWS, PUCAAR, PUCL Rajasthan, Sahajeevan, Right to Walk Foundation, Sakshi, Samhita, SANSAD, SOUL, United form for RTI, VAN Guntur, VAN Prakasam, Voluntary Asso.Nzb , War Widows Association, WIPSA, World Council of Arya Samaj, Yuvasatta, Yuva Samvad

Peace and Equity Audit for Development Planning

Need for Peace and Equity Audit as a Parameter for Development Planning

The objective of Planning should be to secure development and progress for all. But it is seen that development initiatives in India are leading to exclusion of large sections, increase in income disparities, intensification of social tensions and onset of conflicts between different communities / groups and even between the people and the State. This disenchantment and exclusion of the masses is getting translated into a variety of social and political conflicts that are manifested as agitations, riots, resistance, militancy and even terrorism. The major forms of conflict that seem to be increasing / emerging as a result of the present trajectories of uneven and discriminatory socio-economic development are the social conflicts (covering communal, caste, regional, ethnic conflicts etc), conflicts over resources (leading to displacements, migration, resistance, inter- state and inter- regional disputes,) and political conflicts (around issues of governance, accountability, inclusion policies, peoples aspirations etc). Most regions of the country seem to be affected by one or other form of these conflicts and their spread and intensity seems to be on the rise. Hence it is imperative that any planning process of the State should also focus on deliberations about how development in different spheres is contributing to generation / enhancement of conflicts and explore the possibility of using the Five Year Plans for mitigation of conflicts rather than provide conditions for their accentuation as seems to be the case now. COVA has proposed the formulation and application of a “Peace and Equity Audit” to review every development plan, policy or program to evaluate if it is equitable to all sections and will not lead to any conflict. If the result from the Audit is in the negative, then it should be modified suitably to ensure that development is always a vehicle for promoting equity, social justice and peace in society rather than contributing to inequality, marginalisation and generation of conflict.

COVA has presented the concept of the “Need for Peace and Equity Audit as a Parameter for development Planning” to the Planning Commission of India and the initial response has been positive. Now COVA is working to bring together experts from the fields of development planning, economics, academicians and social activism to evolve the required format and framework for the parameters and procedures for Peace and Equity Audit could be employed by all agencies and bodies – government or private- that are engaged in development work of any kind.

If such an audit could be evolved and employed consistently, then a large number of potential conflicts could be nipped in the bud make for a more equalitarian and harmonious society

National Seminars

“National Consultation on Planning for Conflict Mitigation and Redress”- Wada Na Todo Abhyan (WNTA), a platform of over 3000 civil society organizations from across the country facilitated a series of National Consultations to provide suggestions to the Planning Commission for the preparation of the Approach Paper for the XIIth Five Year Plan. Some of the themes that were covered in these consultations included Dalits, Muslims, Adivasis, Children, Women, Youth, Urban Poor etc.

As part of this process, COVA in collaboration with and Ekta Parishad, Asha Parivar and PUCAAR organised a “National Consultation on Planning for Conflict Mitigation and Redress” on 16-17 December 2010 at New Delhi. Discussions were structured around social conflicts (covering communal, caste, regional, ethnic conflicts etc), conflicts over resources (leading to displacements, insurgencies, inter- state disputes) and political conflicts (manifested in movements for autonomy and self determination).

Recommendations from these Consultations were given to the Planning Commission for consideration for the preparation of the Approach Paper for the XIIth Plan. National Seminar on Ethics in Journalism-

 COVA in collaboration with Fredrich Ebert Stiftung and MICCI (Goa) organized a National Seminar on Ethics in Journalism on 5th February at Hyderabad. Media scholars, journalists, academicians and political leaders participated and made presentations. Prof. Abdur Rahim, former Head, Department of Communications and Journalism, Osmania University, Hyderabad, was felicitated on the occasion for his exemplary contribution to the field of journalism.  National Seminar on Changes and Challenges in Education - COVA was a part of the organising committee of the three day “National Seminar on Changes and Challenges in Education” organized by MESCO on 6th to 8th May 2010 at Hyderabad. This seminar was organized in collaboration with the National Commission for Minorities Educational Institutions and Confederation of Muslim Institutions of India. COVA facilitated the invitation and

participation of religious heads and community leaders of different religions for this program who were able to speak about the problems faced by members and managements of educational institutions of their communities in matters of education from the primary to professional levels. Seminar on “Politics of Taxation in India” - COVA, in collaboration with CBGA and Christian Aid organized a A.P. State Level Seminar on “Politics of Taxation in India” on 16-17 May 2011 in Hyderabad. Experts from different parts of the country and a representative of Tax Justice Network, UK gave presentations on taxation policies, tax evasion and avoidance, and the impact of improper and corrupt tax regime on the growth and development of a country. Seminar on Minorities- On 1st February COVA in association with CSSS organized A.P.State Level Seminar on “Recommendations, Implications and Implementation Status of Sachar Committee – Ranganath Mishra Commission and the Prime Minister’s 15 point Programme for Minorities”. Members of Parliament, members of A.P. Assembly, academicians from prestigious universities, social activists and NGOs presented papers on different topics. 100 persons attended this Seminar. International Seminar on “Can Composite Culture Survive the Onslaught of Terrorism?”- COVA collaborated with Urdu Tehzeeb.net, UK in organizing an International Seminar on “Can Composite Culture Survive the Onslaught of Terrorism?” on 20th February 2011 at Hyderabad. Mr. Iqbal Haider, Former Law Minister of Pakistan, Kuldip Nayar, Mahesh Bhatt and others participated.

Indo- Pak Peace Initiatives

Peace March

COVA collaborated with a number of organizations who organized an Indo- Pak Peace March that started on 28th July 2010 from Mumbai in India and covering many cities, towns and villages reached Amritsar, near the border with Pakistan on 14th August 2010. A similar Peace March was started from Karachi, in Pakistan from 8th August and after traversing through many regions crossed the Border and reached Amritsar in India to join with the Indian Marchers to celebrate together the Independence of both the countries in the intervening night of 14-15 August.

Over 25,000 people gathered at Attari, a small village about 2 kilometers from the international India- Pakistan Border for the celebrations amid resounding shouts of India- Pakistan Friendship where they were regaled by leading singers from India and Pakistan.

At 12 midnight of 14-15 August 2011, Indians and Pakistanis went to the Attari- Wagah Border Post and together lit candles for peace and friendship.

Renowned Journalist Kuldip Nayar, Mahesh Bhatt and social activists Kamla Bhasin, Sandeep Panday and Mazher Hussain of COVA from India and Iqbal Haider, Former Law Minister of

Pakistan, Aitzaz Ahsan, Mohd. Tahseen of SAP, Sheema Kirmani Artist – Activist and others from Pakistan were part of these celebrations.

On the Morning of 15th August 2010, 10 Peace Marchers from India along with 17 Peace Marchers from Pakistan together crossed over to Lahore, Pakistan from the Attari- Wagah Border to a rousing reception by hundreds of Pakistanis. Later they went to the Mall Road in Lahore and within three hours collected over 220,000 rupees for the flood affected victims in Pakistan. Mazher Hussain represented COVA during the celebrations at Amritsar and the Peace March to Pakistan.

Meeting with the Prime Minister, Policy Makers and People of Pakistan in a Successful Visit An Indian Peace Delegation visited Pakistan from 17th to 25th March 2011. During their stay they visited Karachi, Hyderabad, Islamabad and Lahore. They met Pakistan Prime Minister Mr. Yusuf Reza Gilani, Sindh Chief Minister Mr. Syed Qaim Ali Shah, Senators of various political parties, civil society activists, journalists, members of business community, and students amongst others. The 12 member Indian delegation was led by Mr. Kuldip Nayar (veteran journalist) and included Mr. Mahesh Bhatt (Film Personality), Mr. Bhalchandra Mungekar (Memeber, of Parliament) Mr. Shahid Siddiqui (Editor, Nai Duniya), Mr. Jatin Desai (FOCUS), Dr. Mazher Hussain (COVA), Ms. Kamla Bhasin (SANGAT), Mr. Ramesh Yadav (FRI), Mr.Sanjay Nahar (SARHAD), Mr. Haris Kidwai (Peace Activist), Mr. Y. Laxmi Prasad (Former MP) and Mr. A. Krishna Rao (Journalist).

The Indian Delegation also had the opportunity to watch the Joint Session of the Pakistan Parliament addressed by Mr. Asif Ali Zardari,

Many members of both the house of Parliament (National Assembly and Senate) of Pakistan agreed to the suggestion of COVA that there is a need to form an India-Pakistan Forum of Parliamentarians to address the outstanding issues between both the countries. Peace organizations in India and Pakistan Peace Coalition have decided to work for the formation of such a Forum..

The members of the Delegation participated in many meetings, seminars and interactions in Karachi, Lahore, Hyderabad (Sindh) and Islamabad. The themes and concerns covered in these interactions were the need for uninterrupted and uninterruptible dialogue between India and

Pakistan, rationalization and relaxation of the visa regime, operationalisation of a joint mechanism to combat terrorism, release of all fishermen from the prison of each other’s countries, revival of India-Pakistan Judicial Committee on Prisoners, resolutions of water sharing disputes and opening up of trade for prosperity of both countries.

The visit received unprecedented coverage in the print and electronic media all over Pakistan.

Partners in Victory- Flags for Peace Campaign was jointly undertaken by a number of organisations of India and Pakistan where in thousands of flags of India and Pakistan tied together along with heart shaped stickers with both the flags were distributed to the spectators going in to the stadium to watch the Cricket World Cup Semi Final played on 30th March 2011 in Mohali. The Lead Organisations for the Partners in Victory- Flags for Peace Campaign was COVA along with Folklore Research Institute and Yuvsatta from India and PPC, Ajoka and Institute for Peace and Secular Studies, Pakistan.

Earlier, peace activists and cricket enthusiasts from Pakistan coming for the Mohali match were welcomed with garlands at the Wagah border by organisations in India and after serving lunch and refreshments, were escorted to Chandigarh and Mohali. Local people provided home stay and hospitality to the guests from Pakistan to further cement the People – to- People bond. The entire range of activities organised by the Campaign from the reception at the Wagah Border to preparation and distribution of flags and home hospitality to the Pakistani guests received extensive coverage in both the print and electronic media.

The “Mohali Magic” has created a new spirit by bringing everyone from the people to the Prime Ministers together for the same cause that is dear to and in the interest of all. The challenge now is to continue and sustain this “Mohali Magic’ till the goal of “cooperative solutions” and “permanent reconciliation” through “uninterrupted and uninterruptable dialogue” is reached to enable people of both the countries “to live together in dignity and honour”.

COVA had initiated and successfully facilitated similar Partners in Victory- Flags for Peace Campaign, in collaboration with a number of civil society organisations of India and Pakistan, during the Indo- Pakistan Cricket Series played in Pakistan in 2004. Orientation to Members of Indian Parliament

A 14 member Delegation of Indian Parliamentarians representing different political parties was invited by Pugwash Foundation to visit Pakistan to meet with their Pakistani counterparts, policy makers, journalists etc from 25th to 28th May 2011. On the request of the members of this Parliamentary Delegation COVA arranged an “Orientation Session on the Outstanding Issues between India and Pakistan” to enable the members of the Delegation to engage in informed and productive deliberations during their visit. Members of COVA along with other experts briefed the Delegation on the strategies for enhanced cooperation to counter terrorism, issue of growing water disputes between India and Pakistan, rationalization of the visa regime between the two countries, problem of the arrest of fisher folks

by both the countries and issues involved in the resolution of Siachin and Sir Creek. A Resource Kit providing information and background material on the issues listed above was also provided to the members of the Delegation for their ready reference.

Peace Updates

The E-Bulletin of COVA titled Peace Updates continued to inform people across the world on issues of Peace and Conflict. During 2010-11, Peace Updates carried informative material on the conflicts between countries around the world, facts and statistics of armed spending and costs of conflicts as well as reports of peace initiatives of different groups and organizations in different parts of the world.

Peace Updates has 18,000 subscribers all over the world who receive the bulletin directly and many more who get it through other mail lists who forward the Peace Updates to their subscribers.

MAG (Media Action Group)

To ensure that liberal and progressive voices striving for peace and social justice find space in the media and get heard in larger public domain, COVA has constituted MAG (Media Action Group) comprising of eminent activists and thinkers from across the country who issue joint press statements on issues and problems that come up from time to time and need response from progressive and liberal quarters. COVA facilitates in preparation of the joint press statements and their release to the media throughout the country through email.

Some of the eminent persdonalities who regularly endorse the MAG joint statements are Kuldip Nayar, Swami Agnivesh, Admiral Ramdas, Mahesh Bhatt, Kamla Bhasin, P.V.Rajagopal, Lalita Ramdas, Mohini Giri, Fr. Dominic Emmanuel and others.

Hyderabad Programs

Interfaith Forum: Mr. Rashad Hussain, Special Envoy of USA to the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), visited COVA on 4th August 2010 and participated in an Interfaith Meeting with scholars and religious leaders from all the religious communities in Hyderabad.

On 24th August 2010 Interfaith Forum-COVA in association with Indialogue Foundation organized an interfaith dialogue on Rights of Neighbours in Religions and hosted Iftar and Dinner at Aziz Villa, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. Religious leaders from the Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist Parsi communities addressed the gathering. Teachings of different religions on the theme were compiled and circulated on the occasion. Sisters from Brahma Kumaris tied Rakhis to all the guests and distributed sweets celebrating Raksha Bandhan.

On 16th September in view of the Allahabad High Court verdict coming on 24th September 2010 on Ayodhya issue Interfaith Prayers and peace Assembly was organized at a large Public Meeting at Charminar. The religious leaders from seven different faiths appealed to people to respect the court verdict and observe peace and brotherhood.

 

This was followed by another public meeting on 20th September at the Press Club Basheer Bagh. This meeting was also address by leaders of different faiths who appealed to the people to maintain peace and harmony in the wake of Ayodhya verdit and also in view of the Ganesh festival later in the month. On 21st September International Day of Peace was celebrated at Press Club, Somajiguda inviting religious leaders. 10 religious leaders and scholars from different faiths gave message of peace and harmony to the media on this occasion appealing to the people of Hyderabad and citizens of the country to maintain Peace and tranquility on and after the judgment that comes on Ayodhya Issue on 24th Sept 2010. United Nations declared Gandhi Jayanti as International Day of Peace. Interfaith Forum-COVA organized a candle light vigil for peace one 2nd October at Necklace Road People’s Plaza spreading the message of peace and harmony. Some other NGOs also participated in this event.

On 5th December Interfaith Forum –COVA organized a round table meeting with Swami Agnivesh at Shri Narendra Bhavan, Rajmohalla. Religious leaders from different faiths were invited. Swami Agnivesh spoke on challenges to the religious leaders in promotion of communal harmony. He also expressed concern on the scams and said this is financial terrorism. 25 persons representing different religions attended this meeting.

On 16th December United Christmas Celebrations were held at Open Air Theatre (Lalitha Kala Thoranam). Interfaith Forum-COVA extended invitation on behalf of the organizers to the religious leaders. It was a unique program. Religious leaders, supporters of Interfaith Forum from Islam, Hinduism, Zoarastriansim, Budhhism, Jainism and Sikhism extended greetings to the Christians on this occasion and gave message of peace. Boat Christmas was held on 17th December at Jalavihar in Hussain Sagar Lake. All the religious leaders participated and gave messages of peace and harmony.

Peace Initiatives in Hyderabad: Peace Vigil– after witnessing violence during the Ganesh processions in the past, COVA with other CSOs started conscientious efforts to keep vigil for peace and amity during Ganesh Processions. COVA mobilized over a 100 volunteers to maintain peace during the Ganesh procession on 22nd September 2010.

In view of Jummatul Vida* (last Friday of Ramazan), on 3rd September Peace Volunteers of COVA and other NGOs assembled at COVA. These volunteers were posted at vulnerable points to keep vigil to ensure that no untoward incident takes place. They stayed till end of Friday prayers. Some Volunteers were also requested to monitor situation in their area attending prayers in the nearby mosques. The same evening, women of both the communities of Kattalguda arranged Iftar Party on 6th and followed it up with Eid Milap program to promote amity and goodwill amongst the communities of the area. For maintaining Peace Vigils in the old city during all such times when large gathering are expected and during times of tensions or conflicts, COVA invites and involves a number of other organizations also and coordinates closely with the police department.

Addressing Minor Communal Issues

GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation) had taken up construction of a road by trespassing land of Graveyard in the Toli Chowki area. Youth from the local community who were opposing the encroachment and the construction were arrested. COVA, PUCAAR in collaboration with other organizations diffused the tension by involving the Wakf Properties Protection Committee and obtaining a stay from AP High Court for stopping the road construction work.

With a criminal intention to disturb peace and create communal conflict, some persons burnt the religious flag of a community in Barkatpura. COVA- PUCAAR coordinated with members of both the communities in the area and with the help of the police re-hoisted the flag at the same location and brought situation from taking an ugly turn.

Peace Initiatives in Districts A team of COVA and other peace activists visited Kamareddy in Nizambad district on 17th August for fact finding on the communal tension in the area, held meetings with people of Hindu and Muslim communities to reduce communal tension and for maintaining peace in the area.

PUCAAR

People’s Union for Civic Action and Rights (PUCAAR) is the result of the effort of COVA to evolve a suitable model that enables marginalized communities to adopt rights based approach for claiming basic services and amenities as a matter of basic citizenship rights.

Formed in 2004, PUCAAR has been operating through the Basti Committees that it had formed to sensitise people to their problems, educate them about their rights and facilitate them to pressurize the authorities and the elected representatives to address and solve their problems.

But the notification issued by GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation) on 5th July 2010 for constitution of Ward Committees and Area Sabhas comprised of representatives of

residents’ welfare associations, tax payers associations, slum level federations, NGOs, registered associations, Mahila Mandalis and prominent citizens transformed the dynamics of governance at the grassroots and for the first time enabled a large section of the people to participate in and contribute to the planning and implementation processes of the local government.

Realising the very great potential that empowered Area Sabhas and Ward Committees could have for providing participatory, transparent, efficient and corruption free municipal services and governance, PUCAAR adopted a new strategy of working through increased participation in Area Sabhas and Ward Committees, instead of functioning only through Basti Committees and local groups and NGOs. In fact, the Basti Committees, local groups and NGOs are still part of the PUCAAR initiative but now they are being encouraged and oriented to participate in and work through the Basti Committees and Area Sabhas for greater leverage and optimal results.

The provision of Area Sabhas and Ward Committees as integral components of the local governance processes has enable PUCAAR to radically transform its approach and strategy for ensuring greater participation of, and benefits to the people at large and a new initiative under the banner of Citizen’s Assertion Campaign was launched in 2010-11.

Citizen’s Assertion Campaign: Taking Politics Beyond Elections

Citizen’s Assertion Campaign is designed to take people beyond divisive politics and sensitize them to become conscious of the real problems and issues that affect them; motivate them to assert their rights and pressurize politicians and officials to redress their problems and compel politicians to compete for serving the people instead of just vying for their votes once in five years through divisive and corrupt politics.

Political Agenda by the People

As people live their problems, they understand them best. Hence it is time that people set the agendas for the development of their areas and even of the country – what problems are to be addressed and with what priorities. It is only when people set the political and development agendas then the real, meaningful and sustainable development of respective areas and also of country can take place.

Gram /Area Sabhas: Opportunity for People to Set Political Agendas

The constitution of Grama / Area Sabhas and Ward Committees provide for the agenda for development to be set by the people. But this can happen only if common people understand the importance of participating in this process and come forward to participate in all such meetings of the Grama / Area Sabhas to set the agendas for the development of their areas and monitor that the implementation of programs are as per plans and without corruption.

Setting up Political Competition

Experiences have shown that if a representation is submitted to the elected representative and also to the defeated candidates of the area, the defeated candidates are more keen and faster in taking up the issues with the concerned authorities. Once the elected representative learns about the initiatives by the defeated candidate(s), he /she immediately plunges into action to take up the issue and the credit for its resolution. The chances of people’s problems being addressed and resolved become much higher if both the elected and defeated leaders are approached.

Sensitization and Enlistment of People

During 2010-11, PUCAAR reached out to 20 communally sensitive Wards in the old city areas of Hyderabad to motivate and train members of the general public to participate actively and effectively in the Area Sabhas and Ward Committees and thereby determine the development agenda and direction in their respective localities.

A two pronged approach was adopted of motivating activists and concerned citizens in different localities to apply for positions in Ward Committees and Area Sabhas and secondly of reorienting CBOs and local groups to adopt rights based approach with focus on influencing governance and development through active and consistent engagement with local bodies. After the publication of notifications for membership of Ward Committees and Area Sabhas, PUCAAR launched massive campaigns in the localities to educate activists and grass root workers on the concept, importance and powers of Area Sabhas and Ward Committees and motivate them to apply in large numbers. In all 60 awareness meetings were organized in different Wards and a large number of people started applying for membership of Ward Committees and Area Sabhas. PUCAAR also helped 50 persons in obtaining, filling and submitting their nomination forms. Special attention was paid to motivate women to participate and assistance was provided to them for filing their nominations. Though some of these people managed to find places in Area Sabhas and Ward Committees, a large number of those who were very active and eminently qualified for selection were kept out due to machinations by political leaders who tried to induct their own followers into these bodies. In order to ensure that they do not get demoralized and continue to utilize their capacities and commitment for public good, PUCAAR enlisted them in the Change Activists program. People were further informed that even if they are not inducted as Ward Committee or Area Sabha members, they can still participate and contribute to the Area Sabha meetings as members and attend the Ward Committee meetings as observers by virtue of being registered voters of that area.

Change Activists

To take the Citizen’s Assertion Campaign forward, Change Activists were enlisted and provided continues training and exposure to enable them understand issues and problems, sensitise and enlist support of the community, design and launch advocacy campaigns, interact effectively with politicians, officials and the media to facilitate redress of local issues and influence planning and policy formulations in the local bodies.

Presently PUCAAR has over 60 Change Activists who are active and committed in the field and are regular in attending the monthly training programs organised on the second Saturday of every month on topics like importance and functioning of Area Sabhas and Ward Committees, situation analyses of their areas, identification and articulation of local problems, preparation of development plans, monitoring implementation, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance, dealing with politicians, officials and the media, filing RTI and PIL etc.

Change Activists are encouraged to associate with and operate through the groups and associations in their areas for greater leverage and optimal results.

Enlistment of Local Organisations and Groups

CBOs, SHGs and Resident Welfare Associations of the area are enlisted as partners. If there are no such groups then the residents are encouraged to form and register such associations. Regular training and orientation programs are also imparted to them through monthly meetings and interaction programs on the themes of importance and functioning of Area Sabhas and Ward Committees, situation analyses of their areas, identification and articulation of local problems, preparation of development plans, monitoring implementation, dealing with politicians and government officials, using RTI to solve problems etc.

Change Activists and local groups and program officers of PUCAAR work together to compile a comprehensive information data base of the Ward, identify local problems through consultations and situation analysis, make representations to officials, elected representatives and other political leaders of the area and file RTI application to obtain information about specific problems and use this information for advocacy to solve the problem etc.

Achievements of PUCAAR in 2010-11 Number of Wards covered : 20 Area Wise Information- 18 Wards Number of Change Activists: 63 Situation Analysis Conducted: 20 Number of RTI Applications filed at community Level- 57, Number of RTI Applications filed at Central Level :20 Department covered: GHMC, Health, Educations, Archeology, Water Works, Electricity, Wakf Board, and Revenue Number of representations filed by CBOs / Change Activists: 50 Number of representations filed at Central Level: 30 Public Interest Litigations (PIL) on Census Duty for Teachers: Teachers of government schools were sought to be used for census duty in February – March 2011. Fearing that assignment of teachers to Census duty just before the final examinations could adversely affect the studies and careers of a large number of students, mostly from the government schools, PUCAAR made a number of representations to various authorities with a request to desist from deputing school teachers to census duty but no response was received. As a last resort, PUCAAR filed a PIL in the matter in the High Court of Andhra Pradesh and was successful in getting a direction from the Court to the concerned authorities to avoid using the services of schools teachers during school hours. As a result, the education of the students was protected and the census work was also carried out but after school hours.

Health Camp:

PUCAAR, in collaboration with Lions Club conducted a Muti Health Camp at Ziaguda. 400 persons availed the facility of medical checkup and treatment and 200 reading glasses were distributed free of cost to the poor of the area.

Empowerment of Women

COVA- Kasturba Gandhi Peace Center (CKGPC)

Under Social Empowerment of Women Program COVA started Kasturba Gandhi Peace Centre (CKGPC) in the year 2009-2010 to focus on the issues of women particularly to address the problems faced by adolescent girls and to empower them through sensitization, empower them to claim their due share in society and motivation them to become ambassadors of Peace and non violence.

CKGPC is working in 35 localities viz. Kishan Bagh, Chirag Ali Nagar, Sikh Chowni, Kali Qaber, Kattalguda, Noor Khan Bazar, Chaderghat, Bahadurpura, Kumarwadi, Jagdish Huts, Shaheen Nagar, Hafez Baba Nagar, Rajiv Gandhi Nagar, Falaknuma, Phool Bagh, Riyasat Nagar, Naga Bowli, Khidki Bod Ali Shah, Madannapet, Kurmaguda, Kanchan Bagh, Habeeb

Nagar, Baba Nagar, Sadat Nagar, Errakunta, Fatima Nagar, Gowlipura, Lalitha Bagh, Sarojini Nagar, Murtuza Nagar, Chandrayangutta, Ali Nagar, Somnath Temple, Saraswati Nagar, Rahmat Nagar

Locality Organisations and Aman Saheli Groups

In all the 35 areas in which it is working, CKGPC has enlisted local groups and organisations as members along with the formation of 20 Saheli Groups for adolescent girls. CKGPC facilitates all its member groups to work for the empowerment of women by providing them orientation and training on social and gender issues, skill development and the benefits of adopting rights based approach through Monthly Meetings and Awareness Programs that are organized for all the members groups. Apart from issues of gender, health, education and skill development programs, the themes and topics that are covered in these monthly meetings are situation analyses of their areas, identification and articulation of local problems, preparation of development plans, monitoring implementation, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance, dealing with politicians, officials and the media, filing RTI and PIL etc. Collaboration with PUCAAR

CKGPC works in close collaboration with PUCAAR in propagating and implementing the Citizen’s Assertion Campaign. CKGPC played an active role in sensitizing and facilitating a large number of women to apply for membership of Ward Committees and Area Sabhas and motivating them to undertake initiatives for the redress of local problems and civic issues through the municipal and other government bodies. 15 members of CKGPC have enlisted as Change Activists and take active part in all the Monthly meetings, activities and initiatives of PUCAAR. Situation Analysis

Members of CKGPC conducted Situation Analysis in 10 localities on the civic issues of the areas. The analytical findings helped local people to gain enhanced awareness about the range and nature of problems in their areas and motivated them to submit petitions to elected representatives, other leaders of the area and concerned departments to redress the problems pertaining to water, sewerage, electricity and reconstruction of roads etc. Use of Media

People of Kali Khaber slum involved the electronic media to highlight the civic issues and problems being faced by them in their area. TV9, a leading channel of Andhra Pradesh, prepared and telecasted a story on the issues and problems along with interviews of members of CKGPC and community leader of the area. Immediately after the telecast of the program, the local Corporator and the authorities of concerned departments initiated action and their problem pertaining to drinking water and sewerage were solved.

Peace and Harmony Initiatives

CKGPC seeks to promote peace and amity in the localities by forming mixed groups and providing regular orientation the issues of peace and communal harmony. CKGPC members played an active role in maintaining peace in their localities during the Ganesh procession and Ramazan festival.

Training Programs

CKGPC organized a training program on violence against women. In this program 45 Muslim and 39 Hindu women participated. Ms. Sandhya of POW, Ms. Ambika from Aman Vedika, Mr. M.A.Shakeel of HRLN, Ms.Mumtaz Fatima from .MANUU and Ms. Supriya were resource persons of the program. On 8th and 9th February, 2011 the department organized a two days workshop on Gender Sensitization and Women Empowerment at Urdu Ghar, Moghalpura, Hyderabad. It was in collaboration with MANUU. Prof. Rama Melkote, Prof. Shahida, MANUU, Dr. Rehana Sultana, Director, Women Studies, MANUU, Ms. Aparna Adhikar, MAKRO Foundation and Ms. Farida Raj, Activist were the resource persons of this workshop. About 70 women from various bastis attended the Workshop and were awarded Certificates of Participation by MANUU.

The department organized International Women’s Day on 8th March 2011 at Moghal Garden Function Hall at Engine Bowli, Hyderabad. About 300 women and girls participated in this event. Mr. Cengiz, Director, Indialogue Foundation of Turkish Group and Mr. Nurdin Kaparov, an officer of the Foundation were guests of the function. Ms.Aparna Adhikari from MAKRO Foundation was the resource person for the event.

Summer Camps

CKGPC allotted 15 summer camps to the local SHG groups in 15 localities exclusively for girls including women for providing skills training and recreational opportunities during May 2011. 300 girls and women from Hindu and Muslim communities participated in these summer camps. Training in Karchob, Flower making, knitting, Hand embroidery, friendship bands & necklace making, painting and mehndi designing provided to the participants with carom, chess, skipping and other recreational activities. Resource persons from different institutions gave awareness programs to the participants.

Other activities

A member from Sri Krishna Committee who was on a study tour on Separate Telangana issue was facilitated to meet and interact with the people of Mohajir Camp in Mecca Masjid, business community of Lad Bazar and Talab Katta localities. Representatives of CKGPC along with a team of professors from Department of Women Studies, MANUU drafted a model Nikahnama (marriage document) for security and equal rights of women.

CKGPC along with other women’s organisations conducted a meeting on 11th November 2010, on Domestic Violence Act and formed Samyukta Mahila Sabha to address to the women’s issues. As a part of violence against women week (VAW) CKGPC along with other civil society organisations formed into APCGJ and organized meetings for violence against women along with a candle light program at Necklace road to highlight the issue of women.

South India Muslim Women’s Network:

As a much felt need to address the issues of Muslim women in South India, COVA initiated formation of a network of Muslim women in South India and received much encouraging response from other states. A meeting of women organizations of South India was organized on 18th Oct. at Bangalore to strengthen the South India Muslim Women’s Network. 13 Muslim women NGOs of South India attended this meeting. Women’s education and health, domestic violence against women and women empowerment are taken into the agenda to deal with on priority. Head quarter of the network will be at COVA, Hyderabad. At Bangalore it will operate from the office of AASRA NGO and shall hold meeting every month.

ICAN- Children’s Action Network

Activities were carried out in schools and colleges to promote general awareness and inculcate values of Peace, respect for plurality and to undertake initiatives for social justice among 20,000 students of Hyderabad during the year 2010-11.

Summer Camps for Communal Harmony-2010:

In line with its vision to bring different communities together at a common platform, COVA conducted 20th Summer Camps for children for Communal Harmony-2010. This year 36 camps, (26 in Hyderabad and 10 in Warangal District.) from 3rd May to 28th May were organised. 2470 children from different communities and faiths in the age group of 8-18 years participated. School dropouts also participated in these summer camps and were motivated to continue education again.

The overall activities were run jointly by COVA, Children’s Department, Youth-TRAC and Koshish Theatre Group. CKGPC organized separate camps for exclusively for girls. A total of 21 awareness sessions were conducted covering topics like nutrition, heath 104, 108 and 1098 services, environmental conservation, communal harmony, communications skills, play for peace games, Indo-Pak relations, self defense, and gender equality etc.

On 1st June 2010 valedictory function was organized at Quli Qutub Shah Stadium, Hyderabad. Mr. N Madhusudhan Reddy, IPS, DCP South Zone Hyderabad was the chief guest of the function. Around 1000 children and youth participated in the valedictory function. The guests distributed prizes to the winners of different sports and games events.

Awareness Programs

133 Awareness sessions were conducted in 50 member schools during the year 2010-2011. A total of 12,085 children participated in these sessions that covered issues of health, nutrition, yoga, personality development, motivation, stress management, leadership skills, science and nature, environment protection, fuel conservation, animal welfare, importance of forests, Chemistry as fun etc. One workshop was also conducted on Sculpture Art – making of idol of

Lord Ganesha with environment friendly material. A visitor from Malaysia made a presentation about the country, its history, culture and people.

Some of the resource organizations who collaborated in conducting the Awareness Sessions include National Institute of Nutrition, Petroleum Conservation Research Association, Andhra Pradesh Council of Science & Technology, PCRA, MACRO Foundation, PIPFPD A.P. Chapter, and Art of Living etc.

Sambandh- Annual Competitions

To commemorate the memory of the hapless victims of Hiroshima and to build public opinion against a repeat of such a criminal action against humanity, COVA, in collaboration with Coalition for Nuclear Disarmament and Peace(CNDP) and other groups organised Sambandh- the 8th Annual Competition for school and collage students from Hyderabad and Secunderabad in India in which around 600 students from different schools and collages participated in essay writing, quiz, debates, slogans, poster writing and one act plays on the topics of nuclear disarmament, demilitarization, India- Pakistan relations and the message and teachings of Gandhi.

Annual event Sambandh was organized on 6th and 7th August to commemorate the Hiroshima Nagasaki holocaust to sensitize students on the dangers of war, atomic and nuclear energy. Events for the competitions included essay writing, debate, elocution, quiz, slogans, poster making and one act plays on the theme of Beyond War and Violence. Over 500 students from 20 schools and colleges participated in this event.

Bal Adalat

On 28th December Bal Adalat was organized. 150 students from member schools participated. The students put up questions on the issues of education, health, recreation, lack of basic amenities in schools, unhygienic and unhealthy environment and need for quality and modern education to government officials and elected representatives present. The officials appreciated the concern and study of the student on different social issues and assured to take steps to redress them.

The following day The Hindu carried an interview of the Collector of Hyderabad taken by Mr. J.S. Iftekhar on reforms in education needed.

Summer Activism Program

There was no practice of Summer Camps in the old city areas of Hyderabad in early 1990’s when COVA started Summer Camps to promote communal harmony and provide recreational opportunities to the children from deprived sections. During the past two decades, the idea of Summer Camps caught on in the old city and for the past two years such camps are being organized in every nook and corner by educational institutions, voluntary organizations and neighborhood groups. As it was no longer necessary for COVA to organize summer camps, it was decided to break a new path from this year and start a Summer Activism Program for school students.

The month long Summer Activism program that started in the last week of May 2011 with 35 students selected from 15 schools aimed to provide awareness to students to different social issues like child labour, child rights, responsible citizenship, right to education, right to Information, gender justice, principles of advocacy, using media for advocacy, leadership training, understanding communalism etc and also introduce them to the concepts and practice of advocacy for social transformation. Apart from orientation sessions in the first week of training, the students were also taken for field visits to interact with different stakeholders and understake situation analysis in the localities.

After the Orientation sessions, the students divided into 4 Thematic Groups to take up advocacy on the issues stray dogs, open manholes, governments schools and drinking water problem and have started working for addressing these issues. The Thematic Group on Stray Dogs has already achieved success in address the menace of stray dogs by making effective representation to the concerned authorities. See the Case study: Leashing Stray Dogs!

It is hoped that the summer activism Program will provide the necessary motivation, awareness and skills to the students to become conscientious and effective Change Activists through their life.

PEP- Para Education Program

COVA conducted 18 Para-education sessions on personality development, and communication skills in member schools. The students were trained in essay writing, debating, elocution, quiz and other such communication skills apart from training in principles of leadership by MACRO Foundation. 500 students benefited from these sessions.

Promising students from the PEP Program were identified and sponsored for participation in different literary competitions and also involved in the Bal Adalat Program.

The school managements were happy to give written Feed back on our activities carried out for students. The managements of the member schools have shown keen interest for such programs in their institutions.

Rally

On 24th and 25th January 2011 a Painting Competition and a Rally on oil and gas conservation was organized in which 110 children participated. Prizes were given to the students whose paintings were selected.

Eid Milap

COVA encourages joint celebration of festivals to promote mutual understanding and good will between communities. On 16th September students of Don Bosco Institute organized Eid Milap Program for students of neighbouring schools.

Books Distribution for Children’s Libraries:

COVA received 25 gaylords containing 80,000 books from its partner Omprakash Foundation, USA for free distribution to 200 educational institutions in Hyderabad and 10 districts of Andhra Pradesh to start libraries for children. These institutions include government and private schools for deprived areas and also non formal centers for drop out / working children.

Programs of Teachers

A Teachers Training Program on Teaching Techniques was organized on 22nd January 2011. 37 teachers from member schools participated

On 24th February an orientation program for teachers was organized on Eye Care at Paragon High School, Vattepally. Resource Person from LV Prasad Eye Institute took the session. 16 teachers attended this orientation program.

Youth TRAC (Training, Resource and Activity Center) Peace Vigil on Ganesh Immersion – after witnessing violence during the processions of Ganesh Immersion on some occasions, COVA with other CSOs started conscientious efforts to keep vigil for peace and amity during the processions. On 22nd September 2010, COVA mobilized peace volunteers and deputed them in groups at some sensitive locations on the route of the procession to contain the outbreak of violence if any. The Ayodhya verdict was pronounced on 30th October 2010. There were apprehensions and rumors about communal conflicts in the after math of the judgment. Youth TRAC undertook initiatives to maintain peace in sensitive localities by mobilizing 50 Youth Peace volunteers who visited sensitive areas to have a feel of the situation and kept vigil along with members of local groups to prevent any untoward incidences in the areas. College Discussion Groups

Lectures on Palestine- Youth Trac organized a series of lectures by activists from Palestine Ms.Lisa Taraki and Mr. Thomas on 25th and 26th September 2010 at the University of Hyderabad, IIIT and St. Ann’s College. A Public Meeting and a press conference was also organized at Press Club, Basheer Bagh.

Programs Special Envoy of USA to the OIC- Mr.Rashad Hussain, Special Envoy of USA to the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), guest of US Consulate, Hyderabad visited COVA on 4th August 2010. Youth TRAC utilized this opportunity to organize a Round Table meeting with youth from corporate world, field of education and social work to exchange views on the concerns of youth for development.

Youth TRAC organized a lecture on 10th August in association with US Consulate on “–Roots of Service… NGOs andYouth Organizations in Community Service Work” by Dr. Michael Malahy Morris, from USA. 50 Youth and NGO representatives of Hyderabad attended this lecture.

Lectures on the Situation in Pakistan- Organized lectures of Mr. Iqbal Haider, former law Minister of Pakistan at Hyderabad Central University and IIIT on the theme of “The Current Situation in Pakistan”. Students at both the institutions interacted enthusiastically with the speaker and gained valuable insights about the situation and issues in Pakistan.

Lectures on Jammu & Kashmir- Youth TRAC organized lectures on the Current situation in Jammu & Kashmir: the Way Forward. on 8th September at IIIT Hyderabad. Admiral Ramdas and Dr. Mazher Hussain shared their experiences in Kashmir and gave historical background of the issues and problems that persist in the valley.

A lecture by Prof. Ratan Lal Hangloo of University of Hyderabad was organised on the topic of “Crises in Kashmir: Genesis and the Way Forward” at Maheshwari Complex. Youth and people from different walks of life attended the lecture.

Lecture on Maoist Violence- On 19th January 2011 Mr. P.V. Rajgopal, President Ekta Parishad visited COVA. He delivered a public Lecture on “Increase in Maoist Violence – Reasons and Remedies” invited audience and the staff members had a good interaction with him.

Screening of documentaries on nuclear issues was arranged with interaction by Dr.Surendra Gadekar. Three such programs were organized at Sharada Mahavidyalaya, Princess Esin Education Centre and Vanitha Mahavidyalaya.

Awareness programs were also organized at Government Girls Degree & P.G. College, Hussaini Alam, Sharadara Mahavidyalaya, St. Ann’s College, MESCO College of Management and Pharmacy and IIIT. The Topics covered were Health and low cost nutrition, Petroleum conservation, Personality Development and Stress Management. About 1000 students and youth attended these programs.

Mock Parliament

In association with other NGOs, Youth TRAC started preparations for organizing a Mock Parliament by college and university students to sensitise them about the nuances of legislation and functioning of Parliament. 71 students nominated by 32 prestigious institutions including IIIT, Hyderabad Central University, Moulana Azad National Urdu University, Osmania University were selected. These students were trained to formulate and debate on the Communal Violence Bill and Prevention of Corruption Bill.

However, due to the Telangana Agitation that prevented regular functioning of educations institutions all through last year, the Final Session of Mock Parliament could not be organized. It is proposed to organize it in August 2011.

Vocational Training Youth TRAC- COVA collects information about vocational training programs offered by different government, corporate and private institutions and propagates this through its network of volunteers and CBOs in different localities. A large number of youth benefit from the information and enroll in different courses and programs. GMR Livelihood Training Institute is taking students in their free residential livelihood trainings for boys and day trainings for girls on the recommendations of COVA. In 2010-11 COVA was able to enroll 20 youth in this Institute.

Research and Studies

Study on Patient Satisfaction in the Government Urban Health Posts (UHPs) The health services at Urban Health Posts (UHPs) are reported to be very poor and unsatisfactory. A decision taken to undertake a study on the problems and approached the District Collector and the District Medical & Health Officer (DMHO) for issuing a circular to all the UHPs to cooperate with the researching team of COVA. After constant follow ups the DHMO issued a circular to the all UHPs, marking a copy to COVA along with the List of UHPs. A Pilot Study was conducted covering three UHPs on the theme of “Study on Patient Satisfaction in the Government Urban Health Posts (UHPs) of Hyderabad district, Andhra Pradesh”. In 2011-12, it is proposed to extend the scope of the Study to cover all the UHPs and utilize the findings to lobby for improvement in the services and facilities offered by UHPs.

Baseline Survey of Refugees in Hyderabad Since October 2010, COVA started working for the Refugees living in Hyderabad in collaboration with UNHCR (United Nations High Commission for Refugees). In order to understand their problems and situation and design appropriate interventions, COVA undertook a Base Line Survey of 500 refugees and their families living in Hyderabad. Students of the

University of Hyderabad helped in conducting this Survey. The finding have been analysed using the SPSS software package and the information obtained is being used to design appropriate programs for interventions with the refugees and undertake advocacy with the Police and other government department on the problems and issues faced by the refugees. Studies by Foreign Scholars Ms. Emanuela Mangiarotti, PhD scholar from Brussels School of International Studies, University of Kent, Belgium has selected COVA as an important interlocutor for her research on Transcending Communalism in Hyderabad: The Multiple Dimensions of Interfaith Relations and the Potential for Social Change. COVA is providing local supervision for her work. COVA also assisted Ms. Jessica Lane, student of Master studies at SIT Graduate Institute; USA complete her research work to prepare for her capstone paper concerning leadership and social change in the Old City of Hyderabad. Her work has great potential to contribute to community empowerment and social change in the jurisdiction of COVA.

Ms. Simone Greenleaf and Ms. Joie Cooper, students of Masters in Society from Hyderabad Central University were provided support in their research on Muslim Girls in Education.

Ms. Heike Kluve a Desk Officer of Andheri-Hilfe Bonn in Germany, a German NGO who is supporting partner organisations in India and in Bangladesh and doing a research work for her Ph. D at the University of Goettingen is being provided support in her research work by COVA.

Research on Human Rights Violations in Kashmir

Ms. Smitha Chakraborty of Kolkotta is engaged in a study on Human rights violations, disappearances and custodial torture in Jammu & Kashmir for her Masters Degree leading to Ph.D from the University of Kolkotta. COVA is designated as her external guide and facilitating her field work.

COVA as Field Placement Centre for IGNOU-PRIA Continuation Education Program

COVA is also serving as a Nodal Agency for PRIA- IGNOU Post Graduate Program. Radhika Modur who is doing MA in Participatory Development from IGNOU-PRIA was placed at COVA for internship. She completed her work and submitted her dissertation to IGNOU for her degree.

Exposure Visits to COVA

Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy Institute for Human Resource Development, Hyderabad requested COVA to organize an Exposure Visit and Orientation Session for their trainee officials. The Orientation Sessions on the topic of “Socio-economic and educational conditions of Muslim community in India” on 4th and 5th August 2010. 250 trainee officials attended this Orientation.

On 9th September 22 students of 1st year MSW from Roda Mistry College of Social Work visited COVA to gain practical knowledge of social work COVA is doing. An Overview of COVA with introduction of each department was given to students. Concept of Citizen’s Assertion Campaign was also explained with focus on the role of activists in building capacities of people to assert for rights. On 23rd November, 44 Students from Tripude College of Social Work, Sadar Nagpur, Maharashtra came on a study visit to COVA.

On 7th December 16 students from Shri Matru Shri College of Social Work visited COVA on a study tour.

On 10th February 32 students from Purushottam Thote College of Social Work, Nagpur came on an exposure and study visit to COVA.

A Delegation of 15 members from Afghanistan visited COVA on 30th March for exposure and study tour.

On 9th April 13 Delegates of South Asia Peace Alliance (SAPA) representing, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and other states of India attended an orientation program at COVA.

Other Initiatives

Philanthropy: Some individuals expressed desire to distribute new clothes to the needy in the working areas of COVA. Three most vulnerable localities viz. Kali Khaber, Kattalguda and Jangammet slums identified and the donors were taken to the areas on 9th December 2010 who distributed new ready made clothes to about 300 families. Legal Services - In collaboration with the District Legal Service Authority, Government of Andhra Pradesh a legal awareness program was organized on 29th January, 2011 at Indira nagar followed by Bahadurpura on 31st January and at Patelnagar on 25th March, 2011. The Secretary of Legal Services Authority provided information on the free services provided by the department to the needy people. On an average about 40 people attended each meeting. COVA collaborated with Joint Action for Water (JAW) and involved change activists in water testing in their areas. JAW trained these activists in water testing and provided water testing kits to volunteer who submitted their report to the organization for a follow up with the department. On 24th April Youth TRAC-COVA in Association with Career Guidance Council and SWEEKAR organized a career counseling program for students on Para medical courses.

Mr. V. Gouri Sankara Rao, Chairman,Council of Andhra Pradesh Consumers’ Organisations (CAPCO) – who was the resource person in Change Activists Training program on 8th January offered his services in organizing awareness programs on consumer rights and form consumer societies in different localities.

On 23rd May, Youth TRAC in collaboration with BYST organized Awareness Program on Entrepreneurship Development for the benefit of students of Nizam Alladin ITI. 

On 29th May, Youth TRAC organized Awareness Program on Entrepreneurship Development in collaboration with CGC and BYST. On this occasion Mr.Syed Ahmed Pasha Qadri, MLA released an informative Poster in Urdu Language. Mr.K.K.Rao, Chairman, South and West Chapter, BYST and MrVibhash Kumar from ALC India Ltd. addressed the youth. A program was also organized for the students of Government Girls ITI Mallepally on 30th May 2011 in association with BYST. Students were given information on Entrepreneurship. Mr.K.K.Rao from BYST offered free services for the aspiring students. Initiatives on Binayak Sen – COVA in collaboration with other civil society organisations addressed a Press Conferencs and organized a public meeting on the issue of the wrongful conviction of Binayak Sen. COVA also took the initiative to arrange special coverage of the issue in the print and electronic media in Andhra Pradesh. Anti Corruption Initiatives On 30th January 2011 members of COVA and PUCAAR participated in anti corruption Rally organized by NTR Trust from Langar house to Bapu Ghat. On 8th April Staff of COVA along with Change Activists participated to support the Rally against corruption expressing solidarity with Mr. Anna Hazare at Necklace Road followed by relay hunger strike at Dharna Chowk. Large number of NGOs, CSOs and other concerned citizens participated at both the places.

Solidarity with Japan On 18th March organized candle light tribute to the victims and solidarity with the bereaved Nation of the earthquake of 11th March that had taken aback the whole world. This program was organized under the banner of Disaster Relief Committee. Representatives of many organizations rallied

Independent People’s Tribunal- HRLN in association with COVA and other NGOs organized the Independent People’s Tribunal on 25th April 2011 on Catalysing Human Rights institutions on Justice delivery systems. The report of the Tribunal along with the recommendations will be submitted to the National human Rights Commission and

other national and international bodies working on Human Rights

Refugee Program

COVA started the Refugee Program in collaboration with UNHCR in October 2010 to provide to provide support to the 500 Refugees living in Hyderabad to enable them to deal with legal, psychological, medical, educational, economic and social problems that face. Monthly meeting are conducted to enable them to come out with their problems and difficulties.

Achievements of the Refugees Program in the last Six Months Police complaints resolved with the intervention of COVA: 5 Mobile disconnection got connected : 1 Issues of non or under payment of wages by employer : 2 No of Health cases got services of Government hospitals : 17 Health Cases taken to Nephro + health camp : 6 No of cases received legal counseling or aid from HRLN : 9 No of cases received socio – psychological counseling from MAKRO : 5 No of schools lobbied- 8 (3 Govt E.M schools and 5 private schools) Processing of renewals of Asylum Seeker certificate without going to Delhi : 3 No of vocational training centres lobbied for training & employment of Refugees: 4 Health camps conducted- 2 Number of Refugees who benefitted from the free Camp- 55 Total no of Home visits: 86 Orientation with Police officers: On 9th and 10th May 2011, Orientation programs police officers of Special Branch and the Law and order wing of the Hyderabad City Police was organized to sensitise them to the situation and issues of refugees. In all 90 police officials attended the program.

Vocational Training for Refugees : application forms have been collected from 40 Refugees who want to enroll in vocational training courses. Subsidised rice: Lobbied for getting subsidized rice for Refugees and got an Order to this effect from the Department of Civil Supplies Government of A.P.