GPF - India Activities/Program Report

April 2014 – May 2015

1. Program on Spiritual Leaders Role on Peace Building

Date: 13th and 14th April, 2014

Description: GPF India conducted program on Spiritual leader roles on peace building on the topic ‘The

Role of Religious Leaders to tackle Social Problems’ at Hotel Mapple Express, Kailash Colony New Delhi.

The forum comprised of prominent educationists, religious leaders, and academician. During the meeting

a comprehensive discussion took place on how social problems can be tackled effectively keeping in mind

the role of a religious and spiritual leader.

All the Dignitaries agreed to following points.

2. Program: Multicultural Conference

2. A multicultural conference Date: 13th May, 2014

Description: A multicultural conference was held at JNU in which representatives of GPF India

actively participated. Dr. Karan Singh, Amb. Ashok Sajjanhar, Dr. Pathak, Dr. Verma were some of

the dignitaries who were a part of this conference.

4. Program Meeting on how to keep peace and harmony in Indian societies

Date: 20th May, 2014

Description: How to Keep Peace and Harmony in Indian Societies? Pertaining to this topic, Guest from

Japan Mr. Aya Goto, Secretary of National Foundation for Communal Harmony and Amb. Ashok Sajjhanar

had a comprehensive discussion at foundation for communal harmony office along with Prof. Dr. Verma

Interfaith Foundation India Founder and GPF India Representative Mr. Dhruba Prasad Lamichhane.

3. Program: Interfaith Leaders Meeting

Date: 20th May, 2014

Description: Leaders came together and gave across the following viewpoints from their discussion.

Dr. Thomas: “Let’s make Delhi the MODEL and expand to entire country. Even we have our one Identity;

we have to make our shared Identities. Begin with yourself. (Wipe your friend's tears then help the

world)”

Arvind Mathur : “Once there is a problem , Religious Leaders have to come together to solve current

situation.”

Deepak: “This Forum has to start through Education and solving the problem through working together.”

Swami Sarbanda Sarswoti: “Lets go to community level and talk about this. One day, we have to start as

"We all are human being".

4. Program: Meeting with Sri Sri Ravi Shanker at Art of Living

Headquarter Date: 21st May, 2014

Description: Meeting with Sri Sri Ravi Shanker, Founder of Art of Living and GPF- India delegates at Art of

Living International Center Ved Vignan Maha Vidya Peeth 21st Km, Kanakapura Road, Udayapura

Bangalore, Karnataka regarding collaboration between two organization

5. Program: Vashudhaiba Katumbakam : Vision for 21st century Date: 9th September, 2014 at Hotel Connaught, Connaught places new delhi

Description: GPF India conducted an program on vashudhiba kutumbakam : vision for 21st century at

Hotel Connaught, Connaught places new delhi. There were 40 leaders from Academic, civil society,

different faith religious leader have share their profound knowledge about vashudhaiva kutumbakam and

its relevalances in current world. The discussion was comprehensive and fruitful and resulted in a signed

resolution from the participants in the end

6. Program Meeting with Different Organization and ViP on Date: 8th – 13th September

2014

Description: On his visit to India, GPF International Vice President met several dignitaries ranging from

religious leaders to educationists to discuss their ideas of peace and methods to propagate it in the Indian

Society. Mr. Aya Goto met Dr. Karan Singh, Vice Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia University New Delhi,

Prof. Talat Ahmad, Director of Tibet House, Geshe Dorji Damdul, Swami Shantatmanandaji, Secretary,

Ramakrishna Mission, Delhi, Chief of All India Imams organization Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, Dean of

Student Jamia Milia Islamia Univeristy Prof. Dr. Tasneem Meenai, Chief of Gandhi Peace Foundation Ms.

Radha Bhatta and Principal Alchon International School Dr. Ashok Pandey.

7. Program on “Gandhi and Peace” at Inter faith foundation India office

on 2nd October, 2014 Former Dean of Sociology department Prof. Razi Ahamad Kamal, Founder of Interfaith foundation Prof.

Dr. MM Verma, Principle of Ahlcon International school Mr. Ashok Pandey and GPF staff and volunteer

gather and discuss on peace through Gandhi .

8. Program on Interaction on Youth leadership for 21st century at GPF India

office Lajpat Nagar Date: 20th October, 2014

Description: Op Jindal Global University, Jindal School of International Affairs.

"A Private University Promoting Public Service, "Placement officer Mr.J. Shashidhara and Students at GPF

- India Office discussing about the International Youth Exchange Program and youth leadership in

21stcentury.

9. Program: Organizing Committee Meeting for Global Peace and

Leadership Conference 2014 Date: 26th October, 2014

Ret. Major General P.K Saigal, Prof. Dr. Pathak, Er. Dr. C.K Bhardwaj, Prof. Dr. Hem Raghabhan,

and team gather to discuss how to organized the Peace conference.

10. Program: Organizing Committee Meeting II for GPLC 2014 Date: 2nd November, 2014 Venue: Ahlcon Public School, New Delhi

Pictures:

11. Program: Global Peace and Leadership Conference 2014

Date: 9|10 December, 2014, Venue: India Habitat Centre, New Delhi

Background: The Global Peace Foundation uplifts the rich heritage of faiths, which are seen not as

obstacles to peace, but a fundamental source of reconciliation and peace- building. Here, we

would like to mention the noble names of Dr. Albert Schweitzer, Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Martin

Luther King Jr., and Mother Teresa, who made a great contribution to the cause of justice, equity

and fair play. Throughout the Ages, the spiritual leaders have been the source of peace and hope

and they helped in creating spiritual atmosphere for social cohesion.

All Spiritual Scriptures advocate “living for the greater good” of mankind. There is a need for

creative collaboration and multi-sector partnerships to overcome poverty, inequality, hunger,

disease, ignorance and illiteracy. When human aspirations are expressed in universal principles

and shared values, we can bring about fundamental changes in our societies and the whole world.

It is on a common platform that the spirituals leaders and scholars of all faiths can speak with one

voice against religious fundamentalism and extremism.

The power of a united family can quell any turmoil in the world. To this end, the Global Peace

Foundation - India, the Interfaith Foundation India and IASE University hosted this two- day Global

Peace Leadership Conference at Habitat Centre in New Delhi-India during the 9-10 of December

2014.

Summary: On December 9th and 10th, 2014, the Global Peace Foundation-India, in collaboration

with the Interfaith Foundation India and Institute of Advanced Studies in Education Deemed

University held a two-day Global Peace Leadership Conference at the India Habitat Centre in New

Delhi, India. The conference theme was “Peace and Harmony through Interfaith Partnerships.”

According to the GPLC – India, 2014 Coordinator Mr. Druba Prasad Lamichhane who is the

national representative of Global Peace Foundation India this year, the conference convened over

330 participants from many of the different regions across India as well as from Iran, Indonesia,

Turkey, Thailand, U.S.A., and Nepal. Faith leaders and scholars were invited to work together

around the vision of “One Family under God” to mitigate identity-based conflict that would to lead

to shared agreements, cooperation and lasting peace. This vision is particularly appropriate to

India, the home of so many of the world’s wisdom traditions, which has long honoured the idea

of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or “One world family.”

The Chief Guest of the conference was Dr. Karan Singh, a world-renowned spiritual leader and one

of India’s most distinguished political and social leaders, a senior member of India’s Upper House

of Parliament, the Rajya Sabha. Dr. Singh spoke on the history of the interfaith movement and the

contributions it could make to the world today, if each faith were to move beyond its narrow

confines and interests. He quoted the Vedic saying that “truth is one, the wise call it by many

names” and suggested that this could be the centerpiece of interfaith dialogue and relations.

Noting the many conflicts and challenges the world today, he urged interfaith movement to do

more and work more effectively together.

Mr. James Flynn, the International President of the Global Peace Foundation from the United

States of America, delivered the Keynote address. Mr. Flynn acknowledged the leading spiritual

role that India could play in the world, as the birthplace of so much of the world’s spiritual

wisdom. He noted, “India’s rich heritage of philosophy and spirituality, coupled with its growing

leadership roles in governance, economics, and technology, make it ideally poised to lead the

discussion on a global vision and framework for peace.”

To this end, he suggested the establishment of a working group of organizational and individual

partners that would build on the past work of a “global ethic” and create new initiatives to

advance its development. He invited those gathered to be a part of re-invigorating these efforts

as, “India’s diverse and broad base of religious and spiritual traditions make it ideally suited to be

a global model of faith in action. “ Mr. Flynn concluded that the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

or One Family Under God could be developed as a lived reality in India through collaborative

action.

Over the two day conference, there were six technical sessions covering a variety of topics,

including ways to address identity-based conflicts, articulating a global ethical framework and

engaging women and youth in the peace-building process. Over 100 multi-sector speakers

including the high commission of Canada spoke and engaged in formal and informal discussions on

peace-building and the unique perspectives that Indian spirituality and wisdom has to offer the

world community. Delegates included academics, scholars, young research students, educational

administrators and corporate leaders from around the country.

The conference concluded with the signing of a declaration of “A Vision and Global Framework for

One Family under God”. The declaration called the participants of the conference to “work

together to articulate universal ethical principles and values that can form the basis for social

cohesion, shared agreements and lasting peace.” The pledge included fourteen points that

outlined ways covered over the course of the conference in which faith and beliefs could be

expressed and made more effective through collaborative partnerships.

Students from the Ahlcon International School held cultural programs on both days of the

conference. The first day Samayee Gupte the granddaughter of the General PK Saighal a world

record holder for his work in addressing children’s education in India, offered a song by Ahlcon

International School students performed a dance on the first day and the Global Peace Foundation

anthem “We are One Family” at the closing.

Session I: Identity Based Conflicts: Globalization and Multiculturalism

Since WWII, identity-based conflicts between non-state actors has accounted for the majority of

violent clashes in the world. Many point to globalization and the increase in interactions between

groups where lines of difference can sharpen or erupt into conflict. This session will explore how

an increasingly interconnected world community can address identity-based conflicts. We will also

discuss how to build common ground among disparate groups to mitigate violence and increase

trust, respect and cooperation.

Session II: Interfaith Partnerships and Global Ethics

In the last 20 years, there have been many efforts to establish a global ethic as the moral basis for

peace in a troubled world. For such a framework to have true moral legitimacy, it needs to be built

upon universal, spiritual principles that are essentially of the ”laws of nature and of nature’s God.”

Faith leaders, as the moral conscience of a community and nation, should guide the way to

establish such a global ethic. This session will discuss key spiritual principles and ways in which

interfaith partnerships can advance a global ethical framework for peace.

Session III: Spiritual Wisdom of Ancient India and World Peace

India has a very rich heritage of philosophy, spirituality and has much to offer in the work of

building peace in our world today. This session will identify the shortcomings of the current

frameworks for peace and discuss how an Indian ethos can contribute to a lasting paradigm for

global peace and prosperity.

Session IV: Role of Women and Youth in Peace Building Process

Long-term, grassroots change and social reform must include the key constituent groups of both

women and youth. As such, strategic aims and educational goals must engage these groups on

every level. This session will discuss models and initiatives that have successfully involved or seek

to engage women and youth in the peacebuilding process

Session V: Corporate Social Responsibility for Peace, Harmony and Development

A responsible, sustainable and transparent approach to business and economic growth provides

best environments for strong families and healthy local communities. In fragile states or post

conflict societies, these are of particular importance for long-term peace and development. This

session will highlight the concept of corporate social responsibility and its contributions to global

peace.

Session VI: Moral and Innovative Leadership for Peace and Harmony

Regional hotspots of religious or identity-based conflicts threaten global security and

development. Global Peace Foundation promotes a unique approach to peace building that

emphasizes the need for moral and innovative leadership in every sector of society. This session

will discuss how a broad coalition of multi-sector partners working for the greater good can

address conflict and corruption in communities and nations around the world.

12. Meeting with H.E. APJ Kalam at his Residences Raja ji Marga

13. Program on Madrasha for Peace Madrasah Tajweedul Qu'ran . Date: 16th December, 2014

14. Program: Meeting at Rama Krishna Mission New Delhi and Observation of world famous

interfaith Leaders Swami Vivekananda Museum.Date: 16th December, 2014

15. Program: Meeting with Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi Imam, All India Imam Foundation, New Delhi

Date: 16th December, 2014

16. Program on Peace advocacy on social media A program conduted on Peace Advocacy Campaign in Social media Date: 5th to 10th January, 2015 at GPF

India office lajpat Nagar, Delhi. There were 15 participants who have done group discussion, interaction

and presentation.

Pictures:

17. Program on Crime Against Women Awareness Campaign Date: 21st March, 2015

Description: The ‘Youth for Peace’ participants conducted an awareness campaign in a bid to

sensitise the people around us about crimes against women. This took place in Connaught Place,

Delhi.

18. Program on collaboration Meeting at OP Jindal Global University

Sonipath Date: 24th March, 2015

Description: GPF Representative Dhruba P. Lamichhane lead the delegate to Meeting With O.P.

Jindal Global University Vice - Chancellor Prof. Dr. C. Raj Kumar. Rector of the University, Dean &

Prof Jindal School of Government and Public Policy Prof. R. Sudarshan, Prof. Stephen P. Marks

visiting professor from Harvard University, Officer at his office Sonipat, Haryana.

19. Program on “Culture of Appreciation” Date: 25th March, 2015

Description: Fostering the "Culture of Appreciation" by expressing gratitude and giving thanks to those

who are doing working hard and doing good and encouraging others to also do the same. This activity

was conducted by the “Youth for Peace” volunteers at Sakat Mall Delhi.

20. Program on Youth for Peace at the GPF India Office, Date: 26th March, 2015.

There 15 Participants who join the meeting including Dr. Markandey Rai Senior Advisor UN Habitat

Nairobi, Dr. Geshe Dorje Damdol Director of Tibet House, Prof Sena from Delhi, Dr. Subhash Chandra

Trustee GPF India and Friends from Norway Mr. Henrik. During the meeting GPF Volunteer have given

their presentation on their plan and work as a Part of Youth for Peace Program.

21. Program: Leadership Seminar

Date: 16th April, 2015

Description: The Youth for Peace participants organized a one day seminar for the students from

undergraduate courses in Aditi Mahavidyalaya, Haryana. The seminar comprised of 50

participants.

22. Program: ‘Youth for Peace’ volunteers for Orphanage Date:

17th April, 2015

Description: GPF India's Project "Youth for Peace" Volunteer

had an interaction and Creative Painting session along with

refreshments at Jamghat Orphans Center F-122, basement,

Saidullahjab, near Saket metro station.

23. Program: Interaction program on “Role of Youth for Peace and Development in

South Asia”

Date: 27th April, 2015 at OP Jindal Global University Sonipath , There were 40 youth gather at the

program . Vice Chancellor C. Raj Kumar have given remarks on potential of Asian youth in Global

Arena. Same time one minute silent meditation conducted those who lost life in earthquake victim

in Nepal.

Thank you everyone for your support for GPF India.

For more details Pls contact

GPF – India,

B-31 Lajpat Nagar-1, First Floor, New Delhi -110024

Email: india@globalpeace.org

Phone: +91-011-41029920

Website: globalpeaceindia.org