Fostering Patriotism and Environmental Responsibility – ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’

‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign is envisaged as a culminating event of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.’ It is a tribute to all the bravehearts (Veers and Veeranganas) who have made the supreme sacrifice for the country. This campaign will commence on 9th August 2023 and conclude on 30th August 2023, with dedicated events on 15th August 2023.

‘MeriMaatiMeraDesh’ envisions a unified celebration of India’s soil and valour, commemorating the nation’s journey of freedom and progress. By connecting with the land and honouring the country’s heroes, this programme aims to instil a sense of national pride and inspire future generations to protect India’s cherished heritage.

This campaign comprises many activities and ceremonies to be conducted across the country at Panchayat/Village, Block, Urban Local Body, State and National levels:

Dedication of Shilaphalakam (Memorial): A fundamental aspect of the programme is to express heartfelt gratitude to all the ‘Veers’ and ‘Veeranganas’who have made the supreme sacrifice. On the Memorial, the names of the bravehearts shall be inscribed. These shall include freedom fighters, defence personnel, personnel of Central Armed Police Forces and State Police who laid down their lives in the line of duty. Memorials shall be erected locally within Panchayats/ Villages as well as urban sites – likely near Amrit Sarovars or local schools or other prominent locations.

‘Panch Pran’ Pledge: At the memorial site, people will take a solemn pledge covering Panch Pran of the Prime Minister, affirming their commitment to the country, to make India developed and self-reliant by 2047; Remove any trace of colonial mindset; Celebrate their heritage; Strengthen unity and respect those who protect the country; perform the duties of a citizen.

During the ceremony, people are encouraged to either individually or collectively take a selfie while taking the pledge with soil in the hand and upload it to the dedicated website https://yuva.gov.in

Vasudha/ Vandhananchayats/villages/urban local bodies will replenish Mother Earth by planting 75 saplings of indigenous species and developing the ‘AmritVatika.’

Veeron Ka Vandan: Felicitation ceremonies shall be held for honouring the freedom fighters and the families of deceased freedom fighters. These ceremonies shall also honour retired personnel from Defence, CAPF and State Police and the families of the bravehearts of these forces who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Felicitation shall be as per local traditions and customs.

Rashtragaan: Hoisting of the National Flag and singing of Rashtragaan shall be undertaken at the sites.

Amrit Kalash Yatra: Youth volunteers and other people from all corners of the country would collect Mitti from Panchayats/ Villages and bring it to the Block level. Similarly, Mitti shall be collected from smaller urban bodies and brought to larger municipalities/ urban local bodies. Following this, Mitti Kalash having the soil from the Panchayats/Villages/ Urban areas would be carried to the National Capital.