NEW DELHI, 31 January 2007 - The two-day international conference on "Peace, Nonviolence and Empowerment" concluded yesterday with the adoption of a "Satyagraha Centenary Declaration" reemphasizing relevance of teachings and principles of Mahatma Gandhi.
Commemorating 100 years of Gandhi's nonviolent ideology - satyagraha, hundreds of delegates from across the world participated in the conference, organized by Congress party. Led by President A.P.J. Kalam, the nation paid homage to Gandhi yesterday with it being his 59th death anniversary. Kalam and other leaders, including vice-president Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, United Progressive Alliance chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Leader of Opposition L.K. Advani offered floral tributes at Gandhi's memorial at Rajghat. The three service chiefs and noted Gandhian Nirmala Desphande also paid homage to Gandhi. The day is also observed as "Martyrs' Day." A two-minutes' silence was observed in memory of Gandhi, followed by playing of devotional songs, including the favorite hymns of Mahatma.
Among various functions held across the country, in Mahatma's memory, Sabarmati Ashram (Ahmedabad, Gujarat) is holding a special youth camp on nonviolence.
"Youth from all South Asian countries have come and they will stay here up to Feb. 4. They will be discussing how the South Asian countries can come near and try to work toward nonviolence and peace and tolerance."
Gujarat, being birthplace of Mahatma, various functions were held here yesterday, including lectures on Gandhian values and blood donation camps.
Displaying life of Mahatma, a photo exhibition was inaugurated by Information and Broadcasting Minister Priyaranjan Dasmunshi in the capital city.
