DISHA

DISHA attempts to involve youth in activities relating to development of the region, state, and nation by raising issues at the village level, where young people will find ample space to fit into social and political processes. We propose to mobilize youth on non-partisan, pro-poor development activities by creating a comprehensive programme for youth revolving around issues of the village and region. Tarun Tarveria, a new sangathan composed of village youth will partner with Eklavya Sangathan to become the fulcrum for such activities. We formed Tarun Tarveriya in response to the pronounced polarization of the state of Gujarat. It seeks to link and unite the youth of various socially constructed communities, such as those based on caste, economic classes, religion, and culture. Membership is primarily from the educated unemployed youth from marginalised communities including tribals, dalits and muslims.

Thus far, we have begun the youth mobilization process in Sabarkantha, Panchmahal, and ahod districts. Activities within the Tarun Tarveria groups in these districts include a training program, exposure visits, a sporting event, career guidance, awareness campaigns, and Tarun Samvad Kendra (youth discussion group). The first annual Tarun Samvad Kendra was inaugurated in Himmatnagar on 5th sep 2003. Our long-term goal is to create a mass movement for peace and pluralistic harmony through such initiatives.

DISHA’s experience has shown that real change is best initiated among youth, who are still the midst of developing their ideas about the world. It is difficult to erase the deeply rooted distrust and hatred among adult members of different religious factions – so instead, we are targeting young, fresh minds that are still open to thinking innovatively and positively about change.