Principal’s Message: Remembering Lal Bahadur Shastri: A Champion of Sustainable Living
October 2nd is a special day in India, marked by Gandhi Jayanti, but another great leader, Lal Bahadur Shastri, also shares his birthday on this day. While we often overlook his contributions, Shastri Ji’s teachings and legacy deserve our attention, especially in today’s world where sustainability has
become a pressing concern.
Lal Bahadur Shastri was a man of simple living and high thinking. He led a life that epitomized sustainability, long before the term became a global
buzzword. His philosophy of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” (Hail the Soldier, Hail the Farmer) emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency and living in
harmony with nature.
As educational leaders, it becomes our responsibility to ensure that we incorporate these valuable lessons into our curriculum. We must teach our students the importance of:
Leading by Example: Shastri Ji’s leadership was characterized by humility, integrity, and a willingness to listen.
1). Simple Living: Shastri Ji’s own life was a testament to the power of simplicity. He believed in living with minimal resources and avoiding unnecessary consumption. Let us embrace simplicity that can greatly reduce our carbon footprint.
2). Self-Sufficiency: Shastri Ji encouraged Indians to grow their own food and be self-reliant. Let us promote local food systems, reducing reliance on industrial agriculture, and supporting small-scale farmers.
3). Sustainable Agriculture: Shastri Ji emphasised “Jai Kisan” and recognized the critical role of farmers in building a sustainable future. We can honour his legacy by adopting eco-friendly farming practices, conserving water, and reducing chemical usage.
4). Empowering Local Communities: Shastri Ji believed in the strength of local communities and their ability to drive change. Let us support local initiatives and empowering grassroots movements.
5). Leading by Example: Shastri Ji’s leadership was characterized by humility, integrity, and a willingness to listen.
