Save the Citizens of "India That Is Bharat"

As we get closer to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, political party manifestos mainly focus on winning votes rather than essential areas for sustainable development. Even after 77 years of independence, our country still faces enormous challenges. It's high time for a comprehensive vision encompassing Social, Political, Economic, and Environmental aspects—a Justice Manifesto—that deals with the actual problems in 'India that is Bharat.' These problems have been ignored for too long and caused injustice for our people. Let's demand a change and create an action plan that brings justice for everyone.

We, entitled citizens, appeal to all national and regional political parties to craft a manifesto addressing the seven most crucial issues in our country. 

The Imperative of Our Time:

1. Quality and Affordable Education:
   
   Demand: Ensure affordable, possibly free, quality public education for every student, creating a level playing field for all, irrespective of background.
   
   The combined central and state government's expenditure on education stagnates at 2.9% of GDP, falling short of the 6% recommended by the 1966 education commission chaired by D S Kothari. In collaboration with state governments, the central government should allocate a significant portion of the national budget to education to match the above recommendations, focusing on 1) Research & Development and   2) Revamping the pedagogical framework  ( how we teach & learn ) at all levels of education.
   
   
2. Healthcare Accessibility:
   
   Demand: Guarantee that every citizen has access to affordable and high-quality public healthcare, alleviating the burden of unaffordable medical expenses. 
   
   The current GDP spent on healthcare is 1.9%, below the National Health Policy's target of 2.5% by 2025. In collaboration with state governments, the central government must launch a nationwide program to establish a “Health Clinic” in every village / ward, ensuring adequate staffing, facilities, and diagnostic services, as well as maintaining WHO recommendations of 3 beds for 1000 people. 
   
   
3. Local Skill Development and Employment Generation:
   
   Demand: Invest in local skill development programs to combat alarming youth unemployment rates. 
   
   The unemployment rate among youth aged 15-29 is 17.3% - Periodic Labour Survey   Report (2023), and it is soaring to 42% for graduates under 25 years as per the "State of Working India" (2023) report. The central government should establish Youth Capabilities Development Centers (YCDC) nationwide, operating at each mandal/block level, serving as hubs to identify, nurture, and mentor young people.
   
   
4. Decentralization of Governance and Development:
   
   Demand: Prioritize decentralization for inclusive and responsive governance.
   
   Despite the enactment of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, actual progress toward democratic decentralization has been slow for almost 31 years. The parliament is to amend the Constitution to provide revenue sharing from GST among all three levels of government – Central, State, and Local ensuring financial stability at the grassroots level. The central government must work towards achieving this constitutional safeguard.
   
   
5. Environmental Protection:
   
   Demand: Champion environmental protection by reviewing existing laws and bringing a unified framework. 
   
   The Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 needs enhancements for more robust protection in times of climate change. The central government should undertake a thorough review of existing environmental laws, including the Forest Conservation Act (1980), the Wildlife Protection Act (1972), the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act (1974), the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act (1981), and the Indian Forest Act (1927), and should bring a unified and practical framework for environmental protection.
   
   
6. Strengthening of Public Transport:
   
   Demand: Commit to enhancing accessibility, sustainability, and efficiency of the Public Transport system. 
   
   We have various policies and guidelines to create a sustainable transport system, such as  "Integrated Transport Policy -2001", "India's National Urban Transport Policy 2006", "The Road Transport Bill 2014", and The National Urban Transport Policy 2014". However, the main problem is the lack of implementation, which has resulted in unsustainable urbanization, motorization, poor infrastructure, and environmental damage. The central government should institute a unified framework, collaborating with State governments to enhance last-mile connectivity and position public transport as the preferred means for inter and intra-city travel.
   
   
7. Sustainability of Agriculture:
   
   Demand: Promote practices ensuring the long-term viability of agriculture, safeguarding farmers' livelihoods. 
   
   The MS Swaminathan Committee ( 2004 - 06) recommendations for fair MSP, comprehensive crop insurance, and increased investment in irrigation ( small and large scale ) are crucial for sustainable agriculture. The central government must enact legislation to legally safeguard MSP for farmers. Also, creating a framework for transforming local agriculture through Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and cooperatives, strengthening local production and consumption, enhancing warehouse infrastructure, and enabling direct sales from farmers to consumers is essential for a resilient and efficient agricultural landscape, supporting farmers and local economic development.

As we commemorate 75 years of the Republic, the 2024 elections represent an unprecedented opportunity to redefine our nation's narrative. This isn't just another political event; it's a momentous occasion where past aspirations meet present hopes. The urgency to act is not just about the ticking clock; it's a profound acknowledgment of the collective desire for justice. The Justice Manifesto isn't a mere document; it's a chance to shape a legacy, a time where promises are not just spoken but fulfilled, and the spirit of 'India that is Bharat' reaches its fullest potential.

Our country's progress is a testament to its resilience and potential. But, it currently stands at 132nd position in the Human Development Index (2023) among 191 countries. The United Nations' Sustainable Development Report (2023) places us at 112th among 166 countries. It is clear that a vision-driven, people-centric, sustainability-oriented approach is necessary for long-term progress.

By signing this petition, you become a torchbearer for justice. Share it widely with friends, family, and fellow citizens, urging national and regional political parties to adopt the seven key demands into their manifestos as high priority promises. Together, let us create a groundswell of support that compels our leaders to prioritize the real needs of the people. The time for a Justice Manifesto is now, and your signature can be the force that drives it into reality!

Thank you.

You can look into the JMI website and social media handles for more information

Website: https://justicemovementofindia.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmofindia
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jmofindia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmofindia
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmofindia