By Mewati Sitaram
Newly relaunched Valmiki Samaj Sangharsh Samiti on August 22, 2024, organized a felicitation ceremony for Rakesh Baidh, who is promoted to General Manager of Mahatma Phule Backward Class Development Corporation Limited. The event was held at Chembur Gymkhana Club which was attended by many honourable guests.
The ceremony featured distinguished guests including Rajesh Baidh, National President of All India Safai Mazdoor Congress; Dalit Mitra Govind Bhai Parmar; and renowned social worker Ashish Gadkari, trustee of the Zebro Foundation. Many notable figures from the Valmiki society were also in attendance.
Rakesh Baidh, during the ceremony, shared insightful perspectives and highlighted lesser-known opportunities. He emphasized that under the Mahatma Phule Backward Class Development Corporation Limited, loans are available for both domestic and international education. However, due to a lack of awareness, many individuals are unable to benefit from these opportunities. Baidh urged the Valmiki community to pursue higher education and take full advantage of these educational loans, stressing that without proper information, many are missing out on these valuable resources.
Baidh further highlighted that both state and central government’s aim to integrate Safai Karamcharis into various professions to foster their progress. He pointed out that trades such as electrician work, plumbing, and other technical fields are accessible and supported by government stipends. Baidh emphasized the importance of encouraging children from the community to pursue technical education and entrepreneurship. He also mentioned that loans are available to help individuals start their own businesses, promoting self-employment over traditional job roles.
Baidh also noted that long-term loans are available for higher education, with up to ten lakhs offered at low interest for studies within the country and twenty lakhs for education abroad. He encouraged everyone to take advantage of these opportunities. Additionally, he mentioned that the National Safai Karamchari Finance and Development Corporation and the National Scheduled Caste Finance and Development Corporation provide education loans. Detailed information about these loan facilities can be found on the respective websites of these corporations.
Dalit Mitra Govind Bhai Parmar In his address, highlighted that “While the constitution provides numerous provisions for Dalits, a lack of information often leads to confusion and misdirection regarding their rights. He emphasized the importance of being aware of these rights and seeking assistance from supportive officers. He expressed his commitment to addressing the community’s issues and praised individuals like Ved Sahab, who he regards as a source of pride and a valuable guide for the society.
Ashish Gadkari, a noted social worker and trustee of the Zebro Foundation in his address affirmed that the foundation is dedicated to supporting every needy student irrespective of their caste and creed. He highlighted their commitment to aiding children from the Valmiki society and emphasized their involvement in social work, community sports, and educational initiatives. Gadkari outlined their goal to make significant contributions to the community through various participation initiatives. He expressed their intention to collaborate with the Mahatma Phule Backward Class Development Corporation Limited to ensure that even the most marginalized children benefit from available resources.
The program also saw participation of Suresh Beniwal, Godar Saheb, Nandlal ji, Manish Shambuk Jainwal, Munir Singh Jhanjhotkar, Surendra Lohat, and Ravi Bahot. A live orchestra, conducted by Munir Singh Jhanjhotkar, was a highlight of the event, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.