Happy ‘Diwali’
‘Diwali’ or the festival of lights sets in motion the entire nation brimming with enthusiasm and joyful spirits Celebrations of festivals, especially Deepawali, have become more ritualistic and its sanctity and piety is being eroded gradually getting eroded in the din of pomp and show of the day thereby creating unbearable burden of pollution of air and natural water bodies. buying the firecrackers. This means a huge business for the apparel industry, firecracker, paint and household items and for sweets and gifts. According to broad estimates, the budget of corporate “gift” alone exceeds Rs 3,200 crore, and the sale of firecrackers to above Rs 500 crore. In all, India spends over 5000 crore rupees for the celebration of this annual event.
Judicious use of electrical consumption should be made and earthen lamps or diyas be lit to keep the festive spirits. Old clothes, utensils and other products can be donated to poor persons, instead of throwing them in the dustbin.
This solemn occasion also reminds us to take care of the poor and neglected segments of Indian society. By not wasting money on unnecessary things which one has already in plenty, the money thus saved can be used for feeding the hungry and the poor. Care should be taken to save sweets and other edibles which are otherwise to be assigned to waste basket to be distributed among destitutes and orphans. Woollen and other warm clothes which are not in frequent use can be donated to orphanages, old persons’ homes etc. The real meaning of Green Diwali is to share our joy with others and bring smiles on their faces. It is in this context that India Water Foundation in collaboration with UNEP-GEMS Water Programme organized a Regional Workshop on Water Quality in Asia and Pacific: Challenges and Opportunities held on 5th -8thNovember 2012 at India habitat Centre, New Delhi to focus attention on preservation of habitat and to sustained ecological balance. Not to pollute our water bodies and river.
