Citizens’ ‘people’s manifesto’ unveiled to promote sustainable development in Shimla
Shimla, July 2
Simla Collective on Friday launched a People’s Manifesto aimed at encouraging sustainable urban development in Shimla through active participation of citizens, government agencies, local bodies and civil society organisations.
The manifesto was unveiled during a multi-stakeholder panel discussion attended by citizens, representatives of social organisations, students and youth. Shimla Mayor chaired the programme.
The panel featured Dr. Vaneet Jishtu, Arijit Sen, Professor Aparna Negi, Dr. Anurita Saxena, Sanjeev Gandhi and Preeti Chauhan, while Tikendra Panwar moderated the discussion and also addressed the gathering as a special speaker.
The programme began with a welcome address by Vipan Gupta on behalf of Simla Collective. Uma Mahajan introduced the organisation, while Deven Khanna outlined its vision. A presentation by Himanshu Sood highlighted the People’s Manifesto, which has been prepared on the basis of citizen surveys, group discussions and public suggestions.
The manifesto proposes measures to make Shimla a more sustainable city by promoting environmentally responsible development and greater cooperation among the government, administration, urban local bodies, social organisations and residents. It also highlights the role of youth, students and senior citizens in shaping the city’s future.
During the panel discussion, speakers shared their views on the challenges confronting Shimla and stressed the need for collective action to preserve the city’s ecological and cultural heritage while ensuring sustainable growth. An interactive question-and-answer session enabled participants from diverse backgrounds to engage with the panelists.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Head of HelpAge India for Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh, spoke on the importance of age-sensitive urban development and creating inclusive public spaces for senior citizens.
In his concluding remarks, Mayor Surendra Chauhan appreciated the initiative and underscored the importance of citizen participation in urban planning and governance.
Students and participants from various educational institutions were honoured with certificates by Ashok Kumar, Coordinator of Simla Collective and Chairperson of the Himalayan Centre for Human Development, along with senior member Ravin Singh, in recognition of their active participation.
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