On August 9, 2023, the nationwide “Meri Mati Mera Desh” Campaign was launched as a tribute to the valiant individuals who sacrificed their lives for the nation. From August 9 to August 30, 2023, the campaign will encompass events at the village and block levels, organized by local urban bodies, state, and national entities. The initiative aims to honor the nation’s heroes through various programs held across the country.
As part of this campaign, memorial plaques known as “Shilaphalakam” has been installed in village panchayats to commemorate the sacrifices of these individuals. The campaign marks the culmination of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, which began on March 12, 2021, witnessing extensive public participation with over two lakh events conducted throughout the nation.
The campaign was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a broadcast of his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ program. Its primary objective is to pay tribute to the courageous freedom fighters and heroes who selflessly gave their lives for the nation’s cause.
To establish an ‘Amrit Vatika’ in Delhi, an ‘Amrit Kalash Yatra’ will be conducted, involving the collection of soil from every corner of the country in 7500 urns. This ‘Amrit Vatika’ will serve as a symbol of the commitment towards achieving the goal of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.
In order to encourage widespread participation, a dedicated website, https://merimaatimeradesh.gov.in, has been launched. People can upload selfies holding soil or an earthen lamp on this platform. By doing so, they pledge to uphold the ideals of Panch Pran, which include fostering national development, eradicating the mindset of subservience, embracing our rich heritage, promoting unity and solidarity, fulfilling civic duties, and showing respect to the defenders of the nation. Participants will receive a digital certificate of participation upon taking the pledge, available for download from the website.