Culture is a very powerful force in the formation of the persons both by setting limits to and models for behavior. No human society can exist without culturally prescribed ways of organizing life and relationships. Without models of how the world operates, shared understanding and the predictability to which their lead, communication and social organizations would be impossible. The individual would fall into despair and the society collapse into anarchy. Society and culture are essential for the person to find even the simplest comfort in life or find meaning of existence. This does not mean, however that one must always accept his cultures as it is.

Understanding other cultures, makes us aware of the press and pull in the lives of others, it makes us more aware of its effects on ourselves. We are too much a part of our own culture to be aware of the values and practices we so take for granted. Only as we step outside our culture by emerging ourselves in another in order to understand the world from this new perspectives can we begin to look at ourselves with a measure of detachment and see the assumption we make. It is in this process that help us deal with the ethnocentrism we all have.

Nevertheless, none of us, can think or operate outside a culture nor live apart from a society. But strangely enough as we become increasingly aware of the ways in which our culture mold us, we are more able to determine our responses to its pressure to use its map to chart a course of action and to play in shaping the future. Autonomy and freedom do not lie in the absence of social law and order, but in the knowledge of how social processes work and how they can be applied to achieve our goals. When we compare the various cultures it will provide us with an awareness of various cultural achievement and their respective consequences. What types of government, family or economic system work and which of them adequately meet our needs? An awareness of cultural alternative makes us conscious of our options.

The northeast region of India is a vital area not only from the strategic point of view but also from the view of richness and ethnic variety. This region has a colorful cultural spectrum. Festivals of various ethnic groups are a very significant facet of the cultural and social profile of the people of Northeast. Most of these festivals barring a few are connected with Agriculture. In Arunachal Pradesh, Mopin is an important festival of the Adi tribes, which is closely associated with harvesting of the paddy crops in the ensuing seasons. Music and dances associated with these festivals are folk based and reflect the pastoral beauty, the lyricism of rural surrounding and the robust and vibrant quality of mind and heart of the people. Dances associated with most of the traditional festivals of the northeast especially in the hill areas are folk in character. The dances evolve in a spontaneous process having their root in agricultural practices, marriages and other social cultural experiences of the people. This region is inhabited by a vast multiplicity of ethnic groups having different cultural and social background and linguistic origin.

This region had certain special problems due to the geographical and historical reasons. Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and quite a large part of Assam, Manipur and Tripura are overwhelming tribal dominated. Due to underdevelopment in infrastructural facilities most the areas in the region still remain in isolation .As a result some pockets in the region have grown that are not at all desirable in the look of this strategic location of the region. Series of violence and students unrest and lack of proper governance and general apathy from the Central Government is what the recent times are all about.

LIFE is committed to the promotions of the culture of peace through understanding of cultures. In the NE one feasibility of promoting the culture of Peace among the various ethnic groups is to Understand the prevailing cultures and impart Peace education. LIFE has also endorsed the GCPE (Global Campaign for Peace Education) which started since May 1999, following the Hague appeal for peace and justice in the 21st Century. In this context LIFE have taken the initiative campaigning for the systematic introduction of Peace Education with the Government and the people of Arunachal Pradesh and also for the Northeast Region.

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AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF LIFE

LEAGUE IN FRIENDSHIP ENDEAVOUR

Aims and Objectives:

The society is committed to promotion of all round socio-economic change and development by strengthening , enquiry, promoting use of empirical data appropriate technology and undertaking action research projects in the filed of health, population, education , social welfare, environment, welfare of women and child, peace and

management of development resources and to provide a forum for advocacy, mutual support and cooperation with special emphasis on the tribal communities.

To this end,

1. Provide a forum for advocacy, mutual support and co-operation among various communities and voluntary agencies with special emphasis on the tribal communities.

2. To engage in educational activities by conducting and facilitating surveys and research, training and instructing individuals , youths families and communities and those involved in health and developmental activities , to hold workshops, seminars, conferences, campaigns and demonstrations, to use all available media-printing, publishing, issuing and exhibiting any journals, periodicals, books, papers, pamphlets, advertisements, reports, lectures and other reading materials and to produce , screen and distribute audio-visuals, video and films.

3. In area of health with special emphasis on Prevention of Drug abuse, HIV/AIDS

(a) To promote activities of prevention and care by facilitation counseling and rehabilitation both home and institutionally.

(b) To promote sports ,vocational and recreation activities.

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Volunteers

List of the volunteers of LIFE:

The following are the name of volunteers.

1. Mr. Kaling Perme
Date of birth: 06.10.79
Qualification: Diploma in Civil Engineering.
Address: Jia village, Roing
Dibang Valley District, Arunachal Pradesh.

2. Mr. Lombom Ratan
Date of birth : 03.09.76
E/qualification : B.A Final year.
Address: Parbuk village, Roing
Dibang Valley District, Arunachal Pradesh.

3. Mr. Anil Pertin
Date of birth : 23.6.77
E/qualification : M.A (Final)
Address : Rono Hills, Arunachal University
Doimukh, Arunachal Pradesh.

4. Mr. Minom Pertin
      11.10.83
      Class 12.
      Bolung village, Dibang Valley
      Arunachal Pradesh.

5. Mr. Onong Yomso
      02.08.77
      M.A. (Pol. Science)
      Adi Pasi village (Sibuk)
      P.O. Maryang, Upper Siang District,
      Arunachal Pradesh.

6. Miss. Peng Pertin
      05.06.77
      B.A
      Jia village,
      Roing, Dibang Valley,
      Arunachal Pradesh.

7.   Miss. Omem Taggu
      07.01. 1978
      M.A (Geography)
      C/O. T. Taggu, Ex. M.L.A,
      Gumin Nagar, Along
      West Siang district,
      Arunachal Pradesh.

MESSENGER OF PEACE UNESCO 2000

Press Release

18^th July 2000

The UNESCO , Paris on the 6/21/2000 has named League in Friendship Endeavour (LIFE) as the Messenger of Manifesto 2000 in recognition to contribution to the Global Movement for a culture of Peace and Non-violence.

League in Friendship Endeavour, LIFE is registered in Itanager and is also involved in the Global Campaign for Peace Education.

All those interested in the movement may write to LIFE office or contact through the following address:

League in Frienship Endeavour LIFE

Pirbo-Lipikm, Bank Tinal, Itanagar-791111

Phone No- 0360-212272

Email: [email protected]

Issued By:

Mibom Pertion

Publicity Secretary

TRIBAL PEOPLES AND PEACE:

Report of the Seminar on “Tribal Peoples and Peace” on 29^th March 2000,

Organised by HAP’University of Delhi & LIFE.

-Khachungla Chalhang M.Phil (DU)

[email protected] The convenor Leban Serto of the meeting , introduced the members present and the reason why the meeting was taking place. Giving emphasis on the need for peace education and he also requested the ICITP and others present to endorse Peace Education on the GBM to be held on 1^st April 2000.

Main Issues- based on the topic the discussion revolved around the concept of peace and the endorsement of peace education in school/institution/NGO’s, etc. and on tribal issues. The main speaker, Mrs. Joytsna Chaterjee emphasized on peace in relation to the existing social setup. The Indian society is hierarchical and the systems of social stratification and hindering caste, class and gender hierarchies get incorporated in the mindset of the people and ultimately there is imbalance. Kargil war, Dalit killings, sexual violence, ethnic conflict, tribes pitied against tribes in the northeast has happened and is still happening. At such a backdrop, the concept of peace and the endorsement of peace education have become the watchword. And for this we need to find out the root causes as to why non-peace situation arises.

Mrs.Joytsna Chaterjee stresses on four main concerns. Firstly, the major cause of it is intolerance. There is power politics, One wants to control the other, how do we settle the power politics situation? Who succeeds over whom? Can we break this and how? Secondly the whole question of sharing of resources equally. Thirdly, policies ,programs, laws are they also made to promote power politics? Not everything is properly shared. Fourth Who makes this policies? What is the common peoples role. What role of advocacy have we played? These 4 point are the important things we youth need to focus on,

Moreover we need to create awareness among the general masses and bring about a change in the mindset and attitude of the people .Though we are divided on the basis of caste, tribe and creed we need to find a commonality and that should be building peace. For this peace-building we need to build bridges that transcends prejudices and inhibition. And while inculcating the curriculum on peace education we should start with the human rights and constitution rights and come up with a clear analysis of the whole agenda free of distrusts and misconception. And only after resources are equally shared and the distribution of power balance can there be dialogue because there can be dialogue only among equals .There can be no dialogue between the rich and the poor, top and bottom and have and have not, we still require affirmative action to break the stronghold of the upper class and the power holders.

Binoy, a tribal from Assam opines, casteism ,values systems are manmade and peace is possible when there is equal distribution of power. The non-tribals do not want to eat in the house of the tribals, he is of opinion that this attitude is something which divide the tribes from the non-tribals.

Tribal peoples & peace :

Mr. Singsit the hon’ble working president of ICITP, mainly emphasised on the tribal issues and problems facing the tribals today .He further went on putting before us the following challenging questions ;

1. Are tribals by nature violent people?

2. Are tribals getting the right kinds of education to make
them peaceful people?

3. Are tribal traditions and cultures essentially hostile and
unaccommodating?

4. Are Tribal environment and dwelling places really battle
grounds?

5. If tribals live in unspoiled and virgin forest and very close
    to nature, then how is it they come to be influenced and
    controlled by external forces which became agent for
    change for them for the worse? Can we identify these
    external forces?

6. What can be substitutes for these undesirable forces and
how can they be ushered into tribal environment?

7. Do tribals really desire peace and harmony?

8. Do the tribal realized that Peace is nothing but absence
of violence? Do they want to remain in isolation?

9. Can tribals bring about peace without any reconciliation?

10. Can there be any reconciliation without dialogue?

11. This era does not reward those who want to redraw the
maps or border through violence and bloodshed

Mr Singsit requested the audience present to reflect upon the above-mentioned questions, which will give each one a thought to be aware of the tribals in the present day situation. He also appeal to the tribals to invest for Peace. Very often tribals forget that we live in dreams , we have to live in the present and plan for the future and create favourable conditions for peace.

Peace is universal concern. Despite the fact, it cannot be defined in one single way. Peace assumes varied meaning in varied contents. It assumes different lines and color as the backdrop against which it is being talked.

Mona Bhan , convenor of the HAP’ University of Delhi, gave her view that ,mere peace is alluded in relation to women or any other muted group, likewise also the tribal groups . It exists in direct equation with another intricate concept-development. Muted groups are those suppressed groups of the society, which haven’t been able to express their opinion through their worldviews or perception. They have been understood ( in case of women through the male model of the society and in case of tribals through the dominant community existing along with them) through the existing dominant world view. Real peace would be achieved when the varied world views are identified , understood and analysed.

Maria , Secretary of ICITP emphasised, that we need to first make peace with God our Maker. Very often we talk of global peace but neglect peace at the bottom level. Most of the time a person who advocates peace is looked upon with suspicion. We can bring peace by bridging the gap of inequality and here the youth can play very significant roles as peacemaker, as peace is a small barrier for people or country. We need peace and we should stand firm and resolved to bring peace by building bridges and unity among ourselves by giving up this life of violence, conflict and war.

Mrs Joytsna Chaterjee further highlighted by saying that, India is a country with diverse culture tradition with the inherent evils of casteism. There is imbalance because of the hierarchical setup. The upper class are taught that they are the superior class and that everything belongs to them and they want don’t want the status quo changed .The question that faces us now is not stopping war but promoting peace and here the endorsement of peace is essential Why hasn’t the demand for 33% women ‘s reservation materialised? Because the power holders want to maintain their status quo. What do we as youngsters/academicians /civil society advocate and where do we begin? Like charity begins at home, peace has to begin from home . After one has peace with oneself one has to look at the broader perspective. Home is not in isolation. It is within the community and the community is within the country.

Role of the state and civil society :

Mrs Joytsna Chaterjee concluded that there are four major concerns, Firstly,Power politics. Secondly there unequal distribution of wealth/resources. Thirdly there are those who control the power are the policy programmers/framers. Fourthly there are those who go out for advocacy often go out without clear analysis. Peace is for all. Unless we have peace within ourselves we cannot have global peace. Why is India looked down upon. We have been brought up with certain values with let us discriminate each other. Indian Society is like a triangle that divides into upper class middle class and the lowest class. The SC/ST are outside the caste structure. The concept of Panchama. Hierarchical society has hierarchical position. There is bound to have imbalance. Can we break this? A women in her own class is treated inferior suppressed though she thinks she is more superior than the lower structured woman. Each of power is following the structure and naturally there is inequality even though the higher class are mere 10%.They have 75 % of the power. Power is one of the determinants for peace and war, peace and conflict. Unless power is dispersed, equality is impossible . The importance and the reason of education is to acquire legal knowledge get a good job / placements acquire land and property participate in politics and to get better health care.

Similarly among the lower class there is division. If we want to break this stronghold of power which promotes status quo/position? How do we advocate? When do we start? We have strife here then. Tell the kids about the facts of the country hierarchical structure power structure. Gender is also divided on caste category. What is needed is general awareness of what is happening in and outside the family, analyze and plan for advocacy which is the root to start. While inculcating the curriculum on peace education How to begin? It is always good to start with the constitution rights, Human rights and then come up with various specific analysis is essential .It is also important to highlight Gender understanding .understanding of the girl child/ poverty, unbalance etc.All these have to be thought of.

Impact of poverty and violence :

Mrs Joytsna Chaterjee also spoke on the issue of Globalization where women becomes the poorest in the family ,If she has nothing .It is why when we treated the two, we can work out the modalities and here peace education is possible. Religious/traditional at the same time ,constitutional laws. Try to bring the traditional practices that are good and try to incorporate the good in the constitution and see if we can bring about a change here. Two groups on glorification of the power of women/truth /encourage widow murder. After the constitution is followed then Sati is murder. Nagas have grassroots democracy and this must be encouraged They have no hierarchy system like the Hindu society. Similarly most of the tribal communities do not have any hierarchical system. The reason for poverty and violence are Firstly, there is power politics where one (wants) controls the other and because of this unequal partners there is imbalance, secondly, there is unequal distribution of sources which leads to unequal distribution of power and thirdly, the policy makers and policy framers are the power holders, who frames law according to their whims and fancies.

The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by Tony Pertin, Chairman LIFE, League in Friendship Endeavour ,He emphasized that we should be action oriented to achieve our goal. He also narrated that the concept of peace has more meaning in the northeast at present as the region is experiencing large scale violence of various kinds never experienced before and we need to commit ourselves to bring about peace in the North-east India. The tribals all over the country have seen enough injustice and social inequalities. Today they seek peace knowing that the time has come to assert their rights and affirm their place within the country, and therefore , they must work for peace.

****

Concept of Peace Education

-Tony Pertin

Everyday we are witnessing acts of violence on the television screen, on the streets, often in our homes and schools. All we hear in the news are stories about violence, war, murder, group clashes, genocide, kidnapping, abductions, rapes, suicides, dowry deaths, HIV/AIDS infection, drug abuse and so on. History lesson teaches us about a series of wars. Even toys and games often designed to stimulate enjoyment from “ imaginary’ violent activities. We have had enough- we want to lear about Peace! We want to know Human Rights, our rights!

Arunachal Pradesh today-

The problems of the neighboring states are slowly influencing Arunchal Pradesh- the island of Peace. The sense of discontentment and inter tribe rivalry have increased. This can be prevented. What is needed now in Arunachal Pradesh is the right kind of education. The people have always been peaceful and have been democratic at large. With the change taking place all over the world and India in particular, here is an urgent need to impart a new kind of education system where each will be empowered and also existence and value of our cultural diversities and respect for one another. This being the main objective of peace education , our organization-LIFE had taken up the campaign for it. However it will only be successful when the leaders, educators and citizens at large also contribute. This will be the landmark and also determine the future course that the people of Arunachal can take. Peace is not only important in terms of war and violent people but it is equally important to those who are “ Peaceful” so as to know the value of being in peace.

With more interactions , seminar and discussions , a methodology that is most appropriate for the situation of Arunachal Pradesh could be evolved . In this respect, the Department of Education and the University authority should conduct periodical training and seminars and ensure the maximum participation of NGO’s including the representatives from different communities. We must teach our youth and communities to practice peace. The role of Kebang which forms an integral part of the tribal society could be more sanctifies .We must emphasis on the benefits of Peace. The concept of Peace education has the most relevance in the present day context of Arunacahl Pradesh.

Without Peace, there cannot be any meaningful development.Therefore, with your zeal and vision to uplift the downtrodden people of Arunachal Pradesh we see the future of Arunachal Pradesh bright with an atmosphere of Peace in the state.

What exactly is Peace education?

There is no one definition of peace and no single” package” called peace education that can be “delivered”. In our view peace education covers subject matter and educational approaches used in a variety of fields such as human rights, development and environment education approaches used in a variety of fields such as human rights, development and environment education, security and disarmament conflict resolution/transformation critical media awareness, gender studies, world citizenship and international relationships –as well as elements from more traditional subject areas. Many believe that most satisfactory approach is that which involves the whole school or institution and the wi der community also.

Role of community groups and organizers.

By this we mean groups and individuals based mainly in local areas and districts of different countries working on diverse range of issues, such as peace, disarmament(including gun control) human rights, conflict prevention and mediation , women’s rights, sustainable development , minority rights and anti-racism. it can also include people working in media of all types, political parties, trade unions, Religious bodies etc. Everyone has an interest in peace.

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Peace Education in Arunachal Pradesh:

Press release:18^th July 2000, Itanagar

A discussion on Peace education –Perspective in Arunachal Pradesh was jointly organized by the Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society (APWWS) and League in Frienship Endeavour(LIFE) in Hotel Arun Subansari, at Itanagar on 17^th July , 2000.Representative representing the various districts, civil Societies , Women organizations and Student bodies had participated in the discussion which was also attended by Dri Takam Sanjoy, Minister , IPR Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh. The meeting had decided to pursue the need for Peace education in Arunachal Pradesh and formed a co-ordinating Committee called PEACE, which stands for People’s Endeavour of Arunachal Pradesh for aCulture of Peace through Education” This will be headed by Ms. Jarjume Ete, as Convenor and Tony Pertin as the co-convenor with representatives from various NGO’s as its members. The meeting also decided to organize a conference in Itanagar which will include experts from National and International Organisations.

The co-ordinating committee will involve more organizations ans also teachers and the Government to look into the various issues of imparting Peace Educaiton in other words , inculcating a sense of moral value, tolerance, understanding, non-violence and a more culturally specific
curriculum.

It may also be noted that the sensitivity of the Government towards the need for the Peace Education had led to the initial discussion. However the Presence of Sanjay Takam , recent recipient of the prestigious National Bharat Gaurav Award for Youth Leadership as a representative of the Government led to a deliberation where the entire participants were involved. Peace education as suggested by most of the participants could address the issue of economic development and literacy campaign among women. The need of introducing Information Technology for the state to enhance larger participant in the National issues was also pointed out. cultural specific should be one of the basis of Peace Education in Arunachal Pradesh, this is important as the state is basically a tribal state. The Committee will meet again on the 9^th August, 2000

- Tony Pertin

Co-convenor , P.E.A.C.E. And Chairman LIFE.

Memorandum submitted to the constitutional Review committee:

By the Chairman LIFE:

From: Tony+Pertin<[email protected]>

To: [email protected]

CC:[email protected],[email protected], [email protected]

Subject: Suggest from LIFE.

Date: Sat, 17 Jun 2000 04: 32:29-0700(PDT)

Ref no. Life-01/10

Date:17^th June ‘2000

To:

The Chairman,

Constitution Review Committee,

New Delhi,

India.

Subject: ST status on all India basis.

Hon’ble Chairman,

In response to the advertisement for putting forward the suggestion on the working of the working of the constitution of India, I on behalf of the League in Frienship Endeavour(LIFE), an NGO based in Arunachal Pradesh have the honour to bring our observation for your kind consideraton.

The word “ Tribal” has been made a misnomer.There are some states which recognize a tribal group as Scheduled Tribe of that state but the same group is not recognized as Scheduled Tribe in another state. Such practices amounts to denial of the Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Constitutional of India.

One such glaring example had been the Bhil Tribes settled in Delhi. This tribes, originally from the state of Rajasthan but they had migrated and settled in Delhi prior to Independence. They have been clubbed with the Scheduled caste list. If the Bhil can be given recognition as S/C in Delhi why they are not recognized as S/T in Delhi. The Ministry of Home Affairs Govt. of India Circular no . 35/1/72-RU(SCTV) dated May 2^nd 1975 and No. BC/12025/2/76-CST-1 dated march 22^nd 1977 had been wrongly interpreted in this case.

Further , as Delhi is the National Capital city of India and Govt. of India is determined to bring about National Integration and bringing the youths of North East to the National Mainstream, many boys and girls are coming to Delhi but the Delhi Govt. vide no F19(7)/96-S-111 dated 2^nd January, 1998 has done away with the reservation for S/T relying on the provision of Article 342 of the constitution , the order of Ministry of Home Affairs dated 2^nd May 1975 and 22^nd March 1977 along with the decision of the Supreme Court and the Calcutta High Court and thereby denying our youths of the opportunities provided by Delhi.

The opportune moments had come to undo the injustice that had been caused to the tribals.

Hence, It is our appeal to all condern:-

1. To make the reservation for S/T in Delhi Constitutional.

2. To recognize tribes on all India basis.

Thanking you,

Yours sincerely,

(Tony Pertin)

From Camp:

HQ: Room No 43

Arunachal Bhavan,

Kautilya Marg,

New Delhi-110021

Phone 3013195

A reply from the Constitutional Review Committee

Letter of reply ref no : Ref no. Life-01/10, communicated to the Chairman by the Constitutional Review Committee is given below:

Date:Mon, 24 Jul 2000 22:32:39 PDT

From:”National Commission to review the working of the Constitution” <[email protected]>

To:[email protected]

Cc:[email protected]

Subject:Yoursuggestions To Mr. Tony Pertin, Chairman, League in Friendship Endeavour. Pirbo-Lipik, BankTinali,Itanagar-791111, ArunachalPradesh.

Sir,

This is to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated 17th June, 2000. The suggestions contained in your letter would be considered by the Commission at the appropriate time.

Yours faithfully,

Dr. Raghbir Singh,
Secretary,
National Commission to Review
the Working of the Constitution,
Vigyan Bhavan Annexe,
Maulana Azad Road, New Delhi-11

Towards A Human Security Paradigm

-Prof Betty Reardon

(Mother of Peace Education)

Human security , of individuals and of groups in its essence is that expectations and conditions of well being.Everything that is done in the name of security is ostensible to fulfill those expectations and conditions.The three major problems with the present international security systems are : it is dominantly masculine rather than human in conception; it is designed to achieved the security of state rather than that of persons or human groups; and what is readily evident , it addresses only one of four fundamental sources of human well being.

Human security derives primarily from the expectation that four fundamental conditions of security will be met; that the environment in which we live can sustain human life; that our basic physical survival needs for food, clothing and shelter will be met; that our fundamental human dignity and personal and cultural identities will be respected ; and that we will be protected from avoidable harm. If a society can meet these conditions for most of its population, it moves toward being a just society.By these standards there are not truly secure societies in the world and probably non are fully committed to achieving authentic human security.

This condition of world wide insecurity exists because the present state centered security paradigm places a priority on protection against harm from others over all other sources of human well being.The militarized international security system is maintained at the expense of the abuse of the natural environment, limits on meeting the economic and social needs of the world’s poor , disregard and violation of fundamental, universal human rights, and inadequate protection against the harms of ill health, poor infrastructures and accident had disaster provision.Inordinate resources, research, human talent and human effort are squandered on the armed defense of “ national security’ at the expense of human security.The system is inadequate, indeed dangerous because it is imbalanced. it is derived by exclusively masculine, outer directed standards applied by th predominantly male” national security’ establishments who have not been socialized to focus on human needs.

The remedies for this imbalance which could move the international system closer to a sustainable system of human security lie in the demilitarization of security in favor of a nonviolent conflict resolution and the building of mutually beneficial relationships among all nations, committing human talent and global resources to fulfilling all security expectations in a world of cultural diversity, gender equality and human responsibility. These remedies can only be achieved when human needs are the primary concern of security establishments. this concerns cannot be the focus of security policy making without the equal participation of women, and the full representation of the world’s diverse peoples.Human security depends on gender equality and democracy in all spheres of social organization.

Donation for the Flood Victims:

14^th July 2000 at Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh.

LIFE donated two cartoon box of clothes for the Arunachal Flood relief. The President of APWWS (Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society) Ms. Jarjume Ete, introduced the President Tony Pertin and General Secretary Dr. Leban Serto to the house gathering for the Charity Show for flood victims on 14th July, 2000 organised by the APWWS.

HAGUE APPEAL FOR PEACE GLOBAL

CAMPAIGN FOR PEACE EDUCATION

Campaign Statement

A culture of peace will be achieved when citizens of the world understand global problems; have the skills to resolves conflict constructively; know and live by international standards of human rights, gender and racial equality; appreciate cultural diversity; and respect the integrity of the Earth. Such learning cannot be achieved without intentional, sustained and systematic education for peace.

The urgency and necessity of such education was acknowledge by the member states of UNESCO in 1974 and reaffirmed in the Integrated Framework of Action on Education for Peace, Human Rights and democracy in 1995.Yet, few educational institutions have undertaken such action. It is time to call upon ministries of education, educational institutions and policy makers to fulfill the commitments.

A campaign to facilitate the introduction of peace and human rights education into all educational institutions was called for by the Hague Appeal for Peace civil Society Conference in May 1999. An initiative of individual educators and education NGOs committed to peace, it is conducted through a global network of education associations and regional, national and local task forces of citizens and educators who will lobby and inform ministries of education and teacher education institutions about the UNESCO Framework and the multiplicities of methods and materials that now exist to practice peace education in all learning environments. The goal of the campaign is to assure that all educational systems throughout the world will educate for a culture of peace.

Visit websites: www.haguepeace.org

Letter to the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh

Ref: PE-01-04

Dated 26^th April’2000

To:

The Chief Minister,

Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh

Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh

Subject : Introduction of Peace education as one curriculum in the education system.

Respected Sir,

I am writing to you on behalf of our organization-LIFE to request you to initiate the introduction of Peace education into education system of the state of Arunachal Pradesh.

Everyday we are witnessing acts of violence on the television screen, on the televisonscreen, on the streets, often in our homes and schools.all we hear in the news are stories about violence, war, murder, group clashes, genocide, Kidnapping, abduction , rapes, suicide dowry deaths HIV/AIDS infection , drug abuse and son on.History lesson teaches us about a series of wars Even toys and games ae often designed to stmulate enjoyment from “imaginary” violent activities.

We have had enough- we want to lear about Peace! We want to know how people in other cultures live, so we can understand each other better.We want to lear about Human Rights , our rights!

Arunachal Pradesh today-

The problems of the neighbouring states are slowly influencing Arunachal Pradesh- the Island of Peace.The sense of discontentment and inter tribal rivalry have increased.This can be prevented.What is need now in Arunachal Pradesh is right kind of education. The people have always been peaceful and have been democratic at large.With the change taking place all over the world and India in particular there is an urgent need to impart a new kind of education system where each will be empowered and also contribute for the community and the nation.There is a need for an education system, which promote co-existence and value of our cultural diversiteies and respect for one another.This being the main objective of peace education, our organization –LIFE had taken up the campaign for it. However it will only be successful when the Leaders, Educators and citizens at large also contribute. The will be the landmark and also determine the future course that the people of Arunachal can take. Peace is not only important in terms of war and violenct people but it is equally important to those who are “Peaceful” so as to know the value of being peace.

UNESCO’s Director- General, Federico Mayor says, “ Peace itself is being redefined. Instead of the absence of war, it is increasingly seen as a dynamic, participative, long-term process based on universal values and everyday practice at all levels –the family, the school the community, as well as the nation”

A Culture of Peace means to embracing communication, democratic decision making and non-violent conflict resolution” It is the basis of freedom security and equitable relationships and it encourages individual and group action for societal and structural change,” they state “ A Culture of Non-violence embraces the non-violent understanding present in all spiritual practices”.

The year 2000 is the International Year for A culture of Peace, and marks the beginning of the United Nations decade for a culture of peace and non-violence for the children of the World.We would like our School and University and country to play in a part in building of a culture of Peace, which is crucial for the survival of future generations. Peace studies in all educational institution would of course be a wonderful contribution to progress and one that we would benefit from enormously.

There is an organization, International Peace Bureau ( IPB) along with the Hague Appeal for Peace that has a lot of experience in Peace education. We can contact them to get more information and ideas. Their address is enclosed herewith this letter. LIFE is also campaigning towards fulfilling this aim to achieve peace education for all. We very much hope that you shall appreciate the great need for peace education at a time when everyone in somehow affected by the culture of violence our society has created, and that you will enable our educational system especially at the school level to play a leading role in developing a culture of peace.

We look forward to your reply positively.

Thank you for your time and cooperation.

Yours sincerely,

Tony Pertin,

Chairman , LIFE

Contact Address for Peace Education :

International Peace Bureau

GI rue de Zurich

Ch-1201 Geneva

Switzerland,

Tel:41-22-731-6429

Fax: 41-22-738-9419

Remail: [email protected]

Website:http://www.ipb.org

Letter communicated to the Organizers of IIPE, 2000 Pune, by the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh.

This letter was read out to the August gathering on the 27^th July,2000(Sunday)

at the YMCA by Ms. Armene Modi.

Mukut Mithi

Chief Minister

Arunachal Pradesh

ITANAGAR-791111

DO No. CM/AP/15/2K

18^th July 2000

Dear Ms. Reardon,

I am glad to learn that the International Institute of Peace Education (IIPE) is being held at the Mahindra United World college of India in Village Khubavali, Pune from July 22^nd-29^th, 2000.

The wide topic of themes that you have addressed is a need for every society in our country. The themes
‘Education for a culture of Peace : A human security perspective’, will bring a better understanding to the current day problems in our country and in the world at large. The people of Arunachal Pradesh are passing through a transition period where the importance of “Peace” is being felt more. My Government had initiated to find our ways and methodologies to include the Peace education in our school curriculum.

I wish Asta No Kai and the Peace Education Programme of Teachers College, Columbia University the best and a success. Though I wish to attend because of the State Assembly which will be held around that time. I shall not be able to attend your programme. I hope to associate myself in your movement in future. The League in Friendship Endeavor ( LIFE) will be representing the State. I wish a better co-operation with the State of Arunachal Pradesh will emerge from their participation.

I wish the organizers and the participants a grand success.

Yours,

Mukut Mithi

Ms.Areme Modi

IIPE Conference

Mahindra United \Wrold College of India, Pune, India

Copy to : Ms. Betty Reardon

Columbia University,

New York, NY 10027

Mukut Mithi

International Institute of Peace Education, 2000 Pune, India

Members of LIFE and HAP’DU with Prof. Betty Reardon during IIPE 2000 Pune.

Future Plan

µ Setting up of a Computer Institute for Rural Peoples

µ Setting up of a Night schools in rural areas

µ Setting up of a Mobile Medical Dispensary

µ Providing consultancy services to other NGOS and also to Government and International Agencies.

Contribution and donations maybe send to the Chairman in the Office address

Spirituality Society and Peace

24th September 2000, delhi university

Spirituality Society and Peace, a talk conducted by HAP’DU on the 24th September, 2000

Dr. Leban Serto of LIFE also participated in the talk held at Gandhi Bhavan, Delhi University

DISCUSSION ON peace education in Manipur

in the chair, prof. ksh. bimola devi. Jointly orgd. by unmm, musu & life

Peace Education discussion in Manipur University initiated by LIFE member and other NGOs.

1st September, 2000, Manipur University:

This give rise to the formation of Centre for Peace Education Manipur (CFPEM)

*****

MEMORANDUM TO HRD FOR INTRODUCTION OF PEACE EDUCATION

Ref No : PE-011/03 Dated 19/03/001

To,

The Secretary,

Shri M.M. Kaw,

HRD. Govt. of India, Delhi.

email:[email protected]

Subject : Introduction of Peace education as one curriculum in the education system.

Respected Sir,

I am writing to you on behalf of our Organization, LIFE: League in friendship endeavor; to request you to initiate the introduction of Peace Education into the education system of our country. Everyday we are witnessing acts of violence on the television screen, on the streets often in our homes and schools, college and universities. Especially here in India the issue in Kashmir and the Northeast seems to be in no way getting any better with regards to violence and senseless killings with lost of lives.

All we hear in the news are the stories about violence, war, murder, group clashes, genocide, kidnapping, abduction, rapes, suicides m dowry deaths, HIV/AIDS, earthquake, drug abuse, corruption and so on. History lesson teaches us about a series of wars. Even toys and games are often designed to stimulate enjoyment form ‘imaginary’ violent activities. We have had enough, we want to learn about Peace! We want to know how people in other cultures live, so we can understand each other better. We want to learn about Human rights, our rights. With the change taking place all over the World and India in particular, here is an urgent need to impart a new kind of education system where each will be empowered to and also contribute for the community and the nation.

There is a need for an education system, which promote co-existence and the value of our cultural diversities and respect for one another. This being the main objectives of peace education, Our organization LIFE had taken up to campaign for it. However it will only be successful when the leaders, educators and citizens at large also contribute. This will be the landmark and also determining the future course the people of India can take. Peace is not only important in terms of war and violent people but it is equally important to those who are peaceful so as to know the value of being in peace.

Reiterating the words of UNESCO’s Director -General Federico Mayor, “Peace itself is being redefined”, Instead of the absence of war, it is increasingly seen as a dynamic participative long-term process, based on universal values and everyday practice at all levels - the family the school, college, university, community as well as the nation.”A culture of Peace means to embrace, communication, democratic decision making and non-violent conflict resolution. It is the basis of freedom, security and equitable relationships and it encourages individual and group action for societal and structural change.

Last year ,2000 was celebrated as the International year for A culture of Peace and also it marks the beginning of the United Nations decade for a culture of Peace and non-violence for the children of the world. We would definitely like our Schools and Universities and the country as a whole to play an important part in building a culture of peace , which is crucial for the survival of future generation. Peace education in all educational institution would of course be a wonderful contribution to progress as one that we would benefit from enormously.

There is an organization, International Peace Bureau ( www.ipb.org) based at Geneva) and the Hague Appeal for Peace and Justice at New York. www. haguepeace.org who have initiated the Worldwide campaign for Peace Education. They can always be contacted for more information and ideas.

Our organization LIFE from Arunachal Pradesh is also campaigning towards fulfilling this aim to achieve Peace education for all. We very much hope that you shall appreciate the great need for Peace education at a time when everybody is somehow affected by the culture of violence in our country, and that you will enable our educational system especially at the schools , colleges and universities to play a leading role in developing a culture of peace. It is hereby our appeal to you to make Peace education as one curriculum in our schools and Universities of India.

We look forward to your reply positively,

Thanking you,

Yours sincerely,

(Leban Serto)

Secretary, LIFE

League in Friendship Endeavor.

Copy to :

1. Hon’ble Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi

Minister for Human Resource Development

email: [email protected]

2. Hon’ble Shri Syed Shahnawaz Hussain,

Minister of State for Human Development

email: [email protected]

3. Shri .Prof. Ashok Chandra

Special Secretary

email: [email protected]

4. Shri Tony Pertin, Chairman

LIFE,League in Friendship Endeavour

email: [email protected]

******

For further information please address to

General Secretary.

Chairman : Tony Pertin, LL.B.

General Secretary : Leban Serto, Ph. D.

H/Q Office Address :

League In Friendship Endeavour(LIFE)

PIRBO - LIPIK, BANK TINALI,

ITANAGAR - 791111,

ARUNACHAL PRADESH (INDIA)

Phone : 0360 - 212272

Fax : 0360 - 214445.

Email : [email protected]

“No Peace Without Peace Education”

Printed at HopCom Printers

Dewlahland, Imphal - 795001

Manipur

LEAGUE IN FRIENDSHIP ENDEAVOUR

MESSENGER OF PEACE UNESCO 2000

Press Release

Role of the state and civil society :

Impact of poverty and violence :

­Concept of Peace Education

-Tony Pertin

Arunachal Pradesh today-

What exactly is Peace education?

Towards A Human Security Paradigm

Letter to the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh

Contribution and donations maybe send to the Chairman in the Office address

Concept of Peace Education