People’s Manifesto by Vikalp Sangam

People’s Manifesto by Vikalp Sangam

Context: Here, we discuss about issues plaguing the Indian economy (unemployment, ecological issues etc). We also discuss about the manifesto titled ‘People’s Manifesto for a Just, Equitable, and Sustainable India, ‘prepared by Vikalp Sangam.

What is the People’s manifesto?
• The People’s Manifesto by Vikalp Sangam is a comprehensive document that outlines a vision for a just, equitable, and sustainable India.
• It was released by the General Assembly of the Vikalp Sangam, which consists of over 80 people’s movements and civil society groups across India.
• The manifesto is aimed at political parties, government agencies, civil society organisations, and movements at various levels. It lists key strategies and actions that need to be taken for.
• The manifesto has been prepared keeping the upcoming national elections in 2024 in mind, but will also be used as a tool for advocacy and action in other contexts.

What actions need to be taken?
• Securing dignified livelihoods, Protecting human rights, Conserving the environment and wildlife, Democratising all spaces of decision-making, Withdrawing authoritarian laws and measures and Providing meaningful opportunities for education and health.

What are the challenges faced by India?
• Unemployment crises, ecological disaster, erosion of democratic rights and principles, Economic inequality, cultural conflicts.

What are the solutions suggested by the Manifesto?
• Economic Reforms: Prioritising small manufacturing, crafts, and value-added produce from agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and pastoralism. The manifesto calls for economic reforms, curbing the black economy, and wealth redistribution through measures like basic income and pension for all workers.
• Decentralization: The manifesto addresses concerns about increasing authoritarianism and calls fordecentralization. It advocates for meaningful avenues for direct participation in decision-making through forms of direct democracy.
• Social Inclusion: It articulates key commitments for the well-being of all citizens, highlighting the importance of materially, culturally, ethically, and spiritually fulfilling lives and livelihoods. It addresses inter-faith conflicts, prioritizes marginalized groups’ rights, and suggests increased spending on education and health.
• Power to Local Bodies: The manifesto calls for real devolution of financial and legal powers to village and urban assemblies.
• Transparency and Accountability: It demands comprehensive laws ensuring state agency accountability, including public audits.
• Environmental Sustainability: The manifesto urges a national land and water policy that protects important ecological functions. It rejects current trends such as massive industrialisation, infrastructure growth, and the commodification of nature, calling for an alternative approach grounded in humane, nature-friendly, and equitable principles.

Way Forward
• Political parties must highlight these points in their policies, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing India’s challenges and fostering a more balanced and equitable society.