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Unlikely Relevance of Hind Swaraj

Last few days Amma and I have been debating the principles of Gandhi's Hind Swaraj as a cure for present day global economic crisis. It seems far fetched, but the core principles that Gandhi advocated -- jobs for all and eco-friendly living -- at the expense of large-scale industrialization -- are more relevant now than ever. I know GM makes terrible cars. I have a Saturn and I would never buy a GM vehicle. But now that I know GM is the employer of so many of my customers and friends, I could be persuaded to buy a GM vehicle. The ability to see the greater good is the message of Hind Swaraj. The Khadi cloth Gandhi suggested was very uncomfortable. It was not any cheaper than the synthetic fibres and would not as durable. But the fact that it provided a voice for India's expression and employment for millions is the very strategy behind Khadi. If only people can be persuaded to make small sacrifices -- repairing instead of buying, conserving instead of spending, and taking to fundamental professions rather than sophisticated professions --I feel that jobs and livelihoods can be sustained. I know it is a radical thought for present day America (and elsewhere). But intellectually, it is an idea worth debating. And you know what, I haven't come across a legit idea for economic recovery and job creation yet. I mean, millions of people have lost their jobs all over the world. How are we going to create millions of jobs? Believe me. "Tax cuts" and "Green Jobs" is not going to do it. Link: Interpreting Hind Swaraj (Comments Disabled for Now. Sorry!) First Written: Sunday, June 7, 2009 Last Modified: 6/10/2009 1:29:43 AM

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