This article was published in the New Indian Express
The source of the image is Vision India Foundation
MEET THE CITY’S UNSUNG HEROES
By Express News Service
HYDERABAD: Happy citizens make a happy city. We are vibrant country and we all must feel happy that we have achieved so much in such a short time,” said Jayaprakash Narayan, statesman and leader of Lok Satta party at Conclave recently. The event was organised with the aim to spark conversation, connection and networking among public-spirited citizens and local heroes who have done pioneering work in the social space. Vision India Foundation alumnus from Vision India Foundation organised the first edition with support from ISB Hyderabad. The theme was ‘Urban Governance’ and it featured a curated list of storytellers narrating their journeys in instrumenting change. Comprising of messages by Guests of Honor, Keynote speakers and Unsung Heroes, it was an evening of inspiration and learning.
Guests of Honor Dr Jayaprakash Narayan, founder Loksatta, and FDR spoke about the effective enforcement and challenges involved in the urban governance, talked about the perseverance needed to aspire for a better change. Avinash Mohanty, IPS Officer-Crime Branch. Spoke about the pulls and pushes, dichotomy involved in the governance. “Do what you are expected to do as a citizen”
Vishala Reddy, Founder of IdentCITY, shares her journey of bringing about the innovations in Urban Planning and creating a platform for various stakeholders to come together. Gangadhara Tilak Katnam, retired railway employee, Road Doctor. Filled up 1300+ potholes.
He is the witness of the famous quote “our lives begin to end the day; we become silent about things that matter”- spoke about attitudinal change, which should come among the people. As part of the Unsung Heroes, the forum introduced youngsters who are making a difference. Vijay Mallangi, shared his story of influencing change by increasing citizen engagement and active participation. N S Prasad, Climate Change activist talked about leading a happy life being intellectually rich and materialistically poor.