Jainism emphasizes importance of non-violence for human welfare: President Kovind

Jainism emphasises the importance of non-violence for human welfare and compassion, President Ram Nath Kovind said Monday. He was speaking at the 'Vishwashanti Ahimsa Sammelan' (world peace and non-violence conference), organised by the Bhagwan Shri Rishabhdev 108-feet Vishalkai Digambar Jain Murti Nirman Committee at Mangi Tungi in Nashik district. Inaugurating the conference, Kovind said the teachings of Jainism are relevant at a time when violence is taking place in the name of religion.

Stating that the 108 feet height of the statue sets a benchmark for mankind too, he said people should follow the path of non-violence and focus on character.

India has always been a strong proponent of non-violence and peace, the President said. Various initiatives were taken by the Central government like providing homes to homeless, building toilets, Namami Gange, gas connections to poor women and the Ayushman Bharat scheme seek to empower citizens and mitigate harmful effects of man's actions against nature, he said. Bhagwan Mahavir gave special importance to 'Apirigraha (not taking what is more than essential to living), he said.

"Humankind is exploiting nature indiscriminately. Ruthless consumption and accumulation of resources are increasing. Due to this, phenomena like climate change are emerging as challenges. Following the Jain tradition shows us a way out," he said. Teachings of Bhagwan Rishabhdev are very relevant even today, Kovind said, adding they enable cordial relationships among various religions and communities. Maharashtra is a land of social harmony, spirituality and goodwill, he said.

Spiritual and political leaders like Sant Tukaram, Sant Namdeo, Guru Ramdas, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Dr B R Ambedkar gave the message of social harmony and love for the nation, he added. Jainism teaches people to live and let live, Kovind added. At the event, the President presented the first Bhagwan Rishabhdev International Award, comprising Rs 11 lakh and a citation to the Teerthanker Mahaveer University at Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh.

The university chancellor Suresh Jain accepted the award. Union Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre said Maharashtra government should declare drought in various regions of the state where there has been deficient rainfall.

He requested Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to grant Rs 257 crore for the development of Mangi Tungi and adjoining areas. Fadnavis said the state government is close to taking a decision to declare drought in 179 talukas, adding the government would take various supportive measures in light of the prevailing situation, such as waiving off electricity bills. He also assured adequate funding for the development of Mangi Tungi. Fadnavis said the 108-foot high statue of Bhagwan Rishabhdev is the most powerful symbol of the values espoused by the Jain guru.

The philosophy of Ahimsa demands that we protect and honour nature, he said, adding, "We are facing various issues of climate change due to humanity not following these timeless principles". The President also congratulated Fadnavis and Governor Ch. Vidyasagar Rao for completion of four years of the current government in Maharashtra. During his two-day Maharashtra visit, the President will Tuesday attend the convocation ceremony of the Symbiosis International University in Pune.