'Globalisation inspired by Gandhian philosphy'

New Delhi, Jan 29: India's approach to the pursuit of globalisation is inspired by the Gandhian philosophy, Minister for External Affairs, Pranab Mukherjee, said here today.

''Never for a moment have we forgotten what Gandhiji taught us that the human being has to be at the centre of all planning and future development,'' Mr Mukherjee said addressing the inaugural function of the two-day international conference to mark the celebration of the centenary of the Satyagraha Movement here. ''Our development paradigm is linked to this philosophy.''

Stating that in India globalisation now was a fact of life, Mr Mukherjee said, ''We have followed a path of reforms with a human face.'' Mr Mukherjee said the power of Gandhian thought was there to see in India's Panchayat Raj Institutions. Gandhiji visualised five hundred thousand village panchayats which would take power to the people. ''We are presently engaged in giving this vision a practical shape.'' The External Affairs Minister pointed out that India's foreign policy was based on panchsheel, propounded by late Pt Nehru, and it was itself drawn from the Gandhian philosphy of peace and non-violence. The five principles of peaceful co-existence had now become accepted norms of relations between nations and have been recognised throughout the world.

''Even in drawing up our Constititution, concepts such as fundamental rights, directive principles, abolition of untouchability, rights for the underprivileged and the marginalised were all inspired by Gandhian thought and philosphy,'' Mr Mukherjee added.

UNI