Report on PME and Rehabilitation through Literature & Sports

















 

PME Meeting for United Against Torture Project (29–30 October 2024)

JanMitra Nyas and PVCHR successfully conducted a Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (PME) meeting on 29th and 30th October 2024 under the United Against Torture project, supported by the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT). The meeting was attended by 14 staff members and management board representatives, focusing on strategic planning amid financial constraints due to the denial of FCRA renewal.

Key Discussions and Outcomes:

  1. Activity Planning Until January 2025:

    • Prioritization of legal and meta-legal interventions for torture victims.
    • Expansion of psychosocial support using community resources and local fundraising efforts.
    • Integration of literature and sports as therapeutic tools for rehabilitation.

  2. Addressing Gaps and Challenges:

    • Financial Constraints: The FCRA renewal delay has impacted funding but has strengthened staff commitment and local support.
    • Achievements Despite Challenges: Continued legal and psychosocial support for survivors, along with new initiatives focusing on cultural and sports-based healing.

  3. FCRA Compliance and Follow-up:

    • The annual report is set to be filed in November 2024 as part of compliance requirements.
    • Ongoing engagement with the FCRA department to address regulatory concerns and seek resolution.

Healing Through Literature: The Mirza Ghalib Literature Club

Recognizing literature as a powerful tool for healing and empowerment, JanMitra Nyas and PVCHR launched the Mirza Ghalib Literature Club at the Mirza Ghalib Center, Bhagwanala, Varanasi. The initiative is designed to provide torture survivors and marginalized communities with a space for self-expression, resilience, and intellectual growth.

Impact on Rehabilitation:

  • Therapeutic Writing & Storytelling: Victims of torture can express their trauma, process their experiences, and rebuild confidence through poetry, prose, and discussions.
  • Intellectual Stimulation & Community Integration: Engaging with literature helps rebuild cognitive abilities, improve mental well-being, and restore a sense of belonging.
  • Cross-Cultural Exchange: The club provides survivors with a chance to connect with diverse perspectives, fostering empathy and hope.

Key Highlights:

  • Helma Ritscher, former chairwoman of the Indo-German Society, donated books, including the Bhagavad Gita and The Golden Book of Tagore.
  • Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, Founder of PVCHR, emphasized literature’s role in promoting pluralism, justice, and rehabilitation.
  • Shruti Nagvanshi, Managing Trustee of JanMitra Nyas, highlighted the club’s potential in restoring dignity and resilience among survivors.

Read More:

Inauguration of Mirza Ghalib Literature Club in Varanasi Marks New Chapter in Cultural Exchange and Pluralism

Sports for Rehabilitation: Empowering Torture Survivors

Recognizing the physical and psychological benefits of sports, JanMitra Nyas and PVCHR have introduced sports-based rehabilitation programs for torture survivors.

How Sports Aid Recovery:

  • Physical Rehabilitation: Helps survivors regain strength, coordination, and endurance after prolonged trauma.
  • Mental Health Benefits: Physical activity reduces PTSD symptoms, boosts confidence, and enhances emotional resilience.
  • Building Social Connections: Sports provide a safe space for survivors to rebuild trust, teamwork, and community bonds.

Key Initiatives:

  1. King Snooker Club of Kabeer Karunik:

    • Provides survivors with access to structured recreational activities, improving concentration and strategic thinking.

  2. Local Football and Cricket Programs:

    • Encourages teamwork, leadership, and stress relief for survivors rebuilding their lives.

  3. Yoga and Meditation for Trauma Recovery:

    • Focus on mindfulness, relaxation, and emotional healing.

Honoring Artistic Excellence: JanMitra Award for Prof. Suresh K. Nair

At the Mehta Art Gallery, Prof. Suresh K. Nair was honored with the prestigious JanMitra Award for his remarkable contributions to peace advocacy through art.

Why Prof. Nair?

  • Creator of the ‘Wall of Peace’ project, using art as a medium for social harmony.
  • His work aligns with PVCHR’s mission of fostering empathy, justice, and unity through artistic expression.
  • The award ceremony celebrated his lifelong dedication to cultural activism and peacebuilding.

Prof. Nair’s Words:

"Art has the power to foster peace, evoke emotion, and connect us all."

Cultural Exchange and Community Engagement

Following the Literature Club inauguration, Helma Ritscher explored key cultural hubs in Varanasi, including:

  • King Snooker Club of Kabeer Karunik, home to the celebrated sonnar player.
  • Mehta Art Gallery, where she met notable artists Amit Mehta and Dhirendra Sisodia.

These visits strengthened Indo-German cultural ties and reinforced Varanasi’s global artistic significance.

 Literature & Sports as Tools for Justice and Healing

JanMitra Nyas and PVCHR are redefining rehabilitation by integrating literature, sports, and psychosocial support for torture survivors. These initiatives not only aid in physical and mental recovery but also foster dignity, resilience, and social reintegration.

Despite financial challenges, our commitment to justice, cultural empowerment, and human dignity remains unwavering. Stay connected for more updates on grassroots activism and rehabilitation through culture and sports!

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