Sumedha Chithade - Full Interview | Swayam Talks

Summary

Mr. Yogesh and Mrs. Sumedha Chithade are honored with the 'Swayam Gaurav Award' for their initiative to install an Oxygen Generation Plant in Siachen, a project fueled by public donations and their personal sacrifices. Sumedha's commitment to the cause, inspired by Swatantryaveer Vinayak Damodar Sawarkar, reflects her belief in patriotism and service beyond material wealth. The couple's endeavor, supported by society, exemplifies the power of collective action for the welfare of soldiers, emphasizing the importance of selfless contribution to the nation.

Takeaways

• 🏆 Mr. Yogesh and Mrs. Sumedha Chithade were awarded the 'SWAYAM GAURAV AWARD' for their initiative to install an Oxygen Generation plant at Siachen, which was accomplished through their efforts and public participation.
• 💎 Mrs. Sumedha Chithade sold her jewelry to fund the oxygen plant and expressed her willingness to give everything she had for the cause, demonstrating immense dedication to the welfare of soldiers.
• 🌟 The couple's motivation stems from a deep sense of patriotism and the teachings of Swatantryaveer Vinayak Damodar Sawarkar, emphasizing the importance of living life to the fullest and contributing to the nation.
• 📚 Mrs. Chithade, with 28 years of teaching experience, noticed the absence of patriotism in education and decided to take proactive steps to address issues rather than criticize others.
• 🙏 The Chithades believe in not seeking credit for their work, with Mrs. Chithade stating that work should speak for itself and that the nation should be the priority over individual recognition.
• 💪 Inspired by the selflessness of soldiers who work tirelessly without complaint, the Chithades aim to emulate this commitment in their own efforts to support the nation's military personnel.
• 🏔 The oxygen plant was identified as a critical need after conversations with Hon. Captain Bana Singh Ji, who highlighted the harsh conditions and oxygen scarcity at the Siachen military post.
• 💼 The project faced significant financial challenges, with an initial cost of Rs. 2.50 crore, but the Chithades managed to raise funds through public donations, emphasizing transparency and trust in the process.
• 🤝 The success of the project was attributed to divine wisdom, societal support, and the opportunity provided by the army, with an ongoing call for further societal support for similar initiatives.
• 👶 Mrs. Chithade shared stories of children giving their savings for the cause, highlighting the importance of instilling the values of selfless giving in the younger generation.
• 🌐 For those interested in supporting the Chithades' mission, detailed information and contact numbers are available on their website, sirf.org.in, encouraging direct public involvement.

Q & A

Who are Mr. Yogesh and Mrs. Sumedha Chithade and what award did they receive?

Mr. Yogesh and Mrs. Sumedha Chithade are individuals who installed an Oxygen Generation Plant at Siachen with public participation. They were felicitated with the 'SWAYAM GAURAV AWARD' for their significant contribution.

Why did Mrs. Sumedha Chithade sell her jewelry?

Mrs. Sumedha Chithade sold her jewelry to fund the construction of an Oxygen plant, demonstrating her commitment to supporting the soldiers at Siachen.

What is Mrs. Chithade's view on what constitutes wealth and beauty in society?

Mrs. Chithade believes that wealth and beauty in society are not defined by material prosperity, but by accomplishments beyond that and the reflection of good thoughts in actions.

What is the significance of Siachen in the context of the oxygen plant installed by Mr. Yogesh and Mrs. Chithade?

Siachen is the highest battlefield in the world with extreme climatic conditions, including low oxygen levels. The oxygen plant is significant as it helps soldiers stationed there to breathe more easily.

How did Mrs. Chithade's interaction with Hon. Captain Bana Singh influence her decision to install the oxygen plant?

Mrs. Chithade was deeply affected by Hon. Captain Bana Singh's description of the harsh conditions at Siachen, particularly the lack of oxygen. His words inspired her to take action and install the oxygen plant to help the soldiers breathe.

What was the total cost of the Oxygen Generation Plant project?

The total cost of the Oxygen Generation Plant project was Rs. 2.50 crore.

How did Mr. Yogesh and Mrs. Chithade manage to raise the funds for the project?

They reached out to the general public for donations, emphasizing the importance of the project and ensuring that the funds would reach the intended recipients, thus building trust and support.

Why is Mrs. Chithade's name not displayed on the signboard of the Siachen Oxygen Plant?

Mrs. Chithade believes that the work should speak for itself and that no individual is bigger than the nation. She does not seek personal credit for the project.

What is Mrs. Chithade's perspective on the role of education in fostering patriotism and service to the nation?

Mrs. Chithade feels that patriotism, service to the nation, and love for the country are largely absent from the education system. She advocates for a change in this regard.

Can you share an example of the kind of people who contributed to the project financially?

Contributors to the project included a wide range of people from different walks of life, such as a maid who donated her annual salary and an elderly lady who donated all but twenty-two rupees she had for expenses.

What is the website and contact number provided by Mrs. Chithade for those interested in supporting her mission?

The website provided is sirf.org.in, and the contact number is 9764294291 for those who wish to support the mission.