Interview - K Kulandaivel, freedom fighter

AS Gandhi Jayanthi was celebrated on Monday, K Kulandaivel, Chancellor of Coimbatore's Avinashilingham Deemed University, and a freedom fighter, was interviewed.

Excerpts:
In a fast globalising India with farmer at the receiving end, how do you view the relevance of Gandhian economics?
"Gandhiji advocated the economy of self-sufficiency, non-exploitation and Sarvodaya, wherein every individual, irrespective of his societal status, will get an opportunity to grow. He advocated decentralised production and encouraged villagers to produce handicraft goods. He said the rural masses should get fair prices for their produce and that people should not mind paying a little higher prices. This is Dharma, he said, and added each of us has a responsibility to protect and assure a decent living for all.
Today, developing countries like India are unable to face the challenges posed by globalisation and the world trade organisations. Foreign commodities enter into Indian market. Naturally, people go in for the comparatively cheaper foreign products. Where is the Swadeshi spirit?
Producers of the country are hit. They incur losses. They find it hard to repay the loans they have availed. They are left with only one option, to commit suicide. This is a grave situation. We have won political independence. But we are losing economic independence. We should never allow this.
Gandhian spirit should come in. He says consume first all the products produced in the country. When the products produced in the country are insufficient, then go in for imports. So, Gandhian economics is relevant and
it is the need of the hour."

What hopes do Gandhian values hold up to a world caught under the shadow of terror?
"Gandhiji tells: love all. The terrorism of today is based on religious fanaticism, intolerance and greed for money. Is there a salvation? Yes, return to Gandhian values. He tells people to respect all religions. He is against covetousness. The tenets of all religions emphasise the same.
If it is not understood, barbarism would come round again".

In an IT-centric academic scenario, what are your views on introducing Gandhian studies as a compulsory subject in the curriculum?
"When the main target is money, IT-related courses and jobs are of prime preference. The professionals do earn a lot and lead a posh life. But are they really happy and peaceful? This is a serious question for the society in toto. The importance of Gandhian values and the need to introduce it as a compulsory subject is felt here."

How did Gandhiji change your views and way of living
"I came under the influence of Gandhiji in 1939, when I was just in the seventh standard. I studied his books and wore khadi and followed his teachings. I spun in a charka during college days, to the surprise of my fellows. But that brought great respect to me. As a follower of the Mahatma, I am happy and proud."