All India Sustainable Development Council

05/08/2026

Today, we mourn the heartbreaking loss of Rajesh, a true hero whose selfless courage will never be forgotten.

While responding to the devastating floods in Cherupuzha, Kannur, Rajesh made the ultimate sacrifice. In an extraordinary act of humanity, he removed his own life jacket and gave it to a person stranded in the floodwaters, ensuring that individual reached safety. In doing so, Rajesh lost his own life.

Rajesh was a specially trained member of the Disaster Search and Rescue Force (DSRF), dedicated to disaster response and public safety. Beyond his service, he inspired countless people as a swimming coach, sharing life-saving skills with the community.

His courage reminds us that the greatest acts of leadership are often those carried out in silence, without expectation of recognition. Rajesh embodied the highest ideals of public service, compassion, and sacrifice.

The All India Sustainable Development Council (AISDC), a Special Agency for UNDRR in India, extends its deepest condolences to Rajesh’s family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched.

We also acknowledge the decision to accord him State Honours and to complete the unfinished home he had been building—an enduring tribute to a life dedicated to serving others.

Rajesh’s legacy will continue to inspire disaster responders, volunteers, and citizens across India. May his sacrifice strengthen our collective commitment to disaster preparedness, community resilience, and the protection of every human life.

Rest in peace, Rajesh. Your courage will never be forgotten.

14/07/2026

The Power of Indigenous and Marginalised Voices: A Lesson from History

History has shown that communities who have faced oppression, exclusion, and injustice should never be underestimated. Power is not always measured by wealth, status, or position — sometimes it emerges from resilience, survival, and the demand for dignity.

Phoolan Devi, remembered as the “Bandit Queen,” remains one of the most complex and debated figures in modern Indian history. Born into a poor rural family, she experienced severe social injustice and personal trauma from a young age. Her life journey moved from victimhood and violence to political representation, where she became a symbol for many marginalised communities.

After surrendering in 1983, she spent years in prison before entering electoral politics and becoming a Member of Parliament in 1996. Her story reflects the deep challenges faced by vulnerable communities and the consequences that can arise when justice, equality, and social protection fail.

The lesson from history is clear: every community deserves dignity, opportunity, and equal rights. Sustainable peace cannot be built through revenge or violence, but through justice, empowerment, and recognition of the voices of those who have been historically ignored.

30/06/2026

Crimes in the fisheries sector extend far beyond illegal fishing.

From trafficking in fi****ms and drugs to fraud and money laundering, UNODC supports countries in addressing crime on vessels, in ports, and across fisheries value chains.

30/06/2026

25/06/2026

Friday is Charter Day. On this day 81 years ago, 50 nations came together in San Francisco, USA, to create a new organization founded on peace, prosperity and human rights.

The UN Charter — a symbol of global solidarity and cooperation — enshrines principles that remain as relevant today as they were in 1945: human rights, equality, dignity, international law and peace.

📸: Preamble of the UN Charter.

18/06/2026