224 Abode of God?
their introduction as pahari they have always been subject of
sheer neglect, the net result of which has been that today we
face following complex and varied problems about the land and
people of Uttarakhand.
Political neglect
Today, the Himalayas, particularly central Himalayas have thr-
own up not only the challenge of underprivileged poor and down- ,
trodden people but also the challenge of unassimilated citizens
who have to be integrated into the mainstream of our national
life. For doing so, it is necessary that the study of the history,,
culture and civilisation is encouraged. Their role in shaping the
national scene is interpreted and explained not only to them but
to the students of history. It should be so highlighted that
they could take a sense of pride in their past and prepare them--
selves for playing such role in the future.
Economic degradation
What we see on the roadside is not Himalayan economy. It
merely reflects recent gains out of our new found love for the
Himalayas after 1962 or earnings from the traditionalism trade.
Just below or above the roadside in the villages people are living
a life which is devoid of sanitation, hygiene and all modern
amenities. Therefore, the prime requisite is the establishment of
a sound, solid and broadbased economy. For establishing such
economy, the locals will have to be given adequate training to
make full use of the resources of modern science and technology.
In undertaking this delicate task under the hazardous and inhospi-
table conditions of the unapproachable terrain of the Himalayas,,
those in charge of social welfare work in the border areas will
have to make a determined effort and utilise all the resourceful-
ness at their command It must be borne in mind that all change
must come through the volition of beneficiaries, continued experi-
ence and local conditioning. It has not to emanate from the white
collared bureaucrats sitting in the air conditioned rooms or
through political gimmickery of the vested interests.
Illiteracy
The causes of low literacy in the region are far to seek, parti-