THE ORDER ON THE MARCH (May )
By Unexhibited
Summary
The Ramakrishna Mission and Ramakrishna Math reported extensive activities across India and Bangladesh in early 2017. In India, Burdwan’s sub-centre was elevated to a full branch centre. Various centres celebrated anniversaries, including Swami Abhedanandaji Maharaj’s 150th birth anniversary in Nagpur and Sister Nivedita’s in Antpur, with seminars, dramas, and cultural events attracting over 1,000 participants. Youth and values education programs, including workshops and conventions, engaged thousands. Cleanliness drives under Swachchha Bharat Abhiyan involved thousands of volunteers across multiple locations. Free eye camps treated nearly 10,000 patients, with operations performed. Infrastructure developments included new operation theatres in Thiruvananthapuram and housing for slum families in Kolkata. Relief efforts addressed winter needs, distributing blankets and garments to over 6,300 people, fire relief in Assam, and drought rehabilitation in Maharashtra with water filters and supplies. Internationally, Dhaka centre marked its centenary with cultural and religious events, while Chittagong centre renamed itself.
Conclusion
The Order on the March (May 2017) highlights the Ramakrishna Mission's expansive outreach, marked by institutional growth, community engagement, and humanitarian efforts. Key developments include the elevation of Burdwan's sub-centre to a full branch, the centennial celebrations in Dhaka, and the expansion of educational and values-based programs across India. The Mission's commitment to service was evident in large-scale initiatives like free eye camps treating over 2,000 patients, winter relief distributing thousands of blankets, and disaster response efforts following fires in Assam. Environmental stewardship was emphasized through Swachh Bharat Abhiyan campaigns, while cultural and spiritual heritage was preserved via seminars, anniversaries, and youth conventions. These activities underscore the organization's role in fostering social welfare, education, and cultural cohesion, reinforcing its enduring impact on diverse communities.