In 1993 a new phase in IoJ ’s environmental education program was begun with the establishment of the Ahimsa Environment Award for achievements by both Jain businesses and community groups in the UK in adopting ‘good Jain practices’. These practices refer to the ethics applied in running a business or operating as a community group with particular reference to environmental friendliness, consideration for the welfare of staff or members, honesty and transparency in all dealings, and so forth. Representatives from the Body Shop, the WWF, and the National Council for Voluntary Organisations Environment Unit judged the applicants. The first awards were made in 1994 at a dinner attended by more than 300 people, including members of other faiths and organisations.

Greening of Palitana

Plans to reforest the hills around Palitana in India, the largest Jain pilgrimage site in the world, were begun with small-scale tree planting during 1997. It is hoped that when the project is developed further, a permanent exhibition will to be set up at Palitana to demonstrate the relationship between Jain beliefs and environmental practices.

Community Activities

Establishing Closer Relationship with the Indian High Commission Diplomats

In 1991 IoJ arranged the first of a series of Mahavir Janma Kalyanak Celebrations at the High Commissioner’s residence. The practice has now become an annual event in the Indian High Commission calendar.

In 1994, IoJ arranged for Bhagwan Mahavir’s murti to be installed at High Commissioner’s residence.

International Derasar Construction Coordination

IoJ coordinated the concept development, construction and completion of several derasars in Europe and the USA.