NOC Chairman, Dr. Narendra Sharma gave a talk on Overcoming poverty and income-inequality: A global and local imperative, to the Unitarian Church of the Lowcountry on November 12, 2016. In his opening remarks, Dr. Sharma said that “We live in a constant state of flux where our lives and the world we live in are continuously changing. This phenomenon alters the social order and brings uncertainty. It unleashes forces that impact the quality of our lives and our aspirations. There are gainers and losers due to these changes. The gainers benefit while losers are often angry, frustrated, and pessimistic. The losers want change because they want their fair share. They see hope in change irrespective of its consequences.
“This phenomenon has been occurring with increasing intensity throughout the world over the past 50 years. The key forces are globalization, technological advancement, the emergence of capital markets, and the flow of capital, trade, and movement of people. These forces have combined to change modes of production and use of resources, economies, consumption patterns, investments, and communication. They have also given rise to significant income inequality throughout the world.
“In addition, these forces have increased interdependency among countries and contributed to enormous growth in wealth and a global economy. This trend has benefited a few while leaving many behind. This outcome has created tension, apathy, and a sense of helplessness. This is the reality and paradox that we face today. Our challenge is to address the issue of poverty and income inequality at the local, national, and global levels within the realm of capitalism, free market, and democracy. Dr. Sharma outlined specific recommendations for Beaufort County.
Follow the link below to see his presentation.
