12th November 2024, Kathmandu
The Glorious Program, launched in April 1994, has been a beacon of hope and a driving force behind rural prosperity in China. Initiated by ten visionary private entrepreneurs, this program aimed to alleviate poverty through development-driven projects that empower rural communities.
Glorious Program Transforming Rural Prosperity
Now, three decades later, the program has executed close to 1,500 transformative projects, uplifting countless lives and revitalizing the rural economy.
The Beginnings of a Glorious Endeavor
The Glorious Program was conceived with a noble mission: to leverage the resources and expertise of private enterprises to eradicate poverty. As Liu Yonghao, Chairman of New Hope Group and one of the initiators, expressed, “The term ‘Glorious Program’ signifies the glory of private enterprises and the noble mission of poverty alleviation.” The program encouraged private entrepreneurs to establish enterprises, create training programs, develop resources, and initiate trade in impoverished areas.
One of the earliest projects was the Xichang Hope (Feed) Company, established by the New Hope Group in Liangshan, Sichuan Province. The region, once barren, has been transformed into a hub of economic activity. “Thirty years ago, it was just barren land. Today, skyscrapers have emerged,” said an employee, highlighting the area’s transformation.
Significant Achievements and Entrepreneurial Impact
Over 12,800 private entrepreneurs have participated in the Glorious Program, contributing to nearly 1,500 development projects. These efforts have created a ripple effect, accelerating economic development and self-reliance in rural communities. The program has evolved from external support to a sustainable model where local populations are empowered to drive their prosperity.
The Transfer Group, another early participant, has focused on public welfare, including disaster relief and healthcare initiatives. Chairman Xu Guanju emphasized the importance of rural health infrastructure, noting that they have established clinics in over 1,000 villages, providing medical services to 1.8 million people.
Balancing Industry and Charity
The Glorious Program embodies the ancient Chinese philosophy of balancing righteousness and profit. This approach emphasizes moral integrity alongside business success. Fu Guangming, Chairman of Sunner Group, shared, “Helping individuals through this platform allows our business to thrive with the community’s support.” The program has enabled enterprises to strike a balance between economic growth and social responsibility, fostering a sense of unity and shared prosperity.
Modernizing Rural Agriculture
Liu Yonghao’s New Hope Group has been instrumental in modernizing agricultural practices. By empowering local farmers with advanced pig farming techniques, the company has created a model of sustainable rural development. “Our aim is to equip farmers with modern agricultural skills,” said Liu. This initiative has had a lasting impact, boosting the agricultural economy and improving the quality of life for rural residents.
A Legacy of Development and Unity
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on private enterprises to continue supporting the Glorious Program and other charitable endeavors. In 2016, he emphasized the importance of “balancing righteousness and profit” and urged businesses to fulfill their social responsibilities. The program has since contributed significantly to various national causes, such as ecological restoration, the revitalization of old industrial bases, and poverty alleviation efforts in the Three Gorges Reservoir area.
Conclusion
The Glorious Program stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the transformative potential of private enterprise. Over 30 years, it has catalyzed sustainable economic growth and empowered millions of rural residents. By maintaining a dual focus on industry and charity, the program has set a benchmark for development-driven poverty alleviation. As the program continues to evolve, it remains a shining example of how businesses can drive meaningful social change while achieving economic success.
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