Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur (SP)

Kundapur, Jul 19: Parvati, member of 'Namma Sabha' instituted by Kanyana Namma Bhoomi Society, who had toured China on an Indo-China cultural exchange programme from June 29 to July 5 explained that poverty exists even in China, which is perceived to have developed by leaps and bounds.

Many of the rural students there walk four to five kilometres to reach their schools. Village schools lack basic facilities. "We found that women of China, which is the most populous country is the world, are very hard working," she explained.

There is a huge cultural divide between us and the Chinese people. Chinese language gets prominence there and English does not find a place of importance as in India. But the fast-paced progress of China is highly commendable, she added.

The visiting team comprised of one hundred Indians including four from the State. The members introduced to the Chinese people various facets of Indian culture including Bharatnatyam. The people of china have lot of love and respect for India. Cleanliness and hygiene is one aspect which has been given paramount importance everywhere in china, Paravati said.

Expanse of agricultural lands can be witnessed in their villages. The great wall of China which figures among the sevel wonders of the world, really thrills the visitors. Women there occupy a place of pride both in education and employment, she narrated.

Bicycles are being used there by most of the people. However, youngsters, drivers, passengers etc., are seen smoking cigarettes openly at public places. Separate roads are built for the use of cyclists, she said, explaining about her experiences during the China visit.