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"Look Who's Back!": 5 Endangered Animals That Are Thriving Again

Nature’s got this superpower, when we give it a chance, it bounces back stronger than ever. Around the globe, conservationists, eco-warriors, local heroes, and even entire governments are teaming up to save wildlife that was once so close to disappearing forever. It’s like watching nature get its groove back, and trust us, it's totally worth celebrating. Let’s explore five animals that went from "oops, they're almost extinct" to "look at them now!" and left us all in awe of what a little love and care can do.1. The Giant Panda: The Ultimate Comeback KidAlright, who doesn't love a panda? These adorable fluffballs were this close to becoming history. Native to China, pandas were suffering from habitat loss, low birth rates, and the classic "whoops, we've almost destroyed everything" situation. But hold up, thanks to some serious panda power moves (we’re talking about reforestation, creating panda sanctuaries, and breeding programs), their numbers have started climbing again! In 2016, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) was like, “Hey, pandas aren’t endangered anymore, they're just ‘vulnerable.” That’s progress, people! Now with over 1,800 pandas chilling in the wild, things are looking good for these cuddly, bamboo-munching celebs.2. The Bald Eagle: Soaring High (and we mean high)The Bald Eagle, America’s symbol of freedom, was seriously on the ropes. Habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and a major battle with DDT pesticides nearly wiped out this majestic bird. At one point, there were fewer than 500 nesting pairs in the U.S. But then, the government stepped in, banning DDT, and conservationists went full throttle with breeding programs and legal protections. By 2007, Bald Eagles had made such a dramatic comeback that they were removed from the Endangered Species List. Now? There are over 300,000 Bald Eagles flying around like they own the sky. 3. The Humpback Whale: The Ocean’s Ultimate SurvivorThese big, beautiful whales were nearly hunted out of existence. Thanks to whaling, Humpback Whales saw their numbers drop by a jaw-dropping 90%. But there’s a twist in this ocean drama: after the 1986 global ban on commercial whaling and new conservation rules (think: safer shipping routes and protected marine zones), these whales made one heck of a recovery. Today, there are more than 80,000 Humpback Whales swimming in our oceans, hello, comeback king! Every time you see a humpback breech out of the water, know it’s a victory for marine conservation.4. The Black Rhino: Tougher Than EverThe Black Rhino has been through some serious struggles. Poaching for their horns nearly drove them into extinction, and by the 1990s, only about 2,500 rhinos were left in the wild. Cue the dramatic rescue: conservationists got to work with anti-poaching squads, stricter laws, and safe havens where rhinos could chill in peace. They even relocated rhinos to protected areas to keep them safe from the bad guys. Fast-forward to today, and Black Rhino numbers have climbed to over 5,500. It's a solid comeback, but there’s still work to be done. Poaching's got nothing on these tough, thick-skinned warriors.5. The Green Sea Turtle: Shelled SurvivorsThese ancient reptiles were once swimming through a nightmare of illegal poaching, fishing gear entanglements, and plastic pollution. They were struggling to keep their numbers up, but then the tide turned! Thanks to programs like Project AWARE and Sea Turtle Conservancy, folks around the world started protecting nesting sites, rescuing injured turtles, and raising awareness about marine pollution. Add in some strict fishing regulations, and boom, Green Sea Turtle populations are climbing! While they’re still on the endangered list, their recovery is a shining example of how we can make waves for marine life.Let’s Co-exist: Nature’s Got This!From pandas to turtles, these wildlife wins show us that when we get together and push for change, nature can work some serious magic. Sure, conservation isn’t a quick fix, but these epic comebacks remind us that every little action, whether it's planting trees, supporting conservation organizations, or simply spreading the word counts.So, let's keep the momentum going and make sure future generations get to experience these incredible creatures in the wild. Because when we protect nature, nature’s got our back in return. The world belongs to them as much as it does to us, why not Co-Exist?  

26 Mar 2025
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Walking on Air: India’s First Glass Bridge Opens in Tamil Nadu

In a historic leap for Tamil Nadu's tourism sector, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin inaugurated India’s first glass bridge on Monday evening. It connects the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial with the towering 133-foot Thiruvalluvar statue off Kanyakumari's coast. This cutting-edge structure blends natural beauty with modern engineering and promises an unforgettable experience for visitors.The inauguration coincided with the silver jubilee of the Thiruvalluvar statue, unveiled 25 years ago by the late Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. The bridge symbolizes a fusion of the past and the future and is poised to transform Kanyakumari into a global tourist hotspot.A Spectacular Engineering FeatStretching 77 meters in length and 10 meters in width, the glass bridge is a marvel of modern engineering. Its bowstring arch enhances its aesthetic appeal and ensures durability against the corrosive coastal climate. Constructed at a cost of ₹37 crore, with high-strength glass, the bridge offers a unique thrill—walking above the sea while enjoying panoramic views of the monuments and the endless ocean. The transparency of the glass floor adds an adventurous edge. It is a must-visit for those seeking both natural and architectural wonders.A Journey Above the WavesPreviously, tourists relied on ferry services to travel between the Vivekananda Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar statue. The new glass bridge not only eliminates the need for ferries but offers a leisurely and scenic alternative. Walking across the bridge, visitors can marvel at the striking landmarks and the serene beauty of the surrounding seascape.Chief Minister Stalin shared a video of the bridge on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, showcasing its stunning design and breathtaking views. The clip has since captured the attention of thousands towards this architectural wonder.The inauguration of the bridge was a grand event, with Chief Minister Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, MP Kanimozhi, and other dignitaries taking a ceremonial walk across the structure. The festivities continued with a laser light show at the Thiruvalluvar statue, illuminating the night sky and adding to the celebration.The bridge serves as a tribute to the region’s cultural legacy, with the Thiruvalluvar statue symbolizing Tamil wisdom and literature and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial reflecting the timeless teachings of Swami Vivekananda. Together, these landmarks embody the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu, now further highlighted by this modern marvel.Beyond its tourism potential, the project is set to benefit the local economy. Increased footfall is likely to boost local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to souvenir shops.Source: Google ImagesKey Features of the Glass BridgeBreathtaking Views: Panoramic vistas of the Vivekananda Memorial, Thiruvalluvar statue, and the expansive sea.Architectural Elegance: A bowstring arch design combining beauty with resilience.Safety and Longevity: High-strength glass and advanced materials to withstand coastal conditions.Cultural Significance: A modern connection between two iconic symbols of Tamil heritage.The inauguration of India’s first glass bridge is a big milestone in tourism. As visitors stroll above the waves, taking in the unparalleled views, they experience the seamless blend of the old and the new, the timeless and the modern.This ₹37-crore marvel not only links two iconic landmarks but also brings people closer to Tamil Nadu's rich heritage. It puts Kanyakumari on the map as a must-visit spot for culture and architecture, inviting the world to experience the future of Indian tourism.

31 Dec 2024
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A Christmas Gift for Conservation: Two Red Pandas Arrive in Darjeeling!

On December 25, 2024, West Bengal marked a special Christmas celebration with the arrival of two male red pandas from Rotterdam Zoo in the Netherlands. This acquisition, the first of its kind in a decade, is a significant milestone for India’s red panda conservation efforts. The two pandas, Bishal and Koshi, have arrived at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNZP) in Darjeeling, where they will play an important role in strengthening the zoo's successful breeding program. Currently, the animals are in good health and will undergo a thorough health check-up at the zoo.A Step Forward for Genetic DiversityThe red panda (Ailurus fulgens), also known as the lesser panda, is an endangered species native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China. As part of India’s long-term efforts to conserve this remarkable species, the arrival of Bishal and Koshi is seen as a vital step in enhancing the genetic diversity of the breeding program at PNZP.“The red pandas have been brought here for conservation breeding purposes, and this is our first acquisition of red pandas from a foreign zoo in nearly a decade,” said Saurabh Chaudhury, member secretary of the West Bengal Zoo Authority. “Both are two-and-a-half years old and will undergo a month-long quarantine period. After that, they will be paired together for breeding.”By introducing fresh bloodlines from abroad, the zoo hopes to strengthen the genetic pool of red pandas and ensure a healthier, more sustainable breeding program. The reason why the two pandas will be quarantined is to enable them to get acclimatized to the climate before being paired.Enhancing Conservation EffortsThe PNZP is home to India’s most successful red panda breeding program, which has been in operation since 1986. It is also the coordinating zoo for the Red Panda Breeding Program (Project Red Panda) in India, a joint initiative between high-altitude zoos in Darjeeling, Gangtok (Sikkim), and Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh). Through these collaborative efforts, the breeding program has successfully increased the population of red pandas in captivity.The arrival of Bishal and Koshi brings the zoo's red panda count to 20, including seven males, 12 females, and two cubs. The zoo authorities are currently awaiting the sex of the cubs, who were born earlier this year. Red pandas, with fewer than 10,000 individuals left in the wild, are classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This makes their conservation very critical.The Role of Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological ParkFounded in 1958, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is known for its dedicated efforts in the conservation of endangered species, especially those native to the Himalayas. In September 2022, the zoo was recognized as the best in the country across all categories. Apart from its successful red panda breeding program, PNZP is also engaged in the conservation of other endangered species, including the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and Himalayan wolf.The zoo has established itself as a leader in wildlife conservation by continually improving its breeding programs and collaborating with international institutions. The addition of Bishal and Koshi further strengthens this reputation, ensuring that the red panda’s future in India remains bright.The arrival of these two red pandas symbolizes hope for the future of the species in India. Their presence at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park will help increase awareness about red panda conservation, not just in India but globally. With continued efforts from zoos, wildlife authorities, and the public, there is optimism that red pandas will thrive in the wild once again.

27 Dec 2024
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India's First Constitution Museum Opens to Celebrate 75 Years of the Constitution!

India’s first-ever Constitution Museum was inaugurated on Saturday at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), Haryana, by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. This historic milestone, coincides with the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution on 26 November.Shri Om Birla stated that the museum will familiarize current and future generations with the foundational ideals of our Constitution and the vibrant debates that shaped it. He commended Naveen Jindal, Chancellor of JGU, for spearheading this initiative to honor the vision of India’s founding fathers. Exploring the Constitution: An Immersive JourneyThe museum serves as a rich repository of knowledge, offering an immersive experience that guides visitors through the history and core principles of the Indian Constitution. Through advanced technology and multimedia storytelling, the exhibits vividly recreate the atmosphere of pre-independence India, leading up to the momentous events that shaped the drafting of the Constitution.With features like 360-degree visual displays and detailed chronological narratives, the museum provides an in-depth exploration of the Constitution's foundational elements and key provisions. Visitors are invited to reflect on the enduring values of equality, liberty, fraternity, and justice, which have been pivotal in shaping the democratic fabric of modern India. Commemorating the Vision of India’s Founding FathersAddressing the gathering, Naveen Jindal, Chancellor of JGU, emphasized the significance of the Constitution as the world’s longest written charter and a symbol of the extraordinary efforts of the Constituent Assembly.Jindal remarked that the museum serves as a reminder of the vision, sacrifices, and foresight of India’s founding fathers. He highlighted that it celebrates the Constitution as a transformative document, one that has brought about profound social, economic, and political change in the country.Highlighting the occasion, Jindal spoke about the National Convention on the Constitution, hosted by JGU from November 23 to 25, which brought together distinguished speakers to discuss democracy and constitutionalism in India. The Constitution: A Guide to Equality, Liberty, and FraternityLaw Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal described the Constitution as a guiding philosophy for India and the world. He remarked that the principles of equality, liberty, and fraternity form the cornerstone of our Constitution. He further stated that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, its chief architect, believed that true independence could only be achieved through equality.He added that the museum stands as a tribute to Ambedkar’s enduring legacy and expressed hope that parliamentarians and legislators would visit to gain a modern, digital perspective on the making of the Constitution.Source: Google ImagesA Tribute to ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call in 2015 to celebrate Constitution Day, urging Indians to honor the efforts of those who framed this foundational document. “Our democracy has united diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, exemplifying the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and 'the world is one family' throughout its 75-year journey." he added.The museum’s opening also marked the commemoration of 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution on November 26, 1949, a day that holds immense historical and cultural significance for India.Professor C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU, expressed pride in hosting the museum and the accompanying convention. He added that the convention featured distinguished speakers from law, politics, and public life, enriching discussions on the Constitution’s enduring relevance in India’s democratic framework.As India celebrates 75 years of constitutional democracy, the Constitution Museum at JGU serves as a symbol of its foundational ideals. It provides citizens with an opportunity to delve into the document’s timeless values and gain a deeper understanding of its transformative power.India’s first Constitution Museum is more than a celebration of history—it’s a call to action for every citizen to embrace the ideals of justice, liberty, and equality that define the nation.

25 Nov 2024
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Turtley Awesome: Locals Celebrate as Olive Ridley Road Gains Global Attention

In a heartening victory for both local communities and conservationists, Kasarkod Tonka in Honnavar taluk has been officially marked on Google Maps as a critical nesting site for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles. The identification of the "Olive Ridley Turtle Road" by Google brings renewed hope for the future protection and preservation of this crucial area, particularly as it has been at the center of a legal dispute for years.Battle for ConservationFor five years, this 1.4 km-long mud road, which connects the coastal settlement to a proposed private port, has been the subject of intense debate. A private port company had petitioned the courts to declare the road a port route and sought permission to widen it into a four-lane, asphalt road. The expansion would have drastically altered the surrounding environment, threatening the fragile nesting grounds of the Olive Ridley turtles, a species listed as critically endangered under India's Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.However, local fishermen and environmental activists have staunchly opposed this plan, emphasizing the importance of this location as one of the state's most significant Olive Ridley nesting sites. Every year, between December and April, female Olive Ridley turtles make their way to the shores of Kasarkod Tonka to lay their eggs. The beaches here have become a hub for both scientists and conservationists, who closely monitor the nesting activity. Their research and observations have been instrumental in highlighting the ecological importance of the region.Win for Wildlife ConservationA particularly interesting development in the fight to protect the turtles came with Google's decision to recognize the area as a conservation site. Marine biologist and activist Prakash Mesta believes that Google’s mapping of the "Olive Ridley Turtle Road" and its surrounding beach area as a conservation zone is the result of years of meticulous documentation. "Over the past couple of years, visitors and scientists have come here to study the nesting patterns and have tagged the area as a nesting site. This consistent tagging and public interest may have led to Google recognizing this place as a conservation area," said Mesta.This recognition could have long-term benefits for the protection of the turtles. By marking it on the world's most popular mapping platform, more people—especially those searching for information on Olive Ridley turtles—are now directed to this site. It not only increases awareness of the need to conserve the area but also strengthens the local argument against industrial expansion that could jeopardize the turtles' habitat.Source: Google ImagesThe Olive Ridley sea turtle, one of the smallest of all sea turtles, is best known for its synchronized mass nesting behavior known as *arribada*. During an *arribada*, thousands of females come ashore simultaneously to lay eggs, often in the same place where they were born. While the species is found in various tropical and subtropical waters around the world, its population has significantly declined over the past few decades, largely due to human activities, habitat loss, and illegal poaching. Therefore, protecting nesting sites like Kasarkod Tonka is crucial for ensuring their survival.The decision to conserve this beach could serve as a model for similar efforts along India's vast coastline. The collaboration between local activists, scientists, and global platforms like Google could inspire other regions to adopt similar strategies for wildlife protection.For the residents of Kasarkod Tonka, this recognition has brought a sense of pride and optimism. They hope that the newfound attention will lead to even greater efforts to safeguard the turtles and their habitats in the years to come. The road ahead may still be long, as the legal battle over the port road continues, but with growing awareness and the backing of global platforms, the odds may be shifting in favor of conservation.As the world becomes more attuned to the need for environmental sustainability, stories like that of the Olive Ridley turtles in Honnavar remind us of the power of grassroots activism and modern technology to protect our planet’s most vulnerable species.

11 Sep 2024
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Indian Sand Artist Sudarshan's Astonishing Victory !

The iconic Peter and Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg was the grand stage for the International Sand Sculpture Championship, held from July 4-12. The event saw the participation of 21 of the world’s greatest sculptors, showcasing their incredible talents in sand artistry. Emerging victorious was Sudarshan Pattnaik, an Indian sand artist hailing from Puri, Odisha. Born on April 15, 1977, Pattnaik has become a prominent figure in the world of sand art. His remarkable beachside creations have earned him the Padma Shri in 2014, India's fourth-highest civilian honor. Pattnaik has represented India in over 65 international sand art competitions and festivals, winning numerous accolades for his work. Pattnaik's victory at the championship adds another prestigious title to his illustrious career. Known for his ability to transform sand into stunning visual narratives, his works often convey powerful social messages. Each sculpture tells a story, reflecting themes ranging from environmental conservation to global peace. His Achievement and Awards Won Due To His Mystical Creation and Dedication To Art ~  He was awarded Padma Shri by the Government of India, the Fourth Highest Civilian Award in India, 2014 for his contribution to Sand Arts. People’s Choice Award at Sand Sculpting World Cup 2014 at Atlantic City, US. First Indian to win the Italian Sand Art Award, 2019, at the International Scorrano Sand Nativity event held in Lecce, Italy from 13 to 17 November. Pattnaik had created a 12-foot sculpture depicting a chariot and Lord Jagannath with his devotee Balaram Das, the famous Odia poet of the 14th century. He dreamed to create a sand sculpture of Mahaprabhu Jagannath and founder of sand art Balaram Das on foreign land.  (Source: Google Images)  His Tale Behind Inspiration ~ It is said that he attempted to ascend Lord Jagannath's chariot once during the "Rath Yatra" to make prayers. After being turned down, Das traveled to a beach where he sculpted the images of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra into the golden sand and began to pray. He claimed that because of his intense devotion, the gods left the chariot and appeared where Das was worshiping. Meanwhile, Pattnaik received congratulations for the accomplishment from the Indian embassy in Moscow. His Art Speaks To Many ~  Art is a potent tool for self-expression and communication. It has the amazing power to bring people together.'Sand art' is what stirs people's emotions in this instance. It conveys ideas that are felt and shared by groups in ways that are sometimes difficult to put into words. An artist is conveying what they have seen, even if they are attempting to capture reality precisely. However, there are a plethora of other creative forms that aim to convey to the viewer specific feelings, concepts, disagreements, or worldviews.  

16 Jul 2024
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India Takes a Leap in Defense Technology As Its First Indigenous Bomber Was Unveiled in Bengaluru

The leading force in Indian aerospace and defense, Flying Wedge Defence, has unveiled the FWD-200B, the country's first-ever domestic bomber UAV. This revelation is a major milestone in supporting the Made in India initiative and reducing India's reliance on costly foreign unmanned bomber aircraft. With a 100-kilogram payload capacity, the FWD-200B is classified as a MALE (medium-altitude, long-endurance) unmanned combat aerial vehicle. It is intended to deliver missile-like weaponry for accurate airstrikes and is outfitted with optical surveillance payloads. It can reach a top speed of 200 knots, or 370 km/h, and has an amazing endurance range of 12 to 20 hours.    "With a visionary aim to position India as a global hub for drone manufacturing and technology, Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace endeavors to fortify national security through cutting-edge air defense capabilities, . Suhas Tejaskanda, founder of Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace, expressed, 'For over 15 years, India's ambition for combat unmanned aircraft remained distant.' Now, with the launch of the FWD-200B, India joins the prestigious league of nations possessing cutting-edge combat aircraft." The firm aims to position India as a leading worldwide hub for drone manufacturing and technology. By equipping India with cutting-edge air defense capabilities, this project hopes to strengthen national security in the long run. Tejaskanda emphasized, "While the US Predator costs a staggering Rs 250 crores, our indigenous FWD-200B, incorporating cutting-edge technology and manufactured domestically, slashes the cost to a mere Rs 25 crores. This underscores our dedication to self-reliance and positions India as a frontrunner in cost-effective defense solutions." The advanced manufacturing hub of Flying Wedge Defence, sprawling over 12,000 square feet in Electronic City, meticulously crafted the FWD-200B, marking a significant stride towards India's self-sufficiency in defense technology." It's A Moment Of Pride For the Entire Nation ~  (Source: Google Images)  The company stated that the FWD-200B could carry a maximum takeoff weight of 498 Kgs and also mentioned that it holds a ground control station (GCS) range of 200 km. Tejaskanda further stated that within the next three months, they should be able to take it to the Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC) and complete the certification process. He added that once the certification is obtained, they would be ready to induct it into the forces. He also stated that later this month, the full-scale model of the FWD-200B will undergo flight testing. Next month, the business intends to closely monitor and evaluate the aircraft's behavior and flying dynamics ~ seems like a lot of things to uncover!

7 May 2024
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Sustainable Solutions: Scindia Inaugurates India's First Green Hydrogen Project in India

In a significant step towards sustainable development, Union Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia virtually inaugurated India's first green hydrogen project in Hisar, Haryana. The project is a collaborative effort between Jindal Stainless Ltd. and Hygenco, with the aim of reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy sources. Revolutionizing the Stainless Steel Sector Jindal Stainless Ltd., a leading player in the stainless steel sector, has taken a pioneering step by establishing the country's first green hydrogen facility. This project marks a significant milestone in the industry, as it aims to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 2,700 metric tonnes per annum and a total of 54,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next 20 years. Promoting Environmental Sustainability The green hydrogen project sets an example for sustainable practices in the stainless steel manufacturing process. By adopting green hydrogen, Jindal Stainless Ltd. aims to minimize the environmental impact of its operations. The facility features floating solar panels, which not only generate renewable energy but also help reduce water evaporation. Collaboration for a Greener Future Jindal Stainless Ltd. has partnered with Hygenco to bring this groundbreaking project to fruition. The collaboration highlights the commitment of both companies towards promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon footprints. The project has been developed on a long-term build-own-operate-transfer (BOOT) basis, ensuring its sustainability and long-term viability. Prominent Inauguration Ceremony The virtual inauguration ceremony was led by Union Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia, who commended Jindal Stainless Ltd. and Hygenco for their innovative efforts. The event was attended by Steel Secretary Nagendra Nath Sinha, Jindal Stainless Managing Director Abhyuday Jindal, and other senior officials. The presence of these esteemed individuals further emphasizes the importance of this project in the renewable energy landscape. Green Hydrogen: A Crucial Element In his address, Abhyuday Jindal, the Managing Director of Jindal Stainless Ltd., highlighted the significance of green hydrogen in stainless steel manufacturing. Conventional processes often result in high CO2 emissions, making it imperative to find sustainable alternatives. The green hydrogen plant at the Hisar unit will play a vital role in reducing emissions and promoting a greener future for the stainless steel industry. A Step Towards Decarbonization The green hydrogen project at Jindal Stainless Ltd. is a significant step towards decarbonizing the stainless steel sector. By embracing renewable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions, the company is leading the way in sustainable manufacturing practices. This initiative aligns with the global efforts to combat climate change and achieve a more sustainable future.

6 Mar 2024
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Reliance Foundation Unveils 'Vantara': Animal Rescue Initiative

The Vantara (star of the forest) program, an umbrella project focused on the rescue, treatment, care, and rehabilitation of wounded, abused, and threatened animals in India and abroad, was introduced by Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) and Reliance Foundation. Vantara, which spans 3,000 acres and is located inside the green belt of RIL's Jamnagar refinery complex in Gujarat, hopes to become a major worldwide player in conservation efforts. Vantara has transformed a vast 3000-acre area into a jungle-like setting that resembles the natural, nourishing, lush, and green habitat for the rescued animals to flourish by collaborating with top animal care and welfare specialists.  "Vantara aims to partner with the Zoo Authority of India and other relevant government organizations in improving all the 150+ zoos in India in terms of training, capacity building, and animal care infrastructure," says Anant Ambani, a director on the boards of RIL and the Reliance Foundation. We hope Vantara becomes a global symbol of hope and can demonstrate how an innovative organization may support international efforts to conserve biodiversity." Globally Rescues, Cares For, and Rehabilitates Mistreated, and Endangered Animals ~ The initiative has saved thousands of different creatures, including birds and reptiles, and more than 200 elephants from dangerous circumstances throughout the last few years. It has started programs for important species, such as the rehabilitation of crocodiles, leopards, and rhinos. Recently, Vantara has also participated in international rescue operations in nations like Venezuela and Mexico. In response to a plea from Central American zoo authorities, it recently brought in several large creatures. Strict legal and regulatory procedures are followed in India and across the world for all such rescue and rehabilitation operations. Their main goal is to save India's native species that are at grave risk of extinction. Along with addressing immediate threats to species, they also want to restore essential ecosystems and position Vantara as a cutting-edge conservation initiative. When it comes to the preservation and protection of wildlife, animal rescue, and conservation organizations are rays of hope. These facilities are essential for the rescue, rehabilitation, and frequent release of wounded and endangered animals back into their natural environments. This article examines the importance of animal rescue and conservation organizations as well as the admirable job they undertake to protect the biodiversity of our world. A Vital Link for Damaged and Threatened Species ~ For animals in need, animal rescue and conservation organizations are like lifelines. They are committed to saving and providing for animals who have been harmed by a variety of issues, including poaching, habitat degradation, climate change, and mishaps. These facilities house a diverse array of species, ranging from small organisms like endangered amphibians and reptiles to spectacular megafauna like lions and elephants. Healing and Recuperation ~ Animal rehabilitation is one of these institutes' main responsibilities. When an animal is sent to a facility, it might be ill, injured, or abandoned. Veterinarians, biologists, and other highly qualified and enthusiastic experts put out endless effort to restore these creatures' health. The goal of the rehabilitation procedure is to enable the animals' ultimate reintroduction into their native environments. Public Awareness and Education ~ Additionally essential to bringing attention to the problems facing endangered species and the larger field of wildlife conservation are animal rescue and conservation facilities. Many of these establishments are accessible to the general public, giving guests the chance to discover more about the animals, their histories, and the dangers they face. To foster a feeling of accountability and compassion for the world's animals, these institutions hold educational events and engage in community outreach. The first lines of defense for the damaged and threatened wildlife on our planet are animal rescue and conservation organizations. They are the embodiment of the devotion of people and institutions devoted to preserving biodiversity and our common natural heritage. In addition to educating the public and promoting a more sustainable, peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife, these facilities give hope to the animals under their care. These institutions serve as a constant reminder of how vital it is to preserve and value the amazing diversity of life on Earth via their diligent efforts. For a variety of reasons, both the planet and its inhabitants value animals. Fortunately, there are a lot of groups dedicated to protecting various animal species and ecosystems. There are several opportunities to participate and bring about constructive change!

28 Feb 2024
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India's Weightage in MSCI Global Standard Index Reaches Record High

India's importance in the global investment landscape has reached a new milestone as the country's weightage in the MSCI Global Standard Index has surged to a record high. This development highlights India's growing economic prowess and presents new opportunities for investors. Let's delve into the details and implications of this significant achievement. MSCI is an acronym for Morgan Stanley Capital International. It is an investment research firm. India's Rising Weightage: The index provider MSCI recently announced an increase in India's weightage in the MSCI Global Standard Index. This means that Indian equities will now have a larger representation in the global investment benchmark. The weightage has climbed to a record high of 9.7%, a substantial increase from 6.6% just a year ago. This surge reflects the positive sentiment surrounding India's economic growth and potential. Implications for India's Economy: India's higher weightage in the MSCI Global Standard Index has several implications for the country's economy. Firstly, it signifies increased investor confidence in India's growth prospects and policies. This confidence can attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) and stimulate economic development. Additionally, a higher weightage can lead to improved market liquidity and depth, making it easier for investors to buy and sell Indian stocks. Opportunities for Investors: The record-high weightage of India in the MSCI Global Standard Index presents compelling investment opportunities for both domestic and international investors. The inclusion of Indian equities in a widely followed global index can attract significant inflows from institutional investors, pension funds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This influx of capital can contribute to the growth of Indian companies and potentially boost stock market performance. Sectoral Impact: The increased weightage in the MSCI Global Standard Index will also have sectoral implications. Industries that dominate the Indian equity market, such as information technology (IT), pharmaceuticals, and financial services, are likely to benefit from this development. These sectors have shown resilience and strong growth potential, making them attractive investment options. Furthermore, the weightage increase can foster innovation and encourage companies to focus on improving corporate governance and transparency. Global Recognition: India's higher weightage in the MSCI Global Standard Index is a testament to the country's evolving economic landscape and the efforts taken to improve its investment climate. This recognition on a global platform can enhance India's reputation as an attractive investment destination. It also reinforces the government's initiatives to promote ease of doing business, attract foreign investment, and strengthen economic fundamentals. Challenges and the Way Forward: While India's increased weightage in the MSCI Global Standard Index is a positive development, it also presents challenges. The country must continue its efforts to address structural issues, such as infrastructure gaps, regulatory reforms, and bureaucratic hurdles. Moreover, sustaining economic growth and maintaining investor confidence are crucial for India to retain and further enhance its weightage in global indices. As India continues to implement reforms and address challenges, it has the potential to further strengthen its position as a key player in the global investment arena.

16 Feb 2024
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Saiga Antelope No Longer Endangered with 1.9 Million Roaming Central Asian Steppes

After years of dedicated conservation efforts, the saiga antelope population in Central Asia has made a remarkable recovery, with over 1.9 million individuals now roaming the region's steppes. This significant increase has led to a change in the IUCN Red List status of the saiga from Critically Endangered to Near Threatened. The saiga antelope, known for its distinctive downward-facing nostrils and ringed horns, was once on the brink of extinction. However, collaborative efforts between state governments, research institutes, and conservation NGOs have brought about this conservation success story. The recovery of the saiga population faced many challenges, including outbreaks of zoological diseases. Despite these obstacles, the saiga's stronghold in Kazakhstan, the largest country in Central Asia, has seen a remarkable rebound. Populations have surged from a critically low 48,000 individuals in 2005 to the current count of over 1.9 million. The conservation efforts have extended beyond Kazakhstan, with saiga populations also found in Russia and China. China, in particular, has provided stringent protection measures for the antelope, comparable to those in place for endangered species like giant pandas and rhinos. The Kazakh government has played a crucial role in safeguarding the saiga population. In recent years, they have designated over 1.5 million acres of protected areas to ensure the antelope's habitat remains secure. This success story serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and resource allocation in conservation efforts. It highlights the importance of preserving the natural heritage of Central Asia and ensuring the long-term survival of endangered species like the saiga antelope. 

3 Jan 2024
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Revolutionary 'No-Kill Caviar' Method Saves Sturgeon and Yields Superior Product

A sustainable revolution is underway in the caviar industry, thanks to a pioneering German scientist who has developed a groundbreaking method that not only safeguards endangered sturgeon but also produces superior caviar. Dr. Angela Köhler, a polar and marine scientist from the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) in Germany, has created the "no-kill caviar" technique that allows for the harvesting of caviar without harming the sturgeon. Caviar is fish eggs, exclusively obtained from the sturgeon fish species. It is found in colors like olive green, grey, and orange. Caviar is harvested specifically from female sturgeon kept for this purpose. Traditionally, caviar production has relied on wild sturgeon, leading to overfishing and depletion of stocks. With the introduction of the "no-kill caviar" method, caviar culturalists can now sustainably harvest the precious black pearls. The AWI's patented process involves monitoring female sturgeon until their eggs are ready and then gently massaging them to release the eggs naturally. This innovative approach activates enzymes within the eggs, stabilizing their membranes and ensuring high-quality caviar. The caviar produced using the "no-kill" method has been praised for its exceptional quality and purity. Microscopy images have revealed that the caviar is free from blood vessels and follicle cells, eliminating the need for preservatives. It has a long shelf life of up to nine months and offers a fresh marine taste. The implementation of this method has not only contributed to the preservation of sturgeon but has also attracted interest from around the world. Farms in the United States, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Sweden, and Ireland have already obtained licenses, and there are requests from countries such as China, Iran, and Russia. With the "no-kill caviar" technique, a new era of sustainable caviar production has begun, ensuring the survival of sturgeon while delighting connoisseurs with an exquisite culinary experience.

25 Nov 2023
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Revolutionary 'Super Melanin' Cream Repairs Skin from Sun Exposure and Chemical Burns

A groundbreaking discovery by scientists at Northwestern University has led to the development of a remarkable 'super melanin' cream that has the potential to heal skin damage caused by sun exposure and chemical burns. The synthetic melanin cream, which mimics the natural melanin found in human skin, has shown promising results in accelerating the healing process when topically applied to injured skin. In a recent study published in Nature Regenerative Medicine, researchers demonstrated that the synthetic melanin cream offers protection against sun damage and aids in the recovery of skin injured by sunburn or chemical burns. The cream works by scavenging free radicals, which are harmful molecules produced during skin damage. Left unchecked, free radicals can lead to skin aging and even skin cancer. Unlike traditional sunscreen, the synthetic melanin remains on the surface of the skin without being absorbed into the deeper layers. This innovative cream not only stabilizes and sets the skin on a healing pathway but also communicates with the body to initiate an active healing process. The cream's anti-inflammatory properties help calm destructive inflammation, allowing the body to commence the healing process rather than exacerbating the inflammation. The benefits of this 'super melanin' cream extend beyond sun damage and chemical burns. It has the potential to be used for blisters, open sores, and even quieting the immune system. The cream's ability to absorb toxins and protect against radiation exposure opens up new possibilities for medical applications. This breakthrough in skincare technology offers hope for individuals seeking effective remedies for damaged skin. With further development and research, this 'super melanin' cream could revolutionize the way we approach skin healing and protection.

10 Nov 2023
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Project Chetna: Wearable Tech with Heart!

Mumbai-based data engineer, Akshay Ridlan, has given wearable technology a heartwarming twist with "Project Chetna." These innovative pendants feature scannable QR codes, and they're not just any fashion accessory; they're a lifeline, especially for the elderly and those with special needs. "Project Chetna" harnesses cutting-edge QR technology to create wearable pendants that store essential personal, medical, and emergency information. Akshay Ridlan's mission goes beyond mere product creation; it's about fostering awareness and compassion within communities. The inspiration behind "Project Chetna" is deeply personal. Akshay's close friend's father, who had dementia, went missing, leaving their family in anguish. This incident fueled Akshay's determination to make a difference. He emphasizes, "Every year, close to one crore children go missing in India. These are reasons enough for me to create pendants with QR tags." This isn't Akshay's first foray into QR-based pendants; earlier, he introduced QR code tags for street dogs to help feeders keep track of them. The lockdown and digitalization sparked the idea of using QR codes for human safety. The pendants now come with an additional feature. When scanned, registered family members receive a notification with the pendant's scan details, including the IP address of the scanner.  Akshay elaborates, "These pendants are designed to be a lifeline in times of crisis. When scanned, they reveal vital personal details, medical history, and emergency contact information, streamlining the process of reuniting missing individuals with their families." His vision? To build a 'Surakshit Bharat' (Safe India). For now, Akshay charges only the making cost of the lockets, at ₹250. These oval-shaped, QR-coded lockets, not larger than an inch, are encased in a metal frame. "Project Chetna" is not just about technology; it's about bringing safety, compassion, and a touch of humanity to those who need it most. Akshay Ridlan's mission to make a difference in people's lives is a shining example of innovation with a purpose.

10 Oct 2023
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5 Iconic Delights From India Find Place in the ‘100 Most Iconic Ice Creams of the World’

Bursting with countless flavors and thrilling variations, ice creams take us on an exhilarating journey of pure delight.  TasteAtlas, the renowned food and travel guide, recently lifted the curtain on its list of the "100 most iconic ice creams of the world” featuring the sweet delights along with the gelaterias or shops selling them. In a moment of pride for India, five dessert outlets from Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Mangaluru made it to the prestigious list. According to the guide, following are the top 5 iconic ice creams of India that featured on the list: 1. Death By Chocolate (Bengaluru): Corner House, established in 1982, offers this beloved flavor. TasteAtlas describes it as more than just an ice cream; it is an "indulgent sundae layered with cake, ice cream, chocolate sauce, nuts, and topped with a cherry." A sinful delight for chocolate enthusiasts! 2. Mango Ice Cream Sandwich (Mumbai): K. Rustom & Co, a renowned ice cream shop in Mumbai since 1953, is famous for its delectable ice cream sandwiches. Among the enticing varieties, the mango ice cream sandwich stands out, capturing the essence of this tropical fruit. 3. Guava Ice Cream (Mumbai): In a daring move, Mumbai-based Apsara Ice Creams introduced the guava ice cream. Small pieces of guava fruit and a tinge of spice are included in this inventive composition, which reflects the conventional Indian method of enjoying this exotic treat. 4. Tender Coconut (Mumbai): One of India's most well-known ice cream chains, Naturals, is renowned for using natural ingredients and fresh fruits. By incorporating fresh coconut into a creamy ice cream base, their distinctive Tender Coconut ice cream captures the cooling flavor of the coastal city. 5. Mangaluru's Gadbad Ice Cream: Pabba's Gadbad ice cream from Mangaluru is a visual and culinary masterpiece. A unique fusion of various ice cream flavors, fruits, nuts, and syrups, this delightful creation is a treat for the eyes and the taste buds. These iconic ice creams reflect the diverse flavors and creativity of Indian desserts. Whether you are a chocoholic, a fruit lover, or crave something innovative, India's ice cream scene has something delightful for every palate. So, if you find yourself in any of these cities, don't miss the chance to indulge in these unforgettable ice cream experiences.

25 Jul 2023
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Earless Dragon Rediscovered After 50 Years Offers Hope for Endangered Species

An earless dragon, believed to be extinct for over 50 years, has been rediscovered in Australia. The small reptile, which measures just 10 centimeters in length, was found on a remote island off the coast of Western Australia. The earless dragon, also known as the Ashmore Reef earless dragon, was last seen in 1969 and was feared to have been wiped out by habitat loss and predation by invasive species. However, a team of scientists recently discovered a small population of the species on the island of Rodda, offering new hope for the survival of the species. The discovery is significant as it highlights the importance of continued efforts to protect and preserve endangered species. The earless dragon is just one of many species that are threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and other human activities. The scientists who made the discovery are now working to better understand the ecology and behavior of the earless dragon, as well as to develop strategies for its conservation. The hope is that by studying and protecting this species, we can help to ensure the survival of other endangered species and preserve the biodiversity of our planet. The rediscovery of the earless dragon is a reminder that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, there is always hope for the future of our planet's wildlife.

29 Jun 2023
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Setting Sail: India's First International Cruise Ship Begins a New Era of Adventure

In an exciting development for India's tourism industry, Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, proudly inaugurated the launch of India's first international cruise vessel, the MV Empress. The maiden voyage of the MV Empress set sail to Sri Lanka on Monday (5 June) from Chennai, marking the commencement of the highly anticipated international cruise tourism terminal. This state-of-the-art terminal, built at a cost of Rs 17.21 crores, signifies a new era for cruise tourism and maritime trade in the country. Travelers aboard the MV Empress can embark on an unforgettable journey, with the vessel making stops at three picturesque Sri Lankan ports: Hanbantota, Trincomalee, and Kankesanturei. Offering a variety of tour packages ranging from 2 to 5 nights, the MV Empress promises a luxurious experience, allowing passengers to indulge in world-class amenities, captivating entertainment, and awe-inspiring views. Minister Sonowal emphasized the immense potential of cruise tourism in India, given the country's rich coastal heritage and cultural diversity. To further stimulate demand for cruise services, the ministry is actively working on expanding offerings along the western, southern, and eastern coasts of India.  Plans include Gujarat Pilgrimage tours, Cultural and Scenic Tours, Ayurveda Wellness Tours, and Heritage Tourism. Moreover, the development of new cruise tourism terminals in Andamans, Puducherry, and Lakshadweep circuits is underway. Additionally, the feasibility of establishing ferry circuits connecting India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar is being explored. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways anticipates a surge in cruise tourism following the overwhelming response received from 85,000 passengers who availed the domestic circuit across 37 vessels. The introduction of the international circuit is expected to amplify the region's cruise tourism business even further. The modern cruise terminal at Chennai Port spans an impressive 2,880 square meters and has the capacity to accommodate 3,000 passengers at a time. Its cutting-edge facilities and infrastructure ensure a seamless and delightful experience for all travelers. As the MV Empress embarks on its maiden voyage, India's cruise tourism industry enters a promising new phase, ready to captivate globetrotters. With the government's ambitious plans to enhance cruise tourism across the country, India is poised to become a sought-after destination for cruise enthusiasts worldwide.

6 Jun 2023
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How One State is Transforming Menstrual Hygiene into a Fundamental Right

In a groundbreaking move, the Kerala Government has recognized menstrual hygiene as a fundamental right for girls and has taken a crucial step towards ensuring their well-being. The government has announced plans to install sanitary napkin vending machines in all government schools across the state, aiming to empower girls, shatter taboos, and promote better health. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan enthusiastically shared the news on Twitter, expressing the government's commitment to this significant initiative. "Reaffirming menstrual hygiene as a fundamental right for girls, the State Government has decided to install sanitary napkin vending machines in all schools across Kerala. This project aims to break taboos...and empower our girls to soar with confidence!" the CM tweeted. The focus on menstrual hygiene doesn't stop there. The Higher Education Department has also made strides by introducing menstrual leave for students in all state universities. This progressive decision was initially implemented by the Cochin University of Science and Technology and has since been embraced by other universities. Furthermore, Labour India Public School, a private institution in Kerala, has followed suit by granting menstrual leave for its students. The Kerala Government's comprehensive approach to menstrual hygiene underscores its commitment to the well-being and empowerment of girls. By tackling taboos head-on and providing essential resources, the government is paving the way for a more inclusive and healthier society. This progressive step sets an inspiring precedent for other regions to follow, emphasizing the importance of addressing menstrual hygiene as a fundamental right for all girls.

19 May 2023
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The Railway Station That Sits Between Two States!

Bhawani Mandi, renowned as "The Orange City of Rajasthan" for its thriving orange market, has recently captured attention for its extraordinary railway station. India, known for its extensive railway network, has stations that are celebrated for their beauty and distinctive characteristics. Bhawani Mandi Railway Station stands out from the rest as it straddles the border between two states. Situated in Rajasthan's Jhalwar district and Madhya Pradesh's Mandsaur district, Bhawani Mandi Railway Station finds itself in a fascinating position. The engine of a train may be in one state, while the guard coach rests in the other, symbolizing the station's unique cross-state connection. Passengers are greeted by a captivating sight upon arrival—a platform sign that proudly displays "Rajasthan" on one side and "Madhya Pradesh" on the other, marking the interstate boundary. According to Ananth Rupanagudi, a member of the Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS), the MP-Rajasthan boundary cuts through the station, running between the booking windows and the platforms. This means that travelers must acquire tickets in Madhya Pradesh and board the train from Rajasthan. Notably, Bhawani Mandi Railway Station lies on the prominent Delhi-Mumbai rail route and serves important trains such as the Rajdhani Express and the Mumbai-Jaipur Superfast Express. Beyond its distinctive railway station, Bhawani Mandi is a captivating tourist destination. The town boasts historical and cultural significance, with the magnificent Chambal River adding to its charm.  There is another station in India -  Navapur Railway Station, that embraces its dual-state identity. It is located between the Tapi district of Gujarat and the Nandurbar district of Maharashtra. Bhawani Mandi Railway Station reflects the unity and diversity of India's railway network, where borders intertwine, seamlessly connecting regions and welcoming passengers from different states on a shared journey.

15 May 2023
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From Cow Hugs to Ghee-Making: Inside Truly Desi's Cutting-Edge Experience Centre

Truly Desi has taken a massive leap towards sustainability and eco-friendliness by launching its very first state-of-the-art Experience Centre in collaboration with Vrindavan Vedic Farms. The Experience Centre, nestled in the picturesque village of Jambhul in Maharashtra, promises visitors an immersive journey into the world of A2 dairy products and organic farming. The Experience Centre aims to promote organic farming and improve the economic prospects of farmers and rural communities in Maharashtra. It offers visitors an opportunity to learn about regenerative and biodynamic organic agricultural practices and witness them firsthand. The center will display traditional ghee-making processes, cow hugging and feeding, and participation in farming operations such as sowing, harvesting, and more. The Experience Centre also features a meditation and agnihotra center, a fertilizer preparation center, and a buying station where customers can purchase organic products on the spot. Guests can also enjoy farm-fresh supper and unwind in the tranquil farm setting. Truly Desi Co-Founders, Mohit Rathod and Rupali Kakade, emphasized that the Experience Centre aims to provide customers with the transparency they deserve, particularly with the growing need for genuine and easily accessible organic food. The Experience Center aims to foster trust and transparency in the agriculture industry, where sourcing authentic organic products can be challenging. The company offers desi dairy products, organic fruits and vegetables, and certified organic products. Vrindavan Vedic Farm currently has around 100 cows and generates electricity through its Biogas facility. They produce their own organic fertilizer in-house, which is free of chemicals and manufactured from cow dung, urine, biogas slurry, and bacterial cultures. The Experience Center is a significant step towards promoting sustainable agriculture and providing consumers with authentic and easily accessible organic products. Truly Desi and Vrindavan Vedic Farm's collaborative efforts are sure to make a positive impact on the agriculture industry and benefit farmers and rural communities in Maharashtra.

30 Apr 2023
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The World's First Asian King Vulture Breeding Program Aims to Reverse Population Collapse

Uttar Pradesh is making a groundbreaking effort to save the critically endangered Asian King Vulture with the world's first conservation and breeding center of its kind. Set in the picturesque Maharajganj district, the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre (JCBC) is a cutting-edge facility that aims to protect and revive the dwindling population of these majestic birds by breeding them in captivity and releasing them back into their natural habitat. The JCBC is spread over 1.5 hectares and includes several aviaries, such as breeding and holding aviaries, nursery aviaries for juveniles, hospital and recovery aviaries, a food processing center, and an incubation center. The center, valued at approximately Rs 15 crore, is a state-of-the-art facility that will provide a safe environment for the vultures to thrive. The Asian King Vulture has been listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List since 2007 due to the widespread use of diclofenac in veterinary medicine in India. This has led to a population collapse in recent years. The JCBC aims to breed at least 40 vultures in captivity over 15 years to ensure the sustainable conservation of the species. Veterinary usage of diclofenac has since been banned in India to prevent further population decline. The first phase of the project included the construction of the center's infrastructure in 2021. The project's second phase entails breeding vultures, and the facility will initially have ten vultures available for breeding. The Bombay Natural History Society has joined with the forest department to provide technical guidance. A male vulture may be captured from the wild and brought to the JCBC for breeding reasons because they are known to be better at caring for the chicks. The establishment of the JCBC is a major milestone for the conservation of the Asian King Vulture. With the center's state-of-the-art facilities and technical guidance from experts, the JCBC is poised to become a global model for conservation and breeding centers. This is great news for the conservation of the Asian King Vulture and a step forward in preserving our planet's biodiversity.

18 Apr 2023
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India's First Hybrid Sounding Rocket Launched by Students is a Milestone Achievement

India has made a giant leap towards space technology with the successful launch of its first hybrid-sounding rocket by private players. The rocket was launched from Pattipulam village in the Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu. But what makes this launch even more special is that it was designed and constructed by a team of 3,500 students from government schools across the country.  The student team, which included 200 students from the fishermen community in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry, 100 students from tribal communities across India, and 60 from Tamil Nadu, built a student satellite launch vehicle (rocket) and 150 PICO satellite research experiment cubes that contained different payloads. The project was completed by Martin Foundation in association with Dr APJ Abdul Kalam International Foundation and Space Zone India, and was called Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Satellite Launch Vehicle Mission 2023. The rocket mission was sponsored by Mumbai and Nagpur municipal corporations, who contributed to the project by sponsoring 20 and 10 students respectively. The students involved in the project not only learnt about satellite technology but also gained knowledge in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The launch marks a significant achievement in the Indian space technology industry and opens up opportunities for more such programmes to benefit students in the future. The success of this project shows that India’s young minds have the potential to contribute significantly to space research and development. Martin Foundation has expressed their willingness to continue such programmes in the future, giving more students the opportunity to learn and participate in space sciences. The students’ hard work and dedication, guided by professionals, has paid off and deserves applause for their tremendous efforts.

5 Mar 2023
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Yoga Enthusiasts Make History by Entering Guinness Book of World Record Records

The Akshar Yoga Research and Development Centre has made history by entering the Guinness Book of World Records on February 11, 2023, as its members along with many other participants from all over the world performed three yoga poses. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the yoga practitioners who participated in the Mandala Yoga Festival in Bengaluru. Over 500 people participated in the event, including police personnel from Karnataka State Police, underprivileged children, and differently-abled children. The event which was held at Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence saw participants from different parts of the world, including the USA, Japan, Korea, Dubai, London, France, and Sri Lanka, all coming together to create history. The renowned yoga and spiritual teacher Himalayan Siddha Akshar expressed his joy and delight at this extraordinary accomplishment. He claimed that in order to accomplish this noteworthy feat, every participant undertook demanding preparation for roughly two months before to the event. The three yoga positions,  Vashishtasana (Side Plank Pose), Ushtrasana (Camel Pose), and Halasana (Plough Pose) which ranged in length from 45 to 90 seconds, demonstrated the participants' strength both physically and mentally. The Akshar Yoga Centre has previously entered the Guinness World Record book for performing the Dhanurasana or Bow Pose for two minutes with 285 yoga practitioners. This accomplishment shows the centre's dedication to promoting yoga and the physical and mental well-being it provides. This achievement serves as an inspiration to all yoga enthusiasts and demonstrates the potential of yoga in improving physical and mental health.

15 Feb 2023
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India Achieves Extraordinary Success of Saving Tigers From Extinction

It's a grand success story for India as thanks to the extraordinary success of saving tigers from extinction, they now make up 70% of the world's tiger population. The Center informed the Supreme Court on Friday that the population of big cats is growing by 6% annually, offsetting natural losses. India doubled its tiger population in 2018, four years ahead of plan, according to the St. Petersburg Declaration on the protection of tigers, TOI reported. The top Tiger States of India (by Tiger population) are Madhya Pradesh (526); Karnataka (524); Uttrakhand (442). The number of tiger reserves has increased to 53, totaling about 76,000 square kilometers. In UP, a brand-new tiger reserve called Ranipur Tiger Reserve has been established. The country is home to 2967 tigers. According to a statement, the nation's natural ecosystem serves as the basis for scientific management of the species, and artificial breeding procedures are not encouraged there. The effectiveness of the process is clearly shown by the results of the quadrennial all-tiger estimations conducted in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018. Tigers are classified as being in the 'Endangered' category on the IUCN's Red List of Threatened Species. In Asia, tigers can be found in 12 regional tiger conservation landscapes (TCLs). Six of these are global priority TCLs for long-term tiger conservation significance, and together they account for more than 70% of the global genetic diversity of the tiger species.

30 Jan 2023
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A Fitting Tribute to Warriors: Anadaman Islands Named After Paramvir Chakra Awardees

In a fitting tribute to the warriors of our nation who put their life at stake while guarding the frontiers of the country,  Prime Minister Narendra Modi named 21 unnamed Andaman and Nicobar islands after 21 recipients of the Param Vir Chakra today through video conference.  The islands were named on the occasion of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's 126th birthday. Speaking on the occasion, The Prime Minister said that future generations would draw inspiration from the islands. He added that although efforts had been made to undermine Netaji's contribution to the freedom struggle, the entire nation—from Delhi and Bengal to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands—is today honoring the great hero by conserving the history and culture that are connected to him. The largest unnamed island bears the name of Major Somnath Sharma, the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, who died in combat on November 3, 1947, spurning off Pakistani infiltrators close to Srinagar Airport. During the virtual ceremony's opening, Prime Minister Modi remarked that it is in the region of Andaman where the tricolor was hoisted for the first time and where India's first independent government was established. As It is also the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Bose, this day is recognized nationwide as Parakram Diwas. Ajay Devgan, who played the role of Manoj Pandey, and Sidharth Malhotra, who played Vikram Batra expressed their gratitude to PM Modi for honoring the "real heroes of our nation."

24 Jan 2023
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Excitement is in the Air As Lion Spotted for the First Time in Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat

The first sighting of a big cat in the state's Porbandar district's Barda Wildlife Sanctuary since Independence has given the Gujarat forest department's efforts to create new habitats for Asiatic lions a boost, officials said on Friday. According to Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Nityanand Srivastava, the three-and-a-half-year-old male lion entered the sanctuary about two days ago after spending some time nearby Porbandar town and feeding on livestock. The lion, which had been chased away by other males a few months ago, was now close to Porbandar town after slipping into a wooded area close to the coastal town of Madhavpur. The lion was radio-collared by the forest department a few months ago close to Porbandar town to track its whereabouts, according to Srivastav. The lion’s movement in the Barda sanctuary is being monitored. Lions can establish a second home in Barda thanks to the abundance of herbivores there, including antelopes and wild boar. Additionally, since 2013, mining has been prohibited within a one-kilometer radius of the sanctuary, a senior forest officer stated. The Barda Wildlife Sanctuary covers a total of 192 km and is located about 100 kilometers from Gir National Park and Sanctuary, the only remaining home of Asiatic lions.

21 Jan 2023
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World’s First Palm Leaf Manuscript Museum Is a Treasure Trove of History and Culture

The world's first palm leaf manuscript museum which opened in Kerala last week is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region through its collection of ancient palm leaf manuscripts. Palm leaf manuscripts are texts that have been inscribed on the dried fronds of the talipot palm, which is native to India and Southeast Asia. These manuscripts have been used for centuries to record a wide range of information, including religious texts, historical chronicles, scientific treatises, and literary works. Accounts of the famous Battle of Colachel, in which the brave Travancore monarch Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma (1729–58) fought the Dutch East India Company at Colachel, 20 kilometers northwest of Kanyakumari in present-day Tamil Nadu, are among the manuscripts kept at the museum. With this victory in 1741, Dutch expansion in India came to a halt, and Marthanda Varma's Travancore became the first Asian kingdom to thwart any European power's plans for expansion. Located in Thiruvananthapuram, the museum, which opened last week, contains 187 manuscripts that tell stories totally based on primary sources. These are records that were written on palm leaves that had been treated and cured and were consigned to the corners of the records rooms. After painstakingly sorting through a large stock of haphazardly stored 1.5 crore palm-leaf records from all around the state, the archival material for the first phase was selected. With its eight galleries that include movies and information-gathering QR code technologies, the facility is enticing both general visitors and specialized scholars. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations to learn from and enjoy, nd is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of southern India.

10 Jan 2023
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The Epic Journey: Exploring India on the MV Ganga, the World’s Longest River Cruise

India has a huge potential for river tourism and the exciting news is that the MV Ganga Vilas cruise is a step towards unlocking it. On January 13, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off MV Ganga, the world’s longest river cruise from Varanasi. Union Minister of ports, shipping, and waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal said that the luxury cruise will cover a distance of more than 3,200 km across 27 river systems in 5 states in India and Bangladesh. The MV Ganga Vilas vessel is 62 meters long, and 12 meters wide, and sails well with a 1.4-meter draft. It features three decks, 18 suites, a capacity of 36 passengers, and all the amenities to give travelers a pleasant and lavish experience. An official statement states that the 51-day cruise is scheduled to stop at 50 popular tourist destinations, including World Heritage Sites, National Parks, river Ghats, and important cities like Patna in Bihar, Sahibganj in Jharkhand, Kolkata in West Bengal, Dhaka in Bangladesh, and Guwahati in Assam. The ship is built with sustainability concepts at its core and has technologies for noise reduction and pollution-free operations. 32 Swiss tourists will enjoy the Varanasi to Dibrugarh excursion on the MV Ganga Vilas' inaugural trip. The MV Ganga Vilas is scheduled to arrive in Dibrugarh on March 1st, 2023. The MV Ganga's itineraries take passengers through some of the most stunning and culturally significant regions of India. Passengers can visit ancient temples, palaces, and holy sites, as well as experience traditional Indian culture and cuisine.  Overall, the MV Ganga offers a unique and immersive way to experience the beauty and diversity of India, making it a must-do for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

9 Jan 2023
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This Young Man Cracked IIT but Didn’t Tell His Family as He Was Determined To Join the Military

Imagine one’s joy in clearing one of the toughest exams, the IIT entrance. However, cracking the IIT entrance didn’t appeal much to Gaurav Yadav as his dream was to join the military. Pursuing his dream, he appeared and cleared the NDA entrance twice, but didn’t make it through the interview rounds.  Yadav persisted and appeared again for the NDA examination which is a gateway for youngsters looking to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Once, the exam, interview, and medical tests are cleared, the candidate undergoes three years of rigorous training at the National Defence Academy. Yadav’s persistent efforts finally paved the way for a career in the military. The path was not easy as he struggled to handle the pressures of the arduous training, yet he managed to achieve this extraordinary feat. He received the President's Gold Medal during the NDA's Passing Out Parade on November 30. In addition, he commanded the parade, an honor he never anticipated. Yadav’s brother works for the Indian Army. With the news of Gaurav’s induction in the Navy, his parents couldn't be more elated. Yadav and the other cadets are about to begin their final year of pre-commissioning training. In Uttarakhand, at the Indian Military Academy, those who desire to join the Army will receive their training. The cadets desirous of joining the Navy and Airforce will receive their training in the Indian Naval Academy in Kerala and the Air Force Academy in Telangana respectively.

5 Dec 2022
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How an AP Farmer Scripted a Success Story With Rain-Fed Tomatoes

Ravindra Reddy, a farmer from Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh was devastated when he suffered huge losses from groundnut cultivation. He possesses 10 acres of dry land and was seeking an alternative that would yield him good produce and profits. He decided to switch over to rain-fed tomato crops. In this method, the good quality tomato seeds are chosen and nurtured in a nursery. The tomato saplings are planted in the fields whenever there is rain. There is a difference between the normal tomatoes and the rain-fed ones. The non-rain fed tomatoes do not last long while the rain-fed ones can be stored for a long time and are naturally stronger. With Reddy's efforts and guidance, many farmers switched over to rain-fed tomato cultivation. They reaped a rich harvest. However, the price at the local market was only Rs 10 per kilo of tomato. A friend from Chennai advised him to send tomatoes to the Andaman as he would get a good price. The friend introduced Ravindra to traders who purchased tomatoes from farmers and sold them to people in Andaman. They fixed the rate at Rs 40 per kg for the tomatoes cultivated in drylands. Ravindra sorted raw tomatoes from his produce and packed them in wooden sandboxes to be despatched to Chennai and from there to Andaman. He reaped rich dividends and became a source of inspiration to many other farmers in his village.

10 Dec 2019
Good News

This Village Celebrates Newborn Girls in an Amazing Way

The birth of a girl child is looked down open in many places in India even today. That is why the wonderful way in which the residents of Piplantri village in Rajasthan celebrates newborn girls is an important lesson for all. The villagers of Piplantri plant 111 trees whenever a girl child is born in the village. This amazing practice was initiated by former village leader Shyam Sundar Paliwal in memory of his daughter who passed away when she was young. Beautiful Tradition The planting of trees helps to enhance the local environment and ensures sustainability for the future generation. So far, a quarter of a million trees have been planted in Piplantri. The planting of trees has fostered harmony in the village and kindled a renewed adoration for little girls.  Speaking to Hindustan Times, Gehrilal Balai who planted 111 trees last year remarked that he experiences great joy in looking after the saplings as much as lulling his little daughter to sleep. Fund For The Girl When a girl is born, villagers of Piplantri get together and raise a sort of ‘trust’. Parents contribute one-third of the sum of Rs 31,000 and the money is set aside as a twenty-year fund for the girl. In return for the trust, parents sign a legal affidavit that the girl will be married only after she completes 18 years and she will be given proper education. The affidavit also mentions that the 111 trees will be taken care of by them. This amazing tradition of planting trees for newborn girls has not only eliminated the stigma around the girl child but also improved the local environment and ecosystem of the village. Image Source: Snaplant.com

19 Nov 2019
Good News

Know How a Railway Employee Brightens Up the Future of Thousands of Children

Sushil Meena was disappointed to see young children working as labourers in food stalls, in factories and even as rag pickers. He realized that without access to education, these children can never get job opportunities that will help them to lead a better life. Parents of economically backward kids couldn’t realize that by engaging their children in working to earn income, they are depriving them of education and better opportunities in life. Nirbhed Foundation Sushil Meena along with a friend Taruna Vidhay, an officer in a national bank founded the Nirbhed foundation to provide food and education to underprivileged children. Its aim is to empower children of economically backward sections with education to make them self-reliant and employable so that they can enjoy a healthy, dignified and sustainable quality of life. There was a steady increase in the inflow of students and they currently have 3500 children in all the four centres including UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and Rajasthan. Funds For The Foundation One may wonder, how a railway employee can manage food and teachers for all children. Sushil said the primary funds comprise of the salaries of core team members and remaining funding comes from a crowdfunding organization called Milaap, which provides money for the food requirements. The foundation doesn’t accept cash/monitory support from individuals. Anything in kind like stationery, raw food, packed food, cooked food, clothes, toys etc according to the need of children are always welcome. While most of us would like to enjoy our leisure time after a day’s work, people like Sushil inspire us to think inclusively and serve selflessly. Image Source: Education- The Better India

14 Nov 2019
Good News

A Sustainable Business, That Upscales Discarded Shoes and Provides Them to the Needy Is Gaining Momentum Through GreenSole

Two friends who bonded over running couldn’t have imagined that their simple idea would snowball into a big business that would not only benefit a large number of people but also will be good for the environment. Ramesh Dhami and Shriyans Bhandari trained under a common coach. Hardcore running would wear out their shoes very fast and they had to discard their shoes every few months. Ramesh who came from a less privileged family didn’t wear footwear for most part of his life. One day, finding that the soles of the worn-out shoes are in good condition he fixed rubber trips to it and transformed them into slippers. Every year about 35 crore pairs of shoes are discarded globally adding to a landfill; while according to the World Health Organization, about 1.5 billion people go shoeless and pick up soil-transmitted infections. When Bhandari saw his friend recycle a discarded shoe into a usable slipper, an idea clicked in his mind. After a few brainstorming sessions, the two friends came up with the technology and skill to refurbish discarded shoes which they then donated to the needy. In a month, they were selected among the top 30 innovators by the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, Ahmedabad. They also won many other design and sustainability competitions including the IIT-Bombay Eureka competition. They won a few lakhs in prize money with which they registered their company GreenSole and bagged their first order from real estate firm JLL as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR). Then, there was no looking back. They secured many more orders and now they upcycle about 70,000 shoes every year. Thus the duo who had zero experience in the footwear industry is now sought by organizations for their excellent product that provides environmental, social and economic benefits. Image Source: Entrepreneur  

10 Oct 2019
Good News

Find Out Why Kids With Disabilities Are Excited About This New Park in Haryana

Kids are always very happy and thrilled to visit parks and enjoy playing on swings, slides and running around, playing with friends. However, kids with disabilities are unable to enjoy every game or feature of a park. Just as increased awareness towards an inclusive society spreads, Haryana has now built a park dedicated especially for differently-abled children. A Unique Park The Town Park in Panchkula is specially designed for the convenience of disabled kids. The park also has trampolines, roller beds, basket spinner, xylophones, drums, wobbly baskets, slides with various tunnels and mounds for the kids. Speech therapists, physiotherapists and vocational trainers have also been hired to be present in the park and provide assistance to the disabled kids when needed. CSR initiative The park has been funded by the Reliance Foundation under its corporate and social responsibility (CSR) initiative. It is built on an area of six acres and at a total cost of Rs 65 lakhs. Almost all equipment and games of the park are designed in such a way that it can be easily used by disabled kids. The safety of the kids has also been taken under consideration. This park has helped to spread joy among kids and this brilliant idea should certainly be emulated by other states so that more and more differently-abled children are included.

3 Oct 2019
Good News

Mumbai’s Top-Ranked Squash Player Who Lost Home in Bldg Crash Rings in 16th Birthday With Cops and Firefighters

Aishwarya Khubchandani ushered in her sixteenth birthday in a novel way by distributing cake to firefighters and cops who are stationed round the clock to guard the crash site of a building in Khar, Mumbai, the portion of which came down a fortnight ago. Aishwarya is Mumbai’s top-ranked squash player who has represented India in the Asian junior individual squash championship for four years in a row. A week ago, on a fateful day, Aishwarya’s parents had stepped out and she was at home with a domestic help. They both had a lucky escape when a portion of her building crashed and they managed to run out of the house in the nick of time. She is currently staying with her parents at a relative’s residence. Since the day of the crash, officers from the police and fire department are standing guard at the site as the rubble contains valuables of residents. The portions of the building that crashed have been demolished and the work of razing the structure is in progress. A fire official was touched by her gesture and said that he and his colleagues were happy that their efforts have been acknowledged. He further said that such acts of appreciation motivate them to do their best.  Her thoughtful act proved lucky for her as she was able to retrieve her passport from the debris. She needed the passport to appear for exams that would secure her admission to colleges in the United States. Firefighters and cops sometimes risk their lives to save helpless people. Although risk-taking is part of their job, little acts of acknowledgment will give them happiness and encouragement to keep up their good work.  

1 Oct 2019
Good News

Indian Air Force Gets a Boost As DRDO Hands Over Netra (AEW&CS) System

The Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) on Wednesday, handed over the second Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&CS) system to the Indian Air Force. Termed as India’s eyes in the sky, Netra gives a boost to India’s airborne surveillance capability. Modern Warfare The AESA radar is indigenously developed by DRDO and is mounted on an Embraer 145 aircraft. It was handed over to the Western Air Command Chief at the Bhatinda airbase. In present times, when countries like Pakistan and China are strengthening their defence capabilities, this aircraft will help to address India’s capability asymmetry with these countries. In fact, it was the Netra system that earlier helped India plan and executes the Balakot airstrikes deep within Pakistani territory. Strengthening Defensive Capability India already has three Israeli Falcon AEWACS systems in the IAF fleet and this Netra aircraft will help to complement them. There are reports that India is planning to procure  2 more AWACS systems as it is estimated that India will need at least 20 of such surveillance systems to develop adequate defensive and offensive capability in the Eastern and Western fronts which are guarded by the IAF. Image Source: Rediff.com

12 Sep 2019
Good News

Pune Scientists Develop Fastest Cancer-Detecting Technique in the World

Pune Scientists' pathbreaking invention of technology to detect cancer will be a boon to mankind as it is the fastest method in the world to diagnose cancer. The ‘OncoDiscover’ technology has been developed using the ‘liquid biopsy’ technique. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, the national regulatory body for pharmaceuticals and medical devices has given its approval to the groundbreaking technology. The Scientists It took great efforts on the part of a team of scientists led by Dr Jayant Khandare and Aravindan Vasudevan to develop this technology which is expected to revolutionize the early diagnosis and management of cancer patients in India. Dr Khandare is a renowned scientist who was awarded the Alexander von Humboldt Experienced Researcher Fellowship for his research in macromolecular chemistry in 2011. First Of Its Kind Technique Khandare and his team faced numerous technological challenges but managed to solve them to detect circulating tumour cells (CTCs) from lung, breast, colorectal, head and neck cancers.  It is very difficult to spot CTCs as their count is as low as one in millions of other blood cells. It is similar to finding a needle in a haystack. However, the team has indigenously developed the more specific, highly rapid and efficient cancer diagnostic technology in detecting the early spread of cancers. Dr Khandare informed that the test is now available in Pune at the OncoDiscover Liquid Biopsy Technology lab for cancer patients in India.  

25 Aug 2019
Good News

Valiant IAF Officer Abhinandan Varthaman to Get Vir Chakra Today

On the occasion of Independence Day, Abhinandan Varthaman will be bestowed the Vir Chakra which is the third-highest wartime gallantry award. The five pilots of the Mirage-2000 fighter jets will also be awarded the Vayu Sena medal for gallantry who dropping bombs on the camps of the terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Pakistan's Balakot. War Like Situation Tensions had risen between India and Pakistan over the Pulwama attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 14 February. On 27 February a fight ensued between the two countries over the attack. Abhinandan who was flying a MiG-21 Bison jet shot down a Pakistani F16 which was hailed as the first-ever kill of an F16 by a MiG-21 Bison as F16 is considered to be a more modern fighter plane. Abhinandan’s jet was also shot down and he was captured by the Pakistani security forces. Exemplary Bravery and Composure After the fearless fight over the Line Of Control (LOC) and shooting down an enemy aircraft, Abhinandan showed a great deal of composure when he was in captivity for which he was praised by politicians, strategic affairs experts, celebrities and the general public. Pakistan came under pressure and released the brave warrior after three days. The fight was triggered when the IAF dropped bombs in Balakot in response to the Pulwama terrorist attack which resulted in the deaths of at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel on 14 February. Abhinandan Varthaman had become the face of the military confrontation between the two countries. Lots of Abhinandan to the gallant hero. Image Source: Janamtv National

14 Aug 2019
Good News

What A Wonderful Way To Preserve Indian Folk Music

Dapu Khan, a 58-year-old Rajasthani folk artist, what so unique about him...One of the world's oldest instruments the kamaicha, he used to play at the entrance of Jaisalmer Fort till he met two graduates of the Berklee School of Music, Abhinav Agrawal and Satyam Sangwan and lawyer Shuchi Roy a few years ago who changed Khan's life. They play a major role in his journey from the gates of Jaisalmer forts to his performances not only across the country but also in Germany and US too.  The trio has designed a multi-track mixing studio where they record Khan's music, provide English translation of his songs, helped him in making his website, creating his business cards and musical contracts.  They run a non-profit, Anahad Foundation to preserve Indian folk music. They have created a platform where artists can independently create and get their own employment. Till now they have around 122 artists in 25 groups and have created more than 50 music videos. In this way, an artists income has really increased up to seven times compared to what he used to get. The non-profit started in Jaisalmer but are now expanding to Punjab, Jharkhand Chattisgarh and other places. Hats off to the Trio friends for their unique thought.

25 Mar 2018
Good News

Indian Kids’ Art Feature In NASA’s Calendar

NASA’s 2018 Commercial Crew Program Calendar Art Contest saw over 3,000 entries from 193 countries and India has a reason to be proud as two artworks of students from a school in Tamil Nadu have been selected. Kaviya BJ and K Selva Sreejith,  both 11 years old and students of Shree Vidhya Mandhir, Pushpathur in Palani are amongst the twelve winners whose entries adorn the pages of the calendar. Various themes were set for the calendar including the International Space Station, astronauts and growing food in space. Selva and Kaviya fashioned their works on the themes ‘what would you take from home’ and ‘space food,’ respectively.

18 Jan 2018
Good News

International Mountain Day Observed In Uttarakhand

The International Mountain Day (IMD) was celebrated in many parts of Uttarakhand on Monday by conducting nature walks, mountain biking, exhibitions and talks on the Himalayas. The Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST) organized R S Tolia Memorial lecture on the theme — ‘Mountains under pressure, climate, hunger and migration’. The Central Himalayan Institute for Nature and Applied Research (CHINAR), an NGO (working in the mountain regions of India for environmental sustainability and livelihood of the mountain community) and Uttarakhand state’s tourism department jointly held grand celebrations in Bageshwar district. Environmentalist Anil Joshi stressed that everybody should join hands for the conservation of the mountain ecology.” Another activist J P Maithani and founder of Aaagas federation, a grass root voluntary organization working in the central Himalayan region asserted that local communities should be involved for sustainable development in the mountains. Environmentalist, Chandi Prasad Bhatt delivered the second R S Tolia Memorial lecture at the regional science centre. He spoke on the topic, Himalaya- sensitivity, threats and challenges’. He stated that many environmental Acts have been passed, but they need to be implemented at the ground level.

11 Dec 2017
Good News

The Hillock At Vendallur is Brimming With History

Over the past one year, a small hill at Vendallur in Malappuram, Kerala has been drawing historians. They are surprised by the rich repository of history that dates back to prehistoric times The presence of megalithic post-hole burial cists and petroglyphs dating back to the Iron Age were found during excavations at the hill. Apart from this, hundreds of clay dolls from the late medieval period provides evidence that there had been a continuous human settlement for more than three millennia or more. A three-day comprehensive field study will be done from November 28-30 by as many as 125 researchers including eminent historians. They will collect evidence on the continuous human settlement from the pre-historic megalithic period to the later medieval period and right up to the present. P Sivadasan, head of history department of Calicut University, who had led the studies said that the hillock at Vendallur could become a turning point in the historiography of the ancient and medieval history of the state. It was during the renovation work of Parambath Kavu Bhagavathi temple, that evidence of prehistoric settlement was found. Sivadasan informed that the invaluable historical evidence discovered from the site call for a detailed excavation by experts and the findings will be submitted to agencies like Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and state archaeological department for further action.  

26 Nov 2017
Good News

Telengana’s Harita Haram flag flies high in Antartica

Telengana is hosting ‘Haritha Haram’, a green festival of planting saplings and it is now echoing in Antartica, thanks to thirty-two-year-old Raghunandan Vadla from Begumpet, who reached Antarctica in March this year as part of an international expedition and also took the Haritha Haram flag to the faraway and frigid place. Vadla, an engineering graduate said that he decided to carry the flag to Antartica as he wanted the world to know about Telangana's unique programme of planting crores of saplings. Representatives of 32 countries had participated in this expedition which was organized by Robert Swan - the first person to walk to both North and South Pole. Vadla's efforts were not missed by IT minister K T Rama Rao, who tweeted his appreciation for the Hyderabadi's attempts to popularize the state's initiative. Vadla said that it is imperative for people to acknowledge the threat to our planet and make sustained efforts together to save it.  Vadla, on his part, is preparing a module that would help students understand the graveness of the situation and how they can pitch in to fight global warming. About his experience in the Antartic, Vadla said that he was very concerned when he saw huge ice blocks melting in the water. He stressed that global warming is a major issue.  

13 Jul 2017
Good News

 A family cause for nature

This nature-loving family living in Belapur has come to the rescue of many thirsty birds this summer. The Bhandare family of four living in Belapur are doing a bit on their own to help the thirsty birds in their vicinity by arranging for small water holders at regular intervals. Gajanan and his wife Archana with their sons Kshitij and Kaustubh have started this mission since the summer has take toll over the state. Bhandares are putting up water holders made of used bottles in Belapur jungle and Parsik mountain range. As of now this family has put up more than 60 holders. What interesting is the bottle used for water holders have been picked up from the jungle itself and in a way the family is also trying to clean up the place adored with nature.  Instead of wondering about what could be done during vacation, the family aims utilise this time of the year in a novel way and think about the habitat around us. Many bird species live in the forest like bulbul, mynas, golden orioles. These birds can now have sigh of relief in this scorching heat as they can drink water from these specially designed bowls of water filled by Bhandare family. The bowls are set up at 4km stretch from the foothill connecting Belapure and Khargar service road. It connects tribal hamlets like Phanaswadi and Chaphewadi. By keeping water bowls at regular intervals it will help birds from getting dehydrated in summer.  Bhandares informed that as of now they have put up around 60 such water bottles and fill them up daily during our morning and evening walks. They will soon increase the number of such bottles to cover the entire hill.  The family has another plan to make water available for birds— by digging small pits, cover them with plastic sheets and pour water in them. Their next big challenge is to make the mountain range plastic free.

22 Apr 2017
Good News

From May 14, petrol pumps will be shut on every Sunday

To conserve oil, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ordered to keep fuel outlets shut on every Sunday in eight states. Suresh Kumar, an executive committee member of the consortium of Indian petroleum dealers said that government had made this decision a year back. But the oil marketing companies had asked the government to rethink over the decision. The decision is made over Mr. Narendra Modi’s call on conservation of oil in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme. From May 14, outlets in states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra and Haryana would be shut on Sundays for entire day. This accounts to about 20,000 outlets closed on Sundays. On holidays, the fuel outlet will have one staff member to provide fuel in emergency situations. On implementation of this decision, oil companies will suffer a loss of about Rs. 150 crore due to no operation of outlets on Sundays. Discussions are going on over the issue of Oil marketing companies hiking the margins. It is a difficult task to get the support of Oil marketing companies over the decision but the government has promised successful efforts and negotiations with them for the same.      

20 Apr 2017
Good News

Anandan Gunasekaran wins silver at World Para GP

Anandan Gunasekaran of the Indian Army was posted in Kupwara district of J&K. In 2008, while searching for live mines, he took a wrong step and the mine beneath blew his left leg and injured him seriously. He had to undergo a series of operations in Delhi and Pune and later attended a rigorous rehabilitation programme. On Tuesday, all his pain and struggle were replaced by feelings of joy and jubilation as he won a silver medal in the men's 400m World Para Athletics grand Prix in Dubai. He  clocked 55.27 sec for the silver medal, behind Saudi Arabia's Nour Alsana, who won the gold with his timing of 54.76 sec. Another Indian, Pramod Kumar finished the race in 58.31 sec, to bring bronze for the country. Anandan runs with a blade below his left knee. He had been training at the Army Sports Institute in Pune since he shifted base from his unit in Bengaluru last year. Anandan said that he was thrilled to win his biggest medal so far. Anandan first ran with a wooden leg in the Mumbai Marathon's 2.5km run in the disabled category in 2012 in which he won the  first prize. With the internet, he learnt about blades and his unit imported a blade from Iceland in 2014 and it gave him wings. Two months after getting the blade, he won 100m gold and 200m silver at the International Grand Prix in Malaysia. With his win on Tuesday, Anandan has qualified for the International Paralympic Committee organized World Para athletics championships to be held from July 14 in London.

23 Mar 2017
Good News

Wanderlust

The Call Of Vitamin Sea: Radhanagar Beach Ranks Among Asia’s Top 5!

When you think of stunning beaches in India, places like Goa and Kerala probably pop into your mind first. But guess what? There’s a hidden slice of paradise that just got the recognition it truly deserves! Nestled in the breathtaking Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Radhanagar Beach has officially been ranked the fifth-best beach in all of Asia, according to TripAdvisor’s 2025 list. That’s right, this dreamy coastline on Havelock Island is now rubbing shoulders with some of the most iconic beach destinations in the world!For context, Banana Beach in Phuket, Thailand, took the top spot, followed by White Beach in the Philippines, Haeundae Beach in South Korea, and Kelingking Beach in Indonesia. But let’s focus on why Radhanagar Beach is truly special and why it needs to be on your bucket list ASAP!Pristine Beauty, Straight Out Of A MovieThe moment you step onto Radhanagar Beach, you’ll feel like you’ve walked into a postcard. Stretching for about two kilometers, this scenic haven is beautifully maintained with strict conservation efforts in place, keeping it unspoiled and clean. Imagine soft powdery white sand, lush tropical greenery, and crystal-clear blue waters—yeah, it’s basically paradise.Lost in Blue: Crystal Clear Water Have you ever seen water so blue that it looks like an Instagram filter in real life? Well, Radhanagar Beach gives you exactly that! The waves are gentle, and the shallow waters near the shore make it perfect for swimming, even if you’re a beginner. The clean, untouched coastline ensures that every dip in the ocean feels fresh and rejuvenating.If just soaking up the sun isn’t enough for you, there’s plenty of thrill and adventure waiting beneath the waves! Havelock Island is famous for its incredible marine life, making it one of the top destinations for scuba diving and snorkeling. Just a short trip from Radhanagar Beach is Elephant Beach, another hot spot for underwater exploration. Swim alongside vibrant coral reefs, spot exotic fish, and discover the mesmerizing world hidden below the surface.Sunsets That Will Steal Your HeartIf breathtaking sunsets leave you spellbound, then Radhanagar Beach is going to blow your mind. As the day winds down, the sky transforms into a masterpiece of deep violets, fiery oranges, soft pinks, and golden hues. It’s hands down one of the best sunset spots in India, and trust us, watching the sun dip below the horizon here is an experience you won’t forget.If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, Radhanagar Beach has got you covered. Whether it’s a peaceful sunset stroll, a cozy picnic on the sand, or even a candlelight dinner by the waves, this place sets the mood for love and tranquility. Many resorts and local operators even offer private beachside experiences, so if you’re planning a honeymoon or a special surprise, this is the place to be!The Secret’s Out! Why This Beach Is A Must-Visit!Unlike the crowded beaches of Goa or the over-touristy spots in Kerala, Radhanagar Beach remains refreshingly untouched. It’s clean, peaceful, and still retains its raw, natural charm. Plus, with a diverse marine ecosystem, it’s an absolute dream for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.So, whether you’re craving an adventurous diving trip, a soul-soothing beach escape, or a romantic retreat, Radhanagar Beach is calling your name.With its newly earned title as one of Asia’s top five beaches, there’s never been a better time to visit this tropical paradise. Pack your bags, book that trip, and get ready to experience India’s most stunning beach in all its glory. Because this hidden gem in India is the beach trip you’ve been craving! 

21 Mar 2025
Wanderlust

Bhandardara: The Undiscovered Monsoon Gem Outside of Mumbai

Hidden away in the picturesque Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, Bhandardara is a treasure of the Western Ghats. The hill station is surrounded by lush flora and immaculate lakes, with the majestic Sahyadri mountain ranges providing a stunning backdrop. Mumbai is 185 km away, Pune is 161 km away, and Nashik is 72 km away. The large reservoir known as Arthur Lake, created by the Wilson Dam, is the primary draw of Bhandardara. Its serene waters create a captivating vista as they reflect the nearby hills and woodlands.Marvelous in its engineering, the dam offers breathtaking views of the valley below. Nestled on the banks of the River Pravara, the hill station of Bhandardara attracts naturalists from far and wide. They come to witness the stunning Randha Falls, where the Pravara River plummets dramatically from a height. The monsoon season transforms the landscape, giving rise to the aptly named Umbrella Falls, known for its distinctive round shape. Tons Of Scenic Beauty Awaits! (Source: Google Images)  Historical Background and Legends Revolving Around ~ Legend has it that the sage Agastya spent a year in meditation here. The gods granted him a stream of the Ganga, now known as the River Pravara, as a reward for his penance. Trekking trails go through Bhandardara, and forts are scattered throughout the area. Trekkers particularly like climbing Maharashtra's highest peak, the well-known Mount Kalsubai. Rich in vegetation, the hilltop forts of Ratangad and Harishchandragad provide expansive views. At the summit of Ratangad Fort is a unique natural rock formation that overlooks the valley below and has a hollow that resembles an arch. In addition, Bhandardara is a well-liked destination for travelers heading to Shirdi and Nashik. Visitors looking for a getaway from the city are drawn to it because of its lush surroundings and temperate climate, which make it perfect for hiking and nature hikes all year round. Bhandardara enthralls with its untainted appeal whether you're boating on Arthur Lake, hiking historic forts, or just taking in the peace. Mount Kalsubai, Maharashtra's highest peak at 1,600 meters, is also located there. An important part of Bhandardara's history is the Wilson Dam, built in 1910 as part of a British irrigation project for the region. It led to the creation of Arthur Lake, opening a major chapter in the growth of the area's agriculture and tourism. The yearly Kajwa Mahotsav is held at Bhandardara in May or June, during the height of the firefly season. Millions of fireflies blink in synchrony at this event, casting their radiance over the night. The Amruteshwar Temple in Ratanwadi is located approximately 17 miles from Bhandardara. Built-in the ninth century CE by the Shilahara dynasty, it is an elaborately sculpted Shiva temple that dates back more than 1200 years. One of the twelve Shiva temples that King Jhanjha ordered, this one's shikhara is still very ornate despite the mandapa's roof having vanished and revealing the ceiling's inner lintels. According to the Archaeological Survey of India, this monument is significant to the country. At Bhandardara, indigenous tribal communities practice farming and fishing. The local communities enrich the tapestry with dance, music, and handicrafts. The top attractions at Bhandardara are: 1. Arthur Lake: Serene reservoir behind Wilson Dam, ideal for boat rides and scenic views. 2. Wilson Dam: British-era engineering marvel offering panoramic Sahyadri views. 3. Reverse Waterfall: Some distance away is homely Samrad village, which is the base village for some of the most beautiful treks in the region. However, a little treasure is that it has a magnificent view of Konkankada and a massive reverse waterfall nearby! It is shrouded in clouds during monsoon.  4. Randha Falls:  The most famous waterfall in the Bhandardara region, it falls from a height of 170 feet and is jaw-dropping spectacular! There are multiple falls on either side of the viewpoint and flow in full blast in monsoon. It is one of the best sights in the state! 5. Umbrella Falls:  The magnificent Umbrella fall is located below the dam. On the days when the water in the dam overflows or reaches full capacity, its gates are opened. This results in huge cascades of water and is called Umbrella Falls. It is enormous, and tourists can have a full view of the fall by walking down a bridge that goes around it. 6. Amruteshwar Temple: It is an ancient Shiva temple located in Ratanwadi. It has beautiful stone carvings and is made in the Hemadpanthi architectural style. Peaceful and lost in time, it is believed to have been made in the 9th century by King Jhang of the Shilahara dynasty. The idol gets submerged in water during monsoon. The ride to the temple, along the banks of Arthur Lake, is filled with views but long in duration. However, one sight of the temple makes the ride uphill worthwhile. 7. Agastya Rishi Ashram: Mythologically linked ashram on the Pravara River's banks, serene and spiritual. 8. Kalsubai Peak: Western Ghats' highest peak, challenging trek with panoramic rewards. 9. Sandhan Valley: Trekking paradise with gorges and water-carved rocks. 10. Bhandardara Dam: Scenic spot contributing to the region's natural beauty, perfect for photography and relaxation. 11. Naanhi and Necklace Falls: En route to Amruteshwar temple, there are many beautiful spots full of greenery and valley views. Pitstop for tea and snacks is strategically located right opposite scenic Naanhi Falls. There is a small bridge to enable tourists to get a closer view. One can also spot picturesque Necklace fall. It’s a tiered waterfall, naturally formed in the shape of a necklace (circular), hence it is named that way. The location is ideal for a family day excursion because of its laid-back and enjoyable atmosphere. Create your favorite memory by sipping tea and eating spicy bhutta while admiring the rain-soaked lush valleys. You will be quite happy to see these breathtaking natural phenomena up close!

11 Jul 2024
Wanderlust

Perfect Trip From Amsterdam: Dutch Fishing Villages Of Marken And Volendam

Would you like to spend a great day exploring Amsterdam, but you're not sure where to start? Explore the charming towns of Marken and Volendam. Situated close above Amsterdam, these two charming and traditional fishing villages make for the perfect day trip destination. Both communities also have a long history and numerous customary Dutch characteristics. Savor delectable seafood while seeing Marken's wooden homes at Volendam's harbor. One community is well-known for its enormous monuments, whereas the other is more well-known for its entirely pastel-colored homes. Are you curious about what a day in Marken and Volendam might entail? Then fast continue reading! When you are in Volendam Whenever you think of it, delicious fish is frequently the first thing that comes to mind! Volendam has always been a well-known fishing community where you can acquire and eat great fresh fish, so that is undoubtedly true. With roughly 22,640 residents and the Volendam dialect, the hamlet is a popular tourist destination. It is, nonetheless, a pleasant day trip destination. It is conveniently located for both driving and public transportation. In Volendam, stroll down the Dijk past the gift shops, seafood markets, and the historic harbor with its numerous moored fishing vessels. Take a picture at one of the photo studios wearing a traditional Volendam outfit. The Sea Breeze Blows Away All Your Gloominess ~  ( Source: Google Images)  Just because the villages are adjacent to one another, it is simple to visit Volendam and Marken in a single day. Marken is most renowned for its real wooden houses that are raised on wooden piles. It's especially quaint in the spring and summer. There are two ways to go to Marken. Take the boat to Marken from Volendam's harbor or drive your vehicle there. Of course, you can travel to Marken by e-chopper or bicycle. Is the weather pleasant right now? Then I suggest that you take a boat to cross. In this manner, you can take in the scenery and the weather while traveling. Let Rave Your Trip To Monnickendam Also  ~  This All looks immensely Beautiful if you experience it By Yourself ~  (Source: Google Images)  Another village near Volendam and Marken is Monnickendam. You just can't miss this community if you take a car from Volendam to Marken! Although Monnickendam is a tiny community, it shares a rich history with the adjacent communities. A visit to the Speeltoren Museum is a necessity when visiting Monnickendam. This is the location of the oldest carillon or chimes, that is still played. Since 1967, the Saint Nicholas Church in Monnickendam has been recognized as a national monument! Gable stones are used in the construction of numerous structures, as you will quickly see when strolling through the historic streets. Colored Houses All Around 'Pants In Waterland' ~ Dont Sleep  Pastel Coloured Houses Make Your Click Instagram Worthy Photos ~  ( Source: Google Images)  People who know me well are aware of my intense passion for colorful dwellings. This is because it appears cheery and gives off a tropical vibe. I was determined to visit the village in the Netherlands where pastel-colored houses may be seen, and I still have hope of doing so in the future. Which village is this reference to? 'Pants in Waterland' is the response. Since this settlement is also in Waterland, visiting Volendam and Marken can be conveniently combined. Waterland's Broek is a preserved urban landscape. “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battut

17 May 2024
Wanderlust

This Botanical Wonderland in the Heart of the Himalayas is An Ethereal Paradise

The Valley of Flowers National Park is a destination that defies words. With a stunning backdrop of the mighty Himalayan ranges, this ethereal paradise offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Spread over an area of 87 sq km in the Chamoli district, the Valley of Flowers National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and forms one of the two core zones of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. This awe-inspiring valley is believed to have been discovered in 1931 when three British mountaineers lost their way and chanced upon this spectacular valley. Attracted by the beauty of this place they named it the “Valley of Flowers”. In 1980, the Indian government declared it the National Park and later in 1982, it was renamed Nanda Devi National Park and it came under the core part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. In 2004, UNESCO also took a major step and designated it as a World Heritage Site. The valley is home to over 600 species of exotic flowers, including orchids, poppies, primulas, marigolds, daisies, and anemones, all blooming in full glory. Sub-alpine forests of birch and rhododendron cover parts of the park's area. The trek to the valley offers eye-catching spectacles like cascading waterfalls and wild streams. Situated at an altitude of around 3,600 m above sea level, the valley is also home to rare and amazing wildlife species like the gray langur, the flying squirrel, the Himalayan weasel, and black bear, the red fox, the lime butterfly, the snow leopard, and Himalayan monal, to name a few. One of the most stunning features of the valley is the Pushpavati river stream that flows through it, creating a scenery masterpiece that is beyond comparison with any other place in this world. To witness this botanical wonderland at its best, plan a visit between the months of May and October, with the maximum abundance of flowers being in July to September. The Valley of Flowers National Park is a destination that is sure to take your breath away and leave you in awe of nature's beauty.

28 Mar 2023
Wanderlust

Positive Reads

No More of White: Vrindavan’s Widows Paint Their World with Holi’s Colors!

There was a time when a woman’s life revolved entirely around her husband—her identity tied to his, her happiness a reflection of his presence. If he was gone, so was her freedom. Widowhood wasn’t just about losing a partner; it meant losing herself. Stripped of color and joy, she was cast into the shadows, told that celebrations like Holi were no longer for her.But Vrindavan is changing this story. In its sacred streets, widows who were once bound by grief now throw vibrant gulal into the air, dancing freely. No longer defined by loss, they are reclaiming their lives with boldness, beauty, and color.Breaking Barriers: The Colors of Change in VrindavanIn the sacred land of Vrindavan, where echoes of Lord Krishna’s playful Holi celebrations still linger, a new chapter of joy unfolds, one that reclaims color, dignity, and inclusion. The widows of Vrindavan, long bound by societal restrictions, have broken free from the age-old norm that dictated their exclusion from festivities. With hands once clasped in sorrow now flinging vibrant hues into the air, these women have transformed Holi into a celebration of liberation. Drenched in the very colors they were once forbidden to touch, they dance with an unshackled spirit, proving that tradition evolves when hearts embrace change. This unique Holi is more than just a festival; it is a revolution wrapped in a rainbow, an anthem of resilience sung in splashes of crimson, saffron, and turquoise.Reclaiming Colors, Redefining LivesAs Vrindavan prepares for Holi, its ancient temples, bustling ashrams, and winding alleys come alive with the fragrance of celebration. The widows, once confined to the shadows, now step into the golden sunlight, showering petals upon one another, their laughter blending seamlessly with the chants of devotion. NGOs, social reformers, and compassionate souls have played a vital role in ensuring that these women find joy in togetherness. The festival, once a distant dream for them, now pulses with inclusivity, proving that faith and festivity belong to all. As they smear gulal on each other’s faces, a silent but powerful message reverberates, color knows no boundaries, love knows no limits, and society is only as strong as its willingness to embrace change.Holi Without Boundaries: Rewriting TraditionsBeyond Vrindavan, the spirit of Holi engulfs the nation, painting every street, courtyard, and market in dazzling shades of festivity. From the grand Rangbhari Ekadashi at Kashi Vishwanath Temple to the playful chaos of Lathmar Holi in Nandgaon, the festival stitches together a story of unity and joy. As sweets are shared, prayers are offered, and communities come together, Holi stands as a testament to renewal not just of seasons, but of souls, traditions, and the ever-expanding embrace of humanity.As the colors danced in the air, so did their hearts, no longer bound by silence or sorrow, but alive with the hues of hope and newfound freedom.

17 Mar 2025
Positive Reads

Rescue, Rehabilitate, Rejoice: The Story of Vantara

Amidst the lush landscapes of Gujarat’s Jamnagar, a quiet revolution in wildlife conservation is taking shape. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Vantara, a sprawling rescue and rehabilitation center that has become a haven for some of the world’s most endangered creatures. Inaugurated on World Wildlife Day, Vantara is more than just a sanctuary—it’s a proof of human compassion, a place where care and conservation go hand in hand. With every rescued animal finding refuge here, it stands as a powerful reminder of our responsibility to protect and preserve the delicate balance of nature.A Sanctuary of Hope for Over 150,000 AnimalsVantara is home to over 1.5 lakh rescued, endangered, and threatened animals from more than 2,000 species. This 3,000-acre wildlife haven, created by Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation, is the brainchild of Anant Ambani, who envisioned a sanctuary where animals could not only be rescued but live  in a safe, natural habitat. The centre offers a home to creatures ranging from the majestic Asiatic Lion to the Clouded Leopard, from Golden Tigers to endangered species like the Caracal. This vast expanse is dedicated to preserving the delicate balance of wildlife and ensuring that each animal receives the care it deserves . Vantara’s facilities are nothing short of extraordinary. The prime minister was deeply moved by the cutting-edge veterinary care offered at the centre’s wildlife hospital. Equipped with advanced tools like MRI machines, CT scans, and ICU units, the hospital ensures that the rescued animals receive medical treatment equivalent to the best available in the world. From wildlife anesthesia to specialized cardiology and nephrology departments, Vantara sets new standards in animal care. During his visit, PM Modi observed the hospital in action, witnessing an Asiatic Lion undergoing an MRI scan and a leopard receiving life-saving surgery after being hit by a speeding vehicleSource: Google Images Compassion in Action: Personal Interactions with the AnimalsWhat truly set PM Modi’s visit apart was the deeply emotional connection he shared with the animals. In a rare and touching moment, the prime minister interacted with a variety of animals, feeding and playing with Asiatic Lion cubs, a White Lion cub, and a Clouded Leopard cub. These moments highlighted the emotional intelligence of both the animals and the people dedicated to their care.One of the most emotional  moments came when PM Modi interacted with the orphaned One-Horned Rhino calf. This young calf, who had lost its mother, was tenderly fed and cared for by the staff at Vantara. The prime minister also shared special moments with animals such as Golden Tigers, Snow Leopards, and even the playful Orangutan.Vantara’s design emphasizes creating natural habitats that allow the animals to live as close to the wild as possible. The animals are not confined to sterile cages but are housed in spacious enclosures that replicate their natural environments. PM Modi walked through the expansive grounds, observing the majestic Snow Tigers, the two-headed snake, and even the submerged Hippopotamus and crocodiles.The centre’s ongoing conservation efforts are critical in preserving species like the Caracal and the Snow Leopard, which are becoming increasingly rare in the wild. Through captive breeding programs, Vantara aims to ensure the survival of these species and their eventual release back into their natural habitats.Source: Google Images The Healing Power of Hydrotherapy and Compassionate CareOne of the most innovative aspects of Vantara’s animal care approach is the hydrotherapy pools designed for elephants suffering from arthritis and foot problems. The elephants, some of whom have been victims of cruelty, including an elephant that was a victim of an acid attack, receive compassionate and state-of-the-art treatment. The hydrotherapy aids in their mobility and alleviates pain, ensuring that they live a life free from the physical hardships they once endured.The visit also included a happy  moment when PM Modi observed the release of rescued parrots back into the wild. This act of freedom was not just symbolic but a powerful reminder of the centre’s mission to rehabilitate and release animals back into their natural environment.In his address, the prime minister spoke about the growing need for kindness and responsibility towards animals. His visit also highlighted the importance of organizations like Vantara, which are at the forefront of animal welfare. “This underscores an important question- how can people be so careless and cruel? Let us put an end to such irresponsibility and focus on kindness towards animals,” PM Modi remarked, driving home the message of compassion and awareness.A New Benchmark in Wildlife CareThe inauguration of Vantara, supported by Reliance Industries and the Reliance Foundation, is a landmark moment in India’s journey towards wildlife conservation. As the largest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in India, Vantara is setting new benchmarks in animal care, sustainable conservation, and ecological balance. From its world-class veterinary care to its commitment to preserving endangered species, Vantara is a symbol of hope for wildlife and a sanctuary for those in need. As PM Modi’s visit demonstrated, the centre is not only a place for animals to heal but a place where hope, compassion, and sustainable care coexist. Through collective efforts, including support from organizations, governments, and individuals, we can work towards creating a future where wildlife thrives in its natural habitats, free from cruelty and harm.In the words of the prime minister: “Let us all take a pledge to nurture, protect, and conserve our wildlife. Together, we can make a difference.”

7 Mar 2025
Positive Reads

International Education Day: Why Education Matters More Than Ever!

On January 24, we celebrate International Education Day, a global reminder that education isn’t just a privilege—it’s a right! Declared by the United Nations, this day celebrates how education fuels peace, progress, and sustainable development. And as the world faces climate change, conflicts, and rising inequality, education has never been more urgent.Education = Power: The Path to Global ProgressLet’s face it: Education changes everything. From breaking the chains of poverty to empowering women, education is a powerhouse that drives sustainable development. That’s why the UN’s SDG 4 is all about ensuring quality education for all—because learning is the key to tackling the world’s biggest challenges, like gender equality, climate action, and health.Sadly, not everyone has access to the education they deserve. Over 244 million kids are out of school, and millions more can’t even read or do basic math. In some parts of the world, girls face the toughest hurdles—less than 40% of them finish secondary school in sub-Saharan Africa. This isn’t just a statistic—it’s a global emergency. Education is a right, and we need to fight for it.UNESCO’s Big Push: Turning Challenges into OpportunitiesIn 2024, UNESCO ramped up its efforts to ensure education stays at the top of the global agenda. It is pushing for data-driven policies that provide equitable education for everyone. And with teacher training and digital transformation at the forefront, the world is gearing up to educate for a better, brighter future. However, substantial funding and urgent action are needed to make a real impact!"Tech Meets Education: AI’s Role in the ClassroomLooking ahead to 2025, International Education Day will dive deep into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is already changing the game in education, from personalized learning experiences to helping teachers assess students' work. But here’s the catch: many schools still don’t have clear guidelines on using AI responsibly.That’s where UNESCO comes in! By bringing global attention to AI in education, UNESCO wants to make sure this tech serves the students and teachers—not the other way around. Think better tools, safer classrooms, and smarter learning. Training both students and teachers to use AI responsibly is crucial for fully enhancing the learning experience.International Education Day isn’t just a celebration; it’s a rallying cry! We all have a role to play in making sure every child gets a chance to learn. Education is the tool we need to tackle poverty, inequality, and climate change. Whether it’s through better policies, more funding, or embracing new technologies like AI, we all have the power to make a difference.Together, we can reshape the future with a generation of informed, empowered, and forward-thinking global citizens.

24 Jan 2025
Positive Reads

Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025: The Celebration of Rural India!

The Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025, an ambitious initiative by the Department of Financial Services (DFS) and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), is an ode to Rural India—the heartbeat of the nation. Hosted at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from January 4 to 9, 2025, the event runs daily from 10:30 AM to 8 PM, drawing together government officials, industry leaders, rural entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders. The shared goal? To collaborate on innovative and sustainable initiatives that drive rural growth and empower communities.A Vision for 2047: PM Modi’s Inspirational InaugurationPrime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Mahotsav on January 4, calling it a transformative platform to empower rural economies and build a resilient India. Themed ‘Building a Resilient Rural India for a Viksit Bharat 2047’, the Mahotsav aligns with India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by its centenary of independence.Addressing the audience, PM Modi emphasized the importance of rural prosperity in achieving national development. “The more prosperous our villages become, the greater will be their role in realizing the resolve of a developed India,” he remarked. The PM spoke passionately about the government’s unwavering commitment to uplifting rural communities since 2014.Highlights of the Mahotsav: A Celebration of Progress and PotentialThe Mahotsav offers an enriching mix of discussions, workshops, and masterclasses focusing on rural infrastructure, innovation, and sustainable agriculture. Special emphasis is placed on financial inclusion, women empowerment, and leveraging technology to enhance rural livelihoods. The event also showcases India’s cultural vibrancy with exhibitions and performances celebrating the country’s rural heritage.Notable highlights include:Interactive Sessions: Policy discussions and workshops designed to address challenges and explore opportunities in rural development.Cultural Exhibitions: Displays of Geographical Indication (GI)-certified goods, organic produce, and tribal crafts by over 180 artisans from across India.Innovation Showcase: Technological advancements in telemedicine, smart agriculture, and digital financial inclusion.One of the most exciting aspects of the Mahotsav is the vibrant marketplace featuring products from India’s rural heartland. From handloom textiles to tribal crafts, the event celebrates the diversity and creativity of rural artisans. Visitors can explore GI-certified goods, organic produce, and innovative products that exemplify the potential of India’s rural economy.Source: Google ImagesPM Modi’s Key Announcements for Rural EmpowermentDuring his address, PM Modi detailed his government’s decade-long initiatives to uplift rural India. He highlighted transformative projects, including:Clean Drinking Water Initiatives: Extending potable water access to lakhs of villages.Healthcare Expansion: Establishing over 1.5 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and telemedicine networks connecting villages to premier healthcare providers.Farmer-Centric Programs: Rolling out the PM Fasal Bima Yojana and subsidizing Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) to protect farmers from global price volatility.Artisan Support: Launching the PM Vishwakarma Yojana to empower artisans.PM Modi also lauded NABARD for its pivotal role in orchestrating the Mahotsav, describing it as both a reflection of India’s development journey and a roadmap to achieve rural transformation by 2047.Empowering Communities: A Special Focus on Women and the North-EastThe Mahotsav underscores the vital role of women in driving rural growth. Initiatives promoting women entrepreneurs, skill development, and leadership are prominently featured. Additionally, the event shines a spotlight on the North-East, showcasing its unique cultural heritage and contributions to the nation’s rural economy.Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025 is more than just an event—it’s a call to action. By bringing together diverse stakeholders and celebrating the potential of rural India, the Mahotsav sets the stage for sustainable growth and self-reliance. As the nation marches towards 2047, initiatives like this will ensure that rural India remains at the forefront of our development story.

7 Jan 2025
Positive Reads

Tilak Was Inspired by This Ganesh Mandal – Hint: It’s Not in Mumbai or Pune!

When you think of the oldest Sarvajanik (Open to All) Ganesh mandals in India, your mind may immediately wander to bustling cities like Mumbai or Pune. However, the honor of hosting India’s oldest Sarvajanik Ganpati celebration actually belongs to the vibrant city of Solapur. Established in 1885, eight years before Lokmanya Tilak gave the festival a public form, the Ajoba Ganpati Mandal of Solapur has been a symbol of devotion, community spirit, and environmental consciousness for over 144 years. In 1883, Lokmanya Tilak introduced the Sarvajanik Ganesh festival to unite people and support the freedom movement. However, eight years earlier, a group of notable elders in Solapur’s Shukrawar Peth had already established the Sarvajanik Ajoba Ganpati. It is Ajoba Ganpati that inspired Tilak to give the Ganesh festival a public form, as recalled by elders. Ajoba Ganpati is now in its 140th year and nearing the 150-year milestone.Lokmanya Tilak shared a close friendship with Appasaheb Warad, the founder of the Indrabhuwan Building. Tilak would stay at Warad's residence whenever he visited Solapur. On one occasion, Warad brought Tilak along to the pan-supari event at Shri Pasare's residence near the old Faujdar Chawdi. Watching the gathering of citizens for Ajoba Ganpati’s festival inspired Tilak’s vision for a Sarvajanik Ganesh festival.The Ajoba Ganpati of Shraddhanand Society has a significant history. The establishment of Ajoba Ganpati in Shukrawar Peth, Solapur, took place 140 years ago. Today, the revered idol is housed in an attractive, grand temple in Manik Chowk.Source: The Brighter WorldThe Origin of Ajoba Ganpati MandalEstablishment of Shraddhanand SocietyLala Munshiram, a renowned lawyer in Lahore High Court, became known as Swami Shraddhanand after taking sannyasa (renunciation). He was also the president of the Congress Committee at the time. On December 12, 1926, a religious fanatic shot him dead at his residence. In protest, a shutdown was observed in Solapur. On that day, prominent figures from the freedom movement gathered at Tripurantakeshwar Temple and established the Shraddhanand Society in Swami Shraddhanand’s memory. The Sarvajanik Ajoba Ganpati Mandal began operating under the guidance of this society, promoting nationalistic values among the youth. The Shraddhanand Society organized activities such as exercise classes, dandi-patta training, and youth gatherings to foster enthusiasm, self-confidence, and intellectual awakening. These efforts produced noted wrestlers and athletes. Given that many freedom fighters from Shukrawar Peth were involved in the movement, the area came to be known as the "neighborhood of freedom fighters."A Symbol of Hindu-Muslim UnityInitially, Ajoba Ganpati symbolized Hindu-Muslim unity. Maghrib Shah Baba of Manik Chowk used to offer floral garlands to the idol and pay his respects with great devotion.In processions, the green flag of Pir Magribashah Baba was present, and even today, their worship holds a significant place. Prominent figures such as former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, ex-Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, Sharad Pawar, Nitin Gadkari, and Shiv Sena leader Bal Thackeray, among others, have visited the Ajoba Ganpati.Pioneer of Eco-Friendly Ganesh FestivalAmid the growing call for eco-friendly Ganesh celebrations, the Ajoba Ganpati Trust stands as an exemplary leader. Since 1885, the Trust has been promoting the use of environmentally friendly materials like paper, twigs, gum, and clay. In 1993, a scientifically crafted idol was created by Kerala artists to replace the older one after 108 years of worship.During the main Ganesh immersion procession of Solapur city, Ajoba Ganpati holds the highest honor as the last Ganpati. The spectacle includes a disciplined display of over 500 youths performing the traditional Lezim dance, along with 200 boys and girls showcasing a captivating drum performance. The unified white attire and rhythmic instruments enthrall the onlookers.Ajoba Ganpati's Magnificent TempleIn 1994, an elegant temple was built at Manik Chowk. Since then, regular religious ceremonies and grand aartis are held, with the temple becoming a pilgrimage site during festivals. Devotees have offered gold and silver ornaments, including a silver throne and golden crown.Ajoba Ganpati Trust has actively participated in national campaigns like Swachh Bharat, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and Save Water Save Nation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they provided food to underprivileged families. Other initiatives include assistance for disaster victims, scholarships for students, medical aid, and tree plantation drives.The Legacy of Ajoba Ganpati TodaySolapur’s Ajoba Ganpati Mandal reflects the enduring power of tradition, sustainability, and communal harmony. The Mandal laid the groundwork for a concept that has only gained importance over the years: celebrating festivals with respect for both culture and the environment. Under the dedicated leadership of trustees Siddharudh Nimbale, Anil Sawant, Chivanand Adkale, Chivanand Vanarote, Kamlakar Karmalkar, and Gurunath Nimbale, the Mandal continues to uphold these values with unwavering commitment.Even after 144 years, Ajoba Ganpati continues to inspire devotion and pride among Solapur’s residents. The Ganesh festival at Ajoba Ganpati Mandal has become a symbol of continuity, resilience, and unity—a legacy that not only honors the past but also sets a meaningful example for the future. 

17 Sep 2024
Positive Reads

A Tree's Revival: The Heartwarming Tradition of Nagarkurnool

Every year, on July 28, people around the world celebrate World Nature Conservation Day, recognizing the importance of conserving our planet's natural resources and honoring those dedicated to protecting nature. For the students of Government Girls High School in Nagarkurnool, Telangana, this day holds a special significance beyond the usual slogans, posters, and plantation drives. They celebrate the "birthday" of a beloved tree, the Seema Chintha (Manila tamarind), which they worship and thank every year for its resilience and life. A Storm of Destruction The story of the Seema Chintha tree begins with a devastating thunderstorm on May 10, 2017. The storm, which claimed lives and caused significant damage, also uprooted the cherished tree in the schoolyard. When the school reopened in June, the students and teachers were disheartened to see the once-thriving tree lying on the ground, clinging to life by a single root. Source: Google Images A Teacher's Determination Gudibanda Yashoda Reddy, a dedicated social studies teacher at the school, was particularly affected by the tree's fate. Speaking to The Hindu, she said "I was coming to take special classes for high school students when the tree collapsed. I felt bad, as the children loved its fruit, but there was little I could do," she recalled. However, upon discovering new shoots on the fallen tree, Yashoda Reddy was inspired to take action.   The Rescue Mission Yashoda Reddy sought the assistance of the Vata Foundation, an NGO based in Hyderabad that specializes in tree translocation services. P. Uday Krishna, a volunteer from the foundation, recalled the urgency of the situation, noting that they had been informed that the tree was running out of time. Their task was to lift the tree without damaging its only surviving root. The foundation agreed to cover all the costs involved, provided that the students would be able to witness the tree's revival process.. With great care and effort, the team managed to lift and replant the tree. The Seema Chintha tree began to grow new branches in the opposite direction to regain its balance. To commemorate this miraculous recovery, the school started a unique tradition. Every year on July 28, the students tie raksha bandhan to the tree, made of flowers and embedded with messages promoting tree protection. Even after her retirement, Yashoda Reddy visits the tree annually on World Nature Conservation Day. She performs a puja to instill a love for trees in the students, ensuring that the tradition continues. Seven batches of students have graduated since the tradition began, yet it remains a vibrant part of the school's culture. It teaches the students valuable lessons about caring for the environment and the significance of every single tree. The school's commitment to celebrating the tree's revival highlights the powerful connection between the community and nature. World Nature Conservation Day, celebrated globally to emphasize the importance of conserving our natural resources, is brought to life through the heartfelt efforts of a teacher, a school, and an NGO working together to save a single tree. Their story inspires us all to take action, however small, to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations.

30 Jul 2024
Positive Reads

Saying No Is The Greatest Productivity Trick

Saying no is a very effective productivity tip that will enable you to accomplish more in less time and reach your objectives. It's crucial to keep in mind that we frequently find ourselves attempting to balance several jobs and projects at once in today's fast-paced environment. We may believe that our productivity increases with our workload. But what if the best productivity tip is to say no? One of the most effective strategies for boosting productivity is to say no. We frequently undervalue the importance of saying no, but it's critical to realize that refusing is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it serves as a means of saving our time and energy for the things that count. Saying "yes" to everything causes us to overextend ourselves and lose concentration and attention. Nothing gets done well because we try to accomplish too many things at once. Saying no, on the other hand, frees up our time, energy, and mental resources so that we may concentrate on the things that count. Although it takes discipline, learning to say no is a talent that can be acquired. It's critical to keep in mind that saying no does not equate to being disagreeable or passing up chances. It's about prioritizing our time and resources and establishing limits. ( Source: Google Images)  Why do people feel bad for putting life before work? Much of our culture still views the number of hours worked as a measure of productivity. In general, we associate productivity with "doing things." How many times have you told yourself that you "wasted a weekend" because you rested rather than planned? We feel guilty for selecting relaxation over action because of this unfounded belief that being active is important. The key issue is that we no longer define "productivity" in the same way. Companies have started to prioritize having a greater effect over working longer hours in the past two years. You are free to continue along that route. History demonstrates that in difficult economic circumstances, people are compelled to revert to a risky way of thinking where work comes before personal well-being. However, such need not be the case. It's not how long it takes you to develop anything; rather, it's the value your work provides that defines your worth, talent, or value as an employee. However, to do your greatest work—your most influential work—you must establish a long-term work-life balance that puts your happiness, health, and well-being first. But why do we say yes so frequently if there are such clear advantages to saying no? The Reasons We Accept ~  We frequently comply with demands out of a desire to avoid coming out as obnoxious, haughty, or useless. Saying no to people you will encounter again in the future, such as your spouse, family, friends, or coworkers, is something you frequently have to think about. It might be especially hard to say no to these folks since we like and want to be there for them. (In addition, we frequently require their assistance.) Working together with others is a vital aspect of life. Our investment of time and energy is outweighed by the fear of straining the connection. For this reason, responding politely may be beneficial. Give whatever assistance you can, and when you have to say no, do it with kindness and candor. But even after taking these social factors into account, a lot of us still appear to struggle with knowing when to say yes and when to say no. We discover that we are overly dedicated to endeavors that neither significantly better our own lives nor the lives of people around us. Enhancing Your No ~ Your approach must adapt as you achieve and get better over time. Your time has a growing opportunity cost as you gain success. You just ignore the apparent diversions at first and investigate the remaining areas. Your threshold for saying yes has to be raised gradually as your abilities develop and you learn to distinguish between what works and what doesn't. To create room for excellent uses of your time, you still need to say no to distractions, but you also need to understand when to say no to things that were once worthwhile endeavors. Although it might be a challenging ability to perfect, it's a nice issue to have. Put differently, you need to gradually improve your "no's." You may improve your no without necessarily ever saying yes. All it means is that you say no by default and yes only when it makes perfect sense. "Saying no is so powerful because it preserves the opportunity to say yes," investor Brent Beshore once said. What practical applications of saying no can we make in our day-to-day lives? Here are several examples: ( Source: Google Images)  Make your to-do list a priority: Create a daily to-do list and rank it. Make a list of the most critical things to do and schedule your time appropriately. When someone asks you to do anything extra, compare it to your list and determine whether it should be prioritized. Say "no" if it is not. Acquire delegation skills: Give jobs to others when you can. Think about assigning some of your tasks to others if you feel like you have too much on your plate. This allows others to advance their talents while also freeing up your time. Steer clear of multitasking: It can be detrimental. Prioritizing one task at a time and finishing it before moving on to the next is preferable. It's OK to refuse requests to take on new tasks while you're working on something else and give an explanation that must be completed before moving on. Establish limits: Establish limits with your friends, family, and coworkers. Inform them of your availability and absence. Say no when someone asks you to do anything that is against your moral code. Refusing something is a great productivity tip. Refusing an opportunity or being disagreeable are not the goals of saying no. It's all about prioritizing your time and energy and establishing limits. Thus, the next time ~ Never be scared to say no when a request comes up that doesn't fit with your priorities. Your output will be acknowledged.  

12 Apr 2024
Positive Reads

Apes Demonstrate Remarkable Memory Skills, Remembering Friends After 25 Years!

New research conducted by Johns Hopkins University reveals the astonishing memory capabilities of apes. The study, which documents the longest-lasting non-human social memories ever recorded, demonstrates that apes can recognize their friends even after a separation of more than two decades. The findings, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, shed light on the cognitive abilities shared between humans and our primate relatives. Do apes possess the ability to maintain lasting memories of familiar social partners? The study sought to answer this question by examining the behaviors of chimpanzees and bonobos in three different locations: Edinburgh Zoo in Scotland, Planckendael Zoo in Belgium, and Kumamoto Sanctuary in Japan. Using photographs of apes they hadn't seen for at least nine months, and in some cases up to 26 years, the researchers observed the apes' reactions. Astonishingly, the apes showed significant attention and recognition towards their former group mates, regardless of the duration of separation. Furthermore, the study revealed that apes demonstrated heightened interest in individuals with whom they had positive relationships. This suggests that they not only remember familiar faces but also retain information about the quality of their social interactions. The remarkable findings imply that great apes possess social memories that can endure beyond 26 years, rivaling even the memory capacities of humans. This discovery raises intriguing questions about the emotional bonds and potential longing for individuals they are no longer with. This groundbreaking research illuminates the deep cognitive connections shared by humans and apes, emphasizing the complex nature of social relationships and memory in primates.

21 Dec 2023
Positive Reads

Empower Your Fitness Journey: Learning from Rashmika Mandanna's Exercise Regimen

Rashmika Mandanna not only shares moments of ethnic beauty but also highlights the need to take breaks and maintain a work-life balance. She also frequently shares specifics of her fitness routines. The Animal actor has a very adaptable training technique that includes everything from spending hours at the gym to performing yoga and connecting with nature. In an effort to motivate her 39.6 million Instagram followers to take up certain methods and habits, Rashmika Mandanna recently shared her new exercise regimen. The exercise routine involves using weights and other training tools, attempting challenging yoga positions, and other exercises. The most crucial lesson to take away from her performance is that the tenacious performer never gives up even when she can't finish a set or strike a posture; instead, she fails gracefully and cheerfully. Here's a summary of the many exercises she does and their advantages. Weight training:  Incorporating weights into our daily workout routine, just like Rashmika has used kettlebells, has numerous health and fitness benefits. One of the main benefits is increased muscle strength and adaptability. This not only helps to tone our muscles and add definition but also promotes an improved metabolism, which aids in weight management. Weight training also benefits bone health by increasing density. It is a comprehensive kind of exercise that improves posture, endurance, and cardiovascular health. Yoga for mind and soul:  Yoga provides a holistic approach to our physical and mental well-being, with advantages that go beyond the physical. Yoga improves flexibility, strength, and balance by combining controlled postures, conscious breathing, and meditation. It aids in mental clarity and emotional resilience by promoting relaxation and stress reduction. The emphasis on mindfulness and deep breathing can help with sleep quality and overall awareness. Resistance exercises: Resistance workouts or the use of resistance bands provide a plethora of benefits to general health and fitness. Resistance training helps to enhance metabolism, aid in weight management, and promote the growth of lean muscle mass by taxing the muscles. Aside from the physical benefits, this type of exercise also improves bone health. “Your health account, your bank account, they’re the same thing. The more you put in, the more you can take out.” – Jack LaLanne  

12 Dec 2023
Positive Reads

Miracle in Broad Daylight: Chester Zoo Welcomes Rare Eastern Black Rhino Calf

In an extraordinary event captured on camera, Chester Zoo in England celebrates the birth of a new Eastern black rhino calf. The birth, which occurred in broad daylight, has sparked hope among conservationists working tirelessly to protect this critically endangered species. The birth of a healthy calf is a significant milestone in global efforts to prevent the Eastern black rhino from disappearing altogether. With fewer than 600 individuals remaining in the wild across Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda, every new addition to the population is cause for celebration. The arrival of the calf took place at 2:45 p.m. following a 15-month pregnancy. This rare daytime birth provided zookeepers with a unique opportunity to witness and record the event. The zoo's rhino team manager, Emma Evison, expressed her excitement, stating, "To be able to witness the calf safely entering the world, in front of our very own eyes, was just the most incredible privilege." Chester Zoo has been actively involved in rhino conservation, not only through successful breeding programs but also through innovative techniques. The zoo's animal endocrine lab has developed skills to track rhino hormones, helping improve the chances of successful mating and increasing the numbers of this critically endangered species. Furthermore, the zoo has shared its expertise by assisting in the creation of a specialist lab in Kenya. This collaboration aims to support rangers and veterinarians in their efforts to boost the wild population of Eastern black rhinos. The heartwarming birth of this calf serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation initiatives and the tireless work of dedicated individuals striving to protect endangered species. It is a beacon of hope for the future of the Eastern black rhino and a call to action for increased efforts in preserving our planet's biodiversity.

30 Nov 2023
Positive Reads

Ramakrishna Mission: Empowering Communities through Philanthropy

In Hyderabad, the Ramakrishna Mission stands as a beacon of hope, providing a wide range of services to uplift communities and promote human excellence. With a vision inspired by Swami Vivekananda, the mission aims to create a world free from apathy and filled with individuals striving for excellence.   What sets the Ramakrishna Mission apart from other NGOs? Instead of offering mere charity, the mission focuses on empowering individuals to help themselves and others. Through their various initiatives, they aim to bring about sustainable change.    Their Personality Development course, with over 500 enrolled students, goes beyond conventional teachings. It instills a value system that emphasizes sensitivity towards others and the environment. Volunteers like Sarvi Ramwani testify to the positive impact this course has had on their lives, fostering self-reliance and empathy.   The Ramakrishna Mission's Primary Healthcare Centre serves nearly 300 patients, offering consultations at an affordable fee. From general health issues to specialized care in oncology, the center plays a vital role in providing accessible healthcare to the community.   Furthermore, the mission actively engages in the GRAMASRI program, which involves visiting nearby villages and conducting medical and youth camps. Their efforts include establishing 100 reverse osmosis (RO) plants across 100 villages, ensuring clean and affordable drinking water for the underprivileged.   The Ramakrishna Mission's commitment to their cause stems from the foundational work of their inspiration, Swami Vivekananda. With a goal to alleviate human misery worldwide, they strive to make a lasting impact in society.  

11 Nov 2023
Positive Reads

World Nature Conservation Day: Uniting for a Thriving Planet!

On July 28th, the world comes together to observe World Nature Conservation Day, a vital annual event that serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to protect our planet's precious resources and ensure a sustainable and thriving society. With growing concerns about the state of the environment, this day holds significant importance in highlighting the critical role each individual plays in safeguarding Mother Earth. The primary objective of World Nature Conservation Day is to safeguard endangered plants and animals, striving to reverse the alarming trend of extinction they face.  Another significant objective is to emphasize the preservation of the entire ecosystem, including flora, fauna, energy resources, soil, water, and air – the interconnected web that sustains life on Earth. This day also makes us aware of the responsibility we bear in preserving the environment for future generations. The choices we make today will determine the kind of world our children and grandchildren inherit. World Nature Conservation Day reminds us that we are entrusted with the duty of leaving behind a healthy planet for the generations to come, a planet they can cherish and thrive in. Over the past century, human activities have undeniably taken a toll on our natural environment. The relentless pursuit of rapid industrialization and the clearing of forests to accommodate an ever-growing population have contributed to climate change and other environmental crises. While awareness about conservation has increased, meaningful action is still required to witness tangible results. Organizations like the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. From examining the impact of human activities on nature to promoting environmental impact assessments, the IUCN has been at the forefront of conservation efforts.  As we commemorate World Nature Conservation Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the importance of preserving our planet's natural splendor. Let it serve as a rallying call for action, motivating us to make conscious choices that prioritize sustainability and protect the delicate balance of nature.

28 Jul 2023
Positive Reads

Paleontologist's Stunning Discovery: Four-Foot-Long Mammoth Tusk Found Intact in Quarry

A 33-year-old paleontologist, Jamie Jordan, has made an incredible discovery after spotting a four-foot-long mammoth tusk in a quarry in England. Jordan, who frequently leads fossil-finding tours at the quarry, stumbled upon the 450,000-year-old steppe mammoth tusk during a routine visit. He was amazed to find that the tusk was still intact and had not been broken up during the quarrying process. The tusk has been transported to Jordan's Fossils Galore center in Cambridgeshire, where it will be researched and preserved. The Fossils Galore team will spend six months working on the preservation of the tusk, after which they will examine it to learn more about the mammoth's life. The mammoth, which lived during the last ice age, would have been much larger than modern-day elephants, standing up to 13 feet tall and weighing 14 tons. Jordan expects to learn a lot about the mammoth's life by looking at the rings of the tusk, which will indicate the quality of habitat and food supply available to the animal. In addition to the mammoth tusk, the Fossils Galore team is also analyzing a skeleton of an Iguanodon dinosaur that lived over 100 million years ago. The team discovered the skeleton in Surrey in 2017 and a nearly complete skeleton of a Plesiosaur in 2008. Jordan's Fossils Galore center offers a range of activities for families, including fossil hunting and cracking open geodes, allowing children to become the paleontologists of the future.

20 Jul 2023
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Sudarshan Patnaik's Epic Sand Sculpture Takes a Stand Against Smoking

Prepare to be amazed as the master of sand art, Sudarshan Patnaik, unleashed his boundless creativity on the golden shores of Puri beach, igniting the spirit of "World No Tobacco Day." With each stroke of his skilled hands, Patnaik sculpted a breathtaking masterpiece that transcended the ordinary, becoming a powerful symbol of the battle against smoking and a clarion call for a world free from the clutches of tobacco. The intricately crafted sand art depicted the devastating consequences of tobacco consumption, sending a resounding message of "Say no to tobacco." Patnaik used a staggering seven to eight tons of sand to bring his creation to life, showcasing the magnitude of the issue at hand. The viral photos of the sculpture quickly spread across social media platforms, amplifying the impact of Patnaik's message. "World No Tobacco Day," observed annually on May 31, serves as a global initiative led by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and advocate for policies that reduce tobacco consumption. This year's campaign aims to shed light on alternative crop production and marketing opportunities for tobacco farmers, encouraging them to transition to sustainable and nutritious crops. Simultaneously, it aims to expose the tobacco industry's attempts to hinder such transitions and contribute to the global food crisis. As the world grapples with the harmful effects of tobacco, Sudarshan Patnaik's sand sculpture serves as a poignant reminder of the need to prioritize health and well-being. By harnessing the power of art, he has contributed to the larger movement against tobacco, urging individuals and communities to choose a healthier path and protect future generations from the perils of tobacco consumption.

31 May 2023
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Exotic Mandarin Duck Sighting in Manipur Delights Birdwatchers and Conservationists

The sighting of the Mandarin duck in Manipur recently spells good news as the duck is considered the world's rarest duck and is primarily found in East Asia. Mandarin ducks are very exotic and ornate birds that dwell in lakes and ponds, especially near trees.   Classified as ‘Least Concern’ in the extinction hierarchy of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Mandarin duck population is on the decline, and experts suggest that it is important to monitor their status in the coming years.  The duck has been sighted in various parts of Manipur over the years, with the most recent sighting in Lamphelpat on February 11, 2023. The duck's rarity and unique appearance make it a subject of interest for bird lovers and environmentalists.  The duck, belonging to the family of Anatidae, was recorded in 1939 in Mayangkhang, Senapati, according to records. The duck was also brought and reared in Manipur Zoological Garden for public exhibit in 2009, but it died in 2010.  This sighting is a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving the natural habitats of endangered species. It is crucial to raise awareness and promote conservation efforts to ensure that endangered species like the Mandarin duck continue to thrive and contribute to the ecosystem.

14 Feb 2023
Positive Reads

The Sighting of Rare Great Indian Bustards Thrills Conservationists

The sighting of the endangered Great Indian Bustards in the villages of Siruguppa taluk in the state of Karnataka has been music to the ears of bird conservationists. The forest department is preparing a comprehensive report on the sighting, and a team of officials will be visiting the Jaisalmer Desert National Park in Rajasthan to learn about their conservation measures. The new sighting of the birds in Siruguppa taluk is a welcome change as the birds have not been spotted in the area for years. According to survey reports, there are only about 150 Great Indian Bustards in existence, and they can be found in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. Bird watchers in Siruguppa taluk have reported 20 sightings of the birds between February 24 and September 17 in 2022. The first sighting in the area was recorded in 2016, but according to environmentalist Santosh Martin, there were six Great Indian Bustards recorded in 2006. A report in the Deccan Herald states that the government has released Rs 1.5 crore for the conservation of the Great Indian Bustards. Environmentalist Samad Kottur describes the birds as having long legs, a long neck, and a unique way of taking off in flight, like that of an aircraft. The birds are usually found in fields with black soil, where cotton and sunflowers are cultivated, and they build nests in these fields for breeding purposes. Forest officer Sandeeprao Suryavanshi has been instrumental in expanding the sanctuary by 30 hectares, making it a safe haven for the rare birds.

11 Feb 2023
Positive Reads

Kanyakumari: The Southernmost Tip of Mainland India

Kanyakumari, located in the southernmost tip of India, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, cultural significance, and rich history. With its mix of breathtaking beaches, pristine backwaters, and towering hills, Kanyakumari offers something for everyone.   One of the most famous landmarks in Kanyakumari is the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a tribute to the spiritual leader Swami Vivekananda. The memorial stands on a massive rock in the sea, and offers panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean. Visitors can reach the memorial by ferry and take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.   Another popular attraction in Kanyakumari is the Our Lady of Ransom Church, which is one of the oldest churches in India. With its Gothic architecture and peaceful surroundings, the church is a peaceful haven for visitors and a popular place for meditation and prayer.   In addition to its religious and cultural significance, Kanyakumari is also known for its stunning natural beauty. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the beach or go for a swim in the clear waters. The Kanyakumari beach is also a popular spot for sunrise and sunset viewing, as the sun appears to rise and set over the ocean.   For those looking to explore the local culture, Kanyakumari offers a range of traditional arts and crafts, including bronze sculptures, pottery, and hand-woven textiles. Visitors can also take a cooking class to learn about the local cuisine and savor the flavors of South India.   With its mix of natural beauty, cultural significance, and rich history, this charming town is sure to leave a lasting impression on its visitors.  

2 Feb 2023
Positive Reads

5 Ways to Beat Monday Blues

Monday blues, or the feeling of dread or unhappiness that can come with the start of a new work week, is a common experience for many people. If you're struggling to shake off the Monday blues, here are five strategies that may help: Plan something enjoyable for the start of your week: Whether it's a fun activity with friends, a relaxing hobby, or a special treat for yourself, having something to look forward to can help you start your week on a positive note. Get plenty of sleep: Lack of sleep can contribute to feelings of stress and negativity, so make sure you're getting enough rest over the weekend. Exercise regularly: Physical activity has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress, so try incorporating some form of exercise into your weekly routine. Practice gratitude: Focusing on the things you're grateful for, even if it's just small things like a sunny day or a good cup of coffee, can help shift your perspective and improve your mood. Set realistic goals for the week: Having a clear idea of what you need to accomplish can help you feel more in control and motivated. Just be sure to set achievable goals and break them down into manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Beating the Monday blues is all about finding ways to make Monday feel less daunting and more manageable. Whether it's through self-care practices, setting achievable goals, or finding enjoyable activities to look forward to, there are many strategies you can try to start your week off on a positive note.

9 Jan 2023
Positive Reads

Let’s Make the Twilight Years Wonderful for Senior Citizens

Nikita is an independent young woman who works from home. One rainy day, she dropped her child in school and returned home to commence her work. As it was raining heavily, the electricity supply got snapped after a few hours, and the Wi-Fi connection got disabled which interrupted her work. Nikita, therefore, decided to stop her office work and attend to her pending household chores. The phone rang and she was happy to see the call from ‘Amma’. Her parents stayed alone in the same town and she daily called them to check on them. A little while into the conversation, Nikita enquired about her father who had recently turned 78. Her mother said that the weather has become cold due to the incessant rains and Nikita’s father is yearning to eat hot samosas. However, the pounding rain was acting as a deterrent and confined them to their home. Nikita also told them not to go out in the rain.    After attending to the call, Nikita continued to clean the house, but she couldn’t subdue the thought that was constantly arising in her mind – that her father wanted to eat samosas. She recollected how when she was a child, her father would cater to even her smallest and insignificant demands. In a moment of urgency, she donned her raincoat, took the keys of her scooter and darted out of the house to buy samosas from a famous shop nearby. It was around 5 in the evening and the doorbell rang. As Nikita’s mother was in the kitchen making the evening tea, her father opened the door and was pleasantly surprised. He saw Nikita wet and dripping, but smiling and holding a parcel of piping hot samosas. His joy knew no bounds, not because he got what he wanted but because he was touched by his daughter’s kindness and love. Nikita’s parents were overwhelmed by her thoughtful and caring gesture and they all sat joyfully to enjoy the samosas and tea. For a long time, Nikita couldn’t forget the expression of surprise and joy on her parent’s face. She felt very fulfilled and satisfied as never before. Believe me, there is great joy in giving your time to people who are in the twilight years of their life. All they want is your companionship as they live lonely lives. Today is ‘World Senior Citizen Day’. If you don’t have elders at home, brighten up a senior citizen’s day in your neighborhood and see the difference it brings to your life.

20 Aug 2019
Positive Reads

Why 12 January Is Celebrated As National Youth Day

Today is the 155th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, one of the greatest social reformers, thinkers, and philosophers of India. His teachings are timeless and relevant and it is for this reason that January 12 is celebrated as National Youth Day in India.  The ideals and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda inspire the youth to tread on the right path and work towards the development and progress of oneself as well as the country. The government had declared 12 January as The National Youth Day in 1984 as it felt that the ideals and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda were worthy of being emulated and they could act as a great source of inspiration for the youth of India. It was expected that the words of this great thinker would arouse the latent energy among the youth of the country and inspire them to make all the efforts that they could for the upliftment of the country. Since then, this day is celebrated annually with great enthusiasm and Swami Vivekananda’s teachings are remembered and followed. Swami Vivekananda was born to an aristocratic family in 1863. He was originally known as Narendra Nath Datta.  He chose the road less traveled and was curious about religion and philosophy. He started meditating at a young age. His quest for God led him to the great guru, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Swami Vivekananda is known all over the world for the historic speech that he delivered on 11 September 1893 at the World Parliament of Religions held in Chicago. He addressed the audience as brothers and sisters spreading the spirit of oneness and brotherhood. He asserted that every religion is important in its own way and emphasized the need for tolerance and universal acceptance. He was a key figure in the introduction of the Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion during the late 19th century. He was a compassionate man looking after the poor and sick as he believed that serving them meant serving the Lord. Here are some quotes of Swami Vivekananda that makes a strong impact: “Choose the highest ideal and live your life up to that. Look at the “ocean” and not at the wave”. “A few heart-whole, sincere, and energetic men and women can do more in a year than a mob in a century”. “Religion is the manifestation of the Divinity already in man”.   The National Youth Day is celebrated throughout the country, especially in schools and colleges by organizing speeches, seminars,  yoga sessions, competitions and youth conventions. A number of NGOs (non-governmental organizations) in India observe the festival as well. The philosophy, ideas, and teachings of Swami Vivekananda can justifiably be called national assets from traditional and cultural points of view.  He was a torchbearer in his time and his teachings still continue to inspire and motivate the youth who are the future of our country.  

12 Jan 2018
Positive Reads

Kalyanasundaram – A life dedicated to service

P. Kalyanasundaram’s lean frame and shrill feminine voice defies his exceptional self sacrifice and extraordinary will power. Throughout his life he was engaged in uplifting the poor and needy by donating a huge part of his salary and sometimes his entire salary that he earned by working as a librarian. Kalyanasundaram was born in August 1953 in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. He lost his father at the age of one and was brought up by his mother who taught him the importance of helping the poor. Although he hailed from a rich agricultural family, he slept on pavements and railway platforms to know how it felt to be poor and without a roof over your head. He didn’t marry so that he could donate all that he earns.He found his calling in child welfare and while he was studying at the Madras University, he started the International Children’s Welfare Organisation to help slum children. That was his initiation into social service. His resolve was further strengthened when during the Indo China war, Pandit Nehru urged people to contribute to the defence fund. Large hearted Kalyanasundaram donated his gold chain to the National Defence Fund. His job as a librarian earned him Rs 140 out of which he would donate Rs 100 for children’s welfare and keep only Rs 40 as personal expenses. At a point of time, he wanted to donate his entire salary and therefore, did odd jobs in a hotel or a laundry to meet his daily needs. Not one for publicity, he continued like this for 27 years. However, in 1990 his good work came to the fore. When he received over Rs.1 lakh as arrears of his salary by the University Grants Commission, Kalyanasundaram donated it to the district collector for the higher education of orphans. The collector was impressed by his generosity and gave it wide coverage in the media. That is when his life’s work was noticed. When you do good, goodness will follow you. Kalyanasundaram was showered with  awards and recognition. The Government of India awarded him the best librarian prize. He was honoured as being the noblest by the International Biographical Centre, Cambridge. The United Nations declared him as the most outstanding people of the twentieth century. He was also honoured with the Man of the Millennium award by an American organisation. Not the one to be carried away by awards, the ever humble Kalyanasundaram donated his entire prize money, which amounted to around Rs 30 crore and didn’t keep a single penny for himself. After his retirement, Kalyanasundaram  founded an organisation called Palam which is dedicated towards the cause of the poor and the underprivileged. It serves as a link between the donors and the needy. It is the responsibility of the organization to collect money from the donors and distribute it to those who are in a need of money and assistance. Thus Kalyanasundaram’s life is a saga of self sacrifice and inspires every individual to do his bit for the society.

26 Jul 2017
Positive Reads

The triumph of human spirit – Joyita Mondal

Joyita Mondal, a transgender is an epitome of the power of human spirit. From being taunted and forced to beg for a living to being appointed to the bench of a National Lok Adalat, life has come full circle for this determined woman. Mondal was appointed to the bench of a National Lok Adalat in Uttar Dinajpur district of West Bengal on Saturday, 8th July. It was a moment of triumph over hardships when she drove into the Islampur court in a car bearing a red plaque stating ‘judgeship on duty’. Her appointment to the court called for celebrations among members of the entire community and LGBTQ population at large. Unlike her name, Joyita’s past was dark and without a trace of joy. Although she had joined a college in Kolkata, she had to drop out due to the relentless taunts of her classmates. To make ends meet, she worked at a call centre with a prominent national bank. Unfortunately, she was not spared there too. Though she never faced physical abuse, she was constantly subject to insensitive jokes and taunts that scarred her mind. People at the bank talked about her, stared and made fun of her to such an extent that one day she decided to call it quits. Left with no help, she was forced to beg for a living. She performed badhais at weddings and other ceremonies along with other members of her community. Once, she had to sleep in a bus stand after she was turned away by hotels because of her gender. The irony of the story is that the bus stand is just five minutes away from the court to which she is now appointed as a judge. Not one to resign to her fate, Joyita worked relentlessly as a social worker. She had visited Islampur for the first time while working for a self-help group (SHG) in Siliguri which was involved in raising awareness about HIV. She worked with nearly 200 transgender women in Islampur. She guided many of them in the field of geriatric care. She also designed courses in sewing and trained many of them to become beauticians. It was this rigorous social work in Islampur that elevated her to the bench of Lok Adalat. She is appointed by the office of the sub-divisional legal services committee of Islampur under the ‘learned judges’ category and at the Adalat, she will be working on cases related to bank loans. There is a saying - If you give life all you've got, life will return to you what you've never got. Joyita Mondal gave her all to life even though it had dealt a cruel blow on her. Today, life smiles back at her and she has earned all the respect that she longed for.  

11 Jul 2017
Positive Reads

Sister Nivedita - Saga of sacrifice

Sister Nivedita, whose real name was Margaret Nobel had come to India to serve the country even when it was a British colony. She was born to Samuel Nobel a priest and Mary Hamilton on October 28, 1867 in Ireland. Margaret and her sister went to Halifax College where she stayed in the college hostel. Her favorite subject was biology and she was also fond of music and art. Since a very early age she carried the desire to serve others. Her life changed when she met Swami Vivekanand at a friend's place in 1895. She was so influenced by his talks that she decided to leave her homeland and serve the people in India. In 1898, she came to Kolkata and quickly got familiarised with the place and its people. She put in efforts to learn Bengali and studied Bengali literature. On March 25, that year, Swami Vivekananda dedicated her to God and to the service of India. She was also given the name - Nivedita. As part of her mission to serve people, Nivedita started a small school, but found it difficult to get pupils.  It was very difficult to convince parents to send their girls to school in those days, but her persistence changed a few minds and finally she was able to teach a few girl students to read and write. She also guided them in drawing. Soon people began to accept her and they started calling her ' Sister Nivedita'.  When a devastating plague broke out in Kolkata in March 1899, Nivedita worked ceaselessly to free the city from this dangerous menace. She herself took the initiative to clean the roads and drains without any help. Soon the local people joined her and a committee of social workers was formed. Although her tireless work affected her health, she and her team were successful in controlling the spread of the disease. When Nivedita found it difficult to run her school due to lack of funds, she decided to go to the West to collect money. Later she returned and was joined by Christine Greenstidel from Germany in her mission. With her assistance, Nivedita's school started running again and both the ladies continued on their endeavour to educate girls and women. Nivedita's purpose of life was the liberation of India. She became a household name in Bengal and started addressing meetings all over the country exhorting people to join the freedom struggle. Her school was the centre of nationalism and Vande Mataram became the prayer song in her school. She started wearing khadi and spinning charkha became a way of life which was followed by her pupils as well. As Nivedita was artistically inclined, she brought about a revolution in Bengali art. While Indian painters were emulating the West, she goaded them to retain their Indianness and made them aware of their rich cultural heritage and the need to preserve it. Nivedita's life was one of sacrifice for India. She wore herself out through her unbroken, unending toil. Even today, there are many schools in India that are named after her. Let us not forget her supreme sacrifice for India.

5 May 2017
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Ramakrishna Paramahansa - The Apostle of India

The Ramakrishna Mission is well known all over the world as organizations that are run very efficiently and cater to people belonging to all religions, castes and faiths. However, large segments of Indian society do not know much about its founder, Ramakrishna Paramahansa. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, the story of Ramakrishna's life is a story of religion in practice. He was the living embodiment of Godliness and his life was an object lesson in ahimsa ( Non Violence). His love knew no limits, geographical or otherwise. Ramakrishna was born in a Brahmin family in Calcutta on February 17, 1836. It is said that when he was born, an astrologer had predicted that 'the child would reside in a temple, be revered by people, would found and be the head of a new religious order and would have numerous disciples'. The impressions and influence that he imbibed since childhood persisted for a long time, but during the course of his spiritual practice, he shed all inhibitions. He would partake of food served to beggars and freely mix with the lowest people including prostitutes. As Gandhiji did later, Ramakrishna Paramahansa often visited the homes of dalits and untouchables, cleaned their house and ate with them. His teachings came in the wake of a new spiritual awakening - an Indian renaissance. In those times, India had come under the influence of materialistic forces that questioned the existence of 'dharma' (religion) and India's spiritual heritage. It was Ramakrishna's broad outlook and metaphoric discourses that saved India from a major materialistic onslaught. His teachings could be comprehended by every person as it was not restricted to any religion, sect or nation. He believed in the religion of humanity and cut across all geographical, religious and racial barriers and boundaries. He stressed that only genuine mutual respect can help us realise the golden principle of 'Live and let live'. He always cautioned that the world belonged to God and not to human beings.  Through his teachings, seekers of all religions can find courage and faith, hope and illumination. One comes to know that man's sincere prayer is always answered and everyone becomes perfect through the grace of God. His words convey conviction about the inner divinity of man and the spiritual foundation of the universe. Knowledge, and not ritualistic religion was the cornerstone of Ramakrishna's philosophy. He inspired, among many others, German philosopher Max Muller and Nobel Prize winner French dramatist Romain Rolland. It was through such western scholars and later through his most beloved disciple, Swami Vivekananda, that the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramahansa spread throughout the world and drew many westerners to India.  

4 May 2017
Positive Reads

Birsa Munda: The legendary folk hero and freedom fighter

Birsa Munda belonged to the Munda tribe and was an Indian freedom fighter, religious leader and folk hero. What is remarkable is, he achieved this feat in a lifespan of only 25 years. He lived between1875–1900 and is remembered even to this day in tribal areas Bihar, West Bengal, Orissa and Madhya Pradesh. During the British Raj, in the late 19th century, Birsa Munda led an indigenous tribal religious millenarian movement in tribal areas of today’s Bihar and Jharkhand. Thus, he became a prominent figure in the history of the Indian independence struggle. He is the only tribal leader who is honoured in such a way that  his  portrait hangs in the Central Hall of the Indian parliament house. Birsa Munda Biography: Birsa Munda was born on 15 November 1875, at Ulihatu in colonial Bihar, now in the Khunti district of Jharkhand to Sugana Munda and Karmi Hatu. Some people believe that Birsa was born in Chalkad. His brother was Komta Munda.They were part of tribal agrarian system existing on those times. The Freedom Movement: The British Raj tried  transformation of the tribal agrarian system into a feudal type of state, which led to resentment among tribals. Due to this new system,  the tribals had lost their proprietary rights on lands, and were forced to be farm labourers. To resist this, Birsa Munda led series of revolts and uprisings against British. His struggle wanted to assert rights of the Mundas as the original proprietors of the land. He also wanted ouster of middlemen and the British Raj. The movement caught the imagination of the tribals  as never before and they resisted British tooth and nail under leadership of Birsa Munda. But Birsa was caught on 3 February 1900 due to treachery. Later, he died  mysteriously on 9 June 1900 in Ranchi Jail. The martyredome of Birsa  did not go in vain. The British realized their folly and they introduced laws so that the land of the tribals could not be taken away by the outsiders.  Also, the revolt  showed that the tribal people were capable of protesting against injustice and express their anger against British. Birsa Munda the Legend Today: Birth anniversary of Birsa Munda falls on 15 November. The official function is held at his Samadhi Sthal, at Kokar, Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand. It is marked by celebrations by tribal people of not only Bihar and Jharkhand, but also far off places including Mysore and Kodagu districts in Karnataka. Birsa Munda Legacy: There are a innumerable organizations which are named after him today. Prominent among them being  Birsa Munda Airport Ranchi, Birsa Agricultural University, Birsa Munda Vanvasi Chattravas, Sidho Kanho Birsha University, Purulia, and Birsa Institute of Technology Sindri, Kanpur. Keeping his brave spirit alive, Bihar Regiment of the Indian Army has adopted the war cry of ‘ Birsa Munda Ki Jai’ or Victory to Birsa Munda. By 15 November 2018, a 150-foot-tall statue of Birsa Munda will be built in Jharkland by stones collected from households in the region. Birsa Munda stands for modern values of freedom from oppression and rights of sons of soils. He not only  belongs to Jharkhand and Bihar but also to whole of India. He was a true son of India. Let all Indians know about him and be grateful to him for his sacrifice towards our motherland.  

28 Apr 2017
Positive Reads

Star Citizens

How a Colorblind Artist from Rural Pune Reached the World Stage of Art!

Born in rural Pune, with roots in Kolhapur, Prem Awale discovered his love for art in the most unexpected way. Growing up in a modest household—his father a watchman and his mother a homemaker—life was far from easy. But the vast open spaces in front of his home became his first canvas. As a child, he would grab pieces of charcoal from the kitchen and sketch on the walls, unknowingly laying the foundation for an incredible artistic journey.His mother was the first to recognize his talent. Despite financial struggles, she encouraged him to draw more. Unable to afford formal training, he began honing his skills by participating in local competitions. He used the prize money to buy better art supplies. Charcoal gave way to oil paints, and his fascination with art deepened.A Turning Point: The Florence Academy of ArtAfter years of perseverance, exhibitions, and competitions, he applied for the prestigious Florence Academy of Art’s Summer Scholarship Art Contest. Out of countless applicants worldwide, he was one of just three artists selected to attend the "Advanced Portrait" Workshop in Italy.Winning the scholarship was only half the battle. The costs of traveling and living in Florence seemed insurmountable. But friends, family, and mentors supported him. Source: Google ImagesA Month in the Mecca of ArtFlorence, the cradle of Renaissance art, was a revelation. In just one month at the Florence Academy, he learned techniques that would have taken years elsewhere. From temperature-controlled studios and premium art materials to lessons from world-renowned professors, the experience was nothing short of transformative.The city itself was a masterpiece. Art was everywhere—on the streets, in museums, and even in the air. His days were spent exploring the academy and soaking in Florence’s rich artistic heritage. He treasured every moment of it.Returning to India, his artistic journey soared to new heights. Recently, he won the prestigious 60th State Art Exhibition Competition organized by the Government of Maharashtra for his painting "The Hardworker." His work, inspired by his roots and his pursuit of excellence, now serves as a symbol of hope for aspiring artists.Reflecting on his journey, he believes art has immense potential for those willing to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly. Despite being born colorblind, he has proven that passion and perseverance can overcome even the toughest challenges.

28 Nov 2024
Star Citizens

''Grandmaster'': Achieving A Milestone In The Field Of Cinema

This year, Indian cinema’s highest accolade, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, will be bestowed upon the legendary Mithun Chakraborty, celebrating his extraordinary contribution to the film industry. Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, took to X on Monday to share the thrilling news, exclaiming, "Mithun Da's remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations!" The veteran actor, known for his iconic roles and unmatched versatility, will be honored at the 70th National Film Awards on October 8. This prestigious recognition marks a defining moment in Chakraborty’s illustrious career.Prime Minister Narendra Modi reshared the post and wrote on X, “Delighted that Shri Mithun Chakraborty Ji has been conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognizing his unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema. He is a cultural icon, admired across generations for his versatile performances. Congratulations and best wishes to him.”The Master Of Leaving A Mark Everywhere He Went  ~(Source: Google Images) Formerly a prominent figure in the 1980s, Chakraborty's on-screen persona has diminished in recent times. Despite appearing in Bengali movies such as Kabuliwala (2023) and Projapati (2022), his final Hindi film appearance was the contentious The Kashmir Files (2022). From 2009 until 2018, he also held the position of head judge, or "grandmaster," on the well-known dancing reality series dancing India Dance.The actor popularly known as "Mithun Da" debuted in the 1976 film Mrigayaa, directed by Mrinal Sen, for which he was nominated for a National Award for Best Actor. For his roles in the 1992 film Tahader Katha (best actor) and the 1998 film Swami Vivekananda (best-supporting actor), he won two more National Awards.But Mithun Da's real claim to fame was his unique dancing in the 1982 smash tune Disco Dancer, which is largely recognized for kicking off the disco dance movement in India with hits like "I Am A Disco Dancer." ~ legit all eyes on him when this song plays whenever and wherever !

1 Oct 2024
Star Citizens

What Happens When Compassion Meets Action? Discover the Helpdrive Revolution!

In the heart of Gujarat, a movement for compassion and social justice is growing stronger every day. Founded in 2019 by Tarun Mishra, the Helpdrive Foundation has become a leading force in advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized communities. What began as a simple desire to help those in need has blossomed into a powerful organization with a mission to empower women and children, support the elderly, and improve the livelihoods of all living beings.Tarun Mishra's journey into social work was inspired by his childhood experiences. Growing up, he often saw people selling balloons or begging on the streets. This left a lasting impression on him, fueling a deep sense of compassion and a desire to help. This simple yet profound desire led to the creation of Helpdrive Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing support to those who need it most.Expanding HorizonsSince its launch, Helpdrive Foundation has broadened its scope to tackle various social issues. Initially focused on supporting orphanages and championing child rights, the foundation rapidly evolved to include efforts in empowering women, aiding the elderly, and enhancing animal welfare. One of the most impactful initiatives of Helpdrive Foundation is its work with the urban homeless. With the support of the government and public, the foundation runs shelter homes that provide food, clothing, medical care, and a safe, hygienic environment for those in need. These shelters offer more than just physical necessities; they provide a sense of belonging and connection to individuals. In these safe spaces, residents find solace in the company of others who have undergone similar struggles. They celebrate festivals and religious activities together, fostering a supportive and uplifting community.Source: Google ImagesA Community EffortThe success of Helpdrive Foundation is not just due to the efforts of Tarun Mishra and his team but also to the many volunteers who have joined the cause. These dedicated individuals offer companionship, lend a listening ear, and provide emotional support to those in the shelters, improving their mental well-being. Through social media, the foundation spreads messages of humanity and motivates youth and others to get involved in making a difference. "Our tagline, 'Our little time can change someone’s life,' is all about how our organization grew," Mishra explains.Staying True to the MissionDespite the diverse range of programs and initiatives that Helpdrive Foundation has developed over the years, Mishra and his team remain committed to their founding principles. The organization's growth has been organic, driven by a deep belief in the power of compassion and the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need. "Initially, I never thought that this organization would grow this broad," Mishra reflects. But as the foundation's impact grew, so did its reach, touching the lives of countless individuals across Gujarat.At the heart of Helpdrive Foundation's success is a simple yet powerful truth: the best way to live a life is by extending our hands to make at least one life beautiful. Through their work, Tarun Mishra and his team have not only made a difference in the lives of those they serve but have also inspired others to do the same. 

16 Aug 2024
Star Citizens

Unbreakable Spirit: The Inspiring Story of IAS Ritika Jindal

From the small city of Moga in Punjab, Ritika Jindal’s brilliance shone through from a young age. Known for her academic excellence, she topped the CBSE 12th Board exams, securing the highest marks in North India. Her academic journey led her to Sri Ram College of Commerce in Delhi, where she pursued her graduation and began her preparations for the UPSC exams in her third year. Facing Family Tragedy During this crucial phase of her preparation, Ritika faced an unimaginable challenge. Her father was diagnosed with oral and lung cancer. Balancing her studies and her role as a caregiver, Ritika often found herself studying in hospital rooms. Despite the overwhelming circumstances, she remained focused on her goal.  First Attempt and Setbacks Ritika's first attempt at the UPSC exams did not go as planned. However, she did not let this setback deter her spirit. With renewed determination, she continued her rigorous preparation, inspired by her father's courageous battle against cancer. In 2019, Ritika's hard work paid off. At just 22 years of age, she cleared the UPSC exams, securing the 88th rank, and became one of India’s youngest IAS officers. Her success was the result of her resilience and dedication, but it came with a heavy heart as both her parents passed away during her IAS training. In an interview reflecting on her journey, Ritika shared, “Seeing my father fighting for life gave me a lot of strength, and I worked hard for the exam.” Her words resonate with the indomitable spirit she embodied throughout her preparation and the challenges she faced. Source: Google Images A New Beginning in Pangi Currently, Ritika is serving as the Resident Commissioner in Pangi, Himachal Pradesh.  Pangi presents its own set of challenges due to its treacherous roads and remote villages. Ritika’s posting in this challenging location highlights her remarkable ability to confront and overcome obstacles, regardless of the circumstances. Ritika Jindal, IAS, UPSC, inspiration, perseverance, Punjab, Pangi, Himachal Pradesh

24 Jul 2024
Star Citizens

This Amazing New Initiative Promotes Plastic-Free Community Feasts!

In an effort to combat the growing plastic waste problem, the village of Kurumunda in Nuapada district has introduced a unique initiative called the 'Bartan Bank.' This bank aims to promote plastic-free community feasts by providing utensils free of cost. The 'Bartan Bank,' spearheaded by sarpanch Saroj Devi, is a community-led project that aims to reduce the use of single-use plastics during social and religious celebrations. The gram panchayat allocated Rs 75,000 from the village funds to create a depot of utensils, including large cooking vessels, steel plates, bowls, glasses, and spoons. During the wedding season and other festivities, villagers can now borrow these utensils from the 'Bartan Bank' instead of relying on disposable plastic plates and cutlery. The initiative not only eliminates the need for purchasing plastic items but also addresses the challenges associated with plastic waste disposal and the risk of animals ingesting it. To ensure transparency, the procurement process involved active participation from villagers and gram panchayat officials. The success of the 'Bartan Bank' in Kurumunda has encouraged plans for its replication throughout the Bhaleswar panchayat, which comprises nine villages. Village elders, with the assistance of youth, will oversee the management of these banks. This sustainable initiative is a significant step towards promoting eco-friendly practices and reducing plastic pollution in Kurumunda. By embracing the concept of a 'Bartan Bank,' the village aims to set an example for other communities and inspire them to adopt similar measures.

28 Nov 2023
Star Citizens

Embarking on a Journey of Compassion: The Inspiring Life of Acharya Chandanaji

Belonging to the Amarmuni Sampradaya, a Jain monastic lineage, Acharya Chandana holds a unique distinction. Her lineage is renowned as the only one that has ever promoted a nun to the esteemed rank of Acharya. From a young age, her path was set, as at fourteen, she renounced worldly pleasures, embraced Jain diksha, and transformed into Sadhvi Chandana For twelve years, she observed a vow of silence, dedicated to the profound study of Jain scriptures, life's meaning, and various religions. Acharya Chandana's pursuit of knowledge led her to attain degrees in diverse subjects and titles such as Shastri from Banaras Hindu University. Her mission of humanitarian service began in the poverty-stricken corners of Bihar in 1972. In the following year, she founded Veerayatan, a non-profit organization that now operates across ten countries. Veerayatan is dedicated to three pillars: Seva (service to humanity), Shiksha (education for all), and Sadhana (self-development), offering hope to millions. Acharya Chandana's compassion has transcended borders. In 1998, she traveled to Cleveland, Ohio, where her contributions to peace were recognized. Veerayatan's impact is visible through hospitals, schools, colleges, and vocational training programs across India, striving to uplift the underprivileged. Acharya Chandana was awarded the Padma Shri in 2022. She has dedicated her life to relieving suffering, believing that it is a profound expression of spirituality. Her legacy shines as bright as the words inscribed on Veerayatan's website: "Veerayatan, a holy place dedicated to Lord Mahavir, serves all, irrespective of socio-economic-religious classes." Acharya Chandanaji's story is an inspiration, reminding us that the path of kindness and service can lead to greatness. As we reflect on the awe-inspiring journey of Acharya Chandanaji, it's impossible not to draw parallels with the divine symbolism of Navratri, particularly the ninth day, dedicated to Goddess Siddhidhatri, the bestower of Siddhis or divine powers. Much like the goddess, Acharya Chandanaji radiates boundless grace and strength. Her unwavering commitment to humanitarian service, selfless devotion, and tireless efforts to uplift the underprivileged mirror the divine qualities of Siddhidhatri.

22 Oct 2023
Star Citizens

India Love Project Recognized for Promoting Pluralism: Shortlisted for Prestigious Global Award

In a remarkable achievement, the India Love Project has been shortlisted as one of the finalists for the prestigious Global Pluralism Award. This recognition highlights the project's commendable efforts in countering prejudice and promoting inclusivity by sharing positive stories of love and marriage that transcend traditional boundaries. Founded by renowned journalists Priya Ramani, Samar Halarnkar, and writer Niloufer Venkatraman, the India Love Project aims to break societal barriers and stereotypes by showcasing narratives that defy the limitations of faith, caste, ethnicity, and gender. Their initiative has resonated with people across the nation and garnered international acclaim. The Global Pluralism Award, organized by the Global Centre for Pluralism, selected the India Love Project from a pool of 200 submissions representing 60 countries. The finalists represent a diverse range of disciplines, including peacebuilding, translation, social enterprise, sports therapy, storytelling, and technology. Their collective mission is to strengthen pluralism and foster more inclusive and peaceful societies. Meredith Preston McGhie, Secretary General of the Global Centre for Pluralism, emphasized the significance of these finalists in a time of increasing polarization worldwide. She commended their creativity, courage, and commitment, underscoring the urgent need for more leaders who champion diversity and inclusivity. The winners of the Global Pluralism Award, along with the honorable mention recipients, will be announced in October and honored at a ceremony in November in Ottawa, Canada. Each winner will receive a prize of $50,000 (CAD) to further their work in support of pluralism. The India Love Project's recognition as a finalist for this esteemed award not only acknowledges their impactful work but also inspires others to follow their example and take action in creating a more inclusive and accepting society. 

22 Sep 2023
Star Citizens

The Story of Mattur Nandakumara: How a Passion for Teaching Led to a Lifetime of Achievement

Mattur Nandakumara, a Sanskrit scholar, hailing from the village of Mattur in Shivamogga, has been chosen for the prestigious Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Nandakumara is an ambassador for India’s art, culture, and philosophy, and is recognized as one of the top 100 influential Asians in the United Kingdom. His journey to success is one of hard work and determination. Nandakumara started off as a Sanskrit teacher earning only Rs 475 per month. When he didn't receive his salary for the first eight months, he covered his expenses by giving tuition to students who needed help with Sanskrit. Teaching became his passion, and he was content with it. Nandakumara went on to do his Masters in Sanskrit, scoring 4th rank in university. He became a Sanskrit teacher at Raghavendra High School in Bengaluru. His love for teaching led him to fill in as a Kannada grammar teacher when there was a shortage and was very popular among the students. A French lady, Jenine Miller, who was studying the Vedas under him, offered to host Nandakumara if he intended to take up further studies in London. Almost at the same time, his uncle suggested that he do his Ph.D. in London. So, he travelled to London and completed his Ph.D. John Marr, his guide there, was a big influence on him. Nandakumara went on to teach Sanskrit at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in London and was appointed as academic director there later. He became the head of the institution after the retirement of his uncle. His immense efforts in shaping the Bhavan have been acknowledged by Sudha Murthy, who described him as a humble poet and scholar. Nandakumara's recognition and respect as an MBE recipient are well-deserved. He has created a unique homely atmosphere for Indian art and culture in London. He teaches a variety of art forms, including classical music, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, and Odissi. He even teaches Ramayana and Mahabharata on weekends. His journey is an inspiration to all those who believe in hard work, determination, and a passion for teaching.

26 Apr 2023
Star Citizens

Can One Man Save India's Water Crisis? Engineer Restores More Than a Hundred Lakes

Nimal Raghavan, a 35-year-old engineer from Tamil Nadu, has made it his mission to rejuvenate lakes across India. He has already restored 142 lakes, including his first project, the 565-acre Periyakulam, and a lake for the Indian Army. Raghavan's latest project is the Kenikarai lake restoration, which is mostly crowdfunded and expected to solve the problem of saltwater intrusion in the region. His NGO, MEGA Foundation, is dedicated to restoring waterbodies across India, which are depleting rapidly due to declining groundwater levels and rising salinity. Raghavan's journey began after the Gaja Cyclone hit Tamil Nadu in 2018 and he realized that the biggest problem in the region was water shortage. Restoring lakes was the sustainable answer, and he plunged into it, with the help of NGOs and crowdfunding. Despite facing challenges, such as skepticism about his intentions and financial constraints, Raghavan has garnered goodwill with each lake he revives. People have come to respect water bodies. “Water is god, and the moment it seeps into the restored lake, you only feel like bowing and showering flowers into it,” Raghavan said. He doesn't intend to stop until there isn't a single waterbody in India left to heal. Raghavan's work is crucial in the face of the declining groundwater levels in India. According to a study by the Central Ground Water Board, the groundwater level in India declined by 61% between 2007 and 2017. Raghavan's efforts not only restore waterbodies but also raise awareness about good practices to protect them. His work also involves creating artificial landfills around the restored lakes, which ensure the forest cycle continues. Raghavan's next project will be in Kenya, where he will work with the Green Africa Foundation to restore as many lakes as possible. Overall, Nimal Raghavan's work is an inspiration and a reminder of the power of individual action in making a positive impact on the environment.

12 Apr 2023
Star Citizens

French Woman’s Passion for Indian Classical Art Leads to Enchanting Performance

In a heartwarming display of cultural exchange, a 72-year-old French woman named Shakuntala recently wowed a crowd with her ‘arangettam’ in Koodiyattam at the Pangavu Siva Temple in Cheruthuruthy, India. Despite not knowing Malayalam or Sanskrit, Shakuntala's near 90-minute performance as Lalitha from the ‘Shoorpanakhankam’ drama was nothing short of enchanting. Shakuntala's journey to Koodiyattam began in 2016 when she attended a workshop in Paris under the auspices of Kerala Kalamandalam, which sparked her interest in the traditional performing art form of Kerala. From there, she made regular trips to Cheruthuruthy to learn Koodiyattam under the tutelage of Dr Kalamandalam Krishnendu, attending 20 two-hour-long classes each year since 2018. Shakuntala's background in Bharatanatyam, which she learned under the renowned V S Muthuswamy Pillai in Chennai, adds to the remarkable nature of her story. In Paris, she regularly conducts workshops as a Bharatanatyam teacher, while her husband, Francis, is a devoted supporter of her artistic passion. Shakuntala's arangettam highlights the beauty and power of cultural exchange and the universal language of art. Koodiyattam combines ancient Sanskrit theatre with elements of Koothu, an ancient performing art from the Sangam era, and is recognised as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Shakuntala's journey shows that art has no boundaries, and the pursuit of passion and learning can lead to beautiful and unexpected experiences.

5 Apr 2023
Star Citizens

The Voice That Conquered Hearts: Suman Kalyanpur's Musical Odyssey

In the golden era of Hindi film music in the 1960s and 1970s, there were many great singers, but only a few left a lasting impact on the hearts of millions of music lovers. Suman Kalyanpur, with her soulful voice and melodious renditions, was one such singer who continues to be an inspiration to aspiring singers even today. This year, Suman Kalyanpur received the Padma Bhushan, the nation's third-highest civilian award, from the honorable President Droupadi Murmu, a testament to her remarkable career spanning over five decades. She was considered the best in the industry even while there were so-called legends. Suman Kalyanpur began her career in 1954 with her debut song "Koi Pukare Dheere Se Tujhe" for the film Mangu. From then on, she never looked back. She went on to sing for movies in several languages such as Hindi, Marathi, Assamese, Gujarati, Kannada, Maithili, Bhojpuri, Rajasthani, Bengali, Odia, and Punjabi.  The Marathi language has witnessed a musical revolution with an array of unforgettable songs that have left an indelible mark on people's hearts. Among the many gems, "Nimbonichya Zadamaage," "Jithe Sagara Dharni Milte," "Are Sansara" and Ketakichya Bani Tithe Nachla Mor" have reached soaring heights of popularity, captivating audiences with their enchanting melodies and soulful lyrics. These songs have become an integral part of Marathi culture, evoking intense emotions and memories that will stay with us forever. She collaborated with some of the greatest singers of her time, such as Mohammed Rafi, Mukesh, Hemant Kumar, and Manna Dey, and made significant contributions to the Indian music industry. Suman Kalyanpur's voice touched the hearts of many music lovers. Her unique identity in the industry was carved out of her immense talent and hard work. She was one of the most respected singers in the Indian music industry and received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. Suman Kalyanpur and Mohammed Rafi performed over 140 duets together, with "Aaj Kal Tere Mere" possibly being the best. She has sung for some of the most iconic songs in Hindi cinema, leaving a legacy that will live on forever. Some notable songs are "Parbaton Ke Pedon Par" (Shagun, 1964), "Tumne Pukara Aur Hum Chale Aaye" (Rajkumar, 1964), "Baad Muddat Ke Yeh Ghadi Aaye" (Jahan Ara, 1964), and "Mohabbat Isko Kehte Hain" (1965). Suman Kalyanpur's unbridled love for music and unwavering commitment to her artistry has ignited a spark of inspiration in the hearts of millions. Her musical legacy is set to blaze a trail that will last an eternity, serving as a guiding light for generations to come.

25 Mar 2023
Star Citizens

Meet the Mastermind Behind India's Burgeoning Space Industry

Pawan Kumar Chandana is a leading figure in India's burgeoning space industry as the Co-founder and CEO of Skyroot Aerospace. The company is at the forefront of developing and manufacturing launch vehicles for small satellites, a sector that has seen rapid growth in recent years.   Chandana, who holds a master's degree in Thermal Science & Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, has been passionate about space since childhood. He worked at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for several years before co-founding Skyroot Aerospace in 2018 with fellow IIT Madras graduate Naga Bharath Daka.   Under Chandana's leadership, Skyroot Aerospace has achieved several milestones, including the successful test-firing of its Vikram-1 rocket engine in 2022. The engine, named after Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the Indian space program, uses a unique propulsion technology that reduces the weight and cost of launch vehicles while increasing their efficiency.   Skyroot Aerospace has also secured multiple contracts with the Indian Space Research Organisation and private companies to launch satellites into orbit. The company is currently developing a family of launch vehicles, including the Vikram series and the Rohini series, which can carry payloads of up to 700 kilograms and 3500 kilograms, respectively.   Chandana and Skyroot Aerospace are paving the way for India's space industry, demonstrating that the country has the expertise and technology to compete on a global scale. With Chandana's leadership and vision, Skyroot Aerospace is poised to become a major player in the small satellite launch market, and the future of India's space program looks brighter than ever.

27 Feb 2023
Star Citizens

Neal Mohan: The New CEO of YouTube

Neal Mohan, an Indian-American technology executive, has been appointed as the new CEO of YouTube, replacing Susan Wojcicki. This announcement comes as a significant move for the company and the technology industry as a whole.    Mohan worked with Google, YouTube's parent company, from 2008 to 2015 as the Senior Vice President, and later on moved to the YouTube team as the Chief Product Officer. During his tenure, he played a significant role in scaling YouTube's advertising business and growing its user base to over two billion active users.   The new appointment comes at a time when YouTube is facing increased scrutiny over its content moderation policies and growing competition from other video-sharing platforms. As the new CEO, Mohan's top priority will be to address these issues and ensure that YouTube remains the most popular video-sharing platform in the world.   Mohan has a deep understanding of YouTube's business model and is well-equipped to lead the company through these challenging times. Under his leadership, YouTube has launched a number of successful products and features, including YouTube Music, YouTube TV, YouTube Premium, YouTube Shorts, Super Chat, Super Stickers, and channel memberships. He has been instrumental in driving YouTube's growth and monetization strategy, which has helped the company generate billions of dollars in revenue.   Neal Mohan's appointment marks a significant moment for the Indian-American community, which has been making waves in the tech industry in recent years. He joins a growing list of Indian-American tech leaders who have risen to prominence in Silicon Valley, including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Google CEO Sundar Pichai and others. 

17 Feb 2023
Star Citizens

From Tech Giant to Eco Warrior: Arun Krishnamurthy’s Journey to Revitalizing India’s Lakes

Arun Krishnamurthy is a true environmental champion, dedicating his days to the cause he's most passionate about - preserving and restoring freshwater lakes and ponds throughout India.  As the founder of the Chennai-based Environmentalist Foundation of India (E.F.I), which he launched in 2007, Arun has made it his mission to positively impact the environment. He even left behind his successful corporate career at Google to fully immerse himself in this important work. Over the past 15 years, the organization has successfully restored and revitalized 195 water bodies, with the help of 82,000 volunteers and a team of 20 full-time members. It all started when as a teenager, Arun noticed a pond near his home was deteriorating. He addressed the issue with the village Panchayat who were very supportive and helped in the restoration of the pond. That's when he realized that people want to make a change but do not know how to begin.  Steps involved in lake restoration include cleaning the periphery of the lake of physical garbage, identifying and regulating sources of sewage to prevent contamination, dredging and de-silting the lake to remove deposits and strengthen the bunds, planting native species on the lake bund, and fencing the lake to protect aquatic flora and fauna from encroachment and trash accumulation. Arun also visits schools and colleges to spread awareness as he believes that engaging the people and sensitizing them about the importance of environment conservation is crucial and that the youth play a major role in the journey towards conserving the environment. 'Time' magazine named 36-year-old Arun Krishnamurthy as one of their "Next Generation Leaders" for 2022. In 2012, Arun received the Rolex Award for Enterprise for his work on lake restoration in Chennai and was the youngest recipient of the award. He was also mentioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his 'Mann Ki Baat' speech in March 2022.

23 Jan 2023
Star Citizens

Chetana Sinha – Her Power of Empathy Made Her the Founder of India’s First Women’s Cooperative Bank

Chetana Sinha, a humble, but strong woman with grit and determination opened India’s first cooperative bank for women. Born and brought up in the throbbing Mumbai city, the spirit of activism and social change were kindled in her early on. It all started way back in the 1990s when some women asked Sinha for assistance. According to Sinha, all they sought was to open a savings account, but due to their "low-savings format," they were turned down. She decided to assist them in establishing a cooperative bank. However, the central bank rejected their idea because the women were illiterate. Not to be let down, these remarkable ladies took it upon themselves to learn to read and write. After six months, the cooperative received approval, and Mann Deshi Bank was established.   This happened to be just the beginning as Sinha went on to launch many more initiatives as a solution to varied problems. As many talented women didn’t know how to market their products, Sinha started a business school for them. She also launched the community radio to provide a platform for women to share their stories of triumph and encourage families to support women. For being a beacon of hope and inspiration to countless women, Sinha has won innumerable recognition and awards including the Nari Shakti Puraskar, India's highest civilian award for women who work in the area of women's empowerment. 

14 Nov 2022
Star Citizens

This Young Man Dropped Out of College and Became a Millionaire Following His Dream

Sanjith Konda House dreamt of a cushy corporate job while studying Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA) at a leading Australian University. However, midway the 22-year-old  dropped out and decided to become a tea-seller (Chaiwala) in Melbourne. So, on a busy Sunday morning, one can now find Indians, native Australians, and a few Hispanics sipping steaming cups of tea in Melbourne's busy CBD (Central Business District). The little tea shop has grown to be a favorite gathering spot for Indian ex-pats. Nellore-born Sanjith came up with this idea when his mother visited him and longed to drink Indian tea in Australia. Asrar, an NRI agreed to become an angel investor. In just over a year, his startup "Dropout Chaiwala," has grown to be a company worth a million (Australian) dollars. Sanjith continues to import tea from India as he wishes to give the locals a taste of authentic Indian tea. The 'Bombay Cutting' is a big hit among the Indian community while the Australians love Indian 'masala chai' and 'pakodas'.  Sanjith claims that he hires Indian students so that such part-time jobs can supplement their income while living in a foreign country. When hiring new employees, Dropout Chaiwala prioritizes hard work and passion over academic credentials, states Sanjith who aspires to open a location of his tea shop in each Australian city. Sanjith now intends to complete his degree in social work, an area he is passionate about.

9 Nov 2022
Star Citizens

This Iron Lady Treks Treacherous Terrain to Render Education Facilities to the Remotest Ladakh Villages

Sujata Sahu, a teacher in a reputed Delhi school was out on a solo trek in Ladakh when due to her deteriorating health, she took shelter in a school. She was surprised to know that the school was attended by a few kids regularly and teachers trekked through mountains to get the books and uniforms. Sahu was full of admiration for the people of Ladakh, who in spite of very difficult terrain and extremely harsh weather, were trying their best to improve their condition. Many parents sent their children to private schools which were so far away that they had to stay in hostels and dormitories. Due to lack of proper guidance, many of them dropped out and many couldn’t return to their roots. 17000 ft Foundation The determination to come to school and learn, the eagerness of the teacher to learn something new to teach his students and the aspiration of the parents to educate their children was my inspired Sahu to drop everything and help those amazing people. Along with the tremendous support from husband Sandeep Sahu and a Ladakhi businessman Dawa Jora she set up the ‘17000 ft foundation’. She started off on her mission to provide Ladakh government schools with the right resources to further the education of their students. She introduced playgrounds and libraries which were accessed by the children with great enthusiasm. Sahu and her team persisted with their efforts to upgrade the government schools in the region with positive results. Locals now don’t send their children far away from their roots to private schools, but put them in the government school in their area. Voluntourism Sujata Sahu had started encouraging volunteers to participate in the mission to provide better education to the children of remote areas in Ladakh. Her team of volunteers mapped around 600 schools after a seven-month-long study. The success of the volunteer programmes helped the foundation grow and each of these schools has been geo-mapped for travellers to find. Outsiders showed enthusiasm and support for the project and also donated regularly for the cause. Digilabs were introduced in schools which helped children get to know about the world from which they were cut off due to their geographical location. Sujata Sahu’s undying passion to educate the children living in the remote regions of Ladakh earned her the title of Iron Lady. Recently, her organisation ‘17000 ft Foundation’ electrified and digitized 120 schools in Leh and Kargil, providing solar electricity and tablets with customized digital learning content, a TV, and a server to provide offline data syncing. She now wishes to continue with her efforts for the children residing in the harsh mountainous regions of Arunachal Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. Image Source: ScooNews

24 Nov 2019
Star Citizens

This Constable Goes the Extra Mile for the Safety of Commuters

Potholes are a big hassle for commuters as they slow down driving and also lead to traffic jams. Potholes as big and deep as craters have even taken lives of commuters and pose a big risk while commuting on bikes leading to accidents some of which are fatal. Ludhiana’s traffic constable Gurbaksh Singh was witness to an accident which made him make up his mind to fill potholes for the safety of commuters. Filling Up Potholes Gurbaksh Singh collects mud, bricks, and interlocking tiles from different parts of the city and carries it in his car trunk to the roads that are riddled with potholes in Bhatinda, Punjab. He single-handedly fixes them and sometimes fellow constables also lend a hand to his noble efforts. He not only fixes the potholes but also clears glass shards if he notices them strewn on the road. So far, he has filled potholes on Bhagu Road, Liberty Chowk, Dana Mandi and the highway leading to his village, Buladhewala. Responsible Citizen Gurbaksh Singh said that he started this mission of fixing potholes when he saw an accident where the biker and pillion rider fell on account of a pothole. They narrowly missed being run over by another vehicle on that road. This incident shook him and he embarked on this mission of filling potholes in addition to his duty as a traffic constable. He has been appreciated for his efforts not only by the state police but also by commuters who are grateful to him for making their ride safe. One commuter even exclaimed that he is doing a double job on a single person’s salary. However, all that Gurbaksh wishes is the safety of commuters and so he is doing his bit for the society.

5 Nov 2019
Star Citizens

This Hunger Warrior Doesn’t Want a Single Child to Go Hungry

When India is making giant strides in progress and development, it is sad that more than 600 million people in the country still go to bed hungry while many cannot afford even a proper meal in a day. The number of malnourished children in the country is also alarming. The government is doing its best to help the poor and hungry people by providing them food through midday meals and Indira canteens. However, it has not been able to successfully alleviate the problem. Therefore, many responsible and concerned citizens have pitched in to feed the hungry and one such person is Chinu Kwatra.  Roti Ghar Chinu Kwatra is an MBA graduate and founder of Roti Ghar which he commenced with the help of a few volunteers from his NGO Khushiyaan Foundation. He first started with a centralized kitchen that was monitored by his father. Initially, they fed a hundred children in a day. Along with food, he also thought them basic hygiene. It became his primary aim to provide marginalized sections with nutrition-packed meals. Soon the number increased to 1000 children and he hopes to extend his service to other states as well. Noble Initiative Kwatra started this noble initiative with many important things in his mind. First of all, he didn’t want to harm the environment, so he told the children to bring their own vessels. Along with rice, dal and pickle, he has also started serving a boiled egg, keeping in mind the nutritional requirements of the children. The volunteers taught them some basic rules like forming a queue and washing hands before eating. They also provided them with toothpaste, toothbrush and sanitary pads for menstrual hygiene. Kwatra now intends to start medical camps for the benefit of the less fortunate children. The country needs more such dedicated people like Chinu Kwatra and his team who are sacrificing their time, energy and resources to pacify the hunger of underprivileged children.

25 Oct 2019
Star Citizens

Babasaheb Purandare – The Writer Whose Work Transports Us to the Times of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

97-year-old Balwant Moreshwar Pundare, popularly known as Babasaheb Purandare is a renowned writer and theatre personality from Maharashtra who has made an unparalleled contribution to the history of Maharashtra. Purandare has written numerous books and plays on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great Maratha warrior and 17th-century founder of the Maratha Empire. His book - Raja Shivchatrapati - based on the life and times of Chhatrapati Shivaji is widely read. He is best known for his play Janata Raja which is also based on the life of Shivaji. Ever since Janata Raja was first staged in 1985, the drama has been staged over 864 times in 16 districts of Maharashtra, Agra, Delhi, Bhopal, and the United States. The play was later translated to Hindi for wider reach.  Purundare started writing stories about Shivaji at a very young age. He compiled these stories into a book called ‘Thingya’ which means ‘Sparks’. He is also the author of Raja Shiva-Chatrapati and Kesari. He has also written a book on the life of Narayanrao Peshwa. Purundare’s work is largely based on the events related to Shivaji Maharaj’s life due to which he has earned the title ‘Shiv Shahir’ (Shivaji’s Bard). He is also the recipient of Maharashtra Bhushan Award, Maharashtra’s highest civilian award. For the last three-quarters of the century, Purandare has presented the romanticized life and times of Shivaji through his works and speeches. For his outstanding work, Purandare has been awarded the Padma Vibhushan this year. Image Source: HappyAging.in

10 Sep 2019
Star Citizens

The Amazing Story of Ilma Afroz, a Farmer’s Daughter Who Left New York to Become IPS Officer in India

Ilma Afroz lived with her younger brother and parents in a small village in Kundarki in Uttar Pradesh. Fate dealt a blow when her father passed away when she was only 14 years old. Her strong-willed mother defied the norm of marrying away her daughter and instead chose to educate her so that she realizes her potential. A Brilliant Student Ilma Afroz after completing her high school education sought admission in St. Stephen’s College, Delhi where she studied philosophy. Ilma recounts that those days were the best days of her life where she learned to give shape to an argument, write convincingly and listen patiently. Her hard work and determination took her to Oxford University for higher studies. There she was exposed to more debates and discussions which gave her a perspective of world views. Life’s Purpose Ilma later went to New York and it was there that she realized her purpose in life. She narrates that every single day she would come back to her downtown Manhattan room and yearn for her home and the smile on her Ammi’s face. One day, in her office, she wondered whether her mother was destined to wait for her all alone in Kundarki and remembered the efforts that her near and dear ones put in so that she could succeed in life. She recollected how when she would visit her village, her village folks would be so delighted to see her thinking that she will alleviate their sufferings. That is when she made up her mind to return to her home and serve her country. Soon 26-year-old Ilma was back in India and preparing for Civil Services Exam. She cracked it in 2017 claiming 217th rank which is no mean feat and joined the Indian Police Service (IPS). Ilma Afroz motivates and inspires the youth to utilize their education and skills for the service and betterment of the country. Image Source: YouTube

2 Sep 2019
Star Citizens

Teejan Bai – The Connoisseur of Pandavani Art Who Fought All Odds to Keep Her Passion Alive

As a young girl, Teejan Bai would listen to her grandmother sing stories from the Mahabharata which was recited in Chattisgarhi Hindi. She was so fascinated by the musical rendition that she soon memorized it and later got herself informally trained in this art which is called Pandavani. She gave her first performance in a neighbouring village at the age of 13 and then there was no looking back. There are generally two styles of singing Pandavani- one is the Vedamati style in which traditionally women would sit and sing. The other is the Kapalik shaili (style) which only men performed while standing. Teejan Bai defied tradition and became the first woman to adopt the Kapalik style of singing for which she faced much opposition. Teejan Bai sang with such enthusiasm and unmistakable verve that she instantly became a hit and was invited to sing at numerous occasions and festivals even in neighbouring villages. Her lucky break came when she was noticed by poet and actor Habib Tanvir who was impressed by her talent and he invited her to perform for then Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi. She received national and international recognition and as a cultural ambassador, she flew to countries as far as England, France, Switzerland, Germany, Turkey, Tunisia, Malta, Cyprus, Romania and Mauritius. For her bold stand on singing Pandavani which was generally performed by men, Teejan Bai was expelled by her community. Not to be deterred by exclusion, she built herself a small hut and started living on her own, but never stopped singing Pandavani which had by now become a way of life. For the proficiency in her art and her immense talent, Teejan Bai was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1995, Padma Shri in 1988, and Padma Bhushan in 2003. This year she was conferred with Padma Vibhushan- nation’s second-highest civilian honour. Teejan Bai, now 63, feels honoured and grateful for the awards bestowed on her. She wishes to preserve this culture and art of Chattisgarh and is therefore, teaching Pandavani art to the young generation. She has already trained more than 200 girls and will continue to remain an inspiration to young art lovers.

22 Aug 2019
Star Citizens

14 YO Boy Who Defeated Cancer Performs Remarkably at International Games

Life takes a completely different turn for those who are diagnosed with a serious disease but, it also makes one stronger. It takes a lot to come out of cancer and beat it. 14-year-old Hritik Machaiah Alamanda did not give up easily when he came to know that he has cancer, he remained strong throughout the journey and defeated it. And not just that, he also achieved a phenomenal feat. The Great Achievement The brave kid participated in World Children’s Winners Games 2019 which was held in Moscow and was organized for cancer survivors. 10 Indian kids were a part of it and Hritik was the only one from Karnataka. He aced it in the competition and bagged gold in swimming and silver in chess as reported by TOI. The Difficult Phase Back in December 2016, Hritik was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in his right knee at Tata Hospital in Mumbai. His treatment kept stretching in 2017 and he was referred to Bengaluru’s Cytecare Hospital for the rest of the treatment. It was quite difficult for the little guy and his family to cope with everything but, they stayed positive throughout and finally in December 2017, he was declared cancer-free. While talking about the difficult phase, Hritik’s mother, Reena Bheemaiah told TOI: “Initially it was devastating. It was too hard even to accept it, but we decided to be fiercely positive no matter what. We would keep saying everything will work out. I would ask him to repeat that he is going to be fine.” Days were tough for Hritik but, he emerged stronger and achieved something remarkable. The little guy today has taught us that nothing can make us weak if we have the will power to surpass the difficulties. Image Courtesy: Mohan Devaiah Alamanda Facebook

31 Jul 2019
Star Citizens

A Garbage Collecting Device By A 15 Year Old

15 year old Sikanto Mandal from Jai Gurudev Sanstha School, Mathura is the creative mind behind the Garbage Collecting Device. Jai Gurudev Sanstha School is a school which provides subsidised education to the underprivileged students.To keep the campus, students clean the surroundings every day. Sikanto Mandal came up with an idea to build a mobile device for collecting garbage. After sharing this concept with his teachers, Mandal applied for the Inspire Awards after which he received an amount of Rs.5000 to build the app. After a lot of trial and errors, Sikanto's app was built and is said to be completely natural. According to Sikanto, the app is said to have a picker that aids in collecting garbage without touching it, and a gripper with a handle which helps in the dumping of the garbage easily without having to completely topple the cart. The app is said to have special features, including customised spaces in the cart where people collecting garbage can keep the broom, a water bottle and other waste materials they might pick on their way making it easier for the municipal workers who collect waste from parks and other places.

8 Feb 2018
Star Citizens

Youngster Invents Device For Women’s Safety

Siddharth Mandala as a 12-year-old had accompanied his mother to the Nirbhaya rallies in Hyderabad and decided that there had to be a better way. He felt that women might forget to carry tasers or pepper spray, but everyone puts on shoes. Now, at 18 he is the inventor of ElectroShoe – a device that enables the user to electrocute an offender and alert the nearby police station and friends of their location using WiFi. It took him two years to come out with the prototype using social media for help. He believes technology can truly change the quality of our lives. He launched Cognizance Welfare Initiative (CWI) that teaches coding to students and inspires them to use science to enable them to create solutions for their communities. In May 2017, Mandala was awarded a letter of appreciation by the Telangana government for his invention.

8 Jan 2018
Star Citizens

Spreading knowledge in a special way

Here's a tale about a journalist who started her own NGO that works for underprivileged special children. As Sonalee Shyamsundar worked in the field of journalism, she always felt the urge to work for the society about which she was writing in the newspapers. A small research in the BMC about special education and she started with Urmi Foundation which now works for the education of special children.  My Indian Dream speaks with Sonalee about her venture in the field of education.  Tell me about Urmi and how did you start? Before starting Urmi foundation I did research with BMC special schools and communities around. I learned that BMC is the only corporation running special schools in India. The academic conditions were very poor with extremely high drop out rate. Violence is faced by children was severe. During my research 99% parents stated directly and indirectly that the special child is not going to help them in future and would be unable to take responsibility, so there is no point in educating a special child.  This was the trigger, and I decided to found Urmi foundation but at the same time instead of starting own school we decided to strengthen BMC special education department by designing a model for them.     How does Urmi help underprivileged children? Urmi foundation has designed a model, which includes 5 important areas essential for a special child to learn 1. Personal 2. Social 3. Recreational 4. Academic 5. Pre vocational. we have deigned a special syllabus for BMC special schools and also designed impact assessment system to track growth.  BMC has been really kind and supportive and cooperative towards our project.  You were a journalist before, what prompted you to start an NGO? To be very honest I was a bad journalist. But journalism taught me realities and enhanced my human understanding. While doing stories about social issues, I used to feel bad about them. But one day I thought, why should I feel bad? Instead why not convert my thoughts in to action and work in the social sector? Thus (I) started working in different NGOs finally with encouragement by my ex bosses from NGO sector I founded Urmi foundation.    Future plans of Urmi? I would like to shut Urmi foundation In 20 years by making special education system sustainable and by creating inclusive communities where a special child will receive equal rights and acceptance.

14 Apr 2017
Star Citizens

Global News

Nature’s Comeback: Record Find of 106 Rare Crocodile Eggs in Cambodia

A passionate team of animal conservationists in Cambodia discovered 106 eggs of a rare crocodile species in a wildlife area in western Cambodia, marking the largest find in 20 years. This significant discovery offers renewed hope for the survival of these endangered crocodiles in the wild. The team uncovered the eggs in Cardamom National Park in May, and between June 27 and 30, 60 of them hatched. This information was shared in a joint statement by the agriculture and environment ministries, along with Fauna & Flora, a conservation group dedicated to protecting wildlife. "This find shows that this area is important for wild crocodiles, which makes us hopeful that the species can bounce back," the statement said. Eggs of a rare Siamese crocodile species hatch in Cardamom National Park in June 2024. (Source: BBC Associated Press) Rangers from Cardamom National Park Wildlife Sanctuary are looking after the area and the baby reptiles, the statement said. The crocodile type used to be all over Southeast Asia, but now it's in big trouble. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature says they're super close to dying out. By the 1990s, they were almost gone because people hunted them, wrecked their homes, and mixed them with other crocodile types. Cambodia's environment boss, Eang Sophalleth, said his team is trying to save these Crocs and fix up their homes. "These Siamese crocodiles are super important for nature. Finding five nests with 60 eggs that hatched shows Cardamom National Park is a good safe place for these crocs to live," Sophalleth said on Thursday. Moving From Era Of Extinction Towards Era Of Resilience ~ While we hear lots of stories about animals, plants, and fungi heading towards extinction (or worse, species that are already gone forever), there are good news stories to get excited about too. Around the globe, some species numbers have bounced back to safer levels thanks to the hard work of passionate nature lovers. These experts see bringing back extinct animals as 'making ecosystems richer' or restoring important roles lost when species died out. This idea has an influence on projects to bring back extinct animals: letting these revived creatures loose in the right places has an impact on increasing the variety of life and making ecosystems stronger.

19 Jul 2024
Global News

A New Dawn for European Wilderness: Bison Return to Portugal After 10,000 Years!

The sighting of a small herd of bison in a vast Portuguese valley marks a historic moment for Rewilding Europe. For the first time since the Last Glacial Maximum—over 20,000 years ago—bison have returned to Portugal. This period, also known as the Last Glacial Coldest Period, was when ice sheets reached their greatest extent, profoundly affecting Earth's climate and landscapes. It's considered to be the key to preventing catastrophic wildfires, curbing the spread of invasive species, and promoting endemic biodiversity. During the Last Glacial Maximum, vast ice sheets covered Northern North America, Europe, and Asia, significantly impacting the planet by expanding desert areas and lowering sea levels. Today, European wood bison are celebrated as one of the best resources for restoring Europe's wilderness to its untamed glory. Their populations are flourishing from Poland to Romania and even the UK, heralding a new era of conservation and ecological balance. The European bison and the steppe bison used to wander the forests and scrublands that once covered all of Europe. To enhance natural ecosystems, countries throughout the Old World are currently working to restore these massive grazers into wild regions. A Milestone Moment ~ Wild Bison Getting Restored In the Wild In Romania  ( Source: Google Images)  A Bison Action Plan, created by the IUCN's (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Species Survival Group in cooperation with the European Bison Conservation Centre (EBCC) and others, has served as the framework and coordinator for the majority of European bison restoration operations since 2004. The plan's primary goals are to boost European bison numbers, protect genetic diversity, and allow healthy, free-ranging herds to coexist peacefully in European ecosystems. The progressive abandonment of the Greater Côa Valley in Portugal, a nation the size of Pennsylvania, has created a unique chance for rewilding in the tiny nation. A quarter of a million acres have already been set aside by the government for protection; the area features a unique blend of semi-natural and natural habitats, including steep gorges, scrub, and Mediterranean dry woods. In addition to being a sanctuary for roe deer, red deer, wild boar, eagles, and an ancient breed of cattle that still grazes freely like its majestic ancestor, the auroch, the territory also hosts a small pack of Iberian wolves. The group Rewilding Portugal, which sourced the animals from the woods of northern Poland, where more than 4,000 bison roam freely, will collaborate with the management of the incoming European bison. According to Pedro Prata, the leader of the Rewilding Portugal project, "We are viewing this translocation as a pilot." The bison's adaptation to the local environment and climate will be closely observed. Since the Rewilding Portugal team has never managed bison before, we are also learning a lot from this experience. The team members will get management training for the bison. It will be novel not only for the team but also, in a sense, novel for Portugal. Not only have no remains of the European bison been found in the nation, but no remains have been found anywhere on the Iberian Peninsula. The steppe bison, which originated in Portugal 10,000 years ago and is the ancestor of the contemporary European bison, is where the scientific proof has to go. Nonetheless, research on relocated bison in Spain has demonstrated that they thrive in the country's hot, dry climate. Bison contribute to the preservation of mosaic landscapes rich in biodiversity, comprising grassland, scrub, and forest, as well as various micro-habitats supporting a diverse array of plant and animal species, utilizing grazing, foraging, trampling, and fertilizing. Studies on the related American bison conducted in North America and Europe have brought this to light. The soil and vegetation can both absorb more atmospheric carbon as a result of these same interactions. Trusting The Process ~  The Beast of the food world, the European Bison ~ ( Source: Google Images)   The European bison still has to overcome several obstacles, even with the tremendous advancements during the past ten years. These comprise a minuscule gene found in American bison, health risks (new illnesses and epidemics have been documented), restricted living quarters, seclusion, poaching, and inadequate environment for reintroduction. Only eight free-living subpopulations (with a combined total of 150 animals) are still viable, with the majority of subpopulations continuing to be small and isolated. The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and its Bison Species Specialist Group are currently working on a second bison action plan that will help to address many of these unresolved challenges. Following the publishing of this plan, Rewilding Europe's own Bison Rewilding Plan will also be revised. What Does Future Prospect Look Like ~  Europe currently stands at a crossroads. People are moving from rural areas to cities and coastal locations in search of new horizons for the first time in many centuries. Many animals are now able to naturally recolonize portions of their former range because of a combination of factors including a stronger legislative framework, specialized species protection programs, the creation of a pan-European protected area net, labor, and increased public interest in wildlife. In light of this, and despite the difficulties encountered in facilitating its resurgence, the outlook for the European bison is positive. This species, which was once in danger of going extinct, is now writing the next chapter in its ongoing history as free-roaming populations continue to grow and explore new areas, improving biodiversity and enriching the lives of those they coexist with.

11 Jun 2024
Global News

Fish Raised in Labs: The Newest Alternative Protein to Make Waves!

It takes some time getting accustomed to seeing workers in lab coats manipulating gleaming steel vats. Compared to commercial poultry barns and slaughterhouses, it's a long cry. This is cellular agriculture, which involves farming using cells rather than animals on a small scale. And perhaps even the way the globe obtains protein in the future. Interest in lab-grown proteins is surging as worries about the ethics, pollution, health, and land usage of animal raising rise. With cattle contributing more than one-third of the world's greenhouse gas emissions from food production, lab-cultured meat looks to be reaching a tipping point and might be a key ally in sustaining the net zero goal. Chan's choice to prioritize fish was influenced by her upbringing in Hong Kong, where the seafood is a dietary staple. (Source: Google Images) “Traditional ways of producing meat are continuously and increasingly under threat due to climate change and the risk of pandemics,” she says. “Food security is a big concern for many governments, and we’re offering an additional solution.”Mainstream adoption of ‘alt-proteins’ such as dairy-free milk in coffee and entirely lab-grown cheeseburgers has been touted as an important marker for one of three ‘super leverage’ tipping points with the potential to turbo-charge the planet’s transition to net zero.  Meat and dairy consumption account for around 14% of total carbon emissions. The impact of eating fish meanwhile is more deeply connected to the damaging effect it has on the ocean’s ecosystem. Chan’s journey from meat-eater to activist began in 2014. She started thinking about lessons she’d learned years earlier in school about some of the factors behind hunger and famine: poorly managed land, and crops that might feed humans being used instead to rear beef cattle and poultry. Her Prespective & Work ~ Lab culturing offers a faster, parasite-free, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fish farming ( Source: Google Images) "I'll just eat veggies," Chan remembers making the decision. "I assumed it must be benefiting my body because I felt so light after eating and slept well. The more research I did, the more I realized that stopping to eat animal products was a one-way trip. She gave up her job as an architect in 2018 to accept a part-time position with the Lever Foundation, a US-based nonprofit that promotes alternative proteins mostly throughout Asia. Lever's venture capital division, Lever VC, was heavily investing in the then-emerging farmed meat sector, which was mostly based in the West. Seeing a chance to bring it home, Chan launched Avant Meats with Lever's assistance and financial support. Her background in Hong Kong, where meals are frequently heavy in seafood, influenced her decision to concentrate on fish. 200 million tons of fish and seafood are produced annually worldwide, with a market valued at $676.2 billion (£534 billion). More than 88% of that output is produced in Asia, which also consumes almost two-thirds of it. Although some wild fish have a low carbon footprint overall, the global fishing fleet releases around 144 million tonnes of CO2 per year, and a third of our fish populations are currently overfished. Aquaculture, or the farming of fish, is booming in response to the rising demand for fish protein worldwide. Owing to the sector's explosive expansion, wild capture has currently surpassed annually by 30 million tons. While technology has made aquaculture more sustainable and efficient, some farmed species—like tilapia, which is raised widely in China—may have a higher carbon footprint than chicken. Avant Meats begins by harvesting a cell sample from a living fish and growing it over four to six months to build a starter cell culture, which can be duplicated time and time again. The starter is stored in a dormant, frozen state for future use, and a couple of million cells at a time are grown by feeding them nutrients inside a bioreactor. After six weeks, there’s sufficient cell mass to create an edible product, and, as what emerges from Avant Meat’s tanks resembles an unappealing, fishy protein slurry, it is blended with plant-based ingredients to give it form and texture.  Lab culturing is around four times quicker than farming fish, and its sterile environment means there are no parasites to worry about, no animal welfare issues, nor any of the heavy metals, microplastics, or transport-related emissions associated with a wild catch. There’s no need to turn land over to growing fish feed, and by licensing Avant Meats’ technology, Chan hopes the supply of seafood can be decentralized to meet local needs. Some analysts forecast that cultivated meats could make up 35% of global meat consumption by 2040. In recent weeks, news of the emergence of lab-grown eel raised excitement about the potential for millions of people to eat the popular sushi staple without damaging the underwater ecosystem. However, research demonstrates that many consumers are still chewing over the idea of adding lab-grown meat to their menus, with perceptions that it is unnatural or unhealthy fuelling reluctance.  Chan concludes by advising anyone uncomfortable with the concept of lab grown meat to look at what's in their refrigerator or what their neighborhood bar is serving. She notes that a bioreactor is essentially a more elegant and sophisticated fermenter. "Microbiology is nothing new; we have been employing microbes to produce food for years, much like when we create yogurt or beer. There's nothing overly sci-fi about it in the end. However, it could take until the end of the decade for the typical supermarket customer to be able to taste a fish finger that was created in a lab. Even while Avant Meats is expanding quickly—it just increased production and opened a pilot plant in Singapore—it and similar businesses must traverse a sea of bureaucratic red tape. Only the US and Singapore have authorized a small number of grown meat products for widespread distribution thus far. Investors may be wary because of the existing high start-up expenses and an end product that is around three to five times more expensive than an organically produced counterpart grown traditionally.  

7 May 2024
Global News

Sydney Harbor Welcomes 100 Tiny Endangered Seahorses in a Remarkable Conservation Effort

In a remarkable conservation effort, Sydney Harbor has become the new home for 100 tiny endangered seahorses, offering hope for their declining population. The seahorses, known as White's seahorses or New Holland seahorses, were bred at the Sea Life Aquarium in Sydney before being released into the harbor. This initiative is part of a larger plan to rehabilitate and reintroduce these iconic Australian creatures. Laura Simmons, the Aquarium's curator, revealed that this release is one of many that have already taken place, with several more planned for 2024. The White's seahorses possess fascinating characteristics, including ovoviviparous reproduction, where the female deposits fertilized eggs into the male's brood pouch for gestation. They also exhibit strong fidelity and seasonal monogamous mating. Unfortunately, their population has been in decline for years, making this conservation effort even more crucial. Simmons expressed the importance of reversing the decline and reestablishing the seahorse population. She emphasized that these seahorses are a national icon, and it is crucial to protect and preserve them. The release site at Clontarf, a tide pool north of Sydney Harbor, marks the sixth release this year alone. Previous successful releases have taken place at Chowder Bay, Botany Bay, and Little Manly Beach, resulting in over 400 individual seahorses finding their way into their natural habitats. Swimmers in Clontarf may have the chance to observe these seahorses clinging to the habitat net in the tidal pool. However, it is essential to respect their habitat and avoid disturbing the animals.

1 Jan 2024
Global News

Beyond Centuries: The Oldest Living Land Animal Continues to Defy Time!

Meet Jonathan, the venerable giant tortoise, who recently turned 190 years old! He is hailed as the world's oldest land-dwelling creature. This remarkable reptile's exact birthdate remains shrouded in mystery, yet historical estimates suggest Jonathan was already a ripe 50 years old when he journeyed from the Seychelles to St Helena in 1882. According to Guinness World Records, Jonathan's birth year is tentatively placed at 1832, although this timeless tortoise might boast an even more extensive lineage. Surpassing the average life expectancy of his species by a hefty margin, Jonathan claimed the title of the oldest recorded turtle in 2021, surpassing Tu’I Malila, a radiated tortoise who lived for 188 years. Despite his age, Jonathan defies the odds, exhibiting an unyielding vitality. Though his senses have weathered the years—his sense of smell gone and vision dimmed by cataracts—his appetite remains robust. Carefully tended by a devoted team, Jonathan partakes in a weekly feast of fruits and vegetables, supplementing his calories and vital nutrients. Veterinarian Joe Hollins, Jonathan's faithful caretaker, marvels at the tortoise's resilience. " It is extraordinary to think that this gentle giant has outlived every other living creature on land, including of course the whole human race. Jonathan is in good health and all the indications at present make us hopeful that he will reach his third century – if indeed he hasn’t done so already!” Hollins expressed, amazed at the legacy held within Jonathan's ancient shell. As admirers contemplate the tales Jonathan might share if he could speak, one thing remains clear: in his majestic, unhurried pace, this gentle giant carries the secrets of centuries within his ageless form.

4 Dec 2023
Global News

Farmers Saving Endangered Wildfowl in Australia through Egg Collection Initiative

Farmers in Australia have taken on the role of guardians for endangered wildfowl species by organizing an innovative egg collection initiative. The farmers, based in the Rankins Springs area near West Wyalong, have joined forces with wildlife champion Mal Carnegie and the Lake Cowal Foundation to protect the dwindling population of Malleefowl. The Malleefowl, a ground-nesting bird, has faced challenges to its survival due to the presence of feral cats and invasive foxes. The species' low survival rate, with Malleefowl chicks having less than a 2% chance of making it in the wild, prompted the farmers to step in and make a difference. Over the past three years, the farmers have been collecting eggs from the birds' nesting mounds and transporting them to a specialized incubation facility. The eggs are then released into a feral-free enclosed environment, increasing the chances of survival for the chicks. Through this catch, incubate, and release program, the farmers have successfully increased the likelihood of Malleefowl reaching maturity by tenfold. This collaborative effort has yielded promising results, with 10 juveniles spotted within the 140-acre enclosure just 12 months after their release. The farmers' involvement and their unique approach to incubation and releasing have proven instrumental in the success of the initiative. By taking proactive measures to protect the Malleefowl, these farmers have demonstrated the power of community-driven conservation efforts. Their dedication and ingenuity serve as an inspiration to others seeking to make a positive impact on endangered species and the natural environment.

4 Nov 2023
Global News

Unprecedented Sighting: 13-Foot Sawfish Ventures North, Ushering in Hope for Species Revival

A 13-foot sawfish, a bizarre relative of the ray with a chainsaw for a nose, has been spotted in Florida's Cedar Key, further north than any sawfish sighting in decades. The rare sighting has given hope for the recovery of the endangered species, which was once widespread in the US southeast but saw its numbers plummet due to a variety of factors. Marine ecologist Dean Grubbs, who was on a fishing trip with some students, caught the mature female sawfish and tagged it for tracking purposes. The tagging will allow biologists to track the animal for 10 years to see where it spends its time. Grubbs and his colleague were encouraged to see that the animal was female and had mating scars, indicating that it was reproducing. The sawfish nurseries tend to be found in calm waters under and around mangrove trees, and the belief is forming that they are returning to old haunts as part of a slow, steady recovery. Increased protection for mangroves and a ban on gill nets, in which sawfish rostrums were famous for getting trapped, are among the measures contributing to the recovery of the species. The sighting of the 13-foot sawfish is a positive sign for the recovery of the species and highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered marine life.

26 Jul 2023
Global News

Snowy Surprise: Rare All-White Panda Spotted in China, the World's Only One of Its Kind

In a rare sighting, an all-white panda has been spotted again in China, making it the only one of its kind in the world. The panda was last spotted in 2019 in the Wolong National Nature Reserve in Sichuan Province, and its recent appearance has excited wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists. The panda's unique coloration is due to a rare genetic mutation that inhibits the production of pigment in its fur, resulting in a snowy-white coat. This makes it stand out from the typical black-and-white pandas, which are native to China and are considered a national treasure. The all-white panda was first discovered in 2005, but sightings have been infrequent, with the last one in 2019. Researchers believe that there are only a few of these rare pandas in the world, making them difficult to study and protect. Conservationists and researchers are now working to protect the all-white panda and its habitat. The Wolong National Nature Reserve, where it was last spotted, is a protected area that is home to many endangered species, including the giant panda. The discovery of the all-white panda provides a unique opportunity for researchers to study the genetics and behavior of these rare animals. It also highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats.

5 Jun 2023
Global News

Young Explorer Strikes Gold: Norwegian Girl Unearths 4,000-Year-Old Treasure on School Grounds

An 8-year-old Norwegian girl has made an extraordinary discovery on her school playground: a Neolithic flint knife that is believed to be thousands of years old. The girl, named Lina, stumbled upon the ancient artifact while playing with friends during recess. According to archaeologists, the flint knife is thought to date back to the Neolithic period, which lasted from around 4000 to 2500 BCE. The knife is in remarkably good condition, despite being buried underground for thousands of years. The discovery has caused a stir among archaeologists and historians, who are hailing it as an important find. The knife is one of the oldest artifacts ever found in the area, and it provides valuable insights into the lives and customs of the people who lived there thousands of years ago. Lina's school is located in the municipality of Øvre Eiker, which is known for its rich archaeological heritage. The area is home to several burial mounds, stone circles, and other ancient sites, and it has been the focus of archaeological research for many years. The knife will be carefully examined and analyzed by experts before being put on display at a local museum. In the meantime, Lina and her classmates are excited to have played a part in uncovering a piece of history.

21 May 2023
Global News

Endangered No More: 29 Species Successfully Recovered in Australia

The conservationists of Australia who have been working tirelessly to protect the country's precious wildlife have achieved a major milestone as 29 endangered species have made a remarkable recovery and can now be safely de-listed from Australia's endangered species list.  Australia is known for its unique and diverse wildlife, but many of its native species have been struggling to survive in recent years. However, the remarkable recovery has brought some much-needed good news. The recovered species include a variety of animals, such as mammals, birds, frogs, reptiles, and fish. This breakthrough offers hope that other endangered species can also be saved, and that conservation efforts are making a real difference. Australia has long been a focus of endangered species conservation due to the unique and fragile nature of its ecosystem. Many of the animals found in Australia are not found anywhere else in the world, which makes them especially vulnerable to extinction. Invasive predators like foxes and cane toads have also posed a major threat to local wildlife, disrupting the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Despite these challenges, the recovery of these 29 species is a testament to the hard work and dedication of scientists, conservationists, and volunteers. The research project, which was conducted by a variety of Australian academic institutions, provides valuable insight into how conservation efforts can be improved. By measuring success through documentation of recoveries, conservation managers can better coordinate efforts and funding for the animals that are still struggling to survive.  This approach also helps address threats that affect multiple species at once, which is crucial for the long-term health of the ecosystem. Overall, this breakthrough is a reminder that we can make a positive impact on the environment if we work together and take action.

5 Mar 2023
Global News

The Whys and Hows

Video Gaming Industry: Understanding the Sudden Spikes

Video games have been around for decades, entertaining both youngsters and adults. They've come a long way since the early days of computer games and the initial versions of Nintendo and Atari. Pixelated graphics and restricted sound effects are a thing of the past, as video games have gotten more lifelike than ever. Video games are becoming more advanced as technology advances. Video game development has gotten increasingly sophisticated, and the expense of developing a game for one of the major systems has risen in tandem. It was previously inconceivable to invest millions in game creation, but today's games may cost tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars. In terms of production and marketing expenditures, this has pushed game development into the realm of Hollywood films. The video game industry is massive. In reality, it is larger than the entire film and music industry, and it is just rising. It's hardly surprising that businesses want a piece of the action. The gaming business is expected to earn $155 billion in revenue by 2020. Analysts expect that the business will earn more than $260 billion in sales by 2025. As a result, IT businesses are eager to participate in this revenue source. Google (GOOGL), Meta (META), previously Facebook, and Apple (AAPL) have all announced ambitions to enter the video gaming sector. The following are the most noteworthy benefits of gaming: enhanced cognitive ability improved thinking and problem-solving abilities improved hand-eye coordination improved multitasking abilities Decision-making that is both faster and more accurate Increased prosocial conduct improved vision (attention to detail) More physical activity through physical activity-promoting games (VR, mobile games) Demographics in the market are changing:  Another development in the video game business is the demographic growth of the market. People are playing games earlier and later in life, and the gender ratio is approaching equality. Top-tier gamers engaging in eSports leagues have garnered enough prominence to be eligible for the professional athlete visa while entering the United States. Gaming has a broad appeal and is continually expanding.The changing demographics of gamers are maybe the most intriguing trend in the video gaming business. With more people playing games, a need for more immersive entertainment, and a desire for simpler access to games, the video game industry's future appears bright. ''Every age has its storytelling form, and video gaming is a huge part of our culture. You can ignore or embrace video games and imbue them with the best artistic quality. People are enthralled with video games in the same way as other people love the cinema or theatre.''- Andy Serkis    

30 Nov 2023
The Whys and Hows

Australian Farmers Preserving Wildfowl Species

Only 2,800 Malleefowl are remaining in Australia's heavily populated state of New South Wales, out of 25,000 total. However, an unexpected band of brave people—farmers—are stepping up to save these threatened birds. The existence of invasive foxes and feral cats has severely disrupted the survival and reproduction strategy of these ground-nesting birds, regardless of whatever natural balance the ecosystem may have once had. As a result, the survival rate of Malleefowl chicks in the wild is less than 2%. These fascinating birds are skilled at remaining undetected from all other animals within their range because of their complex plumage. Malleefowl belong to a Galliformes family known as "mound builders."Males choose a location in the winter, usually 3 square yards under the mallee tree's shade, and use their feet to rake sandy soil backward to create a mound for their nest. After excavating to a depth of around three feet, they will pile organic material around the depression for the remainder of the winter, building a mound that may reach a height of two feet. Farmers who live and work in the Rankins Springs, close to West Wyalong, area have been gathering eggs from the birds' nesting mounds for the past three years and bringing them to a specialized incubation facility before releasing them into an enclosed space free of feral animals. One farmer, Rodney Guest, told a reporter there, "They didn't have a great deal of success but we have just put a bit of farmer logic into the whole process of incubation and releasing." He has reportedly spent the last 20 years removing foxes and feral cats from his property in an effort to aid this bird, according to insights that were pulled up. "We have been picking up birds from the previous and current season, we are really over the moon with what we have achieved," they all declare with a great sense of pride.  

12 Nov 2023
The Whys and Hows

Global Inspirations

This Grandfather Teaches Us That Life Is Too Short to Be Small

Joao Stanganelli didn’t let vitiligo come in the way of living an interesting and fulfilling life. Vitiligo is a condition in which the skin loses its pigment and becomes white. The most difficult part of being affected by this skin condition is to cope with other people’s prejudice against those who suffer from this skin disorder. Stanganelli noticed the initial signs of vitiligo when he was 38. He worked in the gastronomy industry but had to quit his job due to a heart problem. This would have been really hard on anyone, but Stanganelli decided to overcome this tough time by cultivating a hobby. He soon took a liking to crochet and with the help of his wife, he mastered the art. Within just five days of learning crochet, Stanganelli created his first doll. He decided to make dolls for his granddaughter, but he wanted to do something special so that she remembered him. He came up with the idea of knitting a doll with vitiligo and so, Vitilinda, a pretty doll with spots and uneven skin, was born.  Vitilinda’s success motivated him to make more such dolls to restore the self-esteem of children affected by this skin condition. Gradually, his crochet works became more inclusive and he created a beautiful doll in a wheelchair that was admired and loved by many. This made his work very rewarding and Stanganelli found the goal of his life- to make crocheted dolls that would bring joy and cheer in people’s lives.

14 Dec 2019
Global Inspirations

Vending Machines in America to Provide Healthy Options to Counter Obesity Problems

Obesity is a growing problem all over the world which leads to other ailments like diabetes, heart disease and more. Taking note of the increasing cases of obesity in the US due to unhealthy eating habits, its vending machines will offer healthy snack options from January 1. The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) recently announced that they are committed to public health and will substantially increase the percentage of “better for you”  options across all of the nation’s vending machines. The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) NAMA represents nearly 1000 member companies including many of the world’s leading brands that make popular snacks. It serves snacks and beverages every day 24/7 through nearly four million vending machines across the country. NAMA has now collaborated with Partnership for a Healthier America and the Alliance for a Healthier Generation—two nonprofits dedicated to curbing obesity rates in the US in order to meet the growing demands of people for healthier snack options. ‘Better for you’ Options NAMA has decided to increase the percentage of “better for you”  options to its customers from January 1st across all of the nation’s vending machines. Under the commitment which is to be implemented over the next three years, one-third of all snacks will meet at least two recognized public health standards. Greg Sidwell, NAMA Chair, said that they will continue to collaborate with public health partners and encourage food manufacturers to support this important initiative through new products that meet the commitment. This initiative to offer healthy snacks in vending machines will go a long way in curbing obesity among the people. Image Source: CBS News

4 Nov 2019
Global Inspirations

Flight Attendant’s Handwritten Note Meant the World to a Deaf Solo Traveler

When 16-year-old Ashley embarked on a solo flight journey, she hadn’t imagined that her nervousness would turn into joy, thanks to the kindness shown by a flight attendant of Delta Airlines. Ashley was afraid that due to her hearing disability, she would miss important instructions about her flight from Baltimore to JFK International Airport in NewYork. To make matters worse, she had to catch a connecting flight to Rochester from the JFK airport which is one of the busiest airports in the world. To her surprise, Ashley had a safe and successful flight thanks to a caring flight attendant. As soon as the flight took off from Baltimore, the Delta attendant handed a handwritten note to the teen. The note contained information regarding safety as well as other details that Ashley would want to know about the flight. Through the note she came to know which overhead button she should press so that she could call the flight attendant in case she needs any help. The handwritten note by the flight attendant rested all doubts of the teen and she was at ease. Ashley was overwhelmed by this act of kindness and she has decided to treasure that note which meant the world to her. Image Source: The Advertiser

23 Sep 2019
Global Inspirations

Now, There Is a Possibility to Save the Endangered Northern White Rhinos From Extinction

There now seems to be a great possibility of saving the endangered northern white rhinos from extinction even though the last male of the species died last year. Scientists were happy to report that seven eggs from the world's last two remaining northern white rhinos have been successfully fertilized artificially. Northern White Rhinoceros There are only two female survivors of the northern white rhinoceros.  Sudan, the last male of the species died last year in Kenya leaving behind only two female survivors - Najin and Fatu who are Sudan's daughter and grand-daughter. They lived together at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, about 250km  north of Nairobi.  The scientists were able to harvest 10 eggs from Najin and Fatu out of which seven had been successfully matured and artificially inseminated on Sunday with the sperm of two bulls of the same species that were kept frozen. The team of scientists is led by the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research in Berlin.  Dwindling Rhino Population In the 1970s, Kenya had a population of around 20, 000 rhinos but these figures have reduced to just 650 in current times due to rampant poaching of the rhinoceros for their horns which are used in medicine and as status symbols in some countries. The remaining 650 rhinos are all almost black rhinos. The next crucial step involves creating viable embryos that could be later on transferred to southern white rhino surrogate mothers. Hope this next step also meets with success so that the northern white rhinoceros are saved from extinction.    

3 Sep 2019
Global Inspirations

First Car With Solar Roof Charging System Launched

Hyundai Motor has made use of groundbreaking eco-friendly technology in making the New Sonata Hybrid which is the first commercial car with a solar roof charging system. The technology involves the installation of solar panels on the roof of the car which will provide vehicles with additional electrical power in addition to increasing fuel efficiency and driving range. The solar roof charging system on the debut car supports the vehicle’s electric power source, increasing fuel efficiency and controlling CO2 emissions. The Solar Roof System The technology involves the installation of silicon solar panels on the car roof. When solar energy activates the solar panel’s surface, the panel uses photons of light from the sun to create electron-hole pairs in silicon cells, which generate solar electricity. A controller converts the electricity thus generated into a standard voltage which is then stored in the battery. Efficiency The battery gets charged  30 to 60% per day even while driving. With a daily charging of 6 hours, the drivers’ travel distance can increase by an extra 1,300 kilometers (800 miles) annually. Along with efficiency, Hyundai Motor also took into account the design of the car while developing the solar charging system. Hyundai is expected to roll out the technology to all other vehicles across its range in the coming years. Image Source: Good News Network

25 Aug 2019
Global Inspirations

Belgium Zoo Announces the Birth of Rare Giant Panda Twins

The Pairi Daiza zoo in Belgium announced the "extremely rare" birth of twin baby giant pandas on Thursday. The staff of the zoo rejoiced at the birth of the twins -  one male and one female and said that they represented a "new hope" for the charismatic black and white bear. The Giant Panda The giant panda is a bear native to south-central China. According to the World Wildlife Fund, their numbers have reduced considerably and less than 2,000 Giant Pandas are now living in the wild. In 2016, the status of giant pandas was changed from endangered to vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The Twin Cubs Last week, on Wednesday mother panda Hao Hao, showed signs of going into labour. By Thursday afternoon, she gave birth to a 160g male baby and two hours later she delivered a female, weighing 150g. The delivery of the cubs was carefully monitored by Belgian and Chinese experts. The president of the zoo, Eric Domb said, “This double birth is marvellous news for this extraordinary species”. The zoo officials said that extreme care will be taken of the mother bear and her cubs as the next few days will be crucial for the survival of the twin cubs. One at a time, the keepers will put one of the babies in an incubator and feed it with a bottle so that the mother bear gets to rest.

13 Aug 2019
Global Inspirations

Nature Lover Stays On A Tree For More Than A Year To Stop Logging Of Endangered Forests

Miranda Gibson, a teacher by profession put her career on hold and mentally prepared herself to live on a tree to stop the logging of endangered forests in Styx Valley in Tasmania. She stayed atop the tree without touching the ground for 14 months and took pictures of loggers who were deterred by her actions. When she finally descended on the ground, she was hailed as a hero for protecting the forest. Miranda’s deep and abiding love of nature gave her the courage to take this bold step. She is the spokesperson for Australian grass-roots forest advocacy group Still Wild Still Threatened, is involved in the monitoring of native wildlife and endangered species in threatened forests and is the co-author of the book Flora and Fauna Guide to the Upper Florentine Valley.

25 Jan 2018
Global Inspirations

There is good news at French Zoo

French Zoo officials were finding it hard to contain their excitement when they realized that their pregnant panda is expecting twins. The panda, Huan Huan is on loan to Beauval zoo in central France from China with her male partner Yuan Zi. She is expected to give birth to two cubs this weekend. It will be the first birth of a panda in France. Earlier it was announced that the nine-year-old bear who was brought to France in 2012 after intense, high-level negotiations between Paris and Beijing, was carrying a single cub. Officials were doubly delighted when veterinarians assisted by two Chinese panda reproduction specialists noticed the second foetus on Tuesday. Head veterinarian Baptiste Mulot said that the caretakers of Huan Huan will place the second cub in an incubator and rotate the tiny bears every two hours with their hundred-kilo mother. Huan Huan (meaning "happy") and Yuan Zi ("chubby") are the only giant pandas living in France. The zoo officials are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safe birth of the pandas. If all goes well with the birth, the cubs will be returned to China within the next two to three years.    

3 Aug 2017
Global Inspirations

FoodDosti

 For the love of Sindhi cuisine

Those who are Sindhis or a big fan of Sindhi food would get to know why Sindhi cuisine is one of the best in India. with the same thought Mohinish Shankar Thadani started off with a restaurant Monu’s Diner serving Sindhi cuisine. This small restaurant located in Viman Nagar, is Sindhi cuisine paradise and those who are a die hard fan of Sindhi cuisine would love to visit this place and have tummy-full meal. Apart from Sindhi cuisine, it also serves north Indian and Chinese cuisine. MY Indian Dream spoke to Mohinish about this restaurant an its speciality.  Tell us about your restaurant. With passion for food, I started off with a hoteling business four years before. Initially, I started off with a franchise and now run my own business. I am a complete foodie and love to make people happy by serving scrumptious meal. Also, our restaurant being a small place, which is only 24 seater place, we truly believe in serving quality food.  It is a small restaurant with simple ambience and our guests come here just for good food. Therefore our motto is to serve quality food in affordable prices.  What about the cuisine served at your restaurant. Basically, our restaurant serves North Indian, Chinese and Sindhi cuisine. Sindhi cuisine being our speciality. I belong to a Sindhi family and since childhood I have known many Sindhi dishes which are loved by one and all. Being a Sindhi and having a passion for food I wanted to serve people traditional Sindhi food. Guests here come specially to taste Sindhi cuisine.  Any particular dishes that people love at your restaurant. As we serve traditional Sindhi cuisine, we make sure that it is served with authentic taste. Kokie and Dal Pakwan are few dishes which our guests loved. Now we are also planning to introduce the traditional non vegetarian Sindhi curries at our restaurant. Sindhi Kadhi is another dish that people love. even while dishes are Sindhi, we have our secret family recipes which are served at the restaurant. Even in Sindhi families the recipes and taste changes family-to-family. Therefore people specially come to taste our recipes. Also we take suggestions from our Sindhi guest about their experience about our restaurant.  Being in hoteling business, any steps for zero food wastage? Yes, We make sure that we do not prepare excess food. Also our restaurant believe in charity so we make sure that we serve underprivileged people with some fresh food.  What do you think about FoodDosti app? It is definitely a good move and a positive step to reduce food wastage. We have customers who feel surprised to see incentive points once they finish their entire plate. Also other things in the app help people not to waste food and order only that much which is required. It is definitely a good move that will help Indians to value food and also reduce food wastage. 

5 May 2017
FoodDosti

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