#law

Good News

A New Dawn in the Judiciary: Justice Gavai Takes Oath as India’s 52nd CJI

On May 14, 2025, India witnessed a landmark moment as Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai took oath as the 52nd Chief Justice of India. The ceremony, held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, was presided over by President Droupadi Murmu. Significantly, Justice Gavai became the first Buddhist to hold the highest judicial office in the country. Taking his oath in Hindi, he pledged allegiance to the Constitution and committed himself to serve the nation with integrity and fairness. The gathering included dignitaries such as PM Narendra Modi and his predecessor Justice Sanjiv Khanna. He humbly touched his mother’s feet in an emotional moment. The event concluded with the National Anthem, symbolizing the start of a new chapter in India's judiciary.A Career Rooted in Laws, Justice and LegacyBorn on November 24, 1960, in Amravati, Justice Gavai hails from a family with a strong legacy of public service. His father, Ramkrishna Suryabhan Gavai, widely known as Dadasaheb, was a respected Dalit leader and former Governor of Bihar. Inspired by this legacy, Justice Gavai entered the legal profession in 1985 and went on to practice constitutional and administrative law.He served as counsel for key municipal bodies and educational institutions in Maharashtra, building a reputation as a committed and principled advocate. He was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court in 2003 and confirmed as a Permanent Judge in 2005, before being elevated to the Supreme Court in 2019.Judicial Contributions and Landmark RulingsWith nearly 300 authored judgments and involvement in around 700 benches, his influence spans constitutional, civil, environmental, and criminal jurisprudence. Among his most notable contributions are his role in upholding the abrogation of Article 370. His verdict in the Manish Sisodia bail case underscored the importance of personal liberty. Another milestone was his participation in the Constitution Bench ruling that recognized states' rights to sub-categorize Scheduled Castes for equitable representation in education and employment.Vision for the Future and Leadership AheadWith a tenure extending until November 23, 2025, Chief Justice Gavai begins his journey at the helm with a clear vision for judicial efficiency and constitutional integrity. Shortly after the oath-taking ceremony, he met with his fellow judges over tea and is expected to convene a full court meeting to discuss priorities and collective strategies. Known for his forthrightness, empathy, and inclusive approach, Chief Justice Gavai is poised to steer the Supreme Court through a crucial phase, reinforcing the rule of law and strengthening public trust in the justice system. His journey shows how dedication and a sense of duty can shape the future of justice in India.

14 May 2025

Good News

Smashing Stereotypes: Kerala High Court Affirms Transgender Rights, Allows Transman to Pursue Dream of Being a Police Officer

In a landmark ruling, the Kerala High Court has upheld the right of a transgender person to apply for the position of a police officer. The decision is a significant step forward for transgender rights in India and has been hailed as a victory for the LGBTQ+ community. The petitioner, Arjun Geetha, a transgender person, had been denied the opportunity to apply for the position of a police officer due to their gender identity. He argued that such discrimination was unconstitutional and violated their fundamental rights. The Kerala High Court agreed, stating that the right to equality and non-discrimination applies to all individuals, regardless of their gender identity. The court also directed the state government to ensure that transgender persons are not discriminated against in any government recruitment process. The ruling has been celebrated by LGBTQ+ activists and advocates, who have long fought for greater recognition and rights for transgender individuals in India. Transgender persons in India have historically faced high levels of discrimination and marginalization, with limited access to education, employment, and healthcare. The Kerala High Court's decision is a positive step towards greater inclusion and acceptance for transgender individuals in India. It sends a clear message that discrimination based on gender identity is unacceptable and that all individuals have the right to equal treatment under the law.

24 Mar 2023

Good News

A First in India: Kerala's Groundbreaking Public Health Law Leaves a Mark

For the first time in India, the Kerala government has passed a new law that has been written entirely using feminine gender pronouns. This move marks a milestone for gender equality in India and holds significant implications for women's empowerment and the recognition of their crucial role in society. According to a release from the office of Health Minister Veena George, it was stated that the newly passed Public Health Law, 2023, was the first bill in the country to completely use feminine gender pronouns. All previous laws in the country had consistently used male pronouns until now. This law was passed after extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including the public, health experts, and organizations, ensuring that it caters to the needs of all sections of society, especially those who require special treatment. The bill was proposed and approved by the legislature in response to the need to battle novel viruses, pathogens, infectious diseases, epidemics, and human-animal interactions-related infectious diseases, as well as to avoid lifestyle diseases. It is high time that policies and laws are replaced by those that recognize the different needs and contributions of men and women. This move by the Kerala government is an excellent step towards achieving gender equality and creating a more inclusive society. It is a call to action for other states and the central government to follow suit and create policies that empower women and recognize their invaluable contributions.

24 Mar 2023

Good News

Thespian Amitabh Bachchan to Be Conferred With Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Amitabh Bachchan has an exceptional career in the world of cinema and his immense contribution to cinema was rightly acknowledged when he was unanimously selected for the Dadasaheb Phalke Award which is Indian cinema’s highest honour. The information was conveyed by Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in a tweet which hailed the legendary actor’s contribution to Indian cinema. In a career that spans over five decades, Amitabh Bachchan has given exceptional performances in innumerable movies including 'Agneepath', 'Black', 'Paa' and 'Piku' for which he was awarded the prestigious National Award. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award was first awarded to actress Devika Rani. Actor Prithviraj Kapoor (1971) and actor Vinod Khanna (2017) are the only posthumous recipients of the award. As of 2017, there have been 49 awardees which include Manna Dey (2007), Shashi Kapoor (2014) and Shyam Benegal (2005). Amitabh Bachchan needs no introduction as he is one of the most popular movie stars in the country who has acted in many critically and commercially successful films. He conquered the hearts of people and won many fans with outstanding performances in films such as Zanjeer, Deewaar and Sholay. More recently, his great work in films such as Pink, Paa and Piku won him many accolades. He also did a stint in Hollywood with a supporting role in Baz Lurhmann’s The Great Gatsby. The megastar also hosts the popular game show Kaun Banega Crorepati on television. The Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri in 1984, the Padma Bhushan in 2001 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2015 for his contributions to the arts. The Government of France honoured him with its highest civilian honour, Knight of the Legion of Honour, in 2007.

25 Sep 2019

Good News

Kerala women fight odds

Palakkad district of Kerala has been plagued with the problem of water scarcity for quite some time now and the women are up in arms to tackle this problem. With shovels in hands, around 300 women have dug up around 190 wells as a solution to acute water scarcity. These homemakers are also earning a living out of it as they are digging wells under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee scheme (MGNREGS). As ponds and wells are the only sources of water for the village, these determined women, aged between 35 and 70 years, have dug up over 190 wells across the drought-hit village since last August. They are not strangers to hardships as even elderly women climb down the pits with the help of makeshift bamboo ladders and dig laboriously for long hours with pickaxe and shovel, digging and clearing away mud and clay in search of water resources. Digging wells was considered the work of men, but with the problem of water scarcity looming large, womenfolk also began to take up this job. Physical limitations and lack of training are not a deterrent for these strong-willed women who create 10-12metre-deep wells single-handedly gradually chipping and shoveling off the rocky terrain of their village.

11 Jul 2017

Good News

Global News

Celebrate International Beaver Day with Nature’s Cutest Architects!

April 7 is International Beaver Day—a time to shine the spotlight on one of nature’s most underrated eco-heroes: the beaver. Often spotted gnawing through trees or paddling through ponds with their signature flat tails, these adorable critters are much more than just tree-munchers. They’re master builders, waterway whisperers, and ecosystem superheroes who deserve way more credit than they get.Let’s dive into the fascinating world of beavers, where every gnaw has a purpose and every dam is a blueprint for environmental harmony.Not Just Tree Chompers – They’re Resourceful RecyclersBeavers don’t waste a single twig. When they fell a tree, it’s not just for fun—it’s strategy. They munch on the buds, bark, and leaves for nutrition, then gnaw the branches and trunk into usable construction material for their dams and lodges (A beaver's home is called a lodge). Their efficient use of natural resources makes them a symbol of sustainability in the animal kingdom.Dams That Do More Than Block WaterThe dams built by beavers are nothing short of engineering marvels. These structures slow down water flow, reduce flooding, recharge groundwater, and help cleanse water by trapping sediments. In fact, the largest known beaver-built dam, located in Wood Buffalo National Park, Alberta, stretches a whopping 850 meters!But it’s not just about size—beaver dams also play a critical role in reviving wetlands, which are vital habitats for countless species. So when a beaver builds, it doesn’t just make a home—it builds a whole community.Meet the Beavers: North America’s Largest RodentsThere are two species of beavers: the Eurasian and the North American. The North American beaver is the largest rodent in the U.S., weighing between 35 to 65 pounds, with some tipping the scales at over 100! These furry swimmers grow up to 3 feet long (not including their tail), which is used for swimming, fat storage, communication, and even regulating body temperature.They’re also dental dynamos—those ever-growing teeth are kept in check through constant gnawing. And underwater? They’re practically aquatic ninjas, with transparent eyelids that act like goggles and the ability to hold their breath for up to 15 minutes.From Almost Extinct to Eco IconsIn the 1500s, beavers were nearly wiped out due to the fur trade and the demand for their gland secretions used in perfumes and medicines. But thanks to conservation efforts, laws, and public awareness, their populations are stable today. Canada even made the beaver its official national animal in honor of its role in the country’s early economy.People celebrate International Beaver Day in many ways:Take a nature walk and try spotting beavers or their dams near streams and wetlands.Dive into a book or documentary to learn more about these clever, eco-savvy creatures.Support conservation groups like Beavers: Wetlands & Wildlife that work to protect beaver habitats.Discover the legacy of Dorothy Richards, the "Beaver Woman," who dedicated over 50 years to studying beavers at the Beaversprite Sanctuary in New York.Beavers aren’t just cute—they’re critical to our planet’s health. Their tireless work supports biodiversity, prevents erosion, and even fights climate change by storing carbon in wetlands. This International Beaver Day, let’s give them the recognition they deserve and spread the word about these brilliant little builders.Because when a beaver gets to work, the whole world benefits.

7 Apr 2025

Global News

Sarah McBride Makes Historic Victory as the First Openly Transgender Person Elected to the U.S. Congress

In a groundbreaking moment for American politics, Sarah McBride has secured a historic victory in the race for Delaware's U.S. House seat, making her the first openly transgender individual to win a seat in Congress. McBride's win is not just a triumph for the LGBTQ+ community but also an evidence of the power of inclusive, forward-thinking leadership in a time of divisive politics.On election night, McBride triumphed over Republican challenger John Whalen III, a newcomer to politics and former state trooper. While the race presented its challenges, it became a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for transgender rights and representation. Her victory stands as a powerful symbol of the changing landscape of American politics, where diverse voices and identities are now recognized as strengths rather than obstacles. A Legacy of Activism and LeadershipBefore entering the political arena, McBride was already a well-known figure in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Her national recognition began in 2016 when she became the first openly transgender person to address a major party convention at the Democratic National Convention. Her emotional speech not only brought visibility to transgender issues but also gave voice to a community often excluded from mainstream political conversations.Since then, McBride’s activism and leadership have only grown. She has been an outspoken advocate for transgender rights, healthcare access, and economic justice. Throughout her career, McBride has focused on creating lasting change through tangible policy initiatives that benefit all Delawareans. Her role as a Delaware state senator saw her spearheading vital legislation aimed at improving the state’s healthcare system. Most notably, she championed the implementation of the ‘statewide paid family and medical leave insurance program’, which stands as one of her most significant accomplishments. Additionally, McBride has worked tirelessly to increase access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, including expanding dental care for low-income residents and improving Medicaid reimbursement rates for home healthcare services.Source: Google ImagesPolitical Campaigns: A Movement Fueled by PassionMcBride’s congressional campaign gained momentum not only because of her historic candidacy but also due to her extensive grassroots support and her ability to resonate with voters across the political spectrum. Raising over $3 million in campaign donations, McBride's financial backing was a reflection of her widespread appeal. People from all walks of life came together to support a candidate who represented progress, inclusivity, and a commitment to real change. Her opponent, John Whalen, ran a modest campaign that did not resonate with voters in the same way McBride’s message of progress and equality did. In a statement after her win, McBride highlighted the importance of fair-mindedness in the electorate, particularly in her home state of Delaware. "Tonight is a testament to Delawareans that we have shown time and again that in this state of neighbors, we judge candidates based on their ideas and not their identities," McBride said.The U.S. House seat that McBride now occupies had remained under Democratic control since 2010, largely thanks to Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, who vacated the seat to run for the U.S. Senate. McBride’s campaign was not just about continuing the legacy of Democratic leadership but about ensuring that transgender rights and LGBTQ+ inclusivity are integral to the national conversation. A New Era of Leadership As Sarah McBride prepares to take her seat in Congress, she does so with the knowledge that her victory is just the beginning. McBride’s message resonates not only with the LGBTQ+ community but with anyone who believes in a more inclusive, equitable society. Her win sends a powerful signal that politics is changing and that leadership is increasingly defined by the values of progress, compassion, and fairness.Her journey—from a dedicated LGBTQ+ advocate to an impactful political leader—is a symbol of hope for future generations of transgender individuals and marginalized communities across the globe.

8 Nov 2024

Global News

Saving the Bees: The EU has come up with a comprehensive Plan to Revive Pollinators

Bees and other pollinators are essential for crop production, yet their numbers are declining at an alarming rate. To reverse this trend, the European Union has recently released a seven-year plan. This plan includes measures such as creating buzz lines, or routes, across Europe where pollinators can move freely and find food and shelter. It also focuses on reducing land use changes, pesticides, pollution, invasive species, and climate change that are all known threats to pollinator populations. The EU is also monitoring emergency authorizations granted for dangerous pesticides, and prohibiting their use where not authorized. For example, France has dropped plans to allow the use of a prohibited pesticide on sugar beets due to its risks to bees. In addition to these measures, the EU is also looking at improving public awareness of pollinator decline and restricting the use of three neonicotinoid pesticides that would otherwise be harmful to them. A review of current measures revealed that more needed to be done to reverse the pollinator population decline. By 2030, all EU member states will be required to implement measures to reverse the pollinator decline, as mandated by the EU’s Nature Restoration Law. This seven-year plan is essential for saving our pollinators and ensuring our crops and wildflowers continue to thrive for future generations.

12 Feb 2023

Global News

Star Citizens

Pedaling for the Planet: An Extraordinary Journey of Grit and Green Goals

Vadodara's own Everester, Nisha Kumari, has just completed an awe-inspiring journey, cycling over 15,000 km across 16 countries to champion climate change awareness. After seven arduous months on the road, she triumphantly arrived in London, marking an extraordinary achievement in both endurance and environmental activism. deter her. Her unshakable spirit kept her going through difficult terrains, including glass ice roads in Russia and icy paths in Poland, where cycling laws added to the obstacles.Nisha’s resilience is nothing short of inspiring. Having lost nine fingers to frostbite during her 2023 Everest expedition, she refused to let physical challenges deter her.Witnessing Climate Change FirsthandThroughout her journey, Nisha encountered stark evidence of climate change. She witnessed landslides in Nepal, the drying Aral Sea in Uzbekistan, and diminishing snow levels in Russia. These experiences reinforced her mission, urging global communities to act before it’s too late.Accompanied by her coach Nilesh Barot, who piloted the expedition vehicle, Nisha did more than just cycle—she took action. The duo planted over 1,100 trees across various locations, including Paris, and engaged with climate experts in different countries. Their campaign, “Change Before Climate Change,” resonated with people worldwide, sparking conversations about sustainability.Covering 100-130 km daily, Nisha relied on discipline and endurance. She maintained a strict routine of meditation and morning workouts to keep both her body and mind strong. She and her coach are pure vegetarians and they often cooked their own meals. They also relied on dry snacks from India. Her training as an Everester helped her tackle the toughest conditions, ensuring she stayed on course despite delays and logistical hurdles.Source: Google ImagesNavigating Global ChallengesInitially slated to conclude by November, the expedition was delayed by 45 days due to border permissions while crossing from Nepal to China. However, with support from the Ministry of External Affairs and local Indian embassies, they overcame the bureaucratic challenges. Within India, Gujarat Police and other state forces ensured their security, making the initial leg of the journey smooth.Nisha Kumari’s journey was about more than personal triumph—it was a call to action. She and her team committed to planting trees in 200 cities and educating people about environmental conservation. She shared her experiences and gratitude on social media, stating, “This is just the beginning – let’s continue pushing for a greener, sustainable future.”Nisha Kumari's journey is a powerful reminder that individual actions can ignite global change. As she pedaled through diverse landscapes, she connected with countless individuals, inspiring them to reflect on their environmental impact. Nisha's story encourages us all to take that first step, however small, towards a more sustainable future.

10 Feb 2025

Star Citizens

Laughing in the Face of Adversity: How Comedy Star Sweta Mantri is Encouraging Social Change

Make lemonade when life hands you lemons! Ultimately, it all comes down to seeing life from an optimistic perspective. It was Sweta Mantrii's decision. When Sweta was watching comedies and healing from an injury one day, she had an epiphany: "I'm clever too." Why not combine that with disability-related humor? At that point, she realized she had a skill and made the decision to utilize it as a weapon to alter society. Sweta Mantri: who is she? Mantri had spina bifida from birth. It is a medical disease where there is a gap in the spine caused by improper development of the spinal cord and spine. She had physical treatment and surgery when she was young, which allowed her to walk with the help of crutches and a caliper. Sweta told NDTV, "Doctors said I won't survive for more than two months and if I do, I won't be able to walk until I'm ten years old." The Pune girl did not let her experiences with discrimination at school to stop her. People with disabilities have frequently faced challenges due to accessibility difficulties. Even in this day and age, people are still fighting for proper ramp and lift installation.(Source: Google Images) “Inaccessibility is a drawback that comes with being handicapped. I had to search for a hostel with a lift for two months after moving to Mumbai for business.” Sweta eventually turned into a handicapped rights activist and began organizing social awareness campaigns.She found that it was difficult at first. Sweta discussed how performing was a "downer" for her, but that people would come out to see her. Once more, she remained unfazed by life's faults. She persisted in honing her skills with resiliency. She is currently among the best stand-up comedians. She was really direct in her comedy back then. "If you feel awkward looking at my crutches, you can ignore them - like your crush ignores you," is one of her opening statements. Though it may come across as dark humor, with this, she was addressing ableism toward those with disabilities. Sweta proudly declares to the world , "I want to live in a world where inclusion is not an afterthought."

21 Aug 2024

Star Citizens

Lighting the Way: Anchal Bhateja’s Journey Through Blindness to Legal Stardom

Anchal Bhateja's vision was lost shortly before her board examinations. She made the decision to pursue her goals and put in twice as much effort as her classmates to become a lawyer. Here's how screen readers and other digital inclusion tools helped her and others just like her navigate life. The Power Of Courage is Unbeatable ~ Anchal Bhateja (Source: Google Images ) When asked how she handled turning entirely blind while in school, Anchal Bhateja responded, "Once blindness takes over, it shatters your world and you don't know what to do, where to go, especially after the doctor says that they can't do anything at this point." Anchal's Journey: Overcoming Visual Impairment and Embracing Digital Accessibility Anchal was born with restricted vision, which gradually worsened until she lost her sight entirely just before her class ten board exams. Despite this setback, she forged her own path to continue her education. She sought out resources and utilized a scribe to assist her in studying and taking exams. During this challenging time, Anchal met Bhatinda, a blind individual from her village who used computers equipped with screen readers. Bhatinda taught her how to navigate digital accessibility devices, marking the beginning of her journey into the world of digital tools for the visually impaired. Anchal successfully completed her education using audiobooks for her lessons and a scribe for her exams. Her story highlights the importance of digital accessibility, a cause championed globally on Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD). Observed annually on the third Thursday in May, GAAD aims to raise awareness about digital accessibility for people with disabilities. WebAIM, or "Web Accessibility in Mind," leads the efforts to promote digital accessibility. Through GAAD, impacted communities worldwide advocate for accessible digital technology, which is crucial for nearly a billion Persons with Disabilities (PwD) globally. Ensuring digital accessibility is not only a matter of civil rights but also essential for inclusive corporate practices. Life after Her Cure ~ Visual Impairment no Impediment ~ (Source: Google Images) “I had to figure it out all on my own. Most people, including my father, initially felt that I would not be able to continue my education. Despite my father being educated, he still didn’t know what was the way forward for me. I don’t blame them, that’s what any lay person feels about blindness,” she says. Anchal, who was adamant about finishing her education, took the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) and became the first blind student to enroll in the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), located in Bengaluru. Every new graduate and their parents have been concerned about the impending entrance examinations as admissions season approaches. Each of us should be reminded by Anchal's story that this too shall pass. Despite all of the obstacles, Anchal graduated from law school in 2023 and is now employed as an attorney at one of the leading legal firms in India. Her tale doesn't, however, finish with her passing the CLAT exams. That was, in many respects, the beginning after all. Anchal used to utilize a scribe to help her write her exams in her first year of college until her professor of legal theory suggested that she type out her responses. Anchal was hesitant at first, but she brought her laptop to the test room and started entering her answers. She finished it in three hours, which surprised her. After this, there was no turning back. Anchal continued taking all of her tests on her laptop, doing so without using a scribe. "I always finished my writing before the other students did, so I never needed the extra half an hour," Anchal beams. My friends make fun of the fact that I work in telecom, media, and technology law and that I live my whole life virtually. I use apps for everything—grocery, taxis, and everything else," she says. For many people with disabilities, independent life is now more feasible thanks to recent technological advancements and services, particularly app-based delivery and services. Lack of Digital Infrastructure As A Major Challenge ~ The dilemma of inadequate internet accessibility and awareness persists. Over 95% of the home pages of the 10,00,000 most popular websites had accessibility problems, according to WEBAIM's most recent Web Accessibility Report. This implies that certain websites are still inaccessible even for people with disabilities who have the necessary resources and expertise. Their work is also affected by this. Anchal must use internet archives to obtain case rulings as part of her legal profession. Nevertheless, websites that are approved by the courts lack accessible features. Due to this, Anchal frequently needs assistance from someone else to use these websites. Apart from this, Anchal talks about how not even the IT personnel completely understand the functionality of a screen reader and how to integrate it with office applications. The path of Anchal highlights how important it is that people become conscious of accessibility. Anchal’s journey underscores the vital role of digital accessibility in empowering individuals with disabilities. Her achievements remind us that with the right tools and support, overcoming even the most daunting challenges is possible. Her story inspires others to persist and strive for their goals, regardless of the obstacles they face.

29 May 2024

Star Citizens

Meet Armish Asija, Punjab's Fazilka's first flying officer in the Indian Air Force.

Being the first Indian Air Force pilot in the district, Dr. Armish Asija of Fazilka, Punjab, created history. On April 25, at the 58th passing-out procession of the commissioning ceremony, she led her company contingent. The 23-year-old, a devoted physician in the armed services, graduated from Pune's Armed Services Medical College. She is among the youngest officers in the IAF to have accomplished this achievement because of her exceptional academic performance and great devotion. The Smile Enlights Many Other Women Who Aspires To Live Their Dreams ~ ( Source: Google Images) Asija is the first member of her family to enlist in the military. She was a source of pride for her family as well as the whole Fazilka area. Her experience serves as a tribute to the strong will of women serving in the military. She encourages others to dream big and pursue their ambitions by serving as an inspiration. Amish Asija's Journey ~ Armish Asija secured the fifth rank in MBBS in her class of 150 at the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune. Asija was one of the only 30 women in her class. Speaking to Indian Express, she expressed, “I think now is the time when our society is under a very positive transitional phase for women. We have to give our 100 percent to consolidate and secure our space as women." Asija is the first flying officer from the Fazilka district and one of India's youngest women to achieve this. The 23-year-old led her company contingent during the passing-out ceremony on April 25. Talking about her achievement, she said, "It doesn’t matter if you are in Delhi or Fazilka, what one has to achieve, can be done from anywhere." Asija's big family including her grandmothers from the paternal and maternal sides of her family had come down to Pune to celebrate her graduation. "I was lucky that my family was so supportive. In fact, in situations where I felt a little doubtful, they would tell me to go ahead without any worries," she expressed. Asija's mother Sonika Asija is the head of the department of chemistry at Hisar's Guru Jambeshwar University of Science and Technology. Her father Mandeep Asija is an environmental engineer. She said, "Since childhood, I saw that there was immense respect for the armed forces at my home and that’s what made me realize that this job was different from everything else.” Her story illustrates the potent influence of a woman who maintains her ground in the face of hardship and believes in herself. It draws attention to the idea that, despite conventional gender norms and expectations, society frequently finds it difficult to embrace and accommodate these women. A woman who is completely aware of her value is courageous and determined, remaining strong in the face of adversity. Her unwavering determination sends a powerful message, motivating everyone around her and opening the door for a future in which all women will be empowered and included. Sometimes, the rules are made to be broken, especially if they're holding you back. Therefore say out and loud ~'Women Up!'

29 Apr 2024

Star Citizens

Tribal Trailblazer: Sripathi's Courageous Quest for Education and Equality

There is a widespread perception of tribals and tribal culture as backward, ignorant, and reactionary. However, V Sripathi, a 23-year-old woman, has defied this stereotype by becoming the first tribal woman to serve as a Civil Judge in her tribe. She serves as an example for other tribal and backward people. We frequently come across persons whom we tend to disregard. The list covers street sellers, laborers, beggars, rag pickers, and others. Even after a brief interaction with such folks, no one recalls their faces. However, Sripathi has demonstrated that a goal and the fortitude to attain it are all that is required to reach new heights. A Quick Background Check ~ Sripathi hails from the little hamlet Puliyur near Jawadhu Hills in Tamil Nadu's Tiruvannamalai. She is one of the few females who had the opportunity to attend school. Sripathi has had a sharp intellect since childhood and excelled as a student. Sripathi completed her schooling at Yelagiri Hills before pursuing a BA and Bachelor of Law. However, as is customary among tribals, Sripathi had to be married off at a young age. Fortunately, her spouse supported her and pushed her to pursue her education. Chief Minister MK Stalin praised Sripathi's accomplishments on Tuesday. Notably, she administered her selection examinations right after giving birth to her child. Her image with her infant child in front of the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission's headquarters is becoming popular on social media. Sripathi chose to risk her life by traveling to Chennai to take the test. She passed the exam and became the first indigenous woman Civil Judge in her village. Culture and Gender Dynamics in India's Tribes ~ Existing conventions, belief systems, traditions, and practices all help shape a society's culture. Society's culture differs by place and various factors. Gender roles and relationships are shaped by the existing culture of a society. Gender is a Western notion that relates to the distribution of work between men and women. This suggests that gender is a social construct, whereas sex is a biological word. Gender refers to the anticipated roles of men and women in terms of production, reproduction, and power dynamics in diverse societal contexts. Culture develops and transforms into its current form. Thus, variables that determine culture have a significant impact on gender. India is the world's second-largest home for tribal people. There is a popular belief that indigenous women have substantially greater independence in the workplace, decision-making, and empowerment than women from other castes in society. Gender roles and relationships differ among the country's indigenous cultures. Furthermore, mainstreaming, relocation, and globalization have had a tremendous impact on their traditional culture and gender interactions. With the introduction and exposure to a contemporary economy, the notion of women's empowerment is fast evolving throughout tribes. The exposure to a market-oriented economy and industrialized society had a tremendous impact on indigenous women's responsibilities at home and in society. Now, let's reach up to this point wherein stories in which such a perspective is likely to idealize tribal culture that denies patriarchy, providing a source of inspiration for women's movements in the mainstream. This also calls for introspection in the context of the ongoing debate in women's studies regarding the extent to which feminist theory and practice owe their origin to the experiences of Western and middle-class women across the globe. An Exceptional Accomplishment ~ CM Stalin praised her on X, saying, "I am delighted to see a young woman from a tribal community in a mountain village, with few amenities, achieve this status." I am pleased to learn this, and I congratulate her mother and husband on their persistent support. For those in Tamil Nadu who are afraid to mention the phrase social justice, the achievement of people like Sripathi is the nation's response. The DMK administration's "Dravidian Model" had implemented a policy that prioritized Tamil-medium students in government employment, allowing people like Sripathi to be appointed as judges. She married at an early age. Despite having given birth just a few days before, she traveled almost 200 kilometers to Chennai to pass her test in November 2023. Mahalakshmi, her mentor, said on Facebook that her family and friends helped her reach Chennai a day after her child's birth, like "a parachute fitted to Sripathi's wings." Udhayanidhi Stalin, the state sports minister and leader of the DMK's youth wing, alleged that the exam was set only two days after her child's birth. "her determination to risk her life and travel a long distance to attend the examination is commendable," he went on to say. Thus, her remarkable narrative demonstrates everlasting determination and devotion. Though the outcome of life is unknown, attaining reputation and renown is what we as humans strive for. However, only a few dare to defy stereotypes and establish precedents. They appear from nowhere and glow like stars. Let the dreams of Sripathi come true, who is an example to others that education is the only indestructible asset! This has raised the question of whether these early occupants' communities should be used as role models for women's movements across the world. Finally, it has highlighted an essential question of whether feminist movements are limited to established or advanced communities.

19 Feb 2024

Star Citizens

From Teacher to Protector: Asha Suman's Inspiring Journey

In a remarkable display of dedication and commitment, Asha Suman, a government school teacher from Alwar district in Rajasthan, has been empowering young girls by imparting self-defence training. Her efforts have earned her the prestigious National Award to Teachers-2023, presented by the President of India on Teachers' Day. Asha, who teaches at the Government Primary School in Kharkhara, Rajgarh block, has equipped thousands of girls with self-defence techniques, including visually impaired and speech and hearing disabled students. Her exceptional contributions in the fields of education, health, and safety have been recognized among the top 50 educators in the country. With a focus on curriculum development, community outreach, and women empowerment, Asha has directly interacted with over 50,000 women, promoting their empowerment and safety. Notably, she has dedicated herself to training disabled and deaf-mute girls, currently instructing a record-breaking 250 individuals. Additionally, she imparts self-defence and martial arts training to numerous school girls, women, and teachers. Asha's journey to this remarkable achievement was not without challenges. She commenced her teaching career in a remote and underprivileged area with no school building. Overcoming obstacles, she inspired families to prioritize education for their daughters, resulting in a significant increase in enrollment. A tragic incident near the school further fueled Asha's determination to ensure the safety of girls, leading her to teach self-defence techniques. The recognition of Asha's efforts with the National Award signifies the impact she has made in empowering girls and promoting their safety. Her story serves as an inspiration to educators and individuals alike, highlighting the transformative power of education and self-defence training in building confidence and resilience among young girls.

21 Sep 2023

Star Citizens

Meet Yogita Raghuvanshi, India’s First Female Truck Driver Who Is Also a Qualified Lawyer!

Yogita Raghuvanshi is a woman on the move..literally! She crisscrosses the nation as she drives her truck to support her young kids. Yogita is the first female truck driver of India. She has studied law and has also done a course in dress design. You may wonder why she didn’t pursue a career in law. Yogita reveals that she was left in the lurch after her husband passed away. She had two young kids to look after and the profession of law entailed that she work under a senior lawyer for a few initial years and grow in the field. Yogita realized that she could earn instantly by driving trucks and the job provides greater stability. She believes that as India is growing at a fast pace, there will always be demand for truck drivers. When you break the gender stereotype, people begin to look at you differently. Yogita was on the receiving end of snide comments, hostile stares and much more. She took all challenges in her stride and overcame them to make a better future for herself and her family. Busting stereotypes, today Yogita is a role model for women. She has even been featured in a film by Shell India. Great things happen when we move and once you start moving, the barriers and roadblocks mean nothing,” she declares.

21 Nov 2022

Star Citizens

Retired IAS Officer Strives to Bring a Change

V M Manohar Prasad was a regular visitor of Marlawai village in Telangana due to official and unofficial reasons. After his voluntary retirement from the Indian Administrative Services, he devoted much of his time in the village to set up schools to give quality education to children. The village had anganwadis which were operating as pre-primary schools, but the education imparted to students here was very substandard. The teachers were hardly qualified to teach and a third-grader could barely count numbers. Mothers found this education exercise a futile business and approached Manohar. Manohar realized that there is no concept of pre-primary school under the aegis of the government. Manohar and his wife, Ramadevi soon found great strength among the women in the village who wanted their children to be educated. The retired officers along with the concerned mothers decided to start community governed schools, having seen the futility of government schools. They collaborated with the Mahila Mandal Samakhya, a women self-help group in the village and entrusted them the task of identifying children between the ages of 3-5 and finding a suitable teacher, preferably woman, for the school. The couple started to work on the whole dynamics of primary education. It was a herculean task to contextualize the subjects for the children in the villages and it took them three years s to put together a proper curriculum. They also made it mandatory for teachers to go through a 16-week foundation course. They didn’t build any concrete schools. Schools were run under a tree, empty cowsheds, community halls or a kind villager would open the doors of his /her home to the children. Sometimes, the Anganwadi workers would allow classes in their premises. After the state of Telangana was formed, Manohar moved to East Godavari and helped set up 54 schools there, the first one being in the Gurtedu region, where he was once held captive by Naxals. Even today, the officer and his wife with the help of donors across the country are able to run the schools which are known as ‘Ma Ooru, Ma Badi’ (My Village, My School). They now intend to start a residential primary school complex where the students from nearby schools can avail education, as an alternative to government schools. In spite of his tremendous efforts and dedication to set up schools, Manohar modestly asserts that all 54 schools are a result of the efforts of the mothers, women who wanted their children to do something big in life. Image Source: Scroll.in

14 Sep 2019

Star Citizens

Rosila Wadher Is First Woman to Helm Wildlife Rescue Department

Rosila Wadher shot to fame in 2008 when she became the first woman forest guard of Gir National Park which is renowned as the last abode of the majestic Asiatic lions. The 33-year-old is in the limelight again as she becomes the first woman to head the wildlife rescue department of the sanctuary. Fearless Lady With Love For Wildlife What fills our minds with wonder is the fact that the gun-totting fearless lady, who was promoted as the sanctuary inspector two months ago, is the mother of a nine-month-old child whom she takes along if no one is there to take care. In 2008, Wadher was offered a posting in the back office of the forest department, but she was not one who would be content with a desk job. She yearned to go out in the wild and for that reason, she applied for the post of forest guard and she was fortunate enough to be selected for her dream job. Rescue Operations Wadher has rescued 1,100 wild animals in a career that spans a decade. She will now head the wildlife rescue department which was formed 22 years ago and which conducts around 700 rescue operations in a year in the districts of Junagadh, Gir-Somnath, Amreli, and Bhavnagar. However, her work is not restricted to these four districts. Wadher states that if there is a rescue call anywhere in Gujarat and there are no experts available, her team rushes to those places to help. Wadher’s job has become even more challenging due to lions residing close to human habitations. Wadher is enthusiastic about her work which she says is a 24 hours job because one never knows what happens when and where. Image Courtesy: India's Endangered

7 Aug 2019

Star Citizens

Positive Reads

Recyclable Clothing: Getting Consumers To Think About Their Purchases!

Materials engineers at the University of Delaware have developed a chemical recycling process to distinguish synthetic fibers like nylon from natural fibers like cotton, offering a potentially ground-breaking approach to clothes recycling. Approximately 10% of the garbage that ends up in landfills worldwide is from the fashion and textile sectors, most of it is not recyclable. Textiles made of nylon, polyester, and spandex release microplastics into the environment regularly, and most municipal recycling facilities lack the machinery necessary to deal with them. There are ways to recycle these clothing, at least in their entirety; however, the fibers cannot be recycled when mixed with wool or cotton. Paving Towards Sustainable Advancement ~ Process Of Recycling! By eliminating pollution, cutting waste, and preserving resources, recycling is essential to ensuring environmental sustainability. Examining recycling's future is more pertinent and fascinating than ever as society grows more conscious of the need for sustainable practices. Technological developments have made recycling operations much more effective and efficient. Automation in sorting and sophisticated recycling technology are examples of innovations that have improved recycling rates and decreased contamination. New recycling techniques that can handle complicated and mixed materials, such as chemical recycling, have also been made possible by these breakthroughs. Recycled Clothing Will Be The New Trend In Coming Years~ (Source: Google Images) “We need a better way to recycle modern garments that are complex because we are never going to stop buying clothes,” Erha Andini, a chemical engineer at the University of Delaware, told MIT’s Tech Review. “We are looking to create a closed-loop system for textile recycling.” Andini is the lead author of a study on a process she’s pioneering, which is out today in Science Advances, that uses a solvent to break the chemical bonds in polyester and nylon and cause the artificial threads to fall away from the natural ones. This allows for ideal recycling conditions for returning both threads to this closed-loop system. This altogether simple microwave energy to activate the solvent makes the process cheaper and more efficient regarding energy consumption. Obstacles Remain ~ Some of the recycled artificial fibers are too deteriorated for additional usage, which results in a substantial loss of value for the process when the recycled product is sold again. The solvent is notably expensive despite the low energy usage, which is the second problem. Andani isn't simply a chemical engineer, though; she is focused on commercializing the approach after receiving a fellowship for entrepreneurship. “Hopefully, once we can get pure components from each part, we can transform them back into yarn and make clothes again,” she says. “It’ll be a matter of having the capital or not, but we’re working on it and excited for it.”

11 Jul 2024

Positive Reads

Crunching the Numbers: How the Law of Averages Can Help You Make Smarter Decisions

The law of averages is a statistical principle that suggests that over time, the outcomes of a series of events will tend to even out, approaching the average or expected outcome. The law of averages is based on the idea that random events, such as coin tosses or dice rolls, will eventually produce results that reflect their underlying probabilities. For example, if you flip a fair coin 10 times, you might expect to get 5 heads and 5 tails. However, in reality, you might get 4 heads and 6 tails or 6 heads and 4 tails. Over a larger number of flips, however, the results will tend to even out, and you will approach the expected outcome of 5 heads and 5 tails. The law of averages has many practical applications. In the world of gambling, for example, it suggests that over time, the house will tend to win approximately the same percentage of bets as its edge over the players. In investing, the law of averages suggests that over time, the returns on a diversified portfolio of stocks will tend to reflect the long-term average returns of the stock market as a whole. It is important to note, however, that the law of averages is a statistical principle and does not guarantee any particular outcome in any given situation. In fact, it is entirely possible for a series of random events to produce results that are significantly different from the expected outcome, especially in the short term.

24 Apr 2023

Positive Reads