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India Creates History at EGMO 2026 with First-Ever Gold and Record-Breaking Finish

Under the elegant spring skies of Bordeaux, France, a quiet yet powerful story of brilliance unfolded. At the 15th European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO) 2026, India’s young minds achieved something truly historic. Competing against some of the brightest students from around the world, the Indian team delivered an exceptional performance—winning one gold, one silver, and one bronze medal and securing their best-ever team ranking. But beyond the medals and numbers lies a deeper story. It is a story of perseverance, intellectual courage, and the rising confidence of young Indian women in fields often perceived as challenging. For the first time ever, India celebrated a gold medal at EGMO. It was not just a personal victory for the student—it was a milestone for the nation.The Minds Behind the MilestoneThe four-member Indian team represented not just their states but also the aspirations of a country steadily making its mark in global academic competitions. Shreya Shantanu Mundhada from Mumbai, Maharashtra, emerged as the star of the team, securing the historic gold medal. Her achievement marks a defining moment in India’s journey at EGMO. Sanjana Philo Chacko from Kerala added to the pride with a silver medal, showcasing remarkable problem-solving skills and consistency. Shivani Barath Kumar from Tamil Nadu earned a bronze medal, contributing to the team’s strong overall performance. Completing the team was Shrimoyee Bera from Kolkata, whose effort and participation played an important role in India’s collective success. Together, these young women formed a team that combined talent, discipline, and determination—qualities that stood out on an international stage.India’s Best-Ever Global RankingThe 2026 edition of EGMO saw participation from 260 students across 67 countries, including 41 European nations. The competition was intense, with each participant facing complex mathematical problems designed to test creativity, logic, and depth of understanding. Amid this global competition, India secured the 6th position—its highest ranking since it began participating in EGMO in 2015. This achievement is not just a number; it reflects years of steady progress and the strengthening of India’s academic training systems. Climbing to the top ranks in such a prestigious competition requires more than talent. It demands preparation, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure. India’s performance in Bordeaux is a clear sign that it is now among the leading nations in mathematical excellence.This year’s participation carried an added significance.It was only the second time that India sent an all-woman contingent to EGMO. In a field where representation matters deeply, this team became a symbol of empowerment. Their success challenges stereotypes and sends a powerful message—that young women in India are not only participating in STEM fields but excelling at the highest levels. For many young girls watching from across the country, this achievement is more than inspiring. It is reassuring. It tells them that their dreams are valid, their abilities are real, and their potential is limitless.The Backbone of SuccessBehind every achievement like this lies a strong support system. India’s success at EGMO 2026 is the result of sustained efforts in training and mentorship. The EGMO Training Camp (EGMOTC) played a crucial role in preparing the students. Through rigorous sessions, challenging problem-solving exercises, and guidance from experienced mentors, the camp ensured that the participants were ready to face the global stage. Institutions like the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE) have been at the forefront of this effort. As a premier institution under the Department of Atomic Energy, HBCSE is responsible for identifying and nurturing talented students across the country. Its structured approach to training has consistently helped Indian students perform well in international Olympiads. Support from the National Board for Higher Mathematics (NBHM) further strengthens this ecosystem, ensuring that students receive the resources and guidance they need.A Bright Future AheadIndia’s performance at EGMO 2026 is not just a milestone; it is a glimpse into the future. It shows what is possible when talent is nurtured and opportunities are provided. As the country continues to invest in education and academic excellence, achievements like this will become more frequent. More importantly, they will inspire a new generation of students to explore fields like mathematics with confidence and enthusiasm. From classrooms in Mumbai, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Kolkata to an international stage in France, this journey reflects the power of education to transform lives. In Bordeaux, India did not just win medals. It earned respect, recognition, and a place among the world’s best. And perhaps most importantly, it proved that brilliance knows no boundaries.

20 Apr 2026

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Powering the Future: India Hits 50% Non-Fossil Electricity Capacity, Five Years Ahead of Schedule

As the world grapples with climate change and energy insecurity, India has delivered a powerful statement in 2025. The country has achieved 50% non-fossil installed electricity capacity—five years ahead of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target for 2030. This milestone is not just a statistic; it marks a defining moment in India’s journey towards a greener, more self-reliant energy future.According to the latest figures, India had set a target of 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030. Remarkably, by 2025, the combined installed and pipeline non-fossil capacity had already touched around 507 GW. This early achievement underscores the scale, speed, and ambition of India’s energy transition.A Rapid Rise in Non-Fossil PowerIndia’s non-fossil installed capacity has grown from 81 GW to 263 GW over the years—an impressive increase of nearly 225%. This growth reflects sustained policy support, large-scale project execution, and increasing participation from both public and private players.At the heart of this transformation lies renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power. Together, they have reshaped India’s electricity landscape and reduced its dependence on conventional fossil fuels.Solar Energy: The Star PerformerSolar energy has emerged as the undisputed driver of India’s clean energy push. Installed solar capacity has surged from just 2.8 GW in 2014 to an astounding 133 GW in 2025—an increase of over 4,500%.This boom has been fuelled by utility-scale solar parks, rapid rooftop solar adoption, and innovative hybrid renewable tenders. Government initiatives such as the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, aimed at providing rooftop solar connections to one crore households, have further accelerated adoption at the grassroots level.Between 2022 and 2024 alone, India added around 46 GW of solar power, making it the third-largest contributor to global solar capacity additions during this period.Wind, Bioenergy, and a Balanced MixWind energy has continued its steady climb, with installed capacity rising from about 21 GW to 54 GW since 2014—a growth of 155%. Biopower, driven by agricultural residue and organic waste, has also expanded from 8.1 GW to 12 GW, registering a 42% increase.Together, these sources have helped diversify India’s renewable energy mix, making the grid more resilient and regionally balanced.Manufacturing Muscle and Self-Reliance2025 has also been a breakthrough year for renewable energy manufacturing in India. Domestic solar module manufacturing capacity has increased from 2 GW to 123 GW—an increase of more than 6,000%. Solar cell manufacturing, virtually absent before 2014, now stands at 27 GW, while wafer manufacturing capacity has reached 2.2 GW.India has also established 3.2 GW of fully integrated manufacturing facilities, covering the entire solar value chain. This shift has strengthened supply chains, reduced import dependence, and aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.Global Recognition and Economic GainsIndia’s clean energy progress has earned strong international recognition. In 2023, the country overtook Japan to become the world’s third-largest solar power generator, producing 1,08,494 GWh of solar electricity.According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), India’s energy transition has saved nearly ₹4 lakh crore (about $46 billion) in fossil fuel and pollution-related costs. Fossil fuel savings alone account for approximately $14.9 billion—a significant economic dividend of going green.Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi has called the early achievement of the 50% target a moment of national pride, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for steering India’s green transformation.Storage Takes Centre StageIn 2025, energy storage moved from concept to cornerstone. Battery Energy Storage Systems received strong policy backing, including viability gap funding for grid-scale projects. Pumped storage projects also gained momentum, with multiple proposals advancing across states.These developments are crucial for integrating large volumes of renewable energy while ensuring grid stability.As India looks beyond 2025, the message is clear: the clean energy transition is no longer aspirational—it is operational. By achieving its targets early, India has not only strengthened its energy security but also positioned itself as a global climate leader, ready to power growth sustainably in the decades ahead.

30 Dec 2025

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Ajith Kumar Wins Gentleman Driver of the Year 2025 in Venice

Ajith Kumar has done it again, this time, not with a blockbuster film, but with sheer horsepower and heart. The actor, long admired for his passion for motorsport, has been honored with the Gentleman Driver of the Year 2025 award in Venice, Italy. Presented by the Philippe Charriol Motorsport Group, the recognition has ignited a wave of celebration among fans, cinephiles, and the international racing community.This accolade pushes Ajith beyond the realm of cinema and firmly into the global motorsport spotlight. The Venice ceremony marked a defining moment not just in his racing career but in his journey as an artist unafraid to reinvent himself.A Proud Family Moment in VeniceThe announcement was made even more special by a heartfelt note shared by actor Shalini, Ajith’s wife, who took to Instagram to celebrate the milestone. "It is an honor for me to stand with my husband in Venice as he receives this award," she wrote, alongside photos of the couple and their family radiating pride.The images captured Ajith in his trademark calm demeanor: grounded, humble, yet glowing with the quiet satisfaction of a man who chases excellence in every direction he turns.Upon receiving the award, Ajith spoke with sincerity and depth. He paid tribute to the late Philippe Charriol and said that his experience in the motorsport world has been exciting, challenging, and a pleasure. His words reflected the grace and gratitude that define his public persona.A Breakout Year in Global MotorsportThe honor comes at a time when Ajith’s motorsport trajectory is accelerating like never before. Through the Ajith Kumar Racing Team, which began competing internationally in early 2025, he has been representing India in multiple endurance racing categories.His team has already earned:Two third-place finishesOne second-place winThese achievements across grueling 12-hour and 24-hour endurance formats have earned admiration from motorsport enthusiasts worldwide while bringing immense pride to Tamil Nadu and India.Those who have followed Ajith closely know this is not a sudden leap. His devotion to racing has spanned decades. But insiders reveal that his current momentum is the result of deliberate focus. By December 2024, Ajith had completed all film commitments, including Vidaamuyarchi and Good Bad Ugly, wrapping even dubbing portions in days to ensure uninterrupted dedication to his racing goals.This clarity, commitment, and discipline have shaped the racing champion he is today.Fans Celebrate, and Cinema Awaits His Next MoveThe Venice award sparked a festival of emotions online. Fans flooded social media with congratulatory messages, videos, and montages celebrating their idol’s unprecedented achievement.But even amidst the euphoria, the actor’s film career remains very much in motion. Ajith is now gearing up for his next big-screen venture, AK64, directed by Adhik Ravichandran. An official announcement is around the corner—and anticipation is sky-high.From the racetrack to the silver screen, Ajith Kumar continues to be a force of nature, proving that passion, discipline, and relentless drive can take you to extraordinary heights.

24 Nov 2025

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Historic Win: India’s Women’s Blind Cricket Team Lifts the First-Ever T20 World Cup

India’s women’s blind cricket team has etched its name in sporting history, lifting the inaugural Blind T20 Women’s World Cup in a moment that radiates courage, grit, and pure sporting magic. The championship was more than a victory, it was a celebration of resilience and a bold statement on inclusion in sport.In a thrilling finale, the Indian team, led by Captain Deepika TC, clinched the title by defeating the Nepal Women's Blind Cricket Team by seven wickets. India’s dominance was so complete that the opponents could muster only one boundary in their entire innings. In the chase, Phula Saren led the charge with an unbeaten 44. The match, held at Colombo’s historic venue, saw Nepal post a respectable 114-5. India responded emphatically with 117-3 in just 12 overs, underscoring their dominance and composure under pressure.As the Indian squad took home the glittering trophy, the atmosphere was electric. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, who presented the award, encapsulated the magnitude of the moment, calling it “really empowering.” She praised the players for not only improving the sport but also helping the world talk more about making sports accessible for visually impaired athletes.Sport Reimagined: How Blind Cricket ThrivesBlind cricket is a stunning blend of skill, sound, and instinct. While traditional cricket relies heavily on sight, this version transforms the game into a multidimensional experience.At the heart of it lies the jingling ball—a white plastic sphere, similar in size to a tennis ball, filled with ball bearings that rattle as it moves. The bowler must alert the striker by first checking readiness and then shouting “play!” before delivering an underarm ball that must bounce at least once. Every sound matters, every rattle, every clap, every call.It doesn’t end there. Fielders clap to signal their positions. Batters tune into the rhythm of the ball. Bowlers refine the precision of their underarm delivery. This immersive structure allows players to navigate the field with remarkable coordination.A blind cricket team mirrors the standard 11-player format but with special classifications ensuring fairness. At least four players must be totally blind, known as B1. Players wear blindfolds during play, and every run scored by a B1 cricketer counts as two. Other teammates fall under B2 and B3 categories, depending on the distance to which they can see, from two metres to six. Teams can include up to eight totally blind players, balancing strategy with inclusivity.“More Than Just a Competition”Prime Minister Amarasuriya’s words echoed across the stadium:“This World Cup is more than just a competition. It is a collective statement about access, equity, and the growing participation of women in sport.”Her message underscored a crucial truth: that the tournament wasn’t just about cricket. It was about rewriting the narrative for women with disabilities, proving that skill, strength, and spirit transcend physical limitations.She added that inclusion must guide how nations design their sporting futures, acknowledging that events like this bring visibility, break stereotypes, and inspire policymakers to build broader sporting ecosystems.India’s Victory: An Inspiration for GenerationsFor India, this win is a monumental leap. It amplifies the voices of visually impaired athletes who have long pushed boundaries to pursue their passion. It shines a spotlight on women who refuse to be boxed in by circumstance. And it marks a turning point for the sport, setting the stage for more robust support, funding, and visibility.The inaugural Blind T20 Women’s World Cup has done exactly what a landmark event should do, that is, create heroes, ignite conversations, and sow the seeds for a more inclusive sporting culture.India may have lifted the trophy, but the world has won something bigger: a renewed belief in what sport can inspire, unite, and empower.

23 Nov 2025

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The Green Revolution Run by Women: Inside Asia’s Biggest Nursery

In the heart of Tamil Nadu, a remarkable initiative is quietly transforming both the environment and the lives of women. Operated by the Isha Foundation, this plant nursery is Asia’s largest single-site nursery managed entirely by women. Part of the ambitious Cauvery Calling project, the nursery is contributing to a massive reforestation effort aimed at replenishing the Cauvery River basin across Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The project envisions planting 2.42 billion trees over a 12-year period, aiming to restore ecological balance, increase green cover, and revive water tables. With a goal this monumental, every sapling counts. Last year alone, the Cauvery Calling initiative planted 1.2 crore trees in Tamil Nadu, with the women-run nursery producing an astonishing 85 lakh saplings. The saplings are dispatched to farmers, marking yet another step in a transformative environmental mission. The nursery, currently in full bloom, is a symbol of hope for both the environment and women's empowerment.Empowering Women Through Green WorkWhat makes this nursery exceptional is not just its scale but also its human story. The entire operation, from cultivation to financial management, is handled exclusively by women. These women manage planting schedules, irrigation, maintenance, and quality checks, proving their expertise in a field historically dominated by men. For many of these women, the nursery represents more than employment; it is a platform for empowerment. Working in an organized, large-scale operation allows them to earn a livelihood, gain financial independence, and develop leadership skills. Their work ensures that farmers across the Cauvery basin receive healthy, robust saplings, supporting the reforestation mission while also giving women a tangible role in shaping India’s environmental future. The all-women team of the nursery embodies resilience and dedication. From the early morning hours spent tending to seedlings to overseeing the dispatch of saplings to distant farmers, their commitment is unwavering. The Science of Saplings and ReforestationRunning Asia’s largest nursery requires not only dedication but also meticulous planning and scientific know-how. The nursery cultivates a wide variety of saplings suitable for different soil types and climatic conditions across the Cauvery basin. Each sapling is nurtured under controlled conditions to ensure high survival rates when planted by farmers. The Cauvery Calling project leverages both traditional knowledge and modern horticultural practices to maximize impact. Women nursery managers monitor growth cycles, implement natural pest management strategies, and ensure sustainable watering practices. This attention to detail results in saplings that are more likely to thrive in the field, strengthening the Cauvery River ecosystem over time. By producing millions of saplings annually, the nursery contributes significantly to increasing tree cover, improving soil health, and restoring groundwater levels. As these trees grow, they absorb carbon, combat soil erosion, and provide habitats for local wildlife, creating a cascading effect of ecological benefits.Impact Beyond BordersThe significance of this nursery extends far beyond Tamil Nadu. By combining large-scale reforestation with women's empowerment, it serves as a model for similar initiatives across Asia and the world. It highlights how environmental sustainability can be paired with social justice, ensuring that development benefits both nature and people. The Cauvery Calling project’s scale is immense, but its approach is replicable. By showing that women can lead large, technically demanding nurseries, the initiative challenges societal norms and encourages other organizations to adopt inclusive models. The nursery proves that women’s leadership is not only possible but essential in tackling complex challenges like climate change, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss.A Blooming FutureAs millions of saplings make their way to farmers across the Cauvery basin, the women of the nursery continue to sow hope, one plant at a time. Their work is a reflection of what is possible when vision, science, and social empowerment come together. Over the next decade, as trees mature and rivers flow fuller, the impact of their dedication will be visible in every green leaf, in every replenished water table, and in every empowered woman who made it happen. This nursery is more than a site for growing trees; it is a symbol of innovation and human connection. It reminds us that environmental conservation is most effective when communities are actively involved and that empowering women is one of the most powerful ways to create sustainable change.

28 Oct 2025

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Amit Kshatriya Appointed to NASA’s Highest-Ranking Civil Service Role, Inspires Indians Worldwide

On September 3, Acting NASA Administrator Sean P. Duffy announced the appointment of Amit Kshatriya as the new Associate Administrator of NASA, the highest-ranking civil service role within the agency. This role places Kshatriya at the helm of operational leadership, serving as the chief operating officer of NASA. He will directly oversee the agency’s 10 center directors and the mission directorate associate administrators at NASA Headquarters in Washington, ensuring the smooth functioning of projects that define humanity’s future in space. This appointment cements Kshatriya’s position as not just an administrator but as one of the most influential voices shaping the next chapter of human space exploration.From Wisconsin to the Stars: Early Life and EducationAmit Kshatriya’s story is rooted in the immigrant dream. Born in Wisconsin and raised in Katy, Texas, he is the son of first-generation Indian immigrants who instilled in him the values of hard work, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity. An alumnus of some of the most prestigious institutions in the US, Kshatriya earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in 2000, followed by advanced studies at the University of Texas at Austin. His academic journey was marked by a fascination for both problem-solving and engineering, skills that would later define his NASA career.Two Decades of NASA ServiceKshatriya joined NASA in 2003 as a software engineer, robotics engineer, and spacecraft operator, focusing on the robotic assembly of the International Space Station (ISS). His early career revolved around precision, innovation, and ensuring the ISS remained a cornerstone of global space research. Over the years, his technical brilliance and leadership skills propelled him into senior roles. Notably, he became one of only 100 people in history to serve as a mission control flight director, a responsibility that required both technical mastery and calm decision-making under immense pressure.Leading the Artemis and Moon to Mars ProgramsOne of Kshatriya’s most impactful contributions came during his leadership of NASA’s Artemis campaign and Moon to Mars Program. These initiatives are central to humanity’s efforts to return to the Moon and lay the foundation for the first human mission to Mars. As head of the Moon to Mars Programme, he managed planning and execution for crewed missions, balancing the technical complexity of spacecraft design with the human dimension of astronaut safety. This role demanded both vision and practicality, qualities Kshatriya has consistently demonstrated. His leadership in Artemis ensured that the program moved beyond theory into a clear pathway for action, symbolizing the revival of deep space exploration for the 21st century.Recognition and AwardsKshatriya’s dedication has been widely recognized within NASA. In 2013, he received the Silver Snoopy Award, a prestigious honor given personally by astronauts to employees who have significantly contributed to human spaceflight. In 2017, he was awarded the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal for his exemplary role as lead flight director during the 50th expedition to the International Space Station. These honors reflect not just his technical abilities but also his capacity to inspire trust and confidence among colleagues and astronauts alike.The son of Indian immigrants who dreamed beyond borders and dedicated his life to expanding humanity’s reach into the cosmos. For Indian-origin communities across the world, his rise is symbolic. It demonstrates how talent, hard work, and determination can break ceilings, even in fields as demanding as aerospace engineering and space exploration. His story resonates not only as professional success but as a triumph of identity, diversity, and global interconnectedness.

7 Sep 2025

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India Shines at IMO 2025: A Golden Legacy of Young Mathematical Minds

In a proud moment for the nation, India’s brightest young minds have once again made their mark on the international stage. At the 66th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) 2025, held in Australia, India secured three gold, two silver, and one bronze medal, finishing 7th globally. This year’s result adds another golden chapter to India's growing legacy in competitive mathematics.The Stars of India: Young Mathematicians, Big DreamsSix students represented India at this year’s IMO and returned home with accolades that speak volumes of their talent and hard work. Kanav Talwar (Delhi) – GoldAarav Gupta (Delhi) – GoldAditya Mangudi (Maharashtra) – GoldAbel George Mathew (Karnataka) – SilverAdish Jain (Delhi) – SilverArchit Manas (Delhi) – BronzeThese are not just names; they represent long nights of problem-solving, untold hours of training, and a passion for numbers that burns bright.A Record-Breaking PerformanceThis year marks a significant milestone for India at the IMO: Three gold medals (only the second time since 1998 this has happened) and the highest cumulative score ever (193/252), the third consecutive year in the top 10 (9th in 2023, 4th in 2024, 7th in 2025). India’s performance has shown consistent improvement, not just in medal tally but also in overall rankings. Experts say this is a reflection of a stronger training ecosystem and increased student interest in mathematics.The People Behind the Win Success at the IMO is not just the effort of students alone. Behind every medal lies a team of dedicated mentors and educators. This year, the Indian team trained at the IMO Training Camp held at the Chennai Mathematical Institute (CMI), guided by some of the finest mathematical minds: Prof. Shanta Laishram (Indian Statistical Institute, Delhi)Dr. Mainak Ghosh (ISI Bengaluru)Atul Shatavart Nadig (Undergraduate, MIT, USA—and a former IMO medalist himself)Dr. Rijul Saini. The Indian team is coordinated by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), which serves as the national hub for Olympiad programs in science and mathematics.The Global Stage: Math Without BordersThe International Mathematical Olympiad is more than just a competition. It’s a celebration of logic, creativity, and youthful brilliance from around the world. A total of 630 students from over 100 countries, including 69 female participants, competed this year. The six problems presented at the IMO 2025 were curated from around the world, including submissions from the USA, Vietnam, Colombia, Lithuania, Italy, and Singapore, covering Algebra, Geometry, Combinatorics, and Number Theory. Globally, China, the USA, and South Korea topped the rankings, but India’s placement among the top 10 continues to signal its growing presence in the world of mathematics.As India continues to climb the global mathematical ranks, this year’s performance is both a celebration and a challenge. A celebration of the incredible talent among our youth and a challenge to nurture, support, and expand access to mathematical education across the country. In a world increasingly driven by data, technology, and complex systems, the ability to think critically—a skill at the heart of mathematics—has never been more vital. And if the young minds of IMO 2025 are any indication, India’s future in mathematics is not only bright, it’s golden.

21 Jul 2025

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Women Engineers Lead India’s First Bullet Train Project

In 2023, fresh-faced engineering graduates from across India joined Larsen & Toubro’s high-profile Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project. Today, they’ve become senior engineers, overseeing key operations in the Vadodara precast factory. These women lead vital areas of planning, quality control, production, and dispatch manufacturing over 9,000 noise barrier panels a month for India’s inaugural bullet train.Precision Engineering Meets High-Speed AmbitionsKnown officially as the MAHSR project, the bullet train will run through Maharashtra, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Gujarat, covering over 500 km and reducing travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to under three hours. L&T is responsible for nearly all civil works, including 468 km of viaducts, nine stations, full electrification, and key track installations. The precast noise barriers these engineers produce will reduce sound levels along the line—crucial for both commuter comfort and environmental mitigation.Leading from the Factory FloorEach engineer holds responsibility for core functions. Adithiya R (planning-in-charge): Coordinates raw materials, workforce, and daily production targets. Her toolbox talks enforce safety guidelines and review goals before each shift begins. Sumayya PS (Quality-in-Charge): Responsible for rigorous incoming-materials inspections—testing concrete mix properties, slump, and temperature to ensure each panel meets strict standards. Rashid (Dispatch-in-charge): Manages trailer movements and ensures the safe delivery of panels to construction sites, balancing logistics with tight deadlines. Rangu Sravanthi (Production-in-charge): Runs daily crew briefings, enforces safety and targets, and ensures smooth operation of production lines. Their authority extends well beyond technical tasks—each owns her domain fully, making autonomous decisions that shape the project’s success.Breaking Barriers—Both Concrete and CulturalFor many, the idea of an all-women engineering team in a heavy-civil construction site was unexpected. Integrating into traditionally male work environments brought initial resistance. But through competence and teamwork, perceptions changed. Language differences and cultural unfamiliarity meant the women first faced communication barriers. But shared work goals forged trust over time. Today, they collaborate seamlessly with the crew—a testament not only to their technical skill but also to their leadership and interpersonal strength. The recruits underwent an intensive six-month orientation that combined technical training with soft skills workshops. They learned on-site precast methods, safety protocols, equipment operations, and project-specific tools under the mentorship of senior professionals. Leadership and confidence-building sessions prepared them for responsibility.Empowerment Through PrecisionThese women aren’t just engineers; they are symbols of transformation. They challenge the "less than 20%" female representation in India’s infrastructure sector while proving high-speed projects depend as much on dedication and discipline as on bricks and mortar. Their success is measured not only in panels built and dispatched but also in skill growth, quality compliance, leadership, and the ecosystems they nurture. L&T doesn’t just want a functional factory; they envision a model of inclusive growth. The Vadodara unit, with its female-led core, is shaping up to be a blueprint for future units in track laying, digital monitoring, asset management, and quality control. The team’s success sends a powerful signal: diversity is not just good; it’s essential. When the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train begins operations, it will be India’s fastest rail corridor, transforming travel and regional economies. But the impact won’t stop at high-speed travel. The all-women team at Vadodara is already engineering a social transformation, creating a legacy of empowerment, equity, and excellence in India’s infrastructure sector.

12 Jul 2025

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Checkmate Champions: India's Team MGD1 Crowned FIDE World Rapid Team Champions

Team MGD1, a Pune-based chess management firm, emerged victorious in the 12-round Swiss-format tournament, winning 10 matches, drawing one, and losing one, to finish with 21 points. This impressive performance earned them the top spot, edging out Hexamind Chess Team, which finished with 20 points.The Team's BrillianceThe Indian squad was a powerful blend of seasoned champions and rising stars, a perfect storm of talent and determination. Leading the charge was the dynamic Arjun Erigaisi, backed by the fierce skills of Harikrishna Pentala, the promising Pranav V, the relentless Leon Luke Mendonca, the energetic Atharvaa Tayade, and the strategic Hariharan Raghavan. Adding firepower from beyond borders, Spanish Grandmaster David Anton Guijarro and Greek International Master Stavroula Tsolakidou brought their world-class expertise, elevating the team to new heights. Every player stepped up, every move counted, and together they forged a path to victory, proving that true strength lies in unity, grit, and unwavering spirit.Atharvaa Tayade's Perfect RunAtharvaa P Tayade lit up the tournament with a remarkable display of grit and determination. As the team’s amateur board player, he stormed through the competition with an unbroken winning streak, dominating every match over the intense three-day battle. His flawless run became the backbone of MGD1’s momentum, inspiring teammates and striking fear into opponents. Though the final round brought a tough challenge, Atharvaa’s relentless spirit and fearless play left an unforgettable mark.The Final MatchThe atmosphere was electric as MGD1 stepped onto the battlefield against Malcolm’s Mates in a high-stakes showdown. Every move carried the weight of victory or defeat. The tension peaked when Pranav V faced off against Ivan Šarić in the clash of titans that would decide it all. With nerves of steel, Pranav delivered a masterstroke, clinching the decisive win that sealed MGD1’s claim to the top spot. But the fight was far from over. Arjun Erigaisi and Atharvaa Tayade rose to the occasion, securing critical victories that crushed any hope of a comeback. In that final, pulsating moment, the team’s unbreakable focus turned pressure into triumph, forever etching their names in glory.Viswanathan Anand's PraiseFive-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand, whose team Freedom took third place with 17 match points, praised the format of the event, saying, "What is commendable is that so many teams composed of fans and club players chose to participate, giving it a slight festival feel."The Significance of the WinThis victory isn’t just a trophy; it’s a historic breakthrough. Team MGD1 has blazed a trail as the first Indian squad to conquer this tournament in its short but fierce three-year run. Their triumph stands as powerful proof of the unstoppable rise of Indian chess, showcasing a new era fueled by talent, hard work, and unshakable belief. This win sends a clear message to the world: Indian players are not just participants; they’re champions in the making, ready to dominate on the global stage.The FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships 2025The event, held in London, featured 52 teams from around the world, with over 110 grandmasters participating. The tournament's structure, which allows teams to be composed of club members, members of different federations, or any other chess players, promotes inclusivity and provides opportunities for new talents to shine. The FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships 2025 has set a new standard for team chess tournaments, and its success is expected to inspire more players and teams to participate in the future. As FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich stated, “This pivotal event distinguishes itself as the largest team tournament featuring both professional and non-professional players.”

16 Jun 2025

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Queens of the Turf: India’s Fierce Five-Match Hockey Tour of Australia Begins!

From the heartlands of Simdega to the global stage in Perth, the Indian women’s hockey team is not just participating — they are leading a quiet revolution. Under the dynamic leadership of Salima Tete, a prodigy from Jharkhand, and the tireless support of vice-captain Navneet Kaur, the team is redefining the contours of the game.Their journey stands as a powerful testament to resilience. Salima’s rise — from humble beginnings in rural Jharkhand to captaining the national side — embodies the spirit of determination and grit that now fuels the team's ambitions on the world stage.Clash of Titans: India's Date with Destiny in Australia Set against the backdrop of the Perth Hockey Stadium, the Indian team embarks on a five-match series from April 26 to May 4. The initial two matches pit them against Australia A on April 26 and 27, followed by three high-octane games against the senior Australian team on May 1, 3, and 4.This series is more than just a set of matches; it's a crucible where strategies are tested, and legends are forged. With a recent morale-boosting shootout victory against World No. 1 Netherlands, the Indian team is poised to challenge the best.The New Vanguard of Indian HockeyThe squad is a blend of seasoned stalwarts and promising newcomers. Goalkeeper Savita, recently celebrating her 300th international cap, brings invaluable experience to the team. Defensive dynamo Udita Singh and midfield maestro Vaishnavi Phalke are set to anchor the team's core. The forward line boasts talents like Deepika, whose drag-flicking prowess has been instrumental in recent victories. Adding fresh energy to the mix are debutants Jyoti Singh, Sujata Kujur, Ajmina Kujur, Pooja Yadav, and Mahima Tete, ready to make their mark on the international stage.Beyond the Game: A Movement of Empowerment and EqualityThis tour transcends the boundaries of sport; it's a statement of empowerment and a stride towards gender equality. Coach Harendra Singh emphasizes the importance of this series as a preparatory ground for the upcoming European leg of the FIH Pro League. Salima Tete echoes this sentiment, highlighting the team's rigorous training and the invaluable experience the young players will gain. The Indian women’s hockey team fought valiantly, showcasing their grit and spirit, before going down 3-5 to a clinical Australia 'A' side in their opening match of the tour Down Under on Saturday. Undeterred, the team remains determined to learn, adapt, and come back stronger in the battles ahead, carrying the hopes of a nation with them.

27 Apr 2025

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India’s Golden Arrow: A Triumph at the Archery World Cup 2025!

The spotlight shone brightly on the incredible duo of Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Rishabh Yadav and their historic gold medal in the compound mixed team event of the Archery World Cup 2025 at Auburndale, USA. Their win marked the beginning of India’s golden journey toward the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.The final against Chinese Taipei’s Huang I-Jou and Chen Chieh-Lun was nothing short of cinematic. India trailed 38-37 after the first set, 77-75 midway, and 115-114 going into the final end. But champions don’t panic, they perform. With two perfect 10s, an X (dead center), and a 9, they turned the tide with a dramatic 153-151 victory. It was magic in motion.Golden Duo, Glorious Start: 1 Gold, 1 Bronze! India’s route to the top was paved with unshakeable focus. Ranked fifth, they began their golden campaign with a commanding 156-149 win over 12th-seeded Spain. Then came the mighty fourth-seeded Denmark, taken down 156-154. In the semi-finals, Slovenia pushed hard, but India’s arrows flew truer, sealing a 159-155 victory. Every round tested their mettle, but Jyothi and Rishabh answered with firepower. And with the Olympics just a few years away, this medal sparkled not just with gold, but with possibility.Beyond the Spotlight: Precision, Passion, Podium! While Jyothi and Rishabh stole the show, the Indian archery contingent shone across events. Earlier, Rishabh Yadav, alongside Abhishek Verma and Ojas Deotale, secured a brilliant bronze in the men’s compound team event, showing depth and talent in India’s lineup. These victories weren’t isolated, they were interconnected pulses of a team operating with harmony, determination, and national pride. India secured a commendable fourth place among 12 competing nations.A Nation's Pride, A Future of India’s Star Archers!The Archery World Cup, with its four global stages, serves as the proving ground for elite archers worldwide, and India has now etched its name among the best. With LA 2028 on the horizon and compound mixed team archery making its Olympic debut, Jyothi and Rishabh’s golden run couldn’t have come at a more powerful moment.As the Indian flag fluttered proudly under the American sky, and the anthem played loud and proud, the nation collectively held its breath, then exhaled in joy. India launched an arrow into the future, and it struck straight at the heart of history.

16 Apr 2025

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Indore Airport Takes Flight as India’s First Zero-Waste Airport!

Indore’s Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport has soared to new heights, becoming India’s first-ever zero-waste airport. This achievement cements Indore's reputation as the cleanest city in the country and sets a shining example for sustainable aviation. Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu inaugurated the 3,000-square-foot Material Recovery Facility (MRF) at the airport on Sunday.The Zero-Waste MissionThe airport’s zero-waste status is built on the 4R strategy: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Restore. The newly inaugurated MRF exemplifies this concept, designed to process approximately 750 kilograms of waste generated daily from both airport operations and flights.Key components of the waste management system include:Wet Waste Processing: Organic waste is converted into high-quality compost. This compost will be used for the airport’s landscaping, creating a greener environment and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.Dry Waste Recycling: The MRF segregates dry waste into 10 categories, maximizing resource recovery and minimizing landfill use.Previously, the airport depended on the Indore Municipal Corporation for waste disposal. The construction of the MRF has not only reduced this dependency but is expected to generate revenue from the sale of compost and recycled materials. Starting from the third year, this income will fund the salaries of green workers, ensuring the project’s financial sustainability.A Collaborative EffortThe Zero-Waste Airport Project is a collaborative initiative between IndiGo’s corporate social responsibility arm, IndiGoReach, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the AAS Foundation. The inauguration event witnessed prominent leaders, including Shri Shankar Lalwani, Member of Parliament for Indore, Shri Kailash Vijayvargiya, Minister for Madhya Pradesh Urban Development, and Shri Pushyamitra Bhargav, Mayor of Indore. A detailed tour of the MRF was conducted that highlighted the innovative waste segregation and recycling techniques in action.A critical aspect of the initiative is fostering a culture of sustainability among passengers and staff. Public awareness campaigns and rigorous waste segregation practices aim to instill responsible waste disposal habits. The project’s self-sustaining model sets it apart as an amazing example for other airports to follow.A Vision for the FutureThe union minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu also unveiled ambitious plans to expand the airport’s capacity from 40 lakh to 90 lakh passengers annually within the next three years. He emphasized the growing international connectivity of Indore Airport, with proposed routes to countries like Thailand and the United States. “For this, discussions with airlines are underway, and a longer airstrip is being planned in collaboration with the state government,” Naidu stated.Adding to the infrastructure upgrades, the minister inaugurated a new air traffic control tower, constructed at an investment of ₹55 crore, to bolster the airport’s operational efficiency.The Zero-Waste Airport Project at Indore airport significantly reduces its ecological footprint while delivering tangible benefits to the community. This transformative initiative exemplifies how a synergy between government bodies, private organizations, and local stakeholders can bring about meaningful change. This is also an inspiring precedent for airports across the nation.

26 Dec 2024

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This Teacher's Day: All of J&K is proud of Urfana Amin

On September 5, 2024, New Delhi will buzz with excitement as it hosts the National Teachers Award ceremony, recognizing 50 of India’s top educators. Among the distinguished recipients will be Urfana Amir, a dedicated teacher at BHSS, Soura, and one of only 50 educators chosen to receive the National Teachers Award 2024. Her innovative teaching methods have earned her a place among the elite few from Jammu and Kashmir to achieve this recognition. Urfana's selection for this honor has been hailed by both her colleagues and the school administration. Not only is Urfana Amin happy to have received the National Teacher Award, but her entire neighborhood and region are also proud of her. She will receive a silver medal, a cash prize of Rs 50,000, and a certificate of merit in exchange for this honor.The National Teacher Award: What is it? (Source: Google Images) This accolade recognizes Indian teachers' extraordinary dedication and exceptional contributions to the field of education. This year, fifty teachers will receive this honor in recognition of their outstanding dedication and unparalleled contributions to the field of education.Where is Urfana Amin currently teaching?(Source: Google Images) In 2002, Urfana Amin started her teaching career as a general line instructor. She has demonstrated unmatched excellence and dedication in her line of work. She is currently employed at the Government Boys Higher Secondary School in Soura as a master grade teacher. Urfana Amin has gone beyond traditional teaching methods. Her proficiency in Braille has been very helpful in improving the education of kids with special needs. Her substantial contribution to the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programs in Kashmir is proof of her dedication to educational innovation. She received praise from both parents and students for her remarkable achievement. This is truly a groundbreaking and outstanding accomplishment for her!

4 Sep 2024

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India's New Deep-Sea Guardian: INS Arighat Commissioned Into Indian Navy

In a significant boost to India's maritime security and strategic nuclear deterrence, the Indian Navy has commissioned its second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, INS Arighat, at Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. As an upgraded version of the INS Arihant, INS Arighat represents a critical step forward in enhancing India's naval capabilities. It marks a major milestone in the nation’s nuclear submarine program.A New Era of Strategic DeterrenceINS Arighat is poised to play a pivotal role in India's defense strategy. Armed with K-15 ballistic missiles, which have a range of 750 kilometers, the submarine significantly strengthens the Indian Navy's arsenal. The K-15 missiles, capable of being equipped with strategic nuclear warheads, provide India with a formidable second-strike capability enhancing its ability to respond to nuclear threats.Advanced Capabilities and FeaturesINS Arighat is not just another addition to the Indian Navy but a sophisticated and state-of-the-art asset. It is powered by an 83 MW pressurized light-water reactor, which allows it to remain submerged for extended periods, providing a significant tactical advantage over conventional submarines. This endurance ensures that the submarine can operate undetected for months.Measuring 112 meters in length and displacing 6,000 tonnes, INS Arighat is equipped with four missile launch tubes. One of the standout features of INS Arighat is its advanced stealth technology. The submarine is equipped with state-of-the-art sonar systems, quiet propulsion mechanisms, and cutting-edge stealth features that allow it to operate undetected beneath the ocean’s surface. This stealth capability is crucial for modern naval operations, enabling the submarine to carry out missions with precision and secrecy. The ability to remain invisible to enemy detection systems not only increases its survivability but also ensures that it can deliver a swift and decisive response to any threat.(Source: Google Images)INS Arighat is the second submarine of the Arihant-class, following its predecessor INS Arihant, which was commissioned in 2016. Both submarines are part of India's ambitious plan to build a fleet of four SSBNs (Ship, Submersible, Ballistic, Nuclear), with two more, currently known as S4 and S4*, still under construction. This fleet is central to India’s strategy of maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent and ensuring the security of its maritime interests.The submarine's name, "Arighat," is derived from an ancient Sanskrit term meaning ‘destroyer of enemies,’ symbolizing its purpose and India’s resolve to protect its sovereignty and security.According to reports, INS Arighat will operate under the Strategic Forces Command, a specialized branch responsible for managing India's strategic nuclear arsenal. The successful induction of INS Arighat into the Indian Navy marks a new chapter in India’s maritime history, showcasing the nation’s technological prowess and commitment to safeguarding its interests. As India looks to the future, the continued development and deployment of advanced submarines like INS Arighat will be crucial in maintaining a strong and secure maritime presence.

29 Aug 2024

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Homebound Heroes: Indian Cricket Team Returns from Hurricane-Hit Barbados

Following the T20 World Cup, Indian media were left stuck in Barbados until BCCI Secretary Jay Shah arrived to save them. Barbados has been under high alert since Sunday, June 30, due to the threat posed by Hurricane Beryl, one day after India's victory in the Twenty20 World Cup. After an amazing T20WC campaign, the Indian cricket team extended their stay in Barbados, leaving the nation's media professionals stranded. To assist the Indian media, Shah has stepped forward and offered for them to go on the specially chartered flight from Barbados to Delhi with the Indian delegation. On Wednesday, a special Air India flight touched down at Barbados Airport to return the World Cup winners in T20 cricket home. On Thursday, the team led by Rohit Sharma arrived in New Delhi. The Indian media, who had traveled to the Caribbean to cover the highly anticipated ICC competition, was also on the charter flight. Earlier on Wednesday night, Vice-President of the BCCI Rajeev Shukla gave an update on India's trip from Barbados to Delhi. (Source: Google Images) Shukla mentioned that the Indian team was flying back from Barbados to Delhi . He stated that they had been stranded there for three days due to a severe hurricane. Shukla also stated that BCCI had arranged for the players' safe flight back home, with BCCI Secretary Jay Shah personally overseeing the situation. The original plan called for the Indian contingent to travel from Barbados to the USA and then via the UAE to India. However, due to a two-day delay caused by the hurricane, the BCCI decided to organize a charter flight to guarantee that every member of the team and their families arrived home together. The Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) released a video of the World Cup Trophy that India won against South Africa just before they left. BCCI added the message "It's coming home" with the video. On Thursday morning, Rohit Sharma and company are anticipated to arrive in Delhi. On their return journey to India, several Indian players, including captain Rohit, shared pictures of themselves with the World Cup trophy to tribute to their stunning victory! Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the victorious Indian cricket team at his residence in New Delhi on Thursday, posing with the trophy and interacting with the squad. Later in the evening, the team is scheduled to participate in a victory parade in Mumbai.

4 Jul 2024

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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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From India to the World: The World's Top Vegan Delicacies on Taste Atlas's List

Misal Pav, a famous Maharashtrian vegan dish, has been named one of the world's best-rated vegan dishes by Taste Atlas, a food guide platform. The dish has secured the top spot among 7 Indian dishes that have ranked in the Top 50 list. While international cuisines, such as guacamole, hummus, and spaghetti aglio e olio, dominated the top 10, Misal Pav took the top spot from India and was ranked number 11 on the list of the Best Traditional Vegan Dishes in the World. Misal Pav is a curry-like dish made with moth beans, onions, chivda, and other ingredients, served with bread known as pav. It is a common Indian street food, office canteen food and is made in many households for breakfast, snack or just as a main course. The World's Best Traditional Vegan Dishes list by Taste Atlas has been dominated by foreign delicacies, with Misal Pav taking the 11th position. Rajma and Aloo Gobi, two other Indian delicacies, secured the 20th and 22nd positions, respectively. Masala Vada, a well-known treat from Tamil Nadu, ranked at number 27, while Bhelpuri and Rajma Chawal ranked 37th and 41st, respectively. Misal Pav comes in various forms like Kolhapuri Misal, Puneri Misal, Khandeshi misal, Nashik misal, and Ahmednagar misal. Moreover, the website has also listed named of some famous restaurants where people can enjoy this delicacy. The dish's popularity is not new as it was previously named the world's tastiest vegetarian dish in 2015 by the Foodie Hub Awards in London. Misal Pav's recognition as one of the world's best-rated vegan dishes has elevated its status and put it on the global food map. Misal Pav's inclusion in the top-rated vegan dishes will undoubtedly boost its popularity globally, and more people will be eager to try this delicious and healthy dish.

26 Apr 2023

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Small Steps, Big Impact: How a Trans Tea Stall is Empowering Communities

The Indian Railways has taken a remarkable step towards social progress and inclusivity by setting up a ‘trans tea stall’ at the Guwahati railway platform. The North East Frontier Railway and the All Assam Transgender Association are the brainchild behind the initiative. The bright pink-colored tea stall has been heavily decorated and is managed by members of the transgender community who sells tea, cold drinks, fruit juice and biscuits. Billionaire Anand Mahindra lauded this initiative and praised Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for being progressive. In his tweet, he mentioned that this small initiative is as transformational as the other progressive projects, and most importantly, it excludes no one. Twitter users also flooded the comment section to gush about the inclusive initiative. It is heartening to see that initiatives like these are becoming more common in recent years. Companies are now also suggested to include more trans people in their talent hunt and D&I programmes. One Twitter user wrote that all companies should have started some percentage of hiring them on a compulsory basis as well. Assam Transgender Welfare Board Associate Vice Chairman Swati Bidhan Baruah stated her hope that more trans and gender non-conforming people would be empowered and able to find productive employment under various government programs. In order to empower members of the trans and queer communities, NF Railways aims to open additional tea shops at other train stations in the region. This initiative showcases the progressive nature of India and the importance of inclusivity. Small steps like these can have a significant impact in promoting social progress and inclusion in society.

17 Mar 2023

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The Science Teacher Who Converts Complex Lessons into Catchy Movie Songs!

Mythili, a science teacher in a government school in Pudukkottai district in Tamil Nadu, is making waves with her innovative teaching methods. With her passion for science and music, she transforms complex scientific theories into catchy movie songs, turning her classroom into a lively music class. Her aim is to make her students ambitious and world-renowned scientists, and she goes the extra mile to ignite their interest in science. She uses various strategies, including ARloopa, FXguru, and other science-related materials as teaching aids. With her innovative teaching ideas, Mythili has equipped her students to attend various competitions and win awards. Mythili's commitment to her students came about after she realized that many of them struggled academically as a result of their parents' neglect. Instilling fundamental education with discipline, she opted for practical teaching techniques above book reading. Her students started cooperating with her after two years of strenuous effort. Her efforts have paid off, and she has received numerous awards, including the Inspire Awards, Innovative Teacher Award, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Award, Innovative Woman Achiever Award, and Best Exhibitor Award. Mythili's dedication has inspired her students, many of whom have excelled in science competitions and received scholarships. She has even coached them to participate in the Guinness World Record event, conducted by the India International Science Festival. Her students testify to the impact she has had on their lives, with many crediting her for their interest in science and the prizes they have won. With her innovative teaching methods and dedication to her students, Mythili is sowing the seeds for a future generation of scientists.

8 Mar 2023

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A Groundbreaking Discovery in the Western Ghats: A Clue To Plant Species Survival

Researchers at the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) in Pune have made a significant discovery of a rare low-altitude basalt plateau in the Western Ghats that will tremendously help to understand how plant species can survive climate change. Dr Mandar Datar, lead scientist of the study, and his team found 76 species of plants belonging to 24 different families on the plateau. This finding supports the idea that high-temperature conditions of climate change can be survived by species, specifically, plants, found in these open, mostly arid habitats. The four-month monsoon season in the Western Ghats is the only favorable time for plants to grow. Following the monsoons, there is acute water scarcity which the plants can withstand by either seeding right before the spell is through or by storing food underground in the form of bulbs. With summertime soil temperatures reaching up to 60 degrees Celsius, this is a very hostile environment. The finding of the low-altitude plateau in the Western Ghats is an important breakthrough in understanding the resilience of plant species which can help in formulating methods to ensure their survival. This discovery has provided effective and much-needed insight into how plant species can survive in increasingly hostile climate conditions, and can be applied to other areas around the world.

1 Feb 2023

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First Electric Racing Car From IIT Madras Rolled Out by Students’ ‘Raftar Formula Racing’ Team

The first electric formula racing car from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) was unveiled on Monday. Built by Team Raftar students, the formula car “RF23” is the outcome of a year-long process of design, manufacture, and testing. Team Raftar - one of the competition teams of the Centre For Innovation (CFI) at IIT Madras - is made up of 45 students from ten departments representing various disciplines. The institute has been engaged in research about combustion engines for a long time. RF23 is an endeavor in the shift away from combustion engines to electric vehicles. Speaking to newspersons, IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti said that this project will help to develop the next level of electric vehicle technology. Due to the higher power produced by an electric motor, the team anticipates improvements in speed and lap times on RF23 compared to the older Internal Combustion Engine model. Kamakoti revealed that the next project would be on autonomous (driverless) cars and work on that project will start next year. Like RF23, technologies in the autonomous race car will be put to various stress tests, he said. IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti while unveiling the car said that he is hopeful that the car will be number one in various competitions. The team is eager to represent India on an international stage, establishing industry-standard engineering practices and strengthening engineering students' practical technical knowledge.

29 Nov 2022

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An Organization Takes Dedicated Efforts to Start India’s First Sign Language College

In India, the hearing impaired or children with learning disabilities usually go to special schools and after the basic studies, they are encouraged to choose and learn vocational skills. Many have to forego their dreams of higher studies due to the absence of colleges that impart higher education in sign language. Two friends Aman Sharma and Deepesh Nair who were volunteering in a few schools in Mumbai noticed the drastic shortcomings in the provisions to teach deaf children. They couldn’t come to terms with the fact that deaf children simply give up their dream of higher studies and take up traditional vocational subjects like bookbinding, saree bordering, laddu making etc. as there are no colleges for the hearing impaired. TEACH – An Organisation For The Hearing Impaired Sharma and Nair quit their jobs in multinational companies and started TEACH -- Training and Education Centre for Hearing Impaired. According to Nair, most of the education in Indian schools is imparted orally, so the deaf children suffer and feel left out. TEACH works with the students through role modelling and exposures which boosts their thought process building. Children are exposed to healthy competition and learning processes that make them conducive to higher education. Learning Skills For learning, it is imperative that students should know a language. Without knowing a language one cannot learn, so it becomes necessary to introduce sign language for the hearing impaired. TEACH has introduced a special technique to overcome this problem. It has a special extensive programme designed for schools where importance is given to learning the English language. TEACH trains students for three years after they finish class 10. English and Maths are taken up in the first year of training. After that, course work for classes 11 and 12 are taken up. According to Nair, educational institutions could be made more inclusive by conducting classes separately but in the premises of the college, training regular teachers with sign language and making the educational content less oral and more visual.

22 Nov 2019

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Know How This Path-Breaking Technology Is Helping to Improve the Health of Tea Farmers in Assam

Tea farming involves spraying pesticides and fertilizers which farmers do manually putting their health and lives to risk. Many workers are known to have lost their lives to tuberculosis and respiratory diseases as they are not provided with protective gear like masks. BRS Ventures that has acquired the world’s first tea company ‘Assam Company India Limited’ has decided to address this issue with the help of Artificial Intelligence. Robotic Drones At a workshop conducted in Assam’s Dibrugarh district, B R Shetty, Founder of BRS Ventures said that the company will introduce two robotic drones that will spray fertilizers and pesticides on the plants from a height of 6-8 feet. This will help reduce wastage of fertilizers and improve the quality of tea through the technique of precision spraying. The two drones are designed to perform varied functions. While one set will analyze the health of plants, soil conditions and other natural factors, the other will spray fertilizers and target pests. Better Health of Tea Farmers Tea farmers suffer due to the manual spraying of fertilizers and pesticides as particles are dispersed in the air causing respiratory diseases and TB which can be fatal. Farmers are to be provided with masks, gloves and goggles while spraying, but few employers adhere to such rules. The drones will make their work easier, but that doesn’t mean that they will lose their jobs. Shetty has assured that the use of technology will not lead to retrenchment and they will be engaged in different areas.

5 Nov 2019

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Soon, Your Favourite Chai to Be Served in Kulhads

How about drinking tea in kulhads at airports and malls? It certainly is eco-friendly and the experience of drinking tea from a kulhad is always joyful and wholesome. The Union Transport and MSME Minister Nitin Gadkari has written to Railway Minister Piyush Goyal about initiating the use of kulhads at major railway stations, airports and other public places. Tea And Beverages In Kulhads Currently, tea is being served in eco-friendly terracotta-made 'kulhads', glasses and plates in two railway stations - Varanasi and Rae Bareli. The government plans to make kulhads mandatory at100 railway stations, as well as airports and state transport undertakings having tea stalls at bus depots. It will also encourage malls to start kulhad tea stalls. Benefits Of Kulhads Apart from the benefits to the environment by replacing plastic and paper, kulhads will also generate employment and provide a huge market for local potters. Gadkari has also ensured that the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) will supply equipment for large-scale production of kulhads according to the increase in demand. The government has been distributing electric wheels to potters under the Kumhar Sashaktikaran Yojana to increase their productivity. The use of kulhads was first initiated in 2004 by railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav who had made it clear that hot beverages should be served only in 'kulhads'. This move will give people a taste of eco-friendly cups and a thrust to the pottery industry.

26 Aug 2019

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Power of Technology: Alexa Got Introduced as a School Teacher in Waruda

The students of a municipal school in Waruda, Maharashtra got their third teacher who is not a regular person but, Amazon’s, Alexa. The school has a number of 48 students who were only taught by Amol Bhuyar and headmistress Sushma Kapse. And with the addition of the new staff member, the teaching sessions are certainly going to be exhilarating for the children. The virtual assistant has been given a face and is built into a robot which looks like a woman. Since the school’s medium of language is Marathi, the children are learning English along with general knowledge, math, poem and everything associated with their syllabus from Alexa. It also plays Bollywood music as it’s a part of extracurricular activities. The speed of the internet is definitely a matter of concern in villages but, the authorities of the school have not let that affect their initiative. Mr. Bhuyar even stated that now they allow their students to continue with the classes outside their classrooms as the signal gets interrupted indoors. Mr. Bhuyar spoke about the day he thought of using technology for his students as he told The Hindu: “It was during a ‘go digital drive’ by the Amravati municipality in its schools that I had this brainwave of trying to push boundaries using technology.” The students ask 15 questions to Alexa every day which has made them more confident. And now they don’t hesitate while asking the questions, their urge of knowing things have doubled. What’s more satisfying than witnessing children enjoying education? Hats off to Amol Bhuyar and Sushma Kapse for coming up with such a commendable initiative. Image Courtesy: Digital Trends

6 Apr 2019

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Plant Pollution Eating Trees For Cleaner Environment

Researchers at the Forest College and Research Institute at Mettupalayam have found a solution for smog and pollution in cities. Their research shows that for every pollutant, there are specific trees that could be planted. They opine that trees not only take in carbon dioxide but also absorb pollutants. According to the researchers, some pollution absorbing trees are Gulmohar, Banyan, Fig, Peepal, Jamun and Tamarind. A. Balasubramanian, professor and head of the Silviculture department said that they have prepared a detailed proposal that includes a list of trees that could be planted for specific pollutants present at various locations in the city. They plan to tie up with the city corporation and plant the saplings under the smart city project.

16 Jan 2018

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GI Tag For Sturdy Teak, First For Forest Produce

Nilambur teak has been granted the Geographical Identification (GI) status by the GI registry, Chennai. The teak is world famous for its superior timber quality and appearance. Nilambur is a place near the Nilgiri hills in the Malappuram district of Kerala. Agriculture minister V S Sunilkumar said that the IPR cell of Kerala Agriculture University (KAU) had received a communication from the GI registry granting GI status on this exclusive teak variety. C R Elsy of the IPR cell (KAU) said, "It is the first time that a forest produce was added to the list of products with GI tag, and agencies like the food and agriculture organization (FAO) have appreciated this pioneering effort." KAU IPR Cell was assisted by the College of Forestry, KFRI, Department of Forests and NGOs like Nilambur Teak Heritage Society in its efforts to obtain GI status for Nilambur teak. Abdulllakutty of Nilambur Teak Heritage Society said that they were very glad to hear the news as GI tag will help to conserve Nilambur teak. About 10,000 workers and traders are dependent on teak for their livelihood, and the GI tag will help them ear more as it will as it will block the sale of fake products. Nilambur teak is known for its large size, superior colour and durability. The durability of Nilambur teak is attributed to the synergistic effect of its components and is also known for its resistance to fungal decay as well as for hydrophobicity, anti--oxidant properties and oily nature.

2 Jan 2018

Good News

Assam Tea Gets A New Colour

Assam’s Raakhi Saikia has successfully developed one of the rarest variety of tea- yellow tea. It is one of the rarest brews in China’s list of tea variety and is also called royal tea. Yellow tea is highly prized due to the tremendous skill involved in its production. The production of yellow tea which takes place in China's mountainous Hunan, Zhejiang and Sichuan provinces is gradually dwindling due to the time - consuming process and skill required to make it. Now, Raakhi Saikia, a woman entrepreneur from Assam has created this rare variety of yellow tea. Rakhi went through different Chinese literature on the tea recipe and started experimenting to make yellow tea. She tasted success when she made some changes in technique to suit the local condition in the state. She was assisted in her endeavour by Pradip Baruah, senior scientist of Tocklai Tea Research Institute in Jorhat who provided her with technical guidance. Rakhi said that her experiment met with success when it yielded the light yellow colour, fruity flavor with an aroma of night jasmine and tinge of the sweet taste of yellow tea. These are the essential characteristics of yellow tea. She added that though she met with some problems initially, she overcame them through constant monitoring and meticulous handling of all parameters needed to make yellow tea.

22 Nov 2017

Good News

Mary Kom’s inspirational talk inspires Indian women’s hockey team

The Indian women’s hockey team is all geared up for the FIH Hockey World League Semi Final to be held in Johannesburg from July 8 to 23 and ahead of their departure, they were treated to a surprise session with five-time world champion and London Olympic bronze medallist Mary Kom. The key message in Mary Kom’s talk was to build mental strength and battle against all odds. She told her own story of how she overcame all hardships and opposition to make an illustrious career. She stressed the importance of mental preparation. Indian women's hockey team chief coach Marije Sjoerd was very satisfied and said that it was an inspiring session. He said that the girls have done everything in their capacity to prepare themselves for the event. He liked the way Mary interacted with the girls and motivated them with her life story. When he had taken charge, he felt that the girls lacked self belief, but now he was glad that the girls have become very confident with better results. They have also improved their physical fitness so that they could play harder. The coach said that their aim is to qualify for the World Cup which will be held in London in 2018.

30 Jun 2017

Good News

Not only students, but teachers too stress during examination

With examination season around the corner, no doubt students are usually stressed with the studies and results but even teachers and professors in the colleges are equally stressed when it comes to examination. With paper settings, evaluation, supervising the examination classrooms, the teachers' work is almost doubled up during this season. To de-stress the teachers and professors from this pressure of examination many colleges in the city have organized some stress-bursting sessions that helps them to keep cool during the busy schedule. Take the case of Guru Nanak College. As per the report published in The Times of India, the college has organized special laughter sessions for teachers. The teaching faculty at this college takes a short break from the constant examination work and attends laughter yoga session. It helps teacher to get rid of the stress. Earlier the college has also organized special session on stress management, time management, and how to achieve goals. Every college has an Internal Quality Assurance Cell which sure that teacher are relieved and keep their mind cool during stress period. While in KC College, Mumbai the colleges organizes special yoga session for teachers as a part of the faculty development program. Similarly, many colleges have recreational activities inside their campus like gym, swimming pool, indoor and outdoor games that keep the teachers also fresh. Teachers can surely take some time out and rejuvenate themselves to face the pressure period of examinations.

10 Apr 2017

Good News

NMMC to rope in athletes

If all goes well than Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) will have a team of the professional sports person who will represent them at the national level. As a pilot project, NMMC is the first civic authority to rope in the athletes as their team. Kabaddi, Kho Kho and Shooting Ball are the three games shortlisted by NMMC and will sign up the athletes playing these sports. NMMC is planning to rope in 40 players for this pilot project. While there will be 15 players in each team of Kho Kho and Kabaddi there will be 10 players for shooting ball. Ten players each for Kho Kho and Kabaddi and six from shooting ball will be athletes who have already played state, national or university level competitions. Other slots will be filled by the freshers or the district level players. What is good about this project is that the players will be paid Rs 15,000 per month from NMMC apart from the budget for their kits and training. NMMC has kept an annual budget of Rs 1.80crore for this project which is scheduled to be implemented from July. While this scheme is only for the male athletes as of now, the NMMC has also booked a ground in Airoli for their regular practice session. This is surely a good move that will encourage youngsters to take up sports professionally. Interested candidates can apply online at www.nmmc.gov.in till April 25. Players will sign contracts for 11 months, which would be extended on merit.

31 Mar 2017

Good News

Star Citizens

No Facilities, No Limits: The Inspiring Story of a UP Teacher Whose Students Are Now Invited to Perform Worldwide

In the quiet district of Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh, where opportunities often feel distant and resources are limited, a remarkable story is unfolding, one that proves greatness does not always begin with privilege. It begins with belief. At a modest government school, far from the spotlight of big cities, PT teacher Ramesh Kumar has become the force behind a silent revolution. With no advanced facilities, no expensive training gear, and no shortcuts, he has built something extraordinary: a group of young students whose performances are now earning recognition not just across India but even from the United States. This is not just a story about sports or drills. It is a story about transformation and the powerful impact of one dedicated teacher.A Teacher Who Chose to Stay BackEvery school day ends with the ringing of a bell. Children pack their bags and head home. But for Ramesh Kumar, that bell is not an end; it is a beginning. While others leave, he stays back on the dusty school ground, gathering students who are willing to learn, to sweat, and to dream. With patience and discipline, he trains them in parade drills, lezim, and synchronized formations—activities that demand precision, rhythm, and teamwork. There are no modern facilities. No polished tracks or professional equipment. Just open space, determination, and a teacher who refuses to give up on his students. Day after day, he repeats the same process: correcting posture, guiding movements and encouraging effort. Slowly, what began as simple practice turns into excellence.Building Confidence Beyond ClassroomsFor many of these children, coming from rural backgrounds, confidence does not come easily. Stage fear, hesitation, and self-doubt are common. But Ramesh Kumar understood something important—before teaching skills, he had to build belief. Through disciplined training and consistent encouragement, he transformed shy students into confident performers. Every synchronized step, every perfectly timed movement became more than just a drill—it became a step toward self-belief. The ground they trained on was no longer just a field. It became a stage where young minds discovered their strength.From Neglect to National RecognitionThere was a time when this school struggled for attention. Like many government schools in rural India, it faced neglect and low expectations. But one man’s vision began to change that narrative. As the students improved, their performances started attracting attention at local events. Soon, they were invited to participate in district and state-level competitions. Their discipline, coordination, and energy set them apart. What followed was nothing short of remarkable. The same school that once went unnoticed began producing national-level champions. The students performed at major national events, proudly representing not just their school but their entire region. Their journey became a symbol of what is possible when dedication meets opportunity.When the World Starts WatchingThe most inspiring moment came when their talent crossed borders. Their performances were so impressive that they began receiving invitations from international platforms, including opportunities from the United States. For children who had rarely stepped beyond their village, the idea of performing on a global stage felt like a dream. Yet, it was becoming reality. This recognition was not just about skill; it was about the story behind it. A story of hard work without resources, of discipline without luxury, and of dreams built from the ground up.The Power of One TeacherAt the heart of this journey is Ramesh Kumar—a teacher who saw potential where others saw limitations. His work goes beyond physical training. He is shaping character, discipline, and a sense of purpose. He teaches his students to stand tall, to move with confidence, and to believe in themselves. In a world where many seek quick success, his approach is rooted in patience and consistency. His impact extends beyond the playground. He is changing mindsets—of students, parents, and the community. He is showing that education is not just about books but about building strong individuals.A Story That Inspires a NationIn a country as vast and diverse as India, stories like this often remain hidden. But they carry immense power. They remind us that talent exists everywhere waiting for the right guidance to shine. This journey from a neglected school in Hardoi to national and international recognition is not just inspiring; it is a call to action. It highlights the importance of supporting teachers, investing in grassroots talent, and believing in the potential of every child. Ramesh Kumar’s journey proves a simple yet powerful truth: one dedicated teacher can change lives, uplift a community, and shape the future of an entire generation. From a small village in Uttar Pradesh, a big lesson emerges: greatness does not need perfect conditions. It needs passion, persistence, and someone who refuses to give up.

19 Apr 2026

Star Citizens

Retirement Day? She Chose a Marathon, Not a Farewell

For most people, retirement signals rest, relaxation, and a slower pace of life. But for Shyni Benny, it meant the exact opposite. The moment she stepped down as a Malayalam teacher at St Teresa's High School in Ernakulam, she didn’t pause; she ran. Just hours after her farewell, she laced up her running shoes and covered 11 kilometres from her school to her home in Nettoor. It wasn’t just a run; it was a powerful statement. While others mark retirement with speeches and celebrations, Shyni marked hers with determination and a renewed commitment to her passion.A Journey Fueled by PassionRunning was not always at the center of Shyni’s life. It became her passion over the last eight years, transforming her routine and redefining her identity beyond the classroom. As a member of the Souls of Cochin, she found not just fitness but a community that shared her enthusiasm for long-distance running. Her retirement run was not a solitary effort. Her husband Benny, a captain in the Merchant Navy, along with 24 fellow runners from the group, joined her. The event was flagged off by V K Minimol, turning a personal milestone into a community celebration. By the time she reached home in the evening, it was clear this was not an ending but a beginning.Discipline Beyond the ClassroomEven during her years as a teacher, Shyni balanced her professional responsibilities with a disciplined fitness routine. Her commitment to running reflects the same dedication she showed in her teaching career. She trains rigorously, visiting the gym three days a week and running six kilometres on the remaining days. This consistency highlights an important truth: passion alone is not enough; it must be supported by discipline and effort. Now, with more time on her hands, she looks forward to pushing her limits even further.Chasing the Next Finish LineFor Shyni Benny, the 11-kilometre retirement run is just a stepping stone. Her next goal is ambitious yet inspiring—to complete a full 42-kilometre marathon. This goal represents more than just physical endurance. It symbolizes her belief that age and life stages should never define one’s limits. Instead of slowing down, she is accelerating toward a new challenge, proving that dreams don’t retire when we do.Behind every strong individual is a support system that keeps them going. Shyni’s journey is no different. Her husband Benny has been a constant source of encouragement, running alongside her and celebrating her milestones. Her children, Nevin, an Air India pilot, and Nehal, a student at Tevara SH College, have also stood by her, offering unwavering support. Their belief in her journey reflects the importance of family in shaping and sustaining one’s passions. In many ways, her story is not just about personal achievement but also about the collective strength of a family that cheers each other on.A Lesson Beyond BooksAs a teacher, Shyni spent years shaping young minds, teaching lessons from textbooks and life. But her retirement run may be one of her most powerful lessons yet. Through her actions, she teaches that learning never stops, growth never ends, and passion should never be confined by age. Her story inspires not just her former students but anyone who believes it’s too late to start something new. She shows that life’s second innings can be just as exciting if not more than the first. In a society where retirement is often associated with slowing down, Shyni Benny is redefining the narrative. She represents a growing number of individuals who see retirement as an opportunity to rediscover themselves and pursue long-held passions. Her story challenges traditional ideas and encourages others to think differently about their own futures. Instead of asking, “What will I do after retirement?” she answers with action: “I will do more of what I love.”

3 Apr 2026

Star Citizens

India’s Proud Moment: Rouble Nagi Wins the ‘Nobel of Teaching’ for Educating the Forgotten

Teaching is the quiet profession behind every loud success. Doctors, engineers, artists, scientists, and leaders—none exist without a teacher standing somewhere in the background, shaping minds with patience and belief. It is often called the most respected job in the world, not because of awards or applause, but because it plants seeds that grow long after the lesson ends. The world paused to honour that truth. At the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Indian educator and social reformer Rouble Nagi was awarded the prestigious $1 million Global Teacher Prize 2026, often described as the “Nobel of Teaching.” Presented by Dubai’s Crown Prince Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the award recognised a woman who turned walls into classrooms and forgotten children into learners.A Historic Moment for India on a Global StageMumbai-based Rouble Nagi became India’s latest global education icon as she received the GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize, joining an elite list of educators whose work has transformed lives against overwhelming odds. The Global Teacher Prize celebrates teachers who make an extraordinary impact on their communities, often with limited resources but unlimited compassion. Her win was widely celebrated across India, especially in Jammu and Kashmir, her home region, where many hailed her as a “daughter of the soil” who carried local values of resilience and service onto the world stage. Praise also poured in from past Global Teacher Prize winner Ranjitsinh Disale, who acknowledged her work as a powerful reminder of what education can achieve when it reaches the last child.Image Source : Kashmir ImagesFrom Artist to Educator, From Walls to WisdomRouble Nagi’s story is unlike that of conventional educators. An internationally acclaimed artist with over 800 murals and more than 150 exhibitions worldwide, she chose not to keep her art confined to galleries. Instead, she carried it into narrow lanes, slums, and villages—places where classrooms were missing, but curiosity was alive. Through her Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, she pioneered the concept of “Living Walls of Learning.” Instead of blackboards and textbooks, she painted alphabets, numbers, scientific concepts, historical figures, and moral lessons directly onto walls. These murals transformed dull, broken structures into vibrant learning spaces where children could read, count, and imagine. Over two decades, this idea grew into a nationwide movement. Image Source : The Indian Express 800 Learning Centres, One Million ChildrenWhat began as an artistic experiment evolved into one of India’s most innovative education models. Rouble Nagi has helped establish more than 800 learning centres across slums and rural areas, reaching over one million children many of whom had never stepped inside a school. These centres support both out-of-school children and those already enrolled in government schools but struggling with foundational learning. The aim is simple yet powerful make education visual, accessible, and joyful. Literacy, mathematics, science, and history become easier when learning feels familiar and close to home. Today, the foundation operates in over 163 slums and villages across India, delivering education through low-cost, sustainable models that communities themselves can maintain. Education, for Rouble Nagi, was never just about books. It was about dignity. Through the Misaal Mumbai initiative, she led the repair and painting of more than 1,50,000 homes, turning neglected settlements into colourful, safe, and hopeful neighbourhoods.Why the World Chose Rouble NagiThe Global Teacher Prize jury recognised Rouble Nagi not only for numbers but also for impact. More than 800 learning centres. More than 800 educational murals. More than a million lives touched. But beyond statistics lies a deeper truth: she reached children the system had forgotten. Her work proved that education does not always need buildings, budgets, or bureaucracy. Sometimes, it just needs a wall, a brush, and belief. With the $1 million prize money, Rouble Nagi plans to expand her learning centres, train more teachers, and establish a free Skilling Institute. The goal is to provide vocational training to young people so they can become self-reliant and secure dignified employment. In a country where millions of youth struggle to transition from education to jobs, this next step bridges a crucial gap. It ensures that learning does not end at literacy but leads to livelihood.Standing Among Global ChangemakersThe Global Teacher Prize has previously honoured a Kenyan teacher who donated most of his earnings to the poor, a Palestinian educator teaching non-violence, and a Canadian teacher working with Inuit students in remote Arctic villages. In 2025, Saudi educator Mansour Al-Mansour won for his work with the poor in the UAE. In 2026, Rouble Nagi’s name joined this list not as just an Indian winner, but as a global symbol of what teaching can be when it reaches beyond classrooms. Rouble Nagi’s story reminds us that teaching is not limited by chalk or classrooms. It is an act of faith in humanity. By turning walls into teachers and art into education, she has shown the world that the most respectful job on Earth still has the power to quietly change everything. And sometimes, the strongest lessons are painted, not spoken.

6 Feb 2026

Star Citizens

Art, Philosophy, and Gratitude : Sudarsan Pattnaik Honors Dr. Radhakrishnan on Teachers’ Day

Every year on September 5, India celebrates Teachers’ Day in memory of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the country’s second President and one of its most respected philosophers. This year, the coastal city of Puri in Odisha witnessed a unique tribute when Padma Shri award-winning sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik sculpted a magnificent sand art of Dr. Radhakrishnan. The artwork not only celebrated Radhakrishnan’s birth anniversary but also highlighted the nation’s respect for teachers and educators, reminding everyone of their role in shaping India’s future.The Significance of Teachers’ DayTeachers’ Day in India carries deep meaning. Dr. Radhakrishnan, born on September 5, 1888, in Andhra Pradesh, was a brilliant scholar, teacher, and philosopher. When his students once wished to celebrate his birthday, he suggested that the day should instead be observed as Teachers’ Day to honor all teachers. This gesture reflected his humility and deep belief that teaching is the noblest profession. Since then, every year, India celebrates September 5 by paying respect to teachers, mentors, and guides who dedicate their lives to nurturing young minds.Sudarsan Pattnaik: The Artist with a MissionFor Sudarsan Pattnaik, sand is more than just an art medium; it is a canvas of social messages, awareness, and heartfelt tributes. Born in 1977 in Puri, Odisha, he rose from humble beginnings to become India’s most recognized sand artist, representing the country at numerous international competitions and bringing home global honors. Over the years, he has earned prestigious accolades such as the Padma Shri in 2014, the People’s Choice Award at the Sand Sculpting World Cup in Atlantic City (2014), the Italian Sand Art Award in Lecce (2019), and the Fred Darrington Sand Master Award in London (2025). He also broke the Guinness World Record in 2017 by creating the world’s largest sandcastle on Puri Beach—a feat that, even though later surpassed, cemented his place on the world stage and gave international recognition to India’s sand art tradition.The Sculpture at Puri BeachOn Teachers’ Day 2025, Pattnaik created a sand sculpture of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s face, capturing the calm and wise personality of the philosopher-president. The sculpture stood as a reminder of his lifelong dedication to knowledge, education, and the importance of guiding future generations. Speaking about his creation, Pattnaik said: “On the occasion of Teachers’ Day, homage has been paid to former President Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan through this sculpture. On this day, I bow to every teacher who guides and inspires us.” The sculpture quickly attracted hundreds of visitors and admirers on Puri Beach. Many paused not only to take pictures but also to reflect on the meaning of Teachers’ Day, making the tribute a blend of art, education, and emotion.The Life and Legacy of Dr. Sarvepalli RadhakrishnanDr. Radhakrishnan’s life itself was proof of the power of education. Coming from modest beginnings in a small town in Andhra Pradesh, he pursued his education at Christian College, Madras, and went on to teach at leading universities like the University of Mysore and the University of Calcutta. His philosophical writings earned him global respect, and he was later appointed the Spalding Professor of Eastern Religions and Ethics at Oxford University. His works bridged Indian philosophy with Western audiences, spreading India’s intellectual heritage around the world. He served as Vice-President of India (1952–1962) and later as the President of India (1962–1967). Despite holding such high offices, he always considered himself a teacher first.Why This Tribute MattersTeachers’ Day is not only about remembering one great scholar; it is about recognizing every teacher who touches lives. Pattnaik’s sand art beautifully conveyed this message. By sculpting Radhakrishnan’s image, he reminded people that education is the foundation of society, and teachers are its strongest pillars. The visitors who stood before the sand sculpture felt more than admiration for Pattnaik’s craft. They felt gratitude for their schoolteachers, mentors, and guides who helped them dream bigger.The Power of Sand Art in Spreading MessagesSudarsan Pattnaik has always used sand art as a medium to spread awareness and positivity. From world peace messages to climate change awareness, his creations often highlight pressing issues and pay tribute to great personalities. In the fast-paced digital age, his temporary yet impactful sand sculptures serve as a reminder that beauty and meaning can be created even in the simplest natural medium: sand. On the shores of Puri, with waves crashing nearby, Pattnaik’s sand art stood tall, yet eternal in its message.

5 Sep 2025

Star Citizens

How Retired Teacher K. Narayana Naik Transformed Thousands of Lives

Most people, after retirement, choose to rest, spend time with their families, or live a life of leisure. But K. Narayana Naik, a retired school teacher in his 80s from Karpe village in Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada, has chosen a path of relentless service. Instead of slowing down, he has spent the past 21 years riding his old Honda Dream bike across schools, colleges, and government offices to ensure that poor students receive access to higher education through scholarships. A Mission Fueled by StrugglesNaik’s mission is deeply personal. Coming from a poor agricultural family, he knew the struggles of pursuing education without resources. His father once wanted him to drop out after Class 5 because the family could not afford his studies. But Naik refused to give up. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideology, he staged a hunger strike at home until his father relented and sent him back to school. That childhood act of courage and determination shaped his lifelong belief: education is worth fighting for.A Legacy of ScholarshipsAfter serving for 38 years as a government high school teacher, Naik retired in 2001, but retirement was only the beginning of his true mission. Since then, he has helped lakhs of poor students gain access to higher education, distributed scholarships worth over ₹25 crore from various government and private bodies, and personally visited more than 200 schools in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi in just one year to spread awareness. His daily routine speaks volumes: he leaves home at 8 am, spends the entire day visiting schools, colleges, and student homes, and returns only after 6 pm. Remarkably, most of his ₹40,000 monthly pension is spent on travel expenses, leaving little for himself but making a world of difference for countless students. Naik not only informs students about these opportunities but also guides them step-by-step through the application process and even follows up with authorities until the applications are approved.Naik’s work is not just about numbers; it is about identifying and nurturing the most deserving students. He prioritizes government school and college students who perform well despite financial hardships, and to ensure fairness, he personally visits their homes to verify details of their family background. Only after confirming their genuine need does he recommend the right scholarships . A Teacher’s GiftThe impact of Naik’s work can be seen in the eyes of students who now dream of becoming doctors, engineers, teachers, and civil servants—dreams that once seemed impossible. For these students, Naik is not just a retired teacher; he is a mentor, a guide, and a second parent. Many recall how his personal visits and encouraging words gave them the confidence to pursue higher education. His human touch—sitting in their homes, listening to their stories, and guiding them patiently—makes his efforts more than just about scholarships. It is about restoring hope. As he rides his old bike every day at the age of 80, he teaches us a lesson far beyond classrooms: education is the most powerful tool for change, and compassion is the greatest wealth one can share.A Teacher’s Day TributeThis Teacher’s Day, let us celebrate not just those who taught us from textbooks, but those who continue to teach us through their lives. K. Narayana Naik embodies the true spirit of a teacher—someone who uplifts, inspires, and empowers, even long after retirement. His story reminds us that while fame fades, the lives touched through education create a legacy that will outlast generations.

5 Sep 2025

Star Citizens

More Than a Teacher: Dr. Eshwari as a Symbol of Change in Indian Education

Teacher’s Day in India is not just about celebrating those who impart knowledge but also those who inspire with their life journeys. This year, the spotlight shines on Dr. K. Eshwari, a transwoman with extraordinary academic achievements and an even greater story of resilience. With a PhD in Education and a Master’s in Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology, she is now a TGT Biology teacher at KRM Public School, Chennai, marking a historic first in the school’s inclusive journey. Her presence is not just about breaking barriers in employment—it is about rewriting the narrative of representation and respect in Indian education.The Roots of DeterminationBorn into a simple family in Royapuram, Chennai, Eshwari’s childhood was far from easy. She lost her father while still in school, but her determination to study never faltered. As a first-generation graduate, she carried not just her own dreams but also the unfulfilled aspirations of her family. She pursued her undergraduate degree at Pachaiyappa’s College, followed by a Master’s at Presidency College. Later, she completed her teacher training at the Institute of Advanced Study in Education. Her thirst for learning and her willpower eventually led her to achieve a doctorate in education, focusing on “Children with Dyslexia.”A Scholar and a GuideDr. Eshwari’s journey has not been confined to teaching in classrooms alone. She has worked across several educational institutions, including serving as a B.Ed college principal and as guest faculty at the University of Madras. At KRM, her role goes far beyond biology lessons. She guides students in research papers, offers career counseling, and also acts as a counselor for emotional and psychological support. Her work in Educational Psychology and Special Needs has made her a true advocate for every child, ensuring that education reaches hearts as well as minds. Behind her achievements lies a story of struggle that reflects the challenges faced by many in the transgender community. After undergoing gender reassignment surgery, Dr. Eshwari faced rejection from several institutions.Teaching With HeartWhen asked to deliver a demo class during her interview, Dr. Eshwari felt completely at ease. Teaching, after all, had always been her calling. She believes in going beyond textbooks, sometimes taking classes under the shade of trees, sometimes using multi-sensory teaching methods to connect with her students. Her aim is not just to teach biology but to ignite curiosity and creativity in children. She believes that every student deserves a chance to shine, much like she did during her own school days when she was an active participant in co-curricular activities, especially dance. She fondly recalls the moment when she was awarded a cash prize by then education minister Thangam Thennarasu during her school’s silver jubilee celebrations for excelling in dance. That same passion later saw her perform as a dance trainer during Chennai Sangamam events.A School That Leads by ExampleThe leadership of R.J. Thayumanaswamy, CEO of KRM Group of Schools, has ensured that inclusion is not just a policy but a practice. As Padmaja Rajkumar, executive secretary to the CEO, explains, the school has been committed to creating safe and inclusive spaces for years.In 2014, students of Classes VII and VIII participated in a “Design for Change” project, where they trained 11 transgender individuals in life skills such as computer literacy and making doormats. These interactions helped students become allies and taught them empathy. This proves that education is as much about shaping hearts as shaping minds. A Message on Teacher’s DayOn this Teacher’s Day, Dr. K. Eshwari’s story stands as a reminder that teachers are not only transmitters of knowledge but also bearers of hope and change. She has turned her struggles into strength, her pain into purpose, and her journey into a source of inspiration for thousands. For every student who doubts their ability, for every individual who feels excluded, and for every institution hesitant about inclusion, her life says one thing loud and clear: education belongs to all.

4 Sep 2025

Star Citizens

400 Caps, One Legend: Manpreet Singh Enters Hockey's Hall of Fame!

In a sport where consistency is everything, Manpreet Singh has stormed into an elite club, earning 400 international caps, a feat only one other Indian has achieved before him: Dilip Tirkey, former captain and now president of Hockey India. But what exactly does “400 caps” mean? In international sports, each "cap" represents an appearance for your country. To do it once is a dream; to do it 400 times is legendary. Manpreet, who debuted in 2011 as a fresh-faced 19-year-old, now stands as the eighth player in men’s international hockey history to reach this milestone. On Sunday in Antwerp, though India lost 2-3 to Australia, Manpreet won the day, receiving a guard of honor and a signed jersey from the Aussie team. From Rock Bottom to Podium GloryManpreet was part of the squad that finished 12th out of 12 in the 2012 London Olympics, a brutal low. Fast forward to 2021 in Tokyo, and under his captaincy, India scripted history with a bronze medal, ending a 41-year Olympic medal drought. He was again part of the team that bagged bronze in Paris 2024. “Earlier, we just went to participate,” Manpreet said in an interview, reflecting on India’s past Olympic mindset. “Now, we go to win.” The turnaround wasn’t overnight; it came from campfire discipline during the pandemic, a time he says helped the team reflect and reignite their commitment. His leadership was about example-setting: pushing harder, training longer, and believing more fiercely. And that belief took India back to the world stage where it always belonged.A Trophy Cabinet to BeholdA career this long is decorated not just with caps but with medals and accolades that shine just as bright. Manpreet has 2 Olympic bronze medals (2020, 2024), 2 Asian Games golds (2014, 2023), and 2 Commonwealth Games silver medals (2014, 2022). Add to that 4 Asian Champions Trophy titles and consistent performances in the FIH World League and Champions Trophy, and you get a career that speaks louder than any headline. For his unmatched contributions, he received the Arjuna Award in 2018 and India’s highest sporting honor, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, in 2021. Not to mention, he was named FIH Men’s Player of the Year in 2019, a global acknowledgment of his midfield mastery.Beyond Records: Fueling India’s Hockey SoulIn a country where cricket often overshadows, Manpreet Singh has carried the torch of India’s national game with unparalleled grace. As he said ahead of his 400th match,“I still play with the same hunger I had at 19.” As the second Indian to hit this cap milestone, he not only celebrates his personal triumph but also reaffirms hockey’s soul in India’s sporting legacy. With Paris 2024 in the rearview mirror, his eyes are now on inspiring the next generation, not just through wins, but through discipline and humility. Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey said it best: “Very few athletes achieve this level of endurance. Manpreet is a true flagbearer of Indian hockey.” For young athletes, his journey is a living legacy.

18 Jun 2025

Star Citizens

Legend Returns: Viswanathan Anand Leads Freedom Team in Star-Studded World Rapid and Blitz Championship

Viswanathan Anand, a five-time World Chess Champion, is set to make a highly anticipated return to the chessboard in the World Rapid and Blitz Team Championship. Born on December 11, 1969, in Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu, India, Anand has been a legend in the world of chess, earning the title of India's first grandmaster in 1988. With a career spanning over three decades, Anand has dominated the chess world, winning numerous titles and accolades, including the FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in 2003 and 2017.World Rapid and Blitz Team ChampionshipThe World Rapid and Blitz Team Championship is a prestigious tournament featuring top international players from around the globe. This year's event is happening in London, United Kingdom, and promises to be an exciting contest, with Anand participating as part of the Freedom team, led by FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky. Unfortunately, Magnus Carlsen, the world's top player, has declined to participate in the tournament, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the competition. The tournament features a unique format, requiring each team to include a female player and a player rated less than 2200 on the FIDE rating list as of June 1. This rule adds a dynamic element to the competition, making it more unpredictable and exciting. The tournament will consist of rapid and blitz events, with the winner of each competition set to receive a significant prize of $110,000 and $75,000, respectively.Star-Studded Lineup Set for World Rapid and Blitz Team ChampionshipThe World Rapid and Blitz Team Championship features a remarkable roster of elite players from across the globe. The World Rapid Chess Team headlines the event with a powerhouse lineup including Ian Nepomniachtchi (Russia), Alireza Firouzja, Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, Hikaru Nakamura, Alexandra Kosteniuk, and Wesley So. The Freedom Team will be captained by legendary Indian Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand and led by FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky. Additionally, several rising stars and seasoned professionals such as Arjun Erigaisi, P. Harikrishna, V. Pranav, Luke Leon Mendonca, and Nihal Sarin will represent the fifth-seeded Ashdod Elite Chess Club, promising a thrilling and competitive championship.Importance of the TournamentThe World Rapid and Blitz Team Championship is a significant event in the chess calendar, providing a platform for top players to showcase their skills and compete against each other in a team format. With its unique rules and format, the tournament promises to be an exciting and unpredictable contest. Anand's participation adds to the excitement, as he looks to make a strong comeback to the chessboard.Anand's return to the chessboard is highly anticipated, given his illustrious career and dominance in the world of chess. As the sole Indian representative on the Freedom team, Anand will be looking to make a strong impression and lead his team to victory. With his vast experience and skill, Anand is sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the tournament.

13 Jun 2025

Star Citizens

The Unstoppable "Tube Master": Abdul Malik's Daily Swim to School to Reach His Students!

Abdul Malik's daily journey to school is anything but ordinary. Located in the picturesque town of Malappuram, Kerala, his school is surrounded by the serene Kadalundi river on three sides. For many, this would be an obstacle, but not for Malik. Faced with a tedious 12-kilometer road journey that took almost three hours, Malik discovered a unique solution swimming across the river. With the help of a colleague, he began swimming in 1994 and has been doing so ever since.Swimming Against the TideMalik's daily swim is no easy feat. The river's rough waters and strong currents make it a challenging journey. During monsoons, snakes and uprooted trees floating downstream add to the risks. Yet, Malik perseveres, using a car tire tube around his waist to stay afloat while carrying his belongings above water. His dedication to teaching and his students keeps him motivated, and he finds this route to be more time-efficient and practical. Malik's unique journey has become an opportunity to teach his students valuable life skills. He believes that swimming is an essential skill, and he imparts this knowledge to his students above grade 5. Moreover, his commitment to his students serves as a powerful role model, demonstrating the importance of perseverance and hard work.Environmental ConcernsAs a staunch environmentalist, Malik is deeply concerned about the river's deteriorating condition. He often takes his students on river-cleaning missions, removing plastic and garbage from the water. This initiative not only cleans the river but also instills in his students a sense of responsibility towards the environment. While Malik's dedication to swimming to school remains unshaken, his additional responsibilities as the headmaster have forced him to take the road route for the past two years. Though this journey is longer and more tedious, Malik's commitment to his students and teaching remains unchanged.A True InspirationMalik's story is a light to to the power of determination and dedication. His students affectionately call him "Tube Master," and his journey has become a source of inspiration for the community. His unending dedication to education and his students has inspired countless individuals. As we reflect on his journey, we are reminded that with determination and perseverance, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

7 May 2025

Star Citizens

The Vedic Mathemagician : How one teacher is bringing change in India's Math Education

What happens when a child's natural curiosity meets the beauty of mathematics? In Singh's case, it was a perfect match. His mother, Bharathi Bai, introduced him to the world of numbers. But it was his guru, Burra Padmanabha Sharma, who truly ignited his passion, unveiling the wonders of Vedic Mathematics when Singh was just five years old. This early immersion in the world of mathematics sparked a lifelong curiosity and set the stage for his remarkable journey.From Teacher to Vedic Math ExpertHolding a Master's in Commerce and a Bachelor's in Education, Singh initially worked as a Social Studies teacher in private schools. However, his mathematical skills soon earned him recognition as a Vedic Math expert. A corporate school took notice of his talent and established a department specifically for him, where he trained students in Vedic Mathematics across its branches nationwide.Singh has conducted seminars at universities, including NIT Agartala, where he trained government teachers in advanced calculation techniques. He has also offered free sessions in government schools, introducing economically disadvantaged students to Vedic Mathematics. His contributions have earned him the Swarna Shri Award in 2018.Singh has also been actively working to bring Vedic Mathematics into school curricula. He believes that this ancient Indian method of calculation can help students develop a deeper understanding and love for mathematics. During a recent meeting with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, he explained the significance of Vedic Mathematics and its potential to improve India's mathematical prowess.A Vision for a Math-Literate IndiaSingh's vision is to make India math literate, and he believes that Vedic Mathematics can play an important role in achieving this goal. With his expertise and passion, he is confident that he can make a difference in the lives of millions of students across India. He envisions a future where mathematics is no longer a source of fear but rather a tool for empowerment and problem-solving.Vedic Mathematics has the potential to change the way mathematics is taught and learned in India. By making mental calculations and clear understanding, Vedic Mathematics can help students develop a deeper connection with mathematics. Moreover, Vedic Mathematics can also help to promote critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.Bondili Maruthi Ram Singh's journey is an example to the power of passion, dedication, and innovation. As we get to know his achievements, we are reminded that mathematics is not just a subject, but a tool for empowerment and transformation. With Vedic Mathematics, Singh is not only changing the way mathematics is taught, but also inspiring a new generation of math enthusiasts.

6 Feb 2025

Star Citizens

Uttarakhand Teacher Plants Over 95,000 Trees, Inspiring Environmental Conservation

In a remarkable display of dedication and passion for the environment, Satendra Singh Bhandari, the principal of a government primary school in Rudra Prayag district, Uttarakhand, has planted over 95,000 trees, defying challenging geographical conditions. Born in 1971, Bhandari developed a deep affinity for trees and nature from a young age. With a resolution to contribute to environmental protection, he embarked on a mission to plant as many trees as possible. Since his appointment as a teacher in 2009, Bhandari has tirelessly worked alongside his students, transforming the school and its surroundings into green havens. The impact of Bhandari's efforts extends beyond the school premises. Local residents have actively joined his tree-planting initiative, contributing over 7 'nali' of land and numerous fruit-bearing trees. The school's 5.25-acre land has flourished with thriving vegetation, including amla, guava, orange, pomegranate, oak, Sheesham, and khachkar. Bhandari's unwavering commitment has earned him recognition and support, including from PMO deputy secretary Mangesh Ghildiyal. Together, they continue to advocate for environmental conservation and afforestation, planting trees in barren lands near the village and along the Alaknanda River. Under Bhandari's guidance, the government primary school in Kot Talla, Rudraprayag, has become a shining example of what determination can achieve. Unique initiatives, such as students planting trees upon admission and pledging to plant trees upon graduation, promote environmental awareness and conservation among the young generation. With over two dozen awards to his name, Bhandari's story serves as a beacon of hope in a time when government schools are often overlooked. His inspiring efforts remind us that each individual, driven by passion and dedication, can make a tangible difference in preserving our planet for future generations.

26 Dec 2023

Star Citizens

Ageless Triumph: Woman Cop Defies Age and Shines in Athletics After 50

In a remarkable display of passion and determination, B Anuradha, an Assistant Sub-Inspector attached to the Central Crime Station in Visakhapatnam, has achieved outstanding success in athletics after the age of 50. Can women truly excel in athletics even after crossing that age milestone? Anuradha recently participated in the Sanyukta Bhartiya Khel Foundation’s (SBKF) 9th National Games held in Dharamshala and emerged victorious in the 50+ age category. She secured a gold medal in powerlifting and discus throw, a silver medal in javelin throw, and a bronze medal in shot put. Her remarkable achievements not only highlight her dedication but also exemplify the immense potential of women to excel in diverse fields, even later in life. Having joined the police department in 1992 as a constable, Anuradha actively participated in athletics and sports throughout her career. She competed in several national powerlifting championships and even achieved a karate black belt. Despite taking a break from sports for 18 years due to motherhood and work responsibilities, Anuradha decided to rekindle her sports journey a few months ago, encouraged by her seniors with whom she had previously participated in national events. Anuradha's success at the SBKF 9th National Games has earned her a well-deserved spot in an upcoming international competition scheduled for February. Reflecting on her experience, she emphasized the importance of not abandoning one's strengths in the face of everyday struggles, as these strengths not only motivate individuals but also inspire others. Anuradha's ultimate goal is to bring honor to the police department through her athletic achievements and fulfill her purpose as both a police officer and an athlete. She believes her pursuits can serve as an inspiration for others, encouraging them to explore new interests and recognize their passions.

19 Dec 2023

Star Citizens

From India to the World Stage: Licypriya Kangujam's Quest for Climate Change

A pivotal moment unfolded at the United Nations Climate Conference 2023 (COP28) in Dubai when Licypriya Kangujam, a 12-year-old climate activist from India, seized the spotlight. She dashed onto the stage, holding a sign with a powerful plea boldly stating, 'Put an end to fossil fuels,' Save our planet and our future.’ She fervently urged the global assembly of delegates, representing 190 nations, to take immediate action against climate change. Often likened to India's Greta Thunberg, Licypriya's impassioned call for action echoed through the venue. With a swift and powerful protest against the use of fossil fuels, she voiced the slogan 'Our Leaders Lie, People Die', resonating deeply with the audience before being escorted away. Despite the interruption, her fervor earned accolades from COP28's director-general Ambassador Majid Al Suwaidi, who commended her zeal, prompting a round of applause. Licypriya detailed her detention for over 30 minutes following the protest by taking to social media, denouncing the unjust confiscation of her credentials and advocating for the rights of children to voice concerns within the UN. This remarkable activist's journey began in Manipur at the age of seven, where her advocacy for climate action and disaster risk reduction commenced. Her commitment led her to global platforms, including the UN and the World Economic Forum, where she amplified her calls to end fossil fuel subsidies and demand urgent climate action. Licypriya's unwavering determination serves as a beacon for young activists globally, showcasing the potent force of youthful voices in steering the world toward a sustainable future.

13 Dec 2023

Star Citizens

84-Year-Old Retired Teacher in Telangana Dedicates Life to Philanthropy, Inspires Others

In a heartwarming display of compassion and dedication, 84-year-old Gurrala Sarojanamma, a retired teacher from Telangana, has devoted her life to philanthropy, leaving a lasting impact on her community. Born in Andhra Pradesh and settled in Bodhan town in Nizamabad District, Sarojanamma strongly believes in the power of service to bring satisfaction and smiles to people's lives. Facing opposition and familial disputes over her altruistic views, Sarojanamma's commitment to service was strengthened by a particular incident. Witnessing a family being denied the opportunity to perform the last rites of a loved one due to personal sentiments of the house owner, deeply moved her. Determined to make a difference, Sarojanamma embarked on a remarkable journey. She established a building named Dharmasthala, equipped with a freezer to preserve bodies, allowing families to honor their traditions. The government provided the land, and Sarojanamma invested Rs 20 lakh in its construction, ensuring free access to the facilities for those in need. Additionally, she funded the construction of a cowshed and generously donated to a pharmacy, among other philanthropic endeavors. One extraordinary act of generosity stood out as Sarojanamma donated her own house, worth crores of rupees, to the Retired Employees Association. Her selfless service has not only brought fulfillment to her life but has also earned her the endearing title of "Peddamma" from those she has touched. Recognizing her extraordinary contributions, Sarojanamma received accolades from Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan and was honored by the American Telugu Association. Her remarkable story serves as an inspiration, encouraging others to engage in acts of service with a genuine human touch.

3 Oct 2023

Star Citizens

Teachers Overcome Obstacles to Educate Class 3 Student with Cerebral Palsy

In a heartwarming display of compassion, teachers at Oachira Memana GMLP School in Kerala have gone above and beyond to ensure the education of one of their students with cerebral palsy. Archith, a determined Class 3 student, faced difficulties attending school regularly due to his medical condition. However, his desire to learn remained unwavering. Upon learning about Archith's situation, his class teacher Nisha R, along with other teachers and the headmistress Hareesa, came up with an innovative solution. They decided to create a classroom in Archith's home, transforming a corner into a small and cozy learning space. This thoughtful initiative allowed Archith to receive education in the comfort of his own home. The teachers volunteered their time, visiting Archith's home on their days off to conduct classes. While there are administrative formalities to be completed and higher-ups to be informed, they remain optimistic that they will receive approval to conduct more classes in the future. Despite being diagnosed with a 70 percent disability, Archith's determination to learn never faltered. He expressed his longing to meet his best friends, Aisha and Anandu, whom he missed due to not being able to attend school regularly. Nisha madam, his class teacher, promised to take him to school, giving him hope of reuniting with his friends. Archith's grandmother, Suma Ashokan, expressed gratitude to the dedicated teachers for their unwavering support and care. She emphasized the importance of the support Archith receives, stating that it brings him happiness and enables him to pursue his studies.

28 Sep 2023

Star Citizens

Telangana Yoga Teacher Inspires Global Mindfulness Movement

In a remarkable display of dedication and passion, Satish Thota, a physical education teacher at Marpadaga Government High School in Telangana's Siddipet district, has made a profound impact on the world through his teachings of yoga. His efforts have earned him international recognition and praise, leading to the establishment of a global mindfulness movement. Satish's journey began with his relentless commitment to teaching yoga to his students on a daily basis. However, his influence extended far beyond the boundaries of his classroom. He organized yoga training camps in Siddipet and provided training to teachers from various schools and the general public as part of the Arogya Siddipet initiative. During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Satish went above and beyond by conducting online yoga classes for around five hundred NRIs located overseas. His dedication didn't stop there. Satish played a pivotal role in establishing the NRI Vasavi Association, which now boasts a membership of 250 people. Satish's remarkable achievements have earned him the prestigious National Best Technical Official Award by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. This recognition will be conferred upon him during the 37th National Games in Goa. His commitment to promoting yoga as an integral part of daily life led him to establish the Vyasa Maharshi Yoga Society in Siddipet, with the support of Minister Harish Rao. Approximately 50 students trained by Satish have actively participated in state and national-level yoga competitions and other sports events, showcasing the transformative power of yoga. Satish, along with his wife Sandhya, continues to advocate for yoga's inclusion in daily routines, emphasizing its manifold benefits.

13 Sep 2023

Star Citizens

Meet Sushil Kumar, the Railway Engineer Turned Champion Teacher Transforming Lives in Delhi

Sushil Kumar, a railway engineer, embarked on a remarkable journey to transform the lives of underprivileged children in Delhi. Witnessing young children loitering due to their parents' inability to afford school sparked a determination to make a difference. In the early 2000s, his family moved from a village in Rajasthan to Delhi. That was when he noticed the glaring disparities in access to education. In 2009, while preparing for competitive exams, Sushil Kumar attended coaching classes and observed many bright minds who couldn’t afford the class. After successfully clearing his exams and returning from training in 2013, he initiated a free-of-cost coaching class alongside his job, aiming to empower these students. What started with Sushil Kumar's three-hour classes soon blossomed into a community of 300 eager learners. He sought to enroll them in mainstream schools, but didn’t meet with success due to bureaucratic hurdles. Undaunted, he transformed the coaching class into a primary education hub and established the Nirbhed Foundation in 2015. Nirbhed Foundation's mission is simple yet powerful: to uplift neglected children. Despite minimal external support, they follow a holistic approach, offering basic education, arts, crafts, yoga, martial arts, and medical camps. They empower young minds, ensuring they receive a safe and nurturing environment. With his relentless commitment to provide education to the poverty-stricken and neglected children of the society, Sushil Kumar proves that one change lives through education and compassion.We salute such teachers for their unwavering dedication.

5 Sep 2023

Star Citizens

Mini Maestro: Babar Ali, The World's Youngest Headmaster, Paves the Path to Universal Education

In a remarkable tale of determination and passion, Babar Ali, a teacher from the Murshidabad district in West Bengal, has become the youngest headmaster in the world. At the tender age of nine, driven by his love for teaching, Babar embarked on a journey to provide education to underprivileged children in his community. Today, his incredible work has not only transformed the lives of countless students but has also contributed to increasing the literacy rate in the region. Babar Ali's school, named Anand Shiksha Niketan, started humbly in the courtyard of his home, operating from a simple hut. Motivated by the sight of children his age unable to attend school, he took it upon himself to provide them with an education. His dedication and perseverance have resulted in the establishment of a school that now educates hundreds of poverty-stricken children. Recognized by various national and international agencies, Babar Ali has received numerous awards for his selfless work. He was honored with the Real Heroes award by CNN IBN, the Indian of the Year award by NDTV, and the Literacy Hero Award by Rotary India Literacy Mission, among others. His inspiring story has even been included in the coursebooks of different state and central education boards. Anand Shiksha Niketan, a school for joyful learning, not only provides tuition-free education but also offers free learning kits, uniforms, and basic amenities to its students. Babar Ali's vision and relentless efforts have inspired others to join the cause of making education accessible to all. Babar Ali's unwavering commitment to education serves as an inspiration for everyone, proving that with dedication and a specific goal, great outcomes can be achieved.

5 Sep 2023

Star Citizens

One Teacher's Mission to Save Children from the Clutches of Cellphones

Tukaram Adsul, a dedicated teacher from Ahmednagar district, is on a mission to keep his students engaged and away from excessive cellphone usage. Every day, despite the scorching heat and challenging terrain, the 52-year-old zilla parishad teacher carries two bags filled with storybooks, novels, and comics to visit his students' homes near Gitewadi village. The children, currently enjoying their summer vacation, eagerly await his arrival to exchange the books they read the previous week. Since his transfer to Gitewadi in 2018, Adsul has been actively promoting a reading culture among the children. He established a library in the ZP school with the help of community participation and donations, housing hundreds of books. On Saturdays, he introduced a unique initiative where students come to school solely to read storybooks, leaving their school bags behind. Starting with illustrated books published by the State Council of Educational Research and Training, Adsul distributed books to underprivileged children. As they developed an interest in reading, they craved more. Adsul sought the help of villagers, encouraging them to donate books for birthdays and weddings. Understanding each student's preferences, he ensures to bring books tailored to their liking during his visits. Adsul's students have surpassed their age in terms of language proficiency, tackling newspapers and articles that resonate with them. His future plans include introducing English storybooks, gradually increasing the difficulty level. With every visit, Tukaram Adsul ignites a passion for reading within his students, ensuring that their summer vacations are filled with knowledge, imagination, and a lifelong love for books.

5 Jun 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

Breaking Barriers and Bridging Continents: The Inspiring Story of Divya Nawale, the Climate Warrior

Meet Divya Nawale, a climate activist and eco-advocate from Hyderabad who has accomplished what many only dream of – visiting all seven continents on Earth, including Antarctica, not once but twice! Her aim was to educate people on the pressing issue of climate change and motivate them to take meaningful action to preserve our planet. In an interview with TNIE, Divya shared that her first trip to Antarctica was with the 2041 ClimateForce team when she was just 23 years old. The purpose of the trip was to educate young people about greenhouse emissions and the melting of Antarctic ice. Divya was so moved by the beauty and fragility of the polar regions that she decided to pursue a career in climate change. Today, she works with the UN Climate Change Secretariat to curb global warming and has carried out climate change projects in various parts of the world. Divya had added difficulties because she was a young woman and people doubted her intelligence. She continued to educate herself on global politics and had a good outlook, though. In addition to her work with the UN, she also interacts with local groups like the Nirmaan Organisation in Hyderabad on environmental initiatives. The biggest hurdle is that people are pessimistic and believe that the damage has been done and cannot be reversed. As an optimist, Divya believes that innovative ideas, mindful consumption, changing lifestyle habits, and even something as simple as carrying a cloth bag can make a significant impact. She looks forward to engaging young minds to create more eco-champions and formulating better and stronger government policies worldwide to avoid climate crises and global warming. Divya Nawale's story is an inspiration for all of us to take action and do our bit to preserve our planet. She has shown that anyone, regardless of age or gender, can make a difference by having a positive attitude, educating oneself, and taking action.

19 Apr 2023

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 Headmaster Leaves No Stone Unturned to Ensure Well Being of His Students

The Jammu Mandal Praja Parishad School in Vizianagaram district in Andhra Pradesh used to face huge dropouts. The major reason behind the dropouts was that children didn’t have proper transport facilities. Vizianagaram is a place where there is a maximum number of migrants who leave early for work and their children are left under the care of the elders. The senior citizens, some of whom are weak themselves are unable to help their grandchildren reach school. Taking stock of the situation the headmaster of the school Mantri Rammohana Rao arranged one auto-rickshaw for the safe transport of kids from their homes in nearby villages and colonies to the school and back. He pays Rs 4,500 from his pocket but ensures the continuation of the student’s education. Owing to him, 30 students who had earlier dropped out have returned and the school now has a decent strength of 120 students. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. When the school was in a dilapidated condition after being hit by a cyclone five years ago, Rammohana Rao didn't wait for the government’s help. Instead, he approached the residents and his alumni and with the donated amount, the school’s compound wall and other infrastructure were rebuilt. Rammohana Rao also arranged for Western-style toilets to be constructed for the convenience of physically challenged students. Adhering to the Swacch Bharat programme, he banned plastic in school. The school abounds with greenery due to his persistent efforts. The headmaster made it mandatory for every child t adopt a sapling and look after it. Rammohana Rao sincerely cared for the health of his students. A healthy breakfast is served daily at 7:30 am. Speaking to The Hindu, Rammohana Rao said, “We don’t allow kids to eat junk and packaged food. Healthy snacks are provided during the interval with the support of teachers, parents and philanthropists. Our aim is to see healthy growth in their body as the majority of them don’t get direct care from parents who migrated to cities in search of livelihood,” He was awarded the State Best Teacher Award in the year 2018 for his dedication towards the school and its students. He was also presented with the Harita Award and Swacha Vidyalaya Award for ensuring the overall performance of the school.

23 Sep 2019

Star Citizens

A Teacher’s Funfilled and Innovative Teaching Methods Brought Kids Back to This Government School

There was a time when Sonwa school in Lucknow had very thin attendance. The few students who came would wait for lunch-time to have their mid-day meal. A concerned school teacher, Shipra Tiwari noticed the dwindling attendance and decided to do something about it. Shipra decided to make learning fun for them so that they came to school by choice and not by compulsion. She resorted to new and innovative methods of teaching instead of the conventional one. Puppet Show Puppets were among her first teaching tools that sparked an interest in her students. Shipra started taking lessons and conveying important messages through puppets. For instance, with the help of puppets, she taught the children the importance of hygiene. When word spread about the gudda-guddi (puppet) show, students started attending classes and the classroom was full of students. Bottle Garden Session Another activity which garnered a lot of interest among students was the bottle garden activity. In this activity, old bottles were collected and transformed into beautiful planters. The motto here was ‘Best out of Waste’. With this concept, the students went on to decorate the entire school as well as their homes. Apart from the wacky tools which she brings to make learning fun, she also uses modern tools on android apps. Now, her class is chock-o-block with students. Her presence itself fills the class with excitement as she enters cheerfully with a spring in her feet. She is a funky modern teacher who flaunts tattoos and so students call her tattoo-wali teacher. Hats off to this great teacher who went out of the way to awaken interest and passion for learning among her students.

6 Sep 2019

Star Citizens

Meet 94 YO Gulabji Chai Wala And Know What Makes Him Stand Strong Even Today

The freshness of a cup of tea rejuvenates our mornings. Most of us have our preferences when it comes to the aromatic beverage. Some cannot do without their homemade teas while some make it a point to have it from their favourite tea stall. In every city, there is a fabled chai wala whose cup of hot tea has become the talk of the town. Similarly, Gulab Ji Chai in Jaipur is quite famous in the city, not just for the chai that it sells but, also for some other reasons. 94-year-old Gulabji started his tea stall in 1947 and even today he serves a glass of tea to his customers with a jovial face. Apart from running his business, he is also known for his giving nature. If you ever visit Gulabji’s tea stall at 6 am you’ll see a huge crowd waiting to have a sip of his awesome glass of tea. Along with his daily customers, he also serves almost 200 to 250 beggars too with free tea and bread. He makes sure no one leaves his stall with an empty stomach. Gulabji started with his business with a minimal amount of Rs 130 and not everyone was happy about it. In a conversation with Curly Tales about the same, he said: “I started with a small cart in 1947, I come from a Rajput family & when I first opened a chai stall not everyone appreciated the act. They used to often keep a distance with me saying that this is not good work and now they all are loving it!” Gulabji’s enthusiasm has made us realize that our age cannot define us and our urge to stand strong will make our journey worthwhile. We at My Indian Dream are inspired by Gulabji’s determination. Image Courtesy: Oh My Rajasthan

9 Jul 2019

Star Citizens

A Young Girl’s Idea Truly A Boon For Alzheimer Patients

Reshma Khanam has won the IGNITE 2017 award for her innovative idea. She conceived the idea of a guiding system for Alzheimer patient if they get lost. This device once developed will be a boon to Alzheimer patients as it will help them find their way home or alert his/her family or take assistance from any passer-by if they lose their way. Reshma said that it would be a wearable device equipped with a GPS and a SOS button. The idea came to her mind when she saw her grandmother suffering from Alzheimer’s and she felt the need of some guiding system for patients like her if they get lost.

8 Jan 2018

Star Citizens

Sports Spirit

Double Gold in Dubai: India Clinches Men’s and Women’s Roll Ball World Cups

Indian sport witnessed a moment of rare symmetry and pride in Dubai when both the men’s and women’s roll ball teams emerged as world champions on the same night. Facing Kenya, the defending champions in both categories, India delivered performances marked by grit, belief, and tactical maturity to script a historic double triumph at the 2025 Roll Ball World Cup. For a sport that often thrives quietly away from the mainstream spotlight, the twin victories felt especially powerful. They were not just about medals and trophies but about years of unseen effort finally receiving global recognition.Women Set the Tone with a Battle of NervesThe Indian women’s team laid the foundation for the historic night with a tense and thrilling 3–2 victory over Kenya. The final unfolded as a test of composure, with both teams matching each other goal for goal and refusing to concede ground. Kenya entered the contest chasing a third consecutive world title, applying constant pressure and forcing India to defend deep for long spells. Yet, the Indian players remained disciplined, absorbing the attacks and striking at crucial moments. Their defensive organization and calm decision-making proved decisive as they protected a slender lead until the final whistle. The win marked India’s third women’s Roll Ball World Cup title, equalling Kenya’s tally. It also represented a return to the summit after finishing third in the previous edition held in Pune in 2023. For many of the players, the victory was deeply personal—a reward for years of training, travel, and sacrifice in a sport that rarely promises fame. Officials credited the triumph to fitness, teamwork, and trust. The team’s ability to stay composed under pressure reflected growing maturity and belief on the international stage.Men Deliver a Comeback for the AgesIf the women’s final showcased composure, the men’s championship match delivered raw drama. Trailing 4–8 against a confident Kenyan side, India appeared to be slipping away from the title. Kenya’s momentum was strong, and the pressure was relentless. What followed was a remarkable turnaround. India tightened its defence, slowed the tempo, and began converting crucial chances. With each goal, belief surged—not just among the players, but across the bench and the stands. In a heart-stopping finish, India edged ahead to secure an 11–10 victory, completing one of the most memorable comebacks in Roll Ball World Cup history. The win handed India a record fifth men’s world title, reclaiming the crown they had lost to Kenya in the previous edition after winning four consecutive championships since 2013. Team officials later described the victory as a triumph of mental strength. Even when trailing, the players trusted the plan and each other, turning adversity into opportunity.Understanding Roll Ball and India’s Deep RootsRoll ball is a fast-paced team sport played on roller skates, combining elements of basketball, handball, and throwball. Players move at high speed while bouncing and passing the ball, aiming to score the maximum number of goals within the stipulated time. The sport was invented in 2003 in Pune by physical education teacher Raju Dabhade, who sought to create a dynamic game that blended skating with ball-handling skills. Today, Dabhade also serves as the secretary of the International Roll Ball Federation. Played between two teams of twelve players, with six on the field at a time, roll ball demands speed, coordination, balance, and tactical awareness. Protective gear such as helmets and knee pads is essential. Over the years, India has quietly built a strong rollball ecosystem, especially at the international level. Regular domestic competitions, growing grassroots participation, and exposure to overseas tournaments have helped nurture a steady pipeline of talent.Celebration, Recognition and the Road AheadNews of the historic double victory sparked celebrations across sporting circles in India. Coaches, former players, and supporters called for greater recognition and institutional support for roll ball and similar non-mainstream sports. Sports administrators believe these wins can act as a catalyst for increased funding, better infrastructure, and wider visibility. However, experts caution that sustained success will depend on long-term planning, consistent investment, and integration into school and collegiate sports programs. Without such structural backing, they warn, achievements risk becoming isolated moments rather than building blocks for sustained growth.On one unforgettable night in Dubai, Indian athletes proved that determination, preparation, and unity can overcome even the toughest champions. As the tricolour rose twice and the national anthem echoed, the moment captured more than victory; it captured belief. Belief in a sport born in India, belief in athletes who train without limelight, and belief that Indian sport, in all its diversity, is ready to shine on the world stage.

19 Dec 2025

Sports Spirit

Unstoppable Spirit : India Makes History at the ITTF Youth Worlds with a Brilliant Silver

In a milestone moment for Indian table tennis, the U-19 Boys’ Team clinched a historic silver medal at the 2025 ITTF World Youth Championships held in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Though the young squad fell 0–3 to a strong Japanese team in the final, their journey has ignited hope, pride, and new dreams for Indian table tennis. For the first time ever, an Indian boys’ team reached the final of this premier global event, an achievement that places them firmly among the world’s best.A Journey Written with Courage and BeliefThe path to the final was filled with pressure, grit, and immense determination. The Indian trio—Ankur Bhattacharjee, P.B. Abhinandh, and Priyanuj Bhattacharya—carried not just their paddles but also the dreams of millions of young Indian paddlers hoping to make it big. Their breakthrough moment came in the semifinal clash against Chinese Taipei, a team known for its speed and precision. India edged out a thrilling 3–2 victory, showcasing maturity far beyond their age. Every point was fought like it was their last. Every rally echoed their growing confidence on the world stage. This victory marked the first time India had ever entered a World Youth Championships final, a landmark achievement in the history of Indian table tennis.The Final Against Japan: A Battle of Nerves and SkillIn the final, India faced Japan, one of the strongest youth table tennis nations in the world. Japan’s consistency, tactical discipline, and lightning-quick reflexes have made them global powerhouses, and their performance in the final lived up to that reputation. The opening match saw Ankur Bhattacharjee take on Ryuusei Kawasaki of Japan. What followed was a spectacular five-set battle filled with breathtaking rallies and courageous comebacks. Bhattacharjee fought till the last moment, eventually going down 2–3. His performance, though ending in defeat, showed incredible heart and skill qualities that make champions. The remaining matches also went in Japan’s favor as India lost the tie 0–3, settling for silver. But even in defeat, the boys walked off with their heads held high. This wasn’t just a result; it was a statement that India has arrived.Understanding the ITTF World Youth ChampionshipsThe ITTF World Youth Championships is one of the biggest and most respected table tennis tournaments for young players under 19 and under 15. It replaced the older World Junior Championships in 2021 after the International Table Tennis Federation introduced a broader, more exciting format. The event features two team competitions and five individual events in both age categories, giving young paddlers many chances to prove themselves on the global stage. Every year, the championship brings together the world’s best rising talents—players who often go on to become Olympians and world champions. The 2025 edition in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, continued this tradition with high-level matches, emotional moments, and inspiring performances from young athletes across the world.Why This Silver Medal Matters for IndiaThis silver medal is far more than a place on the podium; it marks a true turning point for Indian table tennis. For years, India has produced stars like Sharath Kamal, Manika Batra, and G. Sathiyan, yet a team medal at the World Youth Championships had always remained out of reach. With this achievement, the U-19 boys have shattered that barrier and set a new standard for the country. Their success also sends a powerful message to thousands of young players practicing in small halls and crowded community centres across India—that their dreams are real and within reach. As these boys prepare to enter the senior circuit, the experience, confidence, and exposure they have gained in Romania will make India stronger at major events like the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and even future Olympics, giving the entire nation hope for even greater victories ahead.Behind every medal, there is a heartbeat. For Ankur, Abhinandh, and Priyanuj, this silver is not just a medal—it is a reflection of years of early morning practice, missed vacations, back-to-back tournaments, and countless sacrifices made by their families. Parents who stood by them. Coaches who guided them. Federation support that shaped them. The 2025 silver medal is more than a trophy. It is a promise. A beginning. A spark that will inspire the next generation.

26 Nov 2025

Sports Spirit

Global News

Chelsea Crowned Club World Champions After 3–0 Win Over PSG

On a summer evening at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Chelsea Football Club carved its name into football history once again. In front of a roaring international crowd, the Premier League side delivered a near-perfect performance to beat Paris Saint-Germain 3–0 and lift the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. For Chelsea, this wasn’t just a trophy; it was the result of 329 days of planning, rebuilding, and belief. What started as a dream turned into a dominant display of modern football, powered by Cole Palmer’s brilliance and the clinical finishing of Joao Pedro.Palmer, Pedro, and a Final That Stunned Europe’s EliteChelsea didn’t just win; they dominated. Facing the reigning UEFA Champions League winners, PSG, many expected a close contest. Instead, they got a footballing lesson from a team that had clearly done its homework. In the 22nd minute, PSG’s Nuno Mendes misjudged a clearance, gifting possession to Malo Gusto. The fullback’s shot was initially blocked, but he recovered and squared the ball to Cole Palmer, who calmly placed his shot just inside the post.Following the 30th-minute cooling break, Palmer produced a moment of magic. Dancing between defenders at the edge of the box, he curled in his second goal of the night, a finish that echoed confidence far beyond his years. Palmer wasn’t done. Early in the second half, he slipped a perfect through ball to Joao Pedro, who controlled it with grace, beat the offside trap, and chipped a sensational finish over Gianluigi Donnarumma to seal Chelsea’s third. PSG’s night went from bad to worse when Joao Neves was sent off late in the second half for a reckless challenge, reducing the French champions to ten men and ending any hope of a comeback.A Year in the Making: Chelsea’s Road to GloryThis wasn’t an overnight miracle. A year ago, Chelsea made the strategic decision to treat the 2025 Club World Cup as a top priority. The club's hierarchy invested heavily in squad depth, training infrastructure, and performance incentives aimed at international success. From bonus-based motivation to fresh tactics, every part of the club’s system was aligned to this single goal. It paid off handsomely. At the heart of Chelsea’s story is Cole Palmer, a 22-year-old attacking midfielder whose rise has captivated fans and pundits alike. Released by Manchester City, Palmer arrived with a point to prove. On the world stage in New Jersey, he delivered the performance of a lifetime. A Tournament Reimagined: The New FIFA Club World CupThis year marked the beginning of a bold new era for the FIFA Club World Cup. Expanded to 32 teams and held every four years like the national World Cup, the competition brought together the best clubs from every continent in a month-long football festival. Here’s how the format breaks down: 12 teams from Europe 6 from South America 4 each from Asia, Africa, and North America 1 each from Oceania and the host nation. With a $1 billion prize pool ($525M in participation fees and $475M in performance bonuses), the 2025 edition was the most lucrative and competitive yet. European clubs like Chelsea and PSG received higher base fees due to commercial and sporting rankings, with Chelsea estimated to earn between $30–38 million. While 2025 marked the launch of the new format, the FIFA Club World Cup has deep historical roots. The first official tournament took place in Brazil in 2000. However, attempts to crown a world club champion go back much further, even as far as the 1887 match between Aston Villa and Hibernian and the 1909 Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy, where English side West Auckland shocked Europe. In 1951, the Brazilian Football Association created the Copa Rio, won by Palmeiras in front of 200,000 fans at the Maracanã. Though not officially recognized by FIFA at the time, the competition was seen by many as the first world club championship. The modern Club World Cup returned in 2005, absorbing the Intercontinental Cup and becoming an annual event until 2023. Now, under FIFA’s new vision, it’s poised to rival the World Cup in scale and prestige.Chelsea Join the GreatsChelsea’s win marks their second Club World Cup title, following their 2021 triumph. They now join an elite group of clubs to have won multiple global titles, including Real Madrid (a record five), Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Corinthians. While Spain leads in total wins, England boasts the highest number of different winning clubs, now four, showcasing the depth and quality of English football. As the final whistle blew in New Jersey, the message was loud and clear: this Chelsea side is ready to take on the world and win.

16 Jul 2025

Global News

Another Big Mover: A Famous Youtuber Is Driven To Clean Water Bodies!

Jimmy Donaldson, known to most as MrBeast on YouTube, has been busy with a project for a while now. He kicked off his #TeamSeas effort back in October 2021. The aim? To get $30 million and get rid of 30 million pounds of junk from the seas. They hit the $30 million mark by January 2022. Then, they kept at it to reach the 30 million pound of thrash goal over the next couple of years. Now just over two years later, they've crossed that off their list too. On July 16, MrBeast shared some big news: Team Seas had helped clean up 34,080,191 pounds of trash from oceans all over the world. Who is He Known For? MrBeast is super famous on the internet, to say the least. He's got more YouTube subscribers than anybody else as of June 2024. He's become well-known for handing out huge amounts of cash to random folks, and this has helped him gain over 302 million followers. He also helped start several different charity projects, including one called Team Seas. MrBeast hopped onto YouTube in 2012 at just 13 years old. At first, he was like any other kid making videos. But in 2017, he did something weird - he counted to 100,000. Because the internet is strange, this super boring video blew up, and he started to get big. These days, his videos are crazy expensive and get millions of views every time. Now, MrBeast isn't just a guy - it's a whole company with almost 300 people. It's also got a bunch of other channels under it, like Beast Reacts, MrBeast Gaming, MrBeast 2, and Beast Philanthropy. (Source: Google Images) Besides Team Seas, MrBeast started MrBeast Burger and Feastables. He also helped create Team Trees, which has gotten $24 million for the Arbor Day Foundation since it began. Team Seas, which raises money for the Ocean Conservancy and The Ocean Cleanup, has collected about $30 million. "This wouldn't have happened without you guys coming together one donation at a time," MrBeast said in a Team Seas video. This isn't the first time MrBeast has done good things for the environment by using his huge following. Team Seas came after Team Trees, which reached its goal to plant 20 million trees back in 2020. On July 16th, MrBeast put out a video saying they cleaned up all the trash, and the number of people who joined in was huge. People from more than 200 countries and places helped raise money, volunteer, spread the word, and make different types of online stuff like videos and games. All this got people to look at the TeamSeas website where they could give money and pick how many pounds of trash they wanted taken out of the oceans. Famous Youtuber Mr. Beast ( Source: Google Images) The Sole Purpose At Last ~ The biggest YouTuber on the planet has pulled off an amazing crowdfunding stunt. They got a bunch of top internet stars to help raise money and get people to volunteer to clean up the oceans. The cool thing is, that this shows the internet can be used to do good stuff; you just need to spread the word about it. It's like any other thing humans do - we can use it to make things better if we try.

19 Jul 2024

Global News

Incredible ‘Walking Tree’ is Named New Zealand’s 2024 Tree of the Year!

A lone tree that looks like it’s out for a stroll has been crowned the 2024 Tree of the Year in New Zealand. This remarkable Metrosideros robusta, often known as The Walking Tree, "walked away" with the New Zealand Arboricultural Association's award. Its peculiar leg-style trunks, which are situated beside a graveyard on the South Island, instantly evoke Tolkien's sentient walking Ents from the fantasy trilogy The Lord of the Rings. The Association said in a statement, "Bryan Bell nominated The Walking Tree, highlighting its remarkable form and captivating presence." "This tree is a striking natural wonder, with its twin trunks stretched as if in mid-stride—and seemingly wearing high heels." Unlike other trees, the walking palm tree doesn't have a typical trunk. Instead, it has a series of stilt roots that are shallowly planted in the ground. These roots allow the tree to sway back and forth in the wind, giving it the appearance of walking. Out of the six finalists, the magnificent tree also referred to as the northern rātā, received 42% of the votes, making it the obvious winner. It is already recorded on The New Zealand Tree Registry. "It remains a mystery just how long this windswept walker has been strutting its stuff north of Karamea," the Association states about the age of the tree. The northern rātā is one of the tallest flowering trees in New Zealand, with a lifespan of up to a millennium. It starts as an epiphyte that resembles a plant that grows on another host tree high in the forest canopy. Its roots eventually spread to the ground and eventually cover the original tree. . The northern rātā (Metrosideros robusta), nicknamed The Walking Tree, near the Karamea Cemetery in South Island, New Zealand In addition to improving our local ecosystems, trees also play a key role in "providing a sense of place for past, present, and future generations." This is the purpose of the third annual Tree of the Year campaign. According to association president Richie Hill, "The Walking Tree is a prime example of the remarkable trees that we, as New Zealanders, are fortunate to experience."

18 Jun 2024

Global News

Positive Reads

Where City Noise Meets Childhood Dreams: A Classroom Under the Flyover

Beneath the Mayapuri flyover in Kirti Nagar, west Delhi, where city sounds never cease, an extraordinary scene unfolds every morning. Around 100 young children aged 8 to 14 gather beside a metro pillar, sitting on patched grass mats amid swirling dust under the relentless sounds of trucks and the honking of impatient drivers; a small chorus of hope rises. With microphones and loudspeakers, volunteers do battle with noise to teach lessons in math, reading, and self-belief. As reported by the Times of India, thirteen-year-old Sakshi quietly expresses her father’s dream: “Papa ka sapna hai, ki main CA banu.” Nearby, 14-year-old Pinki gazes at a pole beside the flyover. “Main ise bina dare chadh sakti hoon,” she says confidently, aspiring to become a malkhamb champion. Their voices, soft yet with confidence, rise above, proving that fate does not decide their dreams. From Factory Floors to Aspirational FuturesNine-year-old Choti plays with the buckle on her worn blue bag. Her father manufactures these buckles, and her mother labors in a nearby factory. Yet Choti dreams of a different future. “Mujhe doctor banna hai,” she reflects. Eleven-year-old Radhika, her voice filled with determination, tells the volunteers she wants to be a police officer. “This class has taught me to be brave and never back down.” In this concrete shelter, ambition blossoms, children dreaming of becoming CAs, doctors, athletes, and police officers, all against a backdrop that might have otherwise crushed their hopes.Volunteers with Shared HistoriesThe teachers leading these sessions are volunteers who once walked the same path. Two are pursuing degrees in BEd, another is studying for a master’s in computer science, all returning to uplift the very community that shaped them. Twenty-one-year-old Murari Chaudhary, a BEd student, shares, “I grew up right here in this very camp… There was chaos, noise, and not much to look up to, except maybe the wrong kind of role models.” He once dreamed of joining the military. Today, he uses that same drive to teach children who, like him, once struggled to believe in themselves.Twenty-year-old Moni teaches the youngest kids. She says she had to stop studying after Class 12 because of financial problems.Bridging the Learning GapIndia’s overburdened government schools often assign one teacher to more than 60 students. Here, the flyover classroom maintains a comfortable ratio of 20–25 students per instructor, allowing for much-needed personalization and care. Many students who couldn't write their name just a year ago today shine brightly as they solve math problems with ease. Volunteers celebrate each milestone, recognizing that in environments like these, believing in oneself is half the battle won.A Bridge of Dreams, Not Just TrafficEvery day, in this humble classroom, a new hope grows. Where others see dust and noise, these educators and students see opportunity. Chalkboards appear on metro pillars, lessons echo in loudspeakers, and young faces light up with pride at each letter recognized and every problem solved. Here, community-driven education is transforming public space into a shared arena for learning and aspiration. Children learn to read and write, but more importantly, they learn that their dreams of becoming CAs, doctors, athletes, or police are not beyond reach. This initiative addresses two urgent issues: the sheer lack of personalized attention in overcrowded state schools and the emotional toll of living in underprivileged conditions. By stepping in, these young volunteers do more than teach; they give students a voice, a space, and the emotional safety to dream big.

2 Jul 2025

Positive Reads

Rise of the Robotic Teachers: Transforming Education in Kerala

In the lush green state of Kerala, education is taking a giant leap into the future. Schools are introducing AI-powered humanoid teachers, seamlessly blending tradition with technology. These robotic educators, clad in saris and equipped with advanced AI capabilities, are captivating students with their interactive and innovative teaching methods. From answering complex queries to narrating engaging stories, these humanoid teachers are proving to be more than just novel additions to classrooms—they are reshaping education itself.Meet Nova: The Sari-Clad Tech WonderNova, the humanoid teacher at Government LPGS, Punalur in Kollam district of Kerala, was introduced to an astonished group of students on November 14. Nova is powered by GPT-4o, a cutting-edge AI model, and is revolutionizing education for 74 lower primary students.The AI teacher can converse in four languages—English, Malayalam, Hindi, and Arabic—helping students improve their communication skills while fostering curiosity. Headteacher M.K. Bindu shared, “We’ve uploaded all their textbooks in PDF format, allowing Nova to answer syllabus-related questions. The children are thrilled and ask random queries, which Nova patiently addresses.”Nova's primary focus is language skills enhancement and sparking interest in technology. "By familiarizing children with AI, we are preparing them for a digital future," explained Amesh Lal, PTA president and the IT expert behind Nova’s design. Source: Google ImagesPoopy: The Interactive Classroom StarAt Virakupurakotta Government School in Thiruvananthapuram, another robotic teacher named Poopy is enchanting students. Developed by RedFox Robotics, a startup incubated at Barton Hill Government Engineering College, Poopy was designed to make learning more interactive and fun.Poopy speaks both English and Malayalam fluently, answering a barrage of student questions with ease. Biju E, a teacher, shared, “Students love interacting with Poopy. We also plan to use her to improve their communicative abilities.”What sets Poopy apart is her adaptability to different learning styles. "She customizes lessons to suit each student’s syllabus and simplifies complex concepts," said Vimun A, CEO of RedFox Robotics. Poopy’s introduction was made possible through a corporate group’s CSR initiative, demonstrating how collaborative efforts can drive innovation in education.Source: Google ImagesIris: India's Trailblazing Humanoid TeacherIris made history this year as India’s first humanoid robot introduced into the education system. Created by Makerlabs Edutech in partnership with KTCT Higher Secondary School in Thiruvananthapuram, Iris combines cutting-edge AI technology with a culturally familiar appearance, dressed in a traditional sari, to make learning more relatable and impactful.Unveiled under the 2021 NITI Aayog Atal Tinkering Lab initiative, Iris is designed to deliver interactive, multilingual lessons tailored to individual student needs. Her mobility, enabled by wheels, adds an engaging, dynamic dimension to the classroom. As a trailblazer in the Indian educational landscape, Iris is setting the stage for a transformative learning experience rooted in both tradition and innovation.Source: Google ImagesEffect on EducationThe introduction of robotic teachers in Kerala is addressing a critical challenge: the shortage of human educators. With India’s massive student population of 265 million, AI-powered robots can fill gaps while enhancing the quality of education.By incorporating AI into classrooms, schools are not just improving academic performance but also fostering a deeper understanding of technology. Students are exposed to the latest advancements, equipping them with skills crucial for navigating the modern world.Moreover, these humanoid teachers cater to diverse learning needs, offering personalized, multilingual lessons that make complex subjects more accessible. Their ability to engage students in interactive ways ensures that learning is both effective and enjoyable.Kerala’s experiment with robotic teachers is a glimpse into the future of education. As humanoid robots like Nova, Poopy, and Iris become more advanced, their potential to transform education becomes boundless.From enhancing technological literacy to bridging language barriers, these AI-powered teachers are not just tools but partners in learning. Their impact extends beyond classrooms, inspiring students to dream bigger and embrace innovation.Challenges and OpportunitiesWhile the integration of robotic teachers is a groundbreaking step, challenges remain. Budget constraints, limited accessibility in rural areas, and the need for continuous updates in AI technology are significant hurdles. However, these challenges also present opportunities for public-private partnerships and innovative funding models.As these robots evolve, incorporating advanced features like movement and computer vision, their role in education will only expand. The dream of a classroom where every child receives personalized attention and support might soon become a reality.Kerala’s robotic teachers are more than just technological marvels. By combining AI with a culturally familiar presentation, schools are creating a bridge between tradition and modernity. These humanoid teachers are not replacing human educators but augmenting their efforts, ensuring that every student has the chance to thrive in a rapidly changing world.The future of education is here, and it speaks in many languages, narrates fascinating stories, and wears a sari.

25 Nov 2024

Positive Reads

What Makes This Chhattisgarh Teacher a National Award Winner? Discover Her Inspiring Story!

On this Teachers' Day, President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Teachers Award 2024 to a teacher with special needs who works in a remote Chattisgarh community. K Sharda is presently employed in the Khedamara village's Government Pre-Secondary School. She is one of the 50 educators nationwide who have been selected to receive the esteemed prize.Her Moving Story ~ K Sharda, 35, is presently employed in a government pre-secondary school in the isolated Khedamara village nearby. She is one of just two specially-abled teachers out of the 50 to receive the National Teachers Award 2024. Sharda, a math teacher, contracted polio as a young child. Despite her physical condition, she never let it stop her from fulfilling her lifetime dream of becoming a teacher and serving her state's underprivileged pupils. Sharda was one of the fifty-two State Teacher Award recipients from the previous year. Especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, her effective use of technology and audio-visual aids in the classroom astonished her peers and benefited her students. Sharda created her website and made sure her students did not fall behind by uploading videos of her daily classes and making sure to stay in touch during the national lockdown. According to Sharda, the movies she has posted to the portal now include a variety of tools, such as cartoon characters and artificial intelligence, which she has added to enhance their features. Sharda has a vast library of more than 2,000 audiobooks, e-content, and other materials that she utilizes to support her more inventive teaching methods even as she continues to work with students in the school. (Source: Google Images) The renowned Chattisgarh educator is the author of publications on twenty different subjects, such as social studies, mathematics, oral science, G.K., and moral education. In addition, Sharda is the author of fifty stories about moral education that have been released in Hindi, English, and Chhattisgarhi Halbi. Sharda's family has always supported her, cheering her on at every turn. Savitri, her mother, expressed her happiness at her daughter's receiving acknowledgment for her hard work. She remarked, "We never treated her differently and wanted to give her the greatest education possible to help her realize her ambition. K Rajarao, Sharda's brother, claimed to have carried his sister to school on his shoulders in the past. We made an effort to support her in every manner we could. He stated that receiving such national acclaim is the highest proof of her dedication.To determine the final names of the recipients, the Department of School Education uses a three-stage selection process at the national, state, and district levels. The National Teacher Awards were established in 1958, and the regulations were updated in 2018.

6 Sep 2024

Positive Reads

Sister Nivedita: The Irish Teacher Who Fought Plague, Famine & British Rule in India with Compassion

Sister Nivedita, originally Margaret Elizabeth Noble, was an Irish educationist who dedicated her life to serving the people of India. After meeting Swami Vivekananda in 1895, she became his disciple and played a significant role in India's fight against plague, famine, and British rule. Let's delve into the remarkable journey of this compassionate and courageous woman. Early Encounter with Swami Vivekananda: In November 1895, Margaret Noble met Swami Vivekananda, a philosopher and social reformer, during his visit to London. Inspired by his teachings, she became his disciple and received the name Nivedita, meaning 'dedicated to god.' Swami Vivekananda recognized her potential and entrusted her with the task of educating Indian women. Battling the Bubonic Plague: When the bubonic plague hit Calcutta in 1898, Sister Nivedita played a pivotal role in providing relief to the affected. She organized and coordinated relief work, tirelessly aiding the underprivileged. Despite the risks involved, she nursed patients, comforted families, and raised awareness about preventive measures through speeches and handbills. Her dedication and selflessness earned her praise from the community and even the District Medical Officer. Fighting Famine and Floods: Not only did Sister Nivedita battle the plague, but she also extended her support to the victims of famine and floods in Bengal. She tirelessly worked to alleviate the suffering of those affected by these natural disasters. Her relief efforts were highly organized, and she actively involved the local community in cleaning the streets and distributing aid. Her commitment to the cause was unwavering, even when it meant sacrificing her own well-being. Joining India's Freedom Struggle: Sister Nivedita was not only a caregiver but also a freedom fighter. She actively participated in India's struggle for independence from British rule. Inspired by Swami Vivekananda's vision, she advocated for the rights of the poor and marginalized. Through her speeches and appeals for financial aid, she galvanized young Indians to join the freedom movement. Her efforts to empower the masses and fight for justice left a lasting impact on the society. Legacy and Impact: Sister Nivedita's contributions to India's history are undeniably significant. Her dedication to education, relief work, and the freedom struggle continues to inspire generations. Her belief in the power of women and the transformative potential of education shaped her mission in India. Even after her untimely death at the age of 43, her legacy lives on as a symbol of compassion, courage, and resilience. Sister Nivedita's story is one of compassion, courage, and the relentless pursuit of justice, making her an icon in India's fight for independence.

16 Feb 2024

Positive Reads

Kerala Teachers' Remarkable Contribution to Transforming Education in Bhutan

Bhutan, known as the "land of the thunder dragon," has a deeply rooted history and a unique approach to development. It is interesting to note that teachers from Kerala played a significant role in shaping Bhutan's modern education system. Through their dedication and commitment, these teachers brought about a transformative change that uplifted disadvantaged sections of society and paved the way for a brighter future. Let's delve into the story of this remarkable collaboration. Bhutan's Educational Landscape Before Reforms Before the 1960s, Bhutan's education system primarily relied on Buddhist monasteries for providing private education. While diplomatic families sent their children to India and Europe for schooling, the majority of the population depended on religious learning. However, the ruling dynasty recognized the need for modernization and initiated steps to introduce Hindi medium schools in the country. The Origin of Modern Education in Bhutan The credit for establishing the modern education system in Bhutan goes to William Mackey, a Jesuit priest, who played a pivotal role in setting up Hindi medium schools. Eventually, the third king of Bhutan, Ugyen Dorji Wangchuk, aimed to introduce English medium schools. The government approached the Jesuits of St Joseph's College in Darjeeling, India, to realize this vision. The Influence of Kerala Teachers In 1962, Lyonpo Dawa Tsering, the secretary of the Development Ministry, visited Kerala to observe its primary education system. Impressed by the quality of education, Tsering recruited 20 teachers from Kerala and brought them to Bhutan. These teachers embarked on a challenging journey, walking from village to village, and became the pioneers of Bhutan's modern education system. Building Schools and Nurturing Minds The Kerala teachers, along with the help of students and locals, worked tirelessly to build schools from scratch. With makeshift classrooms made of bamboo and straw, they created a nurturing environment for eager learners. The teachers not only imparted knowledge but also involved students in cultural activities, physical training, and drama, enriching their educational experience. The Impact of Kerala Teachers' Dedication The contribution of Kerala teachers to Bhutan's education system cannot be overstated. Their sincere teaching in isolated and challenging rural areas elevated the standards of education in interior schools and laid the foundation for Bhutan's current high standard of education. The teachers' devotion and sacrifice played a crucial role in shaping the minds of Bhutanese youth. Cross-Cultural Exchange and Ongoing Collaboration The collaboration between Kerala and Bhutan in the field of education continues to thrive. Bhutanese youth often study in Indian institutions, including Kerala, and contribute their knowledge and experiences back to Bhutan. This cross-cultural exchange has strengthened the educational ties between the two regions and further enhanced the education system in Bhutan. The story of how Kerala teachers helped transform education in Bhutan showcases the power of dedication, cross-cultural collaboration, and the impact of quality education. Through their efforts, Bhutan has achieved significant progress in literacy rates and has empowered its citizens, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The partnership between Kerala and Bhutan serves as an inspiring example for other nations to foster similar collaborations and uplift their education systems. The legacy of these teachers continues to shape the future of Bhutan, creating a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.

31 Jan 2024

Positive Reads

The Power Of Replacing 'I' With 'We' in Every Sentence!

What is the problem in thinking about the spirit of togetherness in a work culture? : The answer to this question is no . This is because we get diverse advantages and completion of any task efficiently by replacing 'I' with 'We'. Understanding the Managerial Principle~ Unity of Command: The unity of command concept of management proposes that a manager should always refer to the group as "We" in all of their communications with employees. The significance of cooperation and teamwork in accomplishing organizational objectives is emphasized by this idea.This concept states that a manager should always speak to employees as "we" rather than "I" in order to foster a sense of shared accountability and ownership. This enhances collaboration, creates a more favorable work atmosphere, and strengthens the bond between coworkers and the organization's objectives. By referring to the team as "we," the management lets the employees know that they are all members of a team that is working toward a shared objective and that their unique contributions are recognized and acknowledged. Stating The Urgency of teams working 'For Each Other': The conventional hierarchy in the workplace is changing. The prevalence of individual work in office cubicles and on manufacturing lines is declining as group work becomes more important to fulfill the demands of the 21st-century economy. Executives across industries are constructing collaborative frameworks to enhance workflows, meet evolving needs, and create more wholesome work environments. It fosters a good work atmosphere where individuals may take advantage of more opportunities and conquer more challenges, teamwork is crucial. When a project needs a wide range of expertise and is time-sensitive, businesses and organizations need cooperation the most. When collaboration is at its peak, complicated activities are completed more quickly, records are broken, professional skill sets are expanded, and workload is divided. Dynamic and long-lasting change may be achieved via integrating teamwork. Team Work Makes The Dream Work: The phrase "teamwork" instantly conjures up images of coworkers cooperating in an office. This is a rather constrained viewpoint, though. It's about fostering a feeling of community while honoring individual uniqueness. We each bring a diverse range of abilities, opinions, experiences, and backgrounds to the table because we are people. A shared aim or objective unites these, making the whole bigger than the sum of its parts. Giving them a glimpse into your plan of action, rather than simply the goal, encourages people to consider it, gives them a sense of ownership, and let them contribute to the process. "We talk a lot about hope, helping and teamwork. Our whole message is that we are more powerful together." — Victoria Osteen

30 Jan 2024

Positive Reads

Silence the Snores: Follow These Expert-Approved Tips to Get a Peaceful Night's Sleep

Snoring can be a frustrating and disruptive problem, not just for the person snoring but also for their partner or anyone else sharing a sleeping space. Fortunately, there are several methods that can help reduce or even eliminate snoring altogether. One of the most effective ways to stop snoring is to sleep on your side instead of your back. This can prevent the tongue and soft tissues in the throat from collapsing and obstructing the airway, which is a common cause of snoring. Another option is to elevate the head of your bed by a few inches, which can help keep the airway open. For those who are overweight or obese, losing weight can also be a game-changer when it comes to snoring. Excess weight can put pressure on the airway and make it more likely to collapse during sleep, leading to snoring. By shedding those extra pounds, many people see a significant reduction in snoring. Avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed can also help reduce snoring, as they can relax the muscles in the throat and lead to more frequent and intense snoring. Instead, try drinking a warm cup of herbal tea or taking a relaxing bath to unwind before bedtime. Finally, if these methods don't work, there are several devices and treatments available that can help reduce snoring. These include nasal strips, oral appliances that help keep the airway open, and even surgery in some cases. By taking steps to address snoring, individuals can enjoy more restful and peaceful sleep, as well as improve their overall health and well-being.

5 Apr 2023

Positive Reads

5 Eating Habits That Help You Sleep Good

Getting a good night's sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. However, many people struggle with falling and staying asleep. One factor that can impact sleep quality is diet. Certain foods can disrupt sleep while others can promote it. Here are five food habits that can help improve your sleep: Limit caffeine intake: Caffeine is a stimulant that can disrupt sleep. It is found in coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate. It is best to avoid caffeine in the evening, and if you must consume it, try to do so at least six hours before bedtime. Eat a light dinner: Eating a heavy, high-fat meal close to bedtime can cause discomfort and indigestion, making it difficult to fall asleep. A light dinner consisting of protein, vegetables, and whole grains is recommended. Incorporate tryptophan-rich foods: Tryptophan is an amino acid that promotes sleep by increasing the production of melatonin. Foods high in tryptophan include turkey, chicken, fish, tofu, nuts, and seeds. Avoid alcohol: While alcohol can help you fall asleep faster, it disrupts the sleep cycle, causing poor quality sleep. It is best to avoid alcohol before bed. Have a bedtime snack: A small snack before bed can promote sleep by stabilizing blood sugar levels. A combination of complex carbohydrates and protein, such as whole-grain crackers and cheese or apple slices with almond butter, can help induce sleep. In conclusion, incorporating these food habits can improve sleep quality and promote overall health and well-being. Additionally, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and engaging in relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, can also aid in a good night's sleep.

9 Feb 2023

Positive Reads

Munnar: The Kashmir of South India

Munnar is a hill station located in the state of Kerala, India, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The lush green landscapes and rolling hills covered in tea plantations, make it a peaceful and serene getaway from the bustling city life. One of the most prominent features of Munnar is its tea plantations, which date back to the colonial era. Visitors can take a stroll through the tea gardens, learn about the process of tea production and enjoy a cup of tea surrounded by breathtaking views. Additionally, Munnar is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including exotic species of birds and animals that can be seen at the Eravikulam National Park. Apart from its natural beauty, Munnar also boasts of a rich cultural heritage, with a number of historic churches, temples and other colonial structures. For those interested in trekking, there are several trails in the area that offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. For adventure enthusiasts, there are a variety of activities like paragliding, kayaking, rock climbing and more that can be enjoyed in Munnar. Visitors can also indulge in traditional South Indian cuisine and experience the local culture by visiting the nearby villages. Accommodation options in Munnar are abundant, ranging from budget-friendly homestays to luxurious resorts, offering all the modern amenities one could ask for. Munnar is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway or an adventurous escape.

3 Feb 2023

Positive Reads

5 Ways to Achieve a Healthy Metabolism

Metabolism is the process by which your body converts food into energy. Having a good metabolism can help you maintain a healthy weight and have more energy throughout the day. Here are five ways you can boost your metabolism: Eat enough protein: Protein takes more energy to digest than carbohydrates or fat, so including protein-rich foods in your diet can help boost your metabolism. Drink green tea: Green tea is high in antioxidants called catechins, which have been shown to increase metabolism. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water can help boost metabolism, as your body uses energy to bring the water to body temperature. Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can slow down metabolism, so it's important to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Strength training: Building muscle mass can increase metabolism, as muscle tissue burns more calories at rest than fat tissue. Incorporating strength training into your workout routine can help boost metabolism. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or exercise routine. By incorporating these habits into your lifestyle, you can help support a healthy metabolism and maintain a healthy weight.

8 Jan 2023

Positive Reads

This Amazing Japanese Technique Helps One To Get Wood Without Cutting a Tree!

The Japanese technique of Daisugi is an eco-friendly wood production method through which wood is produced without cutting down trees entirely. The term ‘Daisugi’ roughly translates to ‘Platform Cedar’ where the trunk of the tree remains intact while the shoots are pruned to sprout new trees in its place. Daisugi is a shining example of sustainable forestry and this method has been in practice in Kyoto, Japan for around 700 years. The plants are grown on cedar trees as giant bonsai. The pruning of shoots gives rise to new trees which grow straight and in a uniform manner that’s suitable for construction purposes. This process is more cost-effective than the standard way of entirely felling trees as there is no delay in growing a plant again and becoming a tree. Daisugi type wood is highly sought after in the market because it is more flexible and durable than other forms of wood. If applied properly, the method can stop deforestation and provide the perfectly round, straight timber known as taruki, which is used for the roofs of Japanese teahouses. Around Japan, there are also smaller, decorative daisugi, although keeping them up can be costly and time-consuming. Daisugi seems to have become a part of Japanese culture as it is reflected in their paintings and other art forms.

1 Dec 2022

Positive Reads

Celebrating the Noble Profession of Teachers on Teachers Day

“Teaching is a very noble profession that shapes the character, caliber and future of an individual. If people remember me as a good teacher, that will be the biggest honor for me” These words uttered by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam signify the profound influence that teachers have in our lives. In India, 5 September is celebrated as Teachers Day to acknowledge the immense contribution of teachers towards mankind because, in the process of teaching, they actually shape and mould a child to become responsible and fruitful individuals that go on to build a nation. History of Teachers Day September 5 is the birth anniversary of India’s second President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. He was also a great philosopher, statesman and a renowned teacher who believed that teachers should be the best minds in the country. In 1962, when he became the second President of India, his doting students wanted to celebrate his birthday on 5 September as ‘Radhakrishnan’s Day’. However, Dr. Radhakrishnan insisted that the day be celebrated instead as ‘Teachers Day.’ Since then, 5 September is celebrated as Teachers Day throughout India. Teachers Day Celebrations Teachers Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm and fervor in our country. Students begin preparations days in advance to cheer and honour their teachers on this day. Cultural programmes are held in educational institutions where students perform skits, dance and sing for their teachers to make them feel special. Some schools and colleges award their outstanding teachers on this day. Sometimes, teachers are also made to participate in games and other activities hosted by the students while at other times, students themselves get into the shoes of teachers to experience the responsibility of teaching. There is no doubt that teachers have an important and tough job to do as they need to be patient, persuasive, caring and empathetic towards their students so that they are shaped into responsible, productive and successful citizens. Therefore, teachers deserve all due respect and honour for taking up this noble profession and this day gives an opportunity to thank them for their efforts and dedication towards their students. It is said that if there were no teachers, all other professions would not exist. Let us make this day special for our teachers. Happy Teachers Day! Image Source: Tentaran

4 Sep 2019

Positive Reads

Lord Ganesha A Great Teacher In Our Lives

Ganesha is the lord of beginnings. He is worshipped to remove obstacles from our lives and bring in prosperity, good fortune and success. Today on the day of Visarjan we wave our Ganesh with heavy hearts. Lord Ganesha a great teacher in our lives. His life is full of teachings and imparts many important life lessons to us.. Lord Ganesha wrote Mahabharata while Valmiki was reciting it. In the middle of writing, Ganesha’s pen broke. At this point, Ganesha broke his tusk and used it to write Mahabharata. This incident teaches us to complete our work come what may and never leave it unfinished. Lord Ganesha has large ears. That’s his way of teaching us to be a good listener. Ganesha had to once encircle the world three times to win a race. Instead, he encircled his parents - Shiva and Parvati. With this gesture, he teaches us to respect our parents and treat them like they mean the world to us. Ganesha’s vehicle mouse is so tiny, still, he carries the lord’s weight. This teaches us to never underestimate anyone. Possessing such a huge size, elephants are one of the strongest animals. Still, they always remain calm and composed. Lord Ganesha’s elephant head teaches us to never misuse power. Lord Ganesha once felt humiliated by the moon because the latter made fun of the lord. Ganesha cursed him that humans will never look at him again. Frightened, the moon asked the lord to take back the curse and forgive him. Lord Ganesha took pity on the moon and forgave him instantly. This anecdote teaches us to forgive our enemies. Lord Ganesha’s posture of one leg on the throne and the other one on the ground implies that one should maintain a balance between worldly desires and spiritual knowledge. Lord Ganesha is pot-bellied and does not look physically strong. It’s his wisdom which makes him all powerful. The important lesson here is that intelligence counts more than one’s physical might. These are just some of the lessons that we can learn from Lord Ganesha’s life. The list is endless. Lord Ganesha is an epitome of strength, humility, power, newness, prosperity and good fortune. Let’s pray to him, learn from him and try to imbibe his super qualities, to become better and successful human beings and say, "Pudhachya varashi lavakar ya"

21 Sep 2018

Positive Reads

The Super Cuppa Of Goodness

While tea is the most consumed beverage in the world, 78 percent people consume black tea while only 20 percent people drink green tea. Usually, tea is brewed from the dried leaves of the Camellia sinensis bush. The level of oxidation of the leaves determines the type of tea. Green tea is one of the less processed types of tea and is made from unoxidized leaves. It is therefore rich in most antioxidants and beneficial polyphenols. Following are some of the health benefits of green tea. Boosts immunity: Various factors lead to the generation of free radicals and oxidants in our body which can hasten aging and cause chronic and degenerative illness. Green tea which is rich in antioxidants known as polyphenols, particularly catechins helps to fight free radicals thus reducing the damage and preventing illness. Prevents heart disease: Studies have revealed that green tea consumption significantly reduces blood pressure levels- both systolic and diastolic. The brew also keeps in check low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol which is responsible for clogging arteries. Fights cancer: The flavenoids and catechins in green tea possess anti-cancer and anti-tumorigenic qualities. Regular intake of green tea can protect against oral, lung, breast, digestive tract, bladder and prostate cancers. Another study has proved that epigallocatechin-3-galate (EGCG) could enhance the efficacy of some cancer drugs. Improves memory: The above-mentioned compound EGCG and L-theanine present in green tea support the production of new brain cells. EGCG enhances the ability to learn and retain information. Polyphenols in green tea protect one against neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Checks diabetes: In India, there is a growing incidence of diabetes and let me share with you that green tea helps to regulate blood sugar. Polyphenols in green tea make the cells that metabolize glucose more reactive to insulin. A study by Harvard School of Public Health has stated that long-term green tea drinkers had a fewer chance of becoming diabetic then people who drank it less. Strengthens Teeth: The antioxidants in green tea prevent the growth of foul bacteria that cause periodontal disease. It thus helps to keep your pearly whites clean and healthy. So, go ahead and reach out for your cup of green tea for its life-enhancing qualities.

5 Jan 2018

Positive Reads

Lord Ganesha a great teacher in our lives

Ganesha is the lord of beginnings. He is worshipped to remove obstacles from our lives and bring in prosperity, good fortune and success. Today on the day of Visarjan we wave our Ganesh with heavy hearts. Lord Ganesha a great teacher in our lives. His life is full of teachings and imparts many important life lessons to us.. Lord Ganesha wrote Mahabharata while Valmiki was reciting it. In the middle of writing, Ganesha’s pen broke. At this point, Ganesha broke his tusk and used it to write Mahabharata. This incident teaches us to complete our work come what may and never leave it unfinished. Lord Ganesha has large ears. That’s his way of teaching us to be a good listener. Ganesha had to once encircle the world three times to win a race. Instead, he encircled his parents - Shiva and Parvati. With this gesture, he teaches us to respect our parents and treat them like they mean the world to us. Ganesha’s vehicle mouse is so tiny, still he carries the lord’s weight. This teaches us to never underestimate anyone. Possessing such a huge size, elephants are one of the strongest animals. Still, they always remain calm and composed. Lord Ganesha’s elephant head teaches us to never misuse power. Lord Ganesha once felt humiliated by the moon because the latter made fun of the lord. Ganesha cursed him that humans will never look at him again. Frightened, the moon asked the lord to take back the curse and forgive him. Lord Ganesha took pity on the moon and forgave him instantly. This anecdote teaches us to forgive our enemies. Lord Ganesha’s posture of one leg on the throne and the other one on the ground implies that one should maintain a balance between worldly desires and spiritual knowledge. Lord Ganesha is pot bellied and does not look physically strong. It’s his wisdom which makes him all powerful. The important lesson here is that intelligence counts more than one’s physical might. These are just some of the lessons that we can learn from Lord Ganesha’s life. The list is endless. Lord Ganesha is an epitome of strength, humility, power, newness, prosperity and good fortune. Let’s pray to him, learn from him and try to imbibe his super qualities, to become better and successful human beings and say,"Pudhachya varashi lavakar ya" ,

5 Sep 2017

Positive Reads

Lord Krishna’s teachings: solutions to crossroads of life

If you win battle in your mind, you have already won the battle in real life. When the great warrior Arjuna was about to start the battle, he summoned to inaction. He was at a crossroad as to how can he fight with his uncles and cousins and what is the point of winning the battle when half of his family will be dead. At this point of time Lord Krishna guided Arjuna that motivated him to act and believe that his actions were righteous. His teachings, in the form of 700 verses forms the great Bhagvad Gita that is the best guide for our life. Many management and business schools have it included in the syllabus. Let’s get enlightened by some of his teachings. Believe in your actions Whatever actions you do, may it be charity or a sacrifice, it is futile if you don’t believe in your deeds. To get ready for something is to truly believe in your actions. If you perform an action without trying to justify it or draw extra conclusions, that is when you are doing it right. Act of conviction subsequently leads to right decisions. Be ready to accept change Change is the only constant. Not only do things and environment around us change, but people, relationships and commitments change with time. Also when you retrain yourself from changing your thoughts, you go into a state of inactivity. Trying new ways and methods helps us to be alert and think all possibilities making our decision simpler. Accepting the change is also important. Accept and adapt to the changes and you will see many problems of your lives dissolving. Set high standards People follow legends. When you have decided your goals and course of actions, try settings various benchmarks for yourselves. Try attaining mastery in your work and keep challenging yourself with new things that will improvise your actions. Make your own definition of success, compete with self and raise your bar so that people look upon you as a leader and a great achiever. Keep inspiring and helping others. Don’t expect rewards This is the very famous teaching of Lord Krishna. You have control over your actions but not over your results. You can’t claim good results. Don’t let the rewards of your actions motivate you. It must be immaterial to you. Focus on your work and never stop or discontinue your work despite of success or failure. Concentrate on present life The entire world is governed by the supreme power the Almighty. One must not cry for the past and worry about the future. Just focus on your present and so your part. Crying over your past and expecting a lot from future will not allow you focus on your present. Learn to let go and live with no expectations and demands. Listen to your conscience Nothing in this world is truer than your inner voice that is the voice of conscience. Our mind is very biased. It analyses what is good and bad and in case we overthink it will deduce bad out of good thins too. But our conscience is unbiased. But unfortunately we don’t listen to it as it’s very frank and sometimes very rude, and it doesn’t answer as per your mental comfort. You can hear your inner voice when you are calm and not under the influence of any greed and advantage or circumstances.

29 Apr 2017

Positive Reads

The Whys and Hows

International Tea Day Special: How Chai Made Its Way Into Your Every Morning Sip!

Does your morning also begin with that one steaming cup of chai, sweet, strong and kind of magical? Maybe it’s your cure for Monday blues, your rainy-day muse, or your excuse to gossip with a friend. But have you ever wondered where this beloved brew came from? How did a foreign leaf become India’s most emotional beverage? Believe it or not, the chai we swear by wasn’t always ours. It travelled across borders, changed hands, got a little colonial nudge, and then Indians added their own spice, literally. Before we dive deep into the Chai, let’s rewind a few centuries and stir in some history.The British Brew & the Indian Twist! So here's the tea, quite literally. Tea didn’t grow in India. It started in China, where emperors sipped it like royalty since 2737 BCE. The British got hooked on it much later and by the 1600s, tea was their national obsession. But sourcing it from China was pricey and problematic. So, like any colonial superpower with a business agenda, they looked towards India. Turns out, Assam’s wild tea plants were perfect for cultivation. Thus began the British tea plantations, not for Indians to drink, but to export and profit.But Indians being Indians - threw in ginger, cardamom, milk, sugar, and created masala chai. The British winced, but Indians were sold. That’s when chai stopped being their beverage and started becoming ours.Tea, Chai, and the Curious Case of the ‘Chai Latte’The word chai comes from the Hindi “chai,” which came from the Mandarin word chá. Meanwhile, “tea” came to Europe from the coastal Chinese dialect te. So when your neighborhood café in New York or Paris sells “chai tea,” they’re basically selling “tea tea.” Confused? Today, chai has travelled far beyond Indian kitchens and railway stations. In the West, it’s been rebranded as “chai latte,” usually served in tall cups with oat milk, a sprinkle of cinnamon. While we’re all for global appreciation, nothing beats a roadside kulhad of masala chai, served piping hot and stirred with stories. Where the Magic Grows: India’s Tea Heartlands! India isn’t just a tea lover, it’s a tea producer. From the misty slopes of Darjeeling to the sun-soaked fields of Assam and the breezy Nilgiris in the South, tea plantations dot our landscapes like leafy poetry. But these scenic estates have a layered past. Under British rule, laborers worked in harsh conditions, and much of the profit left the country. Today, India is the second-largest tea producer in the world, and chai is no longer just a drink, it’s an emotion. Final Sip! So this International Tea Day, take a moment. Hold your cup of chai, whether it's masala, cutting, adrak, or even a frothy chai latte and remember: this isn’t just a drink. It’s a journey across continents, through empires, languages, plantations, and generations. Chai didn’t just arrive in India, it bloomed here, got spiced up with identity, and became a beloved ritual in every Indian life. Sip slowly. You’re drinking history.

21 May 2025

The Whys and Hows

Spilling the Truth: India’s Original Tea Makers Weren’t the British!

When you think of tea, do you picture fancy British folks sipping from tiny cups, all pinkies up? Well, hold on to your chai because India’s tea story didn’t start with the British, it was already brewing centuries before, thanks to the Singpho tribe! These tea geniuses from Northeast India were roasting, sun-drying, and smoking tea leaves in bamboo tubes way before the world made tea a morning ritual. Their legendary brew, “Phalap”, packed a bold, smoky punch long before fancy teapots existed. In fact, when British adventurer Robert Bruce “discovered” Assam tea in the 1820s, he was really just late to the party, the Singphos had been perfecting it for generations! So, next time you sip on your chai, remember, it’s not just a drink, it’s a sip of ancient, indigenous brilliance! Meet the Singphos: India’s Original Tea Bosses!Picture this: centuries ago, deep in the lush green forests of Northeast India, the Singpho tribe was already living their best tea life. These guys weren’t just casual sippers, they were full-on tea artisans. Their process? Super cool! They roasted tea leaves in metal pans until they turned brown, sun-dried them for days, stuffed them into bamboo tubes, and smoked them over a fire. After a week, BOOM, out came their unique smoky-flavored tea, known as Phalap.And the Singphos were doing this as early as the 12th century! That’s long before the British East India Company even thought about conquering tea lands.Bamboo, Fire & A Lot of Flavor: Tea with a Twist!Now, let’s talk about how tea might have been discovered (spoiler: it wasn’t by some European explorer). According to Singpho folklore, two brothers were trekking through the forests when exhaustion hit them hard. Desperate for energy, they grabbed some random leaves, chewed on them, and, bam! Instant refreshment! That mystery leaf? You guessed it-tea.Even the name Phalap has an interesting backstory. The word pha (or kha) means "what" and lap means "leaf", so it’s basically like saying, “What’s this leaf?” Classic case of accidental genius!Wait, So How Did the British Get Involved?Fast forward to the early 19th century—Britain was desperate to break China’s tea monopoly. Enter Robert Bruce, an adventurer who, with the help of Singpho chief Bessa Gaum (or Bisa Gam), stumbled upon wild tea plants thriving in Assam. He was stunned—tea had been growing naturally in India all along!Soon after, another Singpho chief, Nigro La, started the first proper tea plantation in Assam. The British, sensing a golden opportunity, swooped in, took notes, and eventually turned tea cultivation into a billion-dollar industry. But let’s be real, the foundation was already laid by the Singphos!Hold Up, There’s Another Tribe in the Tea Game?Yup! The Tangsas, another indigenous community from Arunachal Pradesh, are also original tea makers. They still practice their age-old bamboo tea-making traditions, just like the Singphos. Their tea is slow-roasted over an open fire, making it naturally preservable for YEARS (talk about a life hack!). Oh, and it has a unique smoky flavor that makes your regular chai feel basic.Why This Matters (Besides Making You Feel Like a Tea Nerd)Today, with mass production taking over, there’s a real push to preserve the Singpho and Tangsa tea traditions. Enthusiasts, historians, and even tea lovers like us are realizing that India’s tea story isn’t just about fancy plantations, it’s about centuries-old wisdom, unique flavors, and culture-rich traditions that deserve way more credit!So next time you sip your chai, take a moment to appreciate India’s real tea pioneers, the Singphos and Tangsas who were brewing the good stuff long before anyone else even knew what tea was! A cup of tea isn’t just warmth in your hands, it’s a hug from history!

25 Mar 2025

The Whys and Hows

What Different 'Ganesha Sculptures' are Trying To Tell Us?

"Ganesh Sculpture," is a brilliant tribute to the protector of impediments and giver of wisdom and prosperity. This work of art, which was painstakingly created in tinted blown glass, combines deep symbolism with a streamlined and modern silhouette. The sleek and simple contours of the modern design give any area a hint of contemporary refinement. Giving the "Ganesh Sculpture" as a gift would brighten not only your surroundings but also the lives of those you care about. It is more than just a work of art; it is a significant representation of blessings.One of the most well-known and extensively worshipped deities in Hinduism is Ganesha, often referred to as Ganapati or Vinayaka. Often called upon before commencing any auspicious endeavor or ritual, he is revered as the king of beginnings and the removal of barriers. There are many different shapes and positions for the Ganesh marble murti, and each has its own significance and symbolism. We shall examine the meaning of many Ganesha marble moorti positions in this article.The Hindu god Marble Ganpati Murti, who is worshipped as the remover of impediments and the Lord of wisdom and knowledge, is commonly shown in paintings and sculptures in a variety of seated positions. Understanding the significance and meaning of each of the Ganpati marble murti postures helps facilitate our connection to Lord Ganesha's heavenly attributes. Sitting Poses ~ (Source: Google Images)One of the most well-liked sitting poses for Lord Ganesha is called Padmasana, or Lotus Pose. With his hands clasped over his knees or his shattered tuskin, the Ganesh Marble Murti, Lord Ganesha is seated cross-legged in this posture. Padmasana is a symbol of tranquility, inner serenity, and achieving spiritual enlightenment.Another common sitting position is called "Lalitasana," which shows the Ganesha marble moorti with one leg folded and the other lying on the floor. This position suggests comfort and relaxation. Another sitting pose called "Utkut akasana" depicts Ganesha with both legs folded and knees pointed outward. For their adherents, this stance stands for power and stability, among other things.Hand Gestures ~ (Source: Google Images)Many different hand movements, or "mudras," are used to describe the Ganesh ji marble murti. Each mudra has a specific meaning. The "abhaya mudra," which shows Ganesha with his right hand raised in a protective and blessing gesture, is the most widely used mudra. This mudra is a symbol of bravery and confidence. The "varada mudra," another mudra, shows Ganesha with his right hand down in a helpful and giving gesture. This mudra represents generosity and plenty. The hand motions made by the Ganesh Marble Murti have profound spiritual and symbolic meanings, serving as a reminder of the divine attributes we can strive for in our lives.Connecting with these gestures not only helps us understand and appreciate Lord Ganpati Murti Marble and his teachings better, but it also provides us with inspiration and guidance for our own spiritual journey.Decoding Facial Expressions ~(Source: Google Images)Ganesha is often portrayed with a range of looks on his face, each signifying something different. The most widely used expression is the "prasanna," or "smiling," which stands for joy, contentment, and happiness. Another term that means "upward" is "urdhva," which represents Ganesha with his boot lifted. This phrase represents aspiration, tenacity, and advancement. Another typical expression of Lord Ganesha is the Samadhi, or meditation expression. The half-closed eyes of Lord Ganesha represent inner tranquility, composure, and intense meditation. The deep spiritual and symbolic implications found in Lord Ganesha's face expressions serve as a reminder of the divine characteristics we might strive for in our life.We as readers can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Lord Ganesha and his teachings by connecting with beautiful marble murti ganesh expressions. We can also get inspiration and advice for our own spiritual journeys.Dancing Poses ~(Source: Google Images)Marble moortis, or statues of Lord Ganesha in various dancing stances, are commonly found. Every devotee's interpretation of the meaning of each ganpati stance is unique, and understanding the enigmas around them can enhance our appreciation and understanding of Lord Ganesha. One of the most popular Ganesha dance positions of the white marble ganpati murti is Nritya Ganapati. In this image, Lord Ganesha is depicted dancing while holding a variety of musical instruments in his extended leg and bowed leg. According to legend, this posture symbolizes Lord Ganesha, the Lord of Dance and Music, who encourages creativity and disperses joy and happiness across the globe. Another dynamic and strong dancing stance of Lord Ganesha is the Tandava Ganapati pose, in which he is pictured brandishing a variety of weapons and dancing with furious force and passion. According to legend, this position symbolizes Lord Ganesha Marble Moti, who guards the world against all dangers and difficulties as the defender of the universe. Last but not least, the Lord Ganesha dancing positions in marble moortis are not only exquisite pieces of art but also have profound symbolic value. Gaining an understanding and appreciation of these positions enables us to benefit from Lord Ganesha's teachings and develop a closer relationship with him and his celestial attributes.Emphasizing About The Accessories ~ Ganesha is often seen with a variety of objects and accouterments, each having a symbolic value. The most prevalent aspects are the "axe," which stands for the capacity to cut through obstacles, and the "Modak," or sweet, which symbolizes the sweetness of life. Two other accessories are the "snake," which symbolizes Kundalini energy and the capacity to face fear, and the "lotus," which stands for purity and spiritual enlightenment. One of the most popular symbols of Lord Ganesha is the lotus flower. The lotus flower is connected to Lord Ganesha, who is linked to wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual development. It also signifies purity, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening. Another prominent element linked to Lord Ganesha is the broken weapon. In Hindu mythology, the broken tusk represents sacrifice and serves as a reminder of Lord Ganesha's readiness to forgo his personal comfort and well-being in order to serve the needs of others. Ankusha, the elephant goad, is yet another essential Lord Ganesha memento. The goad, which alludes to Lord Ganesha's capacity to eliminate barriers and lead us toward our objectives and desires, is a symbol of mental control and direction. The Pasha, or noose, is another item connected to Lord Ganesha. The noose alludes to Lord Ganesha's capacity to help us overcome our inner struggles and negative inclinations. It also represents the power to restrain and manage undesirable thoughts and feelings.Modak, a delicious confection, is another essential Lord Ganesha accoutrement. Modak is a representation of the sweetness of knowledge and the fruit of labor, reminding us of Lord Ganesha's link with wisdom and the significance of diligence and hard work in our spiritual journey. The crescent moon is yet another important symbol connected to Lord Ganesha Marble Moorti. The crescent moon represents the growth cycle and brings to mind Lord Ganesha, who is associated with fresh starts, spiritual development, and the capacity to endure adversity. The objects and accessories of Lord Ganesha have profoundly spiritual and symbolic connotations that serve as a reminder of the divine attributes we can strive for in our daily lives. By establishing a connection with these components and accessories, we may learn more about them.Warm Takeaway ~ The several postures that Ganpati Bappa assumes symbolize different facets of the deity's nature and meanings. In Hindu devotion and ritual, each stance has a specific meaning and significance and is often employed for a range of purposes. By comprehending the meaning underlying these poses, you can have a deeper respect for the depth and complexity of Hindu mythology and spiritual beliefs.

6 Sep 2024

The Whys and Hows

Beyond Earth's Surface: New Magnetic Wave Discovered at Earth's Outer Core!

While volcanic eruptions and earthquakes serve as immediate reminders that the Earth's interior is far from tranquil, there are other, more elusive, dynamic processes at work deep beneath our feet. These sorts of mysteries are slowly been addressed by human curiosity and passionate minds! Scientists identified an entirely new sort of magnetic wave that sweeps across the outermost region of Earth's outer core every seven years using data from ESA's Swarm satellite project. This interesting discovery, announced at the ESA's Living Planet Symposium, provides a new window into a world we will never visit. Understanding the origin of the magnetic field, why it changes continually, how it interacts with the solar wind, and why it is currently weakening are all issues of interest to scientists. The majority of the magnetic field is generated by Earth's outer core's ocean of superheated, whirling liquid iron. The outer core of the Earth works like a spinning conductor in a bicycle dynamo. It produces electrical currents as well as a constantly changing electromagnetic field. These magnetic impulses from Earth's core are measured by ESA's Swarm project, which consists of three identical satellites. Other signals from the crust, seas, ionosphere, and magnetosphere are also measured. Scientists have discovered a hidden secret using data from the Swarm mission. They discovered a new form of magnetic wave sweeping across the surface of the Earth's outer core. What's more, this wave oscillates every seven years and travels westward at up to 1500 kilometers each year. Because of the rotation of the Earth, these waves align in columns along the axis of rotation. These waves' velocity and magnetic field fluctuations are most noticeable in the core's equatorial region. Nicolas Gillet, from the University Université Grenoble Alpes and lead author of the paper, said, “Geophysicists have long theorized over the existence of such waves, but they were thought to take place over much longer time scales than our research has shown.” Other comparable waves, with longer periods, are likely to exist, according to these findings, but their detection will require additional research.

21 Dec 2023

The Whys and Hows

Unlock the Power of Kitchen Scraps Through Composting

In the bustling city of Ghaziabad, terrace gardener, Manjushree Ladiya, shares her valuable guidance on transforming kitchen scraps into a garden of hope through composting. With our urban world expanding by the day, it is difficult to understand proper garbage disposal practices. It's in this battle, especially against the relentless tide of biodegradable waste, that Manjushree's wisdom shines like a beacon of hope. In her words, we find not just knowledge but a call to action, an invitation to nurture our environment with a touch of perseverance and a sprinkle of love. “Composting is not as hard as people think it is. One can easily convert their everyday kitchen waste into compost, which contains all the essential nutrients for healthy growth of plants,” she speaks about her perspective. Manjushree has been utilizing various components to create distinct varieties of compost in individual containers. Major 5 ways have been explained below: Onion and Garlic Peels: Manjushree has been gathering the onion and garlic peels in separate pots in preparation for composting. "The compost created from onion and garlic peels is rich in potassium, which is a crucial nutrient for plants," she claims. It is great for making compost and works wonders for growing chillies. Banana Peels: Banana peels, a frequent kitchen waste, are an excellent component for composting. While it is possible to compost it alongside other kitchen waste, Manjushree advises doing so for optimal outcomes. Because of its high potash content, she claims that it works well as a fertilizer for fruit trees and vegetable plants. Using Tea Leaves: She explains that it is preferable to compost spent tea leaves rather than directly adding them to plants."Tea leaf compost works best for flowering plants, especially roses, and composting improves its quality. Its development and blossoming would be accelerated by adding the compost, according to her. Manjushree continues, "You can make tea leaf compost in as little as a five-inch pot." It takes around three months to be ready, just like any other compost. Mosambi and orange Peels: She recommends processing orange peels and mosambi peels separately because they take longer to decompose. Since they are citrus fruits, their compost is a great source of the nutrients potassium, phosphate, and nitrogen needed for plant growth. Additionally, they can be utilized to create bio enzymes and liquid fertilizers. Mix Compost: Manjushree uses all the leftover kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels and greens, to create mixed compost. She advises against adding cooked items or substances to the mixture, such as oil, ghee, or salt."The compost is suitable for all types of plants and is made by adding only raw vegetable waste," she continues. She draws inspiration from a quote that fuels her commitment to work consistently: - “The ground's generosity takes in our compost and grows beauty! Try to be more like the ground.”

3 Nov 2023

The Whys and Hows

Wanderlust

Magical Adventures Await: Ride the Real-Life Hogwarts Express Through Scottish Countryside

Here's some exciting news for Potter fans! Prepare to embark on a magical adventure, not to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, but on a real-life Hogwarts Express that is full of enchantment and wonder. Running between April and October, the famous Jacobite Steam Train, affectionately known as the Hogwarts Express, weaves its way through the breathtaking Scottish countryside, offering an unforgettable experience. Although Platform 9 and ¾ at Kings Cross Station doesn’t exist, this magnificent journey commences from the picturesque Fort William station. Only a two-hour drive from Glasgow, the station boasts its own allure, promising to whisk you away to a world of fantasy and magic. Step aboard the train, and you'll be transported into the very heart of the Harry Potter movies. The Jacobite Steam Train is an exact replica of the iconic Hogwarts Express, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in their wizarding fantasies. For Potterheads seeking an even more authentic experience, the North Yorkshire Moors Historical Railway Trust operates yet another magical train. This one stops at Goathland station, the very Hogsmeade Station depicted in the movies. In Philadelphia, the enchantment continues as there is one more train like the Hogwarts Express departing from Jefferson Station. This specially themed event caters to the desires of all Harry Potter enthusiasts, promising a journey filled with magic, wonder, and unforgettable memories. So, whether you find yourself amid the stunning landscapes of Scotland, the charm of North Yorkshire, or the bustling streets of Philadelphia, let the Hogwarts Express carry you away on a spellbinding adventure that will leave you bewitched and eager for more.

20 Jul 2023

Wanderlust

Treat yourself to an exhilarating experience at one of the best tea gardens in India!

When we hear of tea gardens, It is Darjeeling in the East or Wayanad in the South that comes to our mind, but have you heard of the Temi Tea Gardens which is situated in the hills of the Himalayan state of Sikkim? One of the best tea gardens in India, the Temi Tea Garden, situated in the town of Ravangla was founded in 1969 and is well-known for its organic tea. It has been attempting to get a GI Tag for the kind of tea it produces. The state government has been hosting a festival that honors the legacy of those who introduced tea growing to Sikkim. The festival highlights the commitment and passion of the local farmers who care for the tea gardens with everlasting devotion. The Temi Tea Estate in Ravangla comes to life with the Temi Tea Autumn Festival in the second part of the year, between October and November, as the cherry blossom trees adorn the streets of Sikkim. The festival, which is also known as the Cherry Tea Festival, aims to raise awareness of the cherry blossoms and organic tea grown at this isolated estate. Tea lovers who attend this annual festival are enthralled by the adventurous activities, photographic contests, and cultural programs presented against the backdrop of the breathtaking Kanchenjunga mountain. Immerse yourself in the fine art of tasting tea as professionals lead you on a sensory tour that introduces the complex flavors and fragrances of Temi tea. Learn the nuances of tea enjoyment, from knowing the various types of tea to recognizing the qualities that make each cup a special experience. You may also take a tour of the estate and participate in the labor-intensive tea plucking process, which turns these lovely leaves into our favorite beverage. Adventure sports like paragliding, hiking, cycling, helicopter rides, jeep safaris, and zip-lining are among the thrilling experiences that the Temi Tea Autumn Festival promises. Campouts are also permitted on the tea estate. This festival promises an amazing experience that takes you on a voyage through the world of tea with its aromatic teas, stunning scenery and fascinating festivities.

25 May 2023

Wanderlust

Discovering the Secrets of the Enchanted Hills: A Tale of Adventure

Lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and sprawling tea plantations as far as the eye can see. Coonoor, the second largest hill station in the Nilgiri Hills of the Western Ghats, is a paradise on earth. It is the perfect place to experience the sheer beauty of nature in all its glory. As I set out to explore the hills of Coonoor, I was mesmerized by the serene atmosphere and the stunning views of the Nilgiri Hills and Catherine Falls. The trekking expeditions into the Nilgiris were calling out to me, and I couldn't wait to explore Lamb's Rock, one of the most popular trekking locations just 9 km from Coonoor. Perched at an altitude of 1856 m, Coonoor is the second largest hill station in Tamil Nadu in the Nilgiri Hill range. Sim's Park, with its beautiful bird species like bulbuls, babblers, and robins, was a sight to behold. The sound of their chirping was music to my ears in the otherwise silent Coonoor Hills. I made sure to visit Lamb's Rock, Lady Caning's Seat and Dolphin's Nose, the other attractions of Coonoor Hills. The annual Coffee Festival and Fruit & Vegetables events added to the excitement, and I was glad to be a part of them. The Toy Train ride through Coonoor Hills was a mesmerizing experience, providing a kaleidoscopic view of the region to the tourists. As I sipped on the famous Nilgiri tea, I marveled at the history of Coonoor. The place was set up as a summer retreat and sanatorium to treat sick European patients during the early 19th century by John Sullivan, who belonged to the East India Company. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway was also set up to make travel to the hill station easier. I realized that Coonoor is not just a hill station but a place where nature thrives, and history blends seamlessly with modernity. As I bid farewell to this enchanting place, I knew I would be back to experience its beauty and serenity once again.

1 Apr 2023

Wanderlust

A Natural Wonderland: Witness a Spectacular Carpet of Colorful Flowers in Full Bloom

Kaas Plateau, also known as the Kaas Pathar, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Satara district, Maharashtra, India. It is a beautiful highland plain located at an altitude of 1,200 meters above sea level and is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty, stunning wildflowers, and unique biodiversity. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world flock to this destination to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the plateau. The Kaas Plateau is spread over an area of approximately 10 square kilometers and is situated amidst the Sahyadri range of mountains. It is home to over 850 species of flowering plants, including many endemic and rare species that are not found anywhere else in the world. The area is also a natural habitat for a variety of birds, insects, and animals. The best time to visit the place is during the monsoon season, between August and September, when the plateau transforms into a carpet of colorful wildflowers. Visitors can witness a mesmerizing view of the flowers in full bloom, creating a surreal and picturesque landscape. The sight of the plateau covered in pink, purple, yellow, and white flowers is truly a sight to behold. Kaas Plateau is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to witness the beauty of wildflowers in full bloom. Its stunning landscapes, unique biodiversity, and natural beauty make it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Maharashtra.

27 Feb 2023

Wanderlust

Global Inspirations

This School Teacher’s Unique Act Makes a Tremendous Impact

A new activity called 'The Baggage Activity' tried by an English Language Arts teacher at a middle school in Oklahoma made a profound impact on her as well as her students who were moved to tears. The teacher Karen Wunderlich asked the kids what it meant to have baggage. The students responded that baggage is something that you carry on your shoulders and it is hurtful. Then she told the students to write down on a piece of paper all the baggage that they were carrying – whatever was bothering them, hurting them or what was heavy on their heart. She insisted that no names should be mentioned and then asked them to crumple the paper up and throw it across the room. She then asked each student to pick up any paper and read out its contents aloud. After each paper was read, the student who wrote it could disclose his/her identity if s/he wishes to do so. The teacher wrote on Facebook that the experience made the most impact on her in 22 years of her teaching experience. Not only was she moved to tears, but the kids opened up and shared their innermost secrets. The content of the papers included suicide, parents in prison, drugs in their family, being left by their parents, death, cancer, losing pets and so on. The kids reading the papers would cry and the tears welled up in the eyes of those who had written it. Though it was an emotionally draining day, the teacher is certain that henceforth her students will judge a little less, love a little more, and forgive a little faster. The teacher decided to hang the bag of papers on the door to remind the baggage that all carry, to remind them that they are not alone, that they are loved and that they have each other’s back. This extraordinary teacher, through the ‘baggage activity’, taught her students an important lesson in empathy which they might otherwise not have learned from any of their textbooks. Image Source: WGHP

1 Sep 2019

Global Inspirations