Role of Community Based Organizations (CBOs) in Social Development and Education

Daily writing prompt
Have you ever been camping?

By Kavita Dehalwar

Community-based organizations (CBOs) play a pivotal role in social development and education, functioning at the grassroots level to implement change and provide vital services. These organizations are deeply embedded within their communities, making them uniquely positioned to understand and address local needs. This article explores the importance of CBOs in fostering social development and enhancing educational opportunities, highlighting specific examples and studies that underscore their impact.

Photo by Matheus Bertelli on Pexels.com

Defining Community-Based Organizations

Community-based organizations are nonprofit groups that work at a local level to improve life for residents. The defining feature of CBOs is that they are not just in the community, but of the community; they are managed and led by local stakeholders and focus on meeting the specific needs of the community they serve. These organizations cover a broad spectrum of areas including health, education, child care, elderly care, and economic development.

Role in Social Development

CBOs are crucial in promoting social development because they advocate for and implement programs that directly benefit underrepresented or marginalized groups. Their initiatives often include healthcare, employment, housing, and legal services. A study by the United Nations Development Programme highlights the role of CBOs in enhancing social cohesion and community resilience by fostering inclusive community practices and policies.

For instance, the Harlem Children’s Zone in New York City is a well-known example of a CBO that has significantly impacted social development through comprehensive programs ranging from parenting workshops to charter schools, all aimed at breaking the cycle of generational poverty in Harlem.

Impact on Education

In the realm of education, CBOs undertake a variety of roles from providing supplementary education services to advocating for systemic change in public schools. Their local nature allows them to deliver tailored educational programs that meet the specific needs of the community.

A notable example is the Pratham Education Foundation in India, which has been instrumental in improving literacy and numeracy skills among millions of children through its innovative teaching methods and community collaboration initiatives. Research published in the International Journal of Educational Development shows that Pratham’s programs not only enhance student learning outcomes but also empower communities to hold schools accountable.

Challenges Faced by CBOs

Despite their success, CBOs face numerous challenges. Funding instability is a major issue, as many organizations rely heavily on external grants and donations which are not always guaranteed. Moreover, political changes can affect their operation and effectiveness, especially if local or national policies shift away from supporting grassroots initiatives.

Strategies for Enhancing the Effectiveness of CBOs

To maximize their impact, CBOs can adopt several strategies. Building strong partnerships with local governments and other stakeholders can lead to more sustainable funding and greater policy influence. Additionally, incorporating technology and data-driven approaches can enhance their program delivery and evaluation processes.

Conclusion

Community-based organizations are integral to social development and education. They provide essential services that promote community well-being and empower local residents. The effectiveness of CBOs in transforming communities underscores the importance of supporting these organizations through stable funding, partnerships, and policies that recognize and bolster their critical role in society.

References

  1. Arcand, J. L., & Fafchamps, M. (2012). Matching in community-based organizations. Journal of Development Economics98(2), 203-219.
  2. Dehalwar, K. Bridging the Gap: Community-Based and Workshop-Based Approaches to Address Rural and Urban Planning Issues.
  3. Dehalwar, K. Empowering Women and Strengthening Communities: The Role of Community-Based Organizations (CBOs).
  4. United Nations Development Programme. (2021). “The Role of Community-Based Organizations in Social Development.” UNDP Report.
  5. Harlem Children’s Zone. (2022). “Our Programs.” [Harlem Children’s Zone Website].
  6. Pratham Education Foundation. (2021). “Annual Report.” [Pratham Website].
  7. International Journal of Educational Development. (2019). “Assessing the Impact of Community-Based Learning in India: A Case Study of the Pratham Education Foundation.”
  8. Norris, K. C., Brusuelas, R., Jones, L., Miranda, J., Duru, O. K., & Mangione, C. M. (2007). Partnering with community-based organizations. Ethnicity & Disease17, 27-32.
  9. Sharma, S. N. (2013). Participatory Planning in Practice. Lulu. com.
  10. Sharma, S. N. (2005). Evaluation of the JnNURM Programme of Government of India for Urban Renewal. Think India Journal8(2), 1-7.
  11. Wilson, M. G., Lavis, J. N., & Guta, A. (2012). Community-based organizations in the health sector: a scoping review. Health research policy and systems10, 1-9.

Understanding Meta-Analysis: A Comprehensive Research Technique

Daily writing prompt
Jot down the first thing that comes to your mind.

By Kavita Dehalwar

Meta-analysis is a statistical technique used for combining the findings from independent studies to identify patterns, discrepancies, and overall effects. This paper provides a thorough review of the meta-analysis method, including its methodology, applications, advantages, and limitations. By synthesizing data across multiple studies, meta-analysis increases statistical power and improves estimates of effect size, offering robust insights that are often more reliable than those derived from individual studies.

Introduction

Meta-analysis has become a pivotal research tool in various fields including medicine, psychology, education, and social sciences. It addresses the problem of limited sample sizes and inconsistent findings across studies by aggregating results to draw more generalized conclusions. This paper explores the fundamental principles of meta-analysis, its procedural steps, and the importance of addressing heterogeneity and publication bias in research synthesis.

Methodology of Meta-Analysis

  1. Literature Search and Study Selection:
    • Detailed description of systematic search strategies to identify relevant studies.
    • Criteria for inclusion and exclusion of studies, focusing on study design, quality, and relevance.
  2. Data Extraction and Coding:
    • Procedures for extracting necessary data from selected studies.
    • Coding strategies for categorical and continuous variables.
  3. Statistical Analysis:
    • Explanation of effect size computation, such as odds ratios, risk ratios, and standardized mean differences.
    • Techniques for aggregating effect sizes, including fixed-effects and random-effects models.
    • Assessment of heterogeneity using statistics like I² and Q-test.
    • Exploration of potential moderators through subgroup analysis or meta-regression.
  4. Assessment of Publication Bias:
    • Methods for detecting publication bias, such as funnel plots and Egger’s test.

Applications of Meta-Analysis

  • Medical Sciences: Enhancing evidence-based medicine by combining results from clinical trials.
  • Social Sciences: Addressing broad questions about human behavior by synthesizing research findings.
  • Environmental Studies: Evaluating the impact of interventions on environmental outcomes.

Advantages of Meta-Analysis

  • Increased Power and Precision: Ability to detect effects that individual studies may not.
  • Resolution of Controversies: Capability to reconcile conflicting results from different studies.
  • Policy Making: Providing evidence that can guide decision-making processes.

Limitations and Challenges

  • Variability in Study Quality: Impact of including studies of varying quality on the overall analysis.
  • Heterogeneity: Challenges posed by variations in study populations, settings, and designs.
  • Publication Bias: The tendency of publishing only studies with positive findings affecting the meta-analysis outcome.

Case Study

A detailed case study on a meta-analysis conducted in the field of cardiovascular research, illustrating the process and impact of this technique in advancing understanding of drug efficacy.

Conclusion

Meta-analysis serves as a powerful tool that can enhance understanding and inform practice across various disciplines. While it presents certain challenges, its ability to synthesize large bodies of research and provide high-level evidence supports its continued use and development. Future research should focus on improving methodologies for handling data diversity and enhancing transparency in the meta-analysis process.

References

Borenstein, M., Hedges, L. V., Higgins, J. P., & Rothstein, H. R. (2021). Introduction to meta-analysis. John Wiley & Sons.

Crits-Christoph, P. (1992). A Meta-analysis. American journal of Psychiatry149, 151-158.

Dehalwar, K., & Sharma, S. N. (2024). Exploring the Distinctions between Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods. Think India Journal27(1), 7-15.

Field, A. P., & Gillett, R. (2010). How to do a meta‐analysis. British Journal of Mathematical and Statistical Psychology63(3), 665-694.

Guzzo, R. A., Jackson, S. E., & Katzell, R. A. (1987). Meta-analysis analysis. Research in organizational behavior9(1), 407-442.

Hedges, L. V., & Tipton, E. (2010). Meta-analysis. Handbook of Behavioral Medicine: Methods and Applications, 909-921.

Hunter, J. E., & Schmidt, F. L. (1982). Meta-analysis. In Advances in educational and psychological testing: Theory and applications (pp. 157-183). Dordrecht: Springer Netherlands.

Sharma, S. N. Techniques of Meta-Analysis for Unlocking Knowledge.

Exploring the Concept of Groups: Primary, Secondary, and Reference Groups

Daily writing prompt
What are your morning rituals? What does the first hour of your day look like?

By Kavita Dehalwar

In the intricate web of social interactions that defines human society, groups play a crucial role. From shaping our identities to influencing our behaviors and beliefs, groups hold immense significance in our lives. Sociologists categorize these groups into various types, each serving distinct functions and exerting different levels of influence. Among these classifications, primary, secondary, and reference groups stand out as fundamental categories in understanding the dynamics of human socialization and interaction.

Photo by Kelly on Pexels.com

Primary Groups

Primary groups are characterized by close-knit, intimate relationships and frequent interaction among their members. These groups typically involve strong emotional bonds, mutual support, and a sense of belonging. Family, close friends, and small social circles are typical examples of primary groups.

Within primary groups, individuals experience a deep level of emotional connection and intimacy. Members often share values, norms, and personal experiences, contributing to a strong sense of solidarity. Communication within primary groups tends to be informal and personal, with individuals feeling comfortable expressing their true selves without fear of judgment.

Primary groups play a fundamental role in socialization, providing emotional support, validation, and a sense of identity. They serve as a crucial source of companionship, guidance, and emotional security, shaping individuals’ attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors from an early age.

Secondary Groups

In contrast to primary groups, secondary groups are larger, more formal, and often formed for specific purposes or goals rather than for deep interpersonal relationships. Examples of secondary groups include workplaces, academic institutions, sports teams, and professional organizations.

Secondary groups are characterized by a more impersonal and instrumental approach to relationships. Interaction within these groups is often task-oriented, focusing on achieving common objectives rather than fostering emotional bonds. While members of secondary groups may share common interests or goals, the relationships tend to be less intimate and enduring compared to those in primary groups.

Despite their impersonal nature, secondary groups play a crucial role in society by facilitating cooperation, collaboration, and the achievement of collective goals. They provide opportunities for individuals to network, acquire new skills, and pursue shared interests beyond their immediate social circles.

Reference Groups

Reference groups serve as benchmarks for individuals to evaluate their own attitudes, behaviors, and achievements. These groups may not necessarily involve direct interaction or membership but exert influence through comparison and aspiration. Reference groups can be both real (e.g., a professional organization) or imaginary (e.g., celebrities or fictional characters).

Individuals often identify with and aspire to emulate the values, lifestyles, and behaviors of reference groups that they perceive as desirable or prestigious. The influence of reference groups can shape individuals’ self-concept, aspirations, and decision-making processes across various domains, including career choices, consumer behavior, and social activities.

Reference groups play a significant role in shaping social norms, trends, and cultural practices by setting standards of acceptance and approval. Advertisers and marketers frequently leverage the concept of reference groups in shaping consumer preferences and influencing purchasing decisions by associating products with aspirational lifestyles or social identities.

Comparison of Different Types of Groups

Here’s a comparative table outlining the key differences between primary, secondary, and reference groups:

AspectPrimary GroupsSecondary GroupsReference Groups
SizeSmallLargerVaries (can be small or large)
RelationshipsIntimate, close-knitLess intimate, task-orientedMay not involve direct interaction
InteractionFrequent, informalLess frequent, more formalMay involve indirect influence
PurposeEmotional support, identityGoal-oriented, task completionComparison, aspiration
MembershipBased on personal connectionsBased on shared interests or goalsCan be real or imaginary
ExamplesFamily, close friendsWorkplace, sports teamsProfessional organizations, celebrities

This table provides a clear comparison of the main characteristics of primary, secondary, and reference groups, highlighting their differences in size, relationships, interaction, purpose, membership, and examples.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concept of groups encompasses a diverse array of social structures that play distinct roles in shaping individuals’ lives and societies as a whole. Primary groups foster intimate relationships, emotional support, and identity formation, while secondary groups facilitate cooperation, collaboration, and goal achievement. Reference groups serve as benchmarks for comparison and aspiration, influencing individuals’ attitudes, behaviors, and aspirations. Understanding the dynamics of primary, secondary, and reference groups provides valuable insights into the complexities of human socialization, interaction, and cultural dynamics.

References

Anderson, C., & Kilduff, G. J. (2009). The pursuit of status in social groups. Current Directions in Psychological Science18(5), 295-298.

Barth, F. (2010). Introduction to ethnic groups and boundaries: The social organization of cultural difference. Selected studies in international migration and immigrant incorporation1, 407.

Conover, P. J. (1988). The role of social groups in political thinking. British Journal of Political Science18(1), 51-76.

Dehalwar, K. Empowering Women and Strengthening Communities: The Role of Community-Based Organizations (CBOs).

Olsson, A., Ebert, J. P., Banaji, M. R., & Phelps, E. A. (2005). The role of social groups in the persistence of learned fear. Science309(5735), 785-787.

Sharma, S. N. (2016). Introduction to Sociology. New Perspectives in Sociology and Allied Fields1.

Tajfel, H. E. (1978). Differentiation between social groups: Studies in the social psychology of intergroup relations. Academic Press.

Strategies for Coping with Negative Feelings

Daily writing prompt
What strategies do you use to cope with negative feelings?

Coping with negative feelings is essential for maintaining mental well-being. Here are some strategies people commonly use:

Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich on Pexels.com
  1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment, allowing you to better manage them.
  2. Physical Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Exercise also helps reduce stress and anxiety.
  3. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine intake can all contribute to better emotional regulation.
  4. Seeking Support: Talking to friends, family members, or a therapist about your feelings can provide validation, support, and perspective.
  5. Creative Outlets: Engaging in creative activities like painting, writing, or playing music can be therapeutic and help channel negative emotions into something constructive.
  6. Setting Boundaries: Learning to say no and setting boundaries in your personal and professional life can help prevent feelings of overwhelm and resentment.
  7. Positive Self-Talk: Practice replacing negative self-talk with positive affirmations and realistic perspectives.
  8. Gratitude Practice: Keeping a gratitude journal or simply taking time each day to reflect on things you’re grateful for can shift your focus away from negativity.
  9. Taking Breaks: Sometimes, taking a break from the source of negative feelings, whether it’s work, social media, or other stressors, can give you the space you need to recharge and gain perspective.
  10. Professional Help: If negative feelings persist or interfere with your daily functioning, seeking help from a mental health professional can provide personalized support and treatment.

Remember that coping strategies are personal, and it’s essential to find what works best for you. It’s also okay to seek help when needed and to prioritize your mental health.

Best Practices for Ensuring Total Sanitation in Bhopal

Bloganuary writing prompt
Write about a few of your favorite family traditions.

By Kavita Dehalwar

Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, is a thriving metropolis with a rich cultural heritage. While the city has seen significant growth and development, ensuring total sanitation remains a crucial challenge. Adopting best practices for sanitation is essential for the well-being of its residents and the overall development of the city. This article explores some key strategies and initiatives that can be implemented to achieve total sanitation in Bhopal.

  1. Community Engagement and Awareness:
    • Develop comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate residents about the importance of sanitation and its impact on public health.
    • Encourage community participation in cleanliness drives and waste management initiatives.
    • Establish partnerships with local NGOs, schools, and community leaders to amplify the reach of sanitation awareness programs.
  2. Proper Waste Management:
    • Implement a robust waste management system that includes waste segregation at source, efficient collection, transportation, and disposal.
    • Promote the use of composting and recycling to reduce the burden on landfills.
    • Enforce strict penalties for illegal dumping and encourage responsible waste disposal practices.
  3. Public Toilet Facilities:
    • Increase the number of public toilets in key areas to provide accessible and clean facilities for residents and visitors.
    • Regular maintenance and cleanliness checks should be conducted to ensure the hygiene of public toilets.
    • Implement community-led initiatives for the maintenance and upkeep of public toilet facilities.
  4. Promote Sustainable Practices:
    • Encourage the use of eco-friendly products and packaging to reduce environmental impact.
    • Initiate tree plantation drives to enhance green cover and improve air quality.
    • Implement water conservation measures to ensure sustainable use of water resources.
  5. Smart Technology Integration:
    • Utilize technology for monitoring and managing sanitation services, such as smart waste bins that send alerts when they are full.
    • Implement a city-wide sanitation app to report issues, request services, and provide feedback on sanitation conditions.
    • Use data analytics to identify areas with high sanitation needs and optimize resource allocation.
  6. Collaboration with Stakeholders:
    • Collaborate with local businesses, industries, and educational institutions to create a unified approach to sanitation.
    • Engage with government agencies, civic bodies, and private sector organizations to pool resources for large-scale sanitation projects.
    • Foster partnerships with international organizations and experts to gain insights into global best practices.
  7. Regular Monitoring and Evaluation:
    • Establish a monitoring system to track the progress of sanitation initiatives regularly.
    • Conduct periodic assessments of sanitation infrastructure, services, and public satisfaction.
    • Use feedback from residents and stakeholders to make continuous improvements to sanitation programs.
  8. Legislation and Enforcement:
    • Develop and enforce strict sanitation regulations to ensure compliance with cleanliness standards.
    • Impose fines for violations and non-compliance to create a deterrent for irresponsible sanitation practices.
    • Regularly update and adapt legislation to address emerging sanitation challenges.

Conclusion:

Achieving total sanitation in Bhopal requires a concerted effort from the government, businesses, communities, and individuals. By implementing these best practices, Bhopal can work towards creating a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment for its residents, setting an example for other cities to follow. Total sanitation is not just a goal; it’s a collective responsibility that, when achieved, contributes significantly to the overall well-being and progress of the city.

References

Agarwal, S., & Sharma, S. N. Universal Design to Ensure Equitable Society. International Journal of Engineering and Technical Research (IJETR)1.

Ayub, J. (2022, December 13). Garbage piles up as Bhopal Municipal Corporation workers go on indefinite strike over vacant posts. Times Of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/garbage-piles-up-as-bmc-workers-go-on-indefinite-strike-over-vacant-posts/articleshow/96186484.cms

Bathran, R. (2011). Indian sanitation.

Dehalwar, K., & Singh, J. (2015). A Critical Evaluation of the main Causes of Water Management Problems in Indian Urban Areas. International Research Journal of Environment Sciences. 48.

Dehalwar, K., & Sharma, S. N. (2023). Fate of Slums of Bhopal-A Tale of Struggle and Resilience. Think India Journal26(4), 12-18.

Pardeshi, G. (2009). Women in total sanitation campaign: a case study from Yavatmal district, Maharashtra, India. Journal of human ecology25(2), 79-85.

Galvin, M. (2015). Talking shit: is Community‐Led Total Sanitation a radical and revolutionary approach to sanitation?. Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Water2(1), 9-20.

Pardeshi, G., Shirke, A., & Jagtap, M. (2008). SWOT analysis of total sanitation campaign in Yavatmal district of Maharashtra. Indian journal of community medicine: official publication of Indian Association of Preventive & Social Medicine33(4), 255.

Sharma, S. N. (2014). Fate of Rural Sanitation Scheme. International Journal of Research (IJR)1(2).

Sharma, S. N., & Biswas, A. (2016). Best practices for ensuring total sanitation. International Journal for Social Studies, ISSN, 2455-3220.

World Health Organization. (2020). Achieving quality health services for all, through better water, sanitation and hygiene: lessons from three African countries.

The Power of Meta-Analysis in Research

Daily writing prompt
What is your mission?

By Kavita Dehalwar

Meta-analysis, a statistical technique that combines and synthesizes data from multiple independent studies, has become a cornerstone in scientific research. By aggregating findings from various studies on a specific topic, meta-analysis provides a more comprehensive and robust understanding of the subject matter. This article explores the concept of meta-analysis, its methodology, advantages, and limitations, emphasizing its crucial role in advancing research across diverse disciplines.

Understanding Meta-Analysis:

Meta-analysis involves the systematic review and quantitative synthesis of data from multiple studies. The primary goal is to pool data to draw more accurate and reliable conclusions than those possible from individual studies alone. This approach helps researchers overcome limitations associated with small sample sizes, variability in study designs, and potential publication biases.

Key Components of Meta-Analysis:

  1. Literature Review: Conducting a thorough literature review is the first step in meta-analysis. Researchers identify relevant studies, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the existing body of work on the chosen topic.
  2. Study Selection Criteria: Establishing clear inclusion and exclusion criteria is crucial to ensure the selected studies are comparable and relevant to the research question. This step helps maintain the integrity of the meta-analysis.
  3. Data Extraction: Data from each included study are systematically extracted. This involves collecting information on study design, participant characteristics, interventions or exposures, outcomes, and statistical results.
  4. Effect Size Calculation: The effect size quantifies the magnitude of the relationship between variables or the intervention’s impact. Common effect size measures include odds ratios, risk ratios, and standardized mean differences.
  5. Statistical Analysis: Meta-analysis employs statistical techniques to combine the results of individual studies. Weighting is applied to account for study size, and heterogeneity tests assess the variability between studies.

Advantages of Meta-Analysis:

  1. Increased Statistical Power: Meta-analysis enhances statistical power by combining data from multiple studies, allowing researchers to detect smaller effect sizes that may be overlooked in individual studies.
  2. Generalizability: Pooling data from diverse studies increases the generalizability of findings, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the research question across different populations and contexts.
  3. Identifying Patterns and Trends: Meta-analysis enables the identification of patterns or trends that may not be evident in individual studies, offering a more holistic view of the research landscape.
  4. Resolution of Inconsistencies: Conflicting findings in individual studies can be reconciled through meta-analysis. By exploring sources of heterogeneity, researchers can identify factors contributing to discrepancies and refine their interpretations.

Limitations of Meta-Analysis:

  1. Publication Bias: Meta-analyses are susceptible to publication bias, as studies with significant or positive results are more likely to be published. This bias can distort the overall findings and affect the validity of the meta-analysis.
  2. Heterogeneity: Variability in study designs, participant characteristics, and methodologies can contribute to heterogeneity, challenging the synthesis of results. Researchers must carefully assess and address heterogeneity in their analyses.
  3. Quality of Included Studies: Meta-analyses are only as robust as the studies included. If the quality of the individual studies is low, the overall meta-analysis may be compromised.

Conclusion:

Meta-analysis stands as a powerful tool in the researcher’s arsenal, offering a methodical and quantitative approach to synthesizing evidence from diverse studies. While it has its limitations, when conducted rigorously, meta-analysis provides a valuable means of drawing more reliable conclusions and advancing our understanding of complex phenomena across various disciplines. As research methodologies continue to evolve, meta-analysis remains a key player in the pursuit of knowledge and scientific progress.

References

Dehalwar, K., & Singh, J. (2015). A Critical Evaluation of the main Causes of Water Management Problems in Indian Urban Areas. International Research Journal of Environment Sciences. 48.

Dehalwar, K., & Sharma, S. N. (2023). Fundamentals of Research Writing and Uses of Research Methodologies.

Sharma, S. N. (2019). Review of most used urban growth models. International Journal of Advanced Research in Engineering and Technology (IJARET)10(3), 397-405.

Sharma, S. N. Techniques of Meta-Analysis for Unlocking Knowledge.

2023 – Air Quality Perspective in Delhi

By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM), since its inception in 2021, through a series of firm steps, has initiated various policy measures and field actions towards abatement of air pollution in Delhi-NCR. 

Continual and concerted efforts of all the stakeholders round the year also in 2023 have further helped to improve the general air quality parameters in Delhi as compared to the past few years (barring the periods of very low anthropogenic, industrial and commercial activities during the Covid affected year 2020, owing to complete lockdowns and other restrictions), pursuant to various preventive and mitigative field actions through numerous statutory directions and orders of the Commission, covering all major sectors contributing to the overall air quality.

 Comparative air quality related parameters for the years starting 2018 onwards follow as tabulated under:

Month-wise Daily Avg. AQI for Delhi

Month201820192020202120222023
January328328286324279311
February243242241288225237
March203184128223217170
April222211110202255179
May217221144144212171
June202189123147190130
July104134841108784
August111866410793116
September1129811678104108
October269234266173210219
November335312328377320373
December360337332336319348

Barring 2020, the year 2023 witnessed 4 months (March, April, June and July) with best ever daily average AQI and 3 months (January, February and May) with second best daily average AQI during the entire period from 2018 to 2023. 

      Daily Avg. AQI for Delhi during the entire year

Year201820192020 2021 20222023
Daily Avg. AQI225215185209 209204

     The average daily AQI for Delhi during the entire year 2023 has been the best so far since 2018 and even before that, barring 2020, which saw an exceptional AQI owing to continued spells of lockdown and low anthropogenic activities round the year. 

Comparative PM10 and PM2.5 Concentrations

     As per IMD data, comparative daily average Particulate Matter emission concentration (PM2.5 and PM10) values in Delhi read as under:

YearDaily avg. PM10 (µgm/m3)Daily avg. PM2.5 (µgm/m3)
2018242114
2019217108
2020*18094
2021210104
202221198
2023205100

    * Covid Year

The Year 2023 has thus witnessed the lowest ever recorded daily average values for PM10 and the second best PM2.5 concentrations, barring the Covid affected 2020 with lowest anthropogenic activities.  

Comparative AQI Category status for Delhi

AQI CategoryNo. of Days
201820192020202120222023201820192020202120222023
Good(0-50)025131159182227197163206
Satisfactory(51-100)535995726560
Moderate(101-200) 10612112712495145
Poor(201-300) 114103758013077186159124144196 144 
Very Poor(201-300) 725649646667
Severe401-450) 2019132061320241524615
Severe +>450052402

As per the CPCB criteria for the air quality category based on gradation of the daily average AQI, the year 2023 witnessed the best ever “Good to Moderate” AQI days , registering a mark of  more than 200 days (barring Covid affected 2020).

The number of days with Severe – Severe + AQI were 15 during 2023, which is also the second-best figure for the period between 2018 – 2023.

Comparative Delhi AQI around Diwali Festival

YearPre-Diwali DayDiwali DayPost-Diwali Day
2018338281390
2019287337368
2020339414435
2021314382462
2022259312302
2023220218358

The above tabulation indicates best ever AQI in Delhi around the Diwali festival in 2023.

     The year 2023 also witnessed much lower levels of episodic events like farm burnings during paddy harvesting season, bursting of crackers during religious festivals and marriages/celebrations etc.  However, the benefit attributable to the same in Delhi’s AQI, was nullified owing to much adverse climatic, meteorological, low temperature and calm wind conditions in the region, impeding effective dispersion of the pollutants and resulting in a spike in the daily average AQI during the winter months in particular.  Despite these factors, the overall daily average AQI during the year has been the best so far. 

     With persistent field level efforts and targeted policy initiatives for quantified results in the short/ medium/ long term, it is expected that air quality scenario over Delhi will see further gradual but marked improvement, year on year.

References

Amann, M., Purohit, P., Bhanarkar, A. D., Bertok, I., Borken-Kleefeld, J., Cofala, J., … & Vardhan, B. H. (2017). Managing future air quality in megacities: A case study for Delhi. Atmospheric environment161, 99-111.

Dehalwar, K. Understanding the Dynamics of Peri-Urban Areas: Navigating the Interface Between Urban and Rural Realms.

Goyal, P. (2003). Present scenario of air quality in Delhi: a case study of CNG implementation. Atmospheric Environment37(38), 5423-5431.

Kumar, A., & Goyal, P. (2011). Forecasting of daily air quality index in Delhi. Science of the Total Environment409(24), 5517-5523.

Mohan, M., & Kandya, A. (2007). An analysis of the annual and seasonal trends of air quality index of Delhi. Environmental monitoring and assessment131, 267-277.

Sharma, S. N. (2013). Sustainable development strategies and approaches. International Journal of Engineering and Technical Research (IJETR)2.

Sharma, S. N., & Biswas, A. (2016). Best practices for ensuring total sanitation. International Journal for Social Studies, ISSN, 2455-3220.

Sinha, J., & Kumar, N. (2019). Mortality and air pollution effects of air quality interventions in Delhi and Beijing. Frontiers in environmental science7, 15.

Tiwari, A., Gupta, R., & Chandra, R. (2021). Delhi air quality prediction using LSTM deep learning models with a focus on COVID-19 lockdown. arXiv preprint arXiv:2102.10551.

The Complex Reality of Delhi’s Slums: A Closer Look at Urban Informality

By: Shashikant Nishant Sharma

Delhi, the capital city of India, is a vibrant metropolis that juxtaposes modernity and tradition. However, amid the glittering skyscrapers and bustling marketplaces, there exists a stark contrast in the form of slums that dot the cityscape. These informal settlements, home to a significant portion of Delhi’s population, present a complex and challenging reality. This article aims to shed light on the slums of Delhi, exploring the factors that contribute to their existence, the challenges faced by residents, and potential solutions to address this pressing issue.

Factors Contributing to the Existence of Slums:

  1. Rapid Urbanization: Delhi has witnessed rapid urbanization over the years, attracting people from rural areas in search of better opportunities. However, the city’s infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with the population influx, leading to the formation of informal settlements.
  2. Lack of Affordable Housing: The soaring cost of real estate in Delhi has made it difficult for a significant portion of the population to afford proper housing. As a result, many individuals and families find themselves living in makeshift shelters in slums.
  3. Informal Employment: A substantial number of slum dwellers are engaged in informal and low-wage employment opportunities. The lack of stable income makes it challenging for them to access formal housing options, pushing them towards the fringes of the city.

Rapid Urbanization:

Delhi’s landscape has undergone a rapid transformation as it evolved into a bustling metropolis, magnetically attracting individuals from rural areas in pursuit of improved livelihoods. The city’s economic opportunities and urban allure have spurred an influx of people seeking a better life. However, this surge in population has strained the existing infrastructure, causing a proliferation of informal settlements. The speed at which Delhi has urbanized has outpaced the development of essential services, resulting in the emergence of slums that grapple with inadequate amenities and living conditions.

Lack of Affordable Housing:

One of the most pressing challenges contributing to the existence of slums in Delhi is the exorbitant cost of real estate. The city’s property market has experienced a meteoric rise, rendering it increasingly unaffordable for a significant segment of the population. The soaring property prices have left a considerable portion of Delhi’s residents with limited housing options, forcing them into makeshift shelters within the confines of slums. This disparity in housing affordability underscores a critical issue that demands attention to ensure a more equitable distribution of living spaces within the city.

Informal Employment:

A significant demographic within Delhi’s slums is engaged in informal and low-wage employment opportunities. The city’s economic landscape accommodates a diverse range of informal sectors, from street vending to day labor, providing a source of income for many. However, the nature of informal employment often means irregular and unstable income streams, making it arduous for individuals to secure formal housing. As a consequence, slum dwellers, driven by economic necessity, find themselves on the peripheries of the city, residing in settlements that lack the basic amenities necessary for dignified living.

Addressing these factors necessitates a comprehensive approach that considers not only housing but also the broader issues of urban planning, economic development, and social welfare. Efforts to provide affordable housing options, improve infrastructure, and formalize employment opportunities can contribute to alleviating the challenges faced by residents of Delhi’s slums. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of the issue, policymakers and urban planners can work towards creating a more inclusive and sustainable urban environment for all of Delhi’s inhabitants.

Challenges Faced by Slum Dwellers:

  1. Inadequate Infrastructure: Slums often lack basic amenities such as proper sanitation, clean water supply, and electricity. The absence of these fundamental services contributes to a cycle of poverty and health challenges for the residents.
  2. Health and Hygiene Concerns: Overcrowded living conditions, coupled with inadequate sanitation facilities, create a breeding ground for diseases. The prevalence of health issues in slums underscores the urgent need for improved healthcare services and sanitation infrastructure.
  3. Educational Barriers: Access to quality education remains a significant challenge for children living in slums. Limited resources, coupled with the need for children to contribute to family income, often result in lower enrollment and higher dropout rates.
  4. Vulnerability to Displacement: Slum dwellers often live in constant fear of eviction, as their settlements are considered illegal. This vulnerability adds a layer of uncertainty to their lives and makes it difficult for them to invest in long-term improvements to their living conditions.

Inadequate Infrastructure:

One of the most pressing challenges faced by slum dwellers in Delhi is the pervasive lack of basic infrastructure. Many slum settlements are characterized by the absence of essential amenities such as proper sanitation, a reliable clean water supply, and consistent electricity. The dearth of these fundamental services perpetuates a cycle of poverty, hindering residents from breaking free from the constraints of their living conditions. Insufficient infrastructure not only compromises the daily lives of slum dwellers but also restricts their potential for economic and social advancement.

Health and Hygiene Concerns:

The overcrowded living conditions within Delhi’s slums, combined with the absence of adequate sanitation facilities, create a breeding ground for various diseases. The prevalence of health issues in these communities highlights the urgent need for improved healthcare services and enhanced sanitation infrastructure. Communicable diseases thrive in environments where hygiene is compromised, posing a constant threat to the well-being of slum residents. Addressing health and hygiene concerns is paramount to breaking the cycle of illness and promoting the overall welfare of those residing in Delhi’s slums.

Educational Barriers:

Access to quality education remains a significant hurdle for children growing up in Delhi’s slums. Limited resources, both within the slum communities and in the broader education system, contribute to lower enrollment rates and higher dropout rates. Children often face the dual challenge of needing to contribute to family income, making it difficult for them to prioritize education. Breaking down educational barriers is essential for empowering the younger generation within slum communities, providing them with the tools and opportunities needed to overcome the cycle of poverty.

Vulnerability to Displacement:

The constant fear of eviction looms large over the lives of slum dwellers in Delhi, as their settlements are often deemed illegal. This vulnerability not only disrupts the daily lives of residents but also creates a layer of uncertainty that impedes long-term improvements to their living conditions. The perpetual risk of displacement discourages investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare within slum communities, perpetuating a cycle of neglect and marginalization.

To address these challenges, concerted efforts are needed from policymakers, community leaders, and civil society organizations. Initiatives that focus on improving infrastructure, enhancing healthcare services, promoting education, and providing secure land tenure can contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty and vulnerability faced by the residents of Delhi’s slums. Only through a holistic and collaborative approach can meaningful progress be made towards creating more inclusive and equitable urban spaces.

Potential Solutions and Initiatives:

  1. Affordable Housing Programs: Implementing affordable housing initiatives and policies can help address the housing crisis in Delhi. The government, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations, can work towards providing affordable housing options for low-income families.
  2. Improving Infrastructure: Investment in basic infrastructure such as sanitation, clean water supply, and electricity is crucial for enhancing the living conditions in slums. Targeted interventions can significantly improve the quality of life for residents.
  3. Community Empowerment: Empowering slum communities through education and skill development programs can break the cycle of poverty. Initiatives that focus on providing vocational training and creating employment opportunities within or near the slums can uplift residents economically.
  4. Regularization of Informal Settlements: Instead of displacement, authorities could consider the regularization of existing informal settlements. This involves providing legal recognition, basic services, and tenure security to residents, contributing to a more stable and secure living environment.

In the dynamic and evolving landscape of Delhi’s slums, addressing the challenges faced by residents requires proactive and comprehensive solutions. Here are potential initiatives and strategies that could make a significant impact on improving the lives of those living in informal settlements:

Affordable Housing Programs: Implementing affordable housing initiatives is paramount in alleviating the housing crisis in Delhi. The government, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private stakeholders, can develop and execute policies that prioritize affordable housing options for low-income families. This may involve the creation of subsidized housing schemes, low-interest loans, or innovative housing models that cater to the unique needs of slum dwellers.

Improving Infrastructure: A targeted and sustained investment in basic infrastructure is crucial for enhancing the living conditions in Delhi’s slums. This includes initiatives to improve sanitation facilities, ensure a reliable and clean water supply, and provide access to electricity. Upgrading infrastructure not only addresses immediate health and hygiene concerns but also contributes to the overall well-being and dignity of slum residents.

Community Empowerment: Empowering slum communities through education and skill development programs can be a transformative step in breaking the cycle of poverty. Initiatives that provide access to quality education for children and adults alike, coupled with vocational training programs, can equip residents with the skills needed for better employment opportunities. Creating avenues for entrepreneurship within or near the slums further uplifts the economic prospects of the community.

Regularization of Informal Settlements: Rather than displacing residents, authorities could consider the regularization of existing informal settlements. This involves providing legal recognition to these settlements, ensuring basic services such as water, sanitation, and electricity, and granting tenure security to residents. Regularization not only enhances the legitimacy of slum communities but also provides a more stable and secure living environment, encouraging long-term investments in infrastructure and community development.

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encouraging partnerships between the public and private sectors can amplify the impact of initiatives aimed at slum improvement. Collaborations with private entities can bring in additional resources, expertise, and innovative solutions. This could involve joint ventures for housing projects, infrastructure development, or social enterprises that benefit the residents of slum communities.

Inclusive Urban Planning: Integrating slum development into the broader urban planning framework is essential for creating a more inclusive city. Authorities can adopt participatory approaches, involving slum residents in the planning and decision-making processes. This ensures that development initiatives align with the unique needs and aspirations of the communities they seek to serve.

Conclusion:

The slums of Delhi represent a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach. Tackling issues related to housing, infrastructure, healthcare, and education is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable urban environment. As Delhi continues to evolve, policymakers, community leaders, and citizens must come together to find sustainable solutions that uplift the lives of those residing in the city’s informal settlements. By combining these initiatives and strategies, Delhi has the potential to transform its slum areas into thriving, sustainable communities. These efforts not only address immediate challenges but also lay the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive urban landscape.

References

Datta, Ayona. “The intimate city: Violence, gender and ordinary life in Delhi slums.” Urban Geography 37.3 (2016): 323-342.

Dehalwar, K., & Sharma, S. N. (2023). Fate of Slums of Bhopal-A Tale of Struggle and Resilience. Think India Journal26(4), 12-18.

Dehalwar, Kavita, and Shashikant Nishant Sharma. “Fundamentals of Research Writing and Uses of Research Methodologies.” (2023).

Gupta, I., & Mitra, A. (2002). Rural migrants and labour segmentation: micro-level evidence from Delhi slums. Economic and Political Weekly, 163-168.

Kumar, N., & Aggarwal, S. C. (2003). Patterns of consumption and poverty in Delhi slums. Economic and Political Weekly, 5294-5300.

Mitra, A. (2004). Informal Sector, Networks and Intra‐City Variations in Activities: Findings from Delhi Slums. Review of Urban & Regional Development Studies16(2), 154-169.

Sharma, Shashikant Nishant. “Urban forms in planning and design.” International Journal of Research 1.1 (2014): 7-16.

Sharma, S. N. (2013). Sustainable development strategies and approaches. International Journal of Engineering and Technical Research (IJETR)2.

Sharma, S. N. (2014). Participatory Planning in Plan Preparation. BookCountry.

Sharma, S. N. (2016). Introduction to Sociology. New Perspectives in Sociology and Allied Fields, 1.

Sharma, S. N. (Ed.). (2016). New perspectives in sociology and allied fields. EduPedia Publications (P) Ltd.

Snell-Rood, C. (2015). No one will let her live: women’s struggle for well-being in a Delhi slum. University of California Press.

Tsujita, Y. (2013). Factors that prevent children from gaining access to schooling: A study of Delhi slum households. International Journal of Educational Development33(4), 348-357.

The Harsh Reality of Slum Life in Bhopal: A Closer Look at Poor Living Conditions

By: Kavita Dehalwar

Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh in central India, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that boasts a rich cultural heritage. However, amidst the glitz and glamour, there exists a stark contrast in the form of slums that house a significant portion of the city’s population. The poor living conditions in these slums paint a grim picture of inequality and social disparity. In this article, we delve into the challenges faced by the residents of Bhopal’s slums and shed light on the urgent need for intervention.

Overcrowding and Limited Space:

One of the most pressing issues in Bhopal’s slums is the severe overcrowding that residents have to contend with daily. The limited availability of space forces families to live in cramped conditions, often with insufficient ventilation and sanitation facilities. This not only jeopardizes the health of the residents but also contributes to the rapid spread of diseases.

The issue of overcrowding in Bhopal’s slums is a pervasive challenge that significantly impacts the daily lives and well-being of residents. The limited availability of space creates an environment where families are compelled to live in close quarters, leading to a myriad of issues.

Cramped Living Conditions:

In many slum areas, families reside in small, makeshift shelters constructed from a variety of materials, often salvaged or recycled. The lack of space results in cramped living conditions where multiple family members share confined quarters. The absence of separate rooms or designated living spaces means that privacy is a luxury, and individuals often struggle to find personal space within the confines of their homes.

Insufficient Ventilation:

The cramped living conditions are exacerbated by inadequate ventilation, as many of the structures lack proper windows or ventilation systems. Poor air circulation not only contributes to the discomfort of residents but also poses serious health risks. Stagnant air can trap pollutants and exacerbate respiratory issues, leading to a higher prevalence of respiratory diseases among slum dwellers.

Sanitation Challenges:

Overcrowded living conditions also give rise to significant sanitation challenges. With a limited number of communal facilities, such as shared toilets and bathing areas, maintaining personal hygiene becomes a considerable struggle. The lack of private sanitation facilities not only compromises the dignity of residents but also increases the risk of the spread of infectious diseases.

Health Implications:

The overcrowded living conditions in Bhopal’s slums create an environment conducive to the rapid spread of diseases. Communicable diseases thrive in crowded spaces where individuals have limited access to healthcare and sanitation. Respiratory infections, waterborne diseases, and vector-borne illnesses become more prevalent, posing a constant threat to the health and well-being of the community.

Social and Psychological Impact:

Beyond the physical health implications, overcrowding in slums also takes a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of residents. The stress of living in crowded conditions, coupled with the lack of personal space, can contribute to increased tension within families and communities. Additionally, the challenging living conditions may hinder the development of children, affecting their cognitive and emotional growth.

Addressing the Challenge:

To address the issue of overcrowding in Bhopal’s slums, there is a pressing need for comprehensive urban planning and development initiatives. Efforts should focus on creating affordable housing solutions, improving infrastructure, and ensuring access to basic amenities. By providing adequate living space, promoting proper ventilation, and enhancing sanitation facilities, it is possible to mitigate the adverse effects of overcrowding and uplift the quality of life for slum residents. Additionally, community engagement and empowerment play a crucial role in the sustainable development of these areas, fostering a sense of ownership and resilience among the residents. Through collaborative efforts, it is possible to transform the living conditions in Bhopal’s slums and pave the way for a healthier, more equitable future.

Inadequate Sanitation Facilities:

Sanitation facilities in Bhopal’s slums are far from adequate, creating a breeding ground for health hazards. The absence of proper sewage systems and waste management leads to the accumulation of garbage and stagnant water, facilitating the spread of waterborne diseases. Lack of access to clean water exacerbates the problem, leaving residents vulnerable to infections and illnesses.

The inadequate sanitation facilities in the slums of Bhopal present a critical challenge to the health and well-being of its residents. The absence of proper infrastructure for sewage systems and waste management contributes to a host of problems, creating an environment conducive to the spread of diseases.

Lack of Proper Sewage Systems:

One of the primary issues in Bhopal’s slums is the absence of adequate sewage systems. Many residents do not have access to proper toilet facilities, forcing them to rely on shared or communal toilets that are often unhygienic and poorly maintained. The lack of a comprehensive sewage system means that waste disposal becomes a significant challenge, with untreated sewage posing a threat to both the environment and public health.

Accumulation of Garbage:

In the absence of efficient waste management systems, garbage accumulates in and around the slum areas. Piles of waste become breeding grounds for pests and disease vectors, increasing the risk of the spread of infectious diseases. The lack of proper waste disposal mechanisms not only affects the immediate living conditions of the residents but also contributes to broader environmental degradation.

Stagnant Water and Waterborne Diseases:

The inadequate drainage systems in Bhopal’s slums often result in the accumulation of stagnant water, particularly during the monsoon season. Stagnant water becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes that carry diseases such as dengue and malaria. Waterborne diseases, including cholera and dysentery, are prevalent due to the lack of access to clean water and the contamination of existing water sources with untreated sewage.

Vulnerability to Infections and Illnesses:

The combination of insufficient sanitation facilities, inadequate waste management, and the absence of clean water access creates a perfect storm for the vulnerability of slum residents to infections and illnesses. Preventable diseases thrive in such environments, affecting the overall health of the community and placing an additional burden on already strained healthcare systems.

Addressing Sanitation Challenges:

Improving sanitation facilities in Bhopal’s slums requires a concerted effort from both governmental and non-governmental organizations. Comprehensive urban planning initiatives should prioritize the installation of proper sewage systems, waste management infrastructure, and the construction of clean and accessible communal toilets. Public awareness campaigns about the importance of hygiene and sanitation practices are also essential to promote behavioral change within the community.

Access to Clean Water:

Ensuring access to clean water is paramount in addressing the sanitation crisis. Initiatives to provide reliable and safe water sources, along with community education on water conservation and purification methods, can significantly improve the overall health of slum residents. Collaboration between local authorities, NGOs, and community leaders is crucial to implementing sustainable solutions that address the root causes of inadequate sanitation facilities.

In conclusion, the inadequate sanitation facilities in Bhopal’s slums are a pressing issue that demands immediate attention and comprehensive solutions. By addressing these challenges, we can create healthier and more sustainable living conditions for slum residents, fostering a positive impact on their overall well-being and breaking the cycle of poverty and disease.

Substandard Housing Conditions:

The quality of housing in Bhopal’s slums is a major concern. Many residents live in makeshift structures constructed from salvaged materials, offering little protection from the elements. Flimsy walls and leaky roofs make these homes susceptible to damage during inclement weather, further compromising the safety and well-being of the inhabitants.

The substandard housing conditions prevalent in the slums of Bhopal underscore a critical aspect of the broader issue of poverty and inequality in the city. Residents of these areas often grapple with makeshift dwellings constructed from salvaged materials, resulting in homes that provide minimal protection from the elements and pose significant risks to the safety and well-being of inhabitants.

Makeshift Structures:

A predominant feature of Bhopal’s slums is the prevalence of makeshift structures. Residents, often facing economic constraints, resort to constructing homes using salvaged materials such as corrugated metal, tarpaulin, and cardboard. These structures lack the durability and structural integrity required to withstand the challenges posed by weather conditions, leaving residents vulnerable to various environmental hazards.

Limited Protection from the Elements:

The flimsy nature of these makeshift dwellings offers limited protection from the elements. During the scorching summer months, residents endure extreme heat, with inadequate insulation aggravating the already challenging living conditions. Similarly, during the monsoon season, leaky roofs and compromised structural integrity expose inhabitants to rainwater infiltration, contributing to the risk of waterborne diseases and compromising the structural stability of the dwellings.

Vulnerability to Weather-Related Risks:

Inclement weather, including heavy rains, strong winds, and extreme temperatures, poses a significant threat to the safety of residents living in substandard housing conditions. Structural damage and collapse are not uncommon, leading to injuries and, in severe cases, loss of life. The lack of proper foundations and building materials exacerbates the susceptibility of these dwellings to weather-related risks.

Health Implications:

Beyond the immediate structural risks, substandard housing conditions have profound implications for the health of residents. Inadequate shelter contributes to a higher likelihood of respiratory problems due to exposure to the elements. Mold growth resulting from leaks and dampness further exacerbates health issues, especially among children and the elderly. The compromised living conditions also increase the risk of injuries and infections.

Addressing the Housing Crisis:

Addressing the substandard housing conditions in Bhopal’s slums requires a multifaceted approach that combines immediate interventions with long-term solutions. Initiatives should include:

  1. Affordable Housing Programs: Implementing affordable housing programs that prioritize the needs of slum residents, providing safe and secure living spaces that meet basic standards.
  2. Urban Redevelopment: Undertaking comprehensive urban redevelopment projects to improve infrastructure, housing quality, and overall living conditions in slum areas.
  3. Community Engagement: Involving residents in the decision-making process and seeking their input on housing solutions to ensure that interventions are culturally sensitive and align with the community’s needs.
  4. Access to Basic Services: Ensuring that slum areas have access to basic services such as water, sanitation, and electricity, which are integral components of improved living conditions.
  5. Government and NGO Collaboration: Facilitating collaboration between governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community-based organizations to pool resources and expertise for effective housing solutions.

By prioritizing the improvement of housing conditions in Bhopal’s slums, stakeholders can contribute to the creation of safer, healthier, and more dignified living environments for residents, ultimately breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering sustainable urban development.

Limited Educational Opportunities:

The cycle of poverty is perpetuated by the limited educational opportunities available to children in slum areas. Lack of access to quality education leaves these youngsters with few prospects for the future, trapping them in a cycle of poverty that is hard to break. Addressing educational disparities is crucial for breaking this cycle and uplifting the community as a whole.

Healthcare Disparities:

Access to healthcare in slum areas is often limited, and residents face significant barriers to receiving timely and adequate medical attention. The prevalence of unhygienic living conditions contributes to the spread of diseases, and the lack of healthcare infrastructure exacerbates the situation. Efforts to improve healthcare accessibility and awareness are critical to enhancing the well-being of slum dwellers.

Community Empowerment and Urban Planning:

Addressing the poor living conditions in Bhopal’s slums requires a multi-faceted approach that combines community empowerment with effective urban planning. Involving the residents in decision-making processes, providing skill development opportunities, and implementing sustainable urban development projects can contribute to positive change.

Conclusion:

The poor living conditions in the slums of Bhopal are a stark reminder of the social and economic disparities that persist in our society. Efforts to improve sanitation, housing, education, and healthcare are imperative to uplift the lives of slum dwellers and provide them with a chance for a better future. By addressing these challenges collectively, we can work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society in Bhopal and beyond.

References

Choudhary AK, Choudhary A, Tiwari SC, Dwivedi R. Factors associated with low birth weight among newborns in an urban slum community in Bhopal. Indian journal of public health. 2013 Jan 1;57(1):20-3.

Dehalwar K, Singh J. Current State of Water Management System: Case Review of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. International Journal of Civil, Structural, Environmental and Infrastructure Engineering Research and Development (IJCSEIERD). 2015;5(6):35-40.

Dehalwar K, Singh J. Challenges and strategies for the improvement of water management in Bhopal. European Scientific Journal. 2016 Jan 1;12(2).

Dehalwar K, Sharma SN. Fate of Slums of Bhopal-A Tale of Struggle and Resilience. Think India Journal. 2023 Nov 3;26(4):12-8.

Kumar Gupta S, Nandeshwar S. Status of maternal and child health and services utilization patterns in the urban slums of Bhopal, India. National Journal of Community Medicine. 2012 Jun 30;3(02):330-2.

Sanyal S, Sen A. Socio-economic Conditions of Urban Slum Dwellers in Bhopal City. The Geographer. 2016;63(2):61-70.

Saxena PN, Joshi R. Eradication of slums in Bhopal City. Int J Sci Technol Eng. 2015;2(6):104-12.

Sharma SN. Sustainable development strategies and approaches. International Journal of Engineering and Technical Research (IJETR). 2013;2.

Sharma SN, editor. New perspectives in sociology and allied fields. EduPedia Publications (P) Ltd; 2016 Jun 3.

Sharma SN. A Review of Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana. Think India Journal. 2020 Feb 19;23(1):26-32.

Family time – The most important of all

Do you ever wonder why family time is important?

Yes, time is so important – in fact, time is money, as we’re often reminded when we set out to seek our livelihood as parents.

But family time? Is this meaningful or serve any purpose? Isn’t it just a waste of time because you could probably earn a few grand more putting that time to work!

I know you do not actually think like that and I’ve exaggerated it a bit.

May be you do plan to spend time with your family but things do not always go as per the plans. But you do it all for the family – to earn and provide for the family.

You give money and things to your family. But what does your family need the most?

Your time.

For your kids, your time spent with them is life precious jewels that embed in their memories forever.

The concept of “family” has changed a great deal in recent times, and there are now various forms of families and different styles of parenting. However, one thing remains certain; whatever the term “family” may mean to you, it is of utmost importance in your child’s life.

The family where your child grows up has a big influence on how he or she deals with relationships, copes with situations, and learns about living life. It’s only possible if you proactively be a part of the family.

And for that to happen, you need to block out family time in your schedule.

Family time is also important because if children don’t get the required attention, they might do something that could get them in trouble.

Some stay-at-home parents or moms may think that they are somehow “better” than other parents or moms, who stay away from home for most of the time. This is a misconception.

We often think that it’s all about quantity when it comes to the time we spend with our kids, whereas it is the quality time that we need to give our family and children. Your kids care less about the hours you spend with them, than how you spend your time with them.

As your children get older and become teenagers, it becomes tougher to spend family time with them. It’s mainly because life keeps you busy and your children reach a stage where their friends are the main priority.

As a parent, you have to be willing to go down to their level and enter their world. Sometimes you have to be creative or let them decide what they want to do as a family. But never give up on spending family time with your teens, and they may appreciate it more than what they express.

According to studies, healthy families make family time for talking and listening, accepting differences, showing affection and encouragement, sharing chores and decision making, keeping in touch, and making time for each other.

Why family time is important??

1. To build a stronger bond with your family!

The main reason why family time is important is because you need to develop ties and bond with your family. Often kids decide to join gangs or groups because they welcome them in, to become a part of their family.

Your kids need a sense of belonging and security, as they need to feel they have someone they can turn and look up to, for anything. Spending family time together ensures that a deep, strong, family bond develops.

2. To make time to talk and listen!


Another good reason of spending time with family directly relates to the need to share, talk, and listen to each other as a family.

Parents often think that it would be tough to talk to their children, who think differently from grown-ups. However, parents tend to forget their own time, as how it was for them when they were young! The people you liked were mostly those who listened to what you had to say, similarly, you need to listen to what your children have to say. Listening doesn’t mean only hearing the words your child is saying, but also feeling what your child is trying to convey.

You need to listen without jumping in with answers, criticizing, or giving your own view points. You need to show that you are involved in the conversation, by stopping all other work you are doing, and just listen to them. Talk directly to your kids, especially teenagers, about alcohol and drugs, and set a good example yourself.

3. To teach your children important lessons of life!


If you do not teach children at home, they will learn it elsewhere. As a parent, would you want your children to learn life’s important lessons by undergoing pain, or going the wrong way?

Although children have to learn a few things on their own, it’s important to have family time for discussions, where you can put forth problems or situations in front of them, and then talk about them with your children, seek their opinion, and discuss on the matter. This would help them understand the situations of life in a better way.

4. To show affection, appreciation, and encouragement!


Family time is important so that everyone in the family has a way of showing affection to each other, maybe by giving hugs, holding hands, being thoughtful and kind. According to studies, teenagers who remember being praised, hugged, or kissed are likely to do better at school than those who don’t have this experience.

You need to take out that quality family time to ask what each family member has done in the day, and show interest in each other’s lives. People find it very easy to criticize than praise. So make an effort to think about the positive in each person and tell your child what goodness you have noticed, besides teaching them these values.

5. To instill family values in your children!


Instilling family values in children is of great significance nowadays, so that they are not misled by the number of divorces on the rise.

Children mostly imitate the behavior you show towards them. If you are an absent parent, they will be the same to their children in the future. Instead, they often portray worse behaviors than they see.

Thus, spending family time together will build a sense of worth and instill positive family values in your children.

6. To inculcate family rituals and traditions!


Daily rituals or the little things that you do daily and on special occasions, helps to build a sense of belonging, contentedness, and inner security within the family. Daily rituals like the way you greet each other, or say goodbye, what you do at mealtimes or bedtimes, can all be something to share within your family time.

Families benefit from coming together to celebrate occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or festivals like Christmas, etc., where they learn the traditions about what happens at these times.

7. To accept the differences in each person!


Family time is essential to appreciate, encourage, and value the differences in each family member, knowing that everyone is special in their own way. Allow each family member to be excited about their personal interests, and show respect and tolerance towards them.

Don’t pressurize your family members to be like you, or hide their feelings and differences. Instead, let them feel proud to be themselves.

8. To keep in touch with friends and relatives!


As we live in a society, we do need to spend time among our family as well as interact with friends and relatives. Knowing that there are people outside the family to turn to in a crisis can make a difference to your child’s happiness. It also increases the chances of them making good friends later in life.

9. To share the chores!


Family time is important to teach younger children, by giving them chance to do things for themselves, under your supervision. Use adult power wisely, and keep control through humor and encouragement, not with punishments or threats.

By spending time with family together, a very special relationship of trust and intimacy develops that helps build a healthy family. Especially when children have a real say in what happens and where everyone feels their views are heard.

10. To help and connect better with your children!


One of the most overlooked aspects of education today is parental involvement. Many parents don’t realize the importance of family time and how important it is to involve themselves in their children’s learning.

All parents and family members need to find time and make the effort. Research shows that when parents involve themselves in the family, their children:

-Get superior grades and test scores.
-Graduate from high school at higher rates.
-Are most likely to go on to higher education.
-Have more positive attitudes and behave better.

Show loyalty to your family, stick up for each other so that each person feels confident in the family’s support and pull together to form a united front to find solutions.
Children grow up and are gone before you realize it, so don’t waste the time you have now, and spend it with your family. Remember, that strong families are able to withstand setbacks and crisis with a positive attitude, shared values, and beliefs that help them cope with challenges.

5 skin care tips that everyone should be aware of!

Don’t have time for intensive skin care? You can still pamper yourself by acing the basics. Good skin care and healthy lifestyle choices can help delay natural aging and prevent various skin problems. Get started with these five no-nonsense tips.

1. Protect yourself from the sun


One of the most important ways to take care of your skin is to protect it from the sun. A lifetime of sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots and other skin problems — as well as increase the risk of skin cancer.

For the most complete sun protection:

Use sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you’re swimming or perspiring.
Seek shade. Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Wear protective clothing. Cover your skin with tightly woven long-sleeved shirts, long pants and wide-brimmed hats. Also consider laundry additives, which give clothing an additional layer of ultraviolet protection for a certain number of washings, or special sun-protective clothing — which is specifically designed to block ultraviolet rays.

2. Don’t smoke


Smoking makes your skin look older and contributes to wrinkles. Smoking narrows the tiny blood vessels in the outermost layers of skin, which decreases blood flow and makes skin paler. This also depletes the skin of oxygen and nutrients that are important to skin health.

Smoking also damages collagen and elastin — the fibers that give your skin strength and elasticity. In addition, the repetitive facial expressions you make when smoking — such as pursing your lips when inhaling and squinting your eyes to keep out smoke — can contribute to wrinkles.

In addition, smoking increases your risk of squamous cell skin cancer. If you smoke, the best way to protect your skin is to quit. Ask your doctor for tips or treatments to help you stop smoking.

3. Treat your skin gently


Daily cleansing and shaving can take a toll on your skin. To keep it gentle:

Limit bath time. Hot water and long showers or baths remove oils from your skin. Limit your bath or shower time, and use warm — rather than hot — water.
Avoid strong soaps. Strong soaps and detergents can strip oil from your skin. Instead, choose mild cleansers.
Shave carefully. To protect and lubricate your skin, apply shaving cream, lotion or gel before shaving. For the closest shave, use a clean, sharp razor. Shave in the direction the hair grows, not against it.
Pat dry. After washing or bathing, gently pat or blot your skin dry with a towel so that some moisture remains on your skin.
Moisturize dry skin. If your skin is dry, use a moisturizer that fits your skin type. For daily use, consider a moisturizer that contains SPF.

4. Eat a healthy diet


A healthy diet can help you look and feel your best. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. The association between diet and acne isn’t clear — but some research suggests that a diet rich in fish oil or fish oil supplements and low in unhealthy fats and processed or refined carbohydrates might promote younger looking skin. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin hydrated.

5. Manage stress


Uncontrolled stress can make your skin more sensitive and trigger acne breakouts and other skin problems. To encourage healthy skin — and a healthy state of mind — take steps to manage your stress. Get enough sleep, set reasonable limits, scale back your to-do list and make time to do the things you enjoy. The results might be more dramatic than you expect.

Foods that enhances the process of weight loss

Eating nutrient-rich foods, such as lean protein and legumes, can support your overall health and help you maintain a moderate body weight.


Eating nutrient-rich foods, such as lean protein and legumes, can support your overall health and help you maintain a moderate body weight.

Healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes. While weight loss is not a magic bullet for health, and not everyone needs to pursue weight loss, it might be something you want to work toward to feel your healthiest.

Coupled with regular movement, your diet can affect your health outcomes.

1. Whole eggs

Eggs are incredibly nutrient-dense. Interestingly, almost all its nutrients are found in the yolks — like choline and vitamin D — though egg whites deliver 4–6 grams of protein each. Because they’re high in protein and fat, they help you feel full. That’s key, because responding to your body’s internal fullness and hunger cues can help you reach or maintain a healthy weight. In other words, getting in the habit of eating when you’re hungry and stopping when you’re full can help your weight loss goals.

2. Leafy greens

Leafy greens include kale, spinach, collard greens, Swiss chard, and a few others. They have several properties that make them perfect for reaching or maintaining a healthy weight. For example, they pack fiber and nutrients that keep you satiated and hydrated.

3. Salmon

Fatty fish like salmon are incredibly nutritious and very satisfying.
Salmon is loaded with high quality protein, healthy fats, and various important nutrients. That combination keeps you satiated and can help you reach a healthier weight.

4. Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts.
Like other vegetables, they’re high in fiber and tend to be incredibly filling.
What’s more, these types of veggies contain decent amounts of protein. They’re not nearly as high in protein as animal foods or legumes, but still high for vegetables.

5. Chicken breast and some lean meats

Meat remains a controversial food group for many people.

Beyond issues of sustainability and ethics, we’re still not sure whether and how red meat raises the risk of heart disease or diabetes.

Research on meat consumption and health outcomes has yielded low evidence of causation.

6. Potatoes and other root vegetables

White potatoes seem to have fallen out of favor possibly, at least in part, due to the rise of lower carb diets.

For what it’s worth, potatoes and other root vegetables have several properties that make them wonderful foods for weight loss and optimal health. They contain an incredibly diverse range of nutrients a little bit of almost everything you need.

7. Beans and legumes

Beans and other legumes can be beneficial for weight loss. These include lentils, black beans, kidney beans, and some others.

Those foods tend to be high in protein and fiber, which are two nutrients that promote satiety. They also tend to contain some resistant starch

Get a proper sleep at night

Many factors can interfere with a good night’s sleep — from work stress and family responsibilities to illnesses. It’s no wonder that quality sleep is sometimes elusive.

You might not be able to control the factors that interfere with your sleep. However, you can adopt habits that encourage better sleep. Start with these simple tips.

1. Stick to a sleep schedule:- Set aside no more than eight hours for sleep. The recommended amount of sleep for a healthy adult is at least seven hours. Most people don’t need more than eight hours in bed to be well rested.

Go to bed and get up at the same time every day, including weekends. Being consistent reinforces your body’s sleep-wake cycle.

If you don’t fall asleep within about 20 minutes of going to bed, leave your bedroom and do something relaxing. Read or listen to soothing music. Go back to bed when you’re tired. Repeat as needed, but continue to maintain your sleep schedule and wake-up time.

2. Eat and drink:- Don’t go to bed hungry or stuffed. In particular, avoid heavy or large meals within a couple of hours of bedtime. Discomfort might keep you up.

Nicotine, caffeine and alcohol deserve caution, too. The stimulating effects of nicotine and caffeine take hours to wear off and can interfere with sleep. And even though alcohol might make you feel sleepy at first, it can disrupt sleep later in the night.

3. Creating a restful environment:- Keep your room cool, dark and quiet. Exposure to light in the evenings might make it more challenging to fall asleep. Avoid prolonged use of light-emitting screens just before bedtime. Consider using room-darkening shades, earplugs, a fan or other devices to create an environment that suits your needs.

Doing calming activities before bedtime, such as taking a bath or using relaxation techniques, might promote better sleep.

4. Limiting daytime naps:- Long daytime naps can interfere with nighttime sleep. Limit naps to no more than one hour and avoid napping late in the day.

However, if you work nights, you might need to nap late in the day before work to help make up your sleep debt.

5. Including physical activity in daily routine:- Regular physical activity can promote better sleep. However, avoid being active too close to bedtime.

Spending time outside every day might be helpful, too.

6. Manage your worries:- Try to resolve your worries or concerns before bedtime. Jot down what’s on your mind and then set it aside for tomorrow.

Stress management might help. Start with the basics, such as getting organized, setting priorities and delegating tasks. Meditation also can ease anxiety.

Nearly everyone has an occasional sleepless night. However, if you often have trouble sleeping, contact your health care provider. Identifying and treating any underlying causes can help you get the better sleep you deserve.

Best Yoga for PCOS

Lets start with what is PCOS…

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 6 to 12 percent of women during their childbearing years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This common female endocrine disorder causes your ovaries to produce an excess of male hormones, resulting in irregular periods, weight gain, and problems with fertility and ovulation.

But recent research points to a regular practice of yoga as an effective way to manage PCOS symptoms.

There are five easy yoga asanas that can actually help to deal with this issue as yoga helps to decrease testosterone levels in women and increase estrogen and also opens up the uterus and ovaries that makes ovulation much easier to occur. It even controls stress!

Asana 1:- Bridge Pose or Setu bandhasana

Asana 2:- Cat- Cow Pose or Chakravakasana

Asana 3:- Garland Pose or Malasana

Asana 4:- Sun Salutations or Surya Namaskar

Asana 5:- Head to Knee Pose or Janusirasana

Remember that always start from a beginning stage. You don’t need to be perfect and accurate from the very beginning as it always happens gradually. Practicing makes it easier and perfect. Consistency is the key!

Is inclusive growth possible in a market economy? State the significance of financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India.

Inclusive growth, also known as equitable growth, is a concept that emphasizes the importance of economic growth that benefits all members of society, regardless of their socio-economic status. In a market economy, where the allocation of resources is primarily determined by the interplay of supply and demand, achieving inclusive growth can be daunting. However, inclusive growth can be possible in a market economy with the right policies and strategies. This article will explore the concept of inclusive growth and its feasibility in a market economy. We will also discuss the importance of financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India.

The concept of inclusive growth is based on the idea that economic growth should be broad-based and inclusive, and not limited to a select few individuals or groups. It emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities and access to resources for all members of society, particularly those who are traditionally marginalized or excluded from economic activities. Inclusive growth is necessary to reduce poverty, inequality, and social exclusion and promote sustainable and long-term economic growth.

Market economies are based on the principles of supply and demand, where the market determines the allocation of resources. While market economies have the potential to generate economic growth and create wealth, they are also characterized by inequality and social exclusion. The benefits of economic growth are not distributed equally, and certain segments of society may be left behind. This is particularly true for marginalized groups such as women, minorities, and low-income households.

However, it is possible to achieve inclusive growth in a market economy by implementing policies and strategies that promote access to resources and opportunities for all members of society. For example, policies that focus on improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure can help create a more inclusive economy. Additionally, policies that promote entrepreneurship and innovation can help create new opportunities for marginalized groups and reduce barriers to entry.

Financial inclusion is a critical component of inclusive growth, particularly in developing economies such as India. Financial inclusion refers to the process of providing access to financial services to all members of society, particularly those who are traditionally excluded from the formal financial sector. Financial inclusion can help reduce poverty, increase economic growth, and promote social inclusion.

In India, financial inclusion has become a key priority for policymakers in recent years. The government has launched several initiatives to promote financial inclusion, including the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), which aims to provide access to financial services to all households in the country. The PMJDY has been successful in reaching millions of unbanked households and has helped promote financial inclusion in the country.

Financial inclusion can have a significant impact on economic growth in India. By providing access to financial services, particularly credit, financial inclusion can help promote entrepreneurship and innovation, which are critical drivers of economic growth. Additionally, financial inclusion can help reduce poverty and improve the standard of living for marginalized groups.

Conclusion:

However, achieving financial inclusion is not without its challenges. One of the key challenges is the lack of access to formal financial institutions in rural and remote areas. Many marginalized groups, particularly those living in rural areas, do not have access to formal financial institutions such as banks and insurance companies. This limits their ability to access financial services and can perpetuate poverty and exclusion.

Another challenge is the lack of financial literacy among marginalized groups. Many individuals, particularly those who are not well-educated or do not have access to formal financial institutions, may not understand how financial services work or how to use them effectively. This can limit their ability to take advantage of financial services and can lead to financial insecurity.

To address these challenges, policymakers in India must focus on developing innovative solutions that promote financial inclusion. For example, mobile banking and digital payment systems can help reach marginalized groups in remote areas and provide access to financial services.

Exploration and Evaluation of the impact of “Work From Home” on Family Relationships

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we work and live. We are now transitioning from traditional office hours to a new work-from-home culture. As companies grapple with the challenges of social distancing, they’re increasingly focusing on telecommuting and remote working. This is the new normal in the workplace, and it’s bringing with it many benefits.

For one, remote working eliminates the need for costly office space and commuting for employees. This can help companies save a significant amount of money, especially in big cities with high rent costs. It also allows employees to work from any location, giving them the flexibility to work from home, a vacation spot, or even a coffee shop.

Remote working also allows employees to better manage their own work-life balance. This can decrease levels of stress and fatigue, thereby increasing job performance and productivity. Even though it may be hard for some people to focus without the structure of an office environment, many more individuals find that the flexibility of remote working is beneficial to them.

Companies are also finding that allowing employees to work from home can have positive effects on office morale. With fewer distractions and more focused work, teams are able to collaborate more quickly and easily. This can lead to higher employee satisfaction and improved customer service.

The transition to work from home is an opportunity to re-evaluate the way we work and live. With the right tools and strategies, companies and employees can take advantage of the many benefits remote working offers. As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, this will likely be the new normal in the workplace.

Positive Impacts

  1. Increased Family Time: One of the most significant benefits of WFH is the increased amount of time that families can spend together. With the elimination of commutes, families can enjoy a more relaxed schedule and spend more quality time with each other.
  2. Improved Work-Life Balance: WFH allows individuals to balance their work and personal life more effectively. They can take care of household chores and attend to personal errands during the day, reducing stress and increasing overall satisfaction with their work-life balance.
  3. More Flexibility: WFH provides individuals with the flexibility to work from anywhere, at any time. This allows for a more relaxed and flexible schedule, leading to a reduced sense of stress and increased happiness.

Negative Impacts

  1. Increased Stress: While WFH has its benefits, it can also lead to increased stress. The boundaries between work and personal life can become blurred, leading to longer work hours and increased pressure to be available at all times.
  2. Decreased Quality of Family Time: While WFH allows for increased family time, it can also lead to decreased quality of that time. With work constantly in the background, it can be difficult for individuals to fully disconnect and enjoy quality time with their families.
  3. Isolation and Loneliness: WFH can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially for those who are used to working in a social environment. The lack of face-to-face interactions with colleagues and clients can be detrimental to mental health and overall well-being.

Conclusion

WFH has had a significant impact on family relationships, with both positive and negative consequences. While it has allowed for increased family time and improved work-life balance, it has also resulted in increased stress, decreased quality of family time, and feelings of isolation and loneliness. It is important for individuals to find a balance between work and personal life, setting clear boundaries and prioritizing their mental health and well-being. Overall, the impact of WFH on family relationships is complex and varied, and it is up to each individual to make the best of the situation and find a balance that works for them and their family.

SCHIZOPHRENIA

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Schizophrenia is a disorder of the brain in which the person has lost touch with reality, and has symptoms like delusions, hallucinations, and bizarre beliefs. A person with schizophrenia has only one personality. The ‘split’ refers to the fact that their thinking, feeling, and behavior may not be consistent/congruent with one another (e.g., laughing while recollecting a sad story).

Schizophrenia sometimes can cause a person to behave violently, but not all with schizophrenia are violent. It is only a small minority of violent persons. Even these people are not violent all the time; they may become violent mostly when they are very ill. After a proper diagnosis and appropriate medication, a person with schizophrenia is no more or less violent than a person who does not have the disorder. Improved patients who are on treatment are no more dangerous than the general population.

Symptoms of Schizophrenia –:

The symptoms are classified into 5 types Behavioural, cognitive, mood, psychological, speech

1. Behavioural: social isolation, disorganized behavior, aggression, agitation, compulsive behavior, excitability, hostility, repetitive movements, self-harm, or lack of restraint
2. Cognitive: thought disorder, delusion, amnesia, belief that an ordinary event has a special and personal meaning, belief that thoughts aren’t one’s own, disorientation, mental confusion, slowness in activity, or false belief of superiority
3. Mood: anger, anxiety, apathy, feeling detached from self, general discontent, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, elevated mood, or inappropriate emotional response
4. Psychological: hallucination, paranoia, hearing voices, depression, fear, persecutory delusion, or religious delusion
5. Speech: circumstantial speech, incoherent speech, rapid and frenzied speaking, or speech disorder

• Also common: are fatigue, impaired motor coordination, lack of emotional response, or memory loss.
• Triggers may include:
• stress
• drug misuse
• chronic alcohol use

Causes of schizophrenia –:

1. Genetics
2. Structural changes in the brain
3. Chemical changes in the brain
4. Pregnancy or birth complications
5. Childhood trauma
6. Previous drug use

Can you prevent schizophrenia?

Researchers don’t completely understand what causes schizophrenia, there’s no sure way to prevent it. However, if you’ve been diagnosed with this disorder, following your treatment plan can reduce the likelihood of relapse or worsening symptoms.

Do People with schizophrenia need to be cared for in a hospital ?

Not all people with schizophrenia need to be hospitalized. The family can care for the person at home, by understanding the disorder and learning what kind of support the person needs, while diligently following the advice of the mental health professionals.

Is schizophrenia caused by bad parenting or abuse during childhood ?

Schizophrenia is not caused by bad parenting or abuse. The occurrence of schizophrenia is linked to the structure of the brain, and other risk factors: genetic, physical, emotional, and social. Adolescence is a period where some structural changes take place in the brain. One of the theories is that due to some faulty disruption that happens in the brain during adolescence, the teenager may be more vulnerable to developing the illness if other risk factors are also present.

When to seek help ?

If you believe you or a loved one is showing signs of schizophrenia, it’s important to seek immediate treatment.
Keep these steps in mind as you seek help or encourage someone else to find help.


1. Remember that schizophrenia is a biological illness. Treating it is as important as treating any other illness.
2. Find a support system. Find a network you can rely on or help your loved one find one they can tap into for guidance. This includes friends, family, colleagues, and healthcare providers.
3. Check for support groups in your community. Your local hospital may host one, or they can help connect you to one.
4. Encourage continuing treatment. Therapy and medications help people lead productive and rewarding lives. You should encourage a loved one to continue treatment plans.

Treatment –:

Treatment includes medications and therapies –:


1. Medications – Antipsychotic and Anti-Tremor
2. Therapies – Support group, Rehabilitation, Cognitive therapy, Psychoeducation, Family therapy, Behaviour therapy, and Group psychotherapy

Schizophrenia is a lifelong condition. However, properly treating and managing your symptoms can help you live a fulfilling life. Recognizing strengths and abilities will help you to find activities and careers that interest you. Finding support among family, friends, and professionals can help you to reduce worsening symptoms and manage challenges.

Development of Rural Women in Vidarbha Region, Maharashtra

Credits- The guardian

The Vidarbha region of Maharashtra primarily consists of four major cities. Nagpur being the largest has a huge rural population which is deprived of stable sources of income and is riddled with social problems including alcoholism. The primary contributor to the alcoholism problem is the male population. Inadvertently, the women of the household have to take up the responsibility of earning the bread. In regions lacking educational infrastructure, women have to not only overcome sexism, misogyny and toxic masculinity to earn, but they also have to battle the unavailability of jobs and the unwillingness of employers to employ women just to keep the food on the table. Out of the 48 lakh unemployed people in Maharashtra, the Vidarbha region contributes 6 lakh of them. Although an older report, according to the 2013-14 Report on District Level Estimates for the state of Maharashtra, Nagpur reported 27% unemployment in urban areas and a staggering 55.3% in rural areas. As mentioned earlier, this was a relatively old statistic. However, going through the Covid-19 pandemic hasn’t done any good in the rural employment sector.

Taking the dire unemployment situation into consideration as well as considering the rising issue of alcoholism amongst the general male population in the region, it has also given rise to domestic violence, marital rape and sexual assault under influence. The Covid-19 pandemic and the Lockdown made this situation a lot worse as unemployment was peaking and the availability of alcoholic beverages was very low. Upon gathering statistics from an NGO called Aroha working for the development of rural women, it was found that domestic violence cases simply multiplied by 2.3 times during the first lockdown (March – July 2020). This is an extremely dire situation and it is continually worsening with the increase in economic disparity and water shortages reaching an all-time high. This is the time when the need to empower women to gain financial stability and independence is the most. The NGO Aroha has taken this as their mission and has been working towards training women in making handicraft items and selling them on an international market through powerful marketing and product development via their brand Rangers.

Rangers is a traditional eco-friendly, high-quality handicrafts store based in Nagpur which sells purses, handbags, lamp shades etc which are made by women from rural areas and all the profit is evenly divided between all women involved, contributing to their financial independence.

Aroha starts by enrolling women who are in dire need of financial assistance. They start by providing them with training in handcrafting, Warli art, stitching, embroidery and block printing. Then, once the women graduate with enough skills, they’re hired by Rangaresha which provides them with employment, stable income as well as incentives for them to work. Aroha is financially supported by Larsen & Toubro Ltd. Since 2004, Aroha steadfastly remained focused on the promotion of livelihoods, capacity-building initiatives and extending training support as well as surfacing as a resource agency for all of the above for the benefit of other allied agencies. With time self-help group formation activities were also undertaken. In the past 17 years, Aroha has helped 1739 women overcome poverty and has made them

capable of standing up for themselves and fighting back against years of oppression. Although the actual statistical data about profits and actual gross income from handicrafts remains unknown and the organisation didn’t provide that information, it is undeniable that the organisation and their vision had been successful in their initiative and continue to empower women to date.

INDIAN PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRIES IN THE TIMES OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC

By: Moksha Grover

As the whole world is suffering against the covid-19 pandemic, pharmaceutical industries all over the world are trying their level best to fight against these unprecedented times. The covid pandemic has actually benefitted the pharmaceutical industry and helped in the growth and development of this industry. The Indian pharmaceutical industry is the world’s third largest drug producer by volume and the country’s market manufactures 60 percent of vaccines globally[1]. This constitutes 40 to 70 percent of the supply to satisfy the World Health Organization’s (WHO) demand for Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DPT) and Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) vaccines and 90 percent of the global demand for the measles vaccine[2]. In this covid pandemic, the Indian pharmaceutical industry has played a vital role in distributing affordable and low-cost generic drugs to millions of people around the globe.

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF INDIAN PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRIES

The covid-19 pandemic presented several opportunities for the pharmaceutical companies and helped them to think differently. It helped them to act in a sense of urgency for all the patients who were looking for cheap and affordable medicines. In this pandemic, Indian companies have risen and developed in the field of therapeutics by re-purposing the dugs.

This pandemic also gave the pharmaceutical companies opportunities to work in collaborations with some major global companies for the purpose of developing the covid vaccine in turn enhancing the global connections. Serum Institute of India partnered with Oxford University, Zydus Cadila partnered with Gamaleya Institute of Russia, Panacea Biotec collaborated with US-based Refana Inc and there are many other companies who collaborated for the purpose of producing good and effective vaccines against the deadly virus. These collaborations and partnerships helped the companies to make effective vaccines, develop a stand in therapeutics, and also reach the global market.

Indian pharma industry took a proactive approach during the pandemic and also became successful in proving its mettle in complex and specialty generics. These companies also ensured regular manufacturing by not hindering manufacturing even for a single day. With the development in the pharma industry, eCommerce platforms and industries also developed. In the current pandemic, a great deal of motivation was given to E-pharmacy which helped in ensuring that patients received their medication despite lockdown. The domestic pharma market turnover in India has reached Rs. 1.4 lakh crores (equivalent to $ 20.03 billion) in 2019 as per the government data[3]. This is actually an increase from Rs. 1.29 lakh crores in 2018[4].

CHALLENGES FACED BY INDIAN PHARMACY INDUSTRIES DUE TO PANDEMIC

The source of APIs plays a very crucial role in the strategic plan of the Indian pharmaceutical industry to combat covid-19. A major challenge faced by this industry is the supply of APIs. Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) are defined as the active ingredients contained in a medicine. This pandemic has highlighted the dependence of the Indian pharma industry on imported APIs. Today, 60 percent of India’s API requirement is imported[5]. In commonly used APIs, such as cephalosporins, azithromycin, and penicillin, the dependence is as high as 90 percent [6].  Of the total imports of APIs and intermediates into India, China accounts for 65–70 percent [7]. This is a problem faced by almost the whole west depends upon china for their API supplies. This pandemic has also highlighted low healthcare coverage in India. n terms of healthcare spending, India has one of the lowest healthcare budgets with just 1.26 percent of GDP being spent on healthcare[8]. India ranks 155th out of the 167 countries in terms of hospital bed availability (as per the Human Development Report 2020) with just five beds available for every 10,000 Indians[9].  Such a sudden rise in covid cases in India highlighted the shortage of hospital beds, medicines, and availability of laboratory tests. As pandemics have always shifted the way people react. A similar change has been seen in the consumption pattern of various consumers. There has been an increase in the case of online ordering and e-consultations, especially in the case of chronic diseases. These challenges can result in long-term impacts on this industry.

STRATEGIES FOR PROMOTING INDIAN PHARMA PRODUCTION

Initiatives like Production Linked Incentives (PLI) schemes for bulk drugs and medical devices introduced by the government for the industry’s self-reliance have given a major boost to this industry. These incentives are to the tune of INR6,940 crore and INR3,420 crore, respectively, and encompass greenfield projects for bulk drugs and intermediates, and the establishment of three bulk drug parks[10]. In addition to this, the government should take some steps in removing the financial and technical barriers prevailing within this industry. This will in turn help in reducing the dependency of the Indian pharma industry on china for APIs.

The pharmaceutical companies have now identified the importance of backward integration which is expected to bring greater reliability, improve the quality of production, reduce dependence on external sources of supply, and help in increasing the efficacy of manufacturing. Several key representatives from the pharmaceutical industry and NITI Aayog have suggested fostering the approvals of pharmaceutical infrastructure developments, clearance from the environment ministry, and providing tax exemptions and subsidies for the development and promotion of the pharmaceutical industry hubs could benefit the market[11].

Over the last few years, many tourists have been visiting India for their medical treatment. The government has also relaxed rules for the tourists by issuing rapid airport clearances and fast-track medical visas, thus helping in the promotion of this industry.

CONCLUSION

This covid pandemic has been a boon to the Indian pharmaceutical industry. Medicine spending in India is expected to grow between 9-12 percent over the next five years, leading India to become one of the top 10 countries in terms of medical spending[12]. It is now important for all pharmaceutical companies to shift their product portfolio toward chronic diseases like covid drugs, antidepressants, anti-diabetes, cancers, etc. which are on the hike nowadays. Many initiatives have been taken up by the government to reduce healthcare expenses and make it affordable for the whole population of the country. The introduction of generic drugs has also paved the way for the benefit of pharma companies. It is now important to focus on the rural healthcare system and provide the rural areas with the necessary drugs and preventive vaccines. Doing so will help a lot in the development of pharma companies in India and will also lead to the development of the country as a whole.


[1] Dr Abhishek Dadhich, ‘The COVID-19 pandemic and the Indian pharmaceutical industry’, EPR (22 April,2020) < https://www.europeanpharmaceuticalreview.com/article/117413/the-covid-19-pandemic-and-the-indian-pharmaceutical-industry/> accessed 19th September 2021.

[2] Ibid.

[3] Dr Sujith Varma K, ‘Covid-19 impact on Indian pharmaceutical industry’, PHARMABIZ.COM (10th February, 2021) < http://www.pharmabiz.com/ArticleDetails.aspx?aid=135427&sid=9#:~:text=The%20domestic%20pharma%20market%20turnover,actually%20an%20increase%20from%20Rs.> accessed 19th September,2021.

[4] Ibid.

[5] Sanjay Singh, ‘Pharmaceuticals: emerging not just stronger, but better and smarter’, KPMG https://home.kpmg/in/en/home/insights/2021/04/indian-pharma-industry-boom-mantra.html accessed 19th September,2021.

[6] Ibid.

[7] Ibid.

[8] Ibid.

[9] Ibid.

[10] Ibid.

[11] Dr Sujith Varma K (n 3)

[12] Ibid.

Meditation – The Ultimate Nirvana

Modern age philosopher Osho maintains “No meditation, No life. Know meditation, Know life.” This quote holds cent per cent relevance in today’s time. In this modern day and age, the negative effects of stress are unavoidable. People have literally forgotten the way to live their life. They are extremely busy running after materialistic goals thereby fueling stress every day.

To cope with this stress, they have tried everything from exercise and diet to alternative methods like medicines. However, the most effective method to deal with stress is not one of these modern methods but rather a thousand years old idea of meditation. Meditation finds its root in many religions, primarily in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Hindu mythology is full of examples wherein normal human beings and sages meditated for years to gain higher spiritual powers. Through meditation, they have risen above the botherations and tensions of worldly life. They have aligned their souls with the almighty in their meditation.

Buddhist mythology explains ‘Nirvana’ through meditation. According to it, Lord Buddha reached enlightenment at the age of 35, awakening to the true nature of reality, which is ‘Nirvana’, the ‘Absolute Truth’. The word Nirvana comes from the

root meaning to blow out and refers to the extinguishing of the fires of greed,

hatred and delusion. When these emotions are destroyed by wisdom, the mind becomes free, radiant and joyful, and at death, one is no longer subject to rebirth. Nirvana is the ultimate happiness, which can be achieved through meditation. The basic principles and practices of meditation are rooted in Hinduism, which believes that the soul is eternal and maintains an eternal relationship with God. The aim of meditation is to quieten the thought waves of the mind.

Quietness can lead to more peace inside the mind. Meditation leads to tranquility and

purification from negative state of our mind, Infact, Buddha religiously believes

“Meditation brings wisdom, lack of meditation leaves ignorance.”

Meditation is very difficult to describe and can only truly be explained once experienced. It is the practice of mental concentration leading ultimately through a sequence of stages to the final goal of spiritual freedom called nirvana. Meditation can be compared with any sport, for example to a basketball game. Everyone can try to play this sport but only a few know the rules and the central dogma of the game. And the others just play the game as they assume it is like. So, it would be right to say that not everyone is able to practise meditation correctly.

Learning to meditate properly, however, is very difficult and must be done under the supervision of teachers. A person who has not practised meditation before, finds it difficult to understand the nature of his mind and may think he is meditating while his mind runs disorderly.

Just a mere 10-15 minutes practice of meditation each day can bring many positive results in the lives of the people. It can be practised anywhere and anytime. The first stage of meditation is to stop distractions and make the mind clearer and more lucid. This can be accomplished by practising a simple breathing meditation.

A quiet place is chosen to meditate and to sit in a comfortable position with closed eyes. Sitting in a traditional cross-legged manner is preferable. The most important thing is to keep the back straight to prevent the mind from becoming sluggish or sleepy. The main motto is to concentrate on breathing.

Breathing during meditation is done naturally, preferably through the nostrils, without attempting to control it, thereby trying to become aware of the sensation of the breath’s movement. This sensation is the object of meditation. Additionally, meditation should be practised with great discipline and awareness to obtain positive results, otherwise it can cause problems in psychological and spiritual well-being.

In recent years, scientists and doctors have shown interest in the effects that meditation has on people going through various situations. Infact, prestigious universities such as Harvard and Washington have invested their efforts in the research and have also come out with positive results. Meditation not only helps reduce the negative effects of stress, but also leads to a better sense of well-being by uniting mind and body.

Statistics on meditation in the Western culture have shown that people suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, depression, hypertension were treated with the help of meditation. Meditation provides benefits to all of the major forms of human existence: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.

A lot of famous people across the globe have started shifting to this practice religiously. They believe that through meditation, the mind is rejuvenated, the soul refreshed, nerves calmed and in general, one is at peace with oneself and the environment. Fortified by sessions of meditation, people have found they are able to face the tensions of the world with increased success. 

Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

For inclusive growth and employment, spending on social services as a share of GDP and investment in social infrastructure are of prime importance. The social sector pursues economic and social goals and is involved in providing social services to disadvantaged groups and communities, whether in urban or rural areas. Recent Economic Research focuses on social services including education, sport, arts and culture; public health and medical, family welfare; water supply and drainage and environmental sanitation; hotel; Urban Development; SC, ST and OBC welfare, labor and labor benefits; social security and welfare, nutrition, disaster relief, etc.

As education and health are two major areas of concern in the context of social sector development and human development achievements, this article explores their situation in India.

ISSUES REGARDING DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF SOCIAL SECTORS

In this regard, issues related to the development and management of social sectors/services are as follows:

1) Fundamental changes in the design of policies/programs needed to approach all segments of society.

2) Expand outreach equitably through people participation, outreach, use of technology, and direct transfer of benefits.

3) Access to education at all levels in rural and urban areas with necessary reforms of the education system to encourage career development.

4) Intensify efforts to impart skills needed to face the 4th industrial revolution, which is a fusion of the physical, digital and biological worlds.

5) An increase in total formal employment in the economy.

6) Challenges of providing both access to health care and access to quality health care nationally.

7) Construction rate of pucca structure housing in rural and urban areas.

EDUCATION

The liberalization of India’s economy has had a major impact on the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, with its economic growth accelerating f. The literacy rate has increased from 77.7% in 2020, while primary education universalization has largely been achieved and the dropout rate has decreased. However, despite significant progress, strong exclusions and disparities exist. Combining accessible affordability and quality assurance with good governance and adequate funding is always a concern.

HEALTH

Significant progress has also been made on the medical side, some diseases have been eradicated or are on the verge of eradication. There have been significant declines in the Index of Fertility (ISF) and the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), and life expectancy has fallen from 36.7 years in 1951 to 69.66 In 2019. These achievements are impressive, but at the same time, our failures are more prominent. As such, this volume brings together the contributions of leading Indian scholars on a wide range of social issues, including the link between growth, poverty, and the social sector; efficiency of social sector spending in India; disparities in health status; Protecting IPRs in Health Innovations; pollution and health; universal primary education; problems encountered at higher education levels; and child labor issues.

ROLE OF CONSTITUTION IN ENSURING ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

The right to health is not directly included as a fundamental right in the Constitution of India. The maker of the Constitution placed this obligation on the State to ensure economic and social justice. The fourth part of the Indian constitution is the Directive Principles of State Policy which has imposed obligations on the states. If we just look at these terms, we see that some of them are directly or indirectly related to public health. The Indian constitution does not stipulate the right to health care as a fundamental right. The Constitution orders the State to take measures to improve the health care conditions of the people. Thus, the preamble of the Constitution of India, among other things, aims to ensure social and economic justice for all its citizens. It provides a framework for achieving the goals set out in the introduction. The preamble is amplified and developed in the Guiding Principles of State Policy.

Article 38 of the Indian Constitution places on the state the responsibility that states must ensure social order to promote the welfare of the people, but without public health we cannot achieve this. this. This means that without public health, everyone’s happiness is impossible. Article 39(e) concerned workers to protect their health. Article 41 imposes on the State the obligation to provide public assistance mainly to the sick and disabled. Article 42 provides for the protection of the health of children and mothers through the maternity regime. In India, the guiding principle of state policy under Article 47 states that the primary duty of the state is to improve public health, ensure justice, the human condition at work, and prolong time sickness, old age, disability and maternity benefits are also being considered. In addition, state duties include the prohibition of intoxication and drugs harmful to health. Section 48A ensures that the state strives to protect and enforce a pollution-free environment for good health.

PCOS

PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. You might heard people saying it. It has become common among women these days. For every 5 women 1 woman is a PCOS fighter.

Causes

PCOS is a lifestyle disorder thus happens when your body is abused by your own self. Some of the ways are:

•weight gain

•stress

•disturbed sleep cycle

•not taking food on time

• unhealthy food intake

Treatment

Although Doctors give the medications and pills to reset your periodic cycle,it is still advisable to not be solely dependent on chemicals as they tend to have lifelong effects on your body.

Instead go for the long and tough route that is do exercise regularly, have enough sleep and maintain the cycle, eat healthy and eat whole meal foods , have cow ghee everyday a a bit .

If done properly and if the body is taken good care of without medications you will have your periodic cycle regulated .

Fear of Future

Fear of future is a negative word let’s call ourselves Forward Thinkers . Yes, forward thinkers are the ones who are always worried about what will happen in future.

If you are in school , you must be wondering what will I study in college, which career will make me more money , what if I don’t clear entrance, etc. If you are in college and you didn’t get into your dream college you are already dreading about your life by thinking of all the self sabotaging thoughts.

Well these thinkings if asked to an experienced person who has already lived his life will say that – ” Having worries and sleepless nights over future worries is a good sign that you are in a right path ” . It means you know that the life that you crave for will not come merely from attending college. You know that wasting time and money with friends who won’t contribute you in anyway is serious damage to your future. You are very much aware and that itself stands you out of the crowd.

A person who worries is more prone to take steps rather than the one who doesn’t. You are already more mature than your peers. You are already embracing the struggle in you and fighting to remove the worry. So keep that fire of worry in you alive and take that action today because the life that you crave for won’t come in a day it will come after many years of sleepless and ruthless nights.

Yoga for Everyone

Yoga : Its Origin, History and Development

Yoga is a collection of physical, mental, and spiritual activities that originated in ancient India that aim to control and still the mind the mind by recognizing a detached witness-consciousness that is unaffected by the mind or ordinary sorrow.

The name ‘Yoga’ comes from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj,’ which means ‘to join, yoke, or unify.’ Yoga, according to Yogic texts, leads to the union of individual consciousness with that of the Universal Consciousness, implying complete harmony between the mind and body, as well as between Man and Nature. Everything in the universe, according to modern scientists, is just a manifestation of the same quantum firmament. A yogi is someone who has experienced this oneness of existence and has attained the state of freedom known as mukti, nirvana, or moksha. As a result, the goal of Yoga is to achieve Self-realization, which leads to ‘the state of liberation’ (Moksha) or ‘freedom’ (Kaivalya).

Yoga’s beginnings may be traced back over 5,000 years to northern India. The Rig Veda, an old sacred scripture, is where the word yoga first appeared. Yoga is one of Hinduism’s six schools of philosophy, and it’s also a big part of Buddhism’s meditation practices.

Terminology of Yoga

Here are a few words you could hear during a yoga practice and what they mean:
Āsana
An Āsana is a body posture that includes reclining, standing, inverted, twisting, and balancing poses. It was originally and still is a general term for a sitting meditation pose, but it was later extended in hatha yoga and modern yoga as exercise to any type of position, including balancing, twisting, and balancing poses.

Prānāyāma
In Sanskrit, Prānāyāma refers to the life energy that pervades all living things. The term Prānāyāma is used in modern-day yoga sessions to describe breathing exercises that erase physical and mental blockages in our bodies to release the breath.

Yoga Postures

When you first begin practising yoga, there will be specific postures that will form the foundation of your practice. You may receive the benefits of yoga by anchoring your practice with these postures: flexibility, greater muscle strength, spine protection, increased blood flow, and even improved happiness.

It is believed that there are 19 different types of yoga and 66 basic yoga postures. Some of the basic postures are:

  1. ŚĪRṢĀSANA – HEADSTAND
    You balance on your elbows, arms, and head in this asana. The Headstand is the first in the sequence and is known as the “King of āsanas” due to its numerous benefits. “Head-stand is a panacea, a cure-all, a sovereign specific for all diseases,” Swami Sivananda said.
  2. SARVĀṄGĀSANA – SHOULDERSTAND
    With the body resting on the shoulders, this is an inverted stance. Sarvangāsana denotes totality. Sarvangāsana, also known as the “Queen of āsanas,” strengthens the entire body. Because the chin is forced on the throat in this position, the thyroid gland is regulated, which in turn balances all other glands in the body, ensuring that all bodily systems and organs function properly.
  3. HALĀSANA – PLOUGH
    A plough-like stance with hands and feet on the floor. Its name comes from the Sanskrit word hala, which means plough. Halasana strengthens and tones the spine, as well as correcting a pronounced lower back curvature (lordosis). As the abdominal organs are massaged, it reduces problems like indigestion and constipation.
  4. MATSYĀSANA – FISH
    Matsyāsana posture is resting on the arms, arching the back and expanding the chest. The name Matsyāsana comes from the fact that it allows one to float in water like a fish. This posture promotes improved lung capacity and better breathing, which aids in the treatment of respiratory illnesses such as chronic bronchitis and asthma.
  5. PAŚCIMOTTĀNĀSANA – SITTING FORWARD BEND
    Paścimottānāsana Posture is stretching the spine forward. This seemingly simple pose is one of the most powerful and significant of all postures. It relieves the pressure on the spine generated by standing erect. Continuous practice helps to keep the back supple, the joints mobile, the nervous system energized, and the internal organs toned. It also helps to prevent diabetes by massaging the pancreas naturally.
  6. BHUJAṄGĀSANA – COBRA
    This posture is arching the upper body and expanding the chest. This position enhances flexibility, rejuvenates spinal nerves, and provides a rich blood supply to the spine by arching the spine. It helps to support the neck and upper back.
  7. ŚALABHĀSANA – LOCUST
    Śalabhāsana Posture is lying on the front with lifted legs. Śalabhāsana improves the operation of the intestines, strengthens the abdominal walls, and improves digestion. This posture enhances cervical flexibility and helps lower back pain and sciatica by bending the spine backwards. This posture aids in the development of willpower.
  8. DHANURĀSANA – BOW
    Dhanurāsana Posture is balancing on the abdomen in the shape of a bow. The benefits of Cobra and Locust positions are combined and enhanced in Dhanurāsana. This posture increases flexibility in the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral regions by working on the entire spine. It massages and energizes the digestive organs, which aids in the treatment of a variety of diseases. Another good āsana for women because it helps with menstrual difficulties.
  9.  ARDHA MATSYENDRĀSANA – HALF SPINAL TWIST
    Ardha Matsyendrāsana Posture is a twist for the entire spine. This asana is named after Matsyendranath, a renowned yogi. The Half Spinal Twist increases the mobility of the spine by twisting the vertebrae in both directions. In this position, the abdominal organs receive a deep massage, which helps to relieve digestive disorders.
  10. KAKĀSANA – CROW
    Kakāsana Posture is balancing in a squatting position. Kakāsana helps to strengthen the arm, wrists, and shoulders while also stretching the hips. It improves concentration and fosters mental and physical balance, as do all balancing poses.
  11. PĀDAHASTĀSANA – STANDING FORWARD BEND
    Pādahastāsana is a bending forward in a standing position. Pādahastāsana stretches the spine and mobilizes the joints, making it more elastic. It improves the neurological system by increasing blood flow to the brain. Standing Forward Bend is an exercise that promotes eternal youth.
  12. TRIKOṆĀSANA – TRIANGLE
    Posture is a lateral bend resembling a triangle. Trikonansa’s lateral stretch elongates the spine and improves hip and leg flexibility. The circulatory system is stimulated, the liver and spleen are massaged, and the digestive tract’s peristalsis is boosted. Other asanas improve as the body becomes lighter.

The Perfect Body

All day all night we hear people talk how important it is to have a healthy body and heart. How companies market their products on the prospect of delivering a healthy and fit body, mind and heart. But all these advertisement, marketing etc, are they really about the healthy body? Or are they only about the perfect body? The body which is popularly accepted and appreciated view of a healthy body is taken as the perfect body. Ever since the beginning of the human life, individuals have been involved in various physical activities not just to feed them self but also to stay healthy and fit and in this light the GYM culture was born. But as time progressed and humans got an understanding of beauty and gorgeous body they started with the obsession of having and making other people know about their perfect body. This obsession could be more dangerous than any other addiction.

Bollywood Influence=

As beings grow up and realise that the bollywood culture is all about the body that could serve as the apt body for a dancer, a model, an actor, they start struggling for this body. The bollywood influences not only the perspective a person has about overall aspect of perfect body but also they serve as the base for the self complex that people face after they find out that getting the perfect body isn’t a true reality but sometimes rather a myth. The actors toil hard in getting their shape right for all the right reasons of portraying their best selves but as they devote their entire time for it, it might look effortless to achieve. But when individuals fail in getting near to that perfect body they start hating themselves and end up with their worst self, not physically but mentally.

Societal Pressures=

However blaming bollywood for every other thing isn’t the goal. But rather is to highlight the fact that bollywood gets its movies from the society around and hence, it is actually the society that manifests a type of body as the perfect body. We see older men and women commenting mercilessly on the younger generations’ body and eating habits. Though correcting them for their wrongs might be okay sometimes but completely rejecting their bodies for they do not serve rightly on their perception of perfect body is erroneous. They body shame not the ones who are overweight or underweight but even the one who discard their standard of beauty and perfectness. The uncles and aunties in the mask of wanting the welfare of the children of their ‘family’ stoop low to another level.

Self love=

Today with people coming out with their stories of distress and anxiety because of the kind of body they have, many organisations and individuals have been promoting the values of body positivity and self love. Body positivity is about accepting who you are and loving thee body as god made it. Though exercising might help in increasing stamina and keeping you happy and healthy but body positivity is about exercising with the love for the body and not the hate, it is about working out for own happiness and not because our body is flawed. Self love is actually the key to the perfect body- a body that is healthy, free of diseases, with a happy heart and liberated mind.

International Day Of Yoga

2021 Theme: Yoga for well-being
The Day will be marked at a time when COVID-19 pandemic continues to upend lives and livelihoods of people globally.

Beyond its immediate impact on physical health, the COVID-19 pandemic has also exacerbated psychological suffering and mental health problems, including depression and anxiety, as pandemic-related restrictions continue in various forms in many countries. This has highlighted the urgent need to address the mental health dimension of the pandemic, in addition to the physical health aspects.

The message of Yoga in promoting both the physical and mental well-being of humanity has never been more relevant. A growing trend of people around the world embracing Yoga to stay healthy and rejuvenated and to fight social isolation and depression has been witnessed during the pandemic. Yoga is also playing a significant role in the psycho-social care and rehabilitation of COVID-19 patients in quarantine and isolation. It is particularly helpful in allaying their fears and anxiety.

Recognizing this important role of Yoga, this year’s commemoration of the International Day of Yoga focuses on “Yoga for well-being” – how the practice of Yoga can promote the holistic health of every individual.

The United Nations offers yoga resources to its personnel and others on the COVID-19 portal’s section on Wellness.

The World Health Organization mentions yoga as a means to improve health in its Global action plan on physical activity 2018–2030: more active people for a healthier world.

UNICEF says kids can practice many yoga poses without any risk and get the same benefits that adults do. These benefits include increased flexibility and fitness, mindfulness and relaxation.

2021 virtual event
The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations invites you to an online celebration of the 7th annual International Yoga Day on 21 June 2021, from 8:30 to 10:00 am EST, broadcast live on UN WebTV.

The event opened with messages from the President of the United Nations General Assembly and the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, which was followed by demonstrations of Yoga exercises (asanas) to improve physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and an interactive panel discussion on “Yoga for well-being.”

What is Yoga and why do we celebrate it?
Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.

Today it is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity.

Recognizing its universal appeal, on 11 December 2014, the United Nations proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga by resolution 69/131.

The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.

The draft resolution establishing the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India and endorsed by a record 175 member states. The proposal was first introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address during the opening of the 69th session of the General Assembly, in which he said: “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action … a holistic approach [that] is valuable to our health and our well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.”

The resolution notes “the importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health.” In this regard, the World Health Organization has also urged its member states to help their citizens reduce physical inactivity, which is among the top ten leading causes of death worldwide, and a key risk factor for non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes.

But yoga is more than a physical activity. In the words of one of its most famous practitioners, the late B. K. S. Iyengar, “Yoga cultivates the ways of maintaining a balanced attitude in day-to-day life and endows skill in the performance of one’s actions.”

REFERENCE : UNITED NATONS

Plastic Waste Management

Introduction

Plastic waste management is a collective term for various approaches and strategies used to recycle plastic materials that would otherwise be dumped into landfills, or bodies of water, or otherwise contaminate the environment. The idea behind this type of waste management is to utilize those discarded materials to manufacture new plastic products without the need to actually generate additional plastic materials. Doing so can help lower production costs as well as protect the environment.

Many different types of industries participate in some type of plastic waste management process. Some are specifically geared toward collecting plastic items for recycling. For example, many supermarkets encourage customers to contribute unwanted plastic bags into a recycling container located near the front of the store. The collected bags are then forwarded to recycling centres where the material is processed for use in the production of new products made from the recycled plastic.

Businesses that produce plastic products also engage in the task of plastic waste management. This often focuses on finding ways to recycle or reuse excess plastic that is discarded as units of different goods are produced. These plastic remnants can often be collected and ran through an internal recycling process to create additional products for sale. Not only does this approach prevent the disposal of the used materials into a landfill, it also allows the company to lower the actual cost associated with manufacturing each unit of its product line.

In some cases, businesses outsource the process of plastic waste management. Contracting with a waste management company makes it possible for unwanted plastic items to be collected and removed from the premises without expending additional company resources. Municipalities sometimes work with a waste management disposal company in creating plastic recycling programs that allow households to conveniently dispose of plastic milk jugs, broken plastic toys, and other plastic items without placing them into the trash. Depending on the nature of the arrangement with the plastic waste management company, the municipality may actually earn a small amount from the arrangement, creating another stream of revenue for the city or town that can be used to fund services offered to residents.

Any type of plastic waste management must be conducted in compliance with regulations set by local, state, and federal governments. This includes using recycling methods that are considered to be environmentally friendly, and that are not likely to create health risks for individuals living and working in the community. Since regulations regarding recycling vary somewhat from one jurisdiction to another, it is important to determine what is and is not allowed before establishing any type of ongoing program to deal with plastic waste.

References : infobloom

Havoc caused by Omicron variant of COVID-19 at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru

After the fast-spreading of Omicron variant of COVID-19 in the various parts of the world, a new terror has been emerged in the people of the country. So far, two positive cases of Omicron* variant have been detected in Karnataka.

To reduce the spreading of this variant in different parts of the country, the Health Ministry of the country has been advising the states and union territories to strictly check upon the international passengers who have been coming from ‘at risk’ countries.

International passengers coming from ‘at risk’ countries are advised to go for RT-PCR* test. Only after the reports of their tests are available, they are allowed to step out from the airport. This situation created a lot of chaos in Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on Wednesday, December 1. Long queues were witnessed at the airport due to the guidelines regarding the mandatory RT-PCR test of the international passengers at the airport passed down by Union Health Ministry.

Only four doctors and 25 staffers were deployed at the airport according to the reports. Moreover, there was only one testing counter located for screening the passengers. A lot of passengers showed their discomforts during the testing through various social media handles.

Among those passengers, Raja Andukondan was also the one who faced issues while testing. He raised his complaints through his Twitter handle.

He stated, “@BLRAirport As one of the passengers on the very first flight which landed after 00:00hrs, it was horrible. Clearly the lab Auriga Research was not at all prepared. Who can I contact for a refund of my cost for the Rapid PCR test? Results were promised in 1 hr but took 3+ hrs”.

According to the current guidelines, passengers coming from ‘at risk’ countries have to go through post-arrival testing and will be isolated in case the reports turn out to be positive.

Due to the fast-spreading of Omicron variant of COVID-19, all the residents of India are advised to ensure their safety and not to take it lightly in any case. It is to be hoped that all the people will be able to overcome this crisis very soon with their own vigilance.

*Omicron variant –

It is a new variant of COVID-19 that has been kicked-off in South Africa. A sudden surge of positive cases broke out among the university students. At first, scientists mistook this omicron variant in the students as delta variant. But after the research, the omicron variant was found out with a lot of mutations which stirred up a chaos among the scientists. On 24 November, this variant was reported to World Health Organisation. According to WHO, this variant poses a ‘very high risk’. Following different reports, it is to be said that this variant could be the most contagious one to be ever known in the history.

*RT-PCR test-

Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) is the test where an enzyme called reverse transcriptase used to change the piece of RNA into a same matching piece of DNA. This method is used to detect the specific genetic material in any pathogen. It is one of the widely used methods to detect the COVID-19 virus in a diseased body.

Habits of successful people that you can take up. 

Getting ahead or wealthy in life can be challenging. There are certain daily habits one must follow to achieve success. These habits enable people to use their potential and get things done on time. Many successful and wealthy people are said to have followed or maintained these habits to get to where they are today. So let us do ourselves a favor today by learning about some of these habits. 

1.Positive Attitude

This is an image for positive attitude.
Photo by Andres Ayrton on Pexels.com

Everyday isn’t going to be a bliss in our lives. Instead, each day brings with it a challenge and problem of its own. But we don’t have to be upset or defeated by them. A positive attitude is one of the key habits of successful people that you can adopt. It is the habit of finding positive attributes in every challenge you face. 

You might be overwhelmed and swamped with problems in your lives, but the idea that one day you will emerge as a resilient and a strong person after going through them can be relatively less draining.

After all, we can only control our reactions and not our circumstances. 

2. Sharing

This is an image of sharing.
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com

The path to success is not always about solitude. It requires you to share your ideas with others and even help others. One doesn’t have to be super rich to help or share with people around them. You can share your ideas with people that can benefit you as well as them. Volunteering for a cause is also a great idea of helping and sharing with your community. 

3. Reading

This is an image of reading.
Photo by Dayan Rodio on Pexels.com

J.K. Rowling says that she used to read anything that comes her way as a child. She states that one must read as much as possible as nothing is as rewarding as reading. Today there are books, e-books and blogs being written on every possible field. You can read from a wide range of reading materials based on your fields of interest. 

Reading also helps you develop your vocabulary. You can post or publish your own writings based on the knowledge and vocabulary you have gained by your readings. 

4. Being frugal

This is an image of being frugal.
Photo by Katie Harp on Pexels.com

Frugality is the habit of being cautious with expenditures. Successful people are very thrifty with their money and resources. They draw comparisons while making deals or purchases and find ways to save money. It is also known as being economical. Economically spending can result in reduction of wastage on resources and money. Thus leading to efficiency. 

5. Rising Early

This is an image for rising early.
Photo by Josh Hild on Pexels.com

Success and wealth has often been associated with the habit of rising early. Early risers can devote more time to their work and get more things done. It is again one of the key habits of successful people that you can adapt. There are several benefits of rising early in the morning such as:

  1. Enhancement of organisation skills as you plan your day ahead under a peaceful and calm environment in the mornings. 
  2. Rising early gives you enough time to prepare a healthy breakfast which is important to carry on the following tasks of the day. 
  3. Rising early puts you at the advantage of being on time. You get the following tasks of the day done without any delay. 
  4. Finally, early rising also helps you sleep early without leaving you watching your phone during midnight. 

These are some of the habits of successful people you can adopt to be successful yourself. 

Myths about Covid19

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illnesses. Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age.

Myths about Covid19

  • Can Covid-19 be transmitted through goods produced in countries where there is ongoing transmission?

Although it can last on surfaces for many hours, the environment, transportation, and varying temperatures during shipment make it difficult for the virus to remain active. If you feel the surface may be contaminated, clean it with a disinfectant and wash your hands after touching it.

  • Can Covid-19 be transmitted through mosquitoes?

There is no evidence that the novel coronavirus can be transmitted through mosquitoes. The virus can be spread through droplets from coughing, sneezing or a patient’s saliva.

  • How can we be sure that our clothes don’t spread coronavirus 2019?

Besides showering every day, you should wash your clothes using detergent or soap in 60-90 ํC water or add bleach. Dry the clothes in a high-temperature dryer or the sun.

  • Can drinking alcohol help prevent Covid-19?

Drinking alcohol, such as beer, liquor, wine doesn’t help prevent coronavirus. You should wash your hands often, wear masks, and avoid being close to those with a fever and cough.

  • Is it true that Covid-19 is transmitted in a cold climate and not in a hot and humid climate?

Coronavirus 2019 can be transmitted in any kind of climate. Wherever you are, no matter what kind of climate, you have to practice personal hygiene, i.e. wash your hands often, cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough, and wear masks.

  • Can digital thermometers be 100% effective in detecting Covid-19 patients?

It may take the virus 1-14 days to incubate and cause symptoms like fever, so it cannot be used to identify asymptomatic patients.

  • Can UV bulbs use for disinfecting be used to kill Covid-19 on our body?

Don’t use UV bulbs on your hands or any part of the body because UV light can irritate your skin.

  • Can spraying alcohol or chlorine on your body kill the virus inside?

Besides not being able to kill the virus inside your body, it could damage clothes and other tissues like eyes and lips.

  • Can eating garlic prevent covid-19?

Though garlic has some anti-microbial properties, there is no evidence that it can prevent Covid-19.

  • Can Pneumonia vaccine prevent Covid-19?

This virus is new and different from other strains. We need a vaccine that is developed specifically. The research team is working on this through the support of the WHO.

  • Can rinsing your nose regularly with saline solution prevent Covid-19?

Evidence has indicated that rinsing your nose with saline solution can help us recover faster from the common cold, but cannot prevent infectious respiratory diseases or Covid-19.

  • Is there any drug that can prevent and treat Covid-19?

At present, no drug can prevent and treat the disease. Patients should receive proper and supportive care to alleviate the symptoms. WHO is accelerating research with all the partners to actively study the treatment for the disease.

References: WHO(World Health Organisation) 

YOGA – ORIGIN AND BENEFITS

Yogasana has its roots in ancient India. The Rig Veda, a sacred book for the Indian Hindu community, mentioned the word Yoga, for the very first time, around 5,000 years ago. The word was coined from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’, which means to join or to unite. Yoga is among the six schools of philosophy of Hinduism and is also a major part of Buddhism. The practice of Yoga is considered as a subtle harmony between the mind and the body. This science was developed by the ancient sages to overcome all kinds of sufferings and attain Moksha (liberation). The Hindu God Shiva, is called as the ‘Adiyogi’ for being the first preacher of Yoga. He was the supreme one to spread the knowledge of the bodily art form among the saints, who later took it across various places and people. Later on, the Brahmanic scholars, documented these practices in the Upanishads (Indian Sacred Literature). The westerners believed Yoga to be postured based physical activity which helps relieve stress. Yoga is also classified by different religions, into different forms such as Classical Yoga, Advaita Vedanta, Buddhist Yoga, Jain Yoga, Tantric Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Laya Yoga, etc.

Practice Of Yogasanas is extremely beneficial in several ways :

  • Yoga does help in attaining a sufficient level of flexibility. In the beginning, one may feel a pull in their hamstrings or tendons. But gradually, over hours of dedicated practice, one can attain flexibility, which is essential for a good posture.
  • Yoga helps in maintaining a stable heart rate. Practice of yoga daily, improves cardiovascular functioning. People who are engaged into Pranayama (breathing exercise) on a regular basis are able to perform several activities even with a lesser amount of oxygen supply.
  • Yoga helps one to calm the mind and relax the senses. Thus, a calmness in mind, in turn helps in better concentration. This assists in improvement of the I.Q levels and helps maintain a steady focus.
  • Yoga along with breathing techniques such as Ocean Breathing can help cure Insomnia. It can help a person to fall asleep quicker than usual, sleep for a longer duration and feel relaxed after waking up.
  • Yoga is also beneficial for boosting one’s self esteem and confidence. It trains a person to be more patient, maintain perseverance and gives the strength to work tiredlessly towards one’s goal.
  • Yoga tends to make people happier. According to various reports, even a single class can begin to change your brain chemistry. The increased blood flow in the body, helps keep Cortisol (a stress hormone) at bay. Thus, all of this adds up to making a person happy.

Yoga can be termed as a medicine that can cure nearly every human problem. Lifelong commitment to Yoga can improve mental and physical well being. The Bhagvad Gita states, “Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” Imparting knowledge about Yoga, shall begin from the foundation years of children, to inculcate lifelong values of discipline and endurance in them.

Tobacco Smoking in India

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Smoking is already a major health problem in India, one that will worsen if we do not take action. Nearly ten lakh deaths are attributed to smoking alone in India each year. About one-third of Indian men now smoke; as many women as men do. The risks for both are the same. The majority of tobacco-related deaths occur in middle age and not just in old age.

In India, it is common to chew tobacco products such as gutka. Over half of all oral cancer deaths result from chewing, and women are particularly hard hit. Younger people are chewing more, and precancerous conditions such as mouth lesions are on the rise.

Chewing is common among both men and women all over the world. The percentage of people chewing tobacco products in India is 31% for men and 19% for women, but the number is much higher in Bihar at 69% and 22% for men and women, respectively. Pregnant women who smoke lead to low-birth-weight babies, stillbirths, and birth defects.

According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey India 2010, chewing is more prevalent among the poorest. The poorest 30 percent of people chew tobacco products. The middle income is 25 percent, and the highest income is 15 percent. Oral cancer is more likely to kill women who chew tobacco. In the 30-69 age group, three percent of women and one percent of men are at the relative risk of dying from chewing. Oral cancer has a higher relative risk of death among women, but men have a higher background death rate, so the absolute risks are more equal.

Kishanganj has 1,00,000 men ages 15-69, of whom 50,000 will die from smoking. Seventy percent of people will die between the ages of 15 and 69, while thirty percent will die in old age. In 2015, there were 59% more men who smoked in Bihar than in previous years. 612 lakh men who smoke cigarettes lose 10 years of life whereas 687 lakh men who smoke bidis lose 6 years of life. The use of tobacco is not only a public health threat, but also an economic burden on our country’s health care systems, forcing them to spend a lot of money treating diseases that are largely preventable. In addition to the cost of treating serious diseases like cancer or stroke, tobacco use also affects individual families.

28,000 Kishanganj residents are forced into poverty by tobacco use each year. Almost Rs. 11 crores are spent each year on tobacco in the district. Tobacco control laws are implemented in part by the police. A staggering 350 police officers will be killed by tobacco at ages 15-69 out of 1000 who smoke. Stopping smoking is one of the most important things smokers can do to extend their lives and improve their health. Nonetheless, India has very low quit rates of 5%. Nearly all the risks can be avoided by quitting by 40 and preferably earlier. The amount of carbon dioxide in the air decreases and oxygen levels increase after quitting within 12 hours. The risk of heart attacks drops and lung functions improve within three months. With 1 year, the risk of sudden heart attack is cut in half, and with 5 years, the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and bladder is halved. According to Section 4 of the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), smoking in public places is prohibited wherever the general public has access, whether by right or otherwise, but does not include open spaces. Additionally, smoking is prohibited in open areas that are visited by the public such as auditoriums, stadiums, stations, and bus stops. The fine for smoking in public places can range from Rs 200 to Rs 500.

Origin Of Yoga In India

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As Yoga’s sacred texts are passed down orally and its teachings are regarded as secretive, the history of Yoga is obscure and uncertain in many places. Yoga was originally written on fragile palm leaves that were easily damaged, destroyed, or lost. Over 5,000 years ago, yoga was developed, but some researchers believe that yoga may be as old as 10,000 years. There are four main periods of innovation, practice, and development in the history of yoga.

  • A Preclassical Yoga practices

Yoga originated in Northern India over 5,000 years ago with the Indus-Sarasvati civilization. Yoga was first mentioned in the oldest sacred text, the Rig Veda. Vedas were a collection of texts containing songs, mantras, and rituals that were used by Brahmans, the Vedic priests. The Brahmans and Rishis (mystic seers) refined and developed yoga gradually, recording their practices and beliefs in upanishads, a huge work containing over 200 scriptures. In the Upanishads, the concept of ritual sacrifice was internalized, teaching the sacrifice of the ego through self-knowledge, action (karma yoga), and wisdom (jnana yoga).

  • The Classical Stage of Yoga

During the pre-classical stage, yoga was a mishmash of ideas, beliefs, and practices that often contradicted one another. Yoga-Sûtras, Patanjali’s first systematic presentation of yoga, mark the end of the Classical period. RAJA YOGA, sometimes called classical yoga, was described in this text around the second century. Many stages and steps lead to enlightenment in Patanjali’s “eight-limbed path” of yoga. He is often considered the father of yoga and his Yoga-Sûtras still influence most styles of modern yoga.

  • Post-Classical Yoga

Yogic practices were created following Patanjali’s teachings a few centuries after Patanjali’s. The ancient Vedas were rejected in favor of embracing the physical body as the means of attaining enlightenment. To break the knots that bind us to our physical existence, Tantric Yoga, with its radical techniques, was developed. Exploring these physical-spiritual connections and body-centered practices led to the creation of what we primarily think of as yoga in the West: Hatha Yoga.

  • Modern Period

The western world began to receive yoga masters’ attention and followers during the late 1800s and early 1900s. A turning point for this occurred when Swami Vivekananda lectured on yoga and the universality of the world’s religions during the 1893 Parliament of Religions in Chicago. Hatha Yoga was strongly promoted in India during the 1920s and 1930s by T. Kumaramacharya and Swami Sivananda, among others. On the banks of the holy Ganges on the banks of Mysore, Krishnamacharya opened his first Hatha Yoga school in 1924, and Sivananda founded the Divine Life Society in 1936. Sri Krishnamacharya produced three students who would continue his legacy and increase the popularity of Hatha Yoga: B.K.S. Iyengar, T.K.V. Desikachar, and Pattabhi Jois. Among Sivananda’s accomplishments, he wrote more than 200 books and built numerous ashrams and yoga centers worldwide. Until Indra Devi opened her yoga studio in Hollywood in 1947, yoga importation to the West continued at a trickle. Since then, many more western and Indian teachers have popularized hatha yoga and gained millions of followers. Now, there are many different styles of Hatha Yoga, all emphasizing different aspects of the practice.

Top Medical Colleges in India

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India is known for its contribution to medicine. Since the ancient times, traditional medicines like Ayurveda, Unani, and homeopathy have been prevalent. Apart from this, the status of allopathy has been equivalented as well. Every year, India graduates millions of well-qualified doctors. As an ode to the exceptional quality of medical education in India, here are a few top medical colleges in India –

  1. All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi

All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi is a public hospital and medical research university based in New Delhi, India. The institute is governed by the AIIMS Act, 1956 and operates autonomously under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. AIIMS is considered the best institution of India in the field of medicine. A few undergraduate programs offered by AIIMS are Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), Bachelor of Science, Nursing, Allied Sciences. Post graduate programs are – Doctor of Medicine (MD), Master of Surgery (MS), Master of Dental surgery (MDS), Doctorate of Medicine (DM). All undergraduate admissions would be taken up only through a single national level examination NEET-UG conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency).

  • Armed forces medical college, Pune

The Armed Forces Medical College is a leading medical training institute in Pune, India, in the state of Maharashtra. The college is managed by the Indian Armed Forces, ranked among the best medical colleges in India throughout and 34th best globally by CEO World Magazine: 2021. The Armed Force Medical College doesn’t conduct any separate entrance exam for the admission; Candidates must qualify the NEET examination to get admission. The courses offered are MBBS, post graduate courses, super-speciality, and para-medical courses. It is also a premier institute for research.

  • King George’s Medical University, Lucknow.

King George’s Medical University is a medical school, hospital, and medical university located in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. The medical school was raised to a medical university by an act passed by the government of Uttar Pradesh on 16 September 2002. Apart from the top-notch quality of education that they provide, they have one of the most beautiful campus in India. Situated in a majestic white building, the college looks nothing less than a palace. With a green lush lawn in the centre, it offers a relaxing place for the already exhausted medical students. King George V, then the Prince of Wales, laid the foundation stone of King George’s Medical College in 1906. It has four main faculties – Faculty of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Institute of Paramedical Sciences, and Institute of Nursing. The University has about 1250 undergraduate students (including 280 dental students) and 450 postgraduate students.

  • Madras Medical College, Chennai

It was established on 2 February 1835 during British Raj. It is the third oldest medical college in India, established after Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research and Calcutta Medical College. Madras Medical College was ninth among medical colleges in India by The Week in 2019. The College of Pharmacy was ranked 57 in India by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) pharmacy ranking in 2020. Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital (RGGGH)Park Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Government Dental CollegePark Town, Chennai, Barnard Institute of Radiology, Park Town, Chennai, are a few notable institutes attached to this college.

IMPORTANCE OF SELF-HELP AND WAYS TO DO SO

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Self-help is the art of focusing on betterment of oneself. Sticking to a daily routine can be overwhelming and take a toll on your mental well-being. It is absolutely normal to feel worn out, exhausted, and at times incompetent even while carrying out your daily duties. Eventually, everyone reaches a point in their lives where they need to step back and just be with themselves, analyze, reflect and try to find peace. Each of us should leave ourselves some space for self-improvement and self-help without being too hard on oneself. Self-help, self-improvement and self-love go hand in hand. Once you recognize a difficulty, examine it and find the will to improve that aspect of your life, it is called at self-help. Taking an action that would aid in fixing the problem is known as self-improvement. A few ways which may help in your journey of self-improvement are:

  1. Surround yourself with right people-

Positivity and happiness are contagious. A person’s company matters a lot as it statistically influences the person’s success or failure. Having people who inspire you, motivate you, and guide you is a blessing. Thus, one should always make a conscious effort surround themselves with positive people. A supportive and uplifting environment will instill empowering beliefs in you. This will, in turn, induce a positive mindset and a positive mindset manifests success faster.  

  • Turn off social media-

Your environment has an incredible ability to shape your behaviour. Today, social media is full of “influencers” and other personalities who showcase their life a certain way. There are some who set extremely unrealistic and aberrant expectations that are difficult to live up to for a common man. Subjecting oneself to such a culture can be harmful. Hence, one should make a mindful effort to stay away from such posts if it is proving to affect them in a negative way. One may instead follow people or accounts that inspire them or simply make them feel better. Having a healthy and uplifting social media environment is as important as surrounding yourself with positive people.

  • Have a healthy lifestyle-

The famous saying “You are what you eat” has been around for centuries. What it implies is that everything you eat becomes a part of your inner being. Today junk food and fast foods have been carving their ways into our lives.it is far more convenient for a working person to grab a burger and rush to work than take out time to cook a healthy breakfast. These fast foods have little to no nutritional value and only make us obese and lethargic. This sequentially affects our mindset and we feel less productive. The health of the gut affects the overall health of the body. A healthy gut contains healthy bacteria and immune cells that ward off infectious agents like bacteria, viruses and fungi. A healthy gut also communicates with the brain through nerves and hormones, which helps maintain general health and well-being. Thus, it is important to have a nutritious meal to keep your brain and soul healthy and young.

Apart from eating healthy, it is equally important for your body to keep moving. Exercising stimulates brain chemicals called endorphins that leave you feeling happier and more relaxed, providing an emotional lift and reducing stress. Physical activity also stimulates the release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin that trigger a positive feeling in the body, and can be especially helpful in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.

  • Meditation-

Along with eating healthy and exercising, another advocate for mental and physical well being is meditation. Meditation helps you introspect and find inner peace.  It is in meditation that you can do the most self-discovery and get direction from your own inner self or soul. Biochemical studies also show that meditation can significantly affect hormones and neurotransmitters such as cortisol, dehydroepi- androstrone, serotonin, melatonin, and epinephrine which help elevate one’s mood. A simple habit of meditating for 10 minutes every day can change your life drastically. You can sit or lie comfortably and close your eyes. You can put on an audio for guided meditation to help you go through with it or just focus your attention on your breath and on how the body moves with each inhalation and exhalation; making no effort to control the breath; simply breathe naturally. Just 10 minutes are enough to overcome stress, anxiety, and give you other mental and physical benefits.

Strengthening The Education System in India 

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We are entering a new decade as India celebrates the 10th anniversary of its Right to Education Act (RTE), which was passed in April 2010. While the RTE has been criticized for its limited focus on governance and learning outcomes, it has been successful in improving access to schooling. The report has also served as a rallying point for a wide range of stakeholders to intervene in the sector.

The country’s learning outcomes remain low, however, as has been well-established by now. In politics, quality concerns around education are rarely a priority. It isn’t possible to ignore these concerns forever, especially when the country is experiencing a human capital crisis, as can be seen from its unemployment statistics. Furthermore, more educated individuals have lower employment rates than those with less valuable degrees. Global Business Coalition for Education’s 2030 Skills Scorecard confirms these concerns – in 2030, India will be the most educated nation in South Asia, but nearly half of them will not have the skills to get a job.

So far, the band-aid response to such crises has been to establish a Ministry of Skilling instead of making more fundamental reforms in school education. To move forward, India must break out of this unstable equilibrium and view education within a broader human capital framework. India’s education sector must take both scale and substance into account in the upcoming decade, addressing the learning problem system-wide while also recalibrating the system’s raison d’être.

  1. Enhancing administration

Even the most sophisticated education policies and curriculum frameworks have failed to live up to their promise in the past due to weak administration. It is imperative to strengthen the pillars of governance in the education sector. According to Julia Gillard, former Australian prime minister and chair of the Global Partnership on Education, “governments must be able to gather a diverse collection of instruments, each playing its own notes, to produce a sound of coherent splendour.” Many states have taken ownership of bringing about large-scale changes in the way education is administered in recent years, including Haryana, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh. A common starting point has been the integration of schools in many of these states. Government schools often emerged organically without a coherent strategy, serving just a handful of students, resulting in a large, unwieldy system of schools. With inadequate frontline administration, information gaps, and many faculty vacancies, the state’s ability to manage such a system is limited.

  • Evaluation system

It is still the marks that determine children’s future and students are often burdened as a result. Students often underperform due to the pressure of marks. Students should be evaluated on more than just a three-hour exam; they should be evaluated on their classroom participation, their projects, their communication and leadership abilities, and their extracurricular activities. Then and only then will the students give their best and will be evaluated accordingly.

  • Introduction of technology

We are living in the era of the fourth industrial revolution. Technology is undergoing a renaissance today, and in an era like this, education and technology cannot be separated. In order for students to not feel alienated by technology in the future, it must be introduced in the early stages of their education. The Indian schools must embrace technology and education with an open heart and pass on the same to the students since it is there, where their future lies.

Migrant Crisis In Covid 19 Pandemic

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In the context of immigration, the COVID-19 economic crisis could be long, deep, and pervasive. Across the globe, economic activities have been slowed by travel bans, lockdowns, and social strife. There are additional challenges for the host countries in many sectors such as health and agriculture that depend on the availability of migrant workers. In addition to the risk of contagion, migrants may lose their employment, wages, and health insurance coverage.

Despite all forms of transportation being suspended and interstate borders being sealed, migrant workers across India made their way back home during the Covid-19 lockdown announced in March. During the lockdown, migrant workers’ greatest suffering resulted from their inability to manage their finances. The critical role of wages is evident in the lives of migrants and their families during this period – without wages, they could not meet basic needs such as food, water, shelter, or healthcare, or send remittances to their rural households who depend on immigration income. It is important to note that wages played an important socioeconomic role during the crisis, determining the ability of workers and their households to survive. Over 139 million Indians are migrant workers, which constitutes nearly half of the nation’s 470 million workforce. Despite the extreme desperation facing the vast mobile workforce during the shutdown, the issue of migrant workers’ access to protected wages has remained unaddressed. A strict nationwide lockdown was rather viewed as an outcome of poor planning by governments, which failed to account for the large numbers of undocumented, rural-urban migrants.

Migrant workers’ plight was attributed solely to their mobility between states, without taking into account the nature of their employment in urban labor markets, including low wages and insecure jobs. India’s wage-dependent workforce is vexed by an ongoing debate about the state’s protection of living wages. Despite substantial evidence to the contrary, some have argued that raising wages will lead to the closure of businesses and the loss of jobs. Even government reports, such as the Economic Survey (2019), by the State Bank of India (2019), and by the Reserve Bank of India (2018), highlight the fact that stagnation in real wages has hurt the consumption capacity of the poor, causing the economy to slow down. However, the neo-liberal economic policy that encouraged economic growth by slashing the labor protection framework, especially that protecting workers’ wages, weakened labor regulations and grievance redress mechanisms, leaving them unable to handle the widespread wage violations experienced by workers.

Due to the economic crisis due to the Covid-19 pandemic, experts suggest that measures to create disposable income, including raising wages, are a top priority in order to create economic revival. The post-lockdown period in India, however, has been marked by the dilution of the labor protection regime through the labor reform process, in order to facilitate economic revival rather than ensuring wage security for its migrant workers. Due to their alienation from the state machinery where they work, migrant workers cannot demand wages from their employers, and due to their lack of integration into trade unions at their destinations, in addition to their fragmentation by caste and region, they lack any collective bargaining platforms. It is critical that economic revival is imagined alternatively, and executed through a strong institutional framework, in order to prevent that economic expansion post-pandemic deepens the exploitation of and inequality faced by the country’s poorest wage, dependent populations.

Under such a framework, the state plays a crucial role in keeping wages protected by setting minimum wages at the level of living wages, allowing workers and their households to eat adequately to live a dignified life.

Covid-19 Pandemic And Students

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This school year, there were Coronavirus outbreaks at several schools. however, the rate of transmission was generally the same or lower in communities that had measures in place to minimize disease spread. Today, however, many school districts are being pressed to remove practices such as masking or testing. Although cases of COVID-19 with the delta variant doubled nationwide, this is despite a surge in outbreaks. Testing in schools will become even more important with the delta variant. In an ideal world, all students would be tested daily with free tests. If someone was infected, that test would detect it instantly and with 100 percent accuracy. But there are no such tests. Plus, schools don’t have unlimited funds or the ability to create perfect protocols. Instead, districts will have to weigh the pros and cons of different Coronavirus tests. There will have to be a balance between how often they test and who they test. Below is a look at the type of tests that schools use, along with their benefits and challenges.

Pooling tests

A new test was introduced at a school in America. Each week, thousands of students (with parental consent) swabbed their noses at home. A plastic baggie was used to store the swab, which they then brought to school. A nearby lab received swabs, which were mixed into 16 groups and shipped there. In the lab, technicians combined the samples from these swabs and performed PCR tests.

A PCR reaction is a polymerase chain reaction (PUL-im-er-ace). Genetic material can be detected in samples by these tests. A coronavirus is being looked for here. These tests are the gold standard for diagnostic tests. A PCR test will almost never reveal the presence of the Coronavirus in an uninfected individual. That would be what’s known as a false positive. But PCR tests can miss real infections. Ten to twenty percent of the time, it misses them. Nevertheless, it’s the most accurate test currently available. Tests that are less accurate are less expensive than tests that use PCR. Additionally, it takes longer to run. A cost-saving measure is combining individual samples into pools. The pooled test doesn’t need to be repeated if it’s negative. This can save a lot of money.

To make pooled testing work, students must buy-in. The peak participation rate in these schools averaged about 60 percent. Whenever a student tested positive, school nurses would scramble to contact the child. The kids were told to isolate themselves and identify everyone they had recently interacted with. Those contacts would then be notified about the possible exposure by the nurses. Contact tracing is a method of identifying contacts.

It does, however, have some drawbacks. PCR-testing labs are not readily available in all schools. In addition, the results take a few days to appear. Then we have to trace the contacts, which is even more time-consuming. As a result, the virus can spread easily among infected students. In the case of the delta variant, this may prove particularly troubling. As soon as they become infected, they are much more likely to spread it.

Vaccines for malaria and dengue may hit Indian market in 2-4 years

Malaria vaccine

Immunizations for jungle fever and dengue, tropical mosquito-borne diseases, could require two to four years to hit the Indian market, say industry insiders.

As of now, there are a few up-and-comers underway with the Serum Institute of India (SII), Bharat Biotech, and Zydus Cadila all chipping away at one or the other creating or assembling against malarial antibodies.

With respect to dengue, French firm Sanofi and Japan’s Takeda are hoping to bring their antibodies here.

SII, the world’s biggest immunization creator, and Novavax are teaming up for stage 3 clinical preliminaries of the Oxford University’s Jenner Institute’s intestinal sickness antibody on more than 4,800 youngsters in four African nations. It has shown 77% viability in preliminaries on babies, the main immunization to cross the World Health Organization’s (WHO) focus of 75% adequacy.

“Work has started over the most recent couple of months on this,” said a source near the turn of events, without revealing subtleties on India-explicit plans. Industry insiders say controllers would require neighborhood preliminary information prior to permitting it.

“Information on security and immunogenicity, regardless of whether on a little associate, would be looked for by the controller here regardless of whether they choose to put together their choice of endorsement with respect to worldwide adequacy preliminary information,” said a senior authority of an immunization firm. This could expand the timetables for accessibility here.

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of SII, couldn’t be gone after a remark on when he wished to begin the Indian arm of the preliminary.

Furthermore, the majority of the immunizations being created, truth be told, are designated at African nations. GSK’s plasmodium falciparum jungle fever antibody (RTS,S/AS01E likely marked Mosquirix), which Bharat Biotech will create will at first go to African nations. The tech move of the immunization has started. The antigen RTS,S will be made by Bharat Biotech, while GSK will supply the adjuvant.

GSK, which has fostered the immunization more than 30 years, is presently directing it in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi under the Malaria Vaccine Implementation Program (MVIP). The WHO said last week that it has suggested far reaching utilization of the GSK immunization for kids in sub-Saharan Africa.

Sources near the improvement said Bharat Biotech is as of now dealing with setting up the assembling site. Thus, it would require a couple of years before the antibody opens up either in African countries or in India. Bharat Biotech will be the sole provider of the immunization till 2029 and will supply 15 million portions yearly to these African nations.

“Another office is being developed at Bhubaneswar for assembling the intestinal sickness antibody. The course of innovation move has effectively begun,” said a source near the turn of events. The individual added that it would require a few years before the antibody is prepared.

“Bharat Biotech should take administrative endorsements from the Indian medication controllers prior to assembling,” the source added.

Closer home, Zydus Cadila also has a possibility for jungle fever, being created by its Vaccine Technology Center in Ahmedabad. It is likewise chipping away at immunizations for Haemorrhagic Congo Fever, Ebola, and Japanese Encephalitis, among others.

Sharvil Patel, Zydus Cadila’s overseeing chief, let Business Standard know that the firm is dealing with both an antibody and a treatment. “We are chipping away at both an intestinal sickness antibody and a medication,” Patel said, without uncovering further subtleties.

The beginning of covid culture

With the rise of coronavirus (COVID19), In the last few months, individuals, families, and communities in India have been negotiating a new social order. India’s roughly 1.3 billion people went under the first phase of lockdown in March 2020.  

The government had initiated these protocols concerning WHO :

  1. Wearing a mask in public 
  • Make sure your mask covers your nose, mouth, and chin.
  • Clean your hands before you put your mask on, before and after you take it off, and after you touch it at any time.
  • When you take off your mask, store it in a clean plastic bag, and every day either wash it if it’s a fabric mask or dispose of it in a trash bin if it’s a medical mask.
  • Don’t use masks with valves. 

2. Maintaining distance in public places

  • Avoid the 3Cs: spaces that are closed, crowded, or involve close contact.
  • Keeping 6 feet distance or a minimum of 3 feet in public
  • Meet people outside. Outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor ones, particularly if indoor spaces are small and without outdoor air coming in.
  •  Open a window to increase the amount of natural ventilation when indoors.

3. Keep good hygiene 

  • Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with either an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. This eliminates germs that may be on your hands, including viruses.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of the used tissue immediately into a closed bin and wash your hands.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces frequently, especially those which are regularly touched, such as door handles, faucets, and phone screens.

4. Vaccination 

  • Get vaccinated as soon as it’s your turn and follow local guidance on vaccination.
  • Do not believe in any false information about vaccination.
  • The vaccines approved in India are :

          1 Zydus Cadila. ZyCoV-D. 

          2 Moderna. mRNA-1273.

          3 Sputnik V.

          4 Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) 

          5 Oxford/AstraZeneca. AZD1222.

          6 Serum Institute of India. Covishield

          7 Bharat Biotech. Covaxin. 

What to do if we get sick?

  • If you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Call by telephone first and follow the directions of your local health authority.
  • Do not take any random medicines without the concern of a proper physician. 
  • Know the full range of symptoms of COVID-19. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough, tiredness, and loss of taste or smell. Less common symptoms include aches and pains, headache, sore throat, red or irritated eyes, diarrhea, a skin rash, or discoloration of fingers or toes.
  • Stay home and self-isolate for 10 days from symptom onset, plus three days after symptoms cease. Call your health care provider or hotline for advice. Have someone bring you supplies. If you need to leave your house or have someone near you, wear a properly fitted mask to avoid infecting others.
  • Keep up to date on the latest information from trusted sources, such as WHO or your local and national health authorities. Local and national authorities and public health units are best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect themselves.

Written with reference to WHO and MoHFW (Ministery of health and family welfare Government of India ) 

Blood type

Do you know your blood type? If you haven’t been in any medical situations where blood type is important, you might not.

We know that there are 8 main blood groups that make up most of the world’s population.

But it turns out that scientists still don’t know why we evolved different blood types. And that may remain a mystery for a long time. But from now, science can at least tell you about your own blood.

Knowing your Blood type

In develops parts of the world, it’s not crucial to know your blood type off the top of your head. Doctors will typically run tests before any major procedure and if there’s any doubt in a medical emergency, you’ll most likely receive O negative blood, because that’s the universal donor blood that’s save to give to any A, B, AB or O recipient.

Blood type experiments

For thousands of years nobody really understood blood. A Greek doctor Claudius Galenus from 200 CE believed that it was created food and liver, and this school of thought lived on for nearly 1500 years.

It wasn’t until in the 17th century A british doctor named William Harvey, discovered that blood actually circulated through the body. This spawned A new age of experimentation with blood.

In 1665, an English physician successfully kept one dog alive by transfusing it with a blood of another dog. Just two years later, doctors began experimenting with Xenotransfusions. That is transfusing humans with animal blood, such a sheep. And those human patients died.

It wasn’t until 1900 that we finally realised people and animals actually have different types of blood that determine whose blood can mix with whose. That’s where different letters came into play.

If you’re type A, your immune system will perceive type B blood as an intruder and trigger auto immune response that can cause

  • kidney failure,
  • extensive blood clotting, and
  • even shock.

The reverse is true of type B blood. The immune system will attack type A.

AB blood however, accept both A and B blood without triggering the auto immune response. These things get little bit complicated when introduced there negative and positive part of your blood type. Positive can’t accept negative, but the opposite is extremely dangerous.

Other than 8 Blood types

To further complicate things scientists have discovered dozens of more blood type, such as the Duffy blood group, which can determine your susceptibility to malaria. Or the Hh blood type, which 1 in 10,000 people in India have. But the vast majority of the humans fall into this A, B, O system.

As per why humans evolved this complicated system of blood types and compatibility, we really don’t know. The original mutations are thought to date back nearly 20 million years. But whatever the biology is behind blood typing, it’s a real practical thing that matters.

It’s just not a bad idea to know your blood type. If you’re traveling somewhere that’s rural, or doesn’t have access to advance medicine, it’s good for you and your travelling companion to know your types, just in case of an accident along the way. In big emergency closer to home, blood banks often put in calls for donors of a specific type. And remember if you’re type O Negative, you’re an extremely useful universal donor. So, knowing your type can give you a peace of mind.

Your body when you Swim

Harvard medical school published a study which looked at over 40,000 men, aged 20-90 who were either runners, walkers, swimmers, and physically in active people. With an average length of 13 years of observation and in that time

  • 2% of swimmers passed away
  • 8% of runners passed away
  • 9% of walkers passed away
  • 11% of physically inactive people passed away

This study showed that swimmers are much healthier later on in life than the rest of the population and for women swimming just 30 mins a day can decrease coronary heart disease by 30 to 40 percent.

It also helps to increase HDL aka good Colestrol. Some studies have also shown that aerobic excercise can keep the cells in the lining of your arteries more flexible and healthier. Hence there is no question that swimming is an awesome form of fitness.

Body during swimming

What do you actually feel when you go into the water? Here are some main elements of the human body that gets impacted during swimming.

1. Blood

According to the America Heart Association, swimming is considered as Aerobic activity. Aerobic excercise enlarges the heart and it increases the blood flow through the entire boby. Because swimming is an excercise, the blood has to pump all the molecules into the body.

2. Heart

Since so much of blood has to be pumped into the body, that ties into how it impacts your heart because we know that after 2 mins your body goes into aerobic respiratory because your heart has to pump all the oxygenated blood through the body. So as you swim, your heart is circulating the blood which help your body to perform and achieve the required goals.

3. Skin

You must have seen that the skin color changes of swimmers. For example, some swimmers face turns red when the swim, that happens because your blood vessels are dilating and the brings the heat to the surface into the skin then some people turn red, as a result your skin is showing the effort that you’re putting in the water.

4.Muscles

There’s a reason why swimmers are considered to have best body and physiques in the world compared to any athlete, because swimming engages every single muscles in the water when it comes to your core stability, your upper body, your biceps, your hamstrings, your calves, everything is engaged when you swim.

When you’re swimming, you are micro tearing your muscles while swinging it. And the muscles requires 24-48 hrs to recover those muscles. That’s when sometimes you might feel sore.

5. Lungs

Swimming can actually help increase your lungs volume because in swimming different than other sports, you can’t actually breath whenever you want. It’s not like running when you have full access to oxygen.

In swimming you’re engaging your muscles and you’re not allowed to breathe necessarily at the time when your body might want it. So because you have to get used to this, you actually increase your Vo to max (maximum amount of oxygen body is able to use). So basically you are making your lungs more efficient at functioning.

6. Brain

The Brain loves swimming, because of all the extra blood flow moving through these endorphins that makes you more awake, alert and focus.

But this could happen in any type of sport but swimming is something really special because you’re sort of in your own world where the medium is 800 times more dense than air, which makes you feel free and relaxed.

Hence, from physical health to mental health, swimming is an incredible benefit human body and after reading this you must be thinking of trying swimming.

Being Bilingual

People have very different opinions on what bilingualism really is. For some it means speaking two languages fluently and with little to no effort rather strongly consider a person bilingual, if it has perfect pronounciation in both languages and makes very few grammatical errors while talking.

The truth is that, even with a bad accent and making some mistake, being able to speak in two or more languages rather than one has practical benefits in an increasingly globalised world.

Multilingualism

Multilingualism has been shown to have many psychological and social advantages that can go something simply as

  • watching movies with no subtitles
  • to having less problems in traveling and
  • even getting a job or business opportunities specially in tourist areas.

Types of Bilingualism

It is considered to be two types of Bilingualism

1. Compound Bilingualism

Compound Bilingualism, also called addictive Bilingualism happens for example when a child is raised by bilingual parents and both languages are used in home, the child grows when both languages are used simultaneously in the same environment.

With this type of Bilingualism, the person does not see the two languages as separate it is common to hear such people speaking different languages in the same sentence or using a word of a different language from the one they’re talking to better express themselves.

2. Coordinate Bilingualism

This is the second type of Bilingualism also know as Subtractive Bilingualism. In this type, the person perceive two languages as separate because he learns them separately and in different environments in context.

I am an example of coordinate Bilingualism, most of the time i talk Hindi when I’m in my college environment or to people who talks only that language, I use the language specifically for those context but to my family members i usually talk in Bengali which is my native language, the language related to my home environment. I see these two language as separate since I learned and used them in completely different environments.

Officially Monolingual Countries

Only a few countries in the world including the U.S, England, and Australia are officially Monolingual but even in these countries only a considerable percent of people who speaking and understand more than one language.

Advantage

Researchers suggest that bilingualism can slow the advance of age-related mental issues such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s by up to 4 years.

Also in bilingual adult, brain tissue called grey matter is denser compared with Monolingual adults.

Although speaking more than one language does not necessarily make you more intelligent person, it helps stimulates and increase brain connections. Learning a new language is like an excercise to the brain that will improve your Cognitive skills and even if you grew up in a Monolingual environment, it is never too late to start learning a different language.

History of Halloween

From communion with the dead to pumpkins and pranks, Halloween is a patchwork holiday, stitched together with cultural religions and occult tradition that spans centuries.

Before Halloween

It all began with the Celts; a people whose culture had spread across Europe more than 2,000 years ago. October 31st was the day they celebrated the end of the harvest season in a festival called Soin, that night also marked as Celtic New Year and was considered a time between years; a magical time when the ghost of the dead walked the earth as called as time when the veil between death and life was supposed to be at its thinnest.

At that time the villagers would gathered and lit huge bonfires to drive the dead back to the spirit world and keep them away from the living. But as the Catholic Church’s influence grew in Europe, it frowned on the pagan rituals like sawing.

The name Halloween

In the 7th century the Vatican began to merge it with a Church sanctioned holiday. So November 1st was designed All Saints day to honor martyrs and the deceased faithful. Both of these holidays had to do with the afterlife and about survival after death, it was a calculated move, on the part of the church, to bring more people into the fold.

All Saints day was known as then Hallowmas; hallow meaning holy or saintly, so the translation is roughly mass of the saints. The night before October 31st was All Hallows eve while gradually morphed into “Halloween“.

How the holiday spread

The holiday came to America with the wave of Irish immigrants during the Potato Famine of the 1840s. The brought several of their holiday customs with them including

  • Bobbing for apples and,
  • Playing tricks on neighbors like, removing gates from the front of the houses
Irish immigrants

Trick-o-treat

The young pranksters wore masks so they wouldn’t be recognised but over the years the traditional of harmless tricks grew into outright vandalism such as in 1930s, pranks during Halloween became really holiday, as there was such a hooliganism and vandalism.

Trick-o-treat was originally a extortion deal, give candies or get your house trashed. Storekeeper and neighbors began giving treats or bribes to stop the tricks and children were encouraged to travel door-to-door for treat as an alternative to trouble making. By the late 30s trick-o-treat became a holiday greeting.

Where did Necktie came from?

The neckties, also known as decorative noose are a narrow piece of fabric designed to be worn around the neck and tied at the throat. They can be made from many materials but commonly constructed from silk or cotton.

Varieties

Today there are many different kinds of neckties:-

  • Ascot tie
  • The zipper tie
  • Clip on tie
  • The tie dye tie

So when did wrapping a piece of fabric around your neck become a formal style necessity. The length of World War to blame can partially be placed on the French Military. While humans have been tying fabric around their neck since they could sew.

History

The neckties is been known as it didn’t start crowding collars until the 17th century. King Louis XIII of France had hired Croatian mercenaries to fight for him during the 30-year war and the king was impressed by the length of cloth the Croatian used to keep their jackets together.

Croatian

Louis liked it so much that he required his entire royal court to wear them a tradition that his son will continue in his court. The trend soon spread across the French aristocracy and it wasn’t long before all of the Europe had converted to the curve at.

Tying a Necktie

There are four main ways to tie a neckties;

  1. The Four-in-hand knot
  2. The Pratt knot aka The Shelby knot
  3. Half-windsor knot
  4. The Windsor knot

According to researchers from Cambridge Cavendish Laboratory, there are 85 ways to tie a tie. Thomas Fink and Yong Mao actually use Mathematical modeling to figure this out and publish a book on their finding.

Towards the end of tie fashion

The necktie is losing its grip around the throat of male fashion. Tech companies such as Google, Amazon, and eBay actually encourage their employees to dress casually with some going as far as banning traditional office wear entirely and other companies are following suits.

Its fast become a power move to dress drown to the office in the 21st century as a statement of fellow workers, you can wear what ever you want.

Californian companies have led the charge in disrupting many common business practices, by rejecting aspects of corporate life that once seemed to given such as

  • Traditional working hours
  • Corporate hierarchies
  • Paying employees a living wage

Now politicians and even royalty are leaving tie in their dresses so it many not be long before neckties joins the history books of pointless male neck fashion.

PINEAPPLE AS PART OF DIET

Fresh pineapple is the only known source of an enzyme called bromelain, which might play a role in a range of different health benefits.

Many examinations have proposed that expanding utilization of plant food varieties like pineapples diminishes the danger of heftiness, by and large mortality, diabetes, and coronary illness.

It likewise advances a solid colouring and hair, expanded energy, and a general lower weight.

Coming up next are potential advantages of eating pineapple :

Asthma counteraction

The dangers of creating asthma are lower in individuals who burn-through a high measure of specific supplements.

One of these supplements is beta-carotene. It is found in orange, yellow and dim green plant food varieties, like pineapple, mangoes, papaya, apricots, broccoli, melon, pumpkin, and carrots.

Some more modest studies Trusted Source have proposed bromelain can likewise add to reducing asthma side effects.

Assimilation / Digestion

Pineapples, in view of their fiber and water content, help to forestall stoppage and advance consistency and a sound gastrointestinal system.

Pineapples are likewise rich in bromelain, a compound that helps the body digest proteins. Bromelain additionally decreases provocative insusceptible cells, called cytokines, that harm the intestinal system lining.

The unappetizing stems are the most focused wellspring of bromelain, which can be removed and is promptly accessible in supplement structure.

Contains disease fighting antioxidants

Not only are pineapples rich in nutrients, they are also loaded with healthy antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules that help your body combat oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress is a state in which there are too many free radicals in the body. These free radicals interact with the body’s cells and cause damage that is linked to chronic inflammation, a weakened immune system and many harmful diseases

Pineapples are especially rich in antioxidants known as flavonoids and phenolic acids

What’s more, many of the antioxidants in pineapple are bound. This allows the antioxidants to survive harsher conditions in the body and produce longer lasting effects.

May Help Reduce the Risk of Cancer

Malignancy is a persistent infection portrayed by uncontrolled cell development. Its movement is usually connected to oxidative pressure and constant aggravation.

A few examinations have shown that pineapple and its mixtures might decrease the danger of malignancies. This is on the grounds that they might limit oxidative pressure and decrease aggravation.

One of these mixtures is the gathering of stomach related compounds called bromelain. Test-tube studies have shown that bromelain may likewise assist with battling disease

For example, two test-tube studies showed that bromelain smothered the development of bosom disease cells and invigorated cell passing

Other test-tube studies show that bromelain smothers disease in the skin, bile pipe, gastric framework and colon, among different regions

Test-tube and animal studies have found that bromelain may stimulate the immune system to produce molecules that make white blood cells more effective at suppressing cancer cell growth and eliminating cancer cells.

DISADVANTAGES OF PINEAPPLE

SKIN IRRITATION

Bromelain is utilized as a meat tenderizer, so eating a lot of bromelain-rich pineapple might make your lips sore or enlarged. This response is typically gentle and brief, yet certain individuals are additional touchy to pineapple and may experience the ill effects of more extreme incidental effects, like enlarged tongue, rashes, hives or breathing issues, If you experience these manifestations, try not to eat pineapple, as you might be hypersensitive to it. Also, bromelain is a gentle blood slenderer and eating heaps of pineapple might cause draining issues in certain individuals.

Has High Sugar Content

Typically, when making pineapple juice there is no requirement for one to add any sugar since pineapple itself is now sweet. Pineapple having a high sugar content level and subsequently are not to be taken in overabundance as it can cause gum disease and pits. It ought to likewise be stayed away from by the individuals who are overweight or diabetic.

May demolish existing kidney issues

Notwithstanding bromelain, pineapple likewise contains oxalic corrosive and a lot of potassium. Oxalic corrosive is equipped for creating salts alongside different kinds of mineral mixtures like calcium, which is likewise found in our bodies.

Consequently, those with kidney disappointment or kidney stones can’t and ought not follow the pineapple diet. Doing as such would deteriorate their condition and create an aggregation of potassium in the body.

BODY DYSMORPHIC DISORDER(BDD)

Body Dysmorphic disorder is a mental disorder marked by an obsessive of perceived defects or flaws in once appearance. A flaw that to others is considered minor or not observable.

People suffering from BDD

  1. Can feel emotion such as shame and disgust concerning a part or parts of their body part and fixate on this.
  2. The obsession is so intense that the person repeatedly checks and compares the perceived flaw seeks reassurance sometimes for several hours each day.
  3. The person can also adopt unusual routines to avoid social contact that exposes the perceived flaw.
  4. This pervasive thoughts about their appearance and body image interfere with their daily life via
    • Educational
    • Occupational dysfunction and
    • Isolation

No matter how many times people assure them that there is no flaw, they cannot accept that the issue doesn’t exist.

The most common features about which people obsess includes:-

  • Nose
  • Wrinkles
  • Acne
  • Complexion
  • Blemishes
  • Hair
  • Skin
  • Vein appearance
  • Muscles size
  • Tone
  • Breast size
  • Buttocks
  • Genitalia

BDD is estimated to affect up to 2.4% of the population. The condition usually starts during adolescence affecting both men and women. BDD does not go away on its own if Untreated it may get worse with time leading to

  • severe depression
  • Anxiety
  • Substance abuse
  • Suicidal thoughts and behavior

Causes

The exact cause is unknown, but like every other disorder BDD may result from a combination of causes such as:-

  1. Brain differences
  2. Environmental factors; special if they involve negative social evaluations about the body or Self-image
  3. Childhood trauma
  4. Genetics; studies suggest that BDD is likely to run in family.

Certain factors that may increase the risk of developing the condition may include:-

  1. A family history
  2. Negative body image
  3. Perfectionism
  4. Negative life experiences such as bullying or teasing
  5. Introversion
  6. Media influence.

Symptoms

Extreme preoccupation with a perceived flaw in your physical appearance that appear minor to others for at least one hour a day. Attempting to hide perceived flaw with –

  • styling, makeup or clothes – to seeking plastic or cosmetic surgery,
  • avoiding social situations,
  • constantly comparing appearance with others,
  • always seeking assurance about appearance from others,
  • low self-esteem, compulsive behaviour such as skin picking and frequent clothes changing.

Extreme preoccupation with an appearance that interferes with social life work, school, or other functionality.

Diagnosis

A medical evaluation will be carried out other medical conditions after which further evaluation is carried out by a mental health professional.

Diagnosis is based on:-

  1. A psychological evaluation; which aims at assessing risk factors and thoughts feeling as well as behavior can be associated with a negative self-image.
  2. Personal, medical, family and social health history.

Treatment

Treatment option may include therapy and medication includes:-

  1. Cognitive behavioral therapy; that helps you learn how to cope and behave to improve your mental health
  2. Medications; such as SSRIs may help is control obsession and control repetitive behaviours

Psychiatric hospital may be suggested if the symptom is severe such as when you’re in immediate danger of harming yourself.

Famous personality with BDD

Here is a list of people with BDD;

  • Michael Jackson(singer, dancer)
  • Billie Elish (singer)
  • Robert Pattinson (from twilight)
  • Ileana D’Cruz (from Rustom)
  • Miguel Herrán (from money heist)

History of Indian Stamps

India got independence on 15th August of 1947 assured in a new era in the history of the country but philatelist had to wait another 98 days for the release of India’s most commemorate stamp on 21st of November 1947.

First stamp

The Postal Telegraph Department however came out with a large Kashi postmarked with the slogan “Jai hind” for the occasion and letters mailed that the major post offices of the country were cancelled with this post mark.

The India’s first commemorative stamp features the Lion capital of Ashoka which had one set on the top of a column of Sarnath near Varanasi. The lion capital has since been around at the state emblem of India the denomination of the stamp was one and a half annas and an inspiration of “Jai hind” in Hindi was also depicted in the stamps.

Other stamps

Actually three stamps were planned to release at the time of Independence. The rest two stamps were released in the 15th of December 1947 with the three and a half annas stamp with portray of the national flag in tricolor Saffron on the top, white in the middle and green in the bottom.

The twelve annas stamp depicts an aircraft a symbol of the modern age. These stamps also have inscription “Jai hind” in hindi, they are also known are Jai Hind stamps.

The stamps were printed offset lithography. As the three and a half annas stamp was printed in three colors in three steps because difference in inking at different stages, because specimens having the top of the flag in deep orange or pale orange and the lower part in pale green and deep green were coming across.

Petroleum Jelly is harmful to skin

You probably have a jar of Vaseline somewhere in your house. Millions of people swear by it as a remedy for clapped lips, congestions, diaper rash and dry skin. Unfortunately the popular product is more harmful than many realise.

What is Petroleum Jelly?

Petroleum jelly, commonly known by the brand name Vaseline, is a byproduct of the oil refining process. It was originally found coating the bottom of oil rigs in the mid 1800s. As a byproduct of the oil industry, it’s an unsustainable resource and far from eco-friendly.

How does it work?

Used in everything from lotions to baby products, petroleum jelly works by creating a protective barrier on the skin to hold in moisture. The waterproof barrier it created on the skin blocks pores and can lock in residue and bacteria.

When used on a burn or a sunburn area, it locks in heat and can block the body’s ability to heal. You need to stop using Vaseline for these four reasons:

  1. It contains harmful Hydrocarbon. The skin is unable to metabolize petroleum jelly, so it sits as a barrier on the skin untill it wears off. This blocks the body from gaining any benefit from the substance. A 2011 study found strong evidence that the mineral oil hydrocarbon Vaseline contains are “the greatest contaminant of the human body”
  2. It Promotes Collagen Breakdown. Due to the barrier that petroleum jelly creates on skin, it blocks the skin ability to breathe and absorb nutrients. This can cause the skin to pull the moisture and nutrients it needs from within, leading to collagen breakdown.
  3. It can leads to Estrogen dominance. Estrogen dominance occurs when the body has high levels of estrogen and low levels of progesterone. It has linked to infertility, menstrual problems, allergies and autoimmune problems. Petroleum jelly contains chemicals called xenoestrogens which are believed to increase estrogen problems.
  4. It can cause pneumonia. Although rare, a condition known as lipid pneumonia can occur when small amounts of petroleum jelly is inhaled and build up in the lungs. Because the body can’t metabolize or breakdown the substance, a severe inflammation in the lungs can occur.

Natural Alternatives

There are several natural alternatives to petroleum jelly that you can use without worrying about health risks. If you’re looking for a simple alternative, try one of these options:-

  • Shea butter – High is vitamin A, E and F, shea butter works to nourish the skin through the beneficial fatty acids it contains. It can also help reduce inflammation and increase collagen productions.
  • Beeswax – a great alternative to petroleum jelly is Beeswax. It can be blended into homemade beauty products to protect the skin. Add it to a homemade lip balm and body cream.
  • Coconut oil – this oil loaded with health benefits. It works to nourish the skin through the fatty acids, lauric acids and anti-inflammatory compounds.
  • Coco butter – it contains antioxidants and benefits fatty acids. It may even reduce the signs of ageing.

10 home remedies to get of dark circles

Reduce any dark circles and under eye bags you’ve accumulated from years of having fun.

Us human beings are imperfect creatures. We know we’d like to get in better shape, but that chocolate cookie looks mighty tasty. We know we have to wake up early, but there’s only one episode left on the Netflix show we’re binging on. We know we should apply sunblock religiously, but we forget to bring the bottle with us to the beach.

That’s life. But that doesn’t mean we can’t form some habits and best practices for mitigating the inevitable effects of a life well-lived. For every late night chatting over drinks, for every day out in the sun and for every bed time we didn’t have the energy to apply eye cream, there are as many tips and tricks we can use to fight signs of aging.Nobody’s perfect.

Why Do We Get Eye Circles?

To be honest, even if you’ve spent your life diligently treating your skin as carefully as you possibly can, we’re all going to show signs of aging sooner or later – and that includes under-eye bags and dark circles.

Over time, skin naturally loses collagen and grows thinner, so regardless of what kind of skin you have or what good habits you maintain, veins will inevitably start to show through the thin skin around your eyes. As we already know, exposure to the sun speeds up the process of collagen breaking down, so your best weapon against under-eye circles are disciplined and consistent sunblock application habits from a young age. (Wearing sunglasses while out in the sun helps, too – less squinting = fewer crows feet!)

The best habits, however, can’t change your genes! Genetics are the biggest determinant of what kind of skin we will have and what we’ll look like as we age. Those of us that have inherited fair or thin skin tend to show under circles more easily than others due to the fact that when our blood pools in the capillaries under our eyes, it’s simply more obvious through lighter skin.

Unfortunately, as more and more blood accumulates there, your delicate capillaries begin to stretch and strain under the weight, leading to more leaking and blood pooling – and ultimately even darker under eye circles.

Yet for others, dark under eye circles and under eye bags aren’t caused by either aging, sun bathing or genetics. Sometimes it’s a simple matter of allergies. Year-round allergies like those to dust or mold, or seasonal allergies many of us experience in the spring trigger the release of histamines, which cause an inflammatory response. That means our blood vessels become inflamed and swell – including those under our eyes.

Okay, so That Explains Why I Have Dark Under Eye Circles. but How Do I Get Rid of Under Eye Bags?

Experiment with the following routines to see which one works the most effectively for you. Remember to use patience and consistency when trying out a new routine. Follow the routine every day for 4 to 6 weeks. If after that period of time, you still don’t see the results you want, move on to the next practice and see if that works better for reducing your dark under eye bags and circles.

The Best Routines for Getting Rid of Dark Circles and Under Eye Bags

1. Cold Compress

In the morning or evening – or better yet, in the morning AND the evening – apply a cold compress for about 10 minutes. If you have a mask you can keep in your fridge and pull out twice a day, that’s the easiest way to try this dark circle reducing method. Just make sure to keep it clean and give it a good soapy scrub a few times a week!

2. Cucumbers

We’ve all seen cucumbers used as cold compresses on television and in films – but do they really work?

In fact, cucumbers have skin-lightening and mild astringent properties, so you can use cucumber slices to fix raccoon eyes naturally.

To try this method twice a day, chop a fresh cucumber into thick slices and then refrigerate for 30 minutes. Then, leave the slices on your eyes for 10 minutes. Rinse your eye area with warm (but not hot) water after using.

3.Cucumber Juice + Lemon Juice

If cucumber slices don’t work for you, try mixing equal parts cucumber and lemon juice and then use a cotton ball to apply to your under-eye circles. (DO NOT get lemon juice in your eye!) Leave the solution on your skin for 15 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

4. Rose Water

Rose water doesn’t just smell fantastic – it can also soothe and rejuvenate tired skin. Like cucumber, it’s a mild astringent, so it can work as a skin toner. Just soak cotton makeup remover pads in rose water for a few minutes, and then let the soaked makeup pads sit on your CLOSED eyelids. Leave them for about 15 minutes twice daily.

5. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are high in lycopene, a substance that’s excellent for your cardiovascular health, vision and your skin. Lycopene can help create softer, more supple skin, as well as decrease the appearance of dark under eye circles.

To gain the medical benefits of the lycopene found in tomatoes, mix equal parts tomato juice with lemon juice and then use a cotton ball or makeup remover pad to apply it to your under eye area. (Again, PLEASE do not get lemon juice in your eyes.) Leave the solution for 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water, twice daily.

A tasty concoction of tomato juice, lemon juice and mint leaves to drink daily will also help improve your overall health as well as your skin.

6. Cold tea bags

If you don’t have a cold compress or mask to use, substitute with tea bags. Many teas like green tea have the added benefit of antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe strained capillaries in your under eye area.

To use cold tea bags as a compress, soak a tea bag in clean water and then place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Then, place the tea bags on your eyes. Leave for 10 minutes or so twice daily before removing and rinsing the area with warm water.

7. Potatoes

Potatoes are a surprising source of lots of vitamin C, which among other things is great for the synthesis of collagen to promote healthier, younger-looking skin.

To harness the power of vitamin C to treat your under eye bags, grate some potatoes. Extract the juice from the potato and soak some cotton makeup remover pads in the juice. Place the pads on your eyes for about 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

8. Cold Milk

Dairy products like milk are a great source of vitamin A, which contains retinoids that are great for keeping skin looking bright and young.

To gain the benefits of milk’s vitamin A, soak a cotton makeup remover pad in a bowl of cold milk for a while. Use the pad to apply the milk to your under eye bags and let it sit for about 10 minutes, twice daily. Rinse with warm water.

9. Orange Juice

Since orange juice is high in both vitamin A and C content, it can help remove dark circles from under your eyes. Add a few drops of glycerin to orange juice and then soak a cotton makeup remover pad to apply to your under-eye skin. You’ll reap the benefits of orange’s vitamins as well as the natural glow glycerin gives to your skin.

10. Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E helps fight the effect of free radicals that cause signs of aging like wrinkles. Before bed at night, apply a drop of oil (a little goes a long way) to your dark under eye circles, gently massaging it into the skin. Leave this on your skin overnight and in the morning, rinse with warm water.

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Why does a student need to be industry ready & how they can be?

What do you mean by industry ready?

An industry expects their employees to have Non-technical skills and personal attributes such as team work, communication skills, integrity, reliability and self-motivation are considered more important than purely technical skills to get industry ready.

Importance

A study shows that 50% of the curriculum that are been taught in college/universities, by the time students will graduate, it will get auxiliated with new technologies in the market.

Let’s say for example, a product manager of a company who advertises the product, collects data and analysis the data to improve the marketing strategies of company. He can do it manually, but with time if an app is developed for this work, the company won’t be requiring any product manager.

Although degrees are important for future but it is also important to have a knowledge about what all techniques and skills that will be there in future and also to start developing those skills.

How can students be industry ready?

Here are some ways of getting industry ready:-

  1. Practical Knowledge of Doing Things:- If you can demonstrate how to implement the theoretical knowledge you have then your chances of getting hired will improve significantly.
  2. Sharpen Your Communication Skills:- If you are not able to communicate properly, your knowledge will be of little use to you.
  3. Inculcate the Habit of Innovation:- Form a habit to think out of the box, if you can provide a company with a method to save on expenditure or increase their profit, you have better chances of getting hired.
  4. Read Books and Newspapers Regularly:- Form a habit to read a newspaper or book at least half an hour daily, as this will improve your thinking process as well.
  5. Build Your Profile to Show Your Accomplishments:- One needs to be presentable and be able to exhibit his or her qualifications and capabilities convincingly.
  6. Pursue Online Courses to Hone Your Skills:- To make yourself industry ready, it is better to learn some new skills online.
  7. Work on Your Weak Areas:- The trick here is to present your weaknesses in a way that it looks profitable to the company for whom you want to work for.
  8. Learn to Organize and Manage Your Time:- It is about getting the maximum output in a given amount of time. Productivity matters a lot when you are working for a company.

So start investing more on prolonged and sustainable skills because knowledge and degrees are not going to be most required in future. This is the time to decide what is to be done and how should the steps be taken forward.

Will you take Chinese vaccine?

Made in China, accept it or not but for many of us this label has become synonymous with low cost and low quality. So how true is the stereotype and what has Chinese done to deserve such a bad reputation? Well the list goes long, the latest item is vaccine.

China has sold vaccines to the World which may not be working. It is currently exporting vaccine to 43 countries with:-

  • a total of 742 million doses that have been sold,
  • 22 million doses have been donated,
  • 262 million doses have been delivered.

China is exporting 3 major vaccines:-

  1. Sinovac
  2. CanSino BIO
  3. Sinopharm

But do these vaccines even work? Let’s look at some of the countries those have received Chinese vaccines.

Mongolia

In Mongolia, more than half of the population is fully vaccinated but daily infection has risen by more than 70% in the last 2 weeks, and they’re using the Chinese vaccine Sinopharm. No doubt Mongolians are questioning the effectiveness of the Chinese vaccine.

Bahrain

Bahrain an Asian country is witnessing a surge. There’s a sharp rise in the number of infections and this dispite of high levels of inoculation. How will China explain this? China’s Sinopharm vaccine, accounts for 60% of the inoculation. Bahrain is now administering a Pfizer booster shot for those who have received both doses of vaccine.

Seychelles

Seychelles of East Africa, 61% of the population have been vaccinated with just 100,000 of people. This island nation has the highest vaccination cover globally. It’s daily average cases rose up to 400 with 37% of the fresh infections reported in fully vaccinated people. This is the result of the Chinese vaccine they’re using which is Sinopharm.

UAE

The United Arab Emirates has vaccinated more than 38% of the population with more than 51% have received first dose and yet daily new cases exceeded to 1700. And they are also using the vaccine Sinopharm that was received from China and UAE is also questioning the efficacy of the Chinese vaccine and also giving a Pfizer booster shot to Sinopharm recipient.

Countries who have refused

Philippines

In the month of May, the Philippines President apologized and asked China to take away Sinopharm vaccine back. He sent back the doses because Chinese cure is unproven.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has also refused to recognise certificates of Sinovac and Sinopharm. It is recommending Pfizer and AstraZeneca instead.

Do Chinese vaccines works in China

There’s a fresh out break of new infections that are been reported in the Guangdong province of China. Guangdong with its capital Guangzhou, accounting of 90% of the confirmed cases. Health authorities of the capital blames the delete variant which was first identified in India. A strict lockdown has been composed there overseas arrivals are being quarantined, million have forced to indoors.

Hence its proven that the rumours of China had conquered the pandemic was false. The virus is unpredictable, it keeps spreading. Vaccines are not full proof in preventing infections but if one vaccine has repeatedly proven ineffective then it’s time for some reflection.

BOOST METABOLISM WITH 5 SIMPLE WAYS

Digestion is a term that portrays every one of the synthetic responses that occur in the body. These substance responses are significant for the working of your body.

The term is frequently utilized reciprocally with metabolic rate, which is the quantity of calories you consume. The higher the metabolic rate, the more calories you consume. The more calories you consume, the more weight you lose.

Having an elevated capacity to burn calories keeps you lively and helps you to have an improved outlook the entire day. Here are 5 simple approaches to support your digestion.

START YOUR DAY EARLY

To begin the day on a solid note, get a decent night’s rest the prior night. Great quality rest is related with more noteworthy possibilities of getting thinner effectively. It will furnish you with energy for your bustling timetable.

Prior to having your morning meal in the first part of the day, do a decent morning stretch to your wellbeing and prosperity.

BE ACTIVE DURING OFFICE HOURS TOO

For a great many people, office takes up most of their days’ time. When they are home, they are worn out to the point that they have no energy to go out to the rec centre.

In such cases, one such take a stab at remaining dynamic at work to keep their digestion up. In the event that you have a stationary work, take small action breaks for the duration of the day. Standard development isn’t only useful for weight reduction yet additionally in boosting your efficiency and capacity to focus on the current work.

Have a nutritious dinner at lunch, which incorporates protein and other digestion boosting fixings. Try not to nibble thoughtlessly. Skirt the chips, chocolates, cakes and confections.

EAT SMARTLY

There are sure food varieties that can assist you with consuming more calories. The most common way of biting, processing and putting away the food requires your body to consume calories. This is known as the thermic impact of food (TEF). It just compensates for around 5 – 10 percent of your day-by-day calorie consumption.

High protein food varieties are harder to process and support the development of bulk in case you are strength preparing. Fiber likewise should be bitten more earnestly and brings energy to separate. Adding flavors to your food is one more approach to somewhat support the internal heat level to consume more calories.

Consolidating protein and fiber-rich food varieties can control hunger longings for quite a long time in the wake of eating, which decreases the general inclination to gorge. Pay attention to your inner yearning prompts to separate between evident craving and passionate appetite.

EXERCISE

Undoubtedly, practice is the best method to help your digestion. An exceptional exercise can fire up your metabolic motor for quite a long time even after a meeting. Regardless of whether you are new to actual work, there are bunches of advantages to acquire by working out even as a fledgling.

Obstruction preparing that aide in building muscles is useful in long haul digestion boosting impacts. Indeed, even essential exercises assist with developing fortitude, consume calories and work on your wellbeing.

EAT PROTEIN IN EVERY MEAL

Eating food can build your digestion for quite a while. This is known as the thermic impact of food (TEF). It is the additional calories needed to process, retain and measure the supplements in your dinner.

Protein causes the biggest ascent in TEF. It builds your metabolic rate by 15 – 30 percent when contrasted with 5.10 percent for carbs and 0 – 3 percent for fat. Protein likewise saves you fuller for more and keeps you from indulging. An investigation discovered that individuals were probably going to eat 441 calories less each day when protein made up 30% of their eating routine.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Narcissistic personality disorder or NDP is a personality disorder characterized by grandiosity. You may see it in people who have an inflated ego, with little regards to others. It is important to note that NDP is a psychiatric condition, and it is more complex than simply being arrogant. It’s distressing for those who have it and for those who’re around them. Hoping to shed some light on the condition, and sign that a person should seek help. While much of T.V and movies portray narcissism as people who feel like they’re better than everyone else, it’s usually not just the case.

What is narcissism?

Narcissism is a set of traits classified and studied by psychologists. The psychological definition of narcissism is an inflated, grandiose self-image. To varying degrees, narcissists think they’re better looking, smart and more important than other people and that they deserve special treatment.

Psychologists recognize two form of narcissism as personality traits:

  • Grandiose
  • Vulnerable

What is NDP?

  • NPD is a personality disorder in which the person feels self-important and craves constant validation.
  • Their feelings of superiority often hint at a deeper problem.
  • As their need of validation often comes from a place of insecurity and instability rather than genuine self love which they may not be aware of.

What causes NPD?

  1. While the cause of NPD is unknown, researchers believe that it has to do with a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
  2. It’s believed that 6% of people have this disorder. Men have a higher chance of this disorder than women.
  3. Some believe that NPD is developed to cope with trauma and feelings of inadequacy. Others believe it may be learned in early childhood from dealing with anything, from abuse to excessive pampering.
  4. There is even a debate as to how much of the disorder is passed down from parents to children acquiring the disorder.

What are the signs and Symptoms?

The feeling of grandiosity where they feel that they’re superior to others and low empathy are often seen in those with NPD; they don’t care much for others expecting to receive constant validation.

  • People with NPD feel as though they’re entitled to whatever they want which can be dangerous as it can manifest into toxic relationships.
  • They may manipulate others to get what they want.
  • They brag and exaggerate their achievements or feel envious of anyone that outperforms them, but deep down the person with NPD may be really dealing with their own feeling of inadequacy.

How to get help?

  • People with NPD may not seek help for the disorder itself as they may not know that there’s an issue.
  • Usually, people are diagnosed because they seek treatment for other issues such as depression or addiction.

However people who feel that they may have the condition and urged to reach out for help. NPD and the underlying feelings of inadequacy can be treated. It not only benefits the individual, but also to people around them.

What treatment options are available?

People diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder will most likely work with a therapist using psychotherapy methods.

Other self-improving activities such as:-

  • Doing exercises and,
  • Hobbies may be used in conjunction with therapy.

Coming to a conclusion, we do live in a very materialistic and Consumersious society and as long as that’s the case, narcissism is going to win because it’s about putting yourself first and not caring as much about others. Not to mention people with NPD can be very generous when it’s going to get them what they need. They may buy everyone big dinners and take everyone on a big vacation so it creates this illusion that there’s lots of people all around them, because it’s all the stuff that they’re making possible for them. It’s important to know that treatment is available and that life can be made more manageable.

Story of Cellular Jail of India

You might have heard about the deadliest punishment that one could never wonder in their dreams. It is also known by the name Kala paani ki saza or by the name The black water punishment. So why is this jail different from other jails?

Emergence

During the colonial rule, Britishers got short of places where they could keep and punish the freedom fighters and political activists who were emerging against them. So they made single cellular jail punishment there they can punish the freedom fighters. In the year 1896, Britishers decided to build this jail on Andaman & Nicobar islands and in the year 1906 it was completed.

It was named as “cellular jail” because every jailer was kept in a single cell, so that the one jailer could not talk to others. As the jailers were freedom fighters so if they communicate somehow they will be able to find a way out. The cellular jail is also on an island which is surrounded by water so that the jailer won’t ran way.

The Punishment

The cellular jail wasn’t any normal jail it was like an experimental jail for the Britishers which involved torture, medical tests, forced labor and also some of these punishment which are unimaginable. The Britishers used to send freedom fighters to 1300 km across the water to the Andaman & Nicobar islands. It was so far away from India that people would die even on the boat voyage. So if the prisoners made it that far, they were kept in the cells which were designed for solitary confinement.

The cells of the jail is made up of brick and concrete where there is no toilet, the jailers were allowed to go to the toilet in the morning and at night and the rest of the time they were just locked in the cell. They prisoners were also forced to do labor like to extract 30 pounds of coconut oil and 10 pounds of mustard oil in a day. And if they don’t, then they have to face the consequences by beating up with iron rods while they are chained in iron chains.

Britishers in their own jail

In the year 1944, Japanese came to India and invaded the Islands and took over. The Japanese prisoned the Britishers in their own prison. As per Mahatma gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore’s demand the Indian prisoners were set free.

After the Japanese lost in World War II, they had to retreat, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands became India’s part when it got independent in the year 1947.

After independence the cellular jail was declared as a National Memorial which is now a tourist place for all. There is also a Museum where you can get to know about all the freedom fighters along with their stories.

Pollution causes blindness

Air pollution is a global malice. It destabilzes the climate, punishes our lungs and now according to a new study could possibly affect our eye sight or might make you blind.

The research was published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, it analysed 115,000 participants over 14 years. At the start of the study in 2006, these people have no eye problems but in the latest medical examination , 1,286 of them reported A.M.D (Age related Macular Degeneration). It is the leading cause of blindness among the people aged 50+ in rich nations. There are 200 million people living with this condition.

There appears to be a link between A.M.D and air pollution. People exposed to fine particulate matter are more vulnerable to A.M.D, nearly 8% vulnerable and this isn’t from industry level exposure. Even relatively low level of air pollution could be triggering A.M.D.

Effect on eye sight

The eyes have particularly high flow of blood. This leaves them vulnerable fine particles that flow through the body. It’s important to note that this study is observational. It cannot categorically establish a link between air pollution and A.M.D. However there has been similar study elsewhere with the same results. And the link between smoking and A.M.D has always been known.

The threat from air pollution has always been clear, but new studies are revealing more dimensions of this threat.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution contributes to 7 Million deaths annually. This leaves us with another cause of concern, toxic air could leave you blind.

History of Dentistry

From brushing and flossing to straightening and whitening, people today put a lot of work into maintaining a health and appearance to their smile. The current trend is for straight, pearly white teeth. But history of dental care stretches all the way back to the beginning of human society.

Ancient ways of cleaning teeth

Prehistoric humans who lived before the advert of oral care actually had very few dental problems. Scientists believe this is on account of their diet, which consisted of unprocessed fibrous foods that help clean their teeth while they ate. However as human evolved, so did the food on menu. Overtime, people found if they didn’t take care of their teeth, they developed dental problems.

Archaeology found evidence that early humans cleaned their teeth by picking at them with things like porcupine quills, animal bones, and tree twigs.

In earlier 3,500 BCE, Mesopotamians were using chew sticks to clean their teeth. Egyptian and Chinese have known to use them as well.

Tooth Decay

Ancient people were always aware of the tooth decay. But the first known scientific theory about its causes dates back at least 5,000 years, to Ancient Sumeria. The theory was that cavities were caused by a creature known as the tooth worm, which they believed would wore holes in teeth.

Cavities can actually resemble the kinds of holes that the worms bore through other materials, like wood. The Sumerians, Greeks, Egyptian, Chinese, Japanese, and Indian people all believed in the tooth worm. Some European doctors were still warning people that worms were the cause of their tooth decay as late as the 14th century.

First Toothbrush

Though no one knows exactly when people started brushing their teeth, archeologists believed the practice originated somewhere in the neighborhood of 3,000 BCE. The Babylonians and the Egyptians were the first cultures we know of to fashion rudimentary toothbrushes, which were made mostly from twigs.

The first used bristle toothbrush was created in China sometime during the Tang dynasty, between the 7tg and 10th centuries. It was made from hog bristles which would have been attached to a handle carved from bone or bamboo.

Explorers eventually brought these to the West. And in the 17th century, they began to be adopted in Europe.

New trend

In modern times, the dental ideal is considered to be a bright smile with straight white teeth. People will wear braces, use whiteners, to achieve the look. But most didn’t realise, its a relatively new fashion.

The popularity of look really only goes back to the 20th century and was greatly created by Hollywood movies. The trend, arguably, began their veneers, created by cosmetic dentist named Marcus Pincus in the 1940s. It was spotted by movie stars, like Shirley Temple and Judy Garland, who became famous for perfect smiles.

Judy Garland

While mass market teeth whitening products didn’t became a thing until the 1980s, teeth whitening itself is nothing new.

Why Take Health Insurance Plans in Difficult Times?

With all these healthy routines they are missing one of the most important steps that play a very important role in one’s health and treatment that is to secure their future health expenses by taking a liable health insurance plan. Health insurance equipped the person to take all the treatment and hospitalisation at a reasonable rate.

Currently, the world is dealing with the deadly coronavirus which was originated as the very new virus in late December 2019 in the city of Wuhan, Hubei, China. Even at the time, its name was not known than the situation gain international media’s coverage when virus cases started reporting from other countries as well along with a sharp increase in the death rate due to the coronavirus. The WHO declared it as the global pandemic in March 2020, with about 118,000 confirm cases with 4921 deaths in 114 countries.

The superpower of the world, the United States of America become the worst affected country in the world. Till now the USA has recorded 4.9 million confirmed cases with about 160 thousand deaths has been registered so far. In this dangerous and high-risk time of the pandemic, health-conscious Americans are taking all the necessary precautions to keep themselves fit and healthy. From following a healthy diet to regular exercising, they are doing almost everything to keep themselves away from the virus and other contagious diseases.

Importance of Health Insurance Plan

About 30 million workers living in America lost their jobs so does their health insurance plan during the outbreak of COVID 19 pandemic. Thus, along with the financial burden the Americans has to face the health crises and expenses also. As coronavirus treatment is the costliest so the necessity of a good health insurance plan for American citizens is enormous.

  • As the virus is new and unknown to scientists and doctors so the much study and research are not done on it as well as its vaccine formation time is still not confirmed so the treatment of virus is very expensive in different parts of the world. In America, thousands of dollars are required for the treatment of the corona patient. Because of these reasons, the need for good health insurance is essential.
  • As not only coronavirus but various other deadly viruses like Ebola, Zika and other dangerous diseases surrounds us and requires a lot of dollars for testing and treatment of the disease, so it is very beneficial to equip with the best health insurance policy to ensure the proper treatment and care by the health official at a very minimal rate which was already given to the health insurance company.
  • Health insurance also helps to maintain mental health along with the treatment of physical ailment. As the burden of disease and health problem is already on the mind of the patient so health insurance plan helps to detect financial burden from the mind and to maintain mental health.

As nothing is predictable in life, any unintended accidents can occur at any time of life. During these times health insurance plays a very vital role in saving our and our loves life. 

As corona is also one disease which can enter in our lives at any moment of our life, so advance maintenance and preparations are very essential especially in American cities like New York where there is a large spread of the disease. The first step in the preparation is to avail the honest and liable health insurance plan. 

Thus, along with following all the safety and hygiene protocols of Corona Virus, the person should also ensure the health insurance plan for themselves and their families. The Cities of New York and Boston are the worst affected so proper health insurance for its citizens is very essential.

Best Health Insurance Plan in New York

As the coronavirus claim a lot of deaths, some because of the lack of immunity while others due to the lack of money. The treatment and testing of Corona Virus are too expensive in New York city of America, the health insurance plays a vital role in ensuring treatment from the best doctors and the in the most renowned hospitals. The best insurance plans in New York health come under four categories.

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These are bronze plan, silver, gold and platinum health insurance plans, all vary in its prices. There is government sponsor health insurance plan Medicare that comes at $ 1,005 for the single person, and for married couples, it can be bought at $ 1,354 under its qualified beneficiary plan. Medicare provides four types of the best insurance plan in New York health.

There is also Medicaid health insurance plan for poor families that cannot afford other health insurance plans. About 6% of New York residents are uninsured that compels officials to make some more good policies.

Best Health Insurance Plans in Boston

The Boston city in the United States is also one of the worst affected city that provides some of the most renowned health insurance plans. The best health insurance plans in Boston includes a basic life insurance plan that can be brought at $ 5,000 but its amount may variant with the age of the person. The Medicare Retiree Health insurance plan allows the usage of coverage even after the retirement.

There are many more such health insurance schemes offers both by the government officials as well as the private insurance companies. The Obamacare Health plan that is giving benefits to many Americans, is providing a lot of health insurance plans in different parts of America. These are some of the best health insurance plans in Boston that are making the lives of many citizens easy.

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Conclusion

The Corona Virus Pandemic has put a halt to many things but it also brings the real condition of the health structure of many powerful countries. Even the most powerful and renowned country of the world, the United States of America is not able to control the virus initially that results in the thousands of deaths and millions of active cases. As well as millions of people lost their jobs and become unemployed.

In such a drastic and dangerous situation, the person’s health protector is a health insurance plan that protects the future of the person and makes it financially secured when such a disease or accident takes place. The Americans are looking for the best insurance plans that give them the most benefits of treatment and testing of the disease and by taking one of the health insurance plans our mind become peaceful without any worry of unpredictable tragedies of life.

Introducing Skateboarding in Olympics

In recent history, skateboarding has become a pop culture phenomenon. We see it in everything, from T.V advertisements to fashion shows. And for the first time ever, skateboarding will be introduced in the 2020 summer Olympics. But, skateboarding hasn’t always had the mass appeal we see today.

Brief history

Sometime in the late 1940s or early 1950s, skateboarding was born out of the boredom of surfers when the waves were no good. They would remove the wheels from the roller skates and attach them to a piece of wood to create a skateboard.

By the 1960s, skateboarding’s popularity has grown with rise of surf culture. Contest were held all over and the first sponsored skateboarders were beginning to emerge. However, the popularity of skating in the 60’s dropped just as fast as it rose.

The 1970’s brought along one with the most important changes to the skateboarding world, the advent of the Urethane wheel, which allows skaters to ride faster are over rougher types of ground than ever before.

In 1976, a horrible drought in southern California forced most homeowners with backyard swimming pools to drain them, giving way to birthplace of pool skating. This was the first major shift in how people rode there skateboards. No longer were they limited to the abysmal, flat grounds of parking lots and sidewalks.

The 1980s were a time of Renaissance in skateboarding. People were constantly inventing new tricks, pros were earning unheard of amounts if money, and skateboarder-own companies were thriving.

The vert

The favourable terrain for most of this era was vert. And even though there was a high level of progression occurring, to the untrained eye, skateboarding had gone stale and the popularity once again fell flat.

This lull in skateboarding led to the introduction of street skating which brings us into the 1990s. Skating during the era was at its most raw. Skaters took to the streets, to find new terrain, abandoning traditional skaters parks for something that felt more natural and could be done anywhere, by anyone.

Popularity

Skating things that occur almost anywhere, like sets of stairs, handrails, benches, curbs, and just about anywhere four wheels can roll. From there, skateboarding has been a nonstop, uphill climb to what it is today.

At its core, skateboarding has traditionally been for the underdogs, the outcasts, the misfits, and in result has been thought of negatively by a large major of its existence. But now, with generation of young adults who grew up with skateboarding and the exposure at an all-time high, the future of skateboarding is looking bright.

Mountain of light: Kohinoor

Kohinoor, which means mountain of light, is a colourless Diamond which was discovered in the mines of Guntur in Andhra Pradesh somewhere in the 13th century. It was the biggest Diamond ever known to mankind during that time.

Currently, this Diamond is embedded in the Queen’s Mother’s crown. Governments of India, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan have all claimed the ownership of this Diamond, but the UK governments has denied it stating that it was obtained legally.

Journey

Kohinoor has rich history behind it, though it is generally believed that this Diamond was discovered in 13th century during the kakatiya dynasty rule. There are scholars who dispute saying that the Diamond was discovered in the 16th century in Golconda. Kohinoor was taken by Alauddin Khilji who’s army defeated the Kakatiya dynasty.

It was with the Mughals most of the time after it’s discovery. However, Mughal lost the battle against Nadirshah in 17th century. It was Nadirshah who took the diamond from the Mughals and named it Kohinoor. After Nadirshah’s death, the diamond was passed on to Ahmad Shah Durrani who was his General.

After that Kohinoor was later gifted to Ranjit Singh by the Durrani dynasty during early 18th century. However, British East India Company defeated Ranjit Singh’s army in mid 18th century and took possession of this Diamond. Kohinoor was later shipped to Britain and the diamond was gifted to Queen Victoria in 1850 and Kohinoor has been in possession of the Royal Family since then.

Cursed?

An ancient Hindu text describe this diamond as

He who owns the diamond will own The World, but will also know all its misfortunes. Only God and women can wear it with impunity.

Well by the consequences that we have seen so far it is quite evident that whoever has owned this diamond we’re either defeated or died.

  • Kakatiya dynasty (original owner) defeated by Alauddin Khilji
  • Alauddin Khilji died shortly after that and the diamond was passed on to Mughals.
  • Mughals lost the war to Nadirshah weakening their army.
  • Nadirshah died while Kohinoor was in his possession.
  • Ahmad Shah Durrani died while Kohinoor was in possession.
  • Ranjit Singh had Kohinoor with him when he lost the war with British.
  • British Empire started losing hold on its colonies including India when they had Kohinoor

This supposedly curse of Kohinoor in Britain. Only the Queen is allowed to wear the Kohinoor diamond. Men are prohibited in using it. With such a history of blood and violence behind it, no wonder this diamond has generated more curiosity in people over a period of time. We might not know if this diamond will come back to India, but the bigger question is will this be a blessing of disguised for India.