STORY

The elephant that was captured twice 

There was a huge elephant who lived in the Vindhya Hills. He had enormous tusks that looked like the thunderbolts of heaven.

One day, the elephant was caught in an iron trap laid by an elephant catcher. The animal tried to break out of the trap for three days but failed. The elephant catcher watched him from a distance. In great suffering, the elephant opened his mouth wide and uttered a roar like thunder. Then, he exerted the force of his tusks and managed to break out of the trap. 

The hunter who was watching this from far away, climbed a tall palm tree. When the elephant passed under the tree, the hunter jumped down, aiming to land on its head. Unfortunately, he missed and landed on the ground near the elephant's feet. The elephant could have easily trodden over the hunter, but it thought that was not bravery to trample over a fallen enemy. It kindly spared the life of the hunter and made his way back into the forest. 

After the elephant had gone away, the hunter slowly got up from the ground. He was relieved to see himself alive and surprised to note that despite the fall from the palm tree, he was unhurt. He felt sorry that his attempt to capture the elephant had failed. He felt like a treasure seeker who had seen the treasure only to see it slip away from him. He decided to try again. He roamed the jungle and finally found the elephant resting under a shady tree. The hunter dug a circular ditch near that place. He covered it with green branches and leaves. 

One day, the elephant was roaming in the jungle when he came to the ditch. Due to the branches and leaves, he could not see it. As soon as he stepped on them, he fell headlong. The pit was deep, and the elephant was trapped. It remained trapped there till it died. 

The elephant died because it did not kill the cruel hunter the first time. If the elephant had put an end to him, it would not have fallen into the deep pit. However, at that time, the animal was happy just at the thought of getting back its freedom. It did not think about the root cause of the problem, the hunter, and did not do anything about him. 

The lesson for us is that when we make a mistake, we must learn from it and make sure the root cause is removed so that we don’t commit it again, as the proverb says, 'to stumble twice against the same stone is a disgrace'.

ILLUMINATING INNER SELF

Celebrating festival of lights - Diwali 

Though the festival of light is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains over their respective beliefs, Diwali generally commemorates the triumph of light over darkness or wisdom over ignorance. More than that, the festival symbolises dispelling of one's inner darkness and getting rid of negative thoughts. 

प्रसादे सर्वदु:खानां हानिरस्योपजायते|

प्रसन्नचेतसो ह्याशु बुद्धि: पर्यवतिष्ठते||

When a man attains peace, all sorrow and suffering caused by the unbalanced mind and rebellious senses come to an end. By peace and purity, the mind is soon fixed in the Self.

The above verse from the Bhagavad Gita explains that when the mind is freed from impure impulses, the aim of spiritual life is achieved. Just as in a clean mirror the reflection is perfectly clear, even so in the purified mind the Self shines forth in its own splendour and glory.

As the festival of light Diwali comes closer, we start “cleaning” every nook and cranny of of our house. 

But there’s one more aspect which we ignore. Physical cleaning is no doubt necessary, but cleansing your innerself is equally important because God resides only in pure sparkling hearts. Eliminating negative feelings, thoughts, and painful pasts brings joy, happiness, and enlightenment. Cluttered inner space creates feelings of burden and stress, similar to a cluttered house. We don’t even know what occupies that particular space until and unless we clean them both – ourselves and the house. So, Diwali is not just a festival of bursting crackers and decorating houses; it is a celebration of the divine within each individual. It is a time to reflect on one’s inner light and strive for spiritual growth. The rituals and traditions associated with Diwali help individuals connect with their spiritual selves and deepen their understanding.

In history, legends: 

Apart from the return of Lord Rama from 14-year-long Vanavas, Pandavas from 12-year exile, and Puja, there are several other legends and stories associated with the celebration of Diwali.

Here’s a look at a few of them.

Rebirth of Goddess Lakshmi: Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune, holds a significant place in the celebrations of Diwali. According to the legend, there was a time when God Indra’s arrogance led Lakshmi to depart from the divine realm and take refuge in the milky ocean. Her absence plunged the world into darkness, and the gods were determined to bring her back. After churning the milky ocean (Samudra Manthan) for over thousand years, Goddess Lakshmi was eventually reborn. She emerged from the depths, seated gracefully on a magnificent lotus flower, once again bestowing her blessings of prosperity and good fortune upon the world.

Triumph over Narakasura: In the southern regions of India, the story of Lord Krishna’s triumph over demon king Narakasura has a special place in the celebrations of Diwali. Narakasura had a blessing from Lord Brahma that he could only be vanquished by the hand of his mother. Narakasura was born from earth. However, Narakasura was very sure that she would never harm him. Interestingly, his mother was reborn as Krishna’s wife, Satyabhama (incarnation of bhoodevi i.e. prithvi). When Narakasura severely injured Krishna during a battle, Satyabhama ultimately dealt the fatal blow to Narakasura. In his final moments, Narakasura requested a boon from Satyabhama that everyone should celebrate his death with colourful lights. Thus, this day is celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi - the beginning day of Diwali.

Mahavira’s Nirvana: While the previous legends come from Hindu mythology, Jains have their own reason to celebrate Diwali. Lord Mahavira, a contemporary of Gautama Buddha, reached enlightenment at the time of Diwali in the 6th century BCE, around the time of the first historical records of the festival’s observation. His achievement of nirvana serves as the primary reason why Jains celebrate Diwali.

Guru Hargobind’s release from prison: Sikhs also hold their own version of Diwali known as Bandi Chhor Divas. InSikhism, on this date, the sixteenth Guru, Guru Hargobind was released from the imprisonment of the Mughal king, Jehangir. It is also a time of year during which all Sikhs traditionally gather to receive guru blessings and has been observed as a Sikh festival since the 16th-century.

MOTHER-IN-LAW'S TONGUE

 Snake plant 🪴

Snake plant, also known as Dracaena trifasciata or Mother-in-law's Tongue, is one of the easiest plants to care for, and is great for homes and offices alike. Beyond its low-maintenance nature, it's also celebrated for its air-purifying abilities, bringing both beauty and health benefits to any space.

● Light and watering needs: Snake plants thrive in low to medium light, making them perfect for dim corners or spaces with limited sunlight. That said, avoid total darkness - no plant enjoys that! Overwatering is a common problem, as their roots are prone to rot. The key is to water sparingly, letting the soil dry out between waterings.

Depending on the climate, watering every two-four weeks is usually enough.

● Soil and fertiliser: A succulent-type soil mix works best for snake plants, as it provides good drainage and helps prevent soggy roots. These plants aren't heavy feeders and only need a little fertiliser once or twice a year, preferably during their growing season (spring to summer). A diluted liquid fertiliser is ideal.

Temperature considerations: They prefer moderate temperatures, flourishing between 15-30°C.

They're great for indoor environments but should be kept away from cold drafts.

● Common issues: If you notice yellowing or soggy leaves, it's likely due to overwatering. Make sure your pot has proper drainage, and cut back on watering to prevent root rot.

● Propagation tips: Simply cut a healthy leaf into 5-6 inch segments and plant the lower end 3-4 cm deep in soil.

After a week, water the soil, and continue watering just once a month. New roots should begin to form in one or two months.

Super tip: This plant's tolerance for low light makes it a great option for dark hallways or even bathrooms, where other plants might struggle.

Its adaptability and resilience make it a musthave for any indoor garden!

DO YOU KNOW

What is done with retired ships?

Like all machines, ships too become old and have to be retired from service. So what happens to a vessel after it has finished serving its employers?

Ships go through a process called ship-breaking. In this process, ships are disposed off by breaking down for either a source of parts, which can be sold for re-use, or the extraction of raw materials, chiefly scrap. The steel from the ship can be recycled for use in the manufacturing of new products which lowers the demand for mined iron ore and reduces energy use in the steelmaking process. Many other fittings can also be reused. 

At present, the Alang Ship Breaking Yard in Gujarat is one of the largest ship-breaking yards in the world. It has claimed to have scrapped more than half the ships of the world. 

Established in 1982-83, in the Gulf of Khambhat, in Gujarat, it consists of 153 ship-breaking yards spread over 14 kilometers along the coast and employs close to 40,000 people. Alang is currently equipped to recycle 400 to 450 ships a year. On an average it has been producing 3.5million tonnes of steel annually from recycling about 200 ships. 

Decommissioned ships are towed and beached at the shore which resembles a yard. They are then dismantled by the labourers almost manually, which is tedious and extremely hazardous, since the vessels generally carry explosive or inflammable materials like oil and gas. The bow or the front portion of the vessel is dismantled first. This provides ventilation within the vessel for dismantling the remaining hazardous parts. The materials are then sold as scrap. 

If the ship is not broken, it might be used for other purposes. Naval ships may be converted into museums or used for research. They may also be sunk as artificial reefs or as targets during naval exercises. 

JEWEL OF INDIA

"Ratan" Tata 

"I am not a person who believes in fate. I believe in hard work. "

Ratan Tata (1937 - 2024)

On October 9, 2024, Ratan Tata passed away at the age of 89, due to age related health issues in Mumbai. He was one of the most-known businessman in India. He was the former Chairman and the Chairman Emeritus of the Tata group. He was the most influential industrialist in the country and has left behind a legacy that has significantly shaped the landscape of Indian industry. Ratan Tata was an excellent leader and was known for his many acts of kindness. He helped a lot of people and had a great passion for animals. 

Who was Ratan Tata?

Ratan Tata was born on December 28, 1937, in Navsari, Gujarat to Soonoo and Naval Tata. However, he was brought up by his grandmother Navajbai R. Tata. He was born in a prominent and rich family. His great-grandfather was Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group. 

After attending school in Bombay, Ratan Tata finished high school in New York City in 1955. He then studied at Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, where he earned a B.S. (1962) in architecture before returning to India to work. 

Tata Group Leadership

 

Ratan Tata served as the Chairman of Tata Sons from 1991 to 2012 and 2016-2017. Under his leadership, the Tata Group expanded globally and diversified its business interests. Under his leadership, Tata Group also launched several successful projects, including the Tata Nano, which aimed to create an affordable car for the masses. 

He expanded the Tata Group by acquiring international companies like Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel. 

Giving back to society 

Ratan Tata believed in helping people and giving back to society. He has donated a lot of money to help schools, hospitals, poor people and communities. He loved animals and supported many animal welfare organisations. 

Awards

 

Ratan Tata has received numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan in 2008 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2014, two of India’s highest civilian honours. 

Mentorship 

After retiring, he has been active in mentoring young entrepreneurs and investing in startups through Ratan Tata Trust and other initiatives. After his retirement in 2012, he played the role of an investor, mentor and guiding light for many startups. Some startups he invested in include Snapdeal, FirstCry, Ola and CureFit.

What can we learn from Ratan Tata?

There are many valuable life lessons we can learn from Ratan Tata. Here are a few lessons:

Humility: Despite his great success, Ratan Tata was known for being humble and down-to-earth. This teaches us to be grounded and respectful to everyone despite our success. 

Generosity and Giving Back: Ratan Tata has always given back to society through his numerous charitable initiatives. This shows us that true success means helping others and improving the world around us. 

Hard Work and Dedication: His success came from dedication and perseverance, showing us that effort pays off. 

Resilience: Ratan Tata also faced many challenging situations and setbacks in his career. This teaches us that we need to be determined and constantly persevere and understand that failures are a part of the journey to success. 

Integrity: Ratan Tata was well known for his honesty and strong moral values. This shows that it is always important to do the right thing, even when it's difficult. Always standing up for the right thing, ensures respect and success. 

DO YOU KNOW

How our hands work?

Our hands are complex feats of biological engineering.

The palm of the hand is made up of five bones called metacarpals. In between are the interossei muscles, and on each side of the palm are bulging muscle groups called the hypothenar (near the little finger) and the thenar (near the thumb). These work to cup the hand and to move the thumb in and out so that it can grip. The bones belonging to the fore and middle fingers don’t move much, but the ones connected to the little and ring fingers and the thumb are much more mobile.

The fingers themselves are made up of bones called phalanges – three for each finger and two for the thumb. They are connected to muscles in the forearm by tendons that run through the wrist. The flexor tendons run up on the underside through a space called the carpal tunnel – they bend the fingers. The extensor tendons come across the top of the wrist – they pull the fingers straight.

All of this movement is controlled by three nerves: the median, radial and ulnar. The median nerve supplies the thumb, the index and middle fingers, half of the ring finger and the palm of the hand. The ulnar feeds the other half of the ring finger and the little finger, and the radial looks after the thumb and the back of the hand.

POPULAR CARTOON CHARACTER

Elsa

Elsa, the enchanting and powerful character from Disney’s "Frozen", has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Introduced in the 2013 animated film Elsa is the Snow Queen of Arendelle. Her magical ability to create ice and snow inadvertently plunges her kingdom into eternal winter. Voiced by Idina Menzel, Elsa embarks on a journey of self-discovery, embracing her powers and learning to control them. Her anthem, "Let It Go", became a global sensation, symbolising empowerment and freedom. 

Elsa's character resonates with audiences for her strength, resilience, and the message of self-acceptance. She challenges traditional princess stereotypes, emphasising the importance of love between sisters Elsa and Anna.  This iconic character has become a symbol of empowerment, inspiring countless fans to embrace their uniqueness and let their inner strength shine. 

ARE YOU AWARE?

Why do all Indian mobiles start with +91?

Indian mobile numbers start with +91 because +91 is the international dialling code assigned to India. This code is used to identify a specific country or region when making international phone calls. When you dial +91 before an Indian mobile number, it tells the phone network that you are trying to call someone in India. 

The use of International dialling code allows for efficient and organised global communication. Each country is assigned a unique code to ensure that calls are routed to the correct destination. In India, +91 has been designated as its country code. 

The practice is not unique to India; every country has its international dialling code. It simplifies the process of making international calls and ensures that the calls reach the intended recipients in the correct country. So when you see +91 before an Indian mobile number, it’s a part of the global system that facilitates international communication. 

WEAVING LEGACY, EMPOWERING ARTISANS

Indian Handloom 

India’s handloom sector is a living testament to the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Rooted in tradition, the art of handloom weaving has been passed down through generations, embodying the diverse cultural ethos of various regions. From the intricate Banarasi silks of Varanasi to the vibrant Phulkari from Punjab, Indian handlooms represent a confluence of history, artistry, and sustainability. This heritage not only showcases India’s craftsmanship but also provides livelihoods to over 35 lakh artisans.

10th National Handloom Day: A Tribute to Weavers

The 7th of August holds a special place in India’s history, marking the beginning of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905. This movement, which encouraged the use of indigenous products, played a crucial role in promoting the handloom industry. In recognition of this legacy, the Government of India, in 2015, declared August 7th as National Handloom Day. This day is dedicated to honouring the handloom weaving community and highlighting their contribution to the socioeconomic fabric of the nation. National Handloom Day, resolves to protect and promote our handloom heritage and to make it stronger than ever.

Initiatives Empowering Weavers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is making every effort to promote handloom and support the weavers who uphold this rich tradition. Under his 5F Vision—Farm to Fibre to Fabric to Fashion to Foreign—the handloom sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Initiatives such as the Design Resource Centres are providing weavers, manufacturers, and designers with access to extensive design repositories, fostering innovation and driving excellence in the craft. Moreover, handloom villages located in popular tourist destinations like Kanihama in Jammu & Kashmir and Sharan in Himachal Pradesh are creating new opportunities for tourism and handloom sales, allowing visitors to take home a piece of India’s vibrant weaving tradition.

THE LANGUAGE OF NUMBERS

Sanskrit 

Sanskrit, the ancient language of India, is revered not only for its literary and philosophical richness but also for its profound influence on mathematics. The term ‘ganita,’ which means mathematics, originates from the Sanskrit root ‘gana,’ signifying ‘to count’ or ‘to enumerate.’ This connection underscores the deep relationship between Sanskrit and the development of mathematical thought in India.

Mathematical Foundations in Vedic Period: The seeds of mathematical inquiry were sown as early as the Vedic period. The Vedas, foundational scriptures of Indian knowledge, contain references to numbers, arithmetic progressions, and geometry. The intricate designs of Vedic altars, which required precise mathematical calculations, are evidence of this early engagement with mathematical concepts.

Pioneering Mathematicians: Indian mathematicians such as Aryabhata and Brahmagupta later elevated these early concepts to unprecedented heights. Aryabhata’s Aryabhatiya is a landmark work that covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Brahmagupta’s Brahma-sphutasiddhanta expanded on these ideas, introducing quadratic equations and the concept of zero. 

Interplay of Language and Logic in Sanskrit Mathematics: The precision and conciseness of Sanskrit make it an ideal language for expressing complex mathematical ideas. The structure of Sanskrit grammar, with its patterns and symmetries, mirrors the underlying principles of mathematics. This linguistic framework enabled Indian scholars to articulate sophisticated mathematical concepts with clarity and elegance.

India’s Mathematical Contributions: India’s contributions to global mathematics are unparalleled, particularly the concept of zero, known as ‘shunya’ in Sanskrit, meaning void. This numeral revolutionized mathematics and introduced the concept of infinity. India also pioneered the decimal system, algebra, algorithms, square and cube roots, centuries before these ideas reached the rest of the world.

As we seek to revitalize Sanskrit today, it is crucial to recognize its invaluable role in the history of mathematics. By studying ancient Sanskrit texts, we not only honor the intellectual brilliance of our ancestors but also gain new insights into contemporary mathematical challenges. The deep connection between Sanskrit and mathematics offers a unique perspective on the evolution of human knowledge and innovation.

A SPOOKY CELEBRATION

Halloween

Halloween is a fun and spooky holiday celebrated on the night of October 31st. It’s a time when children and adults dress up in costumes, go trick-or-treating, and have lots of fun with eerie decorations. But do you know where Halloween comes from and why we celebrate it? Let’s dive into the world of Halloween and find out!

The Origins of Halloween: 

Halloween has a fascinating history that dates back over 2,000 years. Its roots can be traced to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. The Celts believed that on the night of October 31st, the boundary between the living and the dead became blurred. They would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off evil spirits.

Trick-or-Treating:
One of the most exciting parts of Halloween for kids is trick-or-treating. Children dress up in costumes and visit houses in their neighbourhood, knocking on doors and shouting, “Trick or Treat!” People give them sweets and treats to prevent any tricks from being played on them. It’s all in good fun, and kids often collect a big bag of candy on Halloween night.

Spooky Decorations:
Halloween wouldn’t be the same without creepy decorations. Houses and gardens are adorned with carved pumpkins, also known as Jack-o’-Lanterns. These are pumpkins with scary faces lit up from the inside by a candle or a light. They are said to ward off evil spirits and add a spooky atmosphere to the celebration.

Dressing Up in Costumes:
Another exciting aspect of Halloween is choosing and wearing costumes. Children and adults love to transform themselves into spooky or funny characters. You can be anything you like, from a ghost to a superhero or even your favourite movie character. It’s a chance to let your imagination run wild!

Haunted Houses and Ghost Stories:
You might hear spooky ghost stories and tales of haunted places as Halloween approaches. Many people enjoy visiting haunted houses for a good scare. Some even believe that on Halloween, the spirits of the dead return to visit their old homes.

Halloween Around the World:
While Halloween is most popular in the United States, it’s celebrated in various forms in many countries. In India, for example, there are similar traditions during the days of the dead, and people light lamps and candles to honour their ancestors.

In Conclusion:

Halloween is a spooktacular holiday filled with fun and excitement. It has ancient origins, and today, it’s a time for children and adults to dress up in costumes, go trick-or-treating, and enjoy spooky decorations. Whether you believe in ghosts or enjoy the sweet treats, Halloween is a time to celebrate with friends and family.

VR

Virtual Reality 

Virtual Reality is an exciting technology that allows individuals to explore new environments, play games and learn in a completely immersive manner. It offers an interactive and educational experience that is both enjoyable and engaging. 

In 1968, Ivan Sutherland and his student, Bob Sproull, created first AR/VR mounted display connected to a computer, also known as the Ultimate Display. 

What is Virtual Reality?

Virtual Reality (VR) is computer-generated 3D environment that enables users to explore and interact with scenes and objects that appear to be real. Software is used to produce games, sounds and other sensations that create the illusion that the person is physically present in that environment. 

How does VR work?

VR headsets are wearable devices that track sensory information. When wearing a VR handset, your natural field of view is replaced with a computer-generated one. The headset projects a 360-degree digital environment that can be explored and navigated. Various electronic components such as display screens, 3D graphics and sound cards and process accelerator cards, enhance the content produced using cameras, motion sensors, infrared LEDs and speakers. The future of virtual reality is moving towards multisensory experiences, aiming for greater realism to enhance user immersion. 

Types of Virtual Reality 

● Non-immersive VR: Non-immersive interaction in the virtual environment is indirect, users do not experience the sensation of being physically present. The user remains aware of their physical surroundings while simultaneously accessing a 3D simulated environment through a computer screen. Control over the digital environment is achieved using devices like a keyboard, mouse, joystick and other peripherals. Examples of non-immersive VR include video games or websites that enable users to design room decor. 

● Semi-immersive VR: Interaction in the semi-immersive virtual environment is partial. Users feel as if they are in a different reality when focused on the digital image, yet remain connected to their physical surroundings. This set up involves a large concave screen, a projection system, a monitor and glasses or handsets with high-end computer graphics. An example of semi-immersive virtual reality is a flight simulator used by airlines and militaries to train pilots. 

● Fully-immersive VR: Fully-immersive VR completely envelopes the user in a simulated 3D world. This type of VR incorporates sight, sound and sometimes touch. Users wear specialised equipment such as helmets, goggles or glasses, a head-mounted display (HMD) and gloves, effectively disconnecting them from the physical world. Although fully-immersive VR technology is still in its early stages, it has already made significant advancements in the gaming industry. 

Applications of Virtual Reality 

● Training: VR provides an active experience during training, offering more than just passive information absorption. It proves particularly beneficial in areas requiring high-risk or highly specialised skills, such as training firefighters, police officers, soldiers and surgeons. 

● Education: Students can grasp complex concepts, subjects or theories better. VR enhances memory retention, recall, hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness. For instance, a history teacher might use VR to illustrate life in ancient Greece or China. 

● Entertainment: VR has had a profound impact on the gaming industry, offering gamers a chance to navigate challenges in a virtual world alongside virtual characters. The film and television sectors are also exploring ways to provide viewers with immersive experiences. Virtual tourism enables people to virtually experience distant locations, going beyond mere pictures. 

● Healthcare and Medicine: VR enables doctors to practise various surgeries in a virtual space using haptic controllers with VR software guiding surgeons through necessary steps. VR can also be used to explain surgical procedures to patients. 

● Real Estate and Interiors: VR allows home buyers to virtually tour properties, architects to showcase detailed 3D plans and homeowners to preview remodelled homes. This offers an accurate feel for scale, depth and spatial awareness. 

● Engineering: VR engineering involves using 3D modelling tools and visualisation techniques during the design phase. Engineers can view projects in 3D, gaining better understanding and identifying potential risks before implementation. This also provides a safe environment for design adjustments. 

A BIRD-WATCHER'S PARADISE

Keoladeo National Park

India is privileged to have a national park that is acknowledged as one of the world’s most important bird breeding and feeding grounds. This is the Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, where hundreds of exotic migratory birds from faraway Siberia, Central Asia, and Africa arrive to spend the winter.

The park, spanning an area of 29 sq km in the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan, about 55 km west of Agra and 175 km southwest of Delhi, occupies a strategic location in the middle of the Central Asian migratory flyway and also has abundant water. These two factors have caused it to become an internationally important region where birds migrating down the Central Asian flyway congregate before dispersing to other regions.

This park is the only known wintering site of the central population of the critically endangered Siberian crane. It also serves as a wintering area for other globally threatened species such as the greaterspotted eagle and imperial eagle.

Originally a private hunting ground of the Maharaja of Bharatpur, the site was notified as a bird sanctuary in 1956. In 1982, it was elevated to the status of a national park and renamed after the Keoladeo temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that stands at the centre of the site. The same year, it was designated as a Ramsar site(wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention). 

In 1985, the Keoladeo NationalPark was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Today, it not only is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, but also serves as an important research and conservation centre for ornithologists and ecologists. The park has an interesting history. The area where it stands was originally a natural depression that was inundated when Maharaja Suraj Mal, the ruler of the then princely state of Bharatpur, constructed a bund at the confluence of the Gambhir and Banganga rivers between 1726 and 1763 to prevent floods in his capital. This resulted in the development of an area comprising lakes and ponds, woodlands, wetlands and marshes with a lot of aquatic vegetation that attracted numerous migratory birds. 

It was subsequently designated as the ruler’s private duck-hunting reserve for the use of the royal family and their colonial visitors, and was later formally inaugurated in 1901 by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India. As per an inscription found on a pillar near the temple, the then Viceroy, Lord Linlithgow, set a record on November 12, 1938 by shooting 4,273 birds here in a single day. 

Even after the site was turned over to the Forestry department, the Maharaja continued to retain shooting rights until 1972, when the Wildlife (Protection) Act was passed, prohibiting hunting.

With a wide diversity of habitats ranging from marshes, woodlands, scrublands, and grasslands to denuded saline patches, the park supports an amazing variety of plant and animal species. One third of the habitat is wetland with varying types of micro habitats having trees, mounds, dykes, and open water with or without submerged or emergent plants. The remaining terrain consists of tropical dry deciduous forest, scrub woodland, and dry grassland. More than 370 species of birds have been recorded in the park, the most common being the gadwall, shoveler, spotbill, common teal, lesser whistling duck, tufted duck, comb duck, cotton pygmy-goose, great cormorant, little cormorant, Indian shag, ruff, painted stork, white spoonbill, Asian open billed stork, black-headed ibis, oriental darter, common sandpiper, wood sandpiper and green sandpiper. 

Apart from the birds for which itis renowned, the Keoladeo National Park is also home to about 30 species of mammals, including the chital, sambar, nilgai, blackbuck, rhesus macaque, wild boar, Bengal fox, jackal, striped hyena, common palm civet, small Indian civet, crested porcupine, and Indian hare; 13 species of snakes including the python, cobra, krait and Russell’s viper; 5 lizards; 7turtles; and 7 amphibians.

COMBATING POLLUTION

Space debris

Space above Earth is turning progressively crowded. Space debris, or orbital debris, refers to the accumulation of non-operational items around Earth’s orbit, including old satellites, rocket stages that no longer operate, and pieces from collisions or explosions. As the number of space constellations and exploration grows at a never-before-seen rate, one question becomes important about space junk: This debris itself poses a great degree of danger to operational satellites, space missions, and other future exploratory undertakings. In these respects, battling orbital pollution is actually of the essence in order to guarantee that space operations are sustained appropriately for future generations.

Space debris refers to any human-made object that is no longer serving its functional purpose but still in Earth’s orbit. The sizes vary from tiny paint flecks to large and derelict satellites. The majority of the debris is housed in what is termed the Low Earth Orbit, which extends up to 2,000 kilometers above Earth’s surface. It is, particularly, pretty congested, as it is where most of the satellite operations take place: communication, Earth observation, and scientific research, among others. Some of the reasons why such buildups of space debris occur include the following: failed spacecraft, spent rocket stages, and fragments from explosions or collisions. The first significant awareness of the problem was the collision between the defunct Russian satellite Kosmos-2251 and an operational Iridium communications satellite back in 2009, adding several thousand fragments of debris into LEO. Since that accident happened, things have only gotten worse due to the increased number of launches.

Space debris poses a number of different risks to current and future space operations. Active satellites, space stations, and manned missions face the risk of being hit by debris with velocity mostly exceeding the speed of 28,000 kilometers per hour. In such great speed, even small fragments may cause serious damage: a paint chip is able to puncture the surface of a spacecraft, and collision with a big piece can destroy the whole satellite, thus contributing to the problem of debris. The Kessler Syndrome (1978), theorized by NASA scientist Donald Kessler, is an exponential growth cascade where space debris collides with satellites and other debris, creating fragments that collide further until possibly rendering parts of space unusable for decades or longer. Not yet collective, the Kessler Syndrome is a reason for concern due to the growing density of objects in LEO, which should be met with proactive measures.

Recently, the efforts to reduce space debris have been gaining momentum. Most of the efforts now go toward prevention rather than removal of debris. International guidelines such as those by UNOOSA and IADC, for instance, recommend designing satellites in such a way that they can deorbit no longer than 25 years after the end of their mission. This is often done by lowering their orbits so their re-entry into the atmosphere causes them to burn up. 

In addition, satellite operators are also summoned to carry out end-of-life maneuvers that safely remove those spacecraft from operational orbits. For geostationary satellites, that normally includes separation in a “graveyard orbit,” a place far away from the critical orbital zones where those defunct satellites can stay in without interfering with operational spacecraft.

While prevention is paramount, guidelines and best practices alone cannot solve the issue of the already existing debris.

ANCIENT LANGUAGES RICH IN LITERATURE

Classical Languages

The Union Cabinet has recently approved giving the status of ‘classical language’ to five more languages - Marathi, Bengali, Pali, Prakrit, and Assamese. With this cabinet decision, the number of languages that have the status will nearly double from six to 11. The languages that had the tag earlier were Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia. Tamil was granted the status in 2004 and the last language to get it was Odia, in 2014. Prakrit and Pali are two distinct languages that have been derived from Sanskrit.

What is the criteria for a language to be recognised as classical?

The following criteria have to be met:

● High antiquity of the language’s early texts/recorded history over a period of 1,500-2,000 years.

● A body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a heritage by generations of speakers.

● Knowledge texts, especially prose texts in addition to poetry, epigraphical and inscriptional evidence.

● The classical languages and literature could be distinct from their current form or could be discontinuous with later forms of their offshoots.

CAMPAIGNS, VOTES AND ELECTIONS

To elect the President of America

Every four years, US citizens cast their vote for the person they think should hold the coveted position of president of their country.

In 2024, another election is on the horizon, when the nation will decide if Democratic nominee Kamala Harris or Republican Donald Trump will be the next president to hold office. At the ballot box, Americans make their decision on who they think should be the next person to run the country. However, they’re not directly voting for the next president. Instead, they’re voting for members of the Electoral College, called ‘electors’, whose job it is to elect the president and the vice president. According to the American Constitution, electors can’t be members of Congress or hold federal office and are elected by political parties.

Each state has its own number of electors, based on the state’s resident population. The more citizens in the state, the more electors that state holds. For example, California has more than 40 million inhabitants and 55 electors, whereas Wyoming only has around 500,000 residents and just three electors. All but two states have a winner-takes-all policy, where all the state’s electoral votes are given to the candidate that wins the state’s popular vote. Maine and Nebraska differ by distributing electors within their congressional districts, along with two ‘at-large’ electoral votes based on the overall state-wide popular vote. Electors often pledge to their states to vote for the same presidential nominee as the result of their state’s popular vote. However, that hasn’t always been the case. There have been 157 ‘faithless electors’ who, when faced with casting their electoral vote, have chosen an alternative candidate. There have been several reasons why an elector has changed their vote, including the death of a nominee, a change in candidate within the same party or, in one case, by accident. In 1796, a Federalist elector from Pennsylvania intentionally switched their vote from Federalist nominee John Adams to Democratic-Republican Thomas Jefferson.

All in all, there are 538 electors across the country – equal to the number of House Representatives and Congress members – and a further three votes for the District of Columbia, that decide the next president. The candidate with more than half of the votes (270) wins the presidency. If on the rare occasion a single candidate doesn’t get more than 270 votes, then the House of Representatives elects the president. The two-stage voting system of the Electoral College can result in a unique situation where a candidate can win the votes of the electors, despite not winning the popular vote from all 50 states. For example, in 2016 Donald Trump won the electoral vote against Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton but lost the popular vote by more than 2 million votes.

Despite its intricacies, the Electoral College has served the American people for 237 years. Having broken away from the royal rule of Great Britain during the 18th century, the infant nation of America wasn’t in a hurry to live under a dictatorship. As a solution to electing a new leader and government, the Electoral College was conceived by America’s Founding Fathers at a time when the majority of the world’s countries didn’t hold democratic elections. Political pioneers such as George Washington and Alexander Hamilton debated a new way to elect a presidential leader during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787. While many of the attending delegates wanted a congress to elect a president, others believed that a popular democratic vote should decide who was put into power. As a compromise between the two ideas, the Electoral College was born.

The Electoral College system was ratified with the Constitution in 1789. However, since then there have been a whole host of amendments that have changed who and how people vote for the president of the United States. For example, in 1804 the 12th Amendment to the Constitution changed the way that vice presidents were elected.

Originally, the position of vice president was held by the runner-up in the general election, who was seen as the second most qualified candidate for president. The 12th Amendment made it possible for the public to elect a vice president, rather than the position being automatically filled. In 1868 the 14th Amendment gave African Americans the right to vote, and the 19th Amendment gave women the right to vote in 1920. In 1971, the 26th Amendment lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 years old.

To date, there have been 46 US presidencies served by 45 men – this is due to President Grover Cleveland’s two nonconsecutive terms as the 22nd and 24th president. Only two women have ever been put forward as a presidential nominee. Hillary Clinton was the first female nominee during the 2016 election, and current vice president Kamala Harris is the second during the 2024 race. Could 2024 be the year that history is made with the first female to step into the iconic Oval Office as president of the United States? The world will find out after voting takes place on 5 November 2024 during the 60th quadrennial presidential election.

A CELEBRATION OF TOGETHERNESS

 Through community meals 

What's unique about Chandanki, a village in Gujarat? Here, food isn’t cooked in any house. Instead, food for everyone is prepared in one place, where all the residents gather to sit and eat together. This is Chandanki’s antidote to loneliness. 

With a majority of its youngsters migrating to cities in India and abroad, Chandanki was left with a large number of senior citizens. A decade earlier, it had a population of over a thousand, but today it has around 500 people, most of whom are between 55 and 85 years of age. Many of these elderly people would cook food once a day only. Also, elderly women who had health problems found it hard, if not impossible, to cook meals. 

To address these issues, a group of villagers started a community kitchen. For a small fee, Chandanki’s residents get access to two meals a day prepared by hired cooks. The lunch includes dal, rice, chapatti, sabzi and a dessert. For dinner, there is khichdi, kadhi, bhakri (rotis made from millet) and sabzi. Additionally, namkeen (which includes pakodas made from methi or fenugreek leaves), dhokla and idli-sambar are also served. 

The meals are eaten in a solarpowered air-conditioned hall adjacent to the community kitchen. The dining hall has thus emerged as a space where all the inhabitants of Chandanki gather together and share their joys and sorrows over their meals. During weekends, their grown-up children (who now reside in cities) come to Chandanki to visit them and they too join in the community meals. 

Interestingly, the sarpanch of the village, Poonambhai Patel, left his home in Ahmedabad and moved to Chandanki to supervise the community kitchen properly. The practice of cooking and consuming community meals is not just about food. It is also about strengthening the social fabric of a people and nurturing them. Chandanki’s future plans include constructing a park to further this feeling of togetherness among its inhabitants. 

FATHER OF MODERN GENETICS

Gregor Mendel

Gregor Mendel was an Austrian monk who discovered the basic principles of heredity through experiments in his garden.

Mendel’s observations became the foundation of modern genetics and the study of heredity, and he is widely considered as ‘The Father of Modern Genetics’.

Early Life 

Gregor Johann Mendel was born on July 22, 1822, to Anton and Rosine Mendel, on his family’s farm, in Heinzendorf, Austria. He spent his early youth in that rural setting. In 1840, he graduated from the secondary school in Troppau with honors.

Following his schooling, Mendel graduated from the Philosophical Institute of the University of Olmutz in 1843. That same year, against the wishes of his father, Mendel began studying to be a monk. He joined the Augustinian order at the St. Thomas Monastery.

Scientific Exposure

In 1851, he was sent to the University of Vienna, at the monastery’s expense, to continue his studies in the sciences. While there, Mendel studied mathematics and physics under Christian Doppler, after whom the Doppler effect of wave frequency is named.

He studied botany under Franz Unger, who had begun using a microscope in his studies.

In 1853, upon completing his studies at the University of Vienna, Mendel returned to the monastery in Brno and he began the experiments for which he is best known.

Experiments and Theories

Around 1854, Mendel began to do research on the transmission of hereditary traits in plant hybrids. Mendel’s research continued over as many as eight years and involved tens of thousands of individual plants.

Mendel chose to use peas for his experiments due to their many distinct varieties. After analyzing his results, he reached two of his most important conclusions: the Law of Segregation, which established that there are dominant and recessive traits which were passed on randomly from parents to offspring and the Law of Independent Assortment, which established that traits were passed on independently of other traits from parents to offspring.

In 1865, Mendel delivered two lectures on his findings to the Natural Science Society in Brno. Mendel did little to promote his work. The importance of his work was largely overlooked at that period.

Later life and Legacy

Gregor Mendel died on January 6, 1884, at the age of 61. His work, however, was still largely unknown.

But, decades later, Mendel’s research was recognized by several noted geneticists, botanists, and biologists conducting research on heredity. Its significance was more fully appreciated, and his studies began to be referred to as Mendel’s Laws. His research and theories are considered fundamental to any understanding of the field of genetics, and he is thus considered the ‘Father of Modern Genetics’.

A MARVEL OF ANCIENT INDIA

Rani ka Vav (The Queen’s Stepwell)

Hidden in the small town of Patan in Gujarat, India, lies Rani ka Vav (The Queen’s Stepwell), a breathtaking example of ancient Indian architecture and artistry. This incredible stepwell, built in the 11th century by Queen Udayamati in memory of her husband King Bhimdev I, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage.

A Step Back in Time: Rani ka Vav is no ordinary well. Stretching 64 meters long, 20 meters wide, and 27 meters deep, this seven-story marvel showcases over 800 intricate sculptures and carvings. These artworks depict Gods, Goddesses and scenes from Hindu mythology, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Architectural WonderThe design of the stepwell is a masterpiece of engineering. Its precise construction allows natural light and air to reach the deepest levels, creating a cool and serene environment. This ingenious use of space and resources highlights the advanced knowledge of ancient Indian builders.

Cultural Significance: Beyond its beauty, Rani ka Vav is a testament to the love and respect of Queen Udayamati for her husband. It also emphasizes the importance of women in history, showcasing the queen’s role in commissioning and overseeing this grand project. The stepwell reflects the prosperity and artistic flair of the Solanki dynasty.

Educational Treasure: For students, Rani ka Vav offers more than just a history lesson. It provides insights into ancient engineering, art and culture. Visiting or studying this stepwell can inspire appreciation for historical monuments and the importance of preserving them.

Rani ka Vav is not just a stepwell; it is a gateway to India’s glorious past. Each carving and structure tells a story, inviting us to explore and cherish our heritage. This magnificent stepwell stands as a reminder of our ancestors’ creativity and ingenuity, encouraging us to preserve such treasures for future generations.