When Trees Became a Symbol of Resistance

CHIPKO MOVEMENT 

The Chipko Movement was a historic environmental movement in India that showed the world how ordinary people could protect nature through peaceful action. The word “Chipko” comes from the Hindi word meaning “to hug” or “to cling”, symbolising the act of villagers hugging trees to prevent them from being cut down. What began in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand (then part of Uttar Pradesh) in the 1970s grew into a powerful message of environmental conservation and people’s participation.

Background of the Movement

During the 1960s and early 1970s, large-scale commercial logging was carried out in the forests of the Himalayan region. While contractors and industries benefited from this deforestation, local villagers—especially farmers and women—suffered the consequences. Forests that provided fuel, fodder, food, and protection from floods and landslides were disappearing rapidly.

Repeated floods, soil erosion, and scarcity of basic resources made people realise that forest destruction was directly affecting their lives. When the government granted permission to a sports goods company to cut trees in the forests near villages, the locals decided to act.

How the Chipko Movement Began

The movement is believed to have begun in 1973 in Mandal village (present-day Uttarakhand). When loggers arrived to cut trees, villagers—led largely by women—embraced the trees and formed a human shield, refusing to move. Their peaceful resistance forced the contractors to retreat.

One of the most iconic moments came in 1974 in Reni village, where women led by Gaura Devi confronted the loggers. With courage and determination, they protected the forest by hugging the trees, declaring that the forest was like a mother to them.

Key Leaders and Contributors

Several individuals played important roles in spreading and strengthening the movement:

Sunderlal Bahuguna – An environmentalist who took the message of Chipko across India and beyond through padayatras (foot marches).

Chandi Prasad Bhatt – A Gandhian activist who helped organise local communities and emphasised sustainable use of forest resources.

Gaura Devi – A village woman whose leadership highlighted the crucial role of women in environmental protection.

Role of Women in the Chipko Movement

Women were at the heart of the Chipko Movement. Since they were the primary collectors of fuelwood, fodder, and water, they felt the impact of deforestation most strongly. Their participation showed that environmental protection is closely linked to everyday survival and social justice. The movement also became an early example of eco-feminism, highlighting the connection between women and nature.

Impact and Significance

● The Chipko Movement had far-reaching effects:

● It led to a 15-year ban on green felling in the Himalayan forests announced by the government in 1980.

● It brought environmental issues into national discussion.

● It inspired future movements focused on sustainable development and conservation.

● It showed the power of non-violent protest, echoing Gandhian principles.

Did You Know?

● The Chipko Movement is often called India’s first major environmental movement.

● Similar movements inspired by Chipko later emerged, such as the Appiko Movement in Karnataka.

● The movement emphasised that forests are not just sources of timber but life-support systems for communities.

Conclusion

The Chipko Movement stands as a powerful reminder that protecting nature is a collective responsibility. Through peaceful resistance, courage, and unity, ordinary villagers proved that development should never come at the cost of the environment. Even today, as the world faces climate change and ecological crises, the spirit of Chipko continues to inspire people to stand up for the planet—sometimes by simply holding on to what truly matters.

Building a Healthier Nation

FIT India Movement

The FIT India Movement is a nationwide initiative launched to encourage people to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle. Recognising that good health is the foundation of a strong nation, this movement aims to make fitness an integral part of daily life for every Indian.

Launch of the FIT India Movement: The FIT India Movement was launched on 29 August 2019 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of National Sports Day, which marks the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. The initiative highlights the importance of physical activity, balanced nutrition, and mental well-being.

Objectives of the Movement

The main goal of the FIT India Movement is to promote fitness as a way of life rather than a short-term activity. It encourages citizens to:

● Include physical exercise in their daily routine

● Reduce sedentary habits and screen time

● Follow healthy eating practices

● Improve mental health and overall well-being

Key Initiatives Under FIT India

Several programmes have been launched under the FIT India Movement to reach people of all age groups:

● Fit India School Programme: Encourages students to stay active through sports, yoga, and daily exercise

● Fit India Freedom Run: Promotes running and walking to celebrate fitness and freedom

● Fit India Cyclothon: Encourages cycling as an eco-friendly and healthy activity

● Yoga and traditional sports: Promotes India’s ancient wellness practices and indigenous games

Role of Schools and Communities: Schools play a vital role in spreading the message of fitness. Daily physical activities, yoga sessions, and sports competitions help children develop healthy habits from a young age. Community events, fitness challenges, and awareness campaigns also motivate people to participate actively.

FIT India and a Healthy Future: The movement addresses growing health concerns such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and stress, which are often linked to inactive lifestyles. By encouraging regular exercise and mindful living, FIT India aims to reduce lifestyle-related diseases and improve the quality of life of citizens.

Did You Know?

🏃 National Sports Day is celebrated on 29 August every year in India.

🧘 The FIT India Movement promotes yoga and traditional Indian sports alongside modern fitness activities.

🇮🇳 The initiative encourages citizens to take a FIT India pledge to stay active and healthy.

Conclusion: The FIT India Movement is more than a government initiative—it is a call for every Indian to take responsibility for their health. By adopting simple habits like walking, exercising, eating well, and staying active, citizens can contribute to building a fitter, healthier, and stronger India.

India’s Digital Payment Revolution

UNIFIED PAYMENTS INTERFACE (UPI)

India’s Unified Payments Interface, popularly known as UPI, has transformed the way people send and receive money. What began as a simple idea to make digital payments easier has today become a global benchmark for fast, secure, and inclusive payment systems.

UPI: The World’s Largest Fast-Pay System

In its 2025 report, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) officially recognised India’s UPI as the world’s largest retail real-time payment system. According to the report, UPI processes around 129.3 billion real-time transactions annually, accounting for nearly 49% of all real-time digital payments across the globe.

This remarkable achievement places India ahead of countries like Brazil, Thailand, China, and South Korea in the use of instant payment platforms.

How UPI Changed Everyday Payments

UPI allows users to transfer money instantly using a mobile phone, without needing bank account numbers or IFSC codes. A simple UPI ID or QR code is enough to complete a transaction within seconds.

Today, UPI is used for:

● Paying at local shops and supermarkets

● Shopping on apps and online platforms

● Booking transport and travel

● Paying electricity, water, and gas bills

● Accessing government services and subsidies

From street vendors to large malls, UPI has become a part of daily life for millions of Indians.

A Boost to Financial Inclusion

One of UPI’s biggest successes is how it has brought digital payments to people across cities, towns, and villages. With just a smartphone and a bank account, anyone can use UPI. This has helped small businesses, farmers, and self-employed workers become part of the formal digital economy.

UPI Goes Global

UPI’s success is no longer limited to India. The platform is now accepted in several countries, allowing Indian travellers to pay abroad using the same apps they use at home.

Did You Know?

🇮🇳 UPI is accepted in countries like Singapore, Bhutan, and the UAE, making international payments simple for Indian travellers.

📱 UPI works 24/7, even on bank holidays.

💡 It was launched in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

🌍 Many countries are studying UPI as a model to build their own digital payment systems.

The Future of UPI

With features like UPI Lite, credit on UPI, and cross-border payments, the system continues to evolve. As India moves toward a cash-light economy, UPI stands as a powerful example of how technology can make everyday life simpler, faster, and more connected.

Largest national park in India

HEMIS NATIONAL PARK, LADAKH 

India’s largest national park, Hemis National Park, spans an expansive area of approximately 4,400 square kilometres. Located in the rugged mountains of Ladakh, at the northernmost edge of India, the park is renowned for its dramatic and starkly beautiful landscapes, ranging from alpine meadows and river valleys to barren, rocky mountains.

Hemis National Park is one of the few places in the world where the elusive snow leopard—an endangered species often referred to as the “Ghost of the Mountains”—can be spotted in its natural habitat. This remarkable animal earns its nickname due to its exceptional ability to camouflage itself within the snowy and rocky terrain of high-altitude regions.

The park derives its name from the famous Hemis Monastery, a 17th-century Tibetan Buddhist monastery located near its northwestern boundary. This monastery is one of the largest and wealthiest in Ladakh and is an important centre of Buddhist culture and learning.

Hemis National Park is the largest protected area in the Indian Himalayas and has been designated as a Snow Leopard Reserve under Project Snow Leopard, a flagship conservation programme launched by the Government of India to protect snow leopards and their fragile high-altitude ecosystems.

Historically, the region was inhabited by small communities of peasants and nomadic herders living in scattered villages. In 1981, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir officially declared the area a national park, initially covering only 600 square kilometres. Over the years, successive expansions increased its size to the present extent, making it not only the largest national park in India but also the largest in South Asia.

Hemis National Park represents the Trans-Himalayan ecosystem, characterised by sparse human population, extreme climatic conditions, and rugged terrain. The landscape is marked by deep gorges, steep cliffs, and broken slopes. Being located in the rain-shadow region of the Himalayas, the area receives minimal rainfall. Consequently, vegetation is limited and mainly consists of dry alpine and subalpine forests, including juniper, willow, dry birch, and fir at lower elevations.

Despite the harsh environment, the park supports a rich variety of wildlife. Apart from the snow leopard, notable mammals found here include the Himalayan blue sheep (bharal), the Eurasian lynx, the Tibetan wolf, the Ladakhi urial, and the Himalayan marmot.

Hemis National Park is also a haven for birdlife. It hosts high-altitude birds of prey such as the golden eagle, bearded vulture, Himalayan griffon vulture, and Eurasian eagle-owl, along with several wintering songbirds and ground-dwelling species like the Tibetan snowcock and chukar partridge.

Today, with its well-known trekking and hiking routes, Hemis National Park has emerged as a popular destination for eco-tourism and Himalayan trekking, attracting wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers from across the world.

Did You Know?

🔹 Hemis National Park is larger than some Indian states, such as Goa and Sikkim, in terms of protected wilderness area.

🔹 The snow leopard cannot roar; instead, it communicates through hissing, growling, and a distinctive “chuffing” sound.

🔹 The park lies at an altitude ranging from 3,300 metres to over 6,000 metres, making it one of the highest national parks in the world.

🔹 Hemis Monastery hosts the famous Hemis Festival every year, celebrating the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava with masked dances and rituals.

🔹 The region’s extreme cold allows many animals to survive with thick fur and wide paws, which act like natural snowshoes.

🔹 Due to low human disturbance, Hemis National Park is considered one of the best natural laboratories for studying high-altitude wildlife and climate adaptation.

Honouring India’s Bravest

PARAM VIR CHAKRA HEROES AT RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN 

India’s journey from colonial rule to a proud, sovereign nation is reflected not only in its Constitution and institutions, but also in the symbols it chooses to honour. In a historic and symbolic move, portraits of British-era officers displayed at Rashtrapati Bhavan have been removed and replaced with portraits of Indian soldiers awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the nation’s highest military gallantry award.

This significant change pays tribute to the supreme courage and sacrifice of India’s bravest soldiers and marks a conscious shift from colonial remembrance to national pride.

The Param Vir Dirgha at Rashtrapati Bhavan: On 16 December (Vijay Diwas), the Param Vir Dirgha, a dedicated gallery honouring India’s highest gallantry awardees, was inaugurated at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The gallery displays the portraits of all 21 recipients of the Param Vir Chakra.

Earlier, certain corridors featured portraits of British Aides-de-Camp from the colonial period. Their replacement with portraits of Indian war heroes symbolises India’s resolve to honour its own legacy of bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism.

About the Param Vir Chakra: The Param Vir Chakra (PVC) is India’s highest military decoration, awarded for most conspicuous bravery or self-sacrifice in the presence of the enemy. Instituted in 1950, it has been awarded only 21 times, underscoring the extraordinary courage required to earn it.

A majority of these awards were conferred posthumously, reflecting the supreme sacrifice made by the soldiers in the service of the nation.

Param Vir Chakra Awardees:

Major Somnath Sharma (Posthumous) – India’s first PVC awardee; fought heroically in the 1947 Kashmir war.

Naik Jadunath Singh (Posthumous) – Repulsed repeated enemy attacks despite serious injuries.

2nd Lt Rama Raghoba Rane – Cleared enemy minefields under heavy fire to enable troop movement.

Company Havildar Major Piru Singh (Posthumous) – Destroyed enemy bunkers single-handedly before martyrdom.

Lance Naik Karam Singh – Held his post against repeated enemy attacks despite being wounded.

Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria (Posthumous) – Led a fearless charge during the UN mission in Congo.

Major Dhan Singh Thapa – Fought gallantly against overwhelming odds and endured captivity.

Subedar Joginder Singh (Posthumous) – Continued fighting the enemy despite severe injuries until his last breath.

Major Shaitan Singh (Posthumous) – Defended a high-altitude post in Ladakh, leading from the front.

Lt Col Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore (Posthumous) – Led armoured regiments and destroyed several enemy tanks.

CQMH Abdul Hamid (Posthumous) – Destroyed multiple enemy tanks during the 1965 war.

Lance Naik Albert Ekka (Posthumous) – Neutralised enemy bunkers in the 1971 war and sacrificed his life.

Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon (Posthumous) – Defended Srinagar airbase alone; the only Indian Air Force PVC recipient.

Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya – Captured enemy posts despite being seriously wounded.

2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal (Posthumous) – Destroyed enemy tanks and refused evacuation before martyrdom.

Naib Subedar Bana Singh – Led a daring assault to capture a strategic peak in the Siachen Glacier.

Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran (Posthumous) – Continued commanding his unit even after being fatally wounded.

Lt Manoj Kumar Pandey (Posthumous) – Cleared enemy bunkers during the Kargil War despite fatal injuries.

Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav – Scaled a near-vertical cliff under intense enemy fire during Kargil.

Rifleman Sanjay Kumar – Captured key enemy positions single-handedly in the Kargil conflict.

Captain Vikram Batra (Posthumous) – Led fearless assaults in Kargil and became a symbol of unmatched courage.

A Lasting Inspiration:

The Param Vir Dirgha at Rashtrapati Bhavan stands as a powerful reminder that the freedom and security of the nation rest on the sacrifices of its soldiers. By replacing colonial-era portraits with those of India’s bravest warriors, the nation honours its true heroes and ensures that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.

The World’s Largest Free Encyclopedia

WIKIPEDIA 

In the era of the internet, when information travels faster than ever, one platform has become synonymous with learning, research, and curiosity — Wikipedia. Whether it is a school project, general knowledge research, or a quick look-up about a historical figure, Wikipedia is the first destination for millions worldwide. But what exactly is Wikipedia? How did it start? Who founded it? Let’s explore the fascinating story behind this giant of information.

What Is Wikipedia?

Wikipedia is a free, online, multilingual encyclopedia that anyone can read — and almost anyone can edit. It contains millions of articles that cover virtually every topic on Earth: science, history, geography, arts, sports, culture, current events, biographies, and more.

The purpose of Wikipedia is simple yet powerful:

to make knowledge freely available to every person on the planet.

The name “Wikipedia” is formed from:

Wiki – a website where users can collaboratively edit content

Encyclopedia – a reference book covering all branches of knowledge

Thus, Wikipedia is a collaborative encyclopedia built “by the people, for the people.”

How Is Wikipedia Created?

One of Wikipedia’s most unique features is that it is written and maintained by volunteers from across the world — students, teachers, experts, hobbyists, and everyday readers who share an interest in knowledge.

These volunteers, known as Wikipedians, write new articles, update facts, correct mistakes, add references, translate content, and monitor accuracy.

Because of this collective effort, Wikipedia is constantly growing and improving.

Why Is Wikipedia Free?

Wikipedia is run by the Wikimedia Foundation, a charitable, non-profit organisation.

It accepts no advertisements and no subscription fees. The entire platform functions through donations from users who believe in open, accessible education.

This makes Wikipedia one of the most democratic and inclusive sources of knowledge ever created.

History of Wikipedia

Before Wikipedia, the founders began an online encyclopedia called Nupedia in 2000.

Nupedia articles were written by scholars and passed through a lengthy expert-review process. Although high in quality, the process was slow — only a few articles were completed.

To speed up the creation of content, the founders launched a new idea in 2001: an encyclopedia that anyone could contribute to instantly. This new platform was named Wikipedia.

Wikipedia grew so fast that it soon overtook Nupedia entirely. By 2003, Wikipedia had become one of the fastest-growing repositories of knowledge in history.

Founders of Wikipedia

Wikipedia was founded by two Americans:

1. Jimmy Wales

Internet entrepreneur

Strong advocate of free and open knowledge

Considered the "public face" of Wikipedia

Co-founded the Wikimedia Foundation

Jimmy Wales believes that information should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or financial conditions.

2. Larry Sanger

Philosopher and project developer

Co-founded Wikipedia and helped design its early guidelines

Came up with the name “Wikipedia”

Suggested using a “wiki” model so people could edit collaboratively

Together, Wales and Sanger built the foundation for a platform that would change global learning forever.

Why Wikipedia Became a Global Success

Wikipedia succeeded because it combined several revolutionary ideas:

Anyone can edit: Knowledge is not locked behind experts alone.

Free to access: Every reader is equal.

Neutral point of view: Articles must remain unbiased.

References required: All information must come from reliable sources.

Constant updating: Volunteers keep information current, often faster than news sites.

Today, Wikipedia exists in more than 300 languages and contains over 60 million articles, making it the largest encyclopedia ever created.

How Students and Teachers Can Use Wikipedia Wisely

Begin research with Wikipedia to gain a clear overview.

Use the references at the bottom for deeper study.

Explore linked topics for broader understanding.

Use images and diagrams with proper credits.

Always cross-check important facts with reliable sources.

Wikipedia is an excellent starting point for learning — not the final destination.

Conclusion: Wikipedia stands as a powerful symbol of collective learning. It proves that when people come together to share knowledge, they can build something extraordinary. What began as a small experiment in 2001 has grown into a global treasure — a living library that never closes, never stops updating, and never stops teaching.

Whether you are a student, teacher, researcher, or curious reader, Wikipedia opens a door to endless learning, completely free of cost.

Do You Know?

● Wikipedia was launched on 15 January 2001.

● It has over 60 million articles worldwide.

● The English version alone has more than 6.8 million articles.

● It is among the top 10 most visited websites in the world.

● Anyone can edit Wikipedia — but all edits are monitored.

● The content is available under Creative Commons license, meaning it can be reused with proper attribution.

● The word wiki comes from the Hawaiian word “quick.”

India’s First Line of Defence

BORDER SECURITY FORCE (BSF)

The Border Security Force (BSF) is one of India’s most important paramilitary forces. It plays a crucial role in protecting the nation’s borders and maintaining peace and security. Known as “India’s First Line of Defence,” the BSF guards international borders, prevents illegal activities, and supports the country during emergencies.

Formation and Purpose

The BSF was established on 1 December 1965, after the Indo-Pakistan war, when India realised the need for a permanent and strong border-guarding force. Before this, border protection was mainly done by state police, which was not enough during times of conflict.

The main purpose of forming the BSF was to:

● Ensure peace and security along India’s borders

● Stop illegal entry and smuggling

● Protect the nation during war and internal disturbances

● Build trust and cooperation with people living in border areas

Where the BSF Works

The BSF guards India’s borders with:

● Pakistan (over 3,300 km)

● Bangladesh (over 4,000 km — the longest border India has)

● These borders include deserts, rivers, forests, and densely populated villages. BSF personnel perform their duty in all kinds of challenging situations — from the scorching heat of Rajasthan to the marshy lands of West Bengal.

Key Duties of the BSF

1. Border Protection

The primary duty is to prevent illegal activities such as:

● Smuggling

● Human trafficking

● Illegal immigration

● Infiltration by terrorists

The BSF uses watchtowers, fencing, floodlights, CCTV cameras, drones, patrol vehicles, and dog squads to monitor the borders day and night.

2. Combating Terrorism and Infiltration

BSF plays a vital role along sensitive sectors of the border by:

● Detecting tunnels

● Catching infiltrators

● Preventing cross-border firing

● Responding quickly to security threats

3. Peacekeeping During Emergencies

The BSF also assists state police and government agencies during:

● Riots

● Natural disasters

● Elections

● VIP security

● Search and rescue operations

4. Marine and Air Wings

The BSF has:

● A Water Wing to guard riverine and coastal areas

● An Air Wing for transport, surveillance, and rescue operations

● Special Camel Contingents in Rajasthan

● Motorboat teams for difficult river borders

● Artillery and engineering units for high-risk zones

BSF’s Humanitarian Role: The BSF is not only a security force; it also works for the welfare of people living in border villages. They organise:

● Free medical camps

● Sports events

● Educational programmes

● Community support during floods or storms

● This helps build trust and ensures cooperation between citizens and the force.

Women in BSF: The BSF proudly includes women personnel who serve in combat roles, border patrol, and specialised units. Many women officers now lead battalions and take part in prestigious events such as the Republic Day Parade and Beating Retreat Ceremony.

Motto and Values: The motto of the BSF is:

“Duty Unto Death”

This reflects their courage, dedication, and willingness to protect the nation at any cost. BSF personnel are known for their discipline, integrity, and tireless service.

Conclusion: The Border Security Force is a symbol of strength, sacrifice, and commitment. By guarding India’s international borders, preventing threats, and supporting the nation during crises, the BSF plays a vital role in maintaining national security. Their bravery and dedication make them true guardians of the nation.

Celebrating Cinema, Culture and Creativity

INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL OF INDIA (IFFI)

The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals. Held every year, it brings together filmmakers, actors, writers, and cinema lovers from all over the world. IFFI is not just a festival of movies—it is a celebration of creativity, cultural exchange, and the power of storytelling.

A Glimpse into Its History: IFFI was first held in 1952, making it one of the oldest film festivals in Asia. The Government of India organised it with the aim of showcasing the best films from India and abroad, and helping Indian cinema grow on the global stage.

In 2004, IFFI found a permanent home in Goa, which has hosted the festival every year since then. The beautiful beaches, vibrant culture and festive atmosphere make Goa the perfect venue.

What Happens at IFFI?

IFFI is more than just film screenings. It is a week-long cinematic celebration that includes:

1. Film Screenings

Films from different countries are shown in various categories—feature films, documentaries, short films, children’s films, and many more.

2. Indian Panorama

This is a special section dedicated to the best of Indian cinema in various languages, showcasing the diversity of filmmaking in India.

3. Masterclasses and Workshops

Renowned filmmakers, actors and technicians conduct sessions where students and film lovers can learn about cinematography, acting, editing, music, and direction.

4. Red-Carpet Events and Award Ceremonies

Celebrities attend premieres, interact with fans, and the best films and artists are honoured with prestigious awards.

Why Is IFFI Important?

● It promotes Indian cinema globally.

● It brings world cinema to Indian audiences.

● It encourages young filmmakers and gives them a platform.

● It strengthens cultural ties between countries.

● It supports creativity, innovation, and exchange of new ideas.

Awards Presented at IFFI

Some major awards include:

● Golden Peacock Award – Best Film

● Silver Peacock Award – Best Director, Best Actor/Actress

● ICFT UNESCO Gandhi Medal – Film promoting peace and harmony

● Special Jury Award – For outstanding artistic contribution

These awards recognise excellence in both Indian and international cinema.

IFFI and India’s Growing Film Culture: India is one of the world’s biggest film-producing countries. IFFI helps showcase this talent to a global audience. It also allows Indian filmmakers to learn from international trends and experiment with new styles.

Every year, IFFI brings fresh energy, new stories, and global attention to Indian cinema. It reflects India’s belief that films can inspire, inform, entertain, and unite people.

Do You Know? (IFFI Facts)

● IFFI is often called “India’s Cannes” because of its global importance.

● The first IFFI travelled to different cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Madras (Chennai), and Kolkata before settling in Goa.

● Internationally acclaimed filmmakers such as Akira Kurosawa, Satyajit Ray, and Vittorio De Sica have been associated with IFFI.

● IFFI showcases films in over 40 languages every year.

The Real-Life Jungle Book

PENCH NATIONAL PARK 

One of the most sought-after wildlife destinations in Central India, Pench National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and legend. Located in the heart of India, it lies across the districts of Seoni, Chhindwara, and Nagpur, spanning the states of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The park covers an area of about 758 sq. km, and derives its name from the Pench River, which meanders through it, dividing the park into two halves.

A region steeped in history: The Pench region has been known for centuries for its rich flora and fauna. Its landscapes and wildlife find mention in several historical texts, including Abul Fazl’s Ain-i-Akbari (a treatise on Mughal administration under Emperor Akbar) and later accounts by British officers such as R. O. Sterndale’s Seonee, or Camp Life on the Satpura Range (1877) and Captain J. Forsyth’s The Highlands of Central India (1919).

Inspiration behind the Jungle Book: An enduring legend associated with Pench is its link to Rudyard Kipling’s classic, The Jungle Book. The British administrator William Henry Sleeman once documented a remarkable case in his 1852 pamphlet, An Account of Wolves Nurturing Children in Their Dens, describing the discovery of a wild boy raised by wolves in the Seoni forests. This account is widely believed to have inspired Kipling’s character Mowgli, the wolf boy.

Although The Jungle Book is a work of fiction, Kipling’s descriptions of the Waingunga River, the hills, and the dense forests closely resemble the real topography of Pench, suggesting that this enchanting landscape breathed life into his stories.

From Sanctuary to Tiger Reserve: Pench was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1977 and later upgraded to a national park in 1983. In 1992, it became part of Project Tiger, earning the distinction of being India’s 19th tiger reserve. Today, it stands as one of the finest habitats for the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger.

Landscape and Vegetation: The park’s terrain is undulating, with a mix of small hills, steep slopes, and sheltered valleys. Its vegetation is primarily dry deciduous forest, interspersed with patches of moist deciduous and teak forests. Dominant tree species include teak, coromandel ebony (tendu), palash, and mahua, along with dense undergrowth of shrubs, grasses, climbers, and bamboo clusters.

A haven for Wildlife and Birds: Pench National Park shelters a rich diversity of wildlife. Apart from tigers and leopards, it is home to sloth bears, chital, sambhar, nilgai, foxes, striped hyenas, wild dogs, jungle cats, and barking deer.

The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 285 species of resident and migratory birds. Notable among them are the crimson-breasted barbet, golden oriole, Indian white-backed vulture, crow pheasant, peafowl, magpie robin, racket-tailed drongo, common kingfisher, and Indian roller. The park’s rivers, open grasslands, and wetlands create ideal habitats for these vibrant species.

How to Reach: Pench National Park is well connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest major cities are Nagpur (130 km) and Jabalpur (215 km), both offering convenient access to the park.

A living legacy: Whether for its breathtaking natural beauty, its fascinating wildlife, or its connection to one of the world’s most beloved literary works, Pench National Park continues to captivate visitors from around the world. It remains not just a sanctuary for animals, but also a living testament to India’s enduring bond with nature and storytelling.

Beyond the boundary

🏏 A CAREER AS A CRICKET UMPIRE 

Cricket is more than just a game—it’s a passion shared by millions around the world. While players, coaches, and commentators often receive the spotlight, one group of professionals plays a crucial but often less celebrated role in ensuring fair play: the cricket umpires. A career as a cricket umpire can be both challenging and rewarding for those who have a deep love and understanding of the game.

👨‍⚖️ Who is a Cricket Umpire?

A cricket umpire is an official who makes decisions on the field to ensure that the game is played according to the laws and spirit of cricket. From judging whether a batsman is out to keeping track of overs, runs, and boundaries, an umpire is the authority on the ground. Their presence ensures discipline, fairness, and respect for the rules.

⚙️ Responsibilities of an Umpire

The duties of an umpire go far beyond raising a finger for an “out” decision. Some of the main responsibilities include:

● Making on-field decisions related to wickets, runs, and overs.

● Maintaining discipline and sportsmanship among players.

● Monitoring pitch and weather conditions.

● Communicating with scorers and the third umpire during matches.

● Keeping track of playing time and intervals.

🎓 Educational Qualifications and Training

While there is no fixed educational qualification required to become an umpire, having a strong understanding of cricket laws and good communication skills is essential. Many national cricket boards, such as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), conduct certification courses and examinations for aspiring umpires.

Steps generally include:

1. Enrolling in a local cricket association and gaining match experience.

2. Passing written and practical exams conducted by the state or national board.

3. Officiating in local and domestic matches to gain experience.

4. Advancing to higher levels, such as first-class, IPL, or international matches, based on performance.

🏆 Skills Required

A successful umpire must possess:

● Excellent knowledge of cricket laws and updates.

● Sharp observation and decision-making ability.

● Confidence and composure under pressure.

● Physical fitness and concentration for long hours. 

● Integrity, impartiality, and strong communication skills.

💼 Career Opportunities

A cricket umpire can start at local and club-level tournaments and gradually move up to state, national, and international levels. With experience, umpires may also become match referees, cricket administrators, or trainers for future umpires.

💰 Salary and Recognition

Umpires are paid depending on the level of matches they officiate. Local-level umpires earn modest fees, while international umpires receive lucrative match fees, allowances, and travel benefits. Prominent umpires like Simon Taufel, Aleem Dar, and Nitin Menon have earned worldwide respect for their accuracy and fairness.

💡 Did You Know?

● The first recorded cricket umpire appeared in the year 1721!

● Nitin Menon is the youngest Indian umpire to be included in the ICC Elite Panel.

● Umpires use hand signals for every decision to communicate clearly with players and scorers.

● Srinivasaraghavan Venkataraghavan — Former Indian cricketer and international umpire; awarded the Padma Shri in 2003. 

🌟 Conclusion

A career as a cricket umpire is ideal for those who are passionate about the game but prefer to contribute from behind the scenes. It requires patience, precision, and a strong sense of fairness. Though the job demands hard work and continuous learning, it offers immense satisfaction to those who love being part of the game’s heartbeat — ensuring cricket is played in the right spirit.

Incredible India

KARNI MATA TEMPLE OF RAJASTHAN 

(The temple where rats are revered)

In the heart of Deshnok, a small town near Bikaner in Rajasthan, stands one of the most unusual temples in the world — the Karni Mata Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Karni Mata, this temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of faith, compassion, and the fascinating blend of legend and devotion found in India’s spiritual traditions.

Who was Karni Mata? Karni Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga, was a 15th-century saint and mystic who was deeply respected by the people of Rajasthan. She is said to have performed many miracles and helped people selflessly. The rulers of Bikaner and Jodhpur considered her their family deity and sought her blessings before any important decision or battle.

The legend behind the temple: According to legend, one day Karni Mata’s stepson, Laxman, drowned while trying to drink water from a pond. The goddess, deeply saddened, requested Yama, the god of death, to restore his life. Yama refused.

Then, Karni Mata declared with her divine powers that no member of her family would ever go to Yama’s world again. Instead, they would be reborn as rats and continue to serve her faithfully.

Since then, it is believed that the thousands of rats living in the temple are the reincarnated souls of her devotees.

The Holy Rats: The temple is home to over 25,000 rats, known as “Kabbas.” These rats are treated with great respect and devotion. Devotees feed them grains, milk, and sweets, and walk carefully so as not to harm them.

Spotting a white rat among the black ones is considered extremely auspicious, as they are believed to represent Karni Mata herself or her sons.

Architecture and significance: The temple, built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner in the early 20th century, is a beautiful example of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Its marble floors, silver gates, and intricate carvings reflect both artistic beauty and spiritual grandeur.

Every year, thousands of devotees and tourists visit this temple — not out of fear or curiosity, but out of deep reverence and wonder at this living example of harmony between humans and animals.

A living symbol of faith: The Karni Mata Temple reminds us that faith and compassion can exist in the most unexpected forms. It shows that every life, no matter how small, carries divine energy.

🌟 Did You Know?

● The temple houses more than 25,000 rats, all well-fed and protected.

● If a rat accidentally dies, it must be replaced with one made of solid silver!

● Devotees believe that eating food nibbled by the rats brings good fortune.

● The white rats, very few in number, are considered sacred messengers of the Goddess.

● The temple is especially crowded during Navratri, when special prayers and fairs are held.

Moral / Message: The Karni Mata Temple stands as a reminder that true devotion lies in respect for all forms of life — for in the eyes of the divine, every creature is sacred.