A LIFE TIME EXPERIENCE

“The journey of thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Attending the ISA briefing on 28 January 2015 paved the way for learning. I realized the magnanimous challenge which waited at the door step. With nerves of steel and lion’s heart, we prepared the action plan. I was fortunate that British Council approved the action plan at one go.

Collaborative and In -house activities with partner schools from countries like United Kingdom, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka provided an invaluable learning opportunity. Having the internet became the window of the world, bringing our students globally closer.

The plethora of activities provided a platform to the students and teachers to unleash their potential. A remarkable improvement has been witnessed in the spirit of participation of students in various activities.

I got the opportunity to celebrate International Days through special assemblies and observed how the little ones metamorphosed into active, law abiding citizens and take leadership roles within the schools and wider community.

My interaction with St. Solihull School, United Kingdom was an eye opener and this culminated in our school incorporating some great ideas from them like innovative styles of teaching.

Personally, I feel blessed to avail these opportunity through the ISA to interact and above all make friends globally. 

 

Sonjuhi Khare

(BRIITISH COUNCIL, ISA COORDINATOR)

LETS GO OFFLINE

How often does it happen that sailing through the tides of time you come across a long lost friend of yours. An instance of good luck but quite dramatic. Who knew a program composed by a student would make this dramatic instance realistic. If new system for marking history was to be evolved, it would have been BEFORE FACEBOOK and AFTER FACEBOOK, as it was advent of the Facebook that all other commonly used social networking sites swarmed the internet.

From business expansions to simply conversing online, social networking sites provide a great platform to integrate various communities under a single umbrella, boast of knowing more people and counter loneliness. These sites also seem to be a good source of information. To be precise latest updates replacing the newspapers. However, the more we indulge on these sites; more we drift apart from our families, friends, work and social life. As far as information is concerned, the sources are not reliable and the authenticity of the information is doubtful. The users are not secure, especially teenagers who fall prey to the sexual vultures online.

The authenticity of a profile is equally doubtful. An average student spends 101.4 minutes online a day, though their major cry is that they don’t get enough time to study. If the same time is used productively, achieving desired goals will not be difficult. A human is not meant for multitasking but students bend this simple fact like Beckham. While studying, they have book in one hand and a mobile phone in another. Their divided attention is the real reason for their poor performance. The concentration of a student is directly proportional to the time delay in response to a notification. On the emotional front, human relationships are the worst sufferers.

Families are drifting apart, communication gap between the family members is widening. People are turning deaf and mute towards other people’s problem. What’s the use of such a virtual circle that is parting us from our soul mates? Now a days, quality family time has been drastically reduced and all thanks to the pseudo world. When we are logged in the virtual world, we are logged out of the festivities of life. They are reduced to the degree of a post and few pictures. The vibes and the celebrations are long gone affair. Even on festivals it is hard to find anyone offline. It is high time for us to mend our ways and to come out of the virtual world to enjoy what the real world has to offer. The need of the hour is to follow the Mantra that “OFFLINE IS THE NEW LUXURY” and splurge and bask in its glory.

SAUMYA YADAV CLASS- XII SCIENCE

Healthy Food

We all know that eating right can help you maintain a healthy weight and avoid certain health problems.. Studies have linked eating a typical Western diet—filled with processed meats, packaged meals, takeout food, and sugary snacks—with higher rates of depression, stress, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Eating an unhealthy diet may even play a role in the development of mental health disorders such as ADHD, Alzheimer’s disease, and schizophrenia.

Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, cooking meals at home, and reducing your intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates, on the other hand, may help to improve mood and lower your risk for mental health problems. Eating well can even help to manage and regain control of your life.While some specific foods or nutrients have been shown to have a beneficial effect on mood, it’s your overall dietary pattern that is most important. That means switching to a healthy diet doesn’t have to be an all or nothing proposition. You don’t have to be perfect and you don’t have to completely eliminate foods you enjoy to have a healthy diet and make a difference to the way you think and feel.Healthy eating is not about strict dietary limitations, staying unrealistically thin, or depriving yourself of the foods you love. Rather, it’s about feeling great, having more energy, improving your outlook, and stabilizing your mood. If you feel overwhelmed by all the conflicting nutrition and diet advice out there, you’re not alone. It seems that for every expert who tells you a certain food is good for you, you’ll find another saying exactly the opposite. But by using these simple tips, you can cut through the confusion and learn how to create a tasty, varied, and healthy diet that is as good for your mind as it is for your body.To set yourself up for success, think about planning a healthy diet as a number of small, manageable steps—like adding a salad to your diet once a day—rather than one big drastic change. As your small changes become habit, you can continue to add more healthy choices.Some small tips:-

1. Prepare more of your own meals.
2. Make the right changes.
3. Eat healthier snacks. 
4. Read the labels.
5. Focus on how you feel after eating
6. Drink plenty of water.
7. Try not to think of certain foods as “off-limits.”
8. Think smaller portions.
9. Take your time
10. Eat with others whenever possible.
11. Eat breakfast and eat small portions throughout the day.
12. Avoid eating at night.
13. Avoid sugary drinks.
14. Slowly reduce the sugar in your diet

Flora and Fauna - Our Priceless Commodity Is a Activity

The project talks about the unnoticed, useful flora and fauna which are part and parcel of life in Srilanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan & India.

The activity was planned keeping the neighbouring countries in mind and the fact that they are equally rich in flora and fauna. It would not only support academics with real world hands on experience but children would also learn to analyze the figurative use of flora and fauna.

The project stressed on the fact that in our fast paced, media driven world, unnoticed useful flora and fauna are part and parcel of our life. Under the able guidance of the Project Head, Ms Divya Chowdhary and teacher, Ms Anandita, the students ushered an entirely new concept of learning the unmarked species in the month of May, 2015.

Students of class IX were excited to cover the neighbouring countries like Srilanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal .The countries due to tropical temperate forest are the storehouses of flora and fauna. The students were divided in groups .They underwent Rigorous Research and collected 20 names and pictures of useful plants and animals. They were delighted to find that the village communities of associated countries were using them. The entire information was segregated and arranged in Scrap Books.

In order to connect academics with practical world, an Interactive Survey of flora and fauna was done by school students. The data was collected and inference was drawn which encouraged children to take a clear glimpse of the colourful species. The students had a gala time in the sprawling villages and wrote their observation.

An Inter Class Poster Making competition was organised in which children selected one useful plant or animal and made beautiful, message invoking posters .It was a delightful sight to see so many young artists making posters, choosing the species from different countries under one roof which professed that it’s the small world after all event turned out to be a great accomplishment .The week culminated with the Display of Posters that showcased the work of youngsters. Is a Coordinator, Ms Sonjuhi praised the students and the teachers for their endeavours for making British Council activity a great success.

FESTIVALS AND US

Festivals are the times when people forget about their burdens and enjoy freely. They decorate their houses, buy new clothes, enjoy delicious savories and above all reunite with loved ones. Festivals are the times when contacts are renewed and refreshed. People get together and share their thoughts and cover up all that could not be discussed for a while. People meet; go to each others’ homes, exchange sweets and good wishes. However, the trend of festivals is changing now a days. It is seen in recent times a lot of money is drained in the name of celebration. There is a lot of environmental pollution is festivals like Deepawali and Holi. The enjoyment is somehow being lost.

India is a land of festivals. All through the year several festivals are celebrated like Dusshera, Deepawali, Christmas, Id-ul-Fitr, Christmas, Holi to name a few. In fact festivals have been a part of the Indian society since a very long time. In India every form of worship and every change in the season there is a festival to commemorate the same. And along with festivals come opportunities to bond, enjoy and celebrate. When we talk of the Indian culture all discussions are incomplete without festivals. However we must celebrate festivals keeping in mind the environment and also those people who are not as fortunate as us to enjoy like us. Standing at the beginning of the festive season I wish we all prosper and make the upcoming days fun filled taking everyone into consideration.    

Abhay Jain

Student, Sr 3

Meenakshi World School

Gurgaon

SPEED AND ACCURACY AWARDED AT MEENAKSHI WORLD SCHOOL

On 17^th October 2015 Meenakshi World School, Sector 10 A, organized an Inter School Skating Competition in the school premises. The competition was held in the Speed Skating Category (In Line Skating and Quads Skating) for students of 4 years to 12 years and the participants were judged on the basis of their performances at the rink. In recent times skating has emerged as a popular sport and a lot of students are taking interest in it. This sport not only imparts physical strength but also helps in increasing concentration and develops a passion for facing challenges. The competition witnessed the participation of 21 schools alongside the host school. The participating schools were Lions Public School, Summer Fields School, Lt. Atul Katraria Memorial School, The Maurya School, Gyan Devi Middle School, Rotary Public School, Ryan International School, Meenakshi Public School, Salwan Public School, Lord Jesus Public School, CCA School, Euro International School (Sec 10 & 45), S.D. Memorial School, Lotus Valley International School, Scottish High International School, Shalom Hills International School, Basant Valley Public School, Blue Bells Preparatory School, Blue Bells Public School and Blue Bells Model School. Mr. Anil Hada, Vice Chairperson of Meenakshi Group of Schools flagged off the first race. The competition was held in two categories- first category was Quads for girls and boys in the categories of 300m, 400m, 500m and 700m for the age groups 4yrs to 6 yrs, 6yrs to 8yrs, 8yrs to 10 yrs and 10 yrs to 12 yrs; the second category was In Line Skating in the same categories as that of Quads. Participants from Shalom Hills School and Lord Krishna International School won accolades by winning in six categories each. Students of the host school also performed well and won medals in three categories.

All the participants displayed brilliant skills and everyone was left astounded by their technical skills. Meenakshi World School keeps organizing such competitions in an attempt to help recognize the latent talents of the students and give them a platform for displaying their skills.     

PERSONALITY OF A CHILD

We come across lot of people in our lives. Each person is unique in himself/herself. People are born with certain traits which they have inherited from their parents and in turn which they have inherited from their ancestors. There is an endless list of these traits. When a child is born, sometimes he is a good combination of certain traits and at the same time there are weird combinations as well. Apart from this when a child is born he is carrying that baggage of combination of certain inherited traits. In addition to that he also carries a brain which is completely like a blank sheet of paper. His life starts when he is still in the womb and he starts to write his experiences. If the mother goes through a difficult time and the way she thinks it does influence the baby. When a baby is born he learns lot of things each experience forms certain impressions. Sometimes he unlearns on his own and sometimes his near and dear ones make him unlearn the things. Only those people unlearn, who introspect, retrospect and some people learn by experience from hit and trial method.

Society, Company and family at home play a very vital role in the personality of a person. So finally a person is an amalgamation of his inherited traits, life experiences and influence of his near and dear ones. A man is combination and permutation of these large numbers of traits and experiences that is why no two individuals are exactly the same. Each one is different from the other. Every day we are changing and we are not the same as we were a week back. Certain dos and don’ts have been taught by our dear ones which we follow throughout our lives. That stops/ prevents us from doing certain things; for instance if the parents’ teach and instill in a child to respect the elders he/she will continue to do so no matter what happens. A person might have had a bad experience with one or two older people but he/she will not stop respecting the elders.  He might be angry but his way of conveying the things will be quite subtle.

Another example is if a person is arrogant and looks down upon everybody it is because he/she was taught to be like this and also it might be that person is very insecure. People generally do not work on their insecurity. If they do so, it will be good for them and for people around them. It is the duty of parents and teachers in school to take keen interest in the child’s development, so that can become a responsible citizen of the society and is able to lead a very happy and free life. I am reminded of a quote which is as follows:

“Educate your children to self- control;, to the habit of holding passion and prejudice and evil tendencies subject to an upright and reasoning will, and you have done much to abolish misery from their future and crimes from society.” (Benjamin Franklin)

Ms. Neena Singh

Meenakshi World School

Gurgaon

More important pursuit in life: meaning or happiness?

People who find a meaningful purpose to their suffering are far more resilient than those who fail to do so.

“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing, the last of the human freedoms — to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.

The uniqueness and singleness which distinguishes each individual and gives a meaning to his existence has a bearing on creative work as much as it does on human love. When the impossibility of replacing a person is realized, it allows the responsibility which a man has for his existence and its continuance to appear in all its magnitude. A man who becomes conscious of the responsibility he bears toward a human being who affectionately waits for him, or to an unfinished work, will never be able to throw away his life. He knows the ‘why’ for his existence, and will be able to bear almost any ‘how.

In short, happy people derive much satisfaction from receiving, while those that find meaning find intrinsic reward from giving. Serving others and finding meaning in life are uniquely human pursuits which do not necessarily or naturally lead to happiness. Pursuit of individual comfort is not a uniquely human endeavor; animals are capable of pursuing happiness when satisfying their natural drives. Most importantly, according to researchers, is the fact that meaning transcends the present moment. Happiness is a simple, passing emotion that is felt and experienced merely momentarily, whereas meaning transcends emotion and time. Meaning is a chain that connects past, present and future together. A 2011 study confirmed that experiencing negative events decreases one’s happiness but can potentially increase one’s ability to find meaning in life. Further studies have shown that spending large amounts of time contemplating the past or future leads to a relatively meaningful but unhappy life.

Living and thinking solely in the present might make a person happier, but it will not contribute to a greater purpose. Serving others takes many forms. The most obvious and highly valued appear to be those which serve the homeless, battle injustice, or raise up young children. 

Regards:

Ekta Arora

SERVICE TO MANKIND

As students do we just have to be with our books and only gain theoretical knowledge without even being concerned for putting that knowledge to any practical use? Is that knowledge and efficiency fruitful for us or for others? Does our responsibility end with just reading and shutting the books? The answer to all these questions is a big NO. Being knowledgeable is not the only requirement; we must be aware of everything that is happening around us. Knowledge and wisdom increase if they are spread around. One of the ways for us (students) to use our knowledge precariously is to get involved in voluntary work.

The books that we study are written by world observers. That is the reason they satisfy our curiosity and help us in thinking rationally. We can, therefore, truly utilize the knowledge gained from the books into practical usability. A very good example is to educate others about health and hygiene. We know that one of the greatest problems the world is facing today is diseases caused due to lack of hygiene and cleanliness. Knowing the science behind bio degradable and non- bio degradable waste we can educate people about these things. This will not only be a practical application of theories but also a work that would prove beneficial for the society. After all who doesn’t dream of a disease free society? There are many other areas where students can actually raise awareness and make a difference. Taking up teaching classes of under priviledged children is yet another example. By teaching their own skills will be brushed and future leaders of the country shall be born.

This life is supposedly very precious and if we can use our brains, energy and our lives in doing good for the society that would be the best return gift to Nature who has given us this life and a wise brain to think and understand. As Mother Teresa said:

“The Simple Path
Silence is Prayer
Prayer is Faith
Faith is Love
Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”

BY:

Rahul Shyokand

Student, Grade SR 6

Meenakshi World School

Gurgaon

CHANGING EQUATIONS OF TEACHERS AND STUDENTS

The relationship between a teacher and a student is very special but complex too. In the twenty first century, education is as imperative as food, shelter and clothes. The urge to succeed and move ahead compels everyone to join a rat race that is governed by competition and aspirations. This race begins at childhood itself when parents strive to get their child admitted to the best school as per their ability. This is precisely where the teacher and student get introduced for the first time and a bond is made which binds them together for the entire lifetime. Even though several teachers come in the journey of the student but the intrinsic quality of the relationship remain the same. Respect, love, devotion and admiration keep this relationship alive for lifetimes.

However, this equation is somewhat changing with the changing times. With the introduction of e-learning the distance between the teacher and student has increased. The students do not feel the necessity of a teacher when he/she can get all information from the internet. Moreover the policies of the government as regards education has added to the woes of the teachers who feel that they have no more say in the student’s life- a mere act of disciplining a child is now termed as torture, homework has become the synonym of burden and so on. On the other hand the fact that the selfless love and affection of teachers has decreased is also true. Teachers are now more concerned about the end of the month benefit that they receive in this profession. It is thus not an exaggeration when it is said that the world in today’s time is based on the calculations of monetary benefits. As teachers it is our responsibility that we try and change the scenario otherwise that day is not far when the divine relation of the student and teacher shall be a distant thing of the past and we shall have nothing but memories to lament on.     

PAYAL DAN

PGT ENGLISH

MEENAKSHI WORLD SCHOOL

GURGAON

SCHOOL DAYS: HAPPIEST DAYS OF LIFE...

School is a place where you grow, where you start understanding the world, from where you begin your mistakes and start improving upon them and above all it is place where you have unadulterated fun. Yes fun… where you enjoy your life with your friends and teachers. School is that easy part of your life where you have no worries. That is why we always long to go back to the school days even when we are successful and content in our lives.

There are some people who hated or who hate going to school. I think that may be their teachers were/are not that supportive or an even greater reason would be they did/do not have good friends. There are also some people who love to stay inside their shells and do not like to socialize. Some people also like colleges more than schools because schools have several restrictions that colleges do not have. But colleges might give you freedom but it can also make you self centered. People start misusing the freedom and start doing big mistakes. These mistakes can sometimes be so big that they might have to pay it with their lives. That is why rules are very important and schools are the best places that teach you stay disciplines, follow rules and also have self control.

Schools are the best places that we can ever go to. Friends are made who stay on for the entire life. Teachers teach not only the subjects but also the values that help in building the strong foundation of virtuous and successful life. It is that heaven where one can relax and remain tension free. That’s why it has been rightly said that:

No matter how much you think you hate school, you will always miss it when you leave.

About the Author:

The Author is GARGI SINSIAWAR, STUDENT, GRADE: X, MEENAKSHI WORLD SCHOOL

www.meenakshiworldschool.com

THE IMPORTANCE OF ART...

Pablo Picasso once said “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off your souls”. In the present world this statement holds true to every word. As we grow up different types of tensions engross us and we end up in states of frustrations and depressions. A state of peace and an outlet to let off emotions is then required. I feel that art is the savior that can not only help in unleashing those emotions but also spend time in an effective and fruitful manner.

Art is now considered as the first language after the evolution of human beings on earth. It is now proven that pictorial representations were the only modes of communication in the beginning. The discovery of several caves paintings around the world is a proof for the same. In a time when language creates so many problems isn’t art still a better way to communicate? For young students and even for adults art can work as that medium that can help them in making this world a better place for themselves as well as others. Diving deep into the world of crayons, paints and also shaping up new dreams through mundane things like paper and clay art gives you that outlet through which you can reach ultimate destinations of peace and solitude. It is probably for this reason that even psychologists suggest this way to utilize time and make the mind free of worries. Schools and colleges have seriously introduced this part as a vital part of the curriculum and career opportunities in this field are galore. It can therefore be easily surmised that art is that passion that can create wonders for life from all perspectives.Art nourishes the soul and nurtures the mind…   

About the Author:

The Author is Palash Mondal, Fine Arts Educator, Meenakshi World School

www.meenakshiworldschool.com

EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY...

In the global world of 21^st century e books have replaced text books and notepads have replaced notebooks. E learning has changed the entire education system. When I was a student my teachers asked me to write notes on whatever was taught and at the same time I had to concentrate on what the teacher was speaking. However, the scene is entirely different now. With the help of technology we are connected to classrooms worldwide and thereby connect to what the other side of the world is doing. Not only that but it has become a common norm these days to exchange thoughts thereby making the world smaller and smaller with each passing day.

A very important benefit of technology in education is the use of audio-visual aids. Through the use of these students can come out of the mundane world of the books and enter into the digitized world where nothing is incomprehensible or unreachable. The student can learn according to his/her own pace and if he/she gets stuck anywhere the option of replaying is always there.

However, every coin has two sides. Technology has its set of disadvantages too if abused or put into use for unfair means. It can make a person lazy and inactive. The students are the ones who can fall prey to these adverse affects. It is therefore very essential to monitor and keep a check. Even though e books and notepads and think pads have made the work easier there still cannot be any competition with the tradition ways of studying that are reading and writing. In my opinion technology should be used for making the work easier. We should never become too dependent on it as that would be harmful.  

About the Author:

The Author is Mr. Rajesh Sahni, PGT Physics, Meenakshi World School

www.meenakshiworldschool.com

THE ART OF CONCENTRATION...

Concentration is defined as your ability to direct your thinking. The art or practice of concentration, no matter if studying biology or playing pool, is to focus on the task at hand and eliminate distraction. We all have the ability to concentrate but there are times when concentration leaves us. Think of times when you were “lost” in something you enjoy: a sport, music, a good game or your favorite movie- that can be defined precisely as concentration as these were the times you were totally into the activity. But there are times when your mind wanders from one thing to another. These are the times when:

- Your worries distract you

- Outside distractions take you away even before you know it

- The material is boring, difficult and/or not interesting

In all the above mentioned moments the mind is disturbed and the guilt of not doing the right work at the right time torments you. While the problem of distraction is harmful for everyone, the worst sufferers are the students for whom it is of utmost importance to concentrate and study diligently. These tips might help in dealing with this problem:

Before engaging in your studies try to center yourself with silence; clearing your mind of distractions that may disrupt your productivity.

- Make a dedicated place only for studying. Eg. Chair, table etc.

- Stick to routine and make an efficient study schedule

- Focus

- Incentives as food treat, walk, calling your friends etc. help to de-stress and thereby increases concentration in the later works that you might do

- Change topics

- Take regular, scheduled breaks that fit you

- Give yourself rewards after fulfilling stipulated tasks

By all these practices you can be assured to notice changes. These practices will benefit not only students but also all those who want to do a work sincerely and effectively. Whenever your thoughts start wandering scold yourself and say strictly “Be here now”. As a popular saying goes: “Success is like a camera. Only focus on what is most important. Ignore trivial details. Concentrate on your main goal image for success. Develop your pictures. If they don't turn out, don't give up. Take more shots at it. Always be persistent. Focus on making success clearly happen.”

About the Author:

The Author is Mr. Pankaj Sharma, P.G.T. Chemistry, Meenakshi World School

www.meenakshiworldschool.com

SOCIAL NETWORKING...

Every coin has two faces- heads and tails. Everything has its good and bad effects. It is up to us how to use or misuse anything that is given to us.

Social networking is also one of the things which if put into constructive use can be very good. People are in touch with each other by just a click of the mouse. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and personal blogs are a few means through which people exchange their daily views and update themselves about what is happening in the world. Moreover it is certain that if something is happening in some part of the United States it is bound to affect people living in India as well. Hence it becomes utmost important to be informed.

It is also very fruitful to promote any social cause or to make people aware of any social evil in the society. Recently, a girl was molested and the youth were out on streets to demand justice for her and within few hours the entire world became one in the demand for justice for the victim.

On the other hand it also has its baggage of vices. People misuse it to exploit the youth, mislead people and cheat financially through social networking sites to ask for bogus donations. It also enhances people from not meeting in person. Virtual exchange of welfare and information prevents the personal human touch. On my opinion people are not concerned to spend quality time with their near and dear ones.

In the end, I would like to say that a perfect balance of both the proper use of social networking must be maintained in one’s life in order to have a good healthy life.    

About the Author:

The Author is Dr. Jagriti Gautam, PGT Science, Meenakshi World School

www.meenakshiworldschool.com

THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF STUDY AND SELF LEARNING...

A common proverb says that “Self help is the best help”. In today’s competitive world this proverb holds very true. In the fast paced world, everyone is striving to succeed and achieve the best and people are ready to devote hard work and all their sincerity towards the goal that they have set for themselves. But sometimes it is noted that howsoever they have worked behind the goal they fail to achieve the desired results. Have we ever tried to ponder over the reasons behind this? Some probably know and that is why some succeed more than the others. The fact that makes them succeed more than others is their urge to study more and know more. They leave no stones unturned to open all vistas for knowing and gaining knowledge. This is self study and self learning.

Undoubtedly teachers and mentors are very essential in the in the difficult path of attaining wisdom but only that person succeeds who can apply the acquired wisdom on his/her own. And that can be possible only when that person would strive to learn things on his/her own. In the modern world of science and technology self learning has become even easier with technological means and methodologies. E books, online journals, chat sessions, online assessments and so on can be accessed anytime for gaining perfection in the area one is studying or researching on. The social networking sites too are very good means of sharing and acquiring knowledge.

If one wants to succeed there can be no substitute for self study and self learning. It not only helps in gaining knowledge and broaden the horizons of wisdom it is one of the best ways in which a person can fruitfully devote his/her time too. As was once pointed by the great scientist Albert Einstein:

“Never regard study as duty but as the enviable opportunity to learn to know the liberating influence of beauty in the realm of the spirit for your own personal joy and to the profit of the community to which your later work belongs”       

About the Author: The Author is Ms. Payal Dan, PGT English, Meenakshi World School

www.meenakshiworldschool.com

CHILD LABOUR AND ITS HIDDEN TRUTHS...

Child labour is a slur on the society which is still continuing in most of the countries, especially the developing ones. Being an Indian when I think of this issue the first question that arises is what constitutes child labour?

Earlier the weaker sections of the society used to indulge their children into labour activities to make the two ends meet at their homes.  More kids meant more working hands and that meant more income. But poverty remains the core truth and here comes the very essential question: Is it necessary to have so many kids if you can’t take care of them or fulfill their basic needs? Their point of view, however, is quiet clear when they say more the number of children, more comfortable will be their lives.

Then it also forces me to think about those children who are participating in the numerous talent shoes of our country or movies or television serials. According to me this too falls under child labour. A child who should go to school, play with peers and should spend his/ her life tension free gets up early in the morning, rehearses the dialogues and portray different characters. The conditions at these places are not at all favourable for the growth of a child. But I do not see anyone raising a voice against this. Parents too should understand that at such early days of life what a child needs is care and nurture and not limelight.

Therefore I can say that it is not only the weaker sections that are at fault, we, the so called educated people are also not responsible behind this flourishing trade of child labour. My heart aches every time I see small child carrying loads of bricks on his shoulders or a small child stands in front of the camera and talks things that are beyond his/her age.

Through this column I want to raise awareness to take a stand against all forms of child labour and make this world beautiful for them too.    

About the Author:

The Author is Ms. Meenakshi, Class Educator (JR 6), Meenakshi World School

www.meenakshiworldschool.com 

ADDICTION IN TODAY’S SCENARIO...

What is addiction? What are we getting addicted of? Which sections of the society are getting addicted? Is addiction only associated with drugs? When we look around today we see people running throughout the day in the pursuit to make several ends meet. In this hassle what is left behind is peace of mind. The ones who are most affected are the children. They do not fall in any categories. They can’t associate themselves to the little ones who are absolutely carefree and also the older ones who have lots of worries constantly plaguing them. That is the reason they look for different options to keep themselves indulged and involved. Technology is the factor that is alluring them the most.

While the problem seems to be acute when we talk about the young and unripe ones, nevertheless in today’s world the stark reality is everyone irrespective of age, caste, religion or sex is absolutely in control of technology and gadgets. 

The worst form of addiction in today’s time is obviously the addiction to the social media; people do not give their minds or bodies any rest while they share their entire life in different social networking sites. The definitions of privacy also have, therefore, changed. It does not depend anymore on social, economic or educational status of a person. Everyone everywhere is using technology. We are getting addicted to status, meaningless standards and false identities.

All these ideas make me feel very confused that while we are getting so much addicted to everything material or immaterial how do we find a sense of belonging in a particular space? I think that we are left with no answers to this question as we do not really belong to anywhere particular these days. We belong to everywhere but still are devoid of emotions of togetherness and love.

Where are we heading towards? Will the world be ever able to come out of the tangles of addiction? Through this column I appeal to all to ponder on the issue and look around and try to find out those faces and those emotions that have somewhere lost in the virtual realities of the twenty-first century.

About the Author:

The Author is Ms. Nidhi Bishnoi, TGT Social Science, Meenakshi World School

www.meenakshiworldschool.com

WHY TO BE RICH?

I’ll be 35 in a few months. It is a confusing age. But I don’t want to give up my childhood.  As I look back at the last decade, I find a lot of satisfaction. God has kept me special and especially lucky.

What is a good measure of ‘making money? I spent a lot of time looking at people who are elder & richer than me. As I tried to find out; a lot of answers emerged. I could conclude a couple of things:-

a) If I work very hard from now on I can make a very big mark on the world and that should simultaneously create a lot of money.

b) However, if I work less hard and use the saved energy for something else, then that something else can also get created well.

I took a decision finally. Thought to SHARE with you through this blog.

Why I do not want to become RICH?

1) ‘Bade Bade jo disay log, unko vyapey chinta rog’. (Those who are rich they are always in tension to lose it)Lines quoted by Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. I found that most of people who are older than me are living in a state of anxiety. A chronic anxiety fatigue is enveloping them and it just doesn’t leave them. Rather it becomes stronger and firmer with every passing year. ‘Majority of the issues in the lives my elders & contemporaries are either because of ‘wealth creation worries’ or out of ‘worries about increasing that wealth which already got created’.

2) ‘Kitni jyaada mushkil se tu kamata hai daulat ae insaan ..

Thodi si mehnat kar, Khuda jannat bech raha hai’ …

 ‘What is the point of creating ‘more material properties’ when one is already not likely to CONSUME the ones / savor the ones which he already owns / has’.  I would  want to cherish slowly ‘what I already have’ than trying to spend my vital energy into creating something which I might not end up using also. The energy that you put in to create that extra money could be used to ‘stay fit’ and ‘stay young’. There are a lot of things that money just cannot buy — trust me!

 3) Spiderman — my childhood role model said it right- ‘With great power comes great responsibility’. May be the reason- why majority of our politicians and corporate honchos become more hungry, ruthless and wanton when money associates with them. I do not want to be filthily rich because I am scared of my ‘head going wrong’ when that happens.

4) I might ignore relationships in my life in the race to become rich. My daughter is 8 already and soon she will be ready to leave home for her life and career. My mom is 61 and needs me.

What is the point of being on the dining table with them while talking on mobile phone along? What is the point of eating that food; if you do not enjoy it 100%. I see so many people not eating their food; but eating the emotions / thoughts that are happening along. Food is merely a mechanical act to get them energy to create more money. Over pursuit of money is leading to a multitude of life style diseases e.g. Spondylitis, Back pain, Hypertension, Diabetes and more. You go to any ward in any hospital and every field of medicine’s patient wards will be running full.

I thank God for keeping me fully fit till now. I do not want that I exert an extra much to create wealth which impacts my health adversely. While saving my energy from the wealth race; I can use the same energy to genuinely help people who need me.

One Life! & I want to love it and live it 100%.

About the Author:
The Author is Ms. Manju Chillar, PRT Educator, Meenakshi World School
www.meenakshiworldschool.com

GLOBAL WARMING AND ITS EFFECTS...

Global warming is related to the more general phenomenon of climate change, which refers to changes in the totality of attributes that define climate. In addition to changes in air temperature, climate change involves changes to precipitate patterns, winds, ocean currents, and other measures of Earth’s climate. Normally, climate change can be viewed as the combination of various natural forces occurring over diverse timescales. Since the advent of human civilization, climate change has involved an “anthropogenic,” or exclusively human-caused, element, and this anthropogenic element has become more important in the industrial period of the past two centuries. The term global warming is used specifically to refer to any warming of near-surface air during the past two centuries that can be traced to anthropogenic causes.

Human activities have contributed to a number of the observed changes in climate. This contribution has principally been through the burning of fossil fuels, which has led to an increase in the concentration of GHGs in the atmosphere. Another human influence on the climate are carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide emissions, which are a precursor to the formation of sulfate aerosols in the atmosphere.

The atmosphere allows most of the visible light from the Sun to pass through and reach the Earth’s surface. As the Earth’s surface is heated by sunlight, it radiates part of this energy back toward space as infrared radiation. This radiation, unlike visible light, tends to be absorbed by the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, raising its temperature. The heated atmosphere in turn radiates infrared radiation back toward the Earth’s surface.

The effects of global warming are the environmental and social changes caused (directly or indirectly) by human emissions of greenhouse gases. There is a scientific consensus that climate change is occurring, and that human activities are the primary driver. Many impacts of climate change have already been observed, including glacier retreat, changes in the timing of seasonal events (e.g., earlier flowering of plants), and changes in agricultural productivity. Greenhouse gases include Chlorofluocarbon (CFC),Carbon-dioxide, Nitrogen oxides and Methane.

Carbon dioxide is used as a refrigerant, in fire extinguishers, for inflating life rafts and life jackets, blasting coal, foaming rubber and plastics, promoting the growth of plants in greenhouses, immobilizing animals before slaughter, and in carbonated beverages.

Prolonged exposure of Carbon dioxide to Humans for more than 5 percent concentration can cause unconsciousness and death.

CFC is responsible for making a hole in the ozone layer in the stratosphere.

Methane is one of the hydrocarbon and is used as fuel for various purposes.

Nitrogen oxides are used for preservation of blood samples.

Scientific understanding of the cause of global warming has been increasing. In its fourth assessment (AR4 2007) the Intergovernmental  Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reported that scientists were more than 90% certain that most of global warming was being caused by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases produced by human activities(anthropogenic). In 2010 that finding was recognized by the national science academies of all major industrialized nations.

Developed countries have developed greenhouse technology to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.and even the developing countries like India and China are in the process to adopt this technology.

Through this article I would like to request all the readers to do their part of bit to reduce the effects of global warming.

About the Author:

The Author is Ms. Preeti Bhardwaj, Meenakshi World School

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