The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged more countries to make a global political commitment so that any emerging vaccine for COVID-19 will be shared equitably. Speaking at a press conference yesterday, WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, vaccines for the novel coronavirus should be made available as a global public good, to ensure everyone had fair access to any life-saving products that are developed.
 
Mr Tedros was speaking after concerns being raised that some countries including the United States could hoard any vaccines or drugs they develop to combat Covid-19, with poorer countries not getting access to the treatments they need. The WHO director-general said, many leaders around the globe have promoted the idea of making any vaccine a global public good, but that should continue to be promoted.
 
He added that more leaders should join the efforts, and they need to have a truly global political commitment and global consensus before they even have the product. The WHO’s top emergency expert Mike Ryan said, the disease was highly active in Central and South America. He said, the current situation in Brazil, was of increasing concern especially in cities.
 
The Latin American country has now one of the global hot-spots for the virus. Mr Ryan said, Brazil’s health system was still coping, although some intensive care units were at a critical stage and under heavy pressure with more than 90 percent bed occupancy rates

The National capital Delhi witnessed a minimum temperature of 32 and maximum is expected to be around 42 degrees Celsius. The sky will be partly cloudy with possibility of development of thunder lightning. Mumbai will witness generally cloudy sky with heavy rain. The minimum and maximum temperature will hover between 27 and 33 degrees Celsius.
 
In the south, Chennai will see a generally cloudy sky with light rain. The temperature will be between 26 and 36 degrees Celsius. Kolkata will witness generally cloudy sky with a few spells of rain or thundershowers. The minimum temperature in the metropolis was 26 degrees while maximum will be around 30 degrees Celsius.
 
On to the North, in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the minimum temperature was 25 degrees Celsius in Jammu while maximum will be around 37 degrees Celsius. The city will observe partly cloudy sky with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers.  In Srinagar, the temperature will be between 12 and 29 degrees Celsius. The city will face partly cloudy sky with the possibility of rain or thunderstorm or dust storm.
 
In Gilgit, the temperature will hover between 16 and 35 degrees Celsius with the sky becoming partly cloudy with possibility of rain or thunderstorm or dust storm. In Muzzafarabad, the sky will be partly cloudy with the possibility of rain or thunderstorm or duststorm. The city witnessed minimum temperature of 17 degrees Celsius while maximum temperature will be around 35 degrees Celsius.

Amid increasing Covid cases, Kerala government has decided  not to allow devotees in the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple for now.
It was also decided to defer the 10-day annual festival and to conduct it as a mere ritual.

Earlier it was decided to open the temple through online reservation. Authorities informed that Sabarimala being a large pilgrim centre where people from different parts of South India congregate in large numbers, the risk involved in throwing the holy hillock open for devotees at this situation is very high.

The Uttar Pradesh government is launching a state level sample collection campaign today to find out the level of corona infection among the different sections of society. The campaign will run for one week in which various clusters of the society will be tested which includes delivery boys, newspaper vendors and other daily workers. Principal secretary health, Amit Mohan Prasad said that under this campaign samples to those people will be taken who move frequently due to their work.

AIR correspondent reports, today on the first day the campaign  team of health workers will visit old age homes, women’s hostels, orphanage and juvenile homes and will take samples of the inmates. Tomorrow, on Saturday samples will be taken from slums of city areas. Similarly those people who are involved in home delivery, newspaper vendors, employees of hospitals, milk suppliers, security guards, pharmacist salesman, and clerical staff of hospitals will be tested on different days.

The aim of this exercise is to get the information about the spread of Corona infection so that measures can be taken to control this.

He said that such a campaign was launched among migrant workers in 18 districts of state to know the level of infection.

In these districts 72 villages were chosen where 50 or migrants have been returned and after completion of their 15 days Quarantine other persons of the village were tested to get the information about the spread of virus. The motive was to understand how successfully the workers spent the quarantine period and whether they infected other villages also or not. He said that all reports of tested persons came negative.

The number of coronavirus cases in Gujarat crossed 22,000 mark yesterday with the addition of 513 fresh cases in the last 24 hours. A health department release said 366 patients were discharged from hospitals in the last 24 hours, taking the number of recoveries to 15,109 in the state. The death toll in the state continued to rise even yesterday. With the death of 38 more patients in the last 24 hours, the death toll in the state increased to 1,385. As many as 5, 573 patients are undergoing treatment for Covid 19 across the state.

AIR correspondent reports that the State government yesterday allowed testing by private laboratories based on the preion of any private physician who is an MD. The decision will come into force from today.

The State Health Minister Nitin Patel told the media that private laboratories can test the samples for Covid 19 based on the preion from an MD or above level doctor. The doctor should inform the Health department through email about such cases. Mr Patel said strong action will be taken against the hospitals in case of overcharging. He said citizens can approach directly to his office to register a complaint in this regard. Earlier, only hospitalised patients were allowed to undergo testing from private labs. Talking about the continuous surge in the death toll, Mr Patel said the majority of deaths reported in the state are due to comorbidity. The Ahmedabad district reported a total of 1,117 deaths till date.

The district recorded more than 7 per cent of mortality rate which is one of the highest in the country. Meanwhile, Gandhinagar District administration issued a notice to a private hospital in Dehgam town after it was found to be treating COVID-19 patients without the necessary permission from the authorities.

Live Bold and Bloom

“His conscience was the strongest element of his nature. His affections were tender and warm. His whole nature was simple and sincere – he was pure, and then was himself.”

“Such a nature was admirably constituted to direct an heroic struggle on the part of a people proud enough to prefer a guide to a leader, a man commissioned to execute the popular will but, as in his case, strong enough to enforce his own.”

If you haven’t guessed yet, these good attributes were written about the character of the sixteenth President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln.

President Lincoln was a role model for integrity and honesty.

He offers us so many examples of good character traits.

These good qualities stayed with him throughout the trials and tribulations of leading a country during one of the worst periods of its history.

Of course, Lincoln was president during the 19th century when the character of a person was a highly-regarded quality.

What’s In This Article
What is good character?
Why is good character important?
Let’s look at 25 good character traits that impact your happiness.
1. Integrity
2. Honesty
3. Loyalty
4. Respectfulness
5. Responsibility
6. Humility
7. Compassion
8. Fairness
9. Forgiveness
10. Authenticity
11. Courageousness
12. Generosity
13. Perseverance
14. Politeness
15. Kindness
16. Lovingness
17. Optimism
18. Reliability
19. Conscientiousness
20. Self-disciplined
21. Ambitiousness
22. Encouraging
23. Forgiving
24. Considerate
25. Thoroughness
Character Traits for Kids
How to Build Good Character
Step 1: Define your core values.
Step 2: Practice the habits.
Step 3: Find people with good character.
Step 5: Take some risks.
Step 6: Stretch yourself.
Step 7: Commit to self-improvement.

What is good character?
Good character includes traits like loyalty, honesty, courage, integrity, fortitude, and other important virtues that promote good behavior.

A person with good character chooses to do the right thing because he or she believes it is the morally right to do so.

Other positive character traits have less to do with morals but still define a person’s character.

For example, being tenacious or creative can be excellent attributes but are not moral imperatives.

When a person possesses good character, it is exhibited through his or her words and actions.

It’s not limited to a single value, but the traits are demonstrated in the “good” choices they make and the “bad” choices they avoid.

Why is good character important?
According to historian Warren Susman in his book Culture as History, the use of the phrase “good character” peaked in the 19th century.

“Character was a keyword in the vocabulary of Englishmen and Americans,” says Susman, and so important to society that it was promoted as an essential component of one’s identity.

Things began to change in the 20th century, as we transitioned from a producing to a consuming society. Emphasis shifted from a focus on virtue and goodness to a focus on self and material possessions.

Says Susman, “The vision of self-sacrifice began to yield to that of self-realization.”

It became more important to cultivate personality traits, influence, and outer perceptions than to develop nobility of heart, mind, and deed.

In fact, Abraham Lincoln likely would never be elected president today.

In this age of cyber-bullying and political discord, it seems that good character traits are losing their relevance.

Is developing personal traits of goodness and virtue an outdated, useless pursuit that has little value in modern society?

It doesn’t take much life experience to discover how essential attributes of integrity are when it comes to one’s self-esteem, relationships, and life satisfaction.

Good character traits . . .

Help build respect and trust from others.
Motivate and inspire better character from others.
Build self-respect and confidence.
Provide a framework for making important decisions and choices.
Reflect leadership qualities in personal and professional endeavors.
In addition, individual virtue is the linchpin for a healthy, functioning society.

Although it may not be a popular pursuit, developing these important character traits is one of the most satisfying, emotionally intelligent endeavors you’ll ever undertake.

Good character consists of defining your values and integrity based on time-tested principles and self-reflection and having the courage to live your life accordingly.

So how do you begin to improve your character?

Would you prefer a video that features this list of good character traits?

If so, we’ve designed a creative video for you to watch that we think you’ll find to very positive and motivational.

Let’s look at 25 good character traits that impact your happiness.
I invite you to look over this character traits list and pick at least one of these good qualities to begin working on:

1. Integrity
Integrity is a personal trait that has strong moral principles and core values and then conducting your life with those as your guide.

When you have integrity, you main your adherence to it whether or not other people are watching.

2. Honesty
Honesty is a good trait that is more than telling the truth. It’s living the truth.

It is being straightforward and trustworthy in all of your interactions, relationships, and thoughts. Being honest requires self-honesty and authenticity.

Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny. ~ Lao Tzu

3. Loyalty
Loyalty is an ethical trait of faithfulness and devotion to your loved ones, your friends, and anyone with whom you have a trusted relationship.

Loyalty is a good quality that can also extend to your employer, the organizations you belong to, your community, and your country.

4. Respectfulness
With this character attribute you treat yourself and others with courtesy, kindness, deference, dignity, and civility.

You offer basic respect as a sign of your value for the worth of all people and your ability to accept the inherent flaws we all possess.

5. Responsibility
This exceptional quality accepts personal, relational, career, community, and societal obligations even when they are difficult or uncomfortable.

character traits infographic
This personal trait follows through on commitments and proactively create or accept accountability for your behavior and choices.

6. Humility
You have a confident yet modest opinion of your own self-importance.

You don’t see yourself as “too good” for other people or situations.

With this honorable trait you have a learning and growth mindset and the desire to express and experience gratitude for what you have, rather than expecting you deserve more.

7. Compassion
This character traits example feels deep sympathy and pity for the suffering and misfortune of others, and you have a desire to do something to alleviate their suffering.

8. Fairness
Using discernment, compassion, and integrity, this a character trait strives to make decisions and take actions based on what you consider the ultimate best course or outcome for all involved.

9. Forgiveness
You make conscious, intentional decisions to let go of resentment and anger toward someone for an offense — whether or not forgiveness is sought by the offender.

Forgiveness may or may not include pardoning, restoration, or reconciliation. It extends both to others and to one’s self.

10. Authenticity
With this virtuous attribute you are able to be your real and true self, without pretension, posturing, or insincerity.

You are capable of showing appropriate vulnerability and self-awareness.

11. Courageousness
In spite of fear of danger, discomfort, or pain, this good human quality requires the mental fortitude to carry on with a commitment, plan, or decision, knowing it is the right or best course of action.

12. Generosity
This good quality is willing to offer time, energy, efforts, emotions, words, or assets without the expectation of something in return.

This character trait offers these freely and often joyously.

13. Perseverance
Perseverance is a character trait steadfast persistence and determination to continue on with a course of action, belief, or purpose, even if it’s difficult or uncomfortable in order to reach a higher goal or outcome.

14. Politeness
This character trait is knowledgeable of basic good manners, common courtesies, and etiquette, and are willing to apply those to all people you encounter.

You desire to learn the personal skills of politeness in order to enhance your relationships and self-esteem.

15. Kindness
Kindness is a positive attribute of being considerate, helpful, and benevolent to others.

This virtuous trait is motivated by a positive disposition and the desire for warm and pleasant interactions.

16. Lovingness
This character trait has the ability to be loving toward those you love means showing them through your words, actions, and expressions how deeply you care about them.

It includes the willingness to be open and vulnerable.

17. Optimism
Optimism is a virtuous example of having a sense of hopefulness and confidence about the future.

It involves a positive mental attitude in which you interpret life events, people, and situations in a promising light.

18. Reliability
This character quality can be consistently depended upon to follow through on your commitments, actions, and decisions. You do what you say you will do.

19. Conscientiousness
This character attribute has the desire to do things well or to the best of your ability.

You are thorough, careful, efficient, organized, and vigilant in your efforts, based on your own principles or sense of what is right.

20. Self-disciplined
With this good character trait, you are able, through good habits or willpower, to overcome your desires or feelings in order to follow the best course of action or to rise to your commitments or principles.

You have a strong sense of self-control in order to reach a desired goal.

Developing these traits of good character can be difficult to foster and maintain, but they afford so many positive benefits to improve the quality of your life.

21. Ambitiousness
When you have ambitiousness, you possess the keen desire to achieve your goals.

Whether you are seeking to make more money, build a business, excel in your career, or find the love of your life, your ambition gives you the motivation to make it happen.

This character trait is positive as long as your ambition doesn’t overshadow your values or force you to compromise other positive character traits.

22. Encouraging
When you are encouraging, you offer hope, strength, and positive reinforcement to others. You go out of your way to give someone support and confidence.

This is an excellent trait as it reveals your ability to understand and care for others in an emotionally intelligent way. Because of your encouraging nature, others are naturally attracted to you.

23. Forgiving
The ability to forgive yourself and others reveals that you have a balanced perspective of human nature and the flaws inherent in all of us.

You are able to let go of grudges and resentment which in turn frees you and anyone who might have offended you.

It is an advanced trait that is an act of courage and commitment.

24. Considerate
When you possess the trait of being considerate, you show an ability to think of other people as well as yourself.

You show care to others and seek to understand how they might feel in certain situations and adjust your behavior accordingly.

To be considerate also means being polite and respectful — even of those at a different station in life from you.

25. Thoroughness
When you are thorough, you’re willing to put in the extra effort to ensure things are done completely and correctly.

Others can count on you to fulfill your commitments with great care and attention to detail.

Your ability to be thorough and consistent in your efforts mean you can expect more success and respect in your personal and professional life.

Character Traits for Kids
Good character isn’t something you are born with. Developing good character begins when you are a child, and it’s essential that parents and teachers prioritize teaching positive character qualities.

Through activities, games, lessons, and real-world experiences, children can grow in character and understand how these important traits make them happier, more successful, and more resilient.

Teaching traits like kindness, respect, and responsibility also help children develop self-esteem, as well as moral and ethical values.

When teaching these traits to children, adult role models should consider the following:

Focus more on reinforcing good traits rather than pointing out bad ones.
Offer children more positive ways of behaving and reacting when they exhibit bad character traits.
Discuss with children how these good traits will positively impact their lives and make them more successful.
Set high (but age appropriate) standards for children and make those standards clear and actionable.
Use books and other literature with stories that reinforce positive character.
Set a good example yourself for children to emulate and aspire to.
Setting this good example means that adults must look at themselves to assess their own skills and work to improve any areas where their traits might be weak.

Let’s take a look at how you can become a role model to others by improving your character.

How to Build Good Character
If you believe developing these positive characteristics, here are some action steps to show you how.

Step 1: Define your core values.
Know what is most important to you by determining your values for your professional and personal life.

These are the principles that are the foundation for your priorities, choices, actions, and behaviors.

You can start by looking at this list of values.

Step 2: Practice the habits.
Pick one or two from this list of positive character traits above to practice for several weeks.

Write down the actions you want to take or the behaviors you define that reflect this trait, and implement them in your daily life and interactions.

Wear a rubber band on your wrist or create other reminders to help you practice these good qualities.

Step 3: Find people with good character.
Surround yourself with people who reflect the character traits you want to embrace.

They will inspire and motivate you to build these traits in yourself.

Try to avoid people who have a weak character and make bad decisions.

Step 5: Take some risks.
Start taking small actions toward a goal or value that involves some level of risk.

When you face the possibility of failure and challenge yourself toward success, you become mentally and emotionally stronger and more committed to your principles.

Step 6: Stretch yourself.
Create high standards and big goals for yourself.

Expect the best of yourself and constantly work toward that, even though you will have setbacks and occasional failures.

Every stretch builds your confidence and knowledge that your positive character traits are getting stronger.

Step 7: Commit to self-improvement.
Realize that building your character is a life-long endeavor.

It is something that is practiced both in the minutiae and the defining moments of your life.

There will be times you step up to the character traits you embrace and other times you falter.

By remaining committed to personal growth and learning about yourself, your character will naturally improve, even through the failures.

“The purpose of all the major religious traditions is not to construct big temples on the outside, but to create temples of goodness and compassion inside, in our hearts.” ~ Dalai Lama

And somewhere at a greater depth, this quotation by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama proved to be accurate one in case of the recently emerged Gopinath Temple from the Mahanadi river in Odisha.

On a very literal sense, if we try to compute this recent event in this quote, then it would seem like –

Temple of Gopinath= temple of goodness and our heart= the Mahanadi river. Let me explain this metaphor. The Temple of Gopinath is the temple of goodness and benevolence, that has emerged from the depth of our heart and this depth of heart is reflected by the Mahanadi river from where it has emerged. Now let us talk about this bubbling news.

The event is accounted from the district of Nayagarh in Odisha, when the ‘mastak’ or the ‘top’ of the temple emerged from the Mahanadi river. The temple is believed to be more than 500 years old and perhaps is submerged in the river for several centuries. According to archaeologists, that were sent by the organisation of INTACH on the site, the temple is 60 feet tall and is dedicated to Lord Gopinath, a form of Lord Vishnu. So in this sense, it’s a Vaishnava temple. They also believe that the temple was constructed in the late 15th century or in the early 16th century.

According to the reports, and researches, the top of the ancient Gopinath Temple was last seen some 11 years ago. The temple has re-emerged because the water-level of Mahanadi has reduced significantly in the region. As far as the facts given by the locals are concerned, they said there were 22 other temples that are submerged in the river but since the Gopinath temple is the tallest one, so only the top of this temple was visible.

The villagers have requested the government authorities to recover and maintain the emerged temple, so that its history can be protected and it can become a tourist spot in later years. In addition to this, INTACH has launched a special project dedicated to the Mahanadi river, which documents the heritage of this river. Currently, Anil Dhir is the Project Coordinator of the Mahanadi Project (INTACH).

https://kalingatv.com/state/submerged-500-yr-old-temple-resurfaces-in-odisha/