Benefits of Game-Based Learning

What is Game-Based Learning?

Game-based learning (GBL) is a teaching method that is designed to help students learn and explore certain subjects and acquire skills while playing the game. This type of game has defined learning outcomes and is designed to help students in remembering and applying the learning in the real world. Game-based learning defies the old school method of ‘rote memorization’, in which the focus is on learning by memorization and recall of information.

The core concept behind game-based learning is repetition, failure and the achievement of goals. Students work toward a goal. During the process, they choose actions and experience the consequences of those actions. While doing so, they actively participate, learn and practice the right way to do things.

Benefits of Game-Based Learning

1. Boost self-confidence

Motivation is one of the core benefits of game-based learning.  As students progress through the game’s various stages, they feel a sense of accomplishment. Game-based learning has been shown to increase student’s self-confidence by 20%.

2. Sharpen Memory

According to studies, game-based learning sharpens memory by 90%. Because the principles are taught visually, this leads to better retention power.

3. Better Analytical Skills

Game-based learning encourages students to think critically and logically, allowing them to increase their analytical skills by four times more. 

4. Better Conceptual Knowledge

Game-based learning improves student’s conceptual understanding and knowledge by 11%. The game’s interactive aspects boost their degree of involvement and promote better learning.

5. Simplifies Complex Concepts

Theoretical concepts might be difficult to propagate. Games can be used to break them down into more manageable chunks. This trait of Game Based learning is also useful for students writing an expository essay as a college assignment.

6. Motivate towards completing tasks

Game-based learning keeps students engaged and allows them to accomplish three times as many activities as they would with traditional learning techniques.

7. Enhance real-world skills

Game-based learning encourages students to “learn by doing.” The learner gains a 20% better understanding of real-world applications through hands-on experience.

8. Inquiry-based learning

By performing certain actions and then understanding and facing the consequences of those actions, the learner takes an active role in acquiring knowledge.

9. Encourages Teamwork

Since game-based learning involves complex activities, the entire group can  team up in the learning environment, conceptualize the potential results and offer their plans in solving the problems.

10. Provide immediate feedback

Students feel motivated when they get their scores immediately, pushing themselves to play until they get the perfect scores.

Conclusion

Game-based learning improves a student’s ability to acquire and retain new information. It helps students in learning new concepts, remembering them, and applying them when needed.

As a student, you can try to find games that are related to the subjects you are studying. You will notice a big change in your learning abilities as you dive deep into the virtual world of knowledge.

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

MEANING:

Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to perceive, control and evaluate emotions. Some researches suggest that emotional intelligence can be learned as well as strengthened, while others claim that it can only an inborn characteristic.

The ability to express and control emotions is essential, but so is the ability to understand, interpret, and respond to the emotions of others. Imagine a world in which you could not understand when a friend was feeling sad or when a co-worker was angry. Psychologists refer to this term as Emotional Intelligence and some experts even suggest that it can be more important than IQ in ones overall success in life.

MEASURING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE:

There are different assessments which have emerged to measure levels of emotional intelligence. Such tests generally fall into one of two types: Self report tests and ability tests.

1.SELF REPORT TESTS:

These are the most common tests because they are the easiest to administer and score. On such tests respondents respond to questions or statement by rating their own behaviour. For example,”I often handle things with utmost patience,” a test taker might describe the statement a true or false or strongly agree or disagree.

2.ABILITY TESTS:

It involves having people respond to situations and then assessing their skills. Such tests often require people to demonstrate their abilities, which are then rated by a third party.

USE OF EI:

Emotional Intelligence can be used in many ways in our daily life. Some different ways to practice emotional intelligence include:

  • Being able to accept criticism and responsibility
  • Being able to move on after making a mistake
  • Being able to say no when you need to
  • Being able to share your feelings with others
  • Being able to solve problems in a way which works for everyone
  • Having empathy for others
  • Having great listening skills
  • Knowing why you would the things you do
  • Not being judgemental of others

Emotional Intelligence is essential for good interpersonal communication. Some experts believe that this ability is more important in determining life success than IQ alone. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to strengthen your own social and emotional intelligence.

TIPS FOR IMPROVING EI:

Being emotionally intelligent is important therefore here are some tips:

1.LISTEN:

If you want to understand what other people are feeling, the first step is to pay attention. Take time to figure out what people are trying to tell you both verbally and non verbally. Body Language can carry a great deal of meaning.

2.EMPATHIZE:

Picking up on emotions is critical but you also need to be able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes in order to truly understand their point of view. Practice empathising with other people. Try to get how you would feel in their situation. Such practices can help you understand the other persons situation better and give you stronger emotional skills in the long term.

3.REFLECT:

The ability to reason with someones emotions is important part of Emotional Intelligence. Consider how your own emotions influence your decisions and behaviours. When you are thinking about how other people respond, assess the role that their emotions play.

IMPACT OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE:

There are many examples of how Emotional Intelligence can play a role in daily life:

THINKING BEFORE REACTING:

Emotionally Intelligent people know that emotions can be powerful, but also temporary. When a highly charged emotional incident happens, the ideal response of Emotional Intelligent people would lets take a moment to respond. This allows them to calm their emotions and think more rationally about all the factors surrounding the argument.

GREATER SELF-AWARENESS:

Emotionally Intelligent people are not only good at understanding other peoples feelings but they are also great at understanding their own feelings. Self awareness allows people to consider the many different factors that contribute to their emotions.

EMPATHY FOR OTHERS:

A large part of Emotional Intelligence is being able to think about and empathise with how other people are feeling. This often involves considering how you would respond if you were in the same situation.

CONCLUSION:

Interest in teaching and learning social and emotional intelligence has grown in recent years. Social and Emotional Learning programs have become a standard part of the curriculum for many schools. Learning more about Emotional Intelligence should be encouraged more and more in Schools and workplaces as study states that it’s what gives you more success than your Intelligent Quotient. The goal of learning Emotional Intelligence is that it gives ways to improve your health and well-being but it also helps students to succeed academically.

What She Wants

Do not lie, we know you are kinda tired of the same boring gifts you receive or give to your beloved on special occasions. I mean, a teddy bear or a box of chocolates? How predictable. Don’t get me wrong, these are nice gifts but quite overrated. You need to up your game!

Well to help you out, we have a list of things your beloved might just love a little too much!

  1. Skincare Products

Gone are the times giving your significant other skincare products meant they were aging: in this era, skincare is given utmost importance, regardless of age and gender. From a good Clinique moisturizer to a basket full of Laneige face masks, investing in a good skincare product from a great and reputable company does wonders. A side note though — please make sure it’s something your partner wants and is good for their skin!

2. Perfumes

Another long time investment is a good perfume. You can go for Chanel N°5 Eau De Parfum, Paco Rabanne Lady Million Eau De Parfum, Dior J’adore Eau De Parfum etc., to name a few. They are a few cult favorites. They sure are expensive, but they last a long time! If you want something lighter for the wallet, you can go for Bath and Works, Victoria’s Secret, Pink, and The Body Shop.

3. Shoes

Whether it be red Bottoms or good old Converse All Star, a pair of shoes are a sure shot. You can gift them Uggs. Yes you read it right, Uggs are trending again and we love comfy shoes. You simply cannot go wrong with the evergreen Air force 1s, it is a basic need. You may check out H&M, Zara, Forever21 etc., for other options. The possibilities are endless.

4. D.I.Y Box

Gifting a do it yourself box is hands down a spectacular idea and super budget-friendly and touching. From a D.I.Y charm bracelet to a sundae box, the sky is the limit. People can actually spend time on their gift and making it on their own is, in itself, a treat!

5. A Getaway

A getaway ticket to your better half’s favourite place might just be the answer for you if you are still lost on what you want to gift them. It doesn’t have to be expensive, it can be a bonfire night under the stars, a resort retreat , a beach resort and so on. If you both are homebodies do not worry we have got you covered, a cool fort, some delicious comfort food and a nice movie should do the trick!

And lastly, shower lots of love to them not only on special occasions or specific days but till death do its part because nothing is a greater gift than the gift of sincere love!

Industry-Academia Cooperation is crucial to channelize the young talent and human resources

 Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers Shri Mansukh Mandaviya today launched NIPER Research Portal along with Shri Bhagwanth Khuba, Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers in presence of Dr V. K Paul, Member (Health), Niti Aayog. National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Research Portal has been created with the aim to disseminate the information about all the NIPERs and their research activities, patents filed and Publication information at one place so that a industry and other stakeholders know about them.

Reiterating the vision of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan and Jai Anusandhaan, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya said that Research & Development is one of the crucial pillars for a country’s economy. He said that we need to harness this energy of aspirations of all stakeholders and create a holistic ecosystem. Our expertise in generics can also be further expanded to other sectors, he added.

Pointing towards the importance of healthy competition both in Industry and Academia, the Union Minister noted that competition and demand is a necessity of research and innovation as this promotes quality ideas and solutions for our citizens. He stressed that Research and Innovation is a necessity for the sustained growth of pharmaceuticals sector.

The Minister stated that the country already has young talent and human resources, but we need to channelize them effectively through Industry-Academia cooperation. To enhance this industry–Academia collaboration, the Department of Pharmaceuticals has created this Research Portal to capture the research activities of all seven NIPERs, he informed. He said that that the platform inaugurated today would help us in promoting this synergy and would be a boon for our industries, especially the MSME sector.

Shri  Bhagwanth Khuba said India is the third-largest pharmaceutical manufacturing country and our vaccine development story is an example of effective cooperation among stakeholders.  He said that the platform will track the research and tasks of all NIPERS. He further said that the Government is committed to promote research and innovation and this portal is a step in that direction.

Dr VK Paul recollected the key role played by NIPERs in India’s health ecosystem. He requested the government to streamline the funding pipeline and expedite the budgets allocated. He urged the industry to provide support like the NIPERs research fund for priority areas. He also encouraged NIPERs to create a vibrant scientific community by engaging with stakeholders and mobilizing ideas of the young generation, promoting academic autonomy and delivering on their research goals.

Accentuating the importance of NIPER’s Research Program, which focuses on the needs of the hour, the Secretary, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ms S. Aparna said that the importance of Research and Innovation has never been more important and more apparent than in the last two years of the global pandemic. We have seen the need for new drugs, re-purposed drugs, safer drugs, more efficacious drugs and the most affordable drugs to help mankind, she added.  Shri highlighted that the portal will promote research work that is more relevant to the current evolving need of the sector and the requirements of the patient community.

The purpose of this portal is to authenticate availability of the research work that is ongoing. It will help other researchers and especially the industry to get in touch with the relevant organization so that they can work together and make the research more purposeful and meaningful. For long, research institutes have been working in silos or isolation. The research portal will try to bring together research institutions spread across different departments within government and also these institutions with industries. The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers also requested all relevant research institutions like the Department of Biotechnology, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of AYUSH, ICMR etc., and even DRDO, where a lot of pharmaceuticals sector-related research takes place to join this portal.

Kindly click the link below to see the portal:

http://nipermis.pharmaceuticals.gov.in/

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Apprentices trained in railway establishments are given preference in appointment over others

 Indian Railways has been providing training to applicants in designated trades under the provisions of the Apprentices Act since August 1963. These applicants are taken as apprentices based on their academic qualification without any competition or selection. Though the railways were obligated to provide only training to such candidates, those who completed their training were being engaged as Substitutes against level 1 posts, since 2004.

  • Substitutes are temporary appointees who can be engaged to meet any exigencies and operational requirements. While such appointees are given benefits, due to temporary railway servants, they are not entitled to be absorbed in permanent employment without undergoing due process.
  • In view of the ongoing transformation of Indian Railways and with a view to bringing fairness, transparency and objectivity in all railway recruitments, the railways centralized the process for all recruitments to level 1 in 2017, which would henceforth be conducted through a common nationwide computer based test (CBT)
  • The Apprentices Act was amended in 2014 whereby section 22 of the Act provided that an employer shall formulate a policy for recruiting apprentices trained in its establishment. Pursuant to such amendment, Indian Railways made a provision to give preference to apprentices trained in railway establishments in open market recruitment to level 1 posts, to the extent of 20% of the posts advertised.
  • While these apprentices appear for written test along with other candidates, they are given preference in appointment over others, subject to obtaining minimum qualifying marks and meeting and medical standards.
  • Accordingly, 12504 Level 1 posts out of 63202 advertised vide CEN 02/2018 were earmarked for such candidates in the first common recruitment held in 2018. Similarly, 20734 Level-1 posts, out of 103769 posts advertised under CEN RRC 01/2019 have been earmarked for these apprentices. Recruitment for this notification is to be held.
  • These apprentices are demanding for appointment in the railways without undergoing the prescribed recruitment process, namely written test and physical efficiency test that all other candidates are required to undergo as per extant rules. This demand is not feasible for acceptance as it is violative of Constitutional provisions and Apex Court judgment in matters of public employment whereby any employment cannot be provided except through a procedure involving fair selection.

Exports of Marine Products register a growth of 35%

 Exports of Marine Products registered a growth of 35% to USD 6.1 Billion during April-December 2021 (Provisional) as compared to USD 4.5 Billion during same period in the year 2020. As compared to April-December 2019 (USD 5.5 Billion) and April-December 2014 (USD 4.4 Billion), exports of Marine Products registered a growth of 12% and 38% respectively.

In the month of December 2021, exports of Marine Products touched USD 720.51 Million, registering a growth of 28.01% over $562.85 Mn logged in December 2020.

The overall exports of Marine Products in the last Financial Year (March, 2020-April, 2021) was USD 5.96 Billion, and with USD 6.11 Billion scaled during the first three Quarters of FY2021-22, the sector is very likely to exceed the all-time high of USD 7.02 Billion exports achieved in the FY2017-18, despite the impact of the Covid19 pandemic since January, 2020.

Top 5 export destinations in April-November 2021 (latest available, share% in bracket) are: USA (44.5%), China (15.3%), Japan (6.2%), Vietnam (4%) & Thailand (3%). Frozen shrimps constitute the major share in India’s Marine Products exports items with 74% share in value terms (USD); Frozen Fish (7%), Others (6%) and Frozen Squid (5%) constitute the other major items in the Marine Products exports basket in FY2020-21. Others category included primarily Surimi and Surimi analogue (imitation) products.

Several exports promotion schemes for Fisheries have been implemented by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), a statutory body set up in 1972 under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry for promotion of export of marine products from India. The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in May 2020 with an array of 100 diverse activities. With a budget of Rs. 20,050 crore, it is by far the largest investment to bring about Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of fisheries sector in India. PMMSY, being implemented over a period of 5 years from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25 in all States/Union Territories, has set a target of Rs. 1,00,000 crore fisheries export, additional 70 lakh tonnes fish production, and generation of 55 lakh employment in the years to come.

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Mann Ki Baat

 My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Today we are coming together through yet another episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’. This is the first ‘Mann Ki Baat’ of 2022. Today we will once again take forward discussions which are related to the positive inspirations and collective efforts of our country and countrymen. Today is also the death anniversary of our revered Bapu Mahatma Gandhi ji. The 30th of January reminds us of the teachings of Bapu. Just a few days ago, we celebrated Republic Day as well. The display of the nation’s valour and strength, which we witnessed on Rajpath in Delhi filled everyone with pride and enthusiasm. One change you must have noticed is that now the Republic Day functions will start from the 23rd of January, i.e. the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and will continue till the 30th of January i.e. Gandhiji’s death anniversary. A digital sculpture of Netaji has also been installed at India Gate. We can never forget the way the country welcomed this, the wave of joy that arose from every corner of the country; the kind of feelings expressed by every countryman.

 

Friends, in the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the country is re-establishing its national symbols through these efforts. We saw that the ‘Amar Jawan Jyoti’ near India Gate and the Jyoti lit at the ‘National War Memorial’ in the vicinity, were merged. There were tears in the eyes of many countrymen and martyr families on this emotional occasion. At the ‘National War Memorial’, the names of all the bravehearts of the country who have been martyred since Independence have been inscribed. Some former soldiers of the army have written to me saying that – “The ‘Amar Jawan Jyoti’ lit at the memorial is a symbol of the immortality of the martyrs”. Truly, like ‘Amar Jawan Jyoti’ our martyrs, their inspiration and their contribution are also immortal. I would urge all of you to certainly visit the ‘National War Memorial’ whenever you get an opportunity. Do take along your family and children too. Here you will feel a different energy and inspiration.

 

Friends, in the midst of these events of Amrit Mahotsav, many important national awards were also given away in the country. One of them is the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Baal Puraskaar. These awards are given to the children who have rendered courageous and inspirational work at a young age. We all must highlight about these children in our homes. Our children will also get inspiration from this and the enthusiasm to bring glory to the country will be awakened in them. Padma awards have also just been announced in the country. There are many names among the recipients of Padma awards, about whom very few people know. These are the unsung heroes of our country, who have done extraordinary deeds in ordinary circumstances. For example, Basanti Devi of Uttarakhand, who has been honored with Padma Shri, lived her whole life in the midst of struggles. Her husband died at an early age and she had started living in an ashram. Staying there, she fought to save the river and made an extraordinary contribution to the environment. She has also done a lot of work for the empowerment of women. Similarly, 77-year-old Lorembam Beino Devi of Manipur has been conserving the Liba textile art of Manipur for decades. She has also been awarded the Padma Shri. Arjun Singh of Madhya Pradesh has received Padma award for imparting recognition to the art of Baiga tribal dance. Another person to receive the Padma award is Shriman Amai Mahalinga Naik. He is a farmer and hails from Karnataka. Some people also call him Tunnel Man. He has made such innovations in agriculture, seeing which anyone could be surprised. Small farmers are getting huge benefit from his efforts. There are many more such unsung heroes who have been honoured by the country for their contribution. You must try to know about them. We will get to learn a lot from them in life.

 

My dear countrymen, all of you send a lot of letters and messages, including many suggestions in connection with The Amrit Mahotsav. Under this series something has happened which is unforgettable for me. More than one crore children have written to me through their ‘Mann Ki Baat’ post cards. These one crore post cards have come from different parts of the country; they have also come from abroad. I have tried to take time out to read many of these post cards. These postcards show how broad and wide is the vision of our new generation for the future of the country. I have shortlisted some postcards for the listeners of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ which I want to share with you. Like this one is the post card of Riddhima Swargiyari from Guwahati, Assam. Riddhima is a student of class 7th and she has written that she wants to see an India in the 100th year of independence which is the cleanest country in the world, completely free of terrorism, included in the 100 percent literate countries, Zero accident country, and be capable of food security with sustainable technology. Riddhima, what our daughters think, the dreams they see for the country, do come true. When everyone’s efforts come together, when your young generation will work towards this goal, you will definitely make India the way you want her to be. I have also got a post card of Navya Verma of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Navya has written that her dream for 2047 is of an India where everyone has a dignified life, where farmers are prosperous and there is no corruption.

 

Navya, your dream for the country is very commendable. The country is also moving rapidly in this direction. You talked about a corruption free India. Corruption hollows the country like a termite. Why wait for 2047 to get rid of it? All of us countrymen, today’s youth have to do this work together, as soon as possible and for this it is very important that we give priority to our duties. Where duty is felt, Duty is paramount, corruption cannot even think of entering there.

 

Friends, in front of me is another postcard of Mohammed Ibrahim from Chennai. Ibrahim wants to see India as a major power in the field of defence in 2047. He wants that India should have its own research base on the Moon, and that India should start the work of settling the human population on Mars. Ibrahim also sees a big role for India in making the earth free from pollution. Ibrahim, nothing is impossible for a country that has youth like you.

 

Friends, I have another letter in front of me sent by Bhavna, a class 10th student of Saraswati Vidya Mandir in Raisen, Madhya Pradesh. First of all, I will say to Bhavna that I really liked the way you have decorated your postcard with the Tricolor. Bhavna has written about revolutionary Shirish Kumar.

 

Friends, I have also received Laurencio Pereira’s postcard from Goa. She is a student of class 12th. The subject of her letter is also – Unsung Heroes of Freedom. I am sharing with you its essence in Hindi. She has written that Bhikaji Cama was one of the bravest women involved in the Indian freedom struggle. She carried out many campaigns in the country and abroad to empower daughters; organized many exhibitions. Certainly Bhikaji Cama was one of the most courageous women of the freedom movement. In 1907, she hoisted the Tricolor in Germany. The person who supported her in designing this Tricolor was  Shri Shyamji Krishna Varma. Shri Shyamji Krishna Varma ji died in 1930 in Geneva. His last wish was that after India’s independence, his ashes should be brought to India. Although his ashes should have been brought back to India on the very next day of independence in 1947, this did not happen. Maybe it was the wish of the Almighty to assign me this work… and I was fortune to fulfil this duty. In the year 2003, when I was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, his ashes were brought to India. A memorial has also been constructed in the memory of Shyamji Krishna Varma ji at his birth place, Mandvi in ​​Kutch.

 

Friends, the enthusiasm of India’s Azaadi ka Amrit Mahotsav is not limited to our country. I have also received 75 postcards from Croatia, a friendly country of India. Students of the School of Applied Arts and Design in Zagreb, Croatia have sent these 75 cards to the people of India and congratulated them on the Amrit Mahotsav. On behalf of all countrymen, I thank Croatia and her people.

 

My dear countrymen, India has been the sacred land of education and knowledge. We have not confined education to bookish knowledge, but have seen it as a holistic experience of life. The great personalities of our country have also had a deep relationship with education. While Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya ji founded the Banaras Hindu University, Mahatma Gandhi played an important role in the establishment of Gujarat Vidyapeeth. There is a very lovely place in Anand, Gujarat – Vallabh Vidyanagar. On the insistence of Sardar Patel, two of his associates, Bhai Kaka and Bhikha Bhai, established education centres for the youth there. Similarly, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore established Shantiniketan in West Bengal. Maharaja Gaikwad was also one of the ardent supporters of education. He got many educational institutions built and inspired many personalities including Dr.Ambedkar and Shri Aurobindo for higher education. In the list of such great personalities, there is also the name of Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh ji. Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh ji had handed over his house for the establishment of a technical school. He gave a lot of financial help for the construction of education centers in Aligarh and Mathura. Sometime back I also had the privilege of laying the foundation stone of a university in his name in Aligarh. I am happy that the same vibrant spirit of taking the light of education to the people continues in India even today. Do you know what is the most beautiful thing about this feeling? That is, this awareness about education is visible at every level in the society. The example of Taimmal ji living in Udumalpet block of Trippur district of Tamil Nadu is very inspiring. Taimmal ji does not have any land of her own. For years, her family is making a living by selling coconut water. The financial condition may not be good, but Taimmal ji had left no stone unturned to educate her son and daughter. Her children studied in Chinnaveerampatti Panchayat Union Middle School. One day in the meeting with the parents in the school, it was raised that the condition of the classrooms and school should be improved; the school infrastructure should be fixed. Taimmal ji was also in that meeting. She heard everything. In the same meeting, the discussion again came to a halt on the paucity of money for these works. After this, no one could have imagined what Taimmal did. Taimmal ji, who had accumulated some capital by selling coconut water, doanted one lakh rupees to the school.

 

Indeed, it takes a big heart, a sense of service, to do this. Taimmal ji says that in the school that is there has classes till 8th standard. Now when the infrastructure of the school improves, classes till higher secondary education will be held. This is the same sentiment I was talking about regarding education in our country. I have also come to know about a similar donation by an alumnus of IIT BHU. Jai Chaudhary, alumnus of BHU, donated one million dollars i.e. about seven and a half crores to IIT BHU Foundation.

 

Friends, in our country there are many people belonging to different fields, who are fulfilling their responsibility towards the society by helping others. I am very happy that such efforts are being seen continuously in the field of higher education especially in our different IITs. There is no dearth of such inspiring examples in Central Universities as well. To further enhance such efforts, from September last year, Vidyanjali Abhiyan has also been started in the country. Its objective is to improve the quality of education in schools across the country with the participation of various organizations, CSR and private sector. Vidyanjali is furthering the spirit of community participation and ownership. To be constantly connected with your school, college, to contribute something according to your ability, it is something whose fulfilment and joy  can be felt only through experience.

 

My dear countrymen, love for nature and compassion for every living being, this is our culture as well as innate nature. A glimpse of these Sanskaras of ours was seen recently when a tigress left the world in Pench Tiger Reserve of Madhya Pradesh. People used to call this tigress collared tigress. The Forest Department named it T-15. The death of this tigress made people so emotional as if someone of their own had left the world. People performed her last rites, bid her farewell with full respect and affection. You must have also seen these pictures on social media. This love of Indians for nature and living beings was greatly appreciated the world over. The collared tigress gave birth to 29 cubs in her lifetime and raised 25 of them to maturity. We also celebrated this life of T-15 and when she left the world, we also gave her a heartfelt farewell. This is the specialty of the people of India. We make a relationship of love with every conscious being. We also got to see a similar sight this time in the Republic Day parade as well. In this parade, the charger mount of the President’s Bodyguard, Virat took part in his last parade. Horse Virat came to Rashtrapati Bhavan in 2003 and used to lead the parade every time on Republic Day as Commandant Charger. Even when a foreign head of state was welcomed in Rashtrapati Bhavan, Virat used to play this role. This year, on Army Day, horse Virat was also given COAS Commendation Card by the Army Chief. In view of Virat’s immense services, after his retirement he was given farewell in an equally grand manner.

 

My dear countrymen, when there is a sincere effort, work is done with a noble intention, results also follow. A great example of this has emerged from Assam. As soon as the name of Assam is taken, the thought of tea plantation and many national parks come to mind. Along with this, the picture of one horned rhinoceros i.e. one horn rhino also emerges in our mind. You all know that the one horned rhinoceros has always been a part of Assamese culture. This song of Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika ji will resonate in every ear.

 

Friends, the meaning of this song is very relevant. This song says, the lush green surroundings of Kaziranga, the abode of elephants and tigers, the Earth watches one horned rhinoceros and listens to the melodious chirping of birds. The images of the rhinoceros are also seen in the Moonga and Eri dresses woven on the world famous handlooms of Assam. The rhinoceros, which has such great glory in the culture of Assam, also had to face difficulties. In 2013, 37 and in 2014, 32 rhinos were killed by poachers. To tackle this challenge, a huge campaign against the poaching of rhinoceros was launched in the last seven years with the special efforts of the Assam government. On the 22nd of September last year, on the occasion of World Rhino Day, more than 2400 horns seized from smugglers were burnt. This was a stern message to the poachers. The result of such efforts is that now there is a steady decrease in the hunting of rhinos in Assam. Where 37 rhinos were killed in 2013, 2 killings in 2020 and only 1 in 2021 have come to the fore. I appreciate the resolve of the people of Assam to save the rhinoceros.

 

Friends, the diverse colours and spiritual strength of Indian culture have always attracted people from all over the world. If I tell you that Indian culture is very popular in America, Canada, Dubai, Singapore, Western Europe and Japan, you will find this very common; you will not be surprised. But, if I say that Indian culture has a big attraction in Latin America and South America too, you will definitely think once. Whether it is a matter of promoting Khadi in Mexico or an attempt to popularize Indian traditions in Brazil, we have discussed these topics earlier in ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Today I will tell you about the Indian culture making its mark in Argentina. Our culture is very much liked in Argentina. In 2018, during my visit to Argentina, I participated in a yoga program – ‘Yoga for Peace’. There is an organization in Argentina – Hastinapur Foundation. You will be surprised to hear… whither Argentina… and Hastinapur Foundation there too! This foundation is involved in the propagation of Indian Vedic traditions in Argentina. It was founded 40 years ago by a lady, Professor Aida Albrecht. Professor Aida Albrecht is going to turn 90 today. How her association with India happened is also very interesting. When she was 18 years old, she was first introduced to the power of Indian culture. She also spent a lot of time in India. She studied about Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads in depth. Today the Hastinapur Foundation has more than 40,000 members and about 30 branches in Argentina and other Latin American countries. Hastinapur Foundation has also published more than 100 Vedic and philosophical texts in Spanish language. Her ashram is also very enchanting. Twelve temples have been built in the ashram, in which there are idols of many Gods and Goddesses. There is also a temple at the center of all this which has been built for Advaitwadi Dhyan.

 

Friends, hundreds of such examples prove that our culture is a priceless heritage not only for us, but for the whole world. People all over the world want to know it, want to understand it, and want to live it. We should also try to make our cultural heritage a part of our life with full responsibility and try to take it to all the people.

 

My dear countrymen, I now want to ask a question to you and especially to our youth. Now imagine how many push-ups you can do at once. What I am about to tell you will surely fill you with wonder? Thounaojam Niranjoy Singh, a 24-year-old youth in Manipur, has made a record of 109 push-ups in a minute. Breaking the record is nothing new for Niranjoy Singh, earlier also, he had held the record for most Knuckle push-ups with one hand in a minute. I am sure you will be inspired by Niranjoy Singh and make physical fitness a part of your life.

 

Friends, today I want to share with you one such information about Ladakh which you will definitely be proud to know about. Ladakh will soon be blessed with an impressive Open Synthetic Track and Astro Turf Football Stadium. This stadium is being built at a height of more than 10,000 feet and its construction is going to be completed soon. This will be the largest open stadium in Ladakh where 30,000 spectators can sit together. This modern football stadium in Ladakh will also have a synthetic track with 8 lanes. Apart from this, there will also be a hostel facility with one thousand beds. You will also like to know that this stadium has also been certified by FIFA, the biggest organization of football. Whenever such a big sports infrastructure comes up, it brings great opportunities to the youth of the country. Alongwith such an arrangement, movement of people from all over the country takes place, tourism gets promoted and many employment opportunities are created. The stadium will also benefit many of our youth in Ladakh.

 

My dear countrymen, this time also in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ we touched upon many topics. There is one more topic, which is on everyone’s mind at this time and that is of Corona. India is fighting with great success with the new wave of corona, it is also a matter of pride that till now about four and a half crore children have been administered the dose of Corona Vaccine. This means that about 60% of youth in the age group of 15 to 18 years have got their vaccines within three to four weeks. This will not only protect our youth but will also help them to continue with their studies. Another good thing is that within 20 days, one crore people have taken the precaution dose as well. This trust of our countrymen on the indigenous vaccine is our great strength. Now the cases of corona infection have also started decreasing – this is a very positive sign. People should be safe, the pace of economic activities of the country should be maintained – this is the wish of every countryman. And you already know, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, there are certain things, I cannot stay without mentioning… like, we should not forget the’Swachhta Abhiyan’ ; we should accelerate the campaign against single use plastic; Vocal for Local mantra is our responsibility, we have to work wholeheartedly for the Atma Nirbhar Bharat campaign. With the efforts of all of us, the country will reach new heights of development. With this wish, I bid you farewell. Thank you very much

 

******

Myths in affiliate marketing

There are some myths in affiliate marketing, which attract a lot of people to it believing they are true. First is they think managing an online business is easy and second, they think that one can make a fortune through online marketing in an instant. Probably not even 10% of those who are into affiliate marketing became rich overnight. There may be some who fortunately achieved overwhelming success in just a short span of time after setting up an affiliate program, but not a majority of them can confidently say they only had luck. Anyone who is successful in this kind of business would say he worked hard to get to where he is right now. Success in affiliate marketing takes time and hard work, but it’s worth it.

If you are planning to start an affiliate program, one of the things you have to consider is having your own website, not just an ordinary website but a professional looking one. How do you build an affiliate marketing website? What are the easy steps to build one? First, you must have already decided on the theme or niche of your website. It would be better if you already have an idea what products or services to promote as this would help you plan the design and lay-out of your web pages. The next thing to do is to choose a domain name and get it hosted. The domain name is a unique name used to label the actual address of your website on the Internet. In deciding what domain name to register, look into the type of products you are endorsing and the theme of your site. Having the right keywords in your domain name would give you better chances of drawing more visitors to your website. Also, choose a top level domain or extension, such as .com because it is more popular. In selecting your web host, consider the security of servers and up time guarantees.

Now, you can start creating your webpages. Don’t be disheartened when you know a little in this field. There are page generation tools and fast launch sites available online; you just have to search for them. Countless online sources could help you build an affiliate marketing website, though you might need time to study and learn the whole process. This is one of the reasons why your site or the products you are going to promote must match your interest. Building your marketing website for the first time would be a lot more fun if you know very well the theme of your site. If you don’t have time to make your own website, you can use templates or purchase readily available websites. The latter, however, is a more expensive option.

Creating an affiliate website on your own would be cheaper and more interesting. In the process of building your website, you may also increase your knowledge in Information Technology and the use of computers, softwares and the Internet. As you educate yourself in these fields, you are increasing your advantage against other affiliate marketers. It helps a lot, though, if you already know the basics in web page development like programming languages and graphics softwares because you can make your site extra corporate-looking, more convenient to use or easier to navigate. Furthermore, if you are knowledgeable and skillful in this area, you can already concentrate more on the content of the page rather than the design.

The key to draw visitors to your website is to have high quality content; thus, the next thing you must pay attention to in building your marketing website is this. There may be several other factors that contribute to the success of your affiliate marketing site, but a good content tops the list. This is precisely the reason why users choose to enter your site. They want to get information and so when they don’t find it, they would definitely go elsewhere. Write interesting articles related to your theme as this would make them frequent your site. If you have already looked for affiliate programs that complement your site, add links to the business sites and other very good informative sites. Links contribute to how well you will be listed in major search engines as well. Also, create pages for the products you are endorsing, but don’t just promote the products by putting hyped-up ads. Keep your readers interested by injecting lots of relevant and useful information. This would make them click the link to the business site and buy the product. Remember that no good content means no frequent visitors, no sales and ultimately, no commission.

Make your site simple yet not without a touch of class in order to make it appear more of a business website rather than a personal website. This would be pleasing to the eyes and more interesting to browse. To help you with the design, you can check some successful online stores to get an idea on how you can make your site look better. Make sure you don’t place too many banner ads since these could distract some site users; and thus, instead of clicking your ad, they might just leave your site and look for other interesting websites. After all, banner ads are not the only means of advertising your products. Now your website is complete, submit its URL to major search engines to increase your traffic.

Grow from where you started. Learn about use of keywords for search engine optimization and apply them in your content. Update your site regularly or add new webpages. Make sure to inform your prospects about the latest updates in your site. You can use newsletters to accomplish this. The Internet offers a huge source of information about just anything, make use of it. Continue to educate yourself on how to improve your website and soon you’ll find yourself successful in affiliate marketing.

Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a form of abuse that involves a person deliberately causing someone to doubt their sanity. This may cause feelings of confusion or powerlessness. The long-term effects of gaslighting include trauma, anxiety, and depression

The term “gaslighting” comes from the 1944 movie Gaslight. In the movie, an abusive husband brightens and dims gas powered lights, then insists that his wife is hallucinating. This causes her to doubt her sanity.

Today, gaslighting describes any interaction where a person or entity manipulates someone into feeling they cannot trust their own memories, feelings, or senses.

A person on the receiving end of gaslighting may truly believe that they are not mentally well, that their memories are not accurate, or that their mind is playing tricks on them. This makes them feel dependent on the abusive person.

Examples of Gaslighting-

Countering – This strategy includes an injurious individual addressing someone’s memory of occasions, indeed in spite of the fact that they have recollected them accurately.

Withholding – This portrays somebody who imagines not to get it something, or who denies to listen.

Overlooking: This includes an injurious individual imagining they have overlooked something, or denying that something happened. 

Trivializing: This alludes to an damaging individual making someone’s concerns or sentiments appear insignificant or irrational. 

Diverting: This strategy happens when an injurious individual changes the subject, or centers on the validity of what somebody is saying instead of the substance. A few individuals too call it “blocking.”

Superstition in Hinduism

Religion in India is very dominant over its people. People have blind trust and faith in the religion and it’s practices. In India people can get killed, and people can kill for their religion.

From the day a person is born to the day he dies, he lives his entire life superstitiously. If he tries to make any progress, the fear of sin, God etc will stop him.
Indian society is a male dominated society. It doesn't matter what the standard of living of a particular person is, still his thinking and actions somewhere supports that pillar. I believe the rise in population of India is due to the desire for a baby boy instead of a girl. Here it is believed that if you keep a vow to any of the Gods and seek for a boy child, that couple would definitely get it. Sometimes by luck they get a boy and this increases the faith and belief in vows.
People make a deal with God that if I get this job I will give you this. If my son recovers soon, I will come and give you this. There are thousands of ways in which people bribe God for their own good. Even if God existed, he would never need anything as he is supreme.
It is believed that skipping one meal in a week is good for health, but here in the Hindu religion, keeping fast is to appease God, who doesn't exist. Keeping fast also doesn't mean to eat nothing, one could eat fruits and various other stuff which is not made up of wheat and all. How can a person be so selfish? Even if he is not eating, he is keeping a vow, he is doing this for his own benefit.
Before marriage it's not important to see whether a girl and boy love each other, like each other or understand each other. It's ok if thinking doesn't match, matching a horoscope is far more necessary and important. If something is going wrong between the couple after marriage it is because of the bad position and conditions of various planets in space. It's really hard to make people understand that the universe is one, the position of various planets is fixed in the orbits, how could it affect a man sitting on the earth? How can one relate to this craziness? It's really strange and shocking to see this behavior of a growing and developing society.
When a person dies and is taken for funeral, only boys can burn the dead body of his/her mother or father. Girls are not not allowed to go to the cremation grounds. This is not because they know the scientific reason, it's because they are girls.
Girls aren't allowed to enter the temple of Lord Hanuman because he never married. On one hand they worship him and on the other hand he wasn't married so girls cannot touch his statue.
People believe in the fact that ghosts exist in this world. Many claim that they have seen souls, only bad souls which eat a person at once or take him away. Where do those souls take them? No one knows. The level of Dumbness is hard to express in words. In this world no soul exists. The human body is like a machine with an additional feature of feelings, emotions and capability to think high. Heart is the engine, which pumps throughout life, the day that engine stops working, the machine is of no use. It's a kind of machine that if engine fails once it's impossible to repair it. With the body all emotions, all functions stop working. That's the end. Nobody can restart and can make it work in the form of ghosts or souls. All the evil and angels exist and live inside you and end with you.
When people worse than ghosts exist in front of your eyes openly, what's the need of bad souls which only comes in night and darkness? To trouble you? Vibes of people matter that can be evil or god.
Menstruation is one of the natural processes which every girl has to face after the age of 12 till 45-50. It's a very beautiful process created by the universe, for reproduction, and to create your young ones. In a girl’s body,  eggs exist which she lays over the membrane of blood in her ovary duct. Every month that membrane of blood waits for the sperm to fuse which later becomes a foetus and becomes a child. When the egg doesn't receive any sperm that layer breaks down and blood comes out of the body every month, which causes pain and various other problems to a girl.
However, due to superstitions, a lot of stigma is attached to this beautiful process. Girl is forced to be singled out by barring her from entering temples and kitchens, to name a few places. It is so humiliating to know that everyone now knows you are having periods. This is a private thing, there is no reason to make it public, and a point of discussion.
India is one of the major emerging and growing countries of the world. On one hand it is going towards westernization in terms of technology, culture and standard of living and on the other hand at ground reality it is stuck to the same old mentality.
There are infinite examples to give upon these superstitious behavior of the people . Majorly in Hindu religion. For real development and progress Indian society has to rise above all these, that only will lead to real development and progress.

DIGITAL FOOTPRINTS :

A digital footprint is a trail of data you create while using the Internet. It includes the websites you visit, emails you send, and information you submit to online services.

A passive digital footprint is a data trail you unintentionally leave online. Websites that install cookies on your devices, apps and websites that use your geolocation, and social media that uses your likes, shares and comments to profile you are examples of a passive digital footprint.

VIDEOS

PCOS vs PCOD

Is it PCOD or PCOS, exactly?’ Most people have never heard of these two terms, therefore discussing their differences is a very different matter. You will learn about PCOS and PCOD, their distinctions, symptoms, societal perceptions, diagnosis, risks, and treatments in this post. The societal perspective will also offer you a sense of the myths and taboos surrounding the subject.

Follicle cysts form in the ovaries as a result of the syndrome (PCOS)/disease (PCOD). It also causes an increase in androgen (male steroid hormones) release, which causes various odd alterations in a woman’s body.

Our way of living has had a significant impact on this hormone cycle. Menopause can begin as early as the thirties for some women. As a result, it’s safe to argue that we’re living in a biologically untrustworthy era.

Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.com

As previously stated, PCOS is a syndrome in which multiple cysts (liquid-filled sacs) begin to grow on both of a woman’s ovaries. They’re big, and they’re usually formed of immature eggs and other fluids. Girls have difficulty having periods as a result of this. They don’t always have them, or if they do, they’re late and unreliable.

This is generally noticed in teenagers nearly immediately after their first menstruation. PCOD, on the other hand, has similar effects on the ovary, but they are minimal. On the ovaries, smaller sacs form, which can be delayed by three months (a change in lifestyle is required) and are also fewer in number. Periods are normal in PCOD, albeit they may be delayed. When a woman of childbearing age comes into contact with it, it is detected.

Aside from cyst formation, the ovaries begin to produce androgen. Androgen is a male steroid hormone that is secreted by the ovaries in small amounts even under normal settings. Estrogen is a feminine steroid hormone that is naturally more vital for women, although androgens are released in significantly greater amounts than oestrogen in this circumstance. In a female, this causes a variety of unique alterations.

Many or all of these symptoms can affect a woman, and the indicators will appear as soon as puberty begins. Periods that are irregular or nonexistent are the most typical symptom.

There is no single test that can be used to diagnose PCOS or PCOD, and there is no consensus on what diagnostic criteria should be utilized. Because the signs and symptoms are so prevalent and comparable to those of other diseases, it takes a doctor’s experience and judgement to state and diagnose it.

To determine a diagnosis, gynecologists’ look at a mix of clinical findings such as your signs and symptoms, medical and family history, physical exam, and laboratory test results. Some tests are performed before a PCOS/PCOD diagnosis is made to rule out other possible causes of comparable symptoms.

To assess enlarged ovaries, a pelvic ultrasound (transvaginal and/or pelvic/abdominal) is employed. The ovaries with PCOS are 1.5 to 3 times larger than normal, and each ovary has 12 or more follicles measuring 2 to 9 mm in diameter. The ovaries in PCOD may not appear enormous, but they will have 5 to 6 follicles per ovary, which will be smaller.

PCOS causes infertility because it limits the frequency of ovulation in the body; females with PCOS may not be able to conceive at all, even after making lifestyle modifications.
Diabetes is caused by PCOS/PCOD, which creates insulin resistance in the body.
Heart Disease- Both of these conditions raise blood pressure in the body, putting the body at risk for heart problems.

PCOS does not have a cure and does not go away on its own. The only goal of treatment is to alleviate the symptoms and prevent additional problems. There are several choices for this, and the choice is based on the type and intensity of the particular woman’s symptoms, as well as her desire to become pregnant.

Solutions emerge if the situation isn’t forced

Today, I was at leisure and ended up sitting in front of the Television. There, I suddenly came across the movie titled “M. S. Dhoni”. I know, I know, it is a very old movie but I don’t watch a lot of movies and I missed it. So, don’t judge me and bear with me for the rest of my article so that I can share with you what I concluded from the movie.

Hard work, smart work, dedication, determination, persistence, perseverance, faith, self discipline, hope- It all is definitely required to achieve success, I agree, but what is the most important of it all is passion for the commitment. You might want something in life, well who doesn’t? But wanting something is soo soo different from working for ‘it’ and working for ‘it’ is soo far away from wanting ‘it’ for you might not work for something you truly want, for God knows whatever reasons or even you know, and vice versa. And even when you do both, it is different from wanting just ‘it’. When you are at this stage when you want just ‘it’ in your life, when the ‘it’ doesn’t let you be, it is when your whole being works for ‘it’.

Have you ever tried faking been sick? Come on, we all did that when we were kids. They teach it at home. If you cry, you get candy. It’s just a better version, You cry, just lie and then school bye bye. So, do you remember how hard we worked to fake being sick. We had a solution to every possible obstacle between us and that god-damn sick leave. And what’s the highlight is, no one wanted us to be at home. It was just us. And so we had every stone turned and every possibility thought-out. Just think, if all of our activities had the same passion, what could have happened? How difficult do you think it is for you to develop a passion towards any activity? Well, this isn’t something I am answering for you. You got to do this yourselves. But a hint, “IT AIN’T IMPOSSIBLE. DIFFICULT, CERTAINLY, BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE”. Why difficult? you ask. Well, your heart there won’t love everything you’re doing at all times, but, it needs to be done, right?

That being said, it isn’t possible ffor verything you do. Mot everythig is meant for you. but everythinng is posssible

NO ONE IS BORN TO DO ANYTHING. IT IS WWHAAT YOU WANT TO DO. what you choose to ddo that becomes your ddestiny

If you think I was bron to be a singger, you might =be wrong but that never means i caan’r be one.

When your mind and soul aligns to claim that one destiny that awaits just you, it doesn’t let anything come in your way. You can, now, proudly shout out to the whole world- “Give me your best and I shall give you mine.” This is the first

Obstacles sbke rste mei ate haai. Make wining better.

Lost in the device

Instead of locking yourself in a piece of glass,

Look around dear friend,

There is lot of space.

You forget to count the starts every night,

You forget to enjoy the smell of rain,

And the warmth of the sunshine.

Missing out true friendships,

Ignoring your curious mind,

You are struck in a piece of silicon.

Go outside and enjoy mother nature,

She will teach you lessons,

And bring back the humanity in you,

It’s worth a try.

This is a poem which encourages the readers to go outside and explore the beauties of mother nature instead of wasting their time on social media/phones. Though there are a lot of advantages of using mobile phone, the risks are bizarre.

  • Addiction
  • Social comparison
  • Reduced attention
  • Personal data-stealing and abusing of information
  • Cyber-bullying
  • Isolation

We should make proper use of these devices but not get lost in them.

HER

She walked down the alleyway

Her hair was all Grey

Her warm brown eyes twinkling like a star

Her eyesight was blur

But she saw what most couldn’t

She heard how the growling stomach of the homeless man stopped when he eat a square meal

She heard the bird’s thirst quench as it drank fresh water from the pot

But who was there to give her a warm meal when she was starving?

Who was there to satisfy her thirst when her throat was all dry

“When I grow up and get a job, I’ll treat you like a queen” he said

I’ll be waiting for you son she whispered weakly to herself

As she closed her eyes which used to shine

The man sat there waiting for food as the bird flew away searching for water

Photo by Bhavyata Nimavat on Pexels.com