Deewara is a classic Bollywood film directed by Yash Chopra, released in 1972. The movie stars Sharmila Tagore, Rajesh Khanna, and Hema Malini in lead roles.
Plot
The story revolves around two brothers, Vijay (Rajesh Khanna) and Ravi (Randhir Kapoor), who are separated during their childhood. Vijay grows up to become a smuggler, while Ravi becomes a police officer. Their paths cross when Ravi is assigned to capture Vijay.
Complications arise when Vijay falls in love with Ravi’s love interest, Radha (Hema Malini). Meanwhile, Vijay’s past catches up with him, threatening to destroy his relationships and future.
Themes
Deewara explores themes of:
Family and separation
Love and sacrifice
Crime and redemption
Identity and self-discovery
Music
The film’s soundtrack, composed by R.D. Burman, features iconic songs like:
“Koi Hotaa Jisko Apna”
“Yadoon Ki Barat”
“Deewana Hua Badal”
Awards and Legacy
Deewara was a commercial success and received critical acclaim. It won several awards, including:
Filmfare Best Supporting Actor Award (Randhir Kapoor)
Filmfare Best Story Award (Salim-Javed)
Deewara is considered one of Yash Chopra’s best works and a landmark film in Indian cinema.
Cast
Rajesh Khanna as Vijay
Hema Malini as Radha
Sharmila Tagore as Chanda
Randhir Kapoor as Ravi
Balraj Sahni as Advocate
Nirupa Roy as Mother
Production
Director: Yash Chopra
Producer: Gulshan Rai
Screenplay: Salim-Javed
Cinematography: Kay Gee
Music: R.D. Burman
Release
Deewara was released on November 25, 1972, and ran for over 50 weeks, becoming a golden jubilee hit.
Impact
Deewara’s success solidified Rajesh Khanna’s status as a Bollywood superstar and established Yash Chopra as a prominent director. The film’s themes and music continue to influence Indian cinema.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is a premier and historic university located in Varanasi, India. Founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in India.
Key Features of BHU:
Multi-disciplinary education: BHU offers courses in various fields, including arts, science, commerce, engineering, medicine, law, and more.
Research centers: BHU has several research centers focused on various areas of study.
International recognition: BHU is recognized globally for its academic excellence.
Experienced faculty: BHU boasts highly qualified and experienced teachers.
Modern facilities: BHU has state-of-the-art infrastructure, including libraries, computer centers, sports complexes, and more.
New Education Policy (NEP) 2020: A Revolutionary Reforms in Indian Education System
The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, approved by the Union Cabinet on July 29, 2020, aims to transform India’s education system, making it more inclusive, equitable, and vibrant. This comprehensive policy replaces the 34-year-old National Policy on Education (NPE), 1986.
Key Objectives:
Universalization of education from pre-school to secondary level.
Promoting equity, inclusivity, and social justice.
Enhancing quality, relevance, and innovation in education.
Integrating technology to improve learning outcomes.
Fostering research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Major Reforms:
School Education:
5+3+3+4 Structure: Replacing the existing 10+2 structure with a new framework:
Foundational Stage (Age 3-8): 5 years of pre-primary and primary education.
Preparatory Stage (Age 8-11): 3 years of middle school.
Middle Stage (Age 11-14): 3 years of secondary school.
Secondary Stage (Age 14-18): 4 years of high school.
No Rigid Separation: Between arts, sciences, and vocational streams.
Multiple Entry/Exit Points: Allowing students to exit and re-enter the education system.
Higher Education:
Multidisciplinary Education: Encouraging institutions to offer diverse programs.
Credit Transfer: Allowing students to transfer credits between institutions.
Autonomy: Granting more autonomy to institutions for innovation and research.
Online and Distance Learning: Expanding online and distance learning opportunities.
Vocational Education:
Integration with School Education: Introducing vocational courses from Class 6.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborating with industries for apprenticeships and training.
Teacher Training and Development:
Continuous Professional Development: Mandatory training for teachers.
Inclusive Education: Ensuring education for all, including differently-abled students.
Scholarships: Increasing scholarships for disadvantaged groups.
Gender Equality: Promoting gender equality in education.
Implementation:
The NEP 2020 will be implemented in phases, with the following timelines:
Short-term (2020-2025): Implementation of structural reforms.
Medium-term (2025-2030): Focus on quality and innovation.
Long-term (2030-2040): Achieving global standards in education.
The New Education Policy 2020 has the potential to revolutionize India’s education system, making it more inclusive, equitable, and relevant to the 21st century.
The International Conference on Motherhood Melodies brought together scholars, writers, and practitioners from diverse fields to explore the intricate connections between motherhood and literature. Focusing on the theme “A Global Harmony of Literary Resonance,” this conference aimed to illuminate how literary expressions across cultures reflect and shape maternal experiences, emotions, and narratives.
Panels and Sessions
The conference included a variety of panels and breakout sessions that engaged participants in critical discussions and interactive workshops. Notable topics included:
The Role of Memory in Maternal Narratives: Examining how personal and collective memories shape the portrayal of motherhood in literature.
Motherhood and Identity: Investigating the intersection of maternal identities with cultural, racial, and socio-economic factors in literary works.
The Aesthetic of Care: Exploring how literature represents caregiving as a form of art and emotional labor.
Highlights of the Conference
Interactive Workshops: Attendees participated in workshops that focused on creative writing, storytelling, and the use of narrative techniques to express maternal experiences.
Poster Presentations: Emerging scholars showcased their research through poster presentations, allowing for rich dialogue and networking opportunities.
Cultural Performances: The conference featured performances that celebrated maternal themes through poetry, music, and dance, reinforcing the idea of motherhood as a universal melody.
Conclusion
The International Conference on Motherhood Melodies fostered an environment of intellectual exchange and collaboration. Participants left with a deeper understanding of how literature resonates with the myriad experiences of motherhood, transcending cultural boundaries and inspiring future research.
Acknowledgments
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all speakers, participants, and volunteers who contributed to the success of this conference. Special thanks to the organizing committee at Christ Nagar College and the IQAC for their unwavering support and dedication.
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya (1916–1968) was an Indian politician, philosopher, economist, and thinker, who played a significant role in shaping the political and ideological framework of modern India. He was a key leader in the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (the precursor to the Bharatiya Janata Party, or BJP) and is best known for his formulation of the concept of “Integral Humanism”—a philosophy that sought to define India’s political and socio-economic direction post-independence.
Early Life and Education
Deendayal Upadhyaya was born on September 25, 1916, in the small town of Chandrabhan (now renamed Deendayal Dham) in Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh. His early life was marked by tragedy, as he lost his parents at a young age, and he was raised by his maternal uncle. Despite financial hardships, Upadhyaya was an excellent student, excelling academically. He attended high school in Sikar, Rajasthan, where he earned a scholarship, and later completed his graduation from Sanatan Dharma College, Kanpur. He pursued further studies at St. John’s College, Agra.
However, despite excelling academically, Upadhyaya was drawn towards nationalist politics and social work, influenced by the ideas of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist volunteer organization that focused on nation-building and social welfare.
Political Career
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s formal political journey began when he joined the RSS in the late 1930s. Deeply committed to the cause of Hindutva (Hindu nationalism), he worked as a full-time “pracharak” (propagator) for the RSS. His dedication to nationalist ideals was evident as he worked tirelessly to expand the influence of the organization in different parts of India.
In 1951, when Syama Prasad Mookerjee founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), Deendayal Upadhyaya was one of its key founding members. He became the party’s General Secretary, a post he held for nearly two decades, contributing to the growth of the party. He was instrumental in defining the ideological framework of the Jana Sangh, emphasizing a vision of India rooted in its indigenous culture, values, and self-reliance.
Integral Humanism
The most important contribution of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya to Indian political thought is his doctrine of “Integral Humanism” (Ekatma Manav Darshan). Delivered as a series of lectures in 1965, Integral Humanism was proposed as an alternative to both Western capitalism and socialism. According to Upadhyaya, both these systems were incompatible with Indian culture and failed to meet the holistic needs of human beings.
Core principles of Integral Humanism:
Holistic Development of Human Beings: Upadhyaya believed that human development must address both material and spiritual needs. Western ideologies focused too much on material prosperity, neglecting the spiritual and cultural aspects of human life.
Socio-Economic Model Based on Indian Traditions: Upadhyaya advocated for an economic model rooted in Indian values, emphasizing decentralized governance and self-reliance (Swadeshi). He was against the blind adoption of Western economic policies and called for a system that balanced economic growth with ethical living.
Harmony between Individual and Society: He stressed that individual aspirations should align with the well-being of society as a whole. He argued for a balance between individual rights and societal duties, avoiding both excessive state control and extreme individualism.
Focus on Indigenous Solutions: Upadhyaya’s vision was fundamentally based on the cultural and spiritual ethos of India. He believed that India must evolve a political and economic system that is not an imitation of the West but instead arises from its own traditions, culture, and spiritual heritage.
Integral Humanism continues to serve as the ideological foundation of the BJP today, which sees it as a guiding principle for national development and governance.
Political Leadership and Influence
Deendayal Upadhyaya’s leadership in the Bharatiya Jana Sangh was marked by his focus on organizational discipline and ideological clarity. Although he was not a mass leader like some of his contemporaries, his influence lay in his intellectual contributions and behind-the-scenes work in strengthening the party structure. He became the President of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1967, but his tenure was tragically short-lived due to his untimely death.
Despite the challenges faced by the Jana Sangh in competing with larger political entities like the Congress, Upadhyaya’s vision helped solidify the party’s role as the voice of Hindu nationalism and cultural conservatism in Indian politics. His emphasis on a politics of ethics, discipline, and indigenous values resonated with many, laying the groundwork for the later rise of the BJP.
Mysterious Death
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s life was cut short under mysterious circumstances. On February 11, 1968, his body was found near the railway tracks in Mughal Sarai (now Deendayal Upadhyaya Junction) under suspicious circumstances. The circumstances of his death remain unclear to this day, leading to various theories and speculations. His untimely death was a great loss to Indian politics, as many believe he had much more to offer in terms of thought leadership and political guidance.
Legacy
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s legacy lives on through the political ideology he helped shape. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which emerged from the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, regards him as a key figure in its ideological foundation. His thoughts on Integral Humanism continue to influence Indian politics, particularly in the realm of governance, self-reliance, and national identity.
Several institutions, programs, and initiatives have been named in his honor, reflecting the continued relevance of his ideas. The government of India, especially under the leadership of BJP, has launched numerous schemes bearing his name, including Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana (for poverty alleviation) and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (for rural employment).
Conclusion
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya was a thinker and politician who left an indelible mark on Indian political thought through his advocacy of a distinctive Indian philosophy, Integral Humanism. His ideas continue to inspire contemporary political discourse in India, especially within the Hindutva movement and the broader framework of Indian governance. His focus on the integration of material and spiritual development, as well as the promotion of an indigenous economic and political system, makes him a key figure in the intellectual history of modern India.
NICDC Logistics Data Services Ltd. (NLDSL) announces the launch of Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) Hackathon 2.0, a competitive event aimed at fostering innovation and developing digital solutions to tackle pressing challenges in the logistics industry. The Hackathon was officially launched at an event held under the chairmanship of Shri Rajeev Singh Thakur, Additional Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), at Vanijya Bhawan.
The launch event witnessed more than 1800 attendees joining the kick-off physically and virtually, reflecting widespread industry interest in the initiative. Hackathon 2.0 marks a significant step in leveraging innovation and technology to reshape and streamline India’s logistics and supply chain sector.
Building on the success of ULIP Hackathon 1.0, which resulted in the development of cutting-edge solutions, Hackathon 2.0 invites developers, start-ups, and industry players to come together once again. The focus of this year’s hackathon is on addressing key logistics challenges such as sustainability, complex supply chain processes, unified documentation, andmultimodal logistics optimization.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajeev Singh Thakur, said, “We are excited to launch ULIP Hackathon 2.0, an initiative that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. With the tremendous success of Hackathon 1.0, we are confident that this year’s event will generate even more innovative solutions to shape the future of India’s logistics ecosystem.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to transforming the logistics sector, NLDSL also announced the launch of the Track Your Transport (TYT) application powered by ULIP. This app is designed to empower small-scale transporters and traders by addressing various facets of logistics management, from providing tracking of cargo via all modes to verification of vehicles and drivers. TYT eliminates the need for heavy IT infrastructure investments, making it a cost-effective and user-friendly tool for the unorganized sector.
Shri Rajat Kumar Saini, CEO & MD, NICDC and Chairman, NLDSL highlighted that the TYT app is a key milestone in their efforts to bring digital empowerment to small traders and transporters. He stated, “The app provides the tools necessary to enhance operational efficiency and visibility, ensuring that small players can compete on a level playing field with the rest of the industry.”
Track Your Transport app can be accessed via the web at http://www.trackyourtransport.in or downloaded through Android, iOS, and Digital India App Stores.
About ULIP:
ULIP is a digital gateway that allows industry players to access logistics-related datasets from various Government systems through API-based integration. Currently, the platform integrates with 37 systems from 10 ministries via 118 APIs, covering over 1800 data fields. Private sector participation in ULIP has been instrumental in amplifying its impact, with over 1000 companies registered on the ULIP portal (www.goulip.in). Additionally, these companies have developed over 100 applications, leading to more than 54 crore API transactions.
About NLDSL:
NICDC Logistics Data Services Ltd. (NLDSL) has been at the forefront of transforming India’s logistics sector through its innovative solutions like Logistics Data Bank (LDB) and ULIP. By leveraging advanced technology, NLDSL has enhanced efficiency, transparency, and digitization within the industry.
The company was established on December 30, 2015, with the primary objective of harnessing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to enhance efficiency in the Indian logistics sector. It is a joint venture between Government of India represented by National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT) and Japanese IT major NEC Corporation.
Satyanarayanamma’s Sanitation Success in Ponnapalli
A fisherwoman’s efforts transformed her community in line with Swachh Bharat’s vision
(Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs)
September 24, 2024
In the heart of Narsapur town, Andhra Pradesh, lies Ponnapalli ward, a community once defined
by vulnerability and the prevalence of open defecation. A large slum population with limited
access to basic sanitation services had accepted open defecation as the norm. Yet, amidst this
environment, one woman, Satyanarayanamma, refused to accept the status quo. A fisherwoman
and mother of two, Satyanarayanamma, who is differently abled due to polio, became a force
of change in her community. Her personal experience with the illness made her deeply aware
of the importance of sanitation, driving her to make a difference not only for her family but for
the entire ward.
Satyanarayanamma’s journey
started when she joined the
Gender Forum, a local NGO
dedicated to raising awareness
about sanitation and hygiene
among women.
Alongside
other Forum members, she led
discussions on menstrual
hygiene, toilet usage, and
hand washing, working
tirelessly to engage her
neighbours in the battle for a
cleaner, healthier
environment. Initially, it was
very difficult to convince the
local community to adopt safe
sanitation practices and
maintain personal hygiene.
However, with local women
like Satyanarayanamma
leading the charge, the effort
slowly began to gain
momentum. Their sanitation audits and discussions on faecal sludge management and genderfriendly services helped address specific concerns, empowering the community to take charge.
Thanks to their tireless work, Ponnapalli ward achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, a
milestone for the town and an enduring testament to the power of grassroots mobilization.
This transformation coincides with the national Swabhav Swachhata Sanskaar Swachhata
(4S) campaign, launched to mark the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission. Running
from September 17 to October 2, 2024, the campaign highlights India’s ongoing efforts to foster
a culture of cleanliness and sanitation, echoing the goals of the annual Swachhata Hi Seva
movement. As the country builds up to Swachh Bharat Diwas on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth
anniversary, the stories of communities like Ponnapalli stand as powerful symbols of what can
be achieved when citizens unite for a common cause. The 4S campaign is not just about
maintaining cleanliness but instilling a sense of responsibility and pride in sanitation practices,
much like what Satyanarayanamma and her fellow women achieved in their ward.
The broader impact of the Swachh Bharat Mission is evident in its tiered achievements. As of
September 24, 2024, 4,576 cities across India are Open Defecation Free (ODF), meaning they
have successfully eliminated the practice of open defecation. Additionally, 3,913 cities have
achieved ODF+ status, indicating not only the elimination of open defecation but also sustained
toilet usage and proper maintenance of public and community toilets. Furthermore, 1,429 cities
have reached ODF++ status, showcasing advanced management of faecal sludge and septage,
ensuring efficient waste treatment.
In rural areas, the mission has also made significant strides, with 5,54,150 villages achieving
ODF Plus status, which indicates improved sanitation facilities and practices. Among these,
3,00,368 villages have been recognized as ODF Plus Model Villages, setting benchmarks for
others. Additionally, 1,30,238 villages have been verified as ODF Plus Model Verified Villages,
ensuring that they meet the stringent criteria for sustainable sanitation practices.
These numbers are more than just statistics; they represent lives transformed, healthier
communities, and the collective determination of individuals like Satyanarayanamma. Her
work in Ponnapalli ward mirrors the mission’s vision of a cleaner, healthier India, a vision that
continues to inspire change across the nation.
As the Swachh Bharat Mission enters its second decade, the success of the 4S campaign
promises to build on these achievements, ensuring that communities like Ponnapalli are not
just ODF but also equipped with the knowledge and resources to maintain their cleanliness and
hygiene for generations to come. Behind these impressive statistics are stories like
Satyanarayanamma’s—individual efforts that ignite collective action. The Swachh Bharat
Mission didn’t just build toilets; it reshaped mindsets. Satyanarayanamma’s journey shows that
true transformation goes beyond infrastructure—it’s about changing how people perceive and
practice sanitation. Her story is a reminder that sustainable change happens when communities
take ownership, fostering not only cleanliness but also a lasting sense of responsibility for their
health and environment.
References:
• https://sbmurban.org/storage/app/media/stories-of-change.pdf
• https://sbmurban.org/
• https://sbm.gov.in/sbmgdashboard/statesdashboard.aspx
Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Sheetal Angral/ Ritu Kataria/ Saurabh Kalia
Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated a one-day workshop on the Institutional Development Plan for Higher Education Institutes. He also released the UGC Compendium of Regulations (1957-2023) as a single, accessible & reliable source of all UGC rules. Shri Sanjay Murthy, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education; Dr. N.S. Kalsi, Former Chairman, NCVET and Chairman of the Committee working on formulating the IDP Guidelines; Shri M. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman, UGC; Vice-Chancellors, Nodal Officers, and other dignitaries were also present at the event.
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, while addressing the audience said the Higher education Institutes of the country will play a crucial role in realising the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi of Viksit Bharat by embracing the core values and spirit of NEP 2020.
He also talked about the role of the HEIs in redefining the purpose and structure of education, empowering youth and making them future-ready, doubling the gross enrolment ratio, bringing a vast majority of the population under the higher education net, effectively utilising demographic advantage, achieving academic, research & innovation excellence and also the way forward for transforming 5000 HEIs into centres-of-excellence through holistic and inclusive approaches.
Shri Pradhan also said that education will propel India from being a consuming economy to becoming a producing economy. The institutional development plan should focus on enhancing the competencies of our vast demography, facilitating learner-centric and multidisciplinary education, integrating Bharatiya Bhasha in higher learning, prioritising innovation, entrepreneurship and job-creation as an outcome, capacity building of teachers and achieving the global standard of research & development, he added.
He also said that education must address 21st-century aspirations and create solutions for local and global challenges. The world looks at India’s talent pool for new models and solutions to challenges of our age, he stated He exhorted the academic fraternity to work in a focused and time-bound manner to reinvent their institutions, transforming the higher educational landscape and achieving national priorities.
Speaking on the relevance and importance of the workshop Shri K. Sanjay Murthy elaborated on the ambitious plan the Ministry of Education had presented to the Prime Minister as part of the social group with the vision for the next twenty-five years. Talent and competency would be needed to back up the tremendous work that would take place and the institutions must rise to the demand to meet the talent requirements, he added. He also emphasized the Future of Work and that the IDP must focus on enhancing the quality of the institutes. Introduction of the IDP will also help the institutes to be at par with the universities of the world, he said.
About the Workshop:
The workshop on Institutional Development Plan (IDP) brings together higher education institutions to discuss strategies for institutional growth and development. The compendium will serve as a valuable resource for institutions as they develop and implement their IDP. Over 170 representatives from HEIs across India are participating in this workshop. Aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the IDP provides institutions with a clear roadmap to develop their vision, mission and goals for a future-ready education system.
Through the two thematic sessions, the participants will have the opportunity to learn about governance enablers, financial planning and management, human resources and supportive-facilitative enablers, networking and collaboration enablers, physical enablers, digital enablers, and research and intellectual property enablers, innovative funding models, and curriculum development. Renowned experts from industry, academia, and government will share their insights and experiences on these critical areas.
In each session, different universities will share their best practices for creating their IDP. In a separate Q&A session, Chairman UGC, Former Chairman, NCVET and the speakers from the Panels will address the queries of the participants.
About UGC Compendium:
To provide a single source of reference to all the stakeholders, UGC has prepared a Compendium of all UGC Regulations, Rules and Notifications from 1957-2023. The compendium includes 15 Rules, 87 Regulations, and 28 Notifications covering a wide range of topics, including inspection, the fitness of institutions for grants, return of information, budget and accounts, establishments, affiliation, autonomy, accreditation, admission & fees, specification of degrees, and other miscellaneous matters. The compendium provides a one-stop reference for all regulatory requirements, ensuring that institutions can easily access and comply with UGC guidelines. This is expected to streamline operations and support informed decision-making, creating an environment of compliance and best practices. This compendium having more than 1100 pages, is available in the form of a PDF and e-book on the UGC website.
About IDP:
Institutional Development Plan (IDP) Guidelines were launched by UGC on 6th February 2024. The IDP Guidelines will help institutions make a strategic Institutional Development Plan with the joint participation of Board members, institutional leaders, faculty, students and staff based on which institutions will develop initiatives, assess their progress, and reach the goals set therein.
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Applications will be invited from young, passionate individuals with a commitment to social change. Selection will be based on academic merit, leadership potential, and a deep understanding of Gandhian philosophy.
About the Fellowship
Total number of Fellowships: Five (05)
Apply on or before October 5, 2024, 11:59 pm.
A nominal stipend will be paid to selected fellows every month (not more than 20,000/- Rs. per month)
Initially, the Fellowship will be offered for three months. Subsequently, extension may be granted (up to maximum two years) based on performance and recommendation of the competent authority.
Concept Note
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) is a national memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Hon’ble Prime Minister of India is its Chairman. The overarching goal of the Samiti is to take forward the philosophy and thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi to all cross-section of the society. The Samiti has a large number of programmes reaching out to different stakeholders. In line with this, GSDS is aiming to develop a comprehensive database of Senior Gandhians, Gandhian social workers at grass-root level and institutes/organisations/chairs devoted to Gandhian philosophy. This would facilitate in connecting with like-minded individuals and organizations thereby promoting collaboration for sustainable social impact along Gandhian line. To accomplish the aforesaid task GSDS hereby launches ‘Gandhi Fellowship’. The primary objective of the fellowship is to inspire and empower the youth to understand and contribute to Gandhian principles by immersing them in the activities of various Gandhians and like-minded organizations.
Under this fellowship programme, the selected fellows will be entrusted with the task of making extensive tour and fieldwork in order to collect the data of Senior Gandhians as well as Gandhian organisations.
Aims and Objectives of the Fellowship Programme:
Fellows will travel to different parts of the country, visiting various Gandhian and like-minded organizations. During their visits, they will collect valuable data on organizational structures, activities, and impact of such organisations in prescribed format
Fellows will prepare a comprehensive pan-Indian database of Gandhian Institutes/Senior Gandhians.
Fellows will also identify and procure the archival material pertaining to Mahatma Gandhi from various Gandhian Institutes.
Fellows will simultaneously explore the possibilities of collaboration of other Gandhian institutes with GSDS.
Fellows will document their experiences through written reports, audio-visual content, and other mediums, creating a comprehensive repository of information on the organizations visited.
Terms and Conditions of the Fellowship Programme:
Eligibility: This Fellowship programme is open to students who have completed post-graduation, preferably in subjects belonging to Humanities and Social Sciences.
Preference will be given to candidates pursuing research degree or having experience in fieldwork.
Candidates having knowledge of more than one Indian language besides English will be given weightage.
Period: Initially, the Fellowship will be offered for three months. Subsequently, extension may be granted (up to maximum two years) based on performance and recommendation of the competent authority.
Honorarium: A nominal stipend will be paid to selected fellows every month (not more than 20,000/- Rs. per month).
GSDS will bear the TA/DA of the selected fellows during fieldwork.
Experience Certificate: A certificate regarding successful completion of Fellowship will be issued to each of the Fellows after the end of the fellowship tenure.
Some meritorious candidates will additionally be given ‘Award of Excellence’ for their performance.
Procedure of Selection:
Applicants have to submit the attached application form.
A one-page note on why the applicant is motivated to undertake this fellowship with GSDS.
A one-page note on their understanding of Gandhian philosophy and familiarity with Gandhian organisations.
The above details have to be mailed to the Director, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti at: 2010gsds@gmail.com on or before October 5, 2024, 11:59 pm.
The shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interaction with a Selection Committee under the chairmanship of the Director.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) is going to conduct a ‘6 Days Basic Training Programme in Bharatiya Jnana Parampara (IKS)’ for the faculty members as well as regular research scholars from Higher Educational Institutions (HEls) across the country.
Highlighting that the IKS is in keeping with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the UGC notification states, “The National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020 boldly places Bharatiya Jnana Parampara (Indian Knowledge Systems) at the heart of Indian education. It champions our cultural roots, ignites pride in our heritage-both ancient and modern-and envisions an educational landscape deeply steeped in Indian ethos. To breathe life into this vision, the NEP advocates for curricula and teaching methods firmly rooted in the Indian context. Nationwide, an ambitious training program equips faculty members with the tools to seamlessly integrate Indian Knowledge Systems into their teaching practices. Simultaneously, it empowers research scholars to rejuvenate Indian scientific knowledge through a transformed mindset. With this aim, UGC is going to organize ‘6 Days Basic Training Programme in Bharatiya Jnana Parampara (IKS)’ for the Faculty Members as well as Regular Research Scholars from HEls across the country.”
HEls (universities/colleges) that are keen may submit the application for conducting the training programme.
The last date for submission of application for conducting the training programme is October 2, 2024.
Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment (SJE), Dr. Virendra Kumar will be the Chief Guest for the Sign Language Day-2024 celebrations tomorrow, at Bhim Hall, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, New Delhi. MoS (SJE), Shri B.L.Verma, will be the Guest of Honour on the occasion.
The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), New Delhi, under the aegis of Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) [DEPwD], Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, will be organising the event.
The theme of this year Sign Language Day-2024 is ‘Sign up for Sign Language Rights’. The world will once again highlight the unity generated by sign languages. World leaders and other government officials are invited to strive towards a better implementation of the Rights of Person with Disabilities at the national level through the linguistic human rights of deaf people; And, to Sign up for sign language rights by working with our local and national associations to announce the achievement of a concrete goal for deaf communities on Sign Language day.
During the event, the following Indian Sign Language (ISL) terms and Videos will be launched:
Launch of 2500 terms in Indian Sign Language: To expand the existing ISL dictionary, ISLRTC has collaborated with 4 organizations working in the field and jointly developed the 2500 terms in Indian Sign Language. The organizations are YUNIKEE, Hyderabad for 1000 terms, India Signing Hands, Mumbai for 500 terms, Bridge Connectivity Solutions, Delhi for 500 terms and Anuprayaas, Mohali for 500 terms. The 2500 terms covers the various school subjects such as mathematics, science, language, geography and higher education areas such as philosophy, linguistics, computer science, etc., and sports, infrastructure, accessibility, etc.
Launch of 100 concept videos inISL: ISLRTC in collaboration with YUNIKEE developed 100 concept videos in Indian Sign Language for Hearing Impaired children of class 6th, covering various school subjects such as mathematics, science, social science and language. The special features of concepts videos are detailed explanation in ISL to develop concept clarity, graphical images to promote learning, Audio and subtitles to promote inclusive learning and illustration and examples to improve learning outcomes and academic achievements.
Launch of ISL dictionary in 10 languages: To promote accessibility, the ISL dictionary will be made available in 10 Regional Languages.
Launch of Educational Animated Videos in ISL: To develop morals values and new learning experience among hearing impaired children and to promote inclusive learning environment.
Launch of Deaf Role Model Videos in ISL: To create inspiration, motivation, sense of purpose, moral values and guidance among hearing impaired children.
The Centre conducted 7th Indian Sign Language Competition, 2024 – a national-level competition held for students with hearing disabilities. The students have showcased their creativity and knowledge by participating in the competition. All the winners of the 7th ISL competition will be distributed trophy and certificate during the Sign Language Day 2024 programme.
The ISLRTC celebrates the occasion every year ever since the United Nations declared 23rd September as the International Day of Sign Languages. DEPwD and ISLRTC are making all the possible efforts to bring more citizens, stakeholders, service-providing agencies, schools for deaf, NGOs, activists, deaf leaders, educators, researchers etc. together into the fold of Sign Language Day, in order to create positive awareness about ISL among all sections of our society.
The Day also reminds us of the need and importance of preserving sign languages as a part of linguistic and cultural diversity. All the professionals, parents of deaf, deaf students and institutions working in the field of Indian Sign Language, deaf education and differently-abled people from all walks of life are important target groups to rope into the Sign Language Day celebration.
Dignitaries gracing the occasion would include Shri Rajesh Aggrawal, Secretary, DEPwD; Dr. Sharanjeet Kaur, Chairperson, RCI; Shri Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary, DEPwD; and, Dr. Jitendra Sharma, Director, ISLRTC. Representatives from National Association of Deaf, All India Federation of Deaf Women and Indore Deaf Bilingual Academy and other representatives of the Deaf Community will also present on the occasion.
The activities proposed under Nagar Van Yojana during the first 100 days of the Government was to approve 100 Nagar Vans. With the collective effort of the Central and Sate/UT Governments, this target has been achieved and surpassed, with 111 Nagar Vans being sanctioned within the 100 days. These 111 Nagar Vans are spread across 6 States and 1 UT of the country.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India had launched revised Nagar Van Yojana (NVY) in 2020 in an effort to enhance the urban greenery for improving the quality of life and increasing social cohesion in cities. These Nagar Vans will not only be vital environmental resources but also be a space for recreation, environment education, biodiversity conservation and a tool for adaptation towards climate change making the cities climate resilient.
The scheme provides financial assistance of Rs. 4 lakh per hectare for the creation and maintenance of these urban forests, encouraging the involvement of citizens, students, and other stakeholders in the creation and management of these green spaces. Nagar Van areas range from a minimum of 10 ha to 50 ha. The scheme covers all cities with Municipal Corporations, Municipalities and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). Emphasis is on biodiversity, Planting fruit-bearing, medicinal, and native species to attract wildlife and promote ecological balance. Community participation is central, with opportunities for public engagement through tree planting, educational programs, and sustainable management. Each Nagar Van must have at least two-thirds of its area under tree cover and will feature components like Biodiversity Parks, Smriti Vans, Butterfly Conservatories, and Herbal Gardens and now Matri Van created under Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam.
Presently, the Nagar Van Yojana aims to develop 1000 Nagar Vans by the year 2027 with the financial support of National Fund of National Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (National CAMPA). This initiative will help in protecting forest land within and around urban centers from degradation and encroachment and will also address environmental concerns such as air pollution, urban heat islands, the loss of biodiversity, degradation of habitat etc.
Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, a special country wide Tree Plantation campaign has been launched by Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi on World Environment Day on 5th June 2024. Drawing a parallel between the nurturing of nature by Mother Earth and human lives by our mothers, Prime Minister extorted people across the world to plant a tree as a mark of love, respect and honour for their mother also take a pledge for protecting trees and mother earth.
This initiative not only pays tribute to maternal figures but also instills a culture of tree planting among individuals and communities. The campaign emphasizes the dual purpose of environmental stewardship and personal gratitude, symbolizing the nurturing role of both trees and mothers in our lives. The campaign aims at involving everyone in halting and reversing land degradation, building draught resistance and preventing desertification. Under this mass tree plantation special campaign, it is targeted to plant 80 crore trees this year by September end and 140 crores by next year March end. Provision has been made on MeriLiFE portal for uploading details of plantation done by any individual or institution or organization private or government and tracking plantation efforts. More than 75 crore saplings have been planted by now under this campaign and detailed information has been uploaded on MeriLiFE portal.
A Tree Plantation drive was organized on 17th of September, 2024 under Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam in newly approved Nagar Vans in various cities to create Matri Van. Through the active participation of citizens, government agencies, and private entities in the citizen driven special campaign “Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam”, the aim of transforming cities into eco-friendly spaces that promote sustainability and well-being is sought to be achieved.
The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) successfully concluded the Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0 campaign on September 21st, 2024, facilitating beach cleanup drives at more than 80 locations across the country’s coasts, removing more than 60 tons of waste, including plastic, metal, cloth, rubber, and paper and wood debris. The Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0 campaign is aligned with the Government of India’s ongoing Swachhata Hi Seva initiative under the Swachh Bharat Mission envisioned by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. The event witnessed widespread voluntary public participation, generating mass enthusiasm and awareness. The key highlights of MoES Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0 included the participation of the public, several students, NGOs, and community groups at various locations across the country’s coastline.
Dr M Ravichandran, Secretary, MoES, led the Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0 campaign with senior officials and staff of MoES and its institutes. Her Excellency Ms. May-Elin Steiner, Norwegian Ambassador to India, joined the Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0 beach cleanup drive at Thiruvanmiyur Beach in Chennai. “The growing popularity and success of Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar, year on year, catalyses ongoing and future efforts to reduce marine pollution. It is a testament to the power of mass participation and awareness, especially of local communities, to promote sustainable coastal practices”, said Dr Ravichandran.
The Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar campaign, launched in 2022, with successful editions in 2022 and 2023, is a flagship initiative of the MoES aimed at raising awareness about marine pollution, conserving coastal areas, and promoting cleanliness and sustainable practices to protect oceans and preserve marine ecosystems. It also marks the observance of the International Coastal Cleanup Day. The event is a step towards reducing the impact of marine debris on coastal biodiversity. The event inspires the community to adopt eco-friendly habits and become marine conservation advocates by engaging citizens across all age groups.
Dr M Ravichadran, Secretary, MoES, led the Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0. He was joined by Ms May-Elin Steiner, Norwegian Ambassador to India, with senior officials and staff of MoES, volunteers including students, NGOs, and the public at Thiruvanmiyur beach in Chennai.
Glimpses of beach cleanup drives at various locations across India’s coasts as part of Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar 3.0 campaign.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will formally inaugurate Sainik School, Jaipur in Rajasthan on September 23, 2024. It is part of the Government’s vision to set-up 100 new Sainik Schools across the country in partnership with NGOs, state governments and private schools. These new schools will be apart from the existing 33 Sainik Schools already functioning under the erstwhile pattern.
Ministry of Defence has accorded approval to 45 new Sainik Schools under the partnership mode. These new schools, besides their affiliation to respective education boards, will function under the aegis of Sainik Schools Society and follow the Rules & Regulations. In addition to their regular affiliated board curriculum, they will impart education of Academic PLUS curriculum to the students of Sainik School pattern.
In September 2023, Sainik Schools Society had signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Shri Bhawani Niketan Shiksha Samiti for the establishment of a new Sainik School at Shri Bhawani Niketan Public School, Jaipur. The school commenced functioning in the present academic year.
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