The Girl on the Train – A bewildering tale

 

                                                                       (Photo: Twitter)

The Girl on the train is the story of Rachel Watson’s life, post-divorce. She is an alcoholic who rides on a train aimlessly. On her way, she travels past an old house where she and her then-husband, Tom used to live. However, there is one house that she waits to see each day. She watches Megan in her seemingly perfect relationship with her husband. Then one day Rachel sees Megan cheating on her husband. So, she decides to communicate with her. However, she has a blackout and is awaken with bruises in her apartment. Soon she learns that Megan is missing and detective Rilly interrogates her since she was seen wandering in the area.

The language used in this book is simple, understandable, and subtle which makes the readers get interested in reading the book. The themes of the novel are that of gaslighting, manipulation through questioning or validating a person’s sanity as the three women are abused by the men in their lives. It also deals with a very strong theme that some things are not always what they seem to be. In some respect, the novel is a connectional mystery.

Rachel Watson is the titular girl on the train and novel’s protagonist. She is complicated and an invaluable character. She is a divorced and deeply depressed person because of her impotence and failed marriage. Megan Hipwell is a young, sensitive woman with a dark past. Megan is not at all the model wife that Rachel imagines her to be. Megan begins dwelling into the depth of her trauma of losing her baby. Anna Watson is threatened by Tom’s ex-wife for calling and texting Tom all the time. She fails to see the unearthed trauma and pain in Rachel’s odd behavior and views her as a loser. Tom Watson disguises himself as a loving husband but in reality, he is a liar, cheater, murderer, and antagonist of the novel.

The Girl on the Train is a 2015 psychological thriller novel by Paula Hawkins. The novel debuted in the number one spot on The New York Times Fiction Best Sellers of 2015 list dated 1 February 2015, and remained in the top position for 13 consecutive weeks. In January 2016, it became the number 1 best seller again for two weeks. The book has also sold 15 million copies around the world. The readers of this book loved it warm-heartedly. The author did a really great job with the three character’s voices. It deals with powerful themes all the while weaving the story into a heart wrenching tale of obsession and madness. One cannot help but get reeled into the chaos of it all, questioning oneself at times of who is what, and whether everything is as it is.

There is no need of any suggestions for this novel as it is one of its kind. The writing is quite masterful as the writer gives away only enough with each chapter. Hence, this novel is perfectly paced.

TAKE A STRESS REDUCTION BREAK ! DO THIS…

” Don’t stress the could haves , if it should have , it would have “

Above thought is the thing which we all understand & will praise & will say that it is right . BUT , what happens to us when we have to apply this above thought ? We as a human being are much concerned about the could haves , the could haves which are not even certain , their uncertainty gives us stress . Why we don’t understand that taking stress for things which are not even certain in our lives would affect out health . And because of this we can suffer from health issues that would result severe in their future lives .

Every one wants to get relief from stress , but very few work on reducing stress . Let me tell you the fast & quick way to relive from your stress

MEDITATION IS THAT WAY !

If stress has you anxious, tense and worried, consider trying meditation. Spending even a few minutes in meditation can restore your calm and inner peace. Anyone can practice meditation. It’s simple and inexpensive, and it doesn’t require any special equipment. And you can practice meditation wherever you are — whether you’re out for a walk, riding the bus, waiting at the doctor’s office or even in the middle of a difficult business meeting, or while studying .

During meditation you have to be n full attention , close your eyes & should try to concentrate , it will work out best when you will do it with Chinese flute . It will fill your eyes , ears & mind with relaxation , & hence you will forget all your stress . Doing such meditation for just 10 mins in a day will fill you with energy & enthusiasm & also you will feel relief from your stress . Meditation can give you a sense of calm, peace and balance that can benefit both your emotional well-being and your overall health. And these benefits don’t end when your meditation session ends. Meditation can help carry you more calmly through your day and may help you manage symptoms of certain medical conditions. Meditation might also be useful if you have a medical condition, especially one that may be worsened by stress.

While a growing body of scientific research supports the health benefits of meditation, some researchers believe it’s not yet possible to draw conclusions about the possible benefits of meditation. With that in mind, some research suggests that meditation may help people manage symptoms of conditions such as: anxiety, asthma , cancer ,chronic pain , depression, high blood pressure , sleep problems , tension headaches , etc. Don’t let the thought of meditating the “right” way add to your stress. If you choose to, you can attend special meditation centers or group classes led by trained instructors. But you can also practice meditation easily on your own. And you can make meditation as formal or informal as you like, however it suits your lifestyle and situation. Some people build meditation into their daily routine. For example, they may start and end each day with an hour of meditation. But all you really need is a few minutes of quality time for meditation.

As we always says , ” its not the quantity but the quality that matters . Hence you should spend the quality time doing mediation , & give you body a boost instead of stress .

The Scout Movement

Student hood is a time of honoring. One of the student organizations that helps is The Scout Movement. Let’s think about that a bit here.

Background, Origin and Development

The Scout Movement originated in South Africa. The Boer War took place. The city of Mafeking ( now called Mahikeng ) was surrounded. The task of guarding the city was entrusted to Robert Baden-Paul. He co-founded many of the 12- to 17-year-olds. He taught them the lessons of patriotism, virtue, companionship, first aid, collective responsibility, living according to circumstances, and understanding the gestures of others. He was involved in espionage, Won.

Swami Vivekananda said, “Give me 100 energetic young men and I shall transform India.” Similarly, the Scout Movement, founded in South Africa by Robert Baden-Paul with twenty young men, is growing like a tree with millions of ideal volunteers in many countries around the world today. 

The Scout Movement in India

The Scout Movement was started by Annie Besant long before Indian independence. After the liberation of India, it became known as the The Bharat Scouts and Guides. There are two divisions in this movement: Boy scouts and Girl scouts.

Pledges and Terms

The scout boy must make these promises.

1. I will fulfill my duties to god, the king, the mother, the father, and the elderly.

2. I will be ready to help others.

3. I will abide by the laws of the scout movement.

The scout’s salutation with three fingers signifies these promises.

There are ten rules. They are,

1. Being Honorable: A scout should not deviate from the truth, no matter what trials may befall him. 

2. Devotion: Must have devotion to God, devotion to Guru etc.

3. Benevolence: Always be ready to help others. The goal of this campaign is to ‘be ready’. If he is healthy, he can harm others. He also need to know how to give first aid to the injured.

4. Brotherhood: Everyone should be treated as a brother. Caste should be secular. The poor should not discriminate between the rich. 

5. Treat everyone with respect.

6. Compassionate attitude

7. Self-control

8. Courage 

9. Have thrift.

10. Requires purity of mind, vote, action.

Benefits

As students join the army, they will develop qualities such as devotion to God, love, humility, respect, discipline, generosity, and benevolence and will be good to their parents and others. Will provide first aid to the injured. Will organize meetings. Will do many more favors.

All students should take part in such a charitable charity and engage in charitable work for the country.

International Youth Day- 12th August 2021

Theme 2021, why do we celebrate this day? Importance to speak up for the coming youth. Movies for youth, what else is celebrated today!

 Theme: “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health”

The main aim is to highlight that every action which needs to be taken for the better of life on Earth, cannot be achieved at a global level without the contribution of the youth. With, Increasing population the need for not only a larger volume of healthier food more sustainably will not ensure human and planetary wellbeing but also poverty reduction, social inclusion, health care, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation.

 The United Nations in 1999 after a recommendation was made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth. Then the first International Youth Day took place in the summer of 2000.

 It is mainly to empower young people to participate in public life so that they can have opportunities to contribute to society’s development across the world and be heard completely. It is not just to protect them, but to incorporate them in the development of communities regardless of their ethnicity, background, and status. It honors the traits of young people and acknowledges the challenges that today’s ferocious youth face.

Youth with the support and wisdom of old are the torch-bearers of this world.

Examples:

In partnership with UNDP, Bibliothèque sans frontières (Libraries Without Borders) young staff travel across Burundi, are disturbing knowledge through e-books, paperbacks, educational games, internet-ready mobile devices and so on.

Mercy and Shetuuka, sibling farmers working to reduce hunger. Also, create jobs in Namibia through eco-friendly farming.

In Egypt, a group of tiny activists has been traveling village to village, determined to end female genital mutilation in their country.

One of UNDP’s 600 transportation projects to promote economic development in rural Afghanistan, encouraging more boys and girls enrolling in primary school, while addressing safety concerns on the village’s main road.

The list is endless and we need support, we need to be heard, and taken seriously irrespective of our age. Youth brings many issues which violate basic human rights to surface and fight for them.

https://undp.medium.com/17-ways-youth-are-changing-the-world-505a489e91dc

 Movies putting forward importance of youth participation and their situation:

Into the Wild (2007,Must see)

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012).

The Edge of seventeen.(2016)

Moxie.(2021)

Love, Simon. (2018)

Quotes:

Older men declare war. But it is the youth that must fight and die. —Herbert Hoover

The duty of youth is to challenge corruption. —Kurt Cobain

“The surest way to corrupt a youth is to instruct him to hold in higher esteem those who think alike than those who think differently.”
—Friedrich Nietzsche

“In youth, it was a way I had,
To do my best to please.
And change, with every passing lad
To suit his theories.

But now I know the things I know
And do the things I do,
And if you do not like me so,
To hell, my love, with you.”


― Dorothy Parker, The Complete Poems of Dorothy Parker

Other Days Celebrated Today:

Black Womens Equal Pay – United States

World Elephant Day – Canada, United Kingdom, United States & South Africa

Music Of India

India is rich in various types of music played in different traditions, cultures, being played since ages. There are mainly 3 types of music: Classical music, Folk music and Modern music.

Classical Music

It includes Carnatic music and Hindustani music. The basic concepts of this music includes Shruti (microtones), Swaras (notes), Alankar (ornamentations), Raga (melodies improvised from basic grammars), and Tala (rhythmic patterns used in percussion). Thereare seven svaras are Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha and Ni respectively.

Folk Music

It consists the music according to the state and regions. Some of them are:

Dandiya and Garba

Dandiya or Raas is a form of Gujarati cultural dance that is performed with sticks. The present musical style is derived from the traditional musical accompaniment to the folk dance. There is also another type of dance and music associated with Dandiya/Raas called Garba.

Haryanavi music

The folk Music of Haryana spread because of the Bhats, Saangis, and Jogis. It is sung and played in the state of Haryana, parts of western UP and neighboring districts of Rajasthan and Punjab.

Himachali

Himachal’s folk music varies according to the event or the festival. One of the most popular style of music is Nati Music, where nati being the traditional dance that is done on the song. Nati Music is usually celebratory, and done in fairs or other occasions such as marriages.

Qwallis

It is the traditional form of Islamic songs practiced Northern India. It is also linked to the Sufi tradition and performed with one or two lead singers with several musical instruments like harmonium, tabla, dholak, etc.

Rajasthani music

It is one of the most popular forms of music in India. The essence of Rajasthani music originates from the creative symphony of string instruments, percussion instruments, and wind instruments accompanied by melodious renditions of folk singers.

Gazals

t is a type of music with a short poem with a series of couplets. Each couplet is an independent poem.

Body Neutrality: What is it and how is it different from Body Positivity?

Body positivity has been around for years now, and it deals with challenging society’s view on the “ideal body type.” It refers to the assertion that all people deserve to have a positive body image, regardless of other’s opinions. 

Body Neutrality is, however, a relatively newer term coined somewhere in 2015 by bloggers, celebrities, etc., to disconnect the relationship between physical appearance and self-worth.

It is a philosophy that one should focus on what their body can do for them rather than what it looks like.

“The body positivity movement urges people to love their bodies no matter what they look like, whereas body neutrality focuses on what your body can do for you rather than what it actually looks like,” said Chelsea Kronengold, the associate director of communications at the National Eating Disorders Association.

While people that practice body positivity might say, “I love my legs, cellulite and all; they are beautiful.”

A person practicing body neutrality might say, “I love my legs because they help me run.”

Body neutrality is difficult to navigate when we have been taught that physical beauty can create happiness. But suppose a person recognizes a more petite physique or nose job won’t instantly make them happier. In that case, they can find body peace both before and after they change their body.

“When people become overly invested in changing their bodies to change their experiences of the world, it becomes a really dangerous sort of thing that perpetuates itself,” Wassenaar said. “Because oftentimes I find that you can’t ever change your body enough to make yourself happy.”

Dr. Wassenaar has also talked about how diet and fitness plans that require restriction or pushing our body past its boundaries are not body neutral. Those plans force a person to hold the diet or fitness plan’s specific rules above their body’s natural hunger or physical activity cues.

Body neutrality helps one recognize and prioritize how they feel in their body. This might mean moving your body because it feels good, and you enjoy the movement, and not to “burn off” the food you’ve eaten. It also means you listen to your body to know when to stop or take a day off.

Body Neutrality doesn’t encourage indulging in unhealthy choices; instead, it means that meals usually feature fresh, whole foods, but you also eat intuitively. That one does not have to resist the urge or suppress their cravings or “make up’ for a heavy meal by limiting yourself to salad the next day.

Caring for the motherland

Independence day is celebrated as a festival in India and why not! It marks the day when our nation finally got freedom from the trap of the British empire and established its own identity by laying down its own constitution later on. Our great freedom fighters sacrificed their lives for the sake of the nation’s pride and freedom, leaving a message for all of us to take care and develop our newly independent nation. So it becomes our duty to protect the motherland and respect it. But, did we succeed in doing so? Did we bring justice to the sacrifice made by our leaders during the fight for freedom? Till now we have developed good infrastructure and made a global presence in various fields but still we lack many more things that require immediate attention.

The first and foremost is health and hygiene which is very important for us. Health of the citizens is being compromised against work. Be it the rich or the poor, all face health issues in one or the other way. During the British rule, the citizens were forced to act in accordance with their norms and health was barely taken care of. Similar is being observed now. The workers as well as non-workers(unemployed) suffer health problems either due to scarcity of resources or discrimination. This not only talks about food but other such factors that define good mental and physical health of people. The low-level workers don’t get enough pay and those who get, don’t find time for mental peace; their work load is big. There are a number of unemployed as well who suffer mentally for not getting ideal work/job. These cases are the most often and hence, call for support both physically and mentally.

The poor people who do not have any job, look for maximum they could get from the minimal they afford. They are on high risk when it comes to good health since they try to arrange food for themselves and their family without caring for their health, by working at places full of risks like factories, without using proper equipment. They can’t afford protection equipment for themselves and hence work manually, be it garbage picking or other such works. Their families are often seen living on the footpaths or near the garbage sites, risking their lives. Such children get affected by malnutrition due to shortage of resources with them thereby increasing chances of bad health and hygiene in their upcoming generations as well.

This needs to be sort out for the sake of growth of the whole country. Existence of poverty restricts the development of the nation. There is a need for creation of jobs for the unemployed population since we all are human resource which are very useful for a nation and should not be wasted off.

Having mentioned about garbage, it is a serious problem requiring immediate action. There are hardly any local streets which are completely garbage free. The garbage attracts many diseases which is not in favour of anyone.

People still use plastics knowing how hazardous it is as a waste. The pollution it creates has effects on our health. People call destruction for themselves by cutting down trees and generating more waste side by side. It affects all living creatures in one or the other way. Proper disposal is not followed and it takes years for such garbage to settle down and get converted to minerals in the soil. There are ways developed to cope with the problem but none seems ready to take them up. People should try to minimise the waste they create and use resources efficiently.

“Every drop counts”. Water is used extensively by those who can afford it without caring for the needs of the future generations. This behaviour has led to scarcity and unequal distribution among the population. Water is a necessity and hence everyone has the right to access. There has been a huge depletion in availability of water over the globe and we all know Life will not exist without it. Still people are not realising or following steps necessary to save water.

Our future depends on how we act today. Real growth and development is seen in how well managed are we. These problems show that we still lack much more than achieved. It is not the buildings and roads that define us but the humans residing there and cleanliness followed will show our development. Focus should be on the management of resources in an efficient way and being united for a good cause. This can only be done by supporting each other and caring for the nation.

Remedy from heat ! “put your straw in coconut water.”

Its time to put your straws in coconut water & hydrate you body at the most of its level . Mostly dubbed as ” Mother Nature’s sports drink” by marketers, the demand is skyrocketing, propelled by celebrity and athlete endorsements and promises to hydrate the body and help with a whole host of conditions, from hangovers to cancer and kidney stones. Low in calories , naturally free of fats & cholesterol , more of potassium than that of four bananas , it is a super hydrating drink which gives you body full energy to go on with the pace that you are required to go with .

WHAT IS COCONUT WATER ?

Naturally occurring , coconut water has a sweet & nutty taste . Many people ask this question , how coconut is filled with water . Let me give you an answer of this , As the fresh water assimilated by the roots is conveyed right up to the crowns of the coconut palms through osmosis process, any dissolved salts which exist in the subterranean water automatically get eliminated through this natural filtration. Fresh water that gets accumulated in coconut is actually ‘endosperm’ or the food or nourishment for the coconut’s growth. Coconut water contains easily digested carbohydrates in the form of sugar and electrolytes. Not to be confused with high-fat coconut milk or oil, coconut water is a clear liquid in the fruit’s center that is tapped from young, green coconuts.

Professional tennis player John Isner credits coconut water with keeping him on his feet for his epic 11-hour marathon Wimbledon tennis win. “It is super hydrating and has kept me going in long matches and prevented me from cramping even in the hottest and most humid conditions,” he says. He drinks the mixture of coconut water & water before the night of the match & this helps him to get hydrated all day long in that match .

Sports nutritionist Nancy Clark, author of Nancy Clark’s Sports Nutrition Guidebook, says coconut water won’t rehydrate the body unless you can drink plenty of it. If you enjoy the taste and can tolerate large amounts, it could help keep you hydrated.

A 2007 study shows coconut water enhanced with sodium was as good as drinking a commercial sports drink for post-exercise rehydration with better fluid tolerance. Another study reported that coconut water caused less nausea, fullness, and stomach upset and was easier to consume in large amounts during rehydration. It is naturally occurring drink which will keep you hydrated all day long . In a study conducted, coconut water prevented crystals from sticking to the kidneys and other parts of the urinary tract. It also reduces the number of crystals formed in the urine. Researchers believe that coconut water helped reduce the production of free radicals that occurred in response to high oxalate levels in the urine. From nausea to kidney stones , coconut water has worked as a remedy for most of the health issues , so what are you waiting for ? Go and buy a coconut & enjoy the mother nature’s Sports drink .

Why you should watch/read MONSTER?

MONSTER is the magnum opus of mangaka Naoki Urasawa and a Cold War psychological thriller – it is a seinen manga manga also adapted into an anime following the whole story exactly. It follows a Japanese neurosurgeon, Dr. Kenzo Tenma, who has residence in Germany to work at Eisler Memorial. Engaged to his boss’ daughter and with optimistic prospects in his medical career, Tenma’s values soon hijacks any stable life as a darkly dramatic irony – he was only trying to do the right decision(s) morally: a tragic statement that ‘right’ doesn’t entail the best results. His life is sidetracked into revolutionary conspiracies from the Soviet bloc, violent machinations of a criminal underworld and a boy, Johan, who’s a nihilistic catalyst of chaos; all these intense affairs are to the backdrop of relatively ordinary existence as a shocking duality showcasing the thin veil between horror and normalcy as is also applicable to our own nature. Stylishly European in every day as an atmospheric overture, with the location rife for intrigue as close to the Iron Curtain, MONSTER is an incisive examination of human nature – the cause of ‘evil’, why and who is truly responsible; the whole work, too, acts as a character study in conscientiously designed personalities who’re palpable as representations to the human condition.

A difficult choice

Dr. Kenzo Tenma sacrifices his career to save Johan as a child in a dilemma of choosing a patient for his expertise – the town’s mayor or an innocent boy shot in the head – and although demanded to save the mayor for financial reasons, he opts for Johan as he arrived first in the staunch belief ‘all lives are equal’. These philosophical and moral systems are the root of MONSTER – how these inform and challenge one’s life choices to the darkness we may encounter as aberrant of all we thought as usual; beliefs are easier in a vacuum of a solitary life or with a confirmation bias. Tenma’s choice would have unforeseen, destructive ramifications for which he takes responsibility, too, for which no attitude could prepare him – he had saved a boy who would evolve into a ruthless, charismatic leader of mass destruction. If he knew of the outcome, would he still have performed his duty as a doctor and thought of Johan as ‘equal’ – this is the central concept that tests Tenma’s view on the worth of lives, his right, too, to intervene and act. As he’s demoted for his failure with the mayor, and his lover leaves him as no longer financially secure, the senior staff at the hospital responsible for his punishment all coincidentally die in a poisoning while the boy, Johan, disappears.

The investigation leads to nowhere and Tenma is restored in his role, he subsequently becomes the Chief of Surgery at the hospital nine years later. Destiny would have him reencounter Johan who’s an adult, however, who callously executes a patient as a clear reality the boy he rescued was indeed evil. This refocuses the old investigation onto Dr. Kenzo Tenma who benefited the most – a detective, Inspector Lunge, of a federal agency is convinced Tenma is behind all these crimes, ‘Johan’ a mere persona of his. Escaping from his normal life as the police seek to frame him, and determined to resolve his responsibility of ‘Johan’, Tenma embarks on a tenacious journey as a fugitive.

Excellent Characters

Supported with a vast cast, who are each developed in an immaculate fashion, and each embroiled into extensive subplots concerning these, MONSTER is a ‘coup de maître’ as a psychologically intimate drama with an array of emotions from these characters as an expository fiction of humanity – powerful from the complex dilemmas and philosophical challenges we see engage them throughout the voluminous narrative. Deliberately meticulous in characterization, contemplative in tone and purposeful in each plot point, MONSTER is a crafted tale sure to resonate with audiences for a long time at a fundamental level – it indulges in themes perpetually inherent to society, no matter the current state. Patience is rewarded in appreciation of the story as an emotive tale crafted into an intricate character study.

Themes

The plot structure is a slow-burn of side plots and miscellaneous errands to establish a vibrant world consisting of of various personalities, agendas and their interactions: no man is the same – each one has their own history – and valid perspective along with sympathetic emotions. The characters and situations are also not limited to the overpowering arc of a showdown between Johan and Tenma – people have their own multifaceted lives to not merely be props for the plot. As a result, Naoki Urasawa’s depicted world is tangibly immersive, both in the depth and also sober art, which explores darkness in a manner that’s not crudely exploitative, it is innocently inquisitive: a treatise of our morals in conflict to the worst of humans.

MONSTER accomplishes itself as a darkly philosophical work on society, people and their beliefs – it is the finest psychological horror, mystery drama and crime thriller in the history of manga as a comprehensive feat; it is a multi-layered narrative – little contrived or for some cheap ulterior purpose – with equally compelling characters. The setting of Eastern Europe in the throes of the oppressive Iron Curtain is unique an aesthetic that feels authentic – a dangerous regime where the authorities are unreliable and a sense of overbearing danger throughout from leadership which does not truly care for the people. I would rank MONSTER on level with Fyodor Dostoevsky’s ‘Crime and Punishment’ as a testament to the quality and feel only the medium, manga/anime, besets a prejudice on qualifying MONSTER to the canals of worthy artistic heritage.

Science in education

Article

Abstract

Necessity is the mother of invention. When there is need, invention or discoveries take place. In this article we are going to discuss the history of science, different scholars, evolution theories and pedagogical aspects of science. 

Key points:

  • History of science and it’s evolution from the 5th century to the 21st century.
  • Scholars and their field of work
  • Evolution in theories 
  • Nature of science and philosophers 
  • Need of teaching and the pedagogies for the nature of science.

Introduction:

The history of science included evolution and new inventions of science. History of science showed progress in the process of thoughts and followed the vision. The nature of science consists of its systemized empirical facts and inferences, concepts, laws and theories. We discussed the theories of different philosophers and their facts. The pedagogies & curriculum of science should be more student-centric and focus on learning more about the environment.

History of science

The evolution of science in history is slow and dramatic. There were many  scholars like: Aryabhata, Pythagoras, chanakya, alhazen, Giordano Bruno, Galileo, Issac newton, jagadish chandtra bose, Prafulla Chandra Ray, Dr. mahendra lal sircar, C.V raman, Jamsetji and many other. They all have a vision to develop scientific temper in society. Nalanda university is the first great university in recorded history. The philosophers stand by the facts and give the proven reason about their theory. The mission and vision of the science in history to develop in society demolish the misconception and find new methods.

Nature of science & philosopher

What is the nature of science and its implication in the education system?  The thinker’s aimed to develop clear criteria to distinguish science from pseudoscience. He focused that the cognitive practices of scientist is thought dimension to understand nature of science. The evolution of the science also included in the nature of science. The science is growing and brings changes in itself. He also discussed the danger to humanity by science –based weapon of mass destruction. He put the light over the current consensus of science in which he described observations are not neutral, they are theory-laden. Observations determine the correct theory. 

Needs of teaching science 

It is also important to understand why we need to teach and or learn science and what to teach? 

So we need to learn science because science seeks to describe and explain the physical world based on empirical evidence. Science contains methods and approaches which help to lead to new inventions and discoveries. Scientific knowledge helps us as students to revise new evidence, theories and research. It also helps us to make scientific temperament in society and things more reasonable and justified.

Pedagogies for nature of science and curriculum

The pedagogies for the nature of science should be inquiry based. The teacher should encourage the students to develop curiosity so they can think and inquire. History of science – how the theories come into existence, how the idea comes in the theorist mind- could help them to understand the concept easily, for example the history of gravity and Sir Isaac Newton.

The curriculum should be less subjective and bookish. More day to day experiences should be included which leads to inductive thoughts. The curriculum should be more based on research, not comprehensives. 

Conclusion 

  • Evolution of science has changed throughout the years..
  • Development of scientific temperament in society is the vision of the scientists and philosophers of science.
  • Nature of science always brings changes in itself.
  • The pedagogy for nature of science should be inquiry and history based approach.
  • The curriculum must be more related with daily life and research based.

Organic Farming

 With the increasing use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, organic farming stands as an eco-friendly farming process. Organic Farming is the process of farming without using any synthetic or chemical fertilizers. In simple words, it means farming without the use of any inorganic substances. 

Benefits of organic farming

Chemical fertilizers are not only highly expensive but also have some serious environmental consequences. Some chemicals contain toxic materials which can harm the skin and respiratory organs. It can deteriorate the natural fertility of the soil by killing the bacteria and other microorganisms present in it. It takes years to regain the natural fertility of soil. 

Organic farming can ensure maintenance of the soil quality and also prevents soil erosion. It can also prevent the harmful effect of nitrates leaching into the groundwater. The chemical fertilizers have a tendency to escape from the soil to the nearby water bodies and pollute them. Therefore it is extremely important to minimise the use of chemicals and switch to better alternatives. 

Organic farming in India

India stands in the 100th position in the World Hunger Index of 2020. This indicates towards the growing food requirement in the country. Ensuring an adequate amount of food for the huge population of the country is an enormous challenge that needs to be tackled. But it is also important to ensure the quantity as well as safety of the food. In India, organic farming is largely seen as a procedure of using organic manure instead of chemicals. But it also includes several methods to increase the microbial population of the soil. 

 The chemical fertilizers yield results quickly. As the process of organic farming takes a lot of time and due lack of awareness and facilities, it is not widely practiced. Between 2011 to 2014, there was a decrease in organic farming in India. 

Sikkim was declared as the first 100% organic state in the whole world, by UN Food and Agriculture. All of its  farmlands are organically certified. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides are not available in the state. In 2003, all imports of chemical fertilizers in the state were banned. This transition to a completely organic farming practice has helped around 66,000 farming families in the state. This organic image has also uplifted the tourism sector in Sikkim. It helped to promote the idea of organic farming in the country. 

Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana is a government scheme under the Soil Health Management and the National Mission of Sustainable Agriculture which aims to promote certified organic farming in India. The objectives of the scheme includes providing resources and motivating the farmers to take up organic farming. 

The idea of organic farming and the question of food safety and eco-friendly farming measures have received some attention lately. With proper education and access to facilities, organic farming can be further promoted in the country.


STANDING TRUE TO ‘CITIUS, ALTIUS, FORTIUS’!

We have crossed almost one and a half year now, with the pandemic into its most powerful, raging form with two devastating waves of surge in the number of those affected with the deadly coronavirus. Many countries are facing the wrath of a scathing third wave too, with many new mutated forms and variants of the virus infecting millions of people around the world. Our daily lives have sure been disrupted with the advent of the nationwide lockdowns happening periodically in many countries including our own. From daily grocery stores to educational institutions, office spaces and workplaces, public places, malls and theatres, almost every place has pulled down the shutters temporarily, owing to the lockdown restrictions. Now, these were the regular day-to-day activities that were halted for a short time span. But what about international events which were planned long ago and their preparations had begun in fervour and flamboyance well in advance. Well, these were the events that would be attracting a lot of international tourists, spectators and most importantly, participants and attendees. But as the pandemic set in, international travel was strictly banned, with only very important and urgent travel allowances permitted. The world hoped that this chaotic situation might wither away soon, bringing everything running together smoothly and on track. But it wasn’t late until we realized that we would have to stay put inside our homes for almost the next two years to come and many of our long term plans had to be called off or put on hold for a while. One of these gala events everyone had set their eyes on was the Tokyo Olympics 2020 season. The extravagant Olympics that take place once every four years and are considered the epitome of sporting competitions are something which every aspiring star player and every nation looks forward to with gleaming hopes and pride. To receive the honour of hosting the Olympics is an proud achievement in itself for the hosting country. There are zillions of preparations that go into arranging and conducting the games successfully. With international level players and athletes from hundreds of professional sporting events coming in for the games, the hosting nations have to make sure that the players and their accompanying crew of coaches, medical professionals, etc. are provided with the best facilities and are given the warmest hospitality during their stay through the course of the games. Japan too, prepared with great enthusiasm for the Olympics, making a special Olympic village for the grand purpose too. With a huge budget and unending preparations, the island nation had been in its best form to prepare for the games. But in the face of the pandemic, the Committee had to keep on postponing the Olympics. The event which was to be conducted by mid-2020 was pushed to 2021 due to the difficult circumstances worldwide. But Japan stood up strongly and firmly to the global situation, with successful, well organized and perhaps wonderful conduction of the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Though spectators weren’t allowed in the stadiums for the live matches and events, the organizing body made sure all the games were live telecasted for the highly energetic crowds throughout the world. The nation truly played on a huge risk, but truly stood out in their efforts of bringing in a heartwarming and fantabulous Olympics season, sending a powerful message across the globe of staying strong and standing up with grit against the unprecedented situation with endurance. So, kudos to everyone who made a great effort to positively raise everyone’s spirits up though the Olympics, and kudos to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics!

Letting Go

Romeo and Juliet is probably one of the best known pieces of fiction in the world. Two lovers separated by family differences find each other only after death makes them meet in the world beyond.

What Are the Real Origins of Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet?” | by Julia Rose Harmon | The Smartie Newsletter | Medium

Now, it is a very philosophical way of saying, but in life, sometimes, one must know how to give up. Giving up is not the part where one never tries but the part where one realizes that he or she or they are done trying – to their best. And it is not a sign of cowardice but a very healthy exercise when giving up is accompanied by letting go.

The American star Olympian Simone Biles announced her early return from the Tokyo Olympics citing mental health reasons, the most decorated Gymnast of all time was clearly being braver and more conscious of herself than the way in which many conservatives in her country tried to portray her. She knew that she could not perform if she could not keep calm and that would only make it worse for her – deep in her head. Let us not forget that she holds 32 medals combining World championships and Olympics. In the 2016 Olympics, she singlehandedly won 3 gold and 1 bronze medals and another gold medal in teams event. She, by no means lacks the resources to be the champion. But she understood her mind.

Biles smiling and waving

The process is difficult. One might argue that giving up is like admitting defeat. Admitting defeat in the face of a certain defeat is honesty! And although your mind requires some straining, it is up to you to decide to what extent can you strain the same.

Next time, when you are giving your best and after several attempts, it seems futile to continue, give it a thought. Should you or should you not continue.

The Japanese Language and why learning it can be hard

With the sudden increase in the Japanese Economical might after the second world war and its steady cultural impact due to technology, manga and cartoons, people have been more interested in Japanese culture than ever. Japan is still a largely conservative society with modernity picking up steadily despite an ageing population. But assimilating into that society can be hard. The most important reason being the difficulty a non-native shall face in learning their language.

Modern Japanese is a fairly new language – just like modern Italian, French, Mandarin or Hindi. Before the Meiji restoration, every part of Japan had a local language that was similar to but nor exactly the way in which Japanese speak it today. Ancient and Medieval Chinese led to the formation of the script that the Japanese used. The Meiji restoration meant that Japanese as spoken in the court of Kyoto was exported to all provinces and the need for a new script was needed. This led to creation of three scripts in the modern times – the Kanji or the Old Japanese – the one influenced by ancient and medieval Chinese characters. The next are the two modern scripts – Hiragana script that is used to express vernacular terms and words in the vocabulary while the Katakana script is used to write words borrowed from other countries. For example AC and Fridge or refrigerator will be written in Katakana while Fuji, Tokyo etc will be written in Hiragana.

Now, the Japanese language unlike English, Hindi and Arabic is a phonetic language. That means that it does not have standard alphabets with vowels and consonants that then group together to form words but rather sounds that make the alphabets of the language. So, both the Hiragana and Katakana scripts have 72 characters each. And writing or using even these characters has to follow some non-standard rules of phonetics.

Finally, Japanese is a language with a very strict emphasis on seniority. While this exists in most other languages as well – except Roman languages like English, in languages like Hindi and North Indian Bhojpuri, Nepali Hindi, Tamil etc., it is only about the addition of suffixes to the root word or in languages like Urdu, there is no such seniority needed because all the people are addressed in a high degree of respect. Japanese however might have different words that have the same meaning but suit different situations – casual, formal or with elders.

Finally, please don’t say goodbye to a Japanese guy. That is considered rude. The better expressions are see you soon or take care.

Arigatou Gozaimasu! ありがとうございます

Happy Learning!

ESSENCE OF INDIAN TRADITION

HERITAGE

The word heritage is defined as “Anything transmitted from ancestors or past ages”. The Indian heritage is often best appreciated concerning different historical periods. We are the inheritors of a cultural and non-secular tradition stretching over 4000 years.

CULTURE AND CIVILIZATION

The word ‘culture’ and ‘civilization’ are often used as the same. However, they have their own clearly defined meanings which differentiate them.

CIVILIZATION

‘Civilization’ means making better ways of living and making use of nature to satisfy daily needs. Civilization includes developing societies into politically well-defined groups that work together for improved conditions of life in terms of food, dress, and communication.

CULTURE

The English word ‘Culture’ is coined from the Latin word ‘cult or cultus’ which means tilling, or cultivating or refining and worship. ‘Culture’ refers to the inner self, a refinement of mind, soul, and heart. Culture includes various art forms and sciences, music and dance, and several higher activities of human life which also are classified as cultural activities. On the whole, it is cultivating and refining a thing to an extent such that its outcome evokes our admiration and esteem. This is often practically an equivalent as ‘Sanskriti’ of the Sanskrit language.

CHARACTERISTICS OF CULTURE

 • Culture is learned and purchased

 • Culture is shared by a cluster of individuals

 • Culture is cumulative

 • Culture changes

 • Culture is dynamic

 • Culture gives us a variety of permissible behaviour patterns

 • Culture is diverse

 • Culture is ideational

CULTURAL HERITAGE

Cultural development may be a historical process. Cultural heritage includes all those aspects or values of culture transmitted to citizenry by their ancestors from generation to generation. They’re cherished, protected, and maintained by them with unbroken continuity, and that they feel pleased with it. Architectural works like monuments, material artifacts, the intellectually achieved properties, philosophy, treasures of data, scientific inventions, and discoveries also are a part of heritage.

TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE

Traditional knowledge or ‘local knowledge’ may be a record of human achievement in comprehending the complexities of life and survival in often unfriendly environments. Traditional knowledge, which can be technical, social, organizational, or cultural was obtained as a part of the good human experiment of survival and development. We have to analyse, evaluate conserve, and revive the normal Knowledge Systems for the economic betterment of the planet in a holistic manner. It is that the knowledge system possessed by various communities across the world. Such knowledge has been accumulated, used, and has been bequeathed through several generations. It’s usually regarding the natural surroundings of the community and includes agricultural knowledge like manner of cultivation, environmental knowledge, and knowledge of natural medicines.

TYPES OF TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE

 • Cultural knowledge

 • Artistic knowledge

 • Biodiversity or natural resources

 • Agricultural knowledge

 • Sacred knowledge

CHARACTERISTICS OF TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE

 • It has been handed on from generation to generation.

 • In many cases, it’s transmitted orally for generations from person to person.

 • It is being considered by the communities as a gift of God and not as personal property.

 • This knowledge generally distinguishes one community from another community.

 • It is typically impossible to spot the first creator of the knowledge.

 • It is learned by observing continuously, experiencing, and practicing it.

 • It is inseparable a part of the communal and cultural life of its holders.

 • It is typically related to biological resources.

NEED FOR SHIELDING TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE

 • Lack of proper legal policy framework for the protection of traditions.

 • Exploitation of traditional knowledge and indigenous resources.

 • Patenting the medicinal plants and their derivatives.

 • Commercial interests violate indigenous property rights.