SC/ST Hub

About SC/ST Hub

As per the Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises, it is mandatory to procure a minimum of 25% of the total annual value of goods and services from the Micro and Small Enterprises, in which 4% of goods and services should be procured from SC / ST owned Micro and Small Enterprises and 3% of goods and services should be procured from Micro and Small Enterprises owned by women, for the Central Government Ministries, Departments, and Public – Sector Undertakings. Tenders are published by Central Public Service Enterprises (CPSEs), Public Sector Units (PSUs), and Government Organizations. These tenders are then bid upon and after the order is won, a Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) is mandatorily required to be submitted for the CPSEs or large firm tenders, against the total value of the tender. This PBG agreement acts as a guarantee that the bank would pay the specified amount in case the Micro & Small Enterprises which is the applicant, fails to meet the ‘financial’ and ‘performance’ obligations. The bank charges an annual fee against its guarantee which generally ranges from 0.5 – 3% per annum. This application fee is paid one time, at the time of issue of the PBG. However, this charge varies based on the ‘risk profile’ of the applicant and various other aspects. Although, these charges are of small amount but somehow add a little burden on the part of entrepreneurs. To lower this burden on the Scheduled Cast / Scheduled Tribes Micro & Small Enterprises (SC / ST MSEs) the government has set the National SC-ST Hub (NSSH). This committee is chaired by Shri Milind Kamble the chairman of the Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DICCI). It provides financial assistance to the SC / T MSEs by reimbursing the bank charges that any SC / ST MSE has paid for issuing PBG for government tenders. For the SC-ST Hub the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, from 2016 to 2020, made an initial fund allocation of Rs 490 crore.

The objective for providing financial assistance to the ST / ST MSEs under this scheme are as follows:
• For achieving the target of 4% procurement of goods and services under the Public Procurement Policy, by the SC / ST MSEs.
• To provide exposure to the SC / ST MSEs to the global market.
• To provide a competitive platform to the MSEs and help them with their marketing skills.
• To provide exposure to large industries and buyers.
The nodal agency to look after the implementation of this scheme is the National Small Industries Corporation Ltd. (NSIC).
The financial assistance under this scheme is provided from the National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) fund and has a limit of 50% or Rs 1,00,000 whichever among the two is less. This amount is exclusive of GST and other taxes applicable. Although, in a financial year the scheme can be availed multiple times by the SC / ST MSEs the amount remains limited as mentioned above. The reimbursement s done based on valid documents or receipts showing payment details, bank statements showing debit of BG charges, GST invoice generated through the system, and a copy of PBG issued (which should be certified).
For availing the benefit under this scheme, the following criteria need to be fulfilled:
• If a proprietorship firm wants to be recognized as SC / ST MSE the proprietor should belong to SC / ST category.
• If a partnership wants to be recognized as SC / ST MSE then at least 51% of shares should be held by the SC / ST partners.
• If a private limited company wants to be recognized as SC / ST MSE then the company should have at least 51% shares held by SC / ST promoters.
• The SC / ST MSEs must have their Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum (UAM) number, PAN number and must be registered under the Goods and Service Tax (GST) to avail of the scheme benefit.

After the evaluation and approval of the reimbursement by the NSSHO and NSIC, the reimbursement amount is transferred to the bank account of the applicant from where the PBG charges are debited and this is directly transferred through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS). The claims by the applicant are required to be submitted within 45 days from the time PBG is issued.
This scheme can be availed by the PBG issued on or after 14th November 2018 till the NSSH scheme exists or there are any revisions or amendments made to this scheme.

Impact

The SC / ST Hub also provides professional support to the SC / ST MSEs and provides training and skill development programs. In 2016 – 17 it has provided for 3 capacity building training programs (skill entrepreneurship development) to 83 candidates, in 2017 – 18 64 programs with 1,311 candidates, in 2018 – 19 288 programs to 6,514 candidates and for the year 2019 – 20 provided with 513 programs to 13,362 candidates which come to a total of 868 programs to a total of 21,270 candidates. 823 crore procurements have been made from SC / ST owned MSEs by 162 CPEs and a total of 17,537 SC / ST candidates have been assisted as per the reports of the SC-ST Hub under the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises. This scheme is helping nurture the Micro and Small Enterprises through the involvement of the marginalized, that is the Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes, giving them equal opportunities to grow and develop financially as well as socially.

Underrated Regional Movies – Part 1

Sarvam Thaala Mayam (2018) by Rajiv Menon – Tamil

Despite having a basic premise and a simple narrative with a predictable climax, the film doesn’t fail to bring you that smile you wish for, after having watched a feel-good inspirational film. It’s also a bonus if you’re interested in Indian classical music.

Our protagonist is Peter Johnson, a young man who is introduced to us as a diehard fan of Tamil superstar Vijay, so much so that he skips exams to watch his films first-day first-show. The transition that Peter’s character undergoes from a carefree lad crazy about a film star to someone well-disciplined and obsessed with music is the highlight of the film. What connects these two Peters is the love for beats, whether he played them on drums to celebrate Vijay’s success, or to become an ace Mridangam player. That’s what the title of the film suggests – beats are omnipresent, and there’s no particular way to follow them.

Sarvam Thaala Mayam

Interpretation

At its core, it’s essentially a Dronacharya-Ekalavya story, but has much more to offer. Although Peter surrenders himself to renowned mridangam player Vembu Iyer, he soon realizes that the path is going to be difficult. Society is cruel, and talent is not all that it takes to succeed. The commentary on caste/class distinction raises the obvious question: Isn’t art supposed to be for everyone who wants to pursue it? Peter’s father is a Mridangam manufacturer, who is in love with the instrument in his own way, not as a musician but as a builder. The father-son conflict regarding how to view the same object, one as a means of livelihood and the other as a subject of passion, is especially interesting.

I guess the film reinstated my belief about art being subjective, and the fact that rigidity in art is never a good idea. I would say I loved the film because it gave me what I wanted to see, which may not work for everyone. However, it is still a lovely watch, and I would ask you to go for it if you want something sweet and lighthearted. My only issue was that the female lead didn’t have much to do except playing a love interest.

Picasso (2019) by Abhijeet Warang – Marathi


In around 70 minutes, Picasso is a breezy watch. The story is simple, straightforward and heartwarming, and apart from the main takeaway that is the beautiful father-son relationship, you also get immersed in the world of Marathi Sangeet Natak, specifically the art of Dashavatar folk theatre as described before the end credits. Majority of the film is a detailed enactment of one such play, which keeps you yearning for a big screen experience of the same, if not the experience of watching such performances live.

Picasso 2019

Interpretation

But the father-son relationship is not the sole thing to explore here. It more of an artist-artist relationship, one extending a supporting hand to another, although it may not be mutual at the moment. Pandurang is a sculptor, and also an actor on stage. He provides for his family with whatever he earns, which is never enough. He has inspired his son Gandharva to paint, who has made him proud by winning a prestigious competition that can eventually give him a chance to learn art in Spain. But Pandurang cannot afford even the 1500 bucks needed to compete for the next round. Gandharva is heartbroken, but decides to spend the whole night watching his father perform on stage – one artist accepting his defeat, and eager to see the other flourish.

The scene in the frames above touched the right chords of my heart. We see a frustrated Pandurang trying to apply makeup on his face, while the cigarette dangling from his fingers makes it difficult for him. He knows he isn’t going to make much money tonight, and he is equally heartbroken as his son for having refused him. But then Gandharva helps out his father, painting his face as he would paint a canvas. Pandurang looks lovingly at his son and flashes a teary smile. Gandharva appears to be a true artist at this moment, whether he makes it to Spain or not.

How to read someone’s body language?

What Is Body Language?
Put simply, visual communication is that the unspoken element of communication that we use to reveal our true feelings and emotions.

It’s the relaxed countenance that breaks out into a real smile – with mouth upturned and eyes wrinkled. It are often a tilt of the top that shows you’re listening, sitting or standing upright to convey interest, or directing attention with hand gestures. It also can be taking care to avoid a defensive, arms-crossed posture, or restlessly tapping your feet.

Being conscious of visual communication in others means you’ll devour on unspoken issues or negative emotions. Here are some nonverbal signs to seem out for.


Body Language Examples From Difficult Conversations
Difficult conversations are an uncomfortable fact of life. Perhaps you’re handling a rude customer , giving an employee feedback , or negotiating a contract.

Situations like these are often complicated by feelings of nervousness, stress, or maybe anger.
-Arms folded ahead of the body.
-Minimal or tense countenance .
-Body turned faraway from you.
-Eyes downcast, maintaining little contact.

Visual communication of a Bored Audience
-Sitting slumped, with heads downcast.
-Gazing at something else, or into space.
-Fidgeting, picking at clothes, or twiddling with pens and phones.

Body Language for an honest First Impression
-Use a firm handshake. But aren’t getting carried away! you do not want it to become awkward, aggressive, or painful for the opposite person.


-Maintain good eye contact. attempt to hold the opposite person’s gaze for a couple of seconds at a time. this may show them that you’re sincere and engaged.


-Have an open posture. Be relaxed, but don’t slouch! Sit or stand upright and place your hands by your sides.


Body Language for Interviews and Negotiations.

-Use mirroring. If you’ll , subtly mirror the visual communication of the person you’re lecture . this may make them feel more comfortable , and may build rapport . But don’t copy their every gesture or you’ll make them uncomfortable


-Relax your body. Maintain the looks of calm by keeping your hands still and breathing slowly.
Look interested. If you’re asked a posh question, it’s okay to briefly touch your cheek or stroke your chin.

How does one Use Your Body Language?
Eflect on how you employ your visual communication – and avoid making assumptions! If you’re getting mixed signs from someone, ask them what they’re thinking. After all, interpreting visual communication should be a complement to talking and listening attentively, not a replacement for it.

Books Written By Women For Women

Women are capable of accomplishing anything. Create great ideas, build businesses, and make a great difference in the world. Nonetheless, we don’t see enough of this message in mainstream media. However, the realm of literature has provided us with many incredible stories of women’s perseverance, knowledge, wit, boldness, and drive.As such, here are some excellent novels written by women authors for women.

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

The caged bird attempting to escape has long been a symbol of resistance to injustice. Maya Angelou employs this sign to express her desire to leave a life of strife, racism, and misogyny. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is an autobiographical novel about Angelou’s childhood in the 1930s. 

We encounter prejudice, rape, and rejection from her community, even from her own mother, as we follow this impoverished, disenfranchised black girl. Maya Angelou discovers as an adult how her own strong spirit, compassion, and generosity to others is the greatest way to be free. The book is a strong and beautiful storey of courage and breaking free from one’s captivity.

We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

We Should All Be Feminists is an interesting piece on women’s rights and equality. This book-length article discusses how the term “feminism” is sometimes connected with misunderstandings and prejudices like brainwashing.

To counterbalance this, Chimamanda Ngozi Aidchie provides the reader with a simplistic yet compelling description of feminism: equality for women in social, political, and economic terms. She confronts common feminist misconceptions front on. Even after her own friends called her a terrorist supporter, Aidchie continued to clarify that the term “feminist” has little to do with hostile, resentful, and men-hating women. The central theme of this novel is a narrative of a life-long battle to achieve equality between the sexes. 

According to the author, feminism is important since it helps to tackle women’s silence and exploitation.By how successive generations educate their children, the concepts of gender equality and feminism continue to struggle with all these terms.

The Terrible by Yrsa Daley-Ward

The Terrible is a novel about a lady attempting to manage her life on her own. Yrsa Daley-Ward recounts personal aspects of her childhood without her father and the terrible facts she had to discover in this stunning piece of painfully honest prose.

These realities are referred to as “the terrible.” As a young lady, the writer couldn’t comprehend the mental strain of having encountered tremendous pessimism and tribulations so early on in life. Having grown up as the only kid of colour in a white area, she was educated by a family of radical Christians, and witnessed her mother being devastated by several bad relationships.

Later in the book, the book relates Daley-Ward’s life as an adult, when she, too, had to deal with “the terrible.” She discovered it was continually expanding and having a much more huge psychological strain on her as she became hooked to narcotics and experienced repeated mental breakdowns.

The author reaches the climax and confronts “the terrible” after suffering all of the negative stuff that has occurred to her. She can only break free and recover if she recognises the consequences of her trauma and embraces her self-sustaining positivity.

The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré

The title of this novel hints at the main character. The tale of Adunni, a young Nigerian girl who aspires to acquire an education but ends up in an arranged marriage, is told in “The Girl with the Loud Voice.” As she escapes her violent husband and her native town, her resolve to attend school, which her mother encouraged Adunni to accomplish, triumphs.

The plot follows Adunni on her trip, which is packed with perilous, life-changing, and remarkable experiences. On her journey, she gains access to literature such as English dictionaries when she finds herself working as a maid in Lagos. Eventually, she comes upon an opportunity to learn. Her irrepressible attitude and perseverance drive her on the path to the “louding voice,” making this book a fantastic piece of how battling for your ambitions will be rewarded.

Notwithstanding the many difficulties in her journey, she never quits on her aim of escaping poverty. The end result reminds readers of the author’s message: pursue your goals, and you might just bring about change.

Wow, No Thank you: Essays by Samantha Irby

Wow, No Thank You is an essay collection in which Samanth Irby describes her life as a married woman in her forties. She compiles a fantastic series of stories in which she finds herself in situations that many people can relate to. All throughout the novel, humour is a recurring motif, as Irby makes amusing comments on her own behaviour and life choices.

The author’s inner voice, however, is at the heart of the book, pushing us to be more sensitive to things. That discourse also enables us to notice these things that no one else notices, which frequently results in pretty funny circumstances. Irby demonstrates how her internal thoughts influences her clothing and footwear, food preferences, cleansing items, and so much more.

Is work from home good for you?

More than a year have passed since the pandemic arrived. After lockdown announced, many of us started working from our homes. After sometime it become stressful. We don’t know when our lives becomes normal again. Will we go to the office again – and, if so, how often? We all know that work will never be the same, even after corona. What would it be like to have “work clothes” again?

According to research, those who work from home tend to report high levels of stress. When working from home, many people may experience distractions and interruptions throughout the day. People find themselves getting less exercise than they would do in an office setting. When we’re not active throughout the day, we didn’t feel tired at night which affect sleep quality. During your work hours, you may receive many non-work-related calls, just try to avoid them.

Job satisfaction were also negatively affected. Working from home doesn’t suit everyone. Switching to work from home may have a negative impact on many people’s mental health if they are unable to find a routine that suites them. Work from home is not for all job types such as manufacturing, hospitality, heavy Industry work. Work life balance affected very badly, people work more hours, less in person interaction. Some people stared at their screen for hours, sitting in awkward positions with no breaks. Easy access to junk food which means more weight gain. Working from home requires time management.

Benefits of WFH. You are safe from getting infected, comfortable while working, healthy eating habits, can save money easily. Confidant home office, increased performance. Many have enjoyed the benefits of telecommuting

  • Create routine and stick to schedule.
  • Try to make your workspace comfortable.
  • Keep your work and home lives separate.
  • Do not stick to text based communication only.
  • Maintain regular hours.
  • Take small breaks.
  • Be positive.
  • Don’t take too much stress.

Working from home is not always better or worse for people’s health.

Animated Movies of 2021 – Honest Reviews

Luca – Pixar Animated Studios

Sheltered from world beyond the ocean surface, a young sea monster ventures to a small coastal town disguised as a human boy. This movie unfortunately falls to an unreasonably high standard having been produced by Pixar Animation Studios. Sparing a few exceptions, there is an expectation that any given Pixar film will be in discussion for best movie of the year. While Luca certainly will not be talked about in any such manner & pales in comparison to Pixar’s other creations, it is far from a bad movie. This movie offers enough charm & heart to be generally enjoyable to almost any viewer. The environment is established well & the characters are all relatively likable. The animation, while not superb, is competently crafted.

The humor is mostly effective, with the physical comedy rendering the best laughs for me personally. The only aspect that didn’t work for me was that of the emotional investment. While there is some tension to be felt throughout the conflicts, the motives are never relayed strong enough for me to feel the weight behind some of the decision making. The climax went for deep emotion that just never struck. I don’t mean to sound redundant, but this just failed to capture that special Pixar spark. Outside of that, there is nothing necessarily wrong with this movie. It’s a harmless, entertaining watch for a young family movie night.

Raya And The Last Dragon – Walt Disney Pictures

Worlds divided amidst war, a driven young warrior sets off to find a legendary dragon in hopes to reunite the community as one. While Disney Princesses are a trademark in the studio’s animated productions, I can’t say modern original creations like Elsa or Moana have really captured that magical spark for me. Raya, on the other hand, turned my head. The characters in written & showcased in a way that demonstrates deep understandable complexities while also crafting her into not only a likable protagonist, but a badass heroine as well. Per usual with Disney & their related properties, the quality of the animation cannot go unrecognized either. The script itself has its fair share of issues, including gaping plot holes & dialogue that is clearly pandering towards younger audiences, but nothing ever really compromised the enjoyment of the experience in a distracting way.

No movie is ever perfect, but it’s a huge compliment when it’s flaws can feel insignificant in the grand scheme of things. The one part that I had a harder time looking past was the execution of Awkwafina’s character. While she is undoubtedly a talented actress & comedian, I feel like she was given too much improvisational freedom for comedic relief that it made her character feel somewhat shallow. The writing was there for the character but I still had a difficult time building an emotional connection. My last minor complaint is that the music choices occasionally did not suit the tone of a given scene. As I said before though, this movie left me feeling positive about it once the credits rolled. It’s an engaging story & I would easily recommend giving it a chance if you haven’t already.

Elements of Yoga

Patanjali described eight element of Yoga in Yogasutras. The eight elements of yoga are Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Dharna, Dhyan and Samadhi.

1. Yama

It is the first element of astanga yoga. Through the practice of yama one can abstain from things that keep one’s mind involved in the inevitable struggle for survival. According to Patanjali there are five Yama Ahimsa ( Non-violence), Satya (Truthfulness), Asteya (Non-stealing), Brahmacharya and Aparigraha.

2. Niyama

Niyamas are related to one’s body and senses. Niyamas are also ethical practices as yamas. There are five niyamas Saucha (Purity), Santosh (Contentment), Tapa (Endurance), Swadhyaya( To study great Vedas, Holy books) and Tshwara Pranidhana ( dedicated to God).

3. Asana

Asana means ‘position or posture of body’. Asana gain so popularity that people thinks that yoga is nothing but asana but they are not aware that asana is a step towards yoga. Asana are performed to keep the body flexible, agile and young. There are various types of asana such as relaxative asana, meditative asana, etc. Each asana have different effects on various organ of body. It can be performed at any age without any problem.

4. Pranayama

It is the control of the process of breathing means appropriate control over inhalation and exhalation. There are three constituents of pranayama Puraka ( Inhalation), Kumbhaka ( Retaining the breath), and Rechka ( Exhalation). Pranayama helps in regulating the metabolic activities and enhance the functions of heart and lungs.

5. Pratyahara

It is a process of self control in which an individual is able to exercise control over his/her senses. To control the mind and senses is called pratyahara. The practitioner of pratyahara starts feeling extreme pleasure in remembering God.

6. Dharna

Dharna is concentration of mind. Dharna is the first step towards samadhi. Dharna is mental exercise which enables a yogi to go ahead towards dhyana and samadhi.

7. Dhyana

It is the process of complete constancy of mind. Dhyana is a complete concentration of mind over a period of time without any distractions.

8. Samadhi

The union of individual’s soul with absolute soul is called samdhi. During the stage of dhyana, when the disappearance of self-awareness takes place, the yogi attains the stage of samadhi.

The stock market bubble

A real concern or confused market parameters?

Introduction

An assertion like ‘Had you invested in the stock markets in 2011, your investments would have doubled by now’ triggers an urgent rush to invest in the market, bringing in the feel good hormones in most people. But often times, it is extremely misleading and the results could be catastrophic.

A stock market bubble is when the prices of assets rise exponentially, often not justifying their actual value.

Investors in 2020 faced a similar conundrum. With the pandemic induced lock-downs causing normal life and businesses to go haywire, the general investor felt it was better if they pulled their money out of the market. This led to the leading market index NIFTY50 dropping to 7,500 levels,a 40% decline from its value in January 2020(NSE india). As a result, the market became almost risk free and the only way ahead was up.

Investments started pouring in as the Covid-19 cases eased by August and significant institutional and foreign investors started pouring in money into the Indian stock markets because of their abnormally low levels. The domestic average investor soon followed suit and the markets saw a revival. In fact they rose to record highs( From record lows just a few months ago!) and the expectation of ‘winning’ a trade led to impulsive buys.

Perception versus Reality

Investors are not always sensible or rationale in their investing decisions and can be prone to various types of ‘bias’. These phenomena can explain the prevailing overtly optimistic market sentiments even when the macro-economic indicators are lacking behind.

Even with parameters like the G.D.P and inflation on the wrong side of desirable, and unemployment rate sky rocketing in 2021, the profits that the top 50 companies made in India in the last fiscal year has increased. This resulted in a lot of investors ignoring those macro-economic trends and could be the reason as to why the stock market segment is rising irrespective of it.

Hence the ever increasing corporate profits and the ‘feel good’ hormones can attribute to the ascend of the stock market levels from the previous years ruins but the question remains, ‘How long can this last’? Established wisdom suggests that corporates cannot sustain a contacting economy for long and that it is bound to catch up with it sooner rather than later. Caution is advised to investors with a majority of their money in these instruments. A bubble burst is in the realm of recurrent reality and cannot be ignored as a figment of the imagination.

Best Side Hustles to Start to Make Money Online

Money is a forever commodity, needs may remain the same but the ways have changed, traditional ways of 9-5 jobs are pretty much out of fashion, there are many resources available to give your bank account a kick start, one of them and most common is Online Business.

Online Business does not require any college degree, a particular interest, All of the above, can be started from anywhere as long as you have a stable internet connection,  a laptop/PC, and a willingness to work for part-time income.

There are various jobs available online based on easy-to-build-up skillsets, which may require no prior knowledge but guidance towards the interested hustle.

Therefore,  If you are starting from scratch here are some ideas and details you need to know. 

  1. Digital Marketing Agency & Social Media Marketing

Digital marketing can be done both online and offline but for social media marketing the only pathway followed is online.

These fields are based on traffic generated i.e the followers, views, and similar engagement of people on that account. Social media and digital marketing agencies particularly develop ads and engaging content usually for other businesses and their products and services for which the individual is paid up to $500.

Sources used for the job are Facebook and Instagram ads, Google Adsense, copywriting skills, hashtag marketing.

Required skillset can be developed using Youtube videos, Google skill shop, edX online courses, etc.

2)Blogging and SEO

This online field is often underrated but in reality, it has better scope for longer-term.

SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization, It is a process for making your published content ranked by the search engine and browser’s algorithms.

An informative blog following a trendy niche often gets regular views making blogger up to $700-1000 a month, Blogger can add $1000 more into the income with affiliate marketing and promoting well-paid ads on the blogging website.

SEO can give the outer edge if the blog uses keyword-rich phrases, catchy headlines, and user-friendly language.

Skills can be learned by any copywriting course.

Other interests such as content writing and designing are included in the same being a major part of it.

3)Making money with App Development.

This hustle requires basic coding skills but is in high demand, developers can earn up to $5000, by selling themselves on sites like Upwork, Fiverr, etc, or can promote themselves on social media or via email marketing to get more jobs as a freelancer.

The app development can be further subdivided into ios and android app development, both payback almost equally but requires skills in different coding languages.

App development skills can be learned from edX courses, Coursera, udemy , coding websites, etc.

4)Dropshipping with Shopify,  Affiliate Marketing,       Ecommerce

Shopify is one of the world’s biggest e-commerce platforms. You can promote the product you wanna sell ( not necessarily to be your product) , one can buy the product at a cheaper rate and sell it at on integrated price keeping the commission.

All products are sold online giving the sellers a huge passive income primarily based on the product’s demand and stock.

This program needs no prior skill set only the selection of the right product and planned selling tactics can earn you the profit. Also, the product price range will be decided by the seller along with the profit margins .while a portion of it will be taken by a service like Shopify, for advertising and helping with the sales.

There are many opportunities and despite age, gender or background, it is a matter of willingness and hard work, willpower to grow can dig canals to achievable wealth and part-time career goals. Online business is easy to start with many profits. Find and start your gig now! 

What do we know about Music?

“Music is the language of the spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife.”

Kahlil Gibran

“Music is the moonlight in the gloomy night of life”

John Paul Friedrich Richter

“Music is the universal language of mankind”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Introduction

These quotes on music give us a little idea about what music is to people and how it makes them feel. Music is defined as vocal or instrumental sounds or both combined in such a way as to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion. Music is an art and so it is usually influenced by culture and it becomes an important part of all cultures. Music does not only have to be professional, even a mother singing a lullaby for her baby is music.

History of Music

The history of music is almost as old as humanity. Archaeologists have found a primitive flute made of bone and ivory which can be dated back to almost 43,000 years old. A lot of musical styles could have been oral and so there is not much evidence on that. The oldest song by man is known to be the “Hurrian Hymn No. 6” which was an ode to the goddess Nikkal composed in cuneiform by ancient Hurrians around 14th century B.C. But the earliest piece of music was found on a 4000-year-old Sumerian clay tablet which had instructions on how to play the hymn in honour of the ruler Lipit-Ishtar. The oldest musical composition to have survived is known to be from the first century A.D., a Greek tune called the “Seikilos Epitaph”. This song was found engraved on an ancient marble.

Types of Music

The world is filled with several music genres and music styles. Some of the common music genres with examples are:

  • Classical – Moonlight by Ludwig Van Beethoven
  • Country – You should be here by Cole Swindell
  • Electronic Dance Music (EDM) – Fade by NCIS
  • Hip Hop – Gangsters Paradise by Coolio
  • Indie Rock – Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now by The Smiths
  • Jazz – A Kiss to Build a Dream on by Louis Armstrong
  • K-pop – Butter by BTS
  • Metal – Diary of Jane by Breaking Benjamin
  • Pop – Shape of You by Ed Sheeran
  • Rap – These Guys by Blay Vision
  • Rhythm & Blues (R&B) – You Got it Bad by usher
  • Rock – Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin
  • Blues – Sultans of Swing by Dire Straits

Benefits of Music

  • Research shows that music helps in keeping your heart healthy. Blood flows more easily when music is played, heart rate gets reduced, blood pressure lowers, it also decreased cortisol levels which is the stress hormone and it increases serotonin and endorphin in blood.
  • Music boosts the brain’s production of dopamine which helps in relieving anxiety and depression.
  • Music triggers some biochemical stress reducers which then help in reducing stress.
  • People going through depression are recommended to listen to music and it is supposed to help.
  • Music therapy is used for people suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia. This music therapy relaxes the patients.
  • Music therapy also helps in managing the pain, it reduces the perceived intensity of pain.
  • Music is supposed to increase the workout endurance one might have.
  • For some people, music helps in concentration and minimizes the chances of getting distracted.
  • Music helps in regulating and understanding your emotions.

Conclusion

Music has existed for a very long time and that too in many forms. Most of us listen to different kinds of music just because we feel like it, without realizing the benefits it has. So, music isn’t just some sound with some instrument, it indeed is the moonlight in the gloomy night of light.

References

THE ARMED FORCES.

The Indian armed forces consist of the Army, Navy and the Indian Airforce of the Indian union including the armed forces of the Indian states. Now let’s look into the armed forces nature and their presence that help our nation.

The Indian Army is of the nature of the land -based forces that are more indulged in land branch and the Indian Army has the largest component of the Indian Armed forces. The Indian Army came into life on 1st April 1895 which is over 216 years ago, which play an virtual role in land warfare the shape of Indian Army is of 1237117 active and 960000 reserve personnel and the head quarters is situated in Integrated Defence Headquarters Ministry of Defence,New Delhi. The commander in chief is President Ramnath Kovind and chief of Army staff is General Manoj Mukund Naravan. The primary mission of Indian Army is to ensure National security and National unity and also to defend the nation from external aggression and internal threats and also to maintain peace and security within borders. The Army as been involved 4 wars with neighbouring countries Pakistan and China. The Army is an all volunteer force and comprises more than 80% of the countries active defence personnel. The Army has embarked on an infantry modernization program and is also upgrading and acquiring new assets for its armoured as armed and aviation branches. Currently, the Army is also looking at enhancing its special forces capabilities. The Army has taken up the responsibility of providing internal security especially against insurgencies in Kashmir and North-east India over the years.

The Indian Navy is the naval branch of the Indian armed forces that came into existence 1947 with the role to Naval welfare force projection, Sealift, nuclear deterrence the size of the Indian Navy is 67252 active and 55000 reserve personnel and around 150 ships and 300 aircraft. The chief of the Naval staff is Admiral Karambir singh. The primary objective of the Navy is to safeguard the Nations marine land boards and act to determine or defeat any threats or aggression against the territory, people or maritime interests of India. In case, of both war and peace India Navy promotes bilateral relation between nations. The Indian Navy also conducted an International fleet review bridges of friendship and many ships of friendly navies from all around the world participated.

The Indian Air force complements of personnel and aircraft assets ranks 4th amongst the air forces in the world. It aim in air arm of Indian Armed forces the Indian Air force came into existence on 8 Oct 1932 with the role of aerial welfare and consist of 139576 active and 140000 reserve personnel with 1850+ aircraft. Commander in Air staff Air chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria. After India gained independence the royal India name of Air force was kept and served in the name of Dominion of India. They also undertake the operation vipay, operation meghdoot, operation cactus, operation poomali. It expands beyond engagement with forces. There is never more than one serving ACM at any given time in Indian Air force. The IAF provides close air supporte to Indian Army troops on the battlefield, strategic and access to modern capabilities. The IAF has also undertaken relief mission such as operation Rainbow in Sri Lanka.

Marine force are typically a military force trained to operate on littoral zone. In most countries the marine are an integral part of that state’s Navy. The principal role is to military operation in littoral zone operating from ships they are trained to land on as well as amphibious operations. Marine troops are used in a variety of other naval roles they conduct small scale raiding, maritime boarding operation, security of naval vessels amd bases,riverine and coastal missions. And they perform other tasks including special operations and land warfare, ceremonial duties and miscellaneous other takes as directed by the Government.

City of Dreams

Mumbai, what can I say about this city?
It’s a place where dreams are born and are converted into reality.
Staying in Mumbai is itself a dream for thousands of people but very few of them can make it here. Even after facing thousands of difficulties, one will always say, “we will adjust”. The city will challenge you in different ways and once you pass the test, you will never think of leaving it.
Every year thousands of people come to Mumbai with a suitcase full of clothes and eyes full of dreams. These dreamers constitute about 37% of Mumbai’s population.

Every Megacity has skyscrapers, mass transport, infrastructure. opportunities, same as Mumbai, Then what so special here?
It is special because it never stops working. Days and nights have no difference and the energy seen in the Mumbaikars is next level.

It’s where you will find people from every corner of the world.
And yet you may never lose yourself in the crowd.

It’s where you cross a road with orange Hindu flags hung up to walk into a Muslim community and Green flags hung while you walk into a Hindu community.
It’s a place where you shall find a beautiful church next to a gurudwara, or a mosque next to a temple.

It’s where you can enjoy the best, cheapest food; and how can one forget about the vada-pav and chai stalls which make the city complete.

Travel in a chock full bus filled with sweaty men and women. Then find it fun while swinging in it, and miss it when you leave. The “local railways” the lifeline of the city which commutes 3.7 million passengers every day.

Burn your wallets in top brand shops and in buying exotic products. Find the same things available on the road, with substantially good quality at a much cheaper price.

Want to fill that empty hole in your stomach even at midnight. And find food vendor’s around every corner of the street waiting for you.

Chillax on a beach, drive by the sea, enjoy the breeze, feel cold in winter, feel wet in monsoon, sweat the hell out in summer, and still enjoy it all.

Ask the next person for directions, and be surprised to find that person accompanying you to your destination,
Learn Marathi by just daily journeying around, speak Gujarati without knowing it with friends, hear some French, and experience one of the best English knowledge the world can offer.

Still, what can one say about it because it’s “Aamchi Mumbai”

Social Change ( Meaning, Definitions, Causes )

Nothing social remains the same , nothing social abides .

Nature is never at rest . Change is present in the world because change is the Law of Nature .
Like Heraclitus an ancient Greek philosopher said ,
” It is impossible for a man to step into the same river twice “
According to Heraclitean philosophy , “Neither remains the same “, ” the reality of change , the impermanence of being the inconstancy of everything but change itself “

Society we live in is changing .
It’s not a static phenomenon but a dynamic entity . It’s an “ongoing process “subject to constant change due to many forces and factors that irresistibly cause changes .

The perfect example can be observed in our own history , where the man’s rise and growth from the Paleolithic age to the Neolithic age, then to the Stone Age and next to the copper age to development over time, technologies expand, ideologies and values take on new components; institutional functions , modernization etc .

Incessant changeability is the very inherent nature of human society .
Hence , social change is due to the fact that humans are dynamic beings and undergo variation .

Meaning of social change

Social change in general means change in society .
Society is a web of Social relationships .

Social relationships include social processes and social interactions .

Hence , ‘social change ‘ is used to indicate the changes that take place in human interaction and interrelations .

Society is composed of a vast and complex network of patterned human relationships in which all humans participate.
When human behaviour is in process of modification , this is another way of indicating social change.
Thus , apparent alteration in the mutual behaviour between individuals which takes place is a sign of social change .

Definitions :-

“Social change is a term used to describe variations in or modification of any aspect of social processes , social patterns , social interactions or social organisation .”
– M.E. Jones

“ By social change is meant only such alterations as occur in social organisation , that is structure and functions of society “
– Kingsley Davis

” Social change may be defined as a new fashion or mode , either modifying or replacing the old ,in the life of a people – or in the operation of society “
– Majumdar ,.H.T

” Social change refers to a ‘ process ‘ responsive to many types of changes ; to changes in the man-made conditions of life ; to changes in the attitudes and beliefs of men , and to the changes that go beyond human control to the biological and the physical nature of things .”
– MacIver and Page

MacIver also refers to social change as simply a change in human relationships .

Thus , social Change includes alternations in the structure and functions of the society .



Characteristics of Social Change

1:
Social Change is Continuous

2:
Social change is universal

3:
Social Change in Environment

4:
Social Change is Human change

5:
Social Change Results from Interaction of a Number of Factors

6:
Social Change May Create Chain Reaction

7:
Social Change Involves Tempo (or Rate) and
Direction of Change

8:
Social Change maybe planned or unplanned

9:
Social Change is an Objective Term

10:
Social Change can be a short as well as long run process.

11:
Social Change is Temporal


Sources of Social Change

There are several factors due to which social relationships undergo constant alterations .
Sociologists as well as many anthropologists have been debating and discussing the sources of social change .

Fundamentally , there are two factors that are major sources of social change according to various discussions by several sociologists.

• Diffusion
• Inventions

The source of social change is to be found in both diffusion and invention .

Social change takes place due to cultural diffusion i.e spread of elements of culture from one local group to another .
Every society borrows the cultural elements of another society for its progress directly or indirectly . Many tribes became more civilized by diffusion of cultural elements from several local groups.

Social change also takes place because of the inherent capacity of people to invent .
Invention refers to the rearrangement of known traits into new patterns or configurations .
Inventions in every field whether industrial , agricultural , communication or transportation had a huge impact on society .
Hence , inventions constitute the major source of social change.



Causes of Social Change



There is no single cause that produces change in society . Several factors operate together to cause social changes .

According to Harry M. Johnson the cause of social change are of three types

i) the causes of social change are inherent either in the general social system or in any specific social system.

ii) the change is caused because of some impact from the social environment of the social system.

iii) changes due to impact from a non – social environment .

The physical , biological , cultural and the technological factors have been generally regarded as the potential factors of social change.
Lapiere regarded these factors as ‘intervening variables ‘ rather than just ‘ causal or determining ‘ factors .



• Geographical / Physical Factors


This factor emphasised the impact of the geographical environment upon human society .
According to Huntington ,. alternation in climate is the sole cause of the evolution and devolution of civilization and cultures.
Some social ecologists have attributed much importance to geographical factors for social change.
The physical factors such as climate , rivers ,climate , mountains , natural vegetation etc have profound influence on human society but these factors cannot solely explain the cause of rise and fall of civilization . Hence , the influence of geographical factors are neither decisive nor negligible.

• Biological Factors

Biological factors include living and non living creatures. Man is influenced by non-human biological factors and modifies them to serve his purposes .
The biological factors influence the numbers , the composition ,the birth rate , the death rate , the fertility rate and hereditary quality of the successive generations.
Among the biological factors is the qualitative aspect of population , that produces major social change which has dynamic relations with man and society.

• Cultural Factors

According to Max Weber theory of comparative study of religious and economic institutions , the main cause of social change is cultural factors.
Cultural factors consist of values and beliefs , ideas and ideologies , morals and manners , customs and traditions and various institutions .
Ideas and ideals , ideologies and philosophies are inherently changeful ,hence not only social values direct social changes but change themselves .
Dawson and Getty have written that culture gives speed and direction to social change and determines the limits beyond which social change cannot occur .
Our behaviour , living , thinking etc are influenced by the changes in social values.

• Technological Factors

Technological Factors have immense influence on social change .
Ogburn stated , ” Technology changes society by changing our environments to which we ,in turn , adapt . The change is usually in a material environment and the adjustment we make to the changes often modifies customs and social institutions .”

The increase in new machines , new discoveries had a very great influence upon society.
Technology is the product of civilization .It is a systematic knowledge through which using tools and running machines helps to serve human purpose .
A single invention may have innumerable social changes . In the modern age technological factors are among the predominant causes of social change.



Role of Great Men in Social Change

Great Men like Buddha , Mahavira , Shankaracharya , Jesus Christ , Zoroaster , Prophet Mohammed , Confucius and many other great personalities introduced revolutionary change in the realms of religion .
Napoleon Bonaparte, Washington , Lincoln , Karl Marx, Lenin , Mao Tse Tung , Kemal Pasha , Mahatma Gandhi , Hitler , Mussolini , Khomeini and many others have caused revolutionary changes in the political field .
Similarly many writers , scientists , philosophers have many contributions to social changes .

Great Men and their leadership , revolutionary thoughts , extraordinary talents , powerful expression , ability and efficiency have brought revolutionary and long lasting changes in society .

All Social changes occur because of the actions of men and women .

As Robert Bierstedt said ,

” Culture is not self innovating , ideas are not self creating , and technology is not self inventing . Somehow , somewhere , in a society , a man breaks however slightly from tradition . He does some things in a different way . He finds a shortcut . He has a new idea or makes a new discovery . When that happens whether he is a ‘ great man’ or not , he has distributed the stream of culture and like a stone , tossed into the waters , it’s ripples may go on forever . It may affect a while , all the compartments of culture and all the sectors of society .”

66A IT ACT

News –Supreme Court found the enforcement of
Section 66A of the Information Technology
(IT) – six years after it was struck down.

Section 66 A of IT act

• Dealt with information related crimes

• Sending information – found to be offensive, disrespectful and threatening – are punishable offence
 Communication – sent by means of a computer resource or through any
communication device

THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ACT, 2000
CHAPTER XI – OFFENCES
66A.

Punishment for sending offensive messages through
communication service, etc.–Any person who sends, by
means of a computer resource or a communication device,–
(a) any information that is grossly offensive or has
menacing character; or
(b) any information which he knows to be false, but for the
purpose of causing annoyance, inconvenience, danger, obstruction, insult, injury, criminal intimidation, enmity, hatred or ill will, persistently by making use of such computer resource or a communication device;
(c) any electronic mail or electronic mail message for the purpose of causing annoyance or inconvenience or to deceive or to mislead the addressee or recipient about the origin of such messages, shall be punishable with
imprisonment for a term which may extend to three
years and with fine.

Weakness of Section 66A

• Created an offence on the basis of undefined actions
 Sub section (b) – law can be enforced when the information is found to be
causing inconvenience, danger, obstruction – fails to define the terms
 Gives a scope for wider interpretation – may go against the purpose of this
law
• Such terms do not fall among the exceptions granted under Article 19 of the Constitution

• Section 66A did not have procedural safeguards like other sections of the law.

Provide Poor Lunch Organization(PPLO)

PPLO is started by G.Sanjay on 2019 as an initiative to serve the lunch to the poor people who starve for food.

PPLO’s motive is to “Reduce Shortage by Donating the Wastage“.

FOOD WASTAGE- A SHORT GLIMPSE AND STATS:

Having food is something to celebrate but have you ever wondered consciously just much food you waste. Have you ever stopped to analyze just how much food is wasted in your household, society, country and the world? It is not something that people, who have food readily available whenever they feel hungry, worry about. However, for people who are not even able to eat one meal a day, often wonder if all the food that is being wasted around them on a daily basis could have filled their stomach.

Food waste is an issue of importance to global food security and the environment. But what a lot people may not realise is that is impacts a country’s economy as well. Every day, food suitable for human consumption is wasted in large quantities in medium and high-income countries at the retail and consumer level. In fact, a significant food loss and waste occur at the production to processing stages in the food supply chain in low-income countries. 

Food Wastage in India:

Contrary to the belief of Indians that we don’t waste food, data showed that India wastes as much food as the whole of United Kingdom consumes. In fact, food wastage is an alarming issue in India and country’s streets, garbage bins and landfills have sufficient evidence to prove this. According to the United Nations Development Programme, up to 40 per cent of the food produced in India is wasted and about 21 million tonnes of wheat are wasted annually. 

You don’t even have to scour through several resources to see how much food is wasted in the country. During the nationwide lockdown this year, India registered high wastage because of a poor supply chain. Food delivery website MilkBasket lost 15,000 litres of milk and 10,000 kg of vegetables in a single day after delivery agents were denied entry in societies due to lockdown. Farmers in Belagavi district of Karnataka spilt thousands of litres of milk in a river after they could not reach the people due to the lockdown. Several other reports surfaces which showed how much food was wasted.

Food Wastage stats:

  • Around 67 million tonnes of food is wasted in India every year which has been valued at around Rs 92,000 crores. For context, this amount is enough to feed all of Bihar for a year
  • Annually, nearly 21 million metric tonnes of wheat rots in India. This figure is equal to Australia’s total annual production
  • According to old 2018 BMC data, Mumbai generates close to 9,400 metric tonnes of solid waste per day, from which 73% is food, vegetable, and fruit waste, while only 3% is plastic. 
  • National Delhi also generates around 9,000 metric tonnes of waste per day, with the country’s largest landfill located in East Delhi.

Economic Impact:

Food Wastage not only leads to negative environmental impact but also causes economic loss. According to an FAO report, approximately one-third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted. The economic costs of this food wastage are substantial and amount to about $1 trillion each year. However, the hidden costs of food wastage extend much further.  In addition to the $1 trillion of economic costs per year, environmental costs reach around $700 billion and social costs around $900 billion.

Global food wastage costs as per FAO report:

  • 3.5 Gt CO2e of greenhouse gas emissions. Based on the social cost of carbon, these are estimated to cause $394 billion of damages per year.
  • Increased water scarcity, particularly for dry regions and seasons. Globally, this is estimated to cost $164 billion per year.
  • Soil erosion due to water is estimated to cost USD 35 billion per year through nutrient loss, lower yields biological losses and off-site damages. The cost of wind erosion may be of a similar magnitude.
  • Risks to biodiversity including the impacts of pesticide use, nitrate and phosphorus eutrophication, pollinator losses and fisheries overexploitation are estimated to cost $32 billion per year.
  • Increased risk of conflict due to soil erosion, estimated to cost $396 billion per year.
  • Loss of livelihoods due to soil erosion estimated to cost $333 billion per year.
  • Adverse health effects due to pesticide exposure, estimated to cost $153 billion per year.

Earlier this year, former Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Ram Vilas Paswan said that in financial year 2019-20, foodgrain wastage in the country stood at 1,930 tonnes, which was 0.002 per cent of the total procurement. The total procurement in FY 2019-20 was 751.72 LMT (Lakh Metric Tonnes). The minister shared the data on Twitter and asserted that the notion that foodgrain wastage is high in FCI (Food Corporation of India) godowns is not true. While he was right, the truth is that over a thousand tonnes of foodgrains was wasted which could have fed millions of people. 

Now that it is clear that food wastage cripples a country’s economy to an extent that most are unaware, some measures that the government needs to take is to include containing wastage in transportation, improve storage facilities. Food processing also needs to be sped up so food is saved and wasted less to feed more. 

PPLO’s WORK:

In PPLO Sanjay and his friends collects the food wasted by common people from their schools and houses and test the quality of the food ensuring that only healthier and good food will be served. We then serve the lunch for the poor people in need instead of throwing to the dusbin. If we find the food has been contaminated we convert the food into a manure by composting.

So in PPLO we ensure that the food is not wasted and it is either used to feed humans or to nurture plants.

Chennai: Fish sales remain extremely poor

Why eat lunch?

Lunch is an important meal for everyone. It provides energy and nutrients to keep the body and brain working efficiently through the afternoon. A packed lunch made at home can be a healthy and delicious choice and gives you control over the foods and ingredients included so the mothers or fathers or children who cook their food for loved ones can able to help the people in need by donating their wastage. So, we took a step to serve the lunch to the needs.

We were able to provide lunch for the slum consisting of 370 people from food collected from a single school. So, we can able to feed the whole world if the wastage is managed properly.

Food waste as fertilizer.

Foods which we find contaminated are transformed to manure to Grow plants. We could use all the food waste and prepare a compost out of them which can be used as organic fertilizer. This way we save the earth from the pollution caused by food waste and also do something productive.

Food waste is unique as a composting agent, it is the main source of organic matters. Fruits, vegetables grains, coffee filters, eggshells can be composted.

PPLO MISSION:

FOOD FOR ALL AND WASTE FOR NONE.

PPLO ACCOMPLISHMENT:

PPLO was successful in providing lunch for nearly 400 people from the food remains generated by a school of 527 students.

If you would like to support PPLO or if you need support from PPLO

Please Contact: s98208366@gmail.com