Sulabh Swachh Bharat - VOL: 2 | ISSUE 25

POSTAL REGISTRATION NO. DL(W)10/2240/2017-19

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Sociology Of Sanitation

Sanitation in Morocco

Seizing Hope From Despair

The Making of A Legend

Two-day national seminar being organised to discuss Action Sociology and its impact on society

One-third of Moroccans without access to proper sanitation services

The South African teacherturned-priest-turned-rightsadvocate is a shining example of virtue in activism

Official recognition by the UN would spread the benefit of yoga to the entire world

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RNI No. DELENG/2016/71561

A Good News Weekly

Vol - 2 | Issue - 25 | June 04-10, 2018 | Price ` 5/-

Environment day

Mother Earth Reviving Health Urbanisation and so-called growth needs to be balanced with the calls from nature that are already loud and clear, to save the Earth for posterity n Sujit Chakraborty

W

hen we arrived at Makaibari, it was stunning.

Makaibari is admittedly, and certified, the best tea garden in the world. Makaibari, the first tea garden and factory set up outside China by a Bengali princely family in 1859, just two years after the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. Makaibari, whose Silver Tips tea variety sells for Rs 64,800 per kg, and is exclusively made on demand.

But meet Rajah Banerjee, the last owner of the four-generation, familyheld property. “It is about the flavour in life, not the flavour in the balance sheet,� he said with his mesmeric and permanent smile, which is only replaced now and then by an uproarious laughter. In his khaki horse riding dress, which he wears every day to the garden in the morning, he at first sounded something of a fraud.

We had been sent to Darjeeling by the WWF Eastern Regional Centre for studying the use of pesticides in tea gardens. And we had been suggested that one Swaraj Kumar Banerjee, aka Rajah Banerjee, does not use pesticides at all.

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Cover Story

June 04-10, 2018

Quick Glance A healthy environment is the foundation of human life

We are putting the planet under enormous pressure

India to host World Environment Day 2018

Though he sounded like a bit of a big talker in our first meeting, he asked us to a walk in the garden. Down from the double-storied office opposite the factory, we took a turn into a forest path and were immediately greeted by large cobwebs.

“Cobwebs? That means there cannot be any pesticide anywhere nearby,” I said.

“Yeah, yeah… cobwebs… my wife put them up for you people as a show last night,” he said and jerked into a cynical laughter.

As we walked by, with small villages sprinkled through the densely forested area, we found children, all healthy, quite poor though, playing around squash trees and a smallish variety of cows and range free chicken at their own affairs.

It struck me then that we were in a Panchavati.

Life’s Essence

For one, the villages were within the forests, not outside. And that is the basic concept of the Panchavati.

More spiritual minded people will remember that Panchavati was also the place where Lord Ram, with wife Sita and brother Laxman, lived in during their exile. But why did the historian of Ramayana, Rishi Valmiki, specifically mention Panchavati?

In fact, though Panchavati has become famous as the abode of Lord Ram in exile, it is not exclusive to that.

The concept of Panchavati is this: The village is within the forest, and the principal trees are the five ficus group plants: a grove with five trees —Banyan, Bael, Amalaki, Ashoka, and Peepul. In fact, Ramakrishna Paramhans also did his meditation in a panchavati in Bengal. But why is a Panchavati important?

Because the ficus group is a keystone species. “A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment,

We are depleting the Earth’s natural resources, polluting its air and water, destabilizing the climate, and driving many of its species to extinction relative to its abundance. Such species are described as playing a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community, affecting many other organisms in an ecosystem and helping to determine the types and numbers of various other species in the community.

“Figs are the keystone species in many tropical forest ecosystems.

Their fruit is a key resource for some frugivores including fruit bats, and primates including: capuchin monkeys, langurs, gibbons and mangabeys. They are even more important for birds such as Asian barbets, pigeons, hornbills, fig-parrots and bulbuls, which may almost entirely subsist on figs when these are in plenty.

Many Lepidoptera caterpillars feed on fig leaves, for example, several Euploea species (crow butterflies), the plain tiger (Danaus Chrysippus), the giant swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes), the brown awl (Badamia exclamationis), and Chrysodeixis Eriosoma, Choreutidae and Copromorphidae moths.

“The citrus long-horned beetle (Anoplophora chinensis), for example, has larvae that feed on wood, including that of fig trees; it can become a pest in fig plantations.

Similarly, the sweet potato whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) is frequently found as a pest on figs grown as potted plants and is spread through the export of these plants to other localities.”

Makaibari Model

Makaibari tea estate offers this wildlife variety, studied and recorded by national and international universities.

But why has this happened?

Because the Banerjee family, feted globally, has shed greed. Unlike all other Darjeeling tea gardens, they have retained two-thirds of their entire estate under primary forests, and only one-third is under tea. Rajah Banerjee sits in office from 8.00 am till around 10, organising his business.

Then he sets out on foot to walk eight to ten kilometres around the various sections of his garden, talking to and joking with his workers. He inspects not just the health of the tea bushes, but also keenly watching the wildlife.

Every Monday morning, he holds a meeting of his forest rangers. Each of them tells him what kind of bird, insect or animal he has seen over the past week. All that goes into a massive, black register. It is what Agenda 21 calls the biodiversity inventory. No one in Darjeeling does this, except him. “It is about the flavour of life, not the flavour in the balance sheet.”

Over eight years, we studied the garden and the man.

When we told him that he was living in a Panchavati and had actually implemented Agenda 21, he said he had not known all that. “We have just noted the problems and resolved them. If that is Agenda 21, why don’t you prepare a note for that for me.

Cover Story

June 04-10, 2018

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25 Years Of Conserving Biodiversity In The Hindu Kush Himalayas n Janita Gurung & Pradyumna J.B. Rana

development.

Local communities are now benefiting further from the use of genetic resources through the CBD Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Bill, which acknowledges the right of indigenous people over their biological resources and traditional knowledge. Seven of the eight HKH member countries have signed the bill, and six have ratified it.

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his year marks a quarter century of the ratification of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) - an agreement among 196 countries to conserve the earth’s biological diversity while ensuring it is used sustainably and that the benefits from using genetic resources are shared fairly.

All eight countries of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH), from Afghanistan in the west to Myanmar in the east, are signatories to the convention. The HKH region hosts four biodiversity hotspots - the Himalaya, the Indo-Burma, the mountains of southeast China, and the mountains of Central Asia - that are home to species such as the critically endangered Himalayan brown bear and the white-rumped vulture.

Before 2000 there was significant biodiversity loss because of poaching, habitat loss, and unsustainable extraction of natural resources. This led to conservation action, which has resulted in noteworthy success stories.

Reclaiming endangered species The giant panda, the Royal Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros are some of the most famous species in the HKH. Their populations reached alarming lows by the 1990s, but recovered because of habitat conservation, stringent law enforcement to tackle poaching and illegal trade, and conservation outreach and education programs.

Contradiction

“Let’s go to Bharatpur or Corbett. It will be a relief for us and Joyee can be exposed to wildlife. I think it will cost a bit, but it will be well worth it, and we can come back on Sunday for office on Monday,” said Missus.

That is the problem. The cost she is counting is money. The cost we are paying is that we are no longer anywhere near a forest, let alone a

The one-horned rhinoceros and giant panda were downgraded from “endangered” to “vulnerable” in 2008 and 2016.

While the Royal Bengal tiger is still endangered, its population has increased significantly. Park officers, law enforcement, local communities, and conservation organisations, such as Project Tiger in India and Terai Arc Landscape in Nepal, have helped.

Bhutan network of biological corridors, linking nine protected areas allows tigers to traverse from lowland forests to high altitudes above 4,000 meters.

Local communities as agents of change Women and men in the HKH benefit from biodiversity, through food, medicine, shelter, forage, clothing, and ecosystem services.

For instance, Vaidyas and Amchis use herbs and animal parts to prepare medicines for several types of ailments.

More than a third of the total land in the HKH is protected. But conservation works best when Panchavati. The cost is that ten-yearold Joyee does not know where her milk comes from. She says it is from Mother Diary! And all she knows about wildlife is Lion King, or a smattering of what is shown in Animal Planet.

The flavour is now in the balance sheet, and life is lost.

In Odisha last month, a fourhundred-year-old temple of

local communities are involved.

Buffer zones and conservation areas in the region 488 protected areas engage local women and men in conservation. For example, there are community snow leopard rangers in Pakistan, Himal Rakshaks in Sikkim and community-based anti-poaching units in Nepal’’ Terai.

Biodiversity-based tourism is a major source of income in many parts of the HKH. Several thousand tourists come every year to the region to see Band-e-Amir National Park in Afghanistan, Inle Lake with its stilt houses and floating gardens in Myanmar, China Hongyuan Grassland, India Valley of Flowers, the naturally dammed lakes and black-necked cranes in Bhutan, the markhor in Pakistan, and the one-horned rhino in Nepal.

Biodiversity and local communities benefit from tourism income in protected areas: tourism generates cash for local communities and park fees are ploughed back for biodiversity conservation and community Panchuvarahi – a form of Devi Chandika had to be shifted 12 kilometres inland from its original place by the Bay of Bengal. Why? Sea level rise was threatening to engulf it.

Sheikh Rokon, the head of the Dhaka-based Riverine People, a collective of river experts, is worried that the rivers of Bangladesh are dying, and he reports on them every day in his Facebook account.

New challenges in the coming decades The past 25 years of biodiversity conservation have produced several success stories.

Governments, law enforcement agencies, communities, conservation organizations and the private sector have all played an important role. The coming decades, however, will pose new challenges. For instance, the increasing human population and decreasing wildlife habitats will cause more conflict between the two.

The Intergovernmental SciencePolicy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has recently identified pressing issues for the Asia and the Pacific, which includes the HKH region.

Invasive alien species, climate change and associated extreme events, and increasing waste and pollution are driving biodiversity loss. Biodiversity is extremely important for livelihoods and sustainable development in the HKH region, and collective efforts for its conservation will continue to be a priority in the coming years.

The Member of Parliament from Guwahati is unable to deal with the annual flooding and erosion of the Brahmaputra.

The Union of Concerned Scientists writes in their website: “The Sundarbans of India and Bangladesh is the world’s largest mangrove forest.

Accelerating sea-level rise due to global warming is likely to submerge the Sundarbans. This would eliminate

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Cover Story

June 04-10, 2018

India To Host World Environment Day 2018

India is emerging as a leader, given it has one of the highest recycling rates in the world. It can be instrumental in combating plastic pollution. the protection they provide against the region’s increasingly intense tropical storms.

By absorbing some of the force of wind and waves and serving as a flood barrier, mangroves can lessen the damage caused by cyclones and other storms.

In early 2010, a disputed Sundarbans island disappeared under the rising waters of the Bay of Bengal.

Scientists project that under a high emissions scenario, the relative sealevel rise is likely to inundate most of the Sundarbans by mid-century, and could wipe them out by the end of the century.

Without the mangroves of the Sundarbans to serve as a buffer, more frequent and intense storms are likely to pose a growing danger to the residents of Ganges basin including cities like Kolkata.”

Case Study: Sunderbans

Not just Kolkata, but even Dhaka and other cities closer to the Bay of Bengal.

Recently, The Guardian reported: “A vast mangrove forest shared by India and Bangladesh that is home to possibly 500 Bengal tigers is being rapidly destroyed by erosion, rising sea levels and storm surges, according to a major study by researchers at the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and others.

The Sundarbans forest took the brunt of super cyclone Sidr in 2007, but new satellite studies show that 71% of the forested coastline is retreating by as much as 200 metres a year. If erosion continues at this pace, already threatened tiger populations living in the forests will be put further at risk.”

But so what if the tiger fades away?

Again, the tiger is a keystone species and top of the heap of the food chain.

Its vanishing will mean an excessive growth of other species which the tiger feeds on. That means they would invade the local villages, just as elephants are doing in North Bengal and Assam, damaging crops, killing people.

The Problem

“They will have to fell 30,000 trees to construct the remaining 60 km of the Eastern Peripheral Highway,” says Dinesh Patel, a colleague. Already, 3,000+ trees have been felled for just the eight-kilometre stretch that has been built. Delhi will become less polluted, but the surrounding areas more polluted and in turn, send their pollution back to Delhi.

“Kinnaur apples are now not growing in Kinnaur, strictly speaking,” Dr Archita Bhatta, a science communication specialist says, based on her dissertation for Leeds University, UK. “They used to grow at 6,000 feet, but the weather has become so hot that they now grow at a much higher altitude.” This is what climate scientists call vegetation shift, and it has major consequences for the ecology, economy and the lifestyle of a vast majority of the farm-based communities.

“Unless we save the Himalaya, the entire north of India will be destroyed,” says the famous environmentalist and village-economy specialist Dr Anil Joshi. “But everyone wants to grab more and more land, encroach into the hills and forests,” says he.

Up in the hills in Dhanaulty, bang on the roadside, a hotel announces that it has a swimming pool. Where does the water come from? Where does the used and old water go?

Amita Chawla, who owns and runs a resort in Uttarakhand has some of his rooms fitted with AC. But why does one need AC in the hills?

“You don’t know these tourists. I was walking in the lawns one winter morning and I found one guest running his AC. They will ask for two extra blankets, but they need their AC on!”

That really is the problem.

Alternatives?

So is there no alternative? If one sacrifices avarice and starts thinking straight, there is. Take Dr Joshi’s sterling contribution of remodelling the gharat, or the waterwheel.

There are innumerous hill streams

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ndia is the global host of 2018 World Environment Day which will take place on June 5, 2018.

With “Beat Plastic Pollution” as the theme for this year’s edition, the world is coming together to combat single-use plastic pollution. Theme for World Environment 2018, urges governments, industry, communities and individuals to come together and explore sustainable alternatives and urgently reduce the production and excessive use of single-use plastic polluting our oceans, damaging marine life and threatening human health.

“India is excited to host the World Environment Day this year on June 5. Indian philosophy and lifestyle has long been rooted in the concept of co-existence with nature.

We are committed towards making Planet Earth a cleaner and greener place”, said Dr. Harsh Vardhan.

He added: “The country has

in Uttarakhand and other hill states. Dr Joshi has moderated the traditional waterwheel to use the running water from the streams to run the waterwheels. By the day, these gharats are used for running masala grinders dehusking of rice and wheat.

By the night, the conveyor belt of the same gharat is tagged onto a turbine which generates power for the villagers.

“In the hills, we do not need power

demonstrated tremendous global leadership on climate change and the need to shift to a low carbon economy, and India will now help galvanize greater action on plastics pollution.

Most of all, World Environment is a day of everyone around the world to take ownership of their environment, and to actively engage in the protection of our earth.

Plastic Pollution facts:

• Every year the world uses 500 billion plastic bags. • Each year, at least 8 million tonnes of plastic end up in the oceans, the equivalent of a full garbage truck every minute. • In the last decade, we produced more plastic than in the whole last century •50 per cent of the plastic we use is single-use or disposable. •We buy 1 million plastic bottles every minute •Plastic makes up 10% of all of the waste we generate.

during the day since everyone is out working. In the evening, we do not need fans, since it is already cool, and we light our lamps and watch television.”

But Chawla’s guests need AC even during their winter sojourns to his resort! This is the real killer: human ego! We now need to revert back to the flavour in life and not in the balance sheet to get somewhere closer to Mother Nature.

Sulabh

June 04-10, 2018

05

education

Sanitation Gets A Research Chair Two-day national seminar being organised to discuss Action Sociology and its impact on society

SSB BUREAU

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n the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat Mission, a Chair devoted to the study of sociology of sanitation has been set up at a university in Bihar. The Bharti-Mandan Chair for Sociology of Sanitation was set up at the LN Mishra Mithila University for encouraging research and higher studies on the topic, Sulabh International founder Bindeshwar Pathak said.

Two-day National Seminar on “Women Empowerment” organised at LN Mithila University, Darbhanga in collaboration with Department of Sociology and Maharaja Dhiraj Kameshwar Singh Memorial was held from May 29-30, 2018.

The inaugural of the seminar was

Quick Glance Around hundred sociologists from different parts of country were present

Dr Pathak announced an initial grant of Rs 20 lakh for the Chair

Dr Pathak honoured In Darbanga by members of the Baisi Mehtar Samaj Institute

blessed by the august presence of Dr Bindeshwar Pathak. The other dignitaries were Prof. Ashok Kaul, Varanasi, Prof Chandrashekhar Singh, Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth, Prof. BK Lal, Suresh Kumar Poorve, Prof. Devnath Pathak, Dr Anil Kumar Singh, Prof. Virendra Kumar, Prof Jay Gopal, Pro Vice-Chancellor, LN Mithila University, Prof. Binod Kumar Choudhary and the presence of Eminent sociologists, academics, students from different academia and faculty and members of the university.

Speaking at the inaugural session of a two-day seminar on women’s empowerment, Dr Pathak said that the Chair has been named after eighthcentury scholar Mandan Mishra and his learned wife Bharti, whose debates with Adi Sankara mark a glorious chapter in the intellectual history of Mithila. A trained sociologist himself, Dr Pathak exhorted experts in the field to devote themselves to the study of the impact of sanitation in a society and also announced an initial grant of Rs 20 lakh for the Chair.

Around hundred sociologists from different parts of the country including Neel Ratan, B K Nagla and A K Pandey of Benaras Hindu University (BHU) participated in the seminar.

Speaking at the function, local BJP MLA Sanjay Saraogi also lauded the announcement of a chair on sociology of sanitation made by Pathak.

Known for its pioneering work in human waste management and eradication of manual scavenging, Sulabh International, a non governmental body, has been involved in a number of initiatives under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, including ensuring cleanliness at the renowned Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi which is the Prime Ministers parliamentary constituency.

Pathak has also been named the brand ambassador for Swachh Rail Mission as part of which many important railway stations across the country are being given a facelift.

Dr Pathak has narrated as to how he went on to change the society by following Gandhi’s ideals of nonviolence which eventually led into bringing a vast transformation in the lives of the untouchables, helped them to perform the rites, rituals of the Brahmins and upper caste, helped them to go to temples, to go to Varanasi, famous sacred place of Hindus, took a dip in the river Ganges, worshiped Lord Shiva and have food with Brahmin families which had never happened before in this country.

Dr Pathak also made a mention of his existing actions initiated by him to promote social security and rehabilitation of Widows of Vrindavan and Varanasi and the steps taken thereof to challenge the social norms that ostracized the widows and even

Dr Pathak said that the Chair has been named after eighth-century scholar Mandan Mishra and his learned wife Bharti

condemned them to lead a life of destitution. The life of these women has been totally changed now and they have been freed from a life of misery and seclusion.

While speaking at the seminar recalling the contribution of ancient Sanskrit scholars of Mithila Mandan Mishra and Bharti ,Dr Pathak announced setting up of “BhartiMandan Chair Of Sociology of Sanitation “ at LN Mithila University for the intensive research in the field of Sociology of Sanitation.

Dr Pathak Honoured In Darbanga

On Tuesday 29 March, a dozen members of the Baisi Mehtar Samaj Institute, in an auditorium near the Municipal Corporation, honored Dr Pathak with traditional ‘Mithali Paag’, garland, Shawal and Mithila painting.

He was heartily congratulated on the

behalf of ward no 21 whose members also visited the Sulabh organisation during their visit to Ziyarat and pilgrimage journey.

Members of Roti Bank, Blood Donor team, Pond cleaning Vivekananda Yuva Sansthan, members of the cremation team of the unclaimed dead bodies were present on the occasion.

Usha Chaumar, a liberated scavenging woman, now designated as Honorary President of Sulabh International, shared her story where she mentioned that she had the honour of working with Sulabh International in a close proximity with its Founder, Dr Bindeshwar Pathak who took a great step in liberating women like her from the demeaning task of scavenging and helped them out to lead a life that is full of dignity. Speaking on this occasion Dr Vinod Chaudhary said that Dr Bindeshwar Pathak is not a person but an institution in itself, who give inspiration to people.

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Sanitation

June 04-10, 2018

Morocco

tackling the urban challenge One-third of Moroccans without access to proper sanitation services are at high risk of waterborne diseases such as gastro-intestinal infections, malaria and typhoid

Moroccan Squat Toilet

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iddle Eastern plumbing fixture usually misidentified as a simple hole in the ground with a pair of slightly-elevated foot-rests for leverage.

Despite all of the horror stories you may have heard about squat toilets, they are usually much more hygienic and airy, in Morocco, than their western, ceramicthrone counterparts. The public, western-style toilets are filthy, often retch-worthy monuments to post-colonial decay. The fixtures frequently didn’t work and were caked with the grime of the ages.

The ones that functioned usually did so inefficiently, producing only the barest trickle of cleansing water. It was as if every filthy public restroom in every second-rate, off-brand, side-road gas station in America had been magically transported to North Africa, albeit with the curious addition of a dirty bidet.

Although, it’s hard to credit at first, the squat toilet is more than just a well-positioned hole in the ground. There is actual plumbing

Urooj fatima

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orocco has a sewage problem. This is no secret to anyone on the street or on high, and the issue is being addressed with certain urgency. In the meantime, though, raw sewage continues to run amok not only in poor, rural areas, but also in urban areas that experience high tourist traffic.

In rural provinces in Morocco, sanitation coverage is low compared to the relatively high standards of social development. To address these issues the Moroccan government has developed the Rural Water and Sanitation Project for which the World Bank has provided a $60 million IBRD loan. Within this project, a $4.42 million component specifically addresses hygiene promotion and sanitation. The World Bank has provided technical assistance to the Moroccan Government through the Sanitation, Hygiene and Wastewater Support Service (SWAT) to design the sanitation component. The technical assistance and the subsequent work by ONEP have contributed to deepening the understanding of rural hygiene and sanitation needs in Morocco. The technical assistance has also helped to clarify responsibilities in the sector and to develop decision making tools.

BACKGROUND

Morocco’s 13 million rural inhabitants have often been the focus of the national development agenda.

However, Morocco still has one of the lowest rural water supply and sanitation access rates in the Middle East and North Africa: 56% for rural water supply and 35% for rural sanitation. This means that nearly two in three rural Moroccans do not have access to technologies such as the pour flush latrine (pictured here).

To address these issues the Moroccan government has developed the Rural Water and Sanitation Project.

In 2005, the World Bank provided a $60 million IBRD loan in support of the project. Within this project, a $4.42 million component specifically addresses hygiene promotion and sanitation.

SANITATION AND HYGIENE SERVICES: A STRUCTURAL GAP

The Office National de l’Eau Potable (ONEP) is responsible for water supply in the whole country. It also is responsible for sewerage facilities in some cities. In rural areas, however, it only has a mandate for water supply service.

Municipalities are responsible for

The typical Moroccan squat toilet in its natural habitat

involved. A constant water level is maintained in the toilet bowl with a relatively simple system of pipes and floats, all of which is hidden from view below ground level and in the wall. Of course, in Morocco, as in many other countries, flushing is achieved with that bucket of water which is conveniently placed in the stall. Pick it up and pour it down the drain. Afterwards, courtesy demands that you refill the bucket from the dripping tap. rural sanitation, but they lack both the financial and technical capacity. As a result, there is a tendency to neglect hygiene and sanitation in rural areas.

In order to reap all of the benefits provided by safe water, the World Bank is supporting Morocco in its effort to raise awareness about sanitation and hygiene among key stakeholders. The objective is to give rural sanitation a higher ranking on the national agenda, leading to an increase in coverage, more reliable operation, and improved hygiene education.

FOCUS ON DEMAND

Due to limited understanding of the benefits, low demand is often a critical issue for rural sanitation projects.

To guarantee suitability and sustainability of sanitation interventions, the Rural Water and Sanitation Project pays special

Sanitation

June 04-10, 2018 attention to assessing and meeting demand at all levels.

The project focuses on how to expand sanitation services while maintaining a sound financial basis for financially autonomous operators.

The sanitation component of the project is thus committed to: Consider demand at the household and community level; • Focus on health improvement for the people living in households and in the villages; • Promote community participation; • Consider social, cultural and religious matters as part of the project; • Cover all the sanitation needs, including excreta, grey water (sullage) and wastewater; also drainage where appropriate; • Consider the present separate management of grey water and toilet waste as an advantage; • Prioritize any opportunity for direct economic benefits, such as reuse, either from effluent or side-products (compost).

At the institutional level, the project is: • Applying technical incentives: adequate sullage management is an eligibility criterion for individual household connection to the water supply network; • Applying financial incentives, such as Output-Based Aid (OBA) using explicit performance-based subsidies to support the delivery of basic services; • Calibrating operator’s commitment towards sanitation according to their responsibility and capacities: in particular they should respond where volumes are important and on-site sanitation is not feasible; they should also play a role in the promotion of the appropriate use of water.

Quick Glance Sanitation cover low in rural provinces of Morocco

Mass migration from the villages gave rise to ‘tin cities’

Rural sanitation given higher priority in national agenda

awareness and clarify the challenges to be met in rural sanitation; • Point out the benefits, to the population and to institutions, provided by sanitation; • Define the responsibilities of all stakeholders, so as to confirm their mandate and simplify their commitment and management. • Develop decision-making tools for stakeholders, both on methodology (participatory approach) and appropriate technologies (low-cost and on-site sanitation).

ONEP has adopted the decision tools and is committed to realize pilot projects in rural sanitation in parallel with water supply projects. Moreover, ONEP has identified the benefit of including the sanitation component in its participatory approach for water supply projects, since it contributes to the quality of service it provides to the users. ONEP is also developing information tools to promote the good use of water, which is directly related to good sanitation. The SWAT technical assistance forms the basis for an effective implementation of the $4.42 million sanitation component of the Rural Water supply and Sanitation Project.

Condition OF Toilets In Morocco Flush toilets are a luxury in a country struggling with water shortages. Outside midrange and top-end hotels and restaurants, toilets are mostly of the squat variety. Squat toilets feature a tap, hose or container of water for sluicing – the idea being to wash yourself (with your left hand) after performing. There’s often no toilet paper (papier hygiénique) so keep a supply with you. Don’t throw the paper into the toilet as the plumbing is often dodgy; instead discard it in the bin provided. Women will need to take along a

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

The World Bank is supporting the Moroccan government to create an enabling institutional framework to reach the sanitation MDG in rural areas. Part of this support has been through technical assistance from the Sanitation, Hygiene and Wastewater Support Service (SWAT). Specifically this assistance has helped to: • Raise

plastic bag for disposing of tampons and pads. Public toilets are rare outside the major cities. If you find a public toilet, you’ll need to bring a tip for the attendant, stout-soled shoes, and very often a nose clip.

Agriculture is responsible for 19 per cent of Morocco’s GDP, but only 15 per cent of agricultural land has access to irrigation funding sources for this important promotional work. Relative to the potential for economic growth and the relatively high standards of social development, most of the rural provinces in Morocco have very little sanitation infrastructure. This high level of social development implies great potential, not only for the improvement of sanitation, but also for its impact, in the coming years.

WIDENING PARTICIPATION

The technical assistance and the subsequent work by ONEP have contributed to deepening the understanding of rural hygiene and sanitation needs in Morocco. However, there is still much to achieve before reaching the Millennium Development Goals. The SWAT technical assistance has identified complementary projects including raising awareness among the population, capacity building, and support for communities in the construction and operation of individual onsite sanitation facilities.

The Government of Morocco is presently identifying potential

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About Water Quality in Morocco

Morocco, water supply and quality can be the deciding factor in the survival of a community. Today, 83 percent of Moroccans have access to improved drinking water, and 72 percent have access to improved sanitation. However, in a steadily growing population, the percentages of Moroccans lacking such access are faced with many challenges.

In just half a century, Morocco’s population has more than tripled from 10 million to 32 million. Mass migrations have brought more than half the population to cities, giving rise to “tin cities,” or slums.

These communities are located on the outskirts of urban areas, where access to clean water, electricity and sanitation services does not exist.

The one-third of Moroccans without access to proper sanitation services are at high risk of waterborne diseases such as gastrointestinal infections, malaria and typhoid.

Agriculture is responsible for 19 percent of Morocco’s GDP, but only 15 percent of agricultural land has access to irrigation. Due to a lack of sanitation services and inadequate wastewater treatment, the already scarce water resources for irrigation are often contaminated.

Between 2004 and 2011, Morocco’s own Cities Without Slums urban development campaign created 100,000 new housing units in different parts of the country, providing 1.5 million people with access to water, power and sanitation.

In 2016, USAID provided 336 Moroccan families with information on the best sanitation and hygiene practices. It also rehabilitated the retaining walls of a community’s water reservoir to prevent contamination.

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Seminar

June 04-10, 2018

Sustainable development goal

Dr Pathak, Flag-bearer of Sanitation, Health & Hygiene Equal access to essential health, clean water and sanitation services continue to be a priority for India

Quick Glance Dainik Bhaskar organised a seminar on sustainable development goals

Dr Pathak is Mahatma Gandhi of modern India, said Deepak Dwivedi

Dr Pathak successfully changed the point of view of citizen - J.S. Rajput

Priyanka Tiwari

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he Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), otherwise known as the Global Goals, are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.

These 17 Goals build on the success of the Millennium Development Goals, while including new areas such as climate change, economic inequality, innovation, sustainable consumption, peace and justice, among other priorities. The goals are interconnected-often the key to success on one will involve tackling issues more commonly associated with another.

Today, we discuss the issues like development, sustainable development, education, women’s security in the country, even if we are active in it or not. People prefer fields like medical, engineering and IAS-PCS after their studies, but different from all these things Dr Pathak has chosen the social service.

He sacrificed his life for the service of

the society. Today, the whole country salutes this great personality. These things were discussed at the seminar organised by Dainik Bhaskar’s Chief Editor Deepak Dwivedi.

He said such efforts should not be limited to Dr Pathak, the stream of his efforts continues to flow, and for this newspaper have a role to play. Dainik Bhaskar has taken up the responsibility, to give voice and power to every effort and sacrifice made in the development of the nation.

Dainik Bhaskar newspaper has organised a seminar on “Sustainable Development Goals And India’s Socio Economic Development”.

The occasion is graced by, Dr Bindeshwar Pathak, founder of Sulabh International Social Service Organisation, Justice Navniti

Prasad Singh, former Chief Justice Kerala High Court, Dr JS Rajput, representative to the Executive Board of UNESCO, Dinesh Jain, President of Legal & Corporate Affairs UFLEX Ltd and Deepak Dwivedi, Chief Editor & Director Dainik Bhaskar were also present.

Dainik Bhaskar will take forward the work of Dr Pathak: Deepak Dwivedi

Dainik Bhaskar’s Chief Editor Deepak Dwivedi honoured Dr Pathak by calling him ‘Mahatma Gandhi of modern India’. He has given a new direction to the country through his social service. Dwivedi said that Gandhiji had seen a dream, but his dream was fulfilled by Dr Pathak.

Newspapers have the task of reaching the work of great dignitaries to every

Dr Pathak’s work is commendable and highly appreciable. He thought and acted about those sections of the society about whom Mahatma Gandhi used to think

section of the society and Dainik Bhashkar takes responsibility for this.

He further said, “We all have been gathered here as the new history of modern India is beginning and we have the responsibility of writing it to the people, which will be a role model for the next generation. The flagbearer of Gandhi and Ambedkar’s dream, about who people read only in books. These great dignitaries have contributed towards the country, who will write about them, who will tell the next generation of it, it’s a responsibility of newspapers. We have taken the responsibility to carry forward this campaign. We have spent some time with Dr Pathak, he told us about many aspects related to his life and also discussed where he wants to take his efforts and work. Dainik Bhaskar takes the responsibility to make sure such efforts should reach to every nook and corner.

Today the work of the newspaper is not only to publish good news but to connect with the quality, authenticity and activation of the news is a new dimension of modern journalism. With this, we will follow the footstep of Dr Pathak and help the nation to move in the direction of development.

I feel honoured to be called as Gandhi of Modern India by Dainik Bhaskar: Dr Pathak

The discerning and knowledgeable person knows as well as I do that it is sanitation, more than anything else that lays the foundation of all socio-economic development.

Sanitation, along with public health and hygiene, is the basic condition for all sustainable development. It is for this reason that the Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations in 2015 calls for ensuring availability and sustainable

Seminar

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country. He thought and acted about those sections of the society about whom Mahatma Gandhi used to think. He further said that hygiene and health are very important in the continuous development of any country and it can be started from home and school itself. If children are educated about cleanliness and health in childhood, then it will not take time to change the condition of the country.

management of clean water and sanitation for all people within the next 15 years.

In his address, Dr Bindeshwar Pathak said that I feel very proud and honoured to be called as Gandhi of Modern India by Dainik Bhaskar Newspaper. I am a follower of Gandhi and have been working to bring his work to the society while connecting it with technology. I have been on this mission for 50 years, started this journey at the age of 25. I don’t have words to thank Dainik Bhaskar for taking up the responsibility to carry forward our mission of sanitation and hygiene. Dainik Bhaskar told me that Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar had fulfilled their mission only with the support of the media in Kolkata. In the same way, we want to connect with your mission and reach it in every section of the country.

He told how his grandmother made him eat cow dung and Ganga water as he touched an untouchable lady. Since then, that incident never left my mind. After completing the studies, I joined the Bihar Gandhi Committee. I took the initiative

to eradicate the untouchability and to eliminate manual scavenging.

For this, I stayed in Balmiki colony for three days and carried the night soil. I have done the task of fulfilling the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and Baba Saheb Ambedkar. I have invented ‘Two-pit pour-flush’ Sulabh toilet to eliminate the practice of manual scavenging. Countries like Africa, USA, China, Australia doesn’t even have this technology. That is why I do not talk about India alone, but to make world clean and healthy.

Sanitation and Health Main Element in the development of the country- Navniti Prasad Singh

On this occasion, Retired Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court, Navniti Prasad Singh said that the work done by Dr Pathak is commendable and highly appreciable.

He gave a new direction to the

Dr Pathak Successfully Changed The Point Of View Of Citizen - J.S. Rajput

Dr JS Rajput, Representative of the UNESCO Executive Board, said that till now I only knew about his work. I use to think that books can be written on his works and great achievements, have been written and should be written.

If I have to say one line about his achievements, I would say that he worked successfully to change the point of view and attitude of the citizens. In 1916, Mahatma Gandhi has talked about the cleanliness of Indian Railways, there has been very little change in it, but Dr Pathak has made a big difference in the country through his work. You can’t change people’s point of view towards an issue or situation without education.

Any new changes can begin from schools, university only. We did not pay proper attention to the basic

Dainik Bhaskar has taken up the responsibility, to give voice and power to every effort and sacrifice made in the development of the nation

essence of our education. If given, our ponds, rivers and winds would not have been polluted.

It is said here that when a person is born, four debts are associated with his birth, dev rn, pitr rn, rshi rn aur maanav rn (your gratitude towards society). Our society is a dutiful society, then how did it happen that we all are moving in the same direction which was not in the interest of the society. To understand this, I find that sentence of Gandhi ji is very suitable that nature has the resources to fulfill all the needs, but not for the sake of the greed of a single person. We were using nature’s resources according to our greed, which is the result that we are facing pollution and health problems today. We have to return to our culture, and then only we can move this campaign forward.

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Science & Technology

June 04-10, 2018

summer with google

Google rolls out summer campaign to make kids Internet Awesome Google has also partnered with “Kidzania” to set-up a “Summer with Google” experience zone Ians

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oogle India on Monday announced a fun, yet educational summer campaign that will help children across the country spend more time learning and making new discoveries, as well as teaching them how to become responsible explorers of the web.

As part of the campaign, named #SummerWithGoogle, Google assigned an activity to the kids. They will release one assignment every week for four weeks, the tech giant said in a blogpost.

The assignment ranges from exploring the country that is home to all the Pandas in the world on Google

Earth, to saying ‘Gracias’ and ‘Por Favor’ as they learn phrases in Spanish and other languages on Google Translate, to taking dramatic virtual tours of museums to make their own gallery on Google Arts & Culture; and ultimately building their very own app

to share their summer experience.

Each assignment will also carry questions on the four fundamental codes of being Internet Awesome and teach the young internet explorers a lesson or two on how to be -- Internet Smart, Internet Alert, Internet Strong, Internet Kind and Internet Brave, the blogpost said.

Google has also partnered with “Kidzania” to set-up a “Summer with Google” experience zone where kids will be encouraged to take a virtual tour and learn about the essentials of being safe on the Internet.

“As a parent myself, it has always been a challenge for me to engage my kids meaningfully, summer after summer. And the struggle is real

Saraswati river

To Revive Mythological River, Religion And Technology Go Together The Haryana government is working in a mission mode for the revival and rejuvenation of Saraswati river Jaideep Sarin

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ts religious mindset was never in doubt, but the first BJP government in Haryana is using technology, including space technology, to execute its project reviving and rejuvenating the mythological Saraswati river that is once said to have flowed through areas that now make up the state.

The state government, which is on a “mission mode” to execute the project and has sanctioned over Rs 50 crore (over $7 million) for this, has roped in national agencies like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) and the Geological Survey of India (GSI) to speed up work in this direction.

“The Haryana government is working in a mission mode for the revival and rejuvenation of Saraswati river. The river is a national heritage of India,” Haryana Art and Cultural Affairs Minister Kavita Jain said here.

“The Saraswati river is part of our rich cultural heritage and coordinated efforts are needed for its revival that would go a long way in making India Vishvaguru (world leader) once again.

ISRO has been working on Saraswati river for the last 20 years,” Jain said.

The state government has signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for the investigation of a palaeochannel (the remnant of an inactive river or stream that has been filled or buried by sediment) and study of hydrological aspects relating to the Saraswati river.

The agreement has been signed by the Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board (HSHDB), ISRO and NIH. The MoU envisages customising specific geo-spatial solutions for a multi-disciplinary GIS (geographic information system) database and design and development of the Saraswati Palaeochannel web portal.

The water balance study of the Saraswati river’s catchment ara would be done through hydro-geological modeling and geo-spatial techniques.

This would be carried out in four phases from 2018 to 2020.

“It is a matter of pride that Adi Badri (in what is now Haryana) is the originating point of this river. In the ancient times, our Vedas were also written at the river banks. The Saraswati river, after passing through (what is now) Haryana, got submerged in (what is now) Rajasthan,” Jain said.

The tell-tale signs on the ground of the Saraswati river and the religiously-minded BJP government

for many more parents,” said Sunita Mohanty, Director, Trust and Safety, Google India.

“Therefore, we partnered with our product leaders to bring parents, a series of activities they can do along with their kids to make this a memorable summer,” she added.

On completing the tasks, upto 100 kids and their parents/ guardians, from across the country will get the opportunity to attend the summer camp with Google at Google Gurgaon or Hyderabad office, where they will get the first-hand experience of Google technology, indulge in fun activities and participate in quizzes.

“The entire campaign will combine real world projects with virtual learning experiences and will equip kids with the right digital skills so when they return to school post this summer, they are Internet Awesome,” Mohanty noted.

The assignments can be accessed on #SummerWithGoogle website and Google’s social media, the statement said.

are giving shape to the revival efforts of the hitherto invisible river. The BJP government was, in April 2015, buoyed by the “discovery” of water at just seven feet in Rohlaheri village of Haryana’s Yamunanagar district during digging work to find the mythological river.

After having made its intention clear that it will go all out to dig the Saraswati river, the government headed by Chief MInister Manohar Lal Khattar had issued directions that the excavation work of Saraswati river from its origin district to Kurukshetra, the land of the epic Mahabharata, be completed on a “war footing”.

The river, named the goddess of learning in Hindu religion, finds mention in ancient scriptures like the Rig Veda, the Mahabharata, the Ramayana and others, giving credence to the belief that it existed during ancient times. The state government has made a provision to keep books, research papers and other material related to the Saraswati river in district libraries of Kurukshetra, Kaithal and Yamunanagar so that information pertaining to the river reaches the masses. Digital libraries are also being set up in districts.

Khattar, who has been a Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) ideologue, and other BJP ministers have been quite inclined to dig up the mystery behind the mythological river, given its significance in Hindu culture.

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Historic Occasion

The Harmony of New Equations Vrindavan widows watch movie in Delhi organised Dr Pathak in a rare show of unity

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t was a historic occasion when Sulabh International, led by its founder Dr Bindeshwar Pathak, organised for the erstwhile untouchable scavengers now Brahmins along with their former masters and the widows residing in Vrindavan, to view together the

film “PARMANU” which is based on India’s first nuclear test, in the multiplex PVR, Chanakyapuri.

Dr Pathak made the dreams of Gandhi and Ambedkar come true as they all viewed the film sitting side by side and sharing their joy and excitement together.

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Feature

June 04-10, 2018

Dinesh Kumar

One Man Media House

53-year-old man has been spending three hours daily writing his newspaper with his own hands for the past 17 years

Dinesh Kumar, an ice-cream vendor, writes news on different subjects

He does not own or use laptop, iPad, printing machine or a smart-phone

n S. Shukla

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n the world of digital media, he is a ‘one man’ media house. He collects and investigates news, writes them on a tabloid-sized white paper sheet with his own hand, circulates the hand-written singlepage newspaper on a bicycle. He also sticks his newspaper as posters on public places or at the houses of the lawmakers to seek justice for victims.

Dinesh Kumar, an ice-cream vendor, writes news on subjects ranging from atrocities against Dalits, poor and downtrodden to women empowerment and burning local issues, mainly crime stories affecting the common man. He does not own or use a laptop, iPad, printing machine or a smart-phone but uses a black sketch to pen down his newspaper.

A resident of Gandhi Colony in Muzaffarnagar, 53-year-old Dinesh Kumar has been spending three hours daily writing his newspaper with his own hands for the past 17 years to carry on with his passion, which never died down even though he had to quit studies after Class VIII when his father failed to pay up his fees.

After writing the newspaper, called ‘Vidhya Darshan’, he would get Xeroxed as many copies as required, depending on the importance of issues he is raising in that edition, and pedal down to every nook and corner of the city to circulate.

Unknowingly, Dinesh touched a rare feat of late Mahadev Desai, a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, who used to write Gandhi’s newspaper with his own hands when jailed. While ‘Musalman’, India’s only hand-written Urdu newspaper has a team to produce the daily newspaper, Dinesh carries on the same job single-handedly.

“I always wanted to do something for the poor people by raising their voice. But my dreams were shattered when I had to drop out of the school to support the family financially,” admitted he.

But the fire inside Dinesh did not die down with the family responsibilities.

After doing many odd jobs, he bought a bicycle and started selling ice-creams, candies and chocolates around the city

Quick Glance

An avid reader, Dinesh also worked as hawker and still sells other newspapers

in Muzaffarnagar. His petty profession gave him an opportunity to know the city better than many others.

An avid reader, Dinesh also worked as a hawker and still sells other newspapers when he circulates his own hand-written newspaper. “I never waste time. I would read newspapers and books to update myself on current news and happenings around the city, nation and globe,” claimed he.

The opportunity to carry on with his passion came sooner than he

expected. In 2008, a Blade Man was on the prowl in Shamli of Muzaffarnagar district slitting throats of innocent children. There were all sorts of rumours milling around the city.

People were so scared that they had stopped sending their children out of their houses after sunset.

Local media were publishing all sorts of sensational stories related to the Blade Man and his victims. But no one was helping the police or alerting the public on the imminent dangers

A resident of Gandhi Colony in Muzaffarnagar has been spending three hours daily writing his newspaper with his own hands for the past 17 years

and how to nab the person behind it.

“Since I used to roam around the city, I collected first-hand information and facts about incidents happening in the city. To circulate my findings to more and more people, I scribbled my story on a sheet of paper and got it disseminated in the affected areas after getting it Xeroxed. It had a tremendous impact. Since then it became a daily routine,” recalled Dinesh about his tryst with journalism and beginning of the hand-written newspaper.

“A journalist’s duty is to teach people to be brave and fight for their rights and not to instill fear in them,” he often tells his readers. People, Police and district authorities took up his writing seriously and the Blade Man who was on the prowl suddenly disappeared.

Long back he had raised the issue of security of women and girls travelling in buses and other transport modes and suggested for installation of CCTV cameras. The government followed his suggestions. He was the first to suggest for installation of CCTVs in classrooms to deal with the mass copying menace.

“Power of pen and sensible suggestions/solutions are always welcomed to check wrongdoings and for the betterment of the society,” opined he.

Once the Blade Man menace was over, Dinesh started raising local issues plaguing the district and affecting residents by writing with his own hands on a broader tabloid sheet.

Soon his hand-written newspaper became so popular that people would wait for their copies to read his views and opinion on current local issues.

His writings are not generally news only but he writes beyond the news offering solutions to tackle the problem. He will raise issues which

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June 04-10, 2018

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Tripura

the local and national daily will not even dare to touch.

“My success story revolves around common issues people face on daily basis. People will now come to me with their problems to highlight their plight in my newspaper so that authorities initiate immediate action,” claimed he.

But how he runs his hand-written newspaper without any fund or advertisement support? “I don’t accept any donation or receive funds from anyone. I use my savings from little earning to buy pen and paper.

Sometimes some generous people help me by gifting a pen or a pack of white paper sheets,” claimed Dinesh.

Despite being not so literate and well-equipped, Dinesh investigative skills, thought process and ability to give an in-depth spin to any topic is far more mature than many local journalists. “He has no degree in journalism and is only Class VIII pass out, yet his writings are no less than a matured editorial. We are really amazed at his in-depth knowledge of the subject and writing skills to pen down an editorial many of us would not even attempt,” said Sachin Kumar, a local journalist.

Dinesh always keeps a good company to empower his insatiable quest for knowledge. His well-wishers always keep guided and encourage him to continue with his passion of hand-writing a newspaper to serve the society.

“Only a passionate person like him would accomplish such a challenging and tiring job of writing a newspaper from his own hands and then circulating it by spending money from his own pocket without any financial support from anyone,” said V.K. Singh, a social activist.

At a time when the majority of journalists have sold off their pen to buy luxuries of life, this man has kept alive journalism in the real sense. “My remuneration is my satisfaction which comes when authorities offer help after reading my articles,” said Dinesh.

Impressed by his deepest thoughts and writing skills, Dinesh was offered stringer ship by many well-known newspapers but he politely turned them down saying that ‘passion has no cost’. Like an honest and humble journalist, he often tells his wellwishers that the society has given him a responsibility and he would like to discharge that duty first rather fulfill his own dreams.

India’s gateway to asean look east, act east Highlighting the investment potential of resource rich states in the region, the Vice President called on Union and State Governments to work hand-in-hand n Chandrani Banerjee

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onnectivity with the ASEAN countries can enhance economic integration in North-Eastern regions, this statement of the Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu has been welcomed by the students of the north-eastern region in Delhi.

Speaking to Sulabh, Romeo Himar, Convenor of Manipur Tribal forum in Delhi said, “I am glad that prominent people are visiting northeast and want a greater connectivity. This gives us huge hope”.

The Vice President was addressing the gathering at the convocation of Tripura University in Agartala. The Governor of Tripura, Prof. Tathagata Roy and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

“Enhanced focus on connectivity along with greater economic integration of our North East with ASEAN is crucial for the long-term progress, stability and better quality of life for all in the Northeastern region will bring in change” said Naidu. Experts feel that the ASEAN countries are Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Indonesia and others could be good destinations for northeasterners.

Echoing similar views about the Vice President’s statement, Dr Amarjeet Singh, Head of North Eastern Studies in Jamia Millia Islamia, said, “This is something very good. If the northeasterners could get support from government to expand their trade and connections with ASEAN countries it would greatly help the state”. Further, the Vice President said that the North-Eastern region is endowed with abundant natural resources, but difficult terrain, dispersed habitations, poor connectivity and inadequate infrastructure have been obstacles in realizing its true potential. The Union Government is keen to facilitate border trade between our North-Eastern States

The Vice President, M. Venkaiah Naidu addressing the Convocation of Tripura University, in Agartala, Tripura

and our neighbouring countries by setting up more border trade points and border haats, he added.

Highlighting the investment potential of resource rich Northeastern states, the Vice President called on Union and State Governments to work together to make it a success.

Stressing on the need to improve Connectivity to bring North East region into the mainstream, the Vice President said that such a move would promote tourism, business and people-to-people contact.

Corridors of connectivity should be converted into corridors of economic growth, he added.

The Vice President called on all Northeastern states to work on Joint Ventures and collaborate in areas of core competence such as horticulture, floriculture, traditional medicine, etc with ASEAN countries.

It will open-up new opportunities of employment and self- employment to the youth of this region, he added.

The Vice President said that education must bring out the best in each one of us. He further said that one must ensure that education

system inculcates the strongest ethical and moral values and fosters the spirit of excellence. Education must also promote inclusive outlook, tolerance and compassion, he added.

Reminding the students about Mahatma Gandhiji’s views on education, the Vice President said that literacy is not the end of education not even the beginning. It is one of the means whereby man and women can be educated. Literacy in itself is no education, he added.

“An education which does not teach us to discriminate between good and bad, to assimilate the one and eschew the other, is a misnomer”, he said, quoting Mahatma Gandhi.

The Vice President asked the graduating students to shape a system that will respond to the learning needs of the young population. He further said that we shouldn’t settle for anything but the best and you must seize these newfound opportunities for growth and development. You must think and act innovatively and creatively to make a mark in life and never hesitate to take risks and explore unchartered territories, he added.

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Global Hero

June 04-10, 2018

Desmond Tutu seizing hope from despair The South African teacherturned-priestturned-rightsadvocate is a shining example of virtue in activism

n Parsa Venkateshwarrao Jr

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e was born in a poor black family on October 7, 1931.

His father was an elementary school principal and his mother cleaned and cooked in a school for the blind. He went to the Johannesburg Bantu High School where his teachers were dedicated and inspiring, and they instilled hope and optimism in the children. Tutu contacted tuberculosis in his teens and took a year-and-a-half to recuperate. He wanted to become a doctor because he wanted to find a

Quick Glance Tutu was born in an ordinary black family

He could not pursue medical carrier because he did not have funds

He won the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1984 for his work against aparheid

Tutu gave up teaching when government placed obstacles for black education, and he chose to become a priest cure for tuberculosis. He could not pursue a degree in medicine because of the straitened circumstances of his family and instead went to Pretoria Bantu Normal College after he passed out of school in 1950. He got a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Africa in 1954 and went to teach English and history to his alma mater, Johannesburg Bantu High School. In an interview, Tutu said that he wanted to be to his students what his teachers were to him – inspiring.

He recalled his teachers in school: “… many of the people who taught us were very dedicated and they inspired you to want to emulate them and really to become all that you could become…

They gave you the impression that, in fact, yeah, the sky is the limit. You can, even with all of the obstacles that are placed in your way you can reach out to the stars.”

When in 1953, the Nationalist Party government, which had come to power in 1948 and had unleashed

apartheid, brought the Bantu Education Act, which reduced funds for the education of the blacks so that they did not move up and they were restricted to acquiring basic skills, Tutu gave up teaching in 1957. He turned to priesthood as a vocation.

He joined St. Peter’s Theological College in Johannesburg. He became a priest in the Anglican Church in 1961. In 1962 he went to England to pursue theological studies and got his master’s from King’s College in London. He returned to South Africa to teach at the Federal Theological Seminary at Alice in Eastern Cape and served as chaplain in Fort Hare. He moved to the University of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland in Roma in 1970. He went back to England to become the associate director of Theological Educational Fund of the World Council of Churches in Kent.

He was appointed Anglican dean of Johannesburg in 1975. He became from this time onward a prominent

and eloquent anti-apartheid spokesman and activist. He wrote to South African prime minister in 1976 after he became the Bishop of Lesotho that if apartheid is not ended there would be dire consequences. He later recalled that he knew even then that racial inequality had to end and that there was no alternative to it. He said in an interview: “So, I never doubted that ultimately we were going to be free, because ultimately I knew there was no way in which a lie could prevail over the truth, darkness over light, death over life.”

In 1984 Desmond Tutu received the Nobel Prize for Peace, which gave a huge fillip to the fight against apartheid. The Nobel citation said that the award was not just recognition of Tutu and the South African Council of Churches of which he was the leader, but it was also recognition of “all individuals and groups in South Africa who, with their concern for human dignity, fraternity and democracy, incite the admiration of the world.”

In 1985, Tutu became the Bishop of Johannesburg and in 1986 he became the Archbishop of Cape Town, the highest position in the South African Anglican Church. He was named the

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June 04-10, 2018

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He did not lose hope in the goodness of human beings despite witnessing the most atrocious acts of cruelty

president of All Africa Conference of Churches in 1987.

Apartheid ended in 1983 and Nelson Mandela was elected the president of Africa in 1994. It was Tutu who introduced president Mandela to the nation. Mandela appointed him chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to find out the atrocities committed on both sides during the apartheid era.

He had officially retired in the late 1990s but he continued to be active in the cause of tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, climate change and the right of the terminally ill to die with dignity. In 2007 he joined the group of Elders, including former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Anan, former Ireland president and head of the United Nations Commission for Human Rights (UNHCR) Mary Robinson and former US president Jimmy Carter, to support human rights and world peace.

Tutu had never lost hope through all the struggles and he remains a sunny optimist despite looking down the abysses of despair and cruelty.

He once said, “Despite all of the ghastliness in the world, human beings are made for goodness. The ones that are held in high regard are not the militarily powerful, nor even

economically prosperous. They have a commitment to try and make the world a better place.”

Years before the end of apartheid and before he would head the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Tutu said in his acceptance speech of the Nobel Peace Prize: “When will we learn that human beings are of infinite value because they have been created in the image of God, and that it is a blasphemy to treat them as if they were less than this and to do so ultimately recoils on those who do this? In dehumanising others, they are themselves dehumanised.

Perhaps oppression dehumanizes the oppressor as much as, if not more than, the oppressed. They need each other to become truly free, to become human. We can become human only in fellowship, in community, in koinonia, in peace.”

Tutu has been the rare leader in the contemporary world who has used his position as a religious leader, a priest, to fight for justice for all human beings.

As he was in South Africa, he carried the struggle there. But by raising his voice against apartheid in South Africa he has inspired others to raise voice against injustice in other parts of the world. Generally, people are suspicious of men of religion because many of them most of time are busy promoting their religion. Tutu has instead fought the universal battle of human rights with the weapon of religious values

Birth name Desmond Mpilo Tutu Born

7 October 1931 (age 86)

Klerksdorp, Western Transvaal, South Africa

Spouse

Nomalizo Leah Shenxane(m. 1955)

Education

King’s College London

Alma mater King’s College London Signature

of love and fellowship.

Many a time while conducting the sessions of Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Tutu would break down and cry uncontrollably as he heard tales of utmost cruelty and hatred.

But the experience did not make him bitter. He did not hate the whites for the many racial crimes and he did not condone the blacks for indulging in violence unable to bear injustice. He saw the need for the whites and blacks to forgive each other if there is to be a future for the people of South Africa.

Tutu used his eloquence which came to him naturally as a teacher first and then as a priest to emphasise that there is no virtue in strife and there can be no better end than peace among all human beings. He could have easily become a much revered black politician in South Africa and he could have climbed to the highest position. But he did not opt for the easy way. He chose to remain a man of religion and who confined himself to preaching the importance of a virtue in leading a happy life. He fought for justice, for racial equality but he did so through the power of words and through the message of love and togetherness of human beings.

Tutu’s greatest achievement is that he attained a position of leadership through the causes he fought for and he did not show any trace of ambition in all the years as he was given all the important positions in the church hierarchy in South Africa. Though he fought mainly in South Africa, he did not forget his obligation to human beings across the world.

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June 04-10, 2018

urooj fatima

Keep close to Nature’s heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods.

Wash your spirit clean

Writer is an emerging journalist and a post-graduate in Media Governance from Jamia Millia Islamia

VIEWPOINT

Crush Ocean Plastic #WorldOceansDay

John Muir

A Celebration Of Hope Cancer hangs over the minds and hearts of most people as a death sentence

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here’s an epidemic in the world today, one that seeps into every level of the social strata. Education is no protection, nor is wealth, and while there are ways to reduce the possibility that you’ll be one of the almost 2 million people per year that are affected by it, the causes of this plague are only poorly understood. Every year 450 men and women out of every 100,000 are diagnosed with one of the dozens of kinds of cancer, and 171 men and women die from it. Cancer Survivor Day is for those who have faced off against this most dreaded of ailments and risen again to live full happy lives.

Cancer Survivor Day was established to recognize and celebrate those who have battled cancer and won, and to help bring hope to those still battling this terrible disease.

Cancer hangs over the minds and hearts of most people as a death sentence, and the reaction in saying someone you know has it is palpable. But both those suffering from Cancer and their families need to know that it is far from helpless. Treatment is getting more effective, and there are groups around the world that get together to help the Cancer patient and their families make it through the very long and hard road that is treatment and recovery. Cancer Survivor Day is also dedicated to helping to raise funds and awareness for cancer research and treatment.

The fight isn’t over, in fact, it’s just heating up and cancer is in the cross-hairs.

Editor-in-Chief

Kumar Dilip Edited, Printed and Published by: Monika Jain on behalf of Sulabh Sanitation Mission Foundation, owned by Sulabh Sanitation Mission Foundation Printed at: The Indian Express Limited A - 8, Sector -7, NOIDA (UP) Published at: RZ - 83, Mahavir Enclave, Palam - Dabri Road, New Delhi - 110045 (India) Corporate Office: 819, Wave Silver Tower, Sector - 18, NOIDA (UP) Phone: +91-120-2970819 Email: editor@sulabhswachhbharat.com, ssbweekly@gmail.com

It’s the global responsibility of saving the ocean and its creatures living in it for making an equal and natural balance of life on the earth

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his is a time for people around our blue planet to celebrate and honour the ocean, which connects us all. Working together, we can and will protect our shared ocean.

There are many reasons why the ocean is vital us. But why do we love it? Is it because of the spiritual awakening and calm the ocean brings us? Are we drawn to it because we need it, or do we just love its everlasting waves? I love the ocean because of the beautiful creatures living in it and its mesmerizing waters, constantly changing colour from deep hues of blue to crystal sea greens.

I firmly believe we should protect the ocean and its inhabitants. That is what World Ocean Day is about. It is a single day in the year, to really think about how much the oceans have given us. Incredible experiences and (yes) food are just a few things we have been gifted from the oceans.

It’s about thanking the sea for all the gifts it has brought us.

Saving our ocean is the responsibility of each and every person living on the earth and not only one is responsible for it. It’s the global responsibility of saving the ocean and its creatures living in it for making an equal and natural balance of life on the earth. Do you know that 3/4th part of our whole earth is full of only water and we have to have our earth water and marine lives from the danger of global warming. World Oceans Day has been established as a big step (with the association of the Ocean Project and the World Ocean Network) to celebrate globally every year aiming to save the equilibrium of water and lives on the earth.

World Oceans Day was officially established by the United Nations General

Assembly in 2008 to be celebrated worldwide on 8th of June annually to resolve the ocean issues and save ocean water.

Earlier it was celebrating unofficially every year on 8th of June after the first proposal of it in 1992 by the Canada at “Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil”. It has been started celebrating on international level by the collaboration of The Ocean Project and the World Ocean Network.

The theme for this year’s World Oceans Day 2018 is to prevent plastic pollution and encourage solutions for a healthy ocean.

Oceans play a vital role in our everyday lives, providing over half the oxygen we breathe and providing food and various ecosystem services to communities across the globe. Ocean-based business and investment present well over $500 billion to the world’s economy, with more than half of the global population living within the coastal zone. As such a substantial resource, we must become better stewards of our global seas, protecting it for future generations to come.

According to the National Academy

Our oceans have an amazing ability to regenerate if they are well managed. But if future generations are to benefit from them, we will need sustained collaboration, research and innovation

June 04-10, 2018 of Sciences, every 1.98 seconds the world produces 17.6 tons of plastic.

Many single use plastics end up in the great ocean Garbage Patches, and will continue to swirl around until they are removed or degrade into smaller and smaller pieces after hundreds to thousands of years in the aquatic environment. Each year, thousands of sea turtles, seabirds, seals and other marine mammals are killed following ingestion or entanglement in plastic.

Ingested toxins from plastic debris further travel up the food chain, often threatening human health through bioaccumulation. All ecosystems are interconnected. You need to protect the ocean to protect yourself.

Plastic debris is a pervasive problem throughout the world’s oceans and the blame sits squarely on our shoulders.

The estimated 270,000 tons of plastic floating on the surface of the ocean is thought to be responsible for a whopping 700 different marine species who are threatened by its presence, as that plastic plays a role in rising rates of species extinction.

But it’s not just the large collections of plastics that kill whales and fish and cause seabirds like the albatross to starve to death that are the problem; plastic never fully biodegrades. Instead, plastics photodegrade — that is, they break down under UV light into smaller and smaller pieces to the microscopic level. As they do, any toxic additives they contain, including flame retardants, antimicrobials, and plasticizers, will be released into the marine environment. These tiny pieces break down no further and persist unseen in the deeper layers of the marine environment indefinitely.

On top of the visible problem of macroplastics, we have further reason to be critically concerned about the state of the marine ecosystem and consequently, our future on this planet. Macroplastics kill larger marine life like whales and fish, and the photodegradation of macroplastics into microplastics are killing zooplankton.

Without these animals alive and well in the marine environment, the oceans will die — and when the oceans die, we die, because one of the biggest carbon sinks will no longer function, nor will the production of half of the world’s oxygen.

Every day, more and more plastic is accumulating in our oceans. The ocean and its marine life are struggling to survive and it’s because of us. Everyone must act now. We can all make a difference by protecting and conserving all life on our water planet, for us now, and for generations to come.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar He is an Indian spiritual leader and founder of the Art of Living Foundation, which aims to relieve individual stress, societal problems, and violence.

He is an Ambassador of peace

upfront

W

hen you feel right in your mind, fresh and light and happy, then school becomes fun and you become good in your studies.

Use these points and enrich your lives - Learn to laugh at problems and do not be afraid of failures in life. You can solve a problem when you take it as a challenge. When you view it as a problem, you are part of the problem. When you view it as a challenge, then you become part of the solution. Someone who is educated, strong and flowering in his personality, should be able to laugh even when everything falls apart.

-Support the weakest in the group. If you are weak in a particular subject/sport and people come to help you, then you will not feel the weakness anymore and you start looking to support someone else who has failed. If others have the same attitude, then you will get support whenever you need it. When you give someone support, give it in such a way that the support is not felt by the other person. There is a story

05

Bengal’s Vatsana found her way to Vrindavan and life was instilled

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12

06

The Making of A Legend

Maharana Pratap

Sanitation in Britain

Maharana Pratap is revered as one of the strongest warriors India has ever seen

London’s Sewers Are A Triumph Of Victorian Engineering in 19th centurary

mission Namami Gange, the the to clean and rejuvenate on holy river, must focus urban sewage

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Vol - 2 | Issue - 24 16/71561

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Plassey, 57, Battle of Bengal Nawab Shiraz-udin the Daulah is defeated Navadweep (people mango grove in in battle took place usually think the . it was in Navadweep Murshidabad, but of mangoes in There were 99 varieties fondly by the nurtured that orchard, Nawab Pasand, Nawab. Gulab Khas, Begum Pasand, Himsagar, Anupam, Dawood Bhog, Bira, Bhabani Chauras, Mirza Pasand…

Dil Pasand, Dudhia, be to seemed The Nawabs of Bengaltradition went The highly indulgent. would ripen only that Begum Pasand the Nawab would past midnight, and up, freshened and have to be woken to taste. given the special mango instructions that There were clear only be placed on the mango could touched by fingers, one’s palm, not spots on the flesh, create could which a to be peeled using and the skin had fine wooden knife. orchard is the Adjacent to the gardens. Yes, fabled Malda mangoin Delhi selling you will find sellers but almost all mangos “from Malda”, of Malda are bought the mango groves

A GOOD NEWS

| May 28-June 03,

2018 | Price ` 5/-

WEEKLY

MANGO: OCEAN OF SWEETNESS

is of Indian origin, those fruits which the country or the Mango is among r in the south of offered to the Gods which is why, whethe fruit that can be north, it is a sacred

KING OF FRUITS

Quick Glance mango’s origin The antiquity of the can be found in Mahabharata

varieties There are around 1,500the country in of mangoes grown

Pathak planted The mango tree Amola the year can bear fruit throughout

garden in Patna

at there Mango and Amola Pathak Its biological name origin. Mango is. which means it is Indica, Indian Origin of is Mangifera The antiquity of the for the farmers practice in rituals endemic to India. over with seed money the delicious It is standard can be found in often mistakenly sell fruit’s Indian origin by traders, who and further east, Sanatana Dharma– – to offer no vegetable the Mahabharata: termed Hinduism fruit in Bangladesh Kong, China and or fruit as Prasad, unless it is of Indian Thailand, Hong Japan.

Dr Bindeshwar Pathak

Enjoy the wonderful pickles The article ‘MangoOcean of Sweetness’ made delightful reading! In the summer months when there seems little to celebrate,we find great assurance in the

17

Homework For Happiness Someone who is educated, strong and flowering in his personality, should be able to laugh even when everything falls apart about a very wise a man from Persia. He was drowning and was saved by one of his friends.

After that day, this man would find him in the marketplace or shopping complex or a party and remind him how he saved him. The wise man got frustrated and said, “Let us go to the point you saved me from. Now I am going back in. And don’t tell me again that you saved my life. I am saving myself.” So, don’t try to cash in on your support of your friends.

All they want is friendliness, not pity - Feel one with everyone in the school, including teachers. Feel that I belong to the teacher, the teacher belongs to me. Also, attend school without viewing it as public property. Feel a personal connection with the school - Make as many new friends as possible. If you can take this step, “I will make one new friend a day or this week,” then something in

letters to the editor Vrindavan Widows

OpEd

bounty of summer fruit like water melon, jamun, lichi and most importantlythe king of fruits, the mango.

As the article follows the historical, the cultural, the mythological, the medical and the economic benefits of the fruit called mango,we continue to enjoy the savor it’s exquisite taste. Let us not forget that even after the season is over, we continue to enjoy the wonderful pickles, chutney, aam papad, amchur and a lot more that the mango season gifts us with. So friends, it’s party time!

Jai Shankar Kumar, Delhi

Please mail your opinion to - ssbweekly@gmail.com or Whatsapp at 9868807712

you will blossom. Real education is how much strength and personality develops and how much you can relate yourself to the people around you. That would make your mind, intellect and heart grow into a complete personality - Your main motive in life should be to take responsibility for society, to create a better nation, a better world. Each and every youth has enormous power and the qualities of enthusiasm, fun, and readiness to create something new. It is important that this youthfulness finds place in millions of hearts to remove any corruption and fanaticism prevailing nowadays.

When you have love for your nation, achievement also happens - Take both the modern and the ancient, and move ahead. The roots are spirituality, our tradition and culture. The leaves and branches are science When you take science and spirituality together, then you will progress in life.

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Photo Feature

June 04-10, 2018

Preserving nature to protect earth

Earth is the only planet where life flourishes. And every life organism is sustained by Nature. The specialty of the planet with its two major poles is its atmosphere of water and air. All the living organisms on the planet are sustained by air, water and the climatic cover PHOTO: JAIRAM

June 04-10, 2018

The extensive use of natural resources has dented and reduced the inexhaustible reserves. This can be seen in the form of natural disasters. The clearflowing water systems have been polluted. The poison-filled air is what we breathe now. It is for this reason that there is need to protect Nature.

Life is at a crucial stage. This need is not for the sake of an individual, community or country. It is a global demand

Photo Feature

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Health

June 04-10, 2018

RamADan

What To Eat For More Energy And Endurance?

For longer lasting energy this year, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the food you eat

such as multigrain breads with paneer/ chicken/ eggs along with vegetables. Oats or multigrain atta for stuffed parantha with paneer or with egg bhurji cooked on a non-stick pan will keep your body satiated for the day.

timely, as skipping can cause serious repercussions. Fasting during Ramzan due to its strict rules does not allow intake of medicine or water during the fasting hours. Such changes in blood pressure can do a lot of harm.

Iftaar (dinner time)

Thyroid

 In the evening, open your fast with a glass of lemon water with sugar and salt in it to provide your body with the much-needed hydration.  Dates are both customary and important as they are a high source of energy and rich in vital nutrients.  People who are diabetic can avoid dates and those who are lactose intolerant can opt for soya milk instead of regular milk.  After a little gap, eat a proper meal that includes the likes of brown rice or high fibre roti with lots of vegetables salad, plus lean meat or fish or eggs.

Fasting can trigger health issues too.

Deepak Parashar, Medical Officer, Healthians, has listed the drawbacks and how can they still go onto fasting:

Diabetes IANS

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or those observing fasts during the holy month of Ramzan, it will help to start a day with a heavy and nutritious meal so that the body feels satiated for the remaining day, suggest experts.

Nutritionist Umang Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Umang World, has meal suggestions:

Sehri (early morning)

Never skip the early morning meal that is Suhoor/Sehri as that is the fundamental meal your body depends for the rest of the day. Start your day with some nuts soaked overnight, followed by a juice or milk along with fruits. To ensure that you feel full during the rest of the day, opt for high-fibre foods

A diabetic person observing Ramzan fast has a high risk to suffer fluctuations in the body glucose level. Untimely meals and improper intake of medications can cause the blood sugar levels to drop significantly and cause hypoglycaemia that leads to weakness and fainting.

For someone who is on a regular course of thyroid medication, improper or untimely intake of medication can cause hormonal imbalance in the body.

Do not skip your medicines.

Dehydration

Fasting for long hours without any food or water during the hot weather can cause a few health complications like dehydration, which can further cause weakness, lethargy, and headache.

Stomach problems

Long hours of empty stomach can cause discomfort and gastric problems like bloating, ache and gas to name a few. Do not skip your share of ‘sehri’ to avoid any stomach woes.

Cholesterol

The food consumed during fasting are usually loaded with fat and are deep fried. It can lead to an increase in the cholesterol levels of someone already suffering from cholesterol and heart problems.

Weakness

People suffering from high blood pressure have to take medicines

Not everyone can afford to stay on an empty stomach for long hours. Long hours’ deficit of food and water can also cause weakness in many.

University in Japan, exposed the mice to smoke from tobacco cigarettes for eight weeks, either by inhalation or by injecting them with a solution bubbled with smoke.

The results, published in The Journal of Physiology, also showed that the reduced level of oxygen and nutrients due to reduced blood vessels may impact the metabolism and activity levels.

Both these are risk factors for many

chronic diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes.

The study, however, could not identify the chemical responsible out of the 4,000 chemicals in a cigarette smoke that caused the muscle damage.

Researchers said that further study is needed to identify them, along with understanding the process by which they reduce the number of blood vessels.

Hypertension

Quit Smoking

Smoking Could Be Injurious To Your Leg Muscles Smoking could directly damage the muscles by reducing the number of blood vessels in leg muscles SSB BUREAU

I

f you believe that smoking affects only the lungs, then you may be wrong as a new study showed that components in cigarette smoke may directly damage the muscles in your leg as well.

According to the researchers, smoking could directly damage the muscles by reducing the number of blood vessels in leg muscles, which in turn reduce the amount of oxygen and nutrients the muscles received.

“It is vitally important that we show people that the use of tobacco cigarettes has harmful consequences throughout the body, including large muscle groups needed for daily living, and develop strategies to stop the damage triggered by the detrimental components of cigarette smoke,” said lead author Ellen Breen from the University of California-San Diego.

Using a mouse model, a team of researchers from California along with Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro in Brazil and Kochi

People

June 04-10, 2018

Book Lunch

hard to obtain. Reading, therefore, was all she could do.

Writing began as an evening exercise, under the guidance of her mother. It grew on her, resulting in 29 books and 200 titles to her name in the last 40 years. “I was forced to sit and write, however, once I began writing, I slowly but surely began to find it fun. I could play with combinations of the fifty-two letters in the Kannada alphabet and create meaningful words to express my feelings. Before long, writing became a fond habit,’ Mrs Murty writes in the book’s opening chapter: A tale of many tales.

Having studied in Kannada schools, it was only natural that Mrs Murty would choose to read and write in the same language. It was only at

the age of 50 that she began writing in English. “I don’t write with a complex style, I cannot. I write in the same English I’m using right now,” she says.

“I don’t write for fame or money, I simply want to share my experiences.”

Her stories are an amalgamation of her learning, observations and experiences. “‘Often, there is a lot of myself in my stories, whether it’s my friends or family or the people I meet.

However, the experiences that I write about are mine. I cannot disassociate from myself while writing about them”, she says in the introduction to the book. Shashi Tharoor was full of praise for her. “It’s a fable with a lesson at the end and dozens of them that make you think, smile and cry.

What’s striking is that every story feels true and you can see her sensibilities, her feelings, her opinions and at the same time an understated humanity,” said Tharoor.

Describing the book, he said it is almost like Sudha’s autobiography, “Through her writing, you understand the person she is, the life she has led and the spirit that emanates her.

It’s very direct, conversational and accessible. What you read is what you get,” added Tharoor.

Sudha returned the compliment saying she has been an avid reader of Shashi Tharoor’s books for long.

According to the firm, the access to sanitary napkins, information and knowledge on menstrual hygiene showed an immediate impact on school attendance as 97 per cent approved of attending school during menstruation.

Dr Yasmin Ali Haque, Representative, UNICEF India said:

“It is just not right that adolescent girls feel the need to miss school due to the pain or stain associated with menstruation. The partnership with Stayfree has created robust communication tools which have equipped girls and people in their ecosystem with necessary life skills on managing this issue.”

Sudha Murty, The Writer, Scores A Double Ton Mrs Murty launched her 200th published title, “Here, There and Everywhere” G Ulaganathan

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self-professed ‘ordinary person’, 67-year-old Sudha Murty is an engineer who worked hard for her skills, a philanthropist. She also dons many caps with ease and has established herself as a prolific storyteller.

On Friday evening, Mrs Murty launched her 200th published title, “Here, There and Everywhere” here with the author in conversation with MP Shashi Tharoor.

She says her only difficulty was choosing the ‘best-loved’ stories. “The stories are a combination from several books, about six of which were on the Infosys Foundation. I have been asked several times to put out a collection of stories. So I picked the most unusual ones. I tried to pick the gems, which describe experiences that are rare, so my readers can enter another world through them,” she explains.

An avid reader from a very age, Murty was raised in a village without the many amenities. There was no television and even a transistor was

21 07

Hygiene

Women In Bihar, Jharkhand More Aware Of Menstrual Hygiene Sanitary napkin brand ‘Stayfree’ manufacturer Johnson & Johnson implemented the ‘Paheli ki Saheli’ programme in Bihar and Jharkhand IANS

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round 74 per cent girls in Bihar and 76 per cent in Jharkhand used sanitary pads and cloth now, up from 50 per cent and 46 per cent in these two states respectively after the implementation of the “Paheli ki Saheli” programme, according to sanitary napkin brand ‘Stayfree’ manufacturer Johnson & Johnson.

The initiative, launched by Johnson & Johnson and supported by UNICEF for the past six years, has brought in a significant change in menstrual hygiene and better disposal practices.

As per “Stayfree”, a report by Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) 2011-12 states that only 38 per cent

menstruating girls in India spoke to their mothers about menstruation while a 2015 survey by the Education Ministry found that in 63 per cent schools in villages, teachers never discussed menstruation and how to deal with it in a hygienic manner.

“We, at Stayfree, have been continuously working towards bringing about a behavioral change with adolescent girls. And our partnership with UNICEF continues to address this reality, through educating young girls. ‘Paheli ki Saheli’ is our effort in providing education and awareness to enable girls in India not to miss their school,” said Dimple Sidhar, Vice President, Marketing, Johnson and Johnson India.

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Environment

June 04-10, 2018 UN Environment Head

Plastic Pollution Needs To Be Curbed

Each year, at least eight million tonnes of plastic end up in the oceans, the equivalent of a full garbage truck every minute

n Vishal Gulati

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lastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental threats and countries need better waste management to cope with the sheer quantity of plastic rubbish that is fouling the waters and environment, says United Nations Environment head Erik Solheim.

“Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental threats the planet is facing right now,” Solheim emphasised.

Sample these startling facts about plastic pollution: Every year the world uses 500 billion plastic bags. Fifty per cent of the plastic we use is singleuse or disposable. Each year, at least eight million tonnes of plastic end up in the oceans, the equivalent of a full

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently said it would be a crime against future generations not to take action on climate change

garbage truck every minute.

In the last decade, the world produced more plastic than in the whole of last century.

“We’re throwing up to 13 million tonnes of plastic waste into the oceans each year, and in the next decade that could double. We’re turning the oceans into a plastic soup,” the UN Under-Secretary-General told IANS in an exclusive online interview.

“This has to stop, and right now, because it’s harming marine life and ending up in our own food and water supplies. If it’s not resolved, this is a problem that will come back to bite us. It’s also a problem that’s difficult to clean up.

“We’d like to see a mass mobilisation of people around the world and big clean-ups. These are important because no amount of clean-ups can solve this issue. We need upstream change, that means a change in the way we use plastic,” Solheim, who is coming to India, a host to UN Environment-led global event World Environment Day on June 5.

“Beat Plastic Pollution”, the theme for World Environment 2018, urges governments, industry and individuals to explore sustainable alternatives and reduce the production and excessive

use of single-use plastic polluting oceans, damaging marine life and threatening human health.

“We need consumers to pause and examine their relationship with plastic. If we look at our daily lives, there is so much single-use and throwaway plastic that can easily be eliminated and replaced with sustainable alternatives. If enough people do this, it translates into colossal consumer power!” Solheim said.

For companies, he says: “Then we want industry to innovate, to find sustainable alternatives and embrace the idea of extended producer responsibility -by which a manufacturer takes responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their product.”

“I strongly believe that the companies that innovate now will be the winners of the future.”

“We also want governments to drive this change through legislation, and ensure we have strong enforcement. It’s about ensuring manufacturers have the necessary incentives in place to do the right thing.”

There’s no single, magic solution to enforce a ban on single-use pet bottles or straws. Every minute we buy one million plastic bottles globally, according to the UN Environment.

“It’s clear that we need better waste management to cope with the sheer quantity of plastic rubbish. But let’s not see this as just a litter problem.

We need to stop wasteful practice and to do that bans on certain single-use plastic items are helpful,’ he said.

“Ultimately, though, we need changes in design. We need to see sustainable alternatives emerge on the market to replace so much of the wasteful plastic products that we use.”

Yes, India needs more Afroz Shah,

Quick Glance We’re turning the oceans into a plastic soup

It’s also a problem that’s difficult to clean up

India can act as a catalyst for curbing pollution

not only for clean-up oceans but also for rivers and mountains.

“Afroz Shah is a great inspiration, not only for India but for the entire world. So yes, we do need more people like him! What is important is not just the quantity of litter that has been collected, but that a powerful message has been sent around the world and that this message has been heard!”

Shah, a young lawyer from Mumbai, and his volunteers have removed around 13 million kg of waste since 2015 in what the UN has called “the world’s largest beach cleanup project”.

Solheim is optimistic that India can act as a catalyst for curbing pollution.

Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi recently said it would be a crime against future generations not to take action on climate change.

“India, therefore, carries a strong moral argument. In addition, India is among the nations that stand to

suffer the biggest impact from climate change; so it’s important that it acts as a powerful voice for action on the global stage,” he said.

“India is also innovating, and that’s what I think will be its biggest act of leadership: showing climate action can also unlock incredible economic gains,” he added.

Environment

June 04-10, 2018

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Agartala

Climate

Darjeeling Tea Faces Climate Risk

Tea is a rain fed crop that needs specific soil and air temperature as well as moisture condition for desired growth

n Dinesh C Sharma

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radual change in temperature and rainfall patterns in Darjeeling hills is beginning to affect the production of the famous Darjeeling tea.

The maximum temperature in Kurseong has risen by 0.51 degree over the last 20 years while total annual rainfall dropped by 56 mm and relative humidity by 16.07 %, leading to a decline in overall production of Darjeeling tea in terms of green leaf production per hectare.

This has emerged from studies conducted at the experimental farms of the Darjeeling Tea Research and Development Centre (DTR&DC) at Kurseong to see the effect of climate change on production of tea.

The West Bengal State Climate Action Plan has also expressed concern over “reduced productivity of Darjeeling tea due to increase in extended drought periods.” In other hill regions in the state, the plan has reported a decline in size and quality of citrus fruits like mandarin orange as a result of rising minimum temperature

during the flowering season.

Tea is a rain-fed crop that needs specific soil and air temperature as well as moisture condition for desired growth. Both increased temperatures and decreasing rainfall – along with a change in relative humidity adversely affect quantity and quality of tea production. The chances of pest infestation also go up with an increase in temperature.

The ideal temperature for growing tea is between 18 and 30 degrees. The plant growth is adversely affected when the temperature goes above 32 degrees or drops below 13 degrees.

In addition, strong winds, frequent frost, hail and excessive rainfall are also detrimental for production of high-quality tea. “Both excess and shortage of water affect the growth of tea bushes. Tea bushes need adequate and well-distributed rainfall. Heavy and erratic rainfall can damage tea plantation due to soil erosion, lack of growth due to fewer sunshine hours and different types of insect pest and diseases, besides flooding,” explained Mrityunjay Choubey, a researcher from DTR&DC, while speaking at a

The West Bengal State Climate Action Plan has also expressed concern over “reduced productivity of Darjeeling tea due to increase in extended drought periods”

media workshop on climate change here last week.

Tea is grown in five different valleys in the region – Darjeeling, Mirik, Teesta, Rambang and Kurseong – each having different elevation and weather pattern.

“There is no doubt that rainfall has come down drastically in all the valleys.

But we have to collate data from all the stations, including those run by the India Meteorological Department and also analyse other factors such as the shift from inorganic to organic farming and levels of absenteeism, before we can pinpoint reasons for falling production. Climate change may be one of the factors,” pointed out Prahalad Chetri, project director of the R&D centre, Tea Board of India, while speaking to India Science Wire.

Choubey, however, said that since the experimental farm followed the inorganic method of cultivation, yield reduction could not be attributed to shifting from inorganic to organic cultivation practices. “The probable reason (for yield reduction) may be temperature rise, lack of total as well as the distribution of rainfall and less humidity. These factors affect carbohydrate assimilation, respiration and evapotranspiration of tea plants, pest and disease infestation, drought and heavy rainfall incidence and soil degradation,” he added.

In view of this, he said, it was critical to identify and evaluate options for adaptation to future climate change.

Adaptation measures will include the use of drought-tolerant clones, reducing chemical load by integrated nutrient management.

Organic farming is highly adaptable to climate change as it preserves inherent soil fertility and maintains organic matter in soils which can sustain productivity in the event of drought or irregular rainfall.

The workshop was jointly organized by Indian Himalayas Climate Adaptation Programme (IHCAP), Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Centre for Media Studies (CMS).

Keep Environment Safety In Concurrent List: Biplab Deb Tripura must be adequately compensated for their efforts to maintain and enhance forest cover in the state n ssb bureau

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ripura Chief Minister Biplab Deb has urged the central government to keep the conservation and protection of environment in the Concurrent List of constitution instead of only in the Union List, an official said.

Addressing the 13th meeting of the standing committee of the Inter State Council (ISC) in Delhi on Friday, Deb said: “Both Central and state governments are equally responsible for the conservation and protection of environment.

Hence, this subject must be kept in the Concurrent List of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution instead of the Union List only”.

The Chief Minister said in forest-rich states like Tripura, there are comparatively lesser land availability for undertaking developmental activities such as agriculture and industrial activity.

“Tripura must be adequately compensated for their efforts to maintain and enhance forest cover in the state. The 15th Finance Commission must give adequate weightage to this factor while determining devolution formula of central funds to the states,” a statement quoted him as saying.

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excerpts from the book: “NARENDRA DAMODAR MODI: the making of a legend”

June 04-10, 2018

Rajpath becomes Yogpath

The biggest event on International Yoga Day was held at Rajpath, New Delhi, where 35,985 people belonging to 84 nationalities, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi did yoga exercises. This extraordinary celebration of Yoga enthused millions and created two Guinness World Records for performing exercises at a single venue—the first for the largest number of people and the second for largest number of nationalities involved.

P

Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs yoga with thousands at a yoga session at Rajpath in New Delhi.

rime Minister Narendra Modi urged the world community to adopt an International Day of Yoga during his address to the 60th session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, 2014. His initiative had the support of 170 nations.

The proposal was accepted by UNGA and June 21 was declared as International Yoga Day in recognition of the ancient Indian science’s “holistic approach to health and well being.”

The first International Yoga Day on June 21, 2015 witnessed active participation across India, even as 192 countries held yoga sessions and functions to mark the occasion. Many Indian embassies abroad were involved in organising functions and spreading awareness

I congratulate Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the United Nation’s declaration of World Yoga Day. …Yoga has

existed so far almost like an orphan. Now, official recognition by the UN would spread the benefit of yoga to the entire world.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

on UN declaration of World Yoga Day

about yoga.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to Rajpath as “Yogpath” in view of the massive response.

Even though the weather was inclement, with rains reported in many places, the enthusiasm across the country for this event did not

June 04-10, 2018

excerpts from the book: “NARENDRA DAMODAR MODI: the making of a legend”

25

The only way to experience true wellbeing is to turn inward. This is what

No Prime Minister (before Modi) talked about yoga on the global stage. It was Modiji who ran the campaign for an International Yoga Day and garnered support of 177 countries. This is the first

yoga means, not up, not out, but in. The only way out is in.

Hundreds of people attend a yoga session at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, in Paris, France, on June 21, 2015 .

Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev

Founder of Isha Foundation

time that a proposal in the UN has received the support of 177 countries, with not even a single country opposing it.

Baba Ramdev Yoga guru

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses participants at the first International Day of Yoga at Rajpath, New Delhi, on June 21, 2015.

By proclaiming 21 June as the International Day of Yoga, the

General Assembly has recognised the holistic benefits of this timeless practice and its inherent compatibility with the principles and values of the United Nations.

Yoga is not a religion. It is a science, science of well-

being, science of youthfulness, science of integrating body, mind and soul.

Amit Ray

in his book Yoga and Vipassana: An Integrated Life Style

diminish. The day was celebrated with yoga lessons from gurus and film stars. Events were held in open grounds, auditoriums, schools and

Ban Ki moon Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs yoga with others to mark International Day of Yoga, at Rajpath, New Delhi, on June 21, 2015.

Foreigners and diplomats participating in the International Day of Yoga at Rajpath, New Delhi, on June 21, 2015.

colleges etc. A particularly moving instance was that of patients at the Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute in Hyderabad receiving instructions from a yoga teacher.

The advent of International Yoga Day heralds India’s global emergence as a cultural superpower

and it would hopefully deliver a wide spectrum of benefits to humanity. It is a vibrant tool for projection of soft power by sharing India’s rich spiritual heritage with the world. And, it will contribute to global harmony and peace, and steer India towards becoming the world’s ultimate spiritual destination.

United Nations General Secretary

Hundreds of people performing yoga on the first International Day of Yoga at Qujiang International Conference and Exhibition, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China, on June 21, 2015.

Continue in next issue

26

Gender

June 04-10, 2018 Dr Rekha Mehra

Kathak To Spread Societal Awareness To many, Kathak is confined to amalgamation of music and deft footwork but Dr Rekha Mehra has taken the classical dance form to a new level

Mamta Aggarwal

L

ending a helping hand to the destitute, Delhi-based classical dancer and singer Rekha Mehra aims to make the world free from the divide that exists between the haves and the have-nots.

The 45-years-old says, “I want to make things better for all. To begin with, I trained children of my helper and then went to various schools to make kids aware about these free classes that I run at Safdarjung.”

Mehra has been training the kids for the last five years, besides doing her

Quick Glance Kathak dancer Dr Rekha Mehra tries to do her bit for the society

The artist also provides a platform to kids to showcase their talent

She wants to bridge the gap between the have and the have-nots

own shows. She is known to present the Indian mythology and tradition through her dance.

She’s a trained Kathak dancer who has performed around the world, runs an institute that’s training 300 underprivileged children in the arts and passionately believes the dance form is a powerful tool to raise societal awareness about burning issues of the day. Traversing the traditional as well as the contemporary, danseuse Rekha Mehra effectively uses the dance form to raise issues of grave concern.

“Dance performances draw audiences and when this medium is used to show the harsh realities of the society we are living in, it certainly touches the hearts and impacts many.

Present-day issues such as child assault, female foeticide, environmental crises, plight of women, among others, can be effectively portrayed using creative mediums,” Mehra told IANS in an interview.

And, to do her bit to bring about a change in society, she has

choreographed dances and on themes like HIV-AIDS ‘Nidaan’ (cure), Atithi Devo Bhava, Atal Shakti ki Khoj Mein, War and Peace, Dhani Chunaria, et al.

Do they really evoke emotions and create a stir?

“I have seen many people impacted by the themes I have shown. It touches their hearts in a way no advertisement ever will. Recently, I noticed many among the audience were in tears during the dance drama about female foeticide,” said the dance guru, who has performed at several Indian and International festivals, including the Khajuraho festival, Mahakumbh, Lucknow Mahotsav, Festival of India, Sharjah festival and the Onam festival in the Maldives, among others.

Given her strong feelings, it’s not surprising that Mehra has joined the long-running ancient-versus-modern debate that’s been raging for long, saying that while her presentations are firmly rooted in the past, they are also a mirror to society, raising awareness about what needs to be done to make the globe a better place.

“I do not think creativity should be held within the confines of its historical heritage. I agree that we should not completely forget about our rich past. Religious themes such as Radha-Krishna and Shiva should still be staged to spread awareness to the newer generations so that they do not forget about their culture.

“However, modern issues affecting society such as child rape, women’s empowerment, environmental concerns and other such matters should also be focused on. I feel Kathak should be allowed a free flow, giving way to transformation,” said Mehra, who runs the Urvashi Dance, Music and Cultural Society here.

What of the manner in which classical dance is presented in

She has been working thoroughly to support the girl child by helping them enhance their creative side and in future even use it as a means of their livelihood

Bollywood films?

“Performances in films are accentuated beyond reality. People are drawn to the beautiful lighting and heavy dresses shown in the film. This increases the popularity and everyone gets to know a general image of this classical dance form.

However, only a general picture of the dance is depicted. The originality and the finesse of this dance form is not sufficiently portrayed. Also, many live performers aren’t able to afford such extravagant backdrops, dresses and other such stuff. The audience is drawn to these extravagant props and the performers get fewer views,” Mehra explained.

What of the future?

“Currently I am working with around 300 underprivileged children and wish to promote them by creating awareness through a number of performances all over India highlighting different problems our country faces. I also desire to extend my audience and perform in rural villages where people have never experienced such a thing.

“There is much to be done,” she concluded.

West Bengal

June 04-10, 2018 Shibpur

Bishop’s College At Shibpur To Become A Heritage Zone The IIST authorities have now decided to build a dedicated heritage zone in the campus

27 07

Quick Glance It will be equipped with a state-ofthe-art light and sound show

The authorities have held a preliminary discussion with Bishop

IIST VC seems very upbeat about the grand restoration project

Prasanta Paul

T

ucked away in an unattended corner of the nowfamous Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIST), Shibpur, on the other side of the river Ganga, a page from history is awaiting human footfall in silence.

A leaf from the colonial past is poised to start shining again. At a neglected nook in the sprawling 64 bighas that presently house IIST, formerly Bengal Engineering College stands a nearderelict Bishop’s College, soaked in history. The IIST authorities who have planned its thorough revamp, particularly the magnificent chapel and adjacent building, have now decided to build a dedicated heritage zone in the campus, equipped with a state-of-the-art light and sound show.

The experts dealing with conservation of such buildings as this have already been approached by the IIST authorities for assessment of the condition of the heritage structure and ways and costs of restoration. Since the original interiors of the chapel have been disfigured, the authorities have already held a preliminary discussion with Bishop Ashok Biswas for his opinion and views on how the interiors had then looked like. IIST vice-chancellor Ajay Kumar Ray seems very upbeat about the grand restoration project.

According to Ray, though it will not be a church where the regular congregation will be held, utmost care and stress are being laid on

the architecture and the imposing structure of the edifice in view of the historical significance of the building.

“What perhaps adds to its heritage value is the fact that the buildings lace the Oval Cricket field which is a replica of the original in London. The field had been prepared by the British in such a way as to facilitate the game of cricket because they thought the wind from the river would certainly swing the ball as it happens in the case of the field at Oval,” says Ray. Founded by the first Anglican Bishop of Calcutta, Bishop Thomas Middleton in December 1820 at Shibpur, on a site next to the Botanical Gardens by the side of river Hooghly, the college was established jointly by some liberal Europeans and enlightened intellectuals of the then Calcutta. They were too keen to initially establish the college’s part of a scheme for a theological college along the lines of that at Cambridge.

Accordingly, it contained a chapel, houses, library and lecture rooms.

The original buildings still survive as part of the Bengal Engineering College (IIST). The magnificent Gothic structure of the chapel, built as a replica of the Hampton Court in London, still stands so prominently on the bank of the river Ganga (Hoogly) on the opposite of the city of Calcutta

that it will be next to impossible to miss the majestic structure.

It was originally intended to serve as an Arts and Science College, as well as for the training of Indian Christians for the priesthood, and as catechists and teachers in Christian Colleges and Schools. Between 1832 and 1844 a number of Bengali Hindu converts joined the college, among whom were Mahesh Chandra Ghose, Krishna Mohan Banerjee and Michael Madhusudan Dutt. Dutt was baptised in the chapel here after he left home and enrolled himself as a student in the college.

The Arts and Science divisions were set up for the consideration and discussion of questions connected with literature and science ‘with the object of promoting the spirit of inquiry and knowledge among the Bengalis on one hand, and establishing racial harmony between the Europeans and the natives on the other’. In those days His Excellency, the Lieutenant Governor of Bengal and the highest officials did not hesitate to attend the meetings and lectures held in the college without any special invitation to listen to the eminent speakers. A young Rabindranath Tagore made his first public reading on the subject of Music at the College Hall, the evening before he started on the voyage to England in

One of the biggest challenges before the IIST authorities is to properly evoke the historical significance of this edifice in the light and sound show

1878. The event was presided over by Reverend K. M. Banerji. The lectures delivered were subsequently published as articles separately in the form of a book.

The cosmopolitan nature of the College population, with students hailing from different regions of India, Burma and Ceylon as well as Europeans and Anglo-Indians on an equal footing, was a great asset to knock off the edges of narrow provincialism. Students were trained to have an independent outlook and to cultivate self-confidence. In fact, the College was the subject of many a British painting and sketches by renowned masters of that time. With the introduction of the railway, it was felt that the college should be shifted to a suitable site in Calcutta and shortly after the 1880s, it was shifted to AJC Bose Road and Bishop’s house too was moved to a new location.

One of the biggest challenges before the IIST authorities is to properly evoke the historical significance of this edifice in the light and sound show. “This calls for professional acumen and we need professional help in this regard,” explains the vice chancellor. Ray has already been in touch with the BESU (IIST) alumni many of whom are currently abroad, for their suggestion and financial help.

This apart, Ray’s penchant for this show stems from the fact that he had once been a faculty member of the IIT – Kharagpur and the IIT campus has in one corner, the Hijli Jail, once infamous detention centre of the British. Many freedom fighters had languished in the Hijli jail and Ray had nurtured a secret desire to institute a light and sound show there, but factors beyond his control stood on the way.

Hence, the IIST vice chancellor is determined now to ensure his dream to take a shape and given the pace of work, it seems that it would be a reality by the end of this year.

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Sports

June 04-10, 2018 Dhoni

‘Age is just a number, fitness matters’ The former Indian cricket captain says that fitness is the real issue IANS

D

ousing the debate between age and experience, Chennai Super Kings’ skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni put “fitness”

ahead of any other factor for success.

As his side lifted the third Indian Premier League (IPL) title on Sunday 27 May, hammering Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight wickets, he opined that it’s the fitness of players

which matters the most.

“We talked a lot about age, but what’s more important is the fitness.

Rayudu, at 33, it doesn’t really matter.

That’s what more matters than age,” Dhoni said after the match.

Facts About MSD You Probably Don’t Know •Dhoni made his Ranji Trophy debut for Bihar in the 1999–2000 season as an eighteen-year-old •The wicketkeeper batsman made his ODI debut against Bangladesh in 2004, and was run out on the first ball •MSD is fast friends with Bipasha Basu and John Abraham. Perhaps Mahi’s long golden locks that were admired by none other than former Pakistan President Parvez Musharraf were inspired by John’s own similar look!

•Dhoni was a Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) at Kharagpur railway station from 2001 to 2003, under South Eastern Railway in Midnapore •It took Dhoni just four ODIs to hit his first ODI ton. Batting at number three, Dhoni smashed 148 runs off 123 balls against Pakistan at Andhra Cricket Association-Visakhapatnam District Cricket Association Stadium in Visakhapatnam •Dhoni was appointed as India’s limited-overs skipper in 2007 after Rahul Dravid stepped down as the captain •Under Dhoni’s captaincy, India have won ICC World Twenty20 (2007), ICC Champions trophy (2013) as well as ICC World Cup (2011) •Much to the surprise of the cricket fraternity, Dhoni announced sudden retirement from Test cricket in December 2014 after playing the third match against Australia • Dhoni married Sakshi in a hush-hush ceremony on July 4, 2010. The two are said to have first met in Kolkata in November 2007.

Back then, India were slated to play Pakistan at the Eden Gardens •Dhoni’s highest score in ODIs is 183*, which came against Sri Lanka in his 22nd ODI match.

Dhoni blasted those runs off in just 145 balls •Dhoni was conferred with the honorary rank of Lt Colonel by the Indian Territorial Army in November 2011. Time and again, he has said that he would like to play some role in the Army in the future •Dhoni is only the second Indian after Kapil Dev to receive an honorary rank •MS Dhoni’s biopic ‘MS Dhoni - The Untold

Story’, starring Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput was released in 2016 •Rather in 2010, Dhoni acted in David Dhawan’s ‘Hook Ya Crook’. But, unfortunately the film, starring John Abraham, was shelved and we missed our chance to see Dhoni on the big screen •His 224 against Australia is 3rd highest individual score by a wicket-keeper in tests •In the first edition of Indian Premier League, Dhoni was bought for a whopping 1.5 Million USD

by Chennai Super Kings which made him the costliest buy in inaugural season •Dhoni led Chennai Super Kings to three titles in the Indian Premier League (2010, 2011 and 2017) and Champions League Twenty20 (2010 and 2014) •Dhoni has two pet dogs Zarah and Sam – who play a major role in his personal life.

Zarah is a Labrador and Sam an Alsatian •While Dhoni’s Helicopter Shot has given him huge fame across the world, not many know that he learned it from his friend Santosh Lal •Dhoni has partnered with Telugu filmstar Akkineni Nagarjuna in buying a Supersport World Championship team and named it Mahi Racing Team India.

“If you ask most captains, they want players who move well on the field. Doesn’t matter if you’re 1920 years old. Age is just a number, but you have to be very fit,” said the Chennai skipper. Dhoni meanwhile, also credited the batting effort by his side throughout the tournament which was a major reason behind their success.

“I feel it’s a really good batting effort. But we always had the belief that we had the firepower in the middle over’s.

There was no plan to send Bravo up ahead.

Rayudu has been our one of main batters, so we had protection in the middle,” he said.

Meanwhile, Man of the Match Watson, who was back to his brutal best as his scintillating unbeaten 117 run-knock was the key behind Chennai’s IPL title, termed the season as a “special” one for him.

After the match, the Australian all-rounder said, “It’s been a special season to be honest. To get a special season especially after the last season with RCB.” “It means a lot to be with a franchise like CSK,” Watson added. On his Sunday’s innings, where the Australian produced a masterclass against one of the best bowling attack in the league, the 36-year-old said: “After those first ten balls I was only hoping to catch up to at least a run-aball. Bhuvi is really good with the new ball and was lucky to get the opportunity to catch up.” “Stephen Fleming and M.S. Dhoni have been looking after me really well and I am really glad to contribute like I did tonight,” he added.

Cinema

June 04-10, 2018 Environment special

Filmmakers turn to climate crisis Creative depiction of degradation of Nature

much as her life is poor and distorted, she’s a truly global child who learns the outside world from the waste workshop that her family lives in and works in - also known as the “United Nations of Plastic Wastes.” This sensitive film explores how this work of recycling plastic waste with their bare hands takes a toll not only on their health but also their own dilemma of poverty, disease, pollution and death.

KOKOTA: The Islet

n Geeta Singh

of Hope

I

n 2006 when Albert Arnold Gore Jr aka Al Gore, former Vice President of United States made a documentary An Inconvenient Truth, he had put the horrifying reality of global warming before all of us. The film won an Academy Award for best documentary. And it started the dialogue of putting such non-fictional issues through lenses. Subsequently, a new breed of filmmakers came forward and devoted much of their time to address environmental issues. An Inconvenient Truth has been regarded as a turning point for the medium’s growing and necessary engagement with environmental activism. That year Gore also published The Future: Six Drivers of Global Change, which analyzed the impact of various sociopolitical, technological, and environmental forces on humanity’s prospects.

The frightful signs of climate change is been witnessing majorly across the globe. And the alarming degradation of the environment has for long been a pressing concern for filmmakers, especially those that work in the nonfiction space. In India also noted film award National Award has created a category to award film made on environmental issues. Al Gore made a sequel of his 2006 documentary in 2017 again- An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power. Year 2017 saw few good films on environment in India too. Kadvi Hawa, a film in Hindi made by filmmaker Nila Madhab Panda tells the compassionate tale of an agrarian whimpering over the issue of climate change in the context of our country. The film shows a bleak, parched landscape with barren lands and mounting debts and tragic suicides of farmers.

“More than the farmer suicide, Kadvi Hawa tells the story of wind,” says Panda, who shot to fame with I Am Kalam. “Wind is central to the ecosystem and farmer is the most important human figure that is impacted by it. It is the farmer, he says, who suffers the most from climate change.” Another lesser-

29 07

This short film of 29 minutes introduces viewers to the resilient people living on the front lines of climate change. It tells the story of how these unlikely heroes have managed to adapt to a warming climate by reforesting their island.

Bike vs. Cars

The bilingual film made in English as well as in French, Bikes vs. Cars, depicts a global crisis that we all know we need to talk about: climate, earth’s resources and cities which have been entirely consumed by the car. In this film, we meet activists and thinkers who are fighting for better cities.

The E-waste Tragedy

known documentary The Tiger who crossed the line showcases the animalhuman conflict and its impact on the environment. The film received the award of Best Environmental film in 2017. Filmmaker Krishnendu Bose’s 45 minute documentary focuses on print and visual reports of tiger and leopard straying into human habitation and attacking people and livestock along with other conservation issues and steps taken to tackle them while taking the viewers across several wildlife reserves — Corbett, Ramnagar, Sunderbans, Pilibhit and Western Ghats. Adding to this, the documentary highlights the upshot of Project Tiger’s success. Making films on environment Krishnendu Bose has his point of view. He states, “Films can at best kick-start conversations and debates, catalysing a disruptive thinking process to support and fuel a social movement.” This year Aparnaa Singh got National award for her directorial movie Irada released in the 2017. She bagged a National Award under the category ‘Best Film on Environment Conservation/ Preservation’. Naseeruddin Shah,

Arshad Warsi, Divya Dutta, Sharad Kelkar and Sagarika Ghatge played pivotal role in this lesser known feature film. Irada is an eye-opening film where the greed of human beings leads to polluting the environment including the groundwater and efforts to reverse the same. The film garnered the positive response from the critics and the audience. Aparnaa forayed into Bollywood as a research head for Anurag Kashyap film Black Friday.

For movies like Shauraya and Gulaal Aparnaa has written dialogues also.

In the international arena, let us have a look at some recent films that highlighted the critical issue of the environment from a diverse angle.

Plastic China

Plastic China directed by Jang JiuLiang Wang made headlines among different film festivals in 2017.

Through the eyes of those who handle its waste, this delicate but moving film is a deep dive into global consumption and culture. The film follows the story of a young girl by the name of Yi-Jie, working in a recycling facility and dreaming of attending school. As

Every year, developed countries throw away up to 50 million metric tons of electrical and electronic waste.

Computers, TVs, mobile phones and appliances and much more. Can this tide of toxic waste be stopped? How much longer are we going to ignore the problem? Watch this film to find out.

The Memory of Fish

This film made in 2016 won Director’s Award for Cinematography at the Woods Hole Film Festival. Fisherman Dick Goin spent decades working to bring salmon back to his home turf on the Elwha River on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula after dams destroyed their habitat. This quiet documentary, narrated by actress Lili Taylor, is a commentary on the synergy between the natural world and people who embrace their total reliance on it.

An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power

Acted by Bill Clinton and written

by Al Gore The sequel of An Inconvenient Truth narrates a decade after An Inconvenient Truth (2006) brought climate change to the heart of popular culture, the follow-up shows just how close we are to a real energy revolution.

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Literature

June 04-10, 2018 Inspirational

Emptying The Sea

O

nce two partridges, a husband and wife, were going on a trip. Before they left, the wife laid some eggs near the ocean. Then the husband said to the sea, “We are going on a sea voyage.

You must take care of these eggs for us. if we don’t find the eggs when we return, we’ll empty you.”

The sea agreed to take care of the eggs, and it kept them safe. A few days later the two partridges came back, but they couldn’t find the eggs. They screamed at the sea. The sea wanted

to give them the eggs, but it couldn’t find them. The birds cursed the sea; they began taking out a drop of water at a time and throwing it on the land.

“We are going to empty you,” they said to the sea.

Some little birds saw all this and they asked, “What are you doing?”

The partridges replied, “We are punishing the sea because it didn’t keep its promise to look after our eggs.”

The little birds thought it was a noble task and they joined the

friendship

Love of Karna for Duryodhana

K

arna had access to Duryodhana’s most private quarters.

One day he was playing dice with Duryodhana’s wife and she was losing.

Karna’s back was towards the door. At some point of time Duryodhana entered, his wife rose to greet him. (old times folks, wife respects husband). At this Karna says- “have you lost courage and are quitting”, he also held her by the shoulder to stop her and in this process her necklace of pearls broke. Duryodhana entered and didn’t suspect foul beahviour once. (In

those times women didn’t flirt with their husband’s friends) Instead he said “cherkovva kerkovva” (I’m not sure about what he said exactly, I wasn’t shooting this; I read this in a Tamil version of a Mahabharata) which means should I join you at dice or string the pearls. (Please try to think from a perspective which existed in those times) This is the level of friendship that existed between them. This is one of the stories Karna told Kunti when she came ad asked him to change sides. #respect #friendship.

partridges. After a while some big birds took up their cause.

They also started taking out water drop by drop. This went on for weeks.

One day, Garuda (a divine bird who carries the great cosmic god Lord Vishnu) came and asked, “What are you doing?”

The birds said, “Can’t you see? We are emptying the sea. ” Garuda said, “You fools, how long will this take? You will never be able to do it. The sea is vast, infinite.”

But the birds answered, “No, we have determination and perseverance.”

Garuda was very surprised and said, “Let me show them Compassion.

I’ll ask Lord Vishnu to help them. if Vishnu helps, then certainly they will be able to find their eggs. if the eggs are still in good condition, Vishnu will be able to return them. But if they are destroyed, he can do nothing for them.”

He went to Vishnu. “Vishnu, I have never seen fools like these. If you

really care for fools, then will you do them a favor?” Garuda then told him the whole story.

Vishnu said, “No, they are not fools. They are showing the spirit of patience and perseverance. This is how human beings must try to empty the ignorance-sea, drop by drop. It is what seekers must and should do.

The ignorance-sea is vast. If sincere seekers want to empty it and replace it with knowledge-light, then they must do it the same way, drop by drop. I am very pleased with these birds. I will command the sea to return the eggs.”

Garuda said, “The Sea wanted to give them the eggs but it misplaced them and believes they are destroyed.”

Vishnu said, “I will use my psychic power to show the sea where they are.”

He used his psychic power and the sea immediately found the eggs and returned them to the partridges. Then Vishnu said to the birds, “Perseverance, patience and self-giving all are of paramount importance to fulfill one’s divine task.” From Garden of the Soul by Sri Chinmoy.

Events

June 04-10, 2018

events & more...

ACROSS

2. Which city is famous for Cotton Industry in TamilNadu ?

6. Sharavati projects is in ?

10. Country that was called as Land of Rising Sun ?

11. The language spoken by the people

by Pakistan is ?

12. Which is considered as the biggest port of India ?

15. The most important river of Orissa is ?

16. Black soils are best suited for the cultivation of ?

17. D.D.T. was invented by ?

19. The Central Rice Research Station is situated in ?

20. The gas used for making vegetables is ?

OddBird Theatre & Foundation Dhan Mill Compound, 100 Feet Road, SSN Marg, Dr. Ambedkar Colony, Chhattarpur, New Delhi 31 May 2018 7:30 PM - 10 Jun 20188:30 PM

SSB crossword no. 25

events

Contempt - A Collaborative Theatre Production Venue:

DOWN

SOLUTION of crossword no.24

Art Workshops, AeroModelling Sessions Venue:

Pacific Mall Tagore Garden, Najafgarh Road, Subhash Nagar, New Delhi 18 May 2018 12:00 PM - 16 Jun 2018 8:00 PM

Theatre Workshop for Children by Imran Khan Venue: The Beehive 67A, Block C, Sushant Lok Phase I, Sector 43, Gurugram Mon, 4 Jun 4:00PM - Sat, 16 Jun 6:00PM

1. Odisha 2. Lithium 3. Gujarat 4. Two 5. Chhattisgarh 6. China 7. Gopura 8. Rourkela 9. Rabi crop 10. Odisha

11. Deflation 12. Bionics 13. Coin 14. Monsoon 15. Lead 16. Srilanka 17. Manipur 18. Jadugauda 19. Spanish 20.Bindu sara

solution of sudoku-24

Luxury Dining And Classical Kathak Performance Venue:

Haveli Dharampura 2293, Gali Gulian, Dharampura, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi 2 Jun 2018 7:00 PM - 29 Jun 201811:30 PM

31

1.The famous Integral Coach Factory(ICF) for the manufacture of railway coaches are situated at ?

3. “One People, One State, One leader� was the policy of ?

4. The World Largest desert is ?

5. Punjab is famous for ?

7. Deficiency of Iron leads to ?

8. Country that has the highest in Barley Production ?

9. The headquarters of the coffee board of India is ?

13. The hottest planet in the solar system ?

14. The chief ore of Aluminium is ?

18. The metal whose salts are sensitive to light is ?

sudoku-25

NIMA Open Mic Venue:

The Piano Man Jazz Club B 6-7/22 Safdarjung Enclave Market, Opp, Deer Park, Block B 6, Humayunpur, Safdarjung Enclave Sun, 17 Jun 1:00PM - 4:00PM

on the lighter side by DHIR

Please mail your solution to - ssbweekly@gmail.com or Whatsapp at 9868807712, One Lucky Winner will win Cash Prize of Rs 500/-. Look for the Solution in the Next Issue of SSB

32

Newsmakers

June 04-10, 2018

PM Modi’s Mann Ki Baat Star D Prakash Rao

A

Cuttack-based tea seller D Prakash Rao, was lauded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 44th edition of ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

Starting at the mere age of 6, Rao has been selling tea for the past 54 years.

Due to financial problems, he was not able to continue studies after class five despite getting a distinction. However, Rao accepted this as a challenge and today he lives his dream through nurturing the lives of 70-75 slum children in his school.

“Around 70-75 students study in my school.

Their parents are not much concerned about their studies. Even these children didn’t want to come to us. However, we decided to give food to them.

That’s how they all come here now. Also, besides studies, these children get to learn singing, dance and judo. Today, they feel more comfortable in school rather than sitting idle at home or roaming around in streets,” Rao said.

When asked as to how he manages to run the

school single-handedly, Rao said, “I earn Rs 600 per day during off season and around Rs 700-800 in season time. So, money is not an issue. I want to see these children become something in the future.”

When PM Modi went to Orissa he met Praskash Rao. When Modi saw him, he waved his hand and said, ‘Rao sahib, I have come here to meet you. I know everything about you. Nobody needs to tell anything to me.’

Prime Minister Modi in his monthly radio programme on May 27, said, “Rao has been a tea vendor in Cuttack for the past five decades. You will be surprised to know that the lives of more than 70 children are being illuminated through education due to his efforts. He has opened a school named ‘Asha Ashvaasan’, spending 50 per cent of his income for children living in slums and hutments.”

Not to miss out, besides his efforts in school, Rao has also donated blood for an unbelievable “217 times.”

Ability Above Disability Anushka said that she was ‘literally thrilled’ when she got to know that she was a Class 10 CBSE Board topper

W

unsung hero

Tea Seller, Teacher, Doctor

D Prakash Rao

hile Anushka Panda topped the CBSE class 10 examinations in the differently-abled category, what she’s most proud of is not using the extra half-an-hour in each paper, to which she is legally entitled. A student in Gurgaon’s Suncity School, she scored 97.8 per cent overall.

Anushka was provided a special bench by the school. The 14-year-old girl suffers from spinal muscular atrophy, a genetic disorder that diminishes her physical strength and affects her motor nerve cells in the spinal cord. The disorder also affects mobility. As a result, she is wheelchair bound and needs to take frequent breaks.

Anushka Panda Despite her disability, her father Anup Panda says, she never wanted to be treated special. “She has to wear a spinal brace which makes it difficult for her to sit for long hours,” her father, told.

Anushka, also a trained classical singer, aspires to become a software engineer. “I can’t walk and had to take breaks frequently, which is not good. But then I studied harder to overcome that,” Anushka told. “The disability always tried to hamper my performance, but I didn’t let it do so. It was going to but I didn’t allow it,” she said.

To A Big Salute This Cop Brave cop Gagandeep Singh not just saved a Muslim man from lynch mob, but also the poor image of police

Gagandeep Singh

S

tories of police as tormentors are aplenty.

That is why the brave act of sub-inspector Gagandeep Singh of Uttarakhand Police came as a whiff of fresh air. The news lifted our spirits.

The young policeman risked his life to ensure the safety of a Muslim man whom a communally charged mob was about to lynch. He was not related to the man he saved. He also could have, like most policemen would probably have done, taken the easy option of waiting for reinforcement to arrive.

That he chose to answer the call of his conscience and personally protect the individual speaks of the values ingrained in him, his humanity, professionalism and devotion to duty.

The worth of his brave deed is not only confined to saving a precious life. It goes way beyond because it perhaps has prevented a communal conflagration.

The exemplary bravery displayed by Gagandeep brings out that fact that there many policemen who are compassionate, considerate and conscientious human beings. Cops who take their professional responsibilities seriously. It will also go a long way in restoring faith of the public in police.

The police department has also announced a reward of Rs 2,500 for sub-inspector Gagandeep Singh, and appealed to the public not to spread the video with wrong intentions to incite communal violence.

RNI No. DELENG/2016/71561, Joint Commissioner of Police (Licensing) Delhi No. F. 2 (S-45) Press/ 2016 Volume - 2, Issue - 25 Printed by Monika Jain, Published by Monika Jain on behalf of SULABH SANITATION MISSION FOUNDATION and Printed at The Indian Express Ltd., A-8, Sector-7, NOIDA (U.P.) and Published from RZ 83, Mahavir Enclave, Palam-Dabri Road, New Delhi – 110 045. Editor Monika Jain