The Asian Chronicle Dec 20_Ist

Vol V, Issue XVII

1-15 December, 2020 Pages 16, Price Rs. 5/Faridabad (NCR)

theasianchronicle.in

Inside

Cosmetic Surgery- A Paradoxical Elixir

We human beings are the most propitious species among all the genera known in the Universe, being endowed with bas-

Peasant's movement is only a political conspiracy

Peasant's movement

The agonizing nature of the peasant's movement in the borders of Delhi and allowed

is only a political

conspiracy

The morality of voting for 'the lesser of two evils' It is certainly true that the modernists consider democracy, and the right to vote, as

Another Green Revolution Underway Vegetarianism has been the mainstream in India. Even today, the percentage of vegetarians in India is higher than

STOP Drinking RO Water Call: +91 9999 120 410 / +91 9999 120 409

Now ALKALINE MINERAL Water at unbelievable Price Get Alkaline Mineral Water worth 1,000 for Rs 100**

• 3x more hydrating • Natural Minerals • Balanced pH

HUNZA

• Anti-oxidants Exclusively Available at:

Bench-Made Modular Kitchen

9350 142 063, 9992 569 111 AG-94, GF, Unitech Arcadia, South City-II Sector 49, Gurugram

** Conditions Applied

Vol-V, Issue-XVII, Published for the period 1-15 December, 2020. Printed & Published by Virender for and on behalf of Karamvir Kamal (Owner) from 2569, Street No. 2, Jawahar Colony, N.I.T, Faridabad, Haryana and printed at Joy Printers, 3G-142, N.I.T. Faridabad-121001, Haryana. Editor Karamvir Kamal* (responsible for selection of news under PRB Act 1867), Sub Editor Bhoomika Mohan. RNI No. HARENG/2016/67803. Executive Office: 431, Saraswati Vihar, Gurugram-122004, Haryana. Contact +91 9212 46 0446, 9899 73 1532, Email: asianchronicleindia@gmail.com, WWW.THEASIANCHRONICLE.COM | WWW.THEASIANCHRONICLE.IN

www.theasianchronicle.com m email id: asianchronicleindia@gmail.com m www.facebook.com/asianchronicle

Gurgaon: AG-05, Unitech Arcadia, Sec-49, South City-2 Delhi: H-2A/ Shop No. 2, Near Deshbandhu College, Kalkaji

WATER IONIZERS ALSO AVAILABLE

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

nation

2

Unavailability of first phase of Census 2021 hampers NPR finalisation will benefit non-Muslims excluded from the proposed citizens’ register, while excluded Muslims will have to prove their citizenship.

The government has denied that the the CAA and the NRC are linked.

Background

A question was filed recently under the Right to Information Act seeking information on the expected date of the first phase of the Census — House listing & Housing census — and an update of the NPR that was earlier scheduled to begin on April 1.

The two were to be conducted simultaneously from April to September, but were postponed indefinitely on March 25 due to the pandemic.

Nishica Choudhary The office of the Registrar-General of India (RGI) has clarified that the schedule, or the questionnaire, of the National Population Register (NPR) is “being finalised” and the information about the expected date of the first phase of Census 2021 is “not available”.

The Census 2021 was scheduled to be held in two phases, during April-September 2020 and then, in February 2021. The Census was supposed to have its reference date as 1 March 2021, and for Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand it was 1 October 2020.

While the NPR update witnessed opposition from as many as 13 States and Union Territories due to the National Register of Citizens

(NRC) and Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) act that had seen nation-wide outrage, the Census process received full support.

The National Population Register, a list of residents of India, is the first step to creating a National Register of Citizens. Once an NRC is created, any resident excluded from it will be legally identified as an “illegal migrant” and can be prosecuted under Indian law.

Fears over CAA

The CAA passed by Parliament on December 11, 2019 allows citizenship on basis of religion to six undocumented communities from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014. There are apprehensions and fears that the CAA, followed by a country-wide NRC,

What is National Population Register (NPR)?

It is a Register of usual residents of the country.It is being prepared at the local (Village/sub-Town), sub-District, District, State and National level under provisions of the Citizenship Act 1955 and the Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003. It is mandatory for every usual resident of India to register in the NPR.Objective: To create a comprehensive identity database of every usual resident in the country.

The NPR was first collected in 2010 and then updated in 2015.

Who is a usual resident?

A usual resident is defined for the purposes of NPR as a person who has resided in a local area for the past 6 months or more or a person

who intends to reside in that area for the next 6 months or more.

What is the problem?

m Lack of Documentation: In a country where a large part of the population is underprivileged and where people have not been able to formalise their birth due to lack of access to health care, the task of disclosing the exact birth and place of birth, especially of their aged parents and orphans, would prove to be a daunting task. m Fear of Exclusion: NPR is being viewed in fear as a facilitator for the NRC. Along with this, the passage of Citizenship (Amendment) Act,2019 has induced fears among sections of society (particularly Muslims) that inadequate documents may invite remarks by local registrar during enumeration exercise, thus stripping off their citizenship status. m CAA, 2019 fast-tracks citizenship-by-naturalisation process of persons from six religious communities, other than Muslims, who have fled persecution from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. m State governments are nervous that the NPR data would be used to target citizens on the basis of their identity and deprive them of their public services The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) remarked that there was need to update the NPR to “incorporate the changes due to birth, death and migration” and “Aadhaar is individual data whereas NPR contains family wise data.” The MHA proposed to collect details on additional questions such as “date and place of birth of parents” in the NPR to “facilitate back end data processing and making the data items of date and place of birth complete for all household[s]”.

Padma Shree awardees asked to leave their homes

Maithillee Zaveri

Early last week, several senior artistes, were honoured by consecutive administrations with Padma awards, which were given notifications for staying too long in the apartments & houses assigned to them by the Ministry of Culture & Ministry of housing & Urban Affairs. They have been requested to vacate their residences by December 3, failing which expulsion notifications are to be adhesive on the walls of their residences. All this has occurred during the so called third wave of the COVID – 19 widespread. As all of us surmount our lives in this rapidly changing new reality, artistes are no exemption.

With no theatres & no spectators for their art, they are incomplete. Many have gone online in an attempt to remain pertinent & visible, many are taking lectures, many are incapable to do either.

Among the 27 artistes who have been requested to vacate the residences they have inhabited for many years are doyen Odisha executant Mayadhar Raut, Kathak virtuoso Birju Maharaj, dance pundit Sunil Kothari, painter Jatin Das,

Twenty – seven art executants have been requested to vacate their residences

artist Bharti Shiavji & several others in decreasing order of their age.

Raut, virtuoso Odissi lecturer, is in his 90s. Birju Maharaj in his mid – 80s, was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan in 1986. These artistes are beyond their time in age & wellbeing. The expulsion order by the administration at this unfavourable time is thus seen as particularly inconsiderate.

The notifications arose from a November 8 conclusion of the Cabinet Committee of Accommodations, which indicates at abnormalities & misemploy of the accommodation rented by the administration. Alleges the artistes furiously refuse. A daughter of one virtuoso claimed that leases have been paid regularly.

The accommodation was initially

assigned to artistes for five years, & then prolongations were permitted by each consecutive administration, regardless the political party in dominance. These prolongations were usually reissued every three years. “ Administrations have been amplifying it for as long as we can recollect,” claimed one artiste.

Now, several of them have written to the Prime Minister for his intercession while several artistes like Birju Maharaj have debilitated to return their state awards if expelled.

State sponsorship of the arts is important, but it needs to be handled with some degree of systemisation & proficiency. After the Sovereigns & the royal families, it was All India Radio that was the first administration platform to transpire as the head benefactor of artists; Doordarshan followed suit with the National Programme of Music & Dance. It

was with a homogeneous idea that the practice of assigned accommodation for artistes had begun around the 70s. Close to the 40 residences in the Asiad Village & on Shahajan Road were reserved for artistes younger than 60 & with earnings no more than Rs. 20,000 each month, but the spirit of the idea has been to some what strayed within the mists of time.

The period of five years was meant as a progression, & once artistes secure their professions, they should have been inspired to abdicate their accommodation to younger & needier artistes. Instead, by permitting prolongations randomly, these artistes were authorized to expect that the accommodation was a lifelong permit. Now, in their golden years they are unprepared to confront the phantom of expulsion.

A quick scrutiny of several plans declared on the Ministry of Culture website divulges that there is not a single plan that monologues old artistes. There is no annuity, no health assurance, & no official accommodation scheme. In short, the administration has no culture approach, in place for the well – being of artistes. The only thing so far has

been the professional temapartments & residences assigned by well – meaning but short – sighted administrations.

It can not be so difficult for the administration to interrogate the DDA & other metropolitan specialist to assign property & residence for artistes after laying down circumstances for qualification that are sternly obeyed. Nor can it be impossible to make an annuity or sponsored health insurance plan.

These are the addresses the Ministry of Culture requires to engage with, to come up with a permanent solution. Evacuating 27 - odd artistes from their residences is at best a short – term solution. Despite appeals, Ministry authorities denied to comment on the subject.

India’s cultural approaches are in sharp dissimilarity to nations like France & Germany, where not only is state sponsorship of arts & artistes a given but culture itself is given supremacy without suppressing it within administration orders. An administration that pays so much significance to ‘soft power’ & ‘ancient Indian culture’ is anticipated to be more commiserating to the real problems that artistes confront on the ground.

3

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

politics

The morality of voting for 'the lesser of two evils' All other things being equal, one could vote on the basis of such issues. However, it would be wrong to vote for a candidate who has a correct position on one of these issues, but a perverse and wrong position on a more important issue.

In some cases, there’s a credible motivational logic to prizing your integrity, and declining to cast a pragmatic vote. Being high-minded about ideals and principles is a way of undermining the suboptimal choice architectures the world has handed to you, and instead promoting structural transformation

Bhoomika Mohan

Bhoomikamohan88@gmail.com

It is certainly true that the modernists consider democracy, and the right to vote, as sacrosanct, an immediate consequence of human dignity, directly connected with their personal morality.

Reacting against this, knowing as we do how much the electoral system is unjust, realising how much modern democracy is based upon the false liberal principle of human freedom, which rejects all objective divine and moral law, being aware of the narrow margin of choice between the candidates.

Every election cycle, there are citizens who don’t like either of the candidates nominated by the two major political parties.

The angry rejection of the idea that one supposedly has to vote for someone one finds objectionable is understandable and I think is tied to something deeply significant.

And so, a familiar debate begins: Is a vote for a third party a principled stand – or wasteful naiveté?

Voters are directed to believe that they ought to vote so as to minimise harm, which sounds like a moral commandment. But some voters also have a conflicting moral belief – they do not endorse a candidate that they take to be corrupt. Morally, they are put into the position of choosing an external moral principle over an internal one because if they quit, the euthanising will still happen – and might very well be less humane than if they were doing it.

We are often squared off with a choice between acting in a way that expresses our deep-seated values and ideals, and acting in a way that promotes a better outcome in the society through our actions.

The Integrity Objection:

In a conversation with TAC, Ajit Kamba, a philosopher and an active voter, argued that you should care about maintaining integrity in your personal ideals – not necessarily at all costs, but at least a little bit. That’s because you have a special proprietary responsibility for acts you perform. Those choices and acts are, in some special sense, yours, distinct from outcomes that result from combining your choices and acts with everyone else’s.

He also says, you shouldn’t feel pressure to act against your ideals in order to promote the lesser of two evils. Don’t euthanise the animals. Don’t vote for the front runner. You are responsible for the acts you do, not for everything that they lead to. If you quit and those animals suffer more, you aren’t responsible for this; your boss is. If a demagogic president remains in power, that’s not your fault.

The Self- Involving Response:

When the consequences of one’s action or inaction get bad enough, following through for the sake of keeping one’s hands clean

Progressive strategy:

Voters are directed to believe that they ought to vote so as to minimise harm, which sounds like a moral commandment.

But some voters also have a conflicting moral belief – they do not endorse a candidate that they take to be corrupt starts to seem self-indulgent. Indeed, even Williams admitted that you may sometimes be required to violate your principles for the greater good.

If, for instance, a vegan lifestyle were central to my self-identity and I found myself in a situation where my abstaining from eating meat would hurt my host’s feelings, plausibly I would be allowed to respectfully turn down the food. If, however, either the moral costs of turning down the food were much higher – for instance, if I were a peace ambassador to a foreign government host with thin skin and a finger on the nuclear launch button – or I was only toying with the idea of veganism, then my preferences would not play the same justificatory role.

Just as a few cigarettes or doughnuts can unravel months of self-discipline, a retreat to lesser-of-two-evils pragmatism can undermine one’s sense that it’s worth aiming for the best in the first place. And there’s a long history of savvy political actors tactically pressing on the urge to compromise, as a way of quelling and ultimately disarming revolutionary opposition to unjust systems.

Community Compromise:

In deciding whether to compromise your

ideals, or whether to take a stand, you might ask yourself: ‘Will this compromise undermine projects that I’ve committed to, through which I’m actively trying to make the world a better place?’ (In which case: stand by your principles.) ‘Or are my ideals and principles simply idle, such that a moral compromise wouldn’t affect any projects actively in train?’ (In which case: act so as to promote the lesser of two evils.)

You can keep lobbying, educating, organising, protesting, cultivating solidarity with like-minded people, et cetera, et cetera. All you have to do, privately, is tick a different box.

The immediate payoff of this approach is that it gives a framework for people whose ideals make them reluctant to vote for the lesser of two evils, but who don’t have any real commitments or projects fuelled by those ideals.Consequently, it would be permissible and prudent to vote for a candidate who promotes an unjust war, on the basis of one or other of these issues.

Lesser issues are also of moral importance, such as the justice or injustice of a particular war, or the paying of a just wage to employees, maintaining the right to private property by limiting government intervention, and so on.

We know what happens if we apply a lesser-of-two-evils voting strategy over and over. It pushes all meaningful anti-poverty policies off the political agenda. If nominally progressive parties can take for granted anyone who cares about economic justice, they lose any incentive to shift their policies. To vote for the least-worst candidate, under these conditions, is to validate something verging on a sham democracy – a power struggle between two factions of the ruling elite.

While acting in line with your principles is a good thing, in certain scenarios, that’s because it embodies a type of indirect strategy for making a positive impact in the world.

For most of us, that aim speaks in favour of using our vote on the least-worst option. For a committed few, it means using our vote (or nonvote) to send a message about the urgency of the principles that the leaders of ‘our’ side have broken faith with. But it doesn’t mean doing nothing – and we should be wary of anyone portraying their desire to sit things out as a mark of integrity.

That is to misunderstand why and how integrity matters in the political morality of citizenship.

Manifestly, we are presently very far removed from achieving these aims. It does not mean that we should do nothing. It does mean, however, that whatever we do will necessarily involve the toleration of many evils, which we in no way desire or will.

However, it can be permissible to tolerate the lesser of two evils for a proportionate reason, and such toleration can be for the common good, precisely because it is the lesser of two evils. Thus, it is possible to vote or even campaign for a candidate whose platform contains evils with which we do not agree. Everything depends upon a hierarchy of the most important values and issues taking priority over lesser ones.

Hence, someone who’s reluctant to follow a lesser-of-two-evils strategy needs to at least interrogate that instinct. If you’re genuinely trying make the world a better place, it isn’t enough to simply promote the good within the limited range of choices you’re being offered. You need to try to become someone who actively builds those choices, shaping which outcomes result from which actions. And that means taking on projects and principles that you mean to live by – even if this might produce undesirable outcomes in the short term.

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

news

4

Another Green Revolution Underway more varied, versatile green diet like never before.”

Meat- A devil in more than one way

Shubh Mathur

Vegetarianism has been the mainstream in India. Even today, the percentage of vegetarians in India is higher than any other country and now the wave of vegan diets is sweeping across the planet.

According to a study published in Journal of the American Heart Association, adults who consumed more of plant-based foods and less of animal products were likely to have a healthier heart and it held that less meat can also reduce the risk of a stroke, high cholesterol, blood pressure problems, type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Meat alternatives have capitalized on the demand, switching gears to

open avenues for a larger market.

Impossible Foods secured a $200million funding in August 2020, raising the company’s total investment since 2011 to $1.5 billion.

Ever since the company has gone public in May 2019, Beyond Meat has partnered with Subway, KFC, Dunkin’ and more giving its shareholders massive returns. Mainstream FMCG companies like Hindustan Unilever and Nestlé have also introduced, in their overseas market, multiple vegan versions of their signature non-vegetarian and dairy products.

Locally, an institutional incentive to intensify the demand in plantbased food has been introduced.

The Federation of Indian Animal

Protection Organisations (FIAPO), an animal protection body that supports plant-based living with a greater emphasis on nutrition and health, has launched the ‘the plant factor’- a food innovation challenge for Indian start-ups, entrepreneurs and restaurants who are working in this domain, ready to serve the Indian market with delicacies made of non-animal ingredients.

Varda Mehrotra, executive director of FIAPO says, “We are looking for alternatives which meet the nutritional, taste and texture profile according to the Indian palate. People recognise the need, ease of accessibility and great taste of plant-based nutrition. There is a collective interest in sustaining a

Is the economy turning?

TAC News

India’s financial challenge in post – Covid world is not going to be a redevelopment of positive increment rates.

The Indian economy did better than most economists anticipated within the second quarter (July – September) of the current financial year. A GDP abbreviation of 7.5% after a tremendous 23.9% in the June quarter, is, by all means, is an important consecutive advancement. It appears that the June quarter number was a mirror image of the 68 - day curfew rather than any tremendous damage to the beneficial capacity of the economy.

To be certain, the recent GDP numbers are not astonishing.

Many high recurrence indicators had foreshadowed advancement.

But the widespread – induced challenge is far from over. Several economists have indicated that the second quarter had the fortunate convergence of pent – up request (amid the curfew) & progressive

There is space for vigilant buoyancy. But focus on public disbursing, resuscitating demand

fabrication for the festive season.

These blasts may squander going forward. There is also the question of the gradually but consistently constructing squeeze due to a proceeding deficiency in employment markets & cutbacks by companies. An HT investigation of 2,400 companies show that their profits increased in the September quarter despite sales decreasing. This has been accomplished via a cut in costs including remuneration. The most concerning part of the GDP numbers, however, is the pro – cyclical turn in administration spending.

There has been a collapse on this front contrasted to the first quarter.

While the Centre has declared many plans to cushion the widespread’ s affect, a decline in ad-

ministration spending appears that the actual financial support has not been equivalent. This requires a change.

There is also a big – picture message in the recent GDP numbers.

India’s economic challenge in a post – Covid world is not going to be a redevelopment of positive increment rates. That is more a question of when (December or March quarter) instead of in case.

The real question is whether the economy can retrieve a high development trajectory which gave way to a long slow down phase even before the widespread emerged. This will require a vision & procedure for development & corroborating that there is no enduring damage from the disturbance. The administration has released critical second generation reforms, which could release hitherto unexploited development probabilities. However, these probabilities will only emerge if there is a strong residential request. That should be the precedence now.

Findings by climate change experts and scientists have revealed that consumption of meats, especially red meat and even dairy, is burgeoning greenhouse gas emissions.

Australian scientist John Cook’s Skeptical Science reports that animal agriculture is responsible for 13-18 per cent of human-induced greenhouse emissions. More than 100 experts from both the global south and north came together for a research conducted under the ambit of Inter Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), concluding that plant-based diets can be a major opportunity to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

“We don’t want to tell people what to eat,” Hans-Otto Pörtner, co-chairman of IPCC’s working group on impacts, adaptation and vulnerability, had said on the report findings.

“But it would indeed be beneficial, for both climate and human health, if people in many rich countries consumed less meat, and if politics would create appropriate incentives to that effect,” he added.

Climate change, being a complex and humongous problem, has prompted climate change experts to divert their research into finding a sustainable diet for a sustainable future.

A 2019 report, published in the British medical journal The Lancet,

weighed the different factors and ramifications associated with food production. They included greenhouse gases, water and crop use, nitrogen or phosphorous from fertilisers, and the potential backlash on biodiversity if a region is converted into farmland. By managing all these factors, the report’s authors say climate change-inducing gases could be reduced and enough land could be reserved to feed the world’s growing population. A group of 30 scientists worked on devising recommendations for a largely plant-based diet, with occasional allowances for meat, dairy, and sugar. “Even small increases in the consumption of red meat or dairy foods would make this goal difficult or impossible to achieve,” the summary of the report states.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an agency of WHO, in France, had cautioned in 2015 that the consumption of processed meat was classified as ‘carcinogenic to humans’.

“Carcinogenicity is likely to be generated during processing methods such as curing and smoking, or when meat is heated at high temperatures,” explains Babina NM, CMO, Jindal naturecure Institute.

Current scenario augurs well for Vegan diets- being vegan is not just easier but aspirational and trendy as well. Vegans now include business tycoons, politicians and even sports players like Venus Williams and Virat Kohli — a challenge to the established norm of meat being essential to strength.

India will not only meet, but exceed Paris pact targets: PM at G20 meet

TAC News / New Delhi: India has set itself an ambitious target of generating 450 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030. Addressing G-20 leaders on a 'circular carbon economy approach' Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "We will meet our goal of 175 gigawatts of renewable energy well before the target of 2022. Now, we are taking a big step ahead by seeking to achieve 450 gigawatts by 2030."

India, he said, would not only meet its Paris Accord targets but exceed them.

Climate change, Modi said, "must be fought not in silos but in an integrated, comprehensive and holistic way." He said that India was adopting low carbon and climate-resilient development practices.

Highlighting two big initiatives spearheaded by India, the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), Modi said, "we are encouraging a circular economy. India is making next-generation infrastructure such as metro networks, waterways and more. In addition to convenience and efficiency, they will also contribute to

a cleaner environment."

The ISA is the fastest-growing international alliance with 88 countries having signed up so far.

"With plans to mobilise billions of dollars to train thousands of stakeholders, and promote research and development in renewable energy, the ISA will contribute to reducing carbon footprint," the Prime Minster said.

The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure has 18 countries and four international organisations as members. "Infrastructure damage during natural disasters is a subject that has not got the attention it deserves. The poorer nations are especially impacted by this.

Therefore, this coalition is important," Modi said, adding, India has "made LED lights popular. This saves 38 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year."

Smoke-free kitchens have been provided to over 80 million households through our Ujjwala scheme. This is among the largest clean energy drives globally. He added that India was attempting to eliminate the use of singleuse plastics, expanding forest cover and encouraging a circular economy.

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

5

nation

'When Sangh says Hindustan is Hindu Rashtra...'

Manikya Dheeren Long back, Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar popularised the celebration of six Indian festivals as part of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s calendar. Of these, Vijayadashami, which marks the triumph of good over evil is possibly the most important. On this day, not only did the Mother Goddess Durga slay the asura Mahishasura but, it is believed, Sri Rama also killed Ravana. In the Mahabharata, this is also the day when Arjuna singlehandedly defeated the Kaurava army. No wonder, the Vijayadashami address of the RSS chief is keenly awaited.

This year’s speech was delivered on Thursday, October 18, by RSS Sarsanghachalak Mohan Rao Bhagwat at the Reshimbagh Maidan, Nagpur. Bhagwat began by recalling how we would soon celebrate the 550th Prakash Parv or anniversary of Guru Nanak. Bhagwat stressed how Guru Nanak opened a “new path of self-enlightenment” by a “spiritual practice commensurate with the times.” He created a new sense of oneness in a society beaten and brutalised by “cruel, intolerant, savage foreign invaders.” We need not forget that the invader in question was Babar, who also destroyed the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir. When Babar con-

quered Punjab, it is recorded that Guru Nanak was himself taken captive. Bhagwat also acknowledged the Sikh Guru parampara: “It is his [Guru Nanak’s] legacy that gave the country a magnificent and majestic tradition of 10 gurus who removed our state of penury and inferiority.”

Next Bhagwat remembered Mahatma Gandhi, whose 150th anniversary we are celebrating.

Gandhi, according to Bhagwat, provided “the political foundation of truth and nonviolence to the independence movement of the country.” He was one in a long line of “several great personalities of this country” who inspired “continuous enlightenment” and strengthened our “inclusive culture, based on love and truth.” Gandhi “inspired the common man of the country to come out of his home and stand firmly with a moral force against the British oppression.” Bhagwat immediately switched to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which took place on Vaisakhi 1919, when soldiers of the British Indian army killed nearly a 1000 unarmed men and women.

The RSS has taken pains to clarify that the idea of ‘Hindu Rashtra’ is in no way akin to a theocratic state as the term Hindu (or Hindutva, Hinduness or Hinduism) is not a sectarian, class or denominational concept. “Hindutva is the essence of Rashtra's ‘Swa’ (self-hood). We are

“So to achieve financial independence in the future and attain a position of international cooperation we are open to foreign investors and give relaxations to companies offering newer technologies, provided they engage on our terms and mutually agreeable conditions.”

plainly acknowledging the selfhood of the country as Hindu because all our socio-cultural practices are directed by its principles with their spirit percolating in the personal, familial, professional and social life of each one of us,” Bhagwat explained in his speech.

In this context his suggestions to

Guru Properties

Sale, Purchase and Rent of all kind of Properties

the government on two aspects is interesting. As mentioned, the RSS would like the government to focus on economic restructuring with emphasis on ‘swadeshi’ but with Indian characteristics. What does this mean? Unlike its frontal organisations the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) and the Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM), the RSS seems to be clear about the need for foreign investments and engaging with the world strictly on ‘our terms’. It is for the government to set the rules of engagement.

Invoking veteran Gandhian Vinoba Bhave and founder of the SJM Dattopant Thengadi, the Sarsanghchalak laid new ground rules which identify a combination of self-reliance and non-violence as swadeshi. By quoting Thengadi as having claimed that Swadeshi cuts beyond goods and services and stands for attaining a position of international cooperation by achieving national self-reliance, sovereignty and parity, the RSS has cleared the path for the government to freely work on foreign investments-related policies. Bhagwat said: “So to achieve financial independence in the future and attain a position of international cooperation we are open to foreign investors and give relaxations to companies offering newer technologies, provided they engage on our terms and mutually agreeable conditions.” What

he probably indicated was that in the birth centenary year of D B Thengadi, the government better dust off his book The Third Way and do its homework.

In fact, in a departure from standard parameters of such speeches, Bhagwat raised issues such as the woes of the migrant labourers, skill development and the psychological effects of the pandemic such as lockdown and unemployment, especially of the unskilled and rural population. Other than his appeal to work for prevention of crime, depression and suicide through counselling and support services, Bhagwat’s suggestions to create employment opportunities and skill training could very well be part of Modi government’s future economic programmes reflected in the Budget.

This is not the first time that the RSS is giving its opinion on the prevailing economic situation and its suggestions at the macro level. In his 2018 Vijayadashami address, Bhagwat had spoken of “establishing our own model of development” in the light of the provisions of the Constitution. “Even after adopting the noble principles from the world, it is absolutely essential for the progress of the nation that we devise our own distinct model of development and corresponding framework based on our philosophical foundation,” he had said.

Call 9310 51 6829

AG 69, Ground Floor, Arcadia Market, South City-2, Gurugram

Education in rural India Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

nation Akshinta Das

are not regular in their job, also when they come they are not in a mood to perform their job with sincerity.

There is no second opinion that education plays a crucial role in shaping someone’s personality.

As per the survey reading, India’s has only 34 million people which forms a small strata of the entire population.

Major Hiccups in the education system

1. Deprivation of Money and Work Needs: A major need for withdrawal of children from school is the cost and work needs of poor households. Along with income, caste is an important factor too. Lower castes having lower incomes and higher castes having better endowments in terms of land, income and other resources.

3. Parental illiteracy: Parental illiteracy is an important factor for lack of interest to become literates. Many rural children enrolled are thus single handedly grappling with school life, mastering cognitive skills without parental help and guidance.

2. Enrollment in Municipal Schools: The poor children are enrolled in the municipal school because it has lower expenditure on books, uniforms, fees etc. The well-off children go to the private school, where English and Computers are given more importance.

4. Poverty amongst Muslims: Muslims happen to be one of the most economically backward

Publish your Ads in XV sue 2020 V, Is mber, . 5/Vol NovePrice Rs) 01-15 s 16, (NCR Page abad Farid

e.in ronicl anch theasi

hro asianc w.the ww

nicle.c

om

ail id: em

niclein hro asianc

f ay o ic w por- the Yog an The ng fies thelifim e th eat’. eati signi our you i-

ww

bo w.face

nicle hro anc m/asi ok.co

men n wo resIndia the p Whyerience married ur get jected yotimes t) exp men : the sure to obablyaremillioning for d e pr eas 20 ‘look men You’vher's plmes to C (a ce, 20 f mot it co - IB inan ess o when thori ord ctiven nomy’s u A effe ng eco n of Fake lli Daw The anism: A ectiveptem- fahielaman of Se s tari s Persp 16th ry wa ist e the New

d na an Harya ecutive Ex ad, ridab 803. E.IN .T, Fa 16/67 ONICL y, N.I NG/20NCHR Colon HAREEASIA ahar No. W.TH Jaw RNI n.

WW . 2, t No Moha OM | Streeoomika ICLE.C , 2569 Bh HRON itor from er) Sub Ed SIANC (Own 67), THEA mal W. t 18 vir Ka B Ac , WW ram der PRail.com of Ka ws un gm half ia@ ne on be ion of icleind on ect and r for for sel anchr ende nsible ail: asi

by Vir(respo 32, Em l* hed blis Kama 99 73 15 Pu & vir 98 ram 46, nted . Pri itor Ka 46 04 2020 na. Ed 9212 1 ber, vem , Harya ct +9 5 No 1001 . Conta na d 1-1 -12 perio ridabad , Harya 04 the for .T. Fa 20 hed 2, N.I ram-12 blis -14 , Pu rs, 3G Gurug ue-XVPrinte ti Vihar, , Iss wa Vol-V d at JoySaras printe : 431, Office

e Insid

il.com ma dia@g

ing et in what activ Nothe of di u are ysical dy is em tanc ng- ‘Yo s of phthe bo sayi l kind re’ of In al the ‘co ties,

6

on Min t th ntly ome abou Rece the H tions ber, d ques aske

Use Bans ireNGT Sale Of FNCR And kers In crac

groups, and the actual reason for their preferences for madrasas(Islamic schools) because they provide the most resources to them.

Solutions

1. Right to Education(RTE): India has the second largest education system after China, India viewed education as the best way of bringing social change among

ronicle asianch www.the

the masses. Soon after gaining independence in 1947, making education available to all had become a priority for the government and the government launched various schemes to uplift the level of education in the country, both in rural as well as urban sectors. The government came up with the Right to Education Act(RTE) to impart free and compulsory and many other schemes.

2. Need for serious reforms: The need of the hour is to improve the basic and the most important facilities immediately. In most of the government schools, the accountability among the teaching staff and administrative staff is lacking. Teachers are not regular in their job is lacking. Teachers

3. Motivating and guiding children: Teachers should motivate and guide the children and help them with counseling from the principal of schools. The much publicized mid-day meal to reduce dropout of funds meant for the scheme, mismanagement, lack of seriousness among the authorities. According to some reports, the quality of food served is inferior. There should be proper awareness created by the government about their schemes and programs. All the beneficiaries must have proper knowledge of their rights. Hence, er need to create awareness as well as motivation among the people for a brighter future of our country.

Conclusion

I like to end by saying “ We can change the world if we change ourselves. We need to figure out a way to step out of our comfort zones and take a risk. This can be done if we choose the right path to destiny.”

d a r u o Book y l l a c e in on 9 2 8 6 1 93105 6 4 4 0 6 4 2 1 2 9

.com

email

id: asian

india@ chronicle

m gmail.co

ianchron om/as ebook.c www.fac

icle

asianchronicleindia@gmail.com www.theasianchronicle.com www.theasianchronicle.in

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

7

health Causes

The cause of anemia truly comes down to how many red blood cells are being produced in the body and how healthy they are. A fall in hemoglobin levels during pregnancy is caused by a greater expansion of plasma volume compared with the increase in red cell volume.

The following are ways red blood cells can be affected and lead to anemia: m A lack of iron in the diet as a result of not eating enough iron-rich foods or the body’s inability to absorb the iron being consumed. m Pregnancy itself because the iron being produced is needed for the woman’s body to increase her own blood volume.

ANEMIA DURING PREGNANCY: A CHALLENGE’’ Dr. Sandhya

Anemia is one of the most commonly uncounted medical disorders during pregnancy.

Most vulnerable groups are adolescent, adult female and pregnancy. Anemia is defined as a decrease in the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood due to decrease in amount of RBCs or hemoglobin or both. Patients with anemia usually have symptoms like weakness, easy fatigability, headache, dizziness and in cases of severe anemia there may be palpitations, breathlessness, generalized swelling. Anemia during pregnancy is especially a concern because it is associated with low birth weight, premature birth, increased maternal morbidity and mortality. Anemia during pregnancy can be a mild condition and easily treated but it can become dangerous and challenging, to both the mother and the baby, if it goes untreated.

It is estimated that globally two billion women suffers from anemia or iron deficiency. In pregnancy most common type of anemia is iron deficiency anemia. According

Rhythima Agrawal

Boost your immune system in the winter and stay happier!

Winter has knocked at our doors.

We have already started dusting off our jackets that lay stacked in the attic all through the summer. With the chilly winds beginning to roam our streets, we are all afraid of what winter will bring.

Despite, the bold claims made by the companies for their products, there is little evidence that one particular supplement will provide a ‘boost’ to our complex immune system. Our immune system might not appreciate a boost – an over-stimulated immune system would cause us to feel constantly unwell with cold-like symptoms. An overactive immune response can be problematic and is at the root of some diseases such as lupus, arthritis and diabetes.

A weakened immune system would make our body more susceptible to common cold, influenza or campylobacter (food-borne bacteria). The immune system consists of two layers: 1. Specific immunity: If we do succumb to an infection, antibodies

to CDC approximately 56% of all women in India are anemic (i.e. <Hb 11 g/dl). In India anemia is directly or indirectly responsible for 40% of maternal death.

WHO CLASSIFICATION

Anemia in pregnancy is classified as mild, moderate and severe. According to WHO mild anemia 8-11 gm/dL, moderate anemia 5-7 gm/dL and < 5gm/dL as severe anemia.

According to ICMR – Mild anemia – 1010.9g/dl, moderate Anemia- 7-10g/dl, Severe anemia- Below 7gm/dl and Very Severe – below 4g/dl.

Iron-deficiency anemia

This occurs when the body does not have enough iron to produce adequate amounts of hemoglobin. About 1000 mg of iron is required during pregnancy. Approximately 15% to 25% of all pregnancies experience iron deficiency. Iron is a mineral found in the red blood cells and is used to carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body, as well as helps the muscles store and use oxygen.

Risk Factors for Anemia in Pregnancy

All pregnant women are at risk for becoming anemic. That's because they need more iron and folic acid than usual. But the risk is higher if: m Multiple pregnancies. m Have had two pregnancies close together m Teenage pregnancies m Had anemia before becoming pregnant

Common symptoms of anemia are

Symptoms of anemia during pregnancy can be mild at first, and often go unnoticed. However, as it progresses, the symptoms may become worse. It is also important to note that some symptoms can be due to a different cause other than anemia. m Pale skin, lips, and nails m Feeling tired or weak m Dizziness m Shortness of breath m Palpitations m Rapid or irregular heartbeat m Headache m Cold hands and feet

Risks factors for pregnancy outcome

Boosting immunity in winter

are produced to fight the specific virus or bacteria. If we fall sick again, our immune system remembers the virus, produces an antibody and gets rid of the virus or bacteria quickly.

2. Non-specific immunity: White blood cells are assisted by a set of proteins known as the complement system. These protect us daily by identifying and destroying viruses.

How to boost your immune system? You need not worry because there are some easy yet effective ways to uplift your immune system.

mEat to strengthen yourself – Focus on eating a healthy balanced diet, adding all components of foods in your meals- fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and sprouts. Eat clean and organic products as much as you can (regional and seasonal).

The nutrition in these foods will more than take care of your immunity. mAdd herbs and spices to your food – Herbs and spices have been known to have antibacterial and antiseptic healing properties, plus they make any dish taste great! Just a

Severe or untreated iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy can increase your risk of having -

m A preterm or low-birth-weight baby, IUGR m A blood transfusion (if lose a significant amount of blood during delivery) m Postpartum hemorrhage m Cognitive and affective dysfunction in the infant m Severe anemia may lead cardiac failure.

Prevention of anemia during pregnancy

Awareness and education regarding anemia and its effects on pregnancy .

Improving dietary habits like having iron rich foods, vitamin C helps in better absorption of iron.

Avoiding food which hinder iron absorption like tannins (tea,coffee), phytates etc.

Regular antenatal checkup and taking prophylactic iron /folic acid tablets.

Food fortification.

Lastly we can say that anemia continues to be a problem with the existing health care resources. Socio economic status, literacy of women and awareness related to health concerns are the major determinants that contribute to the problem of anemia. Therefore, public health education/information on reproductive health, monitoring the compliance of women with ante-natal care services are important health care measures to be undertaken at the community level. Also, it is time for realization that health system should focus on various factors that contribute to the occurrence of anemia and include them as an important indicator in the national health care policy.

Dr. Sandhya | Senior Resident Prasuti Tantra & Stri Roga, Institute of medical sciences Banaras Hindu Universuty

dash of this and a sprinkle of that and you’ve got yourself an immunity meal. mNatural antibiotic garlic – This bulb has earned a special place in this list for its anti-microbial properties. Eating raw garlic is one of the most potent (and pungent!) ways to improve your immunity. mDrink enough water – Water is the best way to cleanse our body of all the toxins and to ensure that our system stays healthy and hydrated as well as help strengthen your immune system. mExercise – This doesn’t have to be at the gym or a fitness studio, it could be a simple half hour walk every day. Exercising every day is vital for good health. It reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes and other diseases. It can improve your appearance and delay the aging process. mGet enough sleep – The immune system is strengthened and finetuned during sleep, and sleep deprivation can lead to weakening it.

Ensure that you get a good 8 hours of sleep every night to keep your immune system in good shape. mTry not to stress too much – It is now a well-known fact that stress

increases our susceptibility to illness and those with higher stress levels are falling ill more often. The best way to protect ourselves is to relax! Find some time to recharge, meditate, read or do yoga. Essentially, take a chill pill. mCut back on the sugar – Sugar is potentially damaging to your immune system because of its tendency to cause inflammations in the body, a thriving ground for microbes of the flu. Switch to natural sources such as fresh/dried fruits and your gut will thank you. mMassage – What could be a better way to improve your immunity system than having a relaxing massage? Massages stimulate the lymphatic system, the defense force of our body. mWash your hands – Of course you need to do this regardless of what season it is, but come winter with cold and the flu going around you’d be better off taking this simple precaution than having to worry about catching germs and getting ill. mUse coconut oil – Coconut oil is a natural healing and protecting substance and acts as a barrier for the skin from microbes. It will also leave your skin feeling incredibly soft and supple.

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

lifestyle

8

The Crowning Glories of Mrs. Delhi NCR 2020

Aakriti Sambyal from group A & Meghna Puri from group B was crowned Mrs Delhi-NCR 2020 in two different categories.

Shivani Mudgil First Runner & Preeti Dabas Second Runner Up from Group A, Ruchi Pant First Runner Up & Shweta Bora second runner up From Group B. The grand finale was held on November 21, 2020, at The Leela Ambience Gurgaon. This year the pageant focused on “Breast Cancer”, which is an alarming risk for today’s women. Star Plus show Kahaan Hum Kahaan Tum and Ms Rachana Khanekar who was the winner of ‘Mrs India-pride of nation face of West’ were part of the jury panel this year. Conceptualized by Barkha Nangia, Director – Glamour Gurgaon, says, “This year saw unexpected circumstances that took the entire world

Shweta Sarangal & Namrata Garg

Rajiv Gupta & Barkha Nangia

by the storm.” She further added, “Mrs Delhi-NCR strives to instil the confidence and empower women to be a better contributor to society. The finalists are the crème de la crème from among several who auditioned to fulfil their dream and be a responsible citizen of this society.”

All the final contestants walked the ramp wearing the collections by Chetan Veena Fashion Couture from Hyderabad and the evening gown collections are designed by A e n n a Sharma. Mrs Delhi NCR 2020 was DiUttam Bhagat rected & Choreographed by Shie Lobo.

Meghna Puri Winner Ravishing, Ruchi Pant & Sweta Bora

Preeti Dabas, Shivangi Mudgil & Winner Aakriti Sambiyal

Thanksgiving 2020: How to protect mental wellbeing Abhishek Nangia

Rajbir, Vishal, Abhishek, Barkha & Minty

Shie Lobo

physical activity can uplift disposition both within the short & long term.

It is a fact that neither work out nor sleep can supplant a hug from a companion or relative, but if our disposition is rapidly uplifted, it might help us manage dissatisfaction better & re-evaluate this tough year.

Maithillee Zaveri Thanksgiving is traditionally a time to share sustenance & gambols with our near & close relatives. For most of us, it is improbable to be the case this. With travel curtailments &isolations in place, we will need to conform.

Although this widespread has influenced everyone in several ways, there seems to be a little uncertainty that the standard mental wellbeing of the populace in the United state has decreased.

At a time when relatives & friends are usually the closest, this year, they will be farther away. Taking care of our mental wellbeing in a vigorous way is more crucial than ever as we enter the vacation season.

In this Special Edition, we will look at ways to deflect the seemingly inescapable days of a physically remote Thanksgiving. Even without a widespread to deal with, the vacation season brings anxiety & tensions, so with the added constraints this year has given to us, we are required to remain focused.

Right from the get – go, it is essential to elucidate that nothing we offer below can fill the void or recuperate the worry that COVID – 19 has made. Perhaps, though, it

Derek Denzil

Addressing Loneliness

Photo Courtesy: internetretailing.net

might touch the needle in the right course. Sometimes, baby steps, taken together, can create remarkable benefits.

Before we plunge in, here is something to bring to the front line of your intellect as often as possible over the near future:

Sleep

Being deprived of sleep tampers with our disposition. This can be instinctive, but it is also sponsored by study. For example, one research culminates, “ insomnia increases the negative emotive impacts of unruly events while lowering the positive impact of goal – enhancing events.”

In other words, if we do not get

sufficient sleep, we are more prone to feel negative when things go wrong, & we are less prone to feel cheerful when things go well.

Similarly, another research found that “ people become more impetuous & encounter less positive influence after a span of a short nap.

It is worth noting, though, that the relationship between sleep & mental wellbeing is complicated & two way – mental wellbeing problems can affect sleep calibre, & insomnia can harm mental wellbeing.

Remain Active

As the temperature decreases, compelling ourselves outside can become progressively challenging.

Researchers have manifested that

For many individuals, loneliness has already been a noteworthy highlight of 2020. Relying on companions & family amid Thanksgiving is prone to escalate those feelings of quarantine.

To oppose this, make an exertion to make contact. Whether it is a simple phone or video conversation, plan several discussions in.

Stay engaged. Free time can pass slowly. An engaged mind is less prone to reside on the loneliness.

Eat & Hydrate Well

“Healthy eating habits, such as the Mediterranean diet, are related with better mental wellbeing than ‘unhealthy’ eating habits such as Western diet.”

With this is mind, making certain that we eat well within the lead – up & the days post-Thanksgiving could help us keep a consistent

Yogesh Malik

mind.

While we are examining consumption, it is worth specifying liquor. In the long run, liquor increments the possibility of developing mental wellbeing issues, such as melancholy & nervousness. Although, at the time, liquor might uplift disposition & decrease nervousness, it will not help in the long run.

The Take – home

Individually, the tips outlined above can not supplant the great times we anticipate from Thanksgiving. However, if we make more of an attempt to eat right, sleep right & move around, the overall impact might be sufficient to enjoy several advantages.

Reach out & communicate with friends & family if you are feeling depressed. They could be feeling depressed & lonely too. Never feel anxious to converse about your emotions. No one is having the vacation season they expected.

As many individuals endeavour during this time, if might be difficult to view an end in vision. If you’re mulling over self – damage or if you know somebody who is, we have a list of amazing resources here. We’re all struggling & we’re in this together & we know it’ll all end soon.

9

Book Review

The novel "Purgatory Voyage" by Adarsh Kumar Khare is about a story that dates back to 925 AD of a village person, otherwise living peacefully, whose life is thrown into turmoil consequent to an extraordinary experience of the afterlife, an outcome of his deed (karma) and sense of inquiry. The story is beautifully weaved with threads of mythology, traditional Hindu beliefs, and folklore. At the same time, there is a conscious effort to bring out the social behavior, rituals, and festivities of village life of that period along with the political order of the King with his subjects.

There is a gripping narration of Kali, the protagonist of the novel, of other-worldly experience of his visits to after-life planets of hells and heavens, of torments and punitive actions meted out to sinners, and accounts of suffering the souls have to undergo for the various sins committed in their earthly lives. The author seems to have largely drawn from the ‘Pretkalp’ part of ‘Garud-Puran’ for making such a vivid description of the splendors of the city of Yam, the horrors of various hells, and the excruciating journey of an ordinary

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com soul through all this.

The most interesting part of this novel is the day-by-day recount by Kali of incidents, pain, and suffering of his soul and other fellow souls in his 10-days sojourn to different types of hells and also exploring parts of Yam City and heaven. The curiosity of a reader is held on toes as the account of each day unfolds, much like the Arabian nights.

Incidentally, the idea of a purgatory voyage is not unique to Hindu faith alone. In Christianity too, we have references of St. Patrick’s Purgatory and the most famous “Inferno” and “Purgatorio” of Dante. The concept of a mortal soul being subjected to punishments for the sins committed in their earthly life is a common theme in all major faiths, including Islam.

I find ‘Purgatory Voyage’ by Adarsh Khare a hugely fascinating story in which one cannot leave reading halfway. It latches on to your curiosity and leads your imagination till you reach the end and sigh a sense of relief and joy of having gone through the upheavals along with the protagonist of the story. I think this is the achievement of Adarsh Khare in writing this book.

Age Was Just a Number

Books with plots featuring romance and love are one of the most preferred when it comes to reading and equally favored when it comes to writing. It because of the manner in which things are

review Purgatory Voyage: Encountering Life After Death Author: Adarsh Khare

Book Title: Purgatory Voyage: Encountering Life After Death Author: Adarsh Khare Format: Kindle

narrated which brings a smile to the readers’ face and give them a relaxing and a memorable experience which makes this genre gaining so much favor.

Shaheen Kazi in her book, “Age Was Just a Number” brings a book to the readers which is not just packed with romance but at the same time, it also features a variety of emotions a person has in their life which include humor, sadness and maturity. This is what makes the readers laugh and cry and also feel sad for the characters and as a result, fall in love with the book and get attached to it.

Through the character of Sameera, the author shows how on moment in life can change the entire canvas for good and how, avoiding or running away from it is impossible. The author captures more than a decade of Sameera’s life, in which the readers see her growing up from a teenage cheeky brat whose smallest acts also make the reader’s smile and laugh along and see her growing up through her lonely years into a smart, mature woman who learns things more or less, the hard way. “Age Was Just a Number” as the title suggests, is somewhere about the game of age numbers playing a havoc in the lives of the characters and how situations change, the numbers change but individuals do not. The author begins the book with a note of sadness and the readers do know already that something is not right.

Even though Sameera tells her story in a very animated and lively manner, how things fall into place and how events happen with her, the readers always feel that air of sadness as they read through the initial stages of the book. She has light hearted arguments with her mother just like any other teenager. This as a character, gives her instant life of her own. The readers more feel like actually hearing those things aloud instead of reading them in framework of the book.

With this, Kazi works on several themes

Review by: Asit Kumar, Advisor in the Ministry of Petroleum, New Delhi.

Book Title: 4/5 Book Cover: 4/5

which develop simultaneously. These include the importance of age, purity of love, importance of family ties, friendship, making the right choices, recognizing one’s importance in the eyes of the others and many more in addition to these.

The readers agree more with what Harpreet, Sameera’s best friend says.

She is like the voice of wisdom who says what the readers think. But again, Sameera is like any regular girl who does the same things that girls in that situation do. The character of James represents shrewdness combined with stupidity. He may have said a lot of things in the story, but his actions are always under the radar of suspicion of the readers. He also shows the practical side of life. He is grown up and mature but that maturity does not pay off in the decisions he makes and the manner in which he treats people. The manner in which karma gets him is something that the readers may have always wanted but could not anticipate or predict happening. The falling apart of the Rodrigues’ family shows the unpredictability of life and how things can change without any prior knowledge.

“Age was just a number” harps on the idea of the fact that it is not necessary that any particular age can define when things can happen in life. It is only the human mind that decides when they should happen, but natural designs have no such boundaries. The narrative is mainly in the hands of Sameera. She is the one who narrates her tales of fun, moments of enjoyment and times of sadness. All these things bring her much closer to the readers as a characters and they can see through her actions yet overlook them due to her genuine and sweet nature. They cry with her in her sufferings because of James, get desperate as she does, wait with her for the right time, face the same dilemma as she does, but at the same time, they cannot

Inside the book: 4/5 Characters: 4/5 Narration: 4/5 Language & Grammar: 4/5 Final Rating: 4/5

predict how she would handle her situation when there will a change or an unexpected entry of her old flame. Rehan is the projection of the perfect timing in life, of the fact that things happen when anyone can least expect or perhaps has no expectations at all. But as soon as he enters the narrative, the readers know that time for Sameera have changed for good. Despite this, the author does keep an element of surprise for the readers and unveils it on the exact time when it was needed. Readers who are looking for a light hearted read which has the package of romance and many other things should go for reading Shaheen Kazi’s “Age Was Just a Number”.

Title

Age Was… Just A Number Author

Shaheen Kazi Published By

Evincepub Publishing Reviewed By

Akhila Saroha

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

tech.

Cosmetic Surgery- A Paradoxical Elixir

dance even the reality shows vehemently showcase their flesh and bones with sophistical intellection.

Lamentably, they are winning many innocent, strung out minds zooming in the opalescence of having a wellproportioned figure, ignoring the possible spinoffs.

Highly remunerative traffic for the cosmetic surgeons: And the last, with the advancement of medical sciences, most Specialists have found it a pretty lucrative medium to earn huge bucks without throwing light on the potential short term or long term side issues. They are sponsoring various kinds of aesthetic surgery done to improve one's features through TV advertisements, social media pages, newspapers, etc., with reasonable cost tempting many minds at a time.

Sudipta Chowdhury

There is no end of human ends.

But yes, there is always an end of ends.

We human beings are the most propitious species among all the genera known in the Universe, being endowed with basket of choices and windows, where we have the every occasion to upgrade us and our tomorrow. For people, life is to unlatch the doors of higher expectancies, it can be in any form viz. mental, physical and spiritual proliferation. Whatever we do in the process of experiment, the focus is to stretch our image far and wide.

But when we delve into this phenomenon of human progression, we find that humans most often groove on physical embroidery as the world by its very instinct adore peripheral beauty.

While talking about beauty statement, the very first thing bumps into our mind is ‘symmetry’ i.e. to be in rhythm, which is penetratingly, an infallible myth. Our day to day life unroll so many chapters of pulchritude, style and transmutation that we often float in morass of What we are? Or What we want to be? Or What we should be? We are found to be very much enraptured with the appropriation of beauty scale delineated by the society that is in fact pulling us far away from our immanent distinctions. Everybody wants to look beautiful and appealing, which is a natural human impulse but tuning out other adjectives which conclusively qualify our entity as a human being is not something warranted.

Now keeping pace with the growing beauty paradigm, people sometimes go out of their way to avail the vantage of Medical Science in order to attain a desirable composition.

And here comes the role of Cosmetic Surgery also popularly known as Aesthetic Surgery, which is a central component of Plastic Surgery and comes under its subspecialties.

A glimpse on the history and its progression

Although most of the people believe Plastic Surgery as a relatively new branch but it had its roots in the ancient medicine of more than 4000 years old in India, back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Where in the Internet Journal Of Plastic Surgery, 2006, we find that Sushruta, one of the earliest surgeons of the recorded history (600 B.C.) is believed to be the first Indian Medical Practitioner to describe plastic surgical procedure: the reconstruction of mutilated noses using tissue bridged from the cheek in his famous ancient treatise ‘Sushruta Samhita’ (Sushruta’s Compendium) and is

10

Risks should not be discounted Self-esteem should not be underestimated

one of the oldest treatises dealing with surgery in the world indicates that he was probably the first surgeon to perform plastic surgical operations. Since then, this area has witnessed several advancements over the years.

According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, both the plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery deal with improving a patient’s body and are closely related specialties, but they are not the same. The overarching philosophies guiding the training, research, and goals for patient outcomes are quite different.

Here the former relates to the surgical specialty or procedure to reconstruct the facial and body defects due to birth disorders, trauma, burns and disease. It is purely dedicated to correct the dysfunctional areas of the body. And the later focus on enhancing one’s appearance to improve his or her aesthetic appeal and hence ensuring more symmetrical feature. This surgery can be performed on all areas of the body and are designated as elective as it treats areas that function properly. This procedure is performed by doctors from a variety of medical fields, including plastic surgeons.

Since my topic of discussion is related to people’s obsession with beauty, I will keep my pen confined to this domain of Medical Science i.e. cosmetic surgery, which has skillfully captured the beauty industry in no times and one of the fastest growing markets in the world.

Cosmetic surgery is an elective surgery that is performed on normal parts of the body only to enhance one’s beauty and self-confidence.

There are many procedures available, but here are some most popular cosmetic procedures listed by the Florida Medical Clinic include:

mAbdominoplasty (tummy tuck) - Reshaping and firming of the abdomen. mMammoplasty – Breast augmentations by means of fat grafting, saline or silicon gel prosthetics. mLip Augmentation- Alter the appearance of the lips by increasing their fullness with lip implants or injectable fillers. mRhinoplasty – Reshaping of the nose. mRhytidectomy (face lift) – Removal of wrinkles and signs of aging from the face. mBlepharoplasty – Reshaping of upper or lower eyelids. mLiposuction – Removal of fat deposits by suction technique or ultrasonic energy to aid fat removal. mBotulinum Toxin or Botox – A range of cosmetic surgery procedures aim to improve appearance. mChemical Peel – Cosmetic procedures to improve the texture and tone of skin.

The average age of patients who receive cosmetic surgery is 41.

Treatments such as breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, and dermabrasion are common among younger patients while the procedures including blepharoplasty, breast lift, facelift and botox are more commonly sought by older patients. According to the information given by Fortune Business Insights in a recent report titled ‘’Cosmetic Surgery Market Size, Share and Industry Analysis’’ states that the cosmetic surgery market size was USD 50.67 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach USD 66.96 billion by 2026, exhibiting a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 3.6% during the forecast period.

The peer pressure for appearance and changing dimensions of beauty are the key factors influencing the

growth of the market.

Why is Cosmetic Surgery on the Rise

Now, if we come to the probable reasons behind the significant vegetation of people’s proclivity towards enhancement of their appearances, we will encounter multitudinal coaxing factors, where I am going to cite a few important points, viz.

Melodramatic plea of the contemporary world: The first one is modernization, which is playing a primary role in this arena. As people now of the modern century are becoming more skin conscious unlike those of the old-school days. Their impression towards a seductive figure, desirable complexion is getting condensed, that is close or far dominating their minds with its hypnagogic advantages.

Glamour industry acting as a catalyst: Secondly, the globalization of haute couture are influencing millions with their portrayal of trendy accouterments and trousseau demanding sculpted faces and bodies to exhibit their eminence in the world of fashion industries. They are directly or indirectly compelling people to become more aware and responsive with their physical delicacy.

Show business swaying the innocent minds: Thirdly, the entertainment industry, perhaps the substantial influencer in the list which has been experiencing dramatic changes in its overall ambient since last three decades. There was a time when mostly flicks or movies were based on ostending of acting skills of the artists along with some strong moral messages. But now it has turned to a completely new territory where most of the movies,

People now a days are in the absolute possession of glamour and beauty that push them hard to go under these deadly procedures, where they don't even bother about the future repercussions and health hazards. Even most of the researchers believe that such cosmetic plastic surgery obsession is linked to a kind of psychological disorders called Body Dysmorphic Disorder, whereby a person has a strong predilection towards these sorts of exceptional measures to correct perceived defects in their bodies or faces. Such disorder can even lead to commit suicide by some of its sufferers if they are found unhappy with the outcome.

Undoubtedly, it has proven to be a boon for many people who were suffering from low self- esteem, anxiety issues, depression and insecurities about their physical appearances, but somehow they have forgotten their worth in the process.

For them life is swiveling around the unfaithful protoplasm Beauty that engulfs their minds with its false crown. In order to look more imposing, curvaceous and commensurable they choose to alter their identity spending piles on surgeries and counter measures, ignoring the facts that Beauty is not just a union of beautiful face, voluptuous figure, fair complexion but also a set of compassion, attitude and wisdom. We people should not forget that there is no definite quintessential effigy of beauty as the subjective idea is constantly changing with times. Embracing one’s true being is always worthwhile not the superficial surface which will certainly lose its luster today or tomorrow.

Don’t please the world with your Skin Because you Can’t Please them with your Character The rest is their Errand.

11

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

lifestyle

The Untold Story Of Sound Around Us

Sidhharrth S. Kumar

Have you ever thought that every sound frequencies generated, be it the chirping of birds, honking of vehicles or loud music systems, directly affects our body? Did you know that even when an individual is quietly standing, sitting or sleeping, s/he is constantly emitting certain frequencies to the surroundings? What will be your reaction if you also get to know that these sounds, if used in the right way and proportion, can heal you and do miracles to your mind and body? Surprising, right? This piece of information will change your life - it’ll make you believe that everything around us is as magical as we think of it. Read ahead to know how it can also help in curing Alzheimer’s disease, Autism and even Cancer!

Since ages, certain frequencies of sound (even inaudible ones) are being used in therapies, to manipulate human brainwaves so as to promote healing of the body and mind.

Holistic healers use these frequencies to manipulate and alter human consciousness, induced by shamanic chanting and drum work.

Therapies by acoustic methodologies are gaining popularity since it promotes self-healing, within the body. Since ancient times, Solfeggio frequencies have been used to create sacred music like meditation music, etc.. Just as different frequencies can heal physical and mental ailments, certain among them can work by alleviating psychiatric problems like anxiety or depression, if not cure them

completely.

As per the understanding of Pythagoras who discovered the harmonic relationship between different mathematical ratios and various musical chords, daily exposure to music proved to be beneficial for human health. Music is proven to evoke a gush of emotions from the human body, which also helps to flush out different emotions and stabilize the mental state.

Instruments such as pan flutes, rainstick, djembe, windchimes, etc. are some of the instruments that are commonly used in sound frequency therapy.

Sound frequencies impact the human body and health in several ways, a few of which are as mentioned below:

1. 40 Hz: used in Alzheimer’s therapy; increases neural response and fights symptoms of dementia.

2. 174 Hz: a series of tones is used in sacred music, reduces stress and pain.

3. 285 Hz: helps in the healing of cuts, burns and other physical wounds; also helps in the cellular regeneration in the body, which encourages the body to self-heal, in the event of an injury.

4. 396 Hz: helps in removing negative feelings such as fear, guilt and transforms them into positive and joyful emotions.

5. 417 Hz: mainly focuses on removing negative energies such as the ones that are in the surround-

ings or those born due to past trauma; helps in the dissolution of emotional blockages and activation of the sacral chakra.

6. 432 Hz: aims at the heart chakra; leads to greater levels of clarity, emotionally and mentally and

enhances spirituality.

7. 440 Hz: leads to cognitive development and activates the thirdeye chakra.

8. 528 Hz: known as the miracle tone or the love frequency, it is closely related to blessings.

9. 639 Hz: used in therapy which intends to induce positive feelings and in the enhancement of interpersonal relationships; encourages situational awareness and clearer communication practices.

10. 852 Hz: helps in diverting mind to prevent overthinking and negative thinking pattern.

11. 963 Hz: also known as the Frequency of Gods or a Pure Miracle Tone, it helps in the activation of the crown chakra and proves to evoke a connection to the source of all humanity; activates the pineal gland and leads to higher spiritual development.

Among these, the frequencies 396, 417, 528, 639, 741 and 852 Hz have been categorised as the Solfeggio frequencies. These frequencies particularly help in the transformation and fixing of broken situations, improving interpersonal relationships, spiritual enlightenment, miracles and DNA repair, liberation from negative feelings, in solving problems and enhancing creative expression. Apart from this, the frequency of 528 Hz is given special attention since it is known to connect with the vibrations and frequencies that are naturally found in the world.

When used rightly, these frequencies have proven to show positive effects in altering stress hormones, autistic sensory therapy, cancer treatment without surgery, enhancing spiritual development, promoting healthy relationships and in decreasing the pain perception.

Sound healing frequencies through music therapy have also been used in Stroke recovery therapy, for en-

hancement of acupuncture and in the hospital settings so as to decrease the anxiety levels and for the promotion of higher morale. In general, higher frequencies of sound are used for healing purposes as an alternative to medicines because lower and vibrational frequencies are usually thought to cause disease, irritation and similar negative effects in the human.

The frequency that an individual usually operates depends on the unresolved feelings and stress levels of the individual. Under normal conditions, an individual resonates with a natural frequency of 65-75 MHz. Lower frequency sounds are generally related to negativity, irritability and can also prove to be psychologically distressing, thus causing an uncomfortable pressure on the eardrums and physical fatigue. This happens because of the fact that these frequencies strife with the frequencies naturally produced by the body. Just as lower frequencies are bound to show negativity in the body, the higher frequencies have shown to heal them.

Since sound healing requires energy, it is a type of energy healing.

Reiki is one of the great examples wherein energy healing is practised.

Sound Frequency Healing is an evolving art, which has recently begun gaining scientific credibility owing to its miraculous properties.

Though researches are still going on, the frequencies will continue to play a big role in the healing process and treatments for an infinite course of time.

Self-Care is not Selfish but Sustenance!

Ann Mary Philip

Pause and take a moment to ask ourselves whether we practice self-care. Do we live a balanced life? Pondering over this question can make us feel self-care is everything. Yes, it is. It is a vital, life-saving act of self-kindness that gently eases our way back to health.Everyone deserves to practice self-care to help them find a state of good mental and physical health, reduce stress, meet emotional needs, maintain one’s all kinds of relationships and find a balance between one’s personal and professional/academic life.

We may feel that making time to nurture ourselves is an unnecessary effort, as some of the people around us seem unsettled. But this is because we ignore our self-worth. We tell ourselves we don’t need it, and we don’t deserve it. That it’s pointless and self-indulgent.

That it’s selfish. But self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential. We can’t do or be all the things we want to without taking care of ourselves.

Self-care is a daily practice. It is a deliberate and intentional process of tending to one’s mind, body, and spirit. Self-care includes

one’s ability to take care of the activities of daily living as well as activities that one engages in to relax or attain emotional wellbeing.Self-care differs from person to person. And on top of that, as we grow, change and develop, our self-care needs change too.

Self-care never stops being a work in progress – but it is so worth the effort. We just need to take it one step at a time But even when we’re raring to go, self-care can feel overwhelming. While a lot is talked about it, many of us are still not quite clear what it is.

We may be unsure about how to start building it in our lives – or indeed where to start.

How do people practice self-care?

While there is a lot about self-care that is universal (sleeping, eating, etc.), there are

many different ways individuals can tailor their self-care to suit their needs. Some individuals may enjoy journaling, whereas others enjoy practicing embroidery or painting as a form of selfcare. For some, self-care means unplugging from social media, and for others, it means letting themselves binge watch a season of their favorite show after a particularly stressful week.

What are the different ways to practice self-care?

Self-care can be practiced in many different ways including physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual, personal, and professional. Some examples of physical self-care would be eating healthy and getting enough sleep. Psychological self-care includes selfreflection and practicing asking for help.

Sidhharrth S. Kumar is an eminent Astro Numerologist and Healer.

Emotional self-care can be practicing selfcompassion and forgiveness. Spiritual selfcare may be volunteering for a cause or taking a yoga class. Personal self-care can include making a vision board or just relaxing.

Professional self-care can include leaving work at work and taking vacation days.

What if, rather than using self-care as a rescue remedy, we think of self-care as our daily power-ups – the actions we take to keep our power topped up?We can be certain that there will be something in our future that will test us and use up our feeling-well-ness. We all need allies to help us fight the enemies (depression, anxiety, boundaries and other things that deplete us). We can power up our strength by taking care of our emotional, mental, physical and social needs.

And doesn’t ‘power up’ sound much more fun and less obligatory? It takes that sense of playfulness from gaming, of possibility, of hope, of there being infinite endings and applies it to real life. We can change our view of self-care from being something we only do when we need to, to something that’s fun to build up and collect as we go along. Like a real-life hero, which is what you are.

Peasant's movement is only a political conspiracy Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

opinion

Lalit Garg The agonizing nature of the peasant's movement in the borders of Delhi and allowed them to enter Delhi and perform at Burari ground, is not only sad but also worrying amid the increasingly dangerous situations of the Corona epidemic. This movement is a conspiracy of political lepers more than the interests of the farmers.

Putting the lives of farmers in jeopardy and abetting them for the movement is exposing political anomaly and conspiracy. There is a need to be very careful, when life is in danger, then no wrong start like the peasant movement is in the national interest, because the wrong start of the maths question cannot give the right answer.

Choosing the wrong direction and wrong time does not lead to the right destination. This peasant movement is becoming more hatred than sympathy, which has become challenging not only for Haryana Police but also for Delhi Police. In view of the present health and life-saving needs, the Central Government does not want any kind of protest to be held in Delhi, so some force is also used against the farmers trying to enter Delhi via Punjab through Haryana. Due to barricading along the border, problems of long vehicular traffic have been noticed at Delhi, Ghaziabad, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad and Sindhu borders.

Metro services have also been affected. A large number of farmers involved in the movement have not used masks or social distance while flouting the instructions issued for Corona.

The greatest need is to prevent such anarchy, instability and indiscipline. Seeing this need, farmers were prevented from reaching Delhi in any way, it should also be stopped. All the political parties that have given rise to such a movement are national. It seems that in the name of farmer interest, they are doing politics of protest, without worrying about their ego and without understanding the basic spirit of the bills. The Congress and other parties are resorting to deception and lies to mislead, confuse and mislead the public and farmers against these laws.

The police had made it clear that if the farmers try to come to Delhi

during the time of Corona epidemic, it is a violation of the laws.

Legal action will be taken against them. However, politics is also being blamed for the problems caused to the common people or farmers. This is not the time to take political advantage from such movements. The entire nation is surrounded by endless problems related to Corona, the situation in Delhi is worse. At such a time, it is ironic to do politics on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's experiments to stop farmers. It is not only about Kejriwal but the Chief Minister of Punjab is also responsible for this.

Clearly, the Chief Minister of Punjab wants farmers to show their strength by protesting in Delhi. This thing is not hidden, in the past, the Chief Minister of Punjab had also protested in Delhi, but his demand was not accepted.

In a hurry he has tried to make such laws on his behalf to please the farmers, but he knows that this law will not be approved without the consent of the Central Government. The performance of the farmers in Punjab is going on continuously, so the politics of changing the place of protest is not surprising at all. If farmers raise their voice in Delhi instead of Punjab, it is favorable to Punjab, but how can it be favorable for Delhi?

In a way, it has been proved, how fundamental and impractical is the contradiction in Indian politics.

When our politicians go on a confrontation, they probably do not think what message is going on in the country. Has Indian politics today become so insensitive and insensitive that it has not bothered to endanger the lives of innumerable people?

Everyone has the right to peacefully agitate in India, but during the Corona epidemic, the peasant movement should not be prolonged, it requires serious efforts.

The main objective of these demonstrations being carried out by various factions of the country's farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organizations like All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee, Rashtriya Kisan Mahasangh and Bhartiya Kisan Union is the pressure on the Central Government to withdraw the three new agricultural laws passed by the Narendra Modi gov-

ernment.

Front leaders say that whether they get permission to protest or not, the farmers will reach Parliament and demonstrate. The figure of deaths in Delhi in the Corona period has already created a lot of fear. New cases of infection are not being named less. In such a situation, the agitation of farmers will only cause trouble. In such a situation, it would not be appropriate for farmers of Punjab, Haryana, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh to participate in the demonstration. Peasant demonstrations can lead to conflict situations.

The central government will now have to take serious initiatives in the direction of interaction with the farmers. If farmers have some apprehensions and insecurity about new reforms, they should be removed. Farmer organizations, on the other hand, should also exercise restraint. Prime Minister

12

Narendra Modi is also enumerating the benefits of agricultural laws from almost every platform.

The movement is better that it is disciplined and that neither the agitators nor other people nor states are harmed. Whatever doubts are there can be resolved. There have been changes in the laws. It would be better if the farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organization withdraw their movement in the interest of the country.

The Haryana government is right to pressurize the farmers to stop Delhi's efforts. The battle between the Chief Ministers of Punjab and Haryana on Twitter is the only indication that politics is more responsible behind the farmer movement. Taking a dig at the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Haryana government to stop the farmers marching towards Delhi, the Punjab Chief Minister said that it is completely undemocratic and unconstitutional to use force against the farmers. To this, the Chief Minister of Haryana responded by tweeting that I have already said and I am repeating it again that I will leave politics, if there is any problem on MSP, so please stop instigating innocent farmers. It is clear from this kind of unpleasant dialogue between the Chief Ministers of the two neighbouring states; there is a lack of healthy dialogue and coordination between the states. If the struggle is going on the basis of ideological or political differences, will the national capital have to suffer its loss? Can such problems be solved by farmers in spite of such differences?

The farmer will be strong only then he can go to any other corner of the country and sell his produce, but at the same time, the basic Indian system of 'Mandi' and MSP also needs to be strengthened. The Central Government has repeated these same things that the system of Mandi and support price will remain. In such a situation, why does distrust and opposition arise in non-BJP governments or peasant society? The responsibility of removing it may be more on the central government, but the opposition should also play a positive role in this task. It is time to assure the country in collaboration with all the farmer organizations, so that there is a satisfactory response to the politics started in the name of farmers. Efforts should be intensified to listen and satisfy the farmers on decisive forums in time.

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

13

society

Women crucial to Biden's win, even as gender gap held steady Shivani Shukla

Women were a key factor in Joe Biden's presidential victory; if only men had voted, Donald Trump would have won instead.

Ask Virginia voter Mary Hayes why Joe Biden defeated Donald Trump and she does not hesitate.

“Women won this election!” says Hayes, 56, a mother of three and Biden supporter from Leesburg, Virginia. In particular, she credits two categories of voters that she herself is part of: Black women and suburban women Trump had begged the latter group — some of whom he’d alienated by referring to them as “housewives" — to “please, please” like him. But that plea rang hollow, she says.

“We showed America that suburban women are diverse, and are a beautiful collection of ethnicity, race, marital status, occupations and many other categories," Hayes says. “Suburban women mobilized, determined to remove Trump from office." And, she says, they succeeded.

From nearly the moment Trump took the presidential oath, it was women who were the face of the resistance — marching in enormous numbers in their pussy hats, and fueling Democratic gains in the 2018 midterm elections.

So in 2020, the year women celebrated the centennial of the 19th Amendment guaranteeing their right to vote, many had expected — and some polls suggested — a dramatic repudiation of Trump with a widened gender gap. The results were a bit more complicated.

Hayes is correct that women were crucial to Biden’s victory — simply stated, if only men had voted, Trump would have won.

Black women and suburban women, in particular, proved to be pillars of Biden's coalition. But the election also delivered a reminder of Republicans' strength with other groups of women.

Trump had a modest advantage among white women, and a much wider share of white women without college degrees, according to AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 110,000 voters. And despite expectations that the much-analyzed gender gap would expand, it remained essentially the same from previous elections, including 2016.

In Congress, the big news was significant gains for Republican women, and overall a record number of women will serve in the 117th Congress — at least 141, including 105 Democrats and 36

Republicans, according to current numbers from the Center for American Women in Politics at Rutgers University.

Overall, the results are “a moving target,” says Debbie Walsh, director of the center. But it was in sum "a good year,” she says, “both for the election of women candidates on both sides, and for the participation of women voters.“ And of course, a huge glass ceiling was shattered with the election of the first female vice president, Kamala Harris.

AP VoteCast showed a 9 percentage point difference between men and women in support for Biden and Harris: 55% of women and 46% of men. That was essentially unchanged from the 2018 midterms, when VoteCast found a 10-point gender gap, with 58% of women and 48% of men backing Democrats in congressional races.

Contrary to some expectations, “this was a very average gender gap,” says Susan J. Carroll, professor of political science and women’s and gender studies at Rutgers.

The gender gap in support for Democratic candidates has averaged about 8 percentage points in the last 10 presidential elections, according to data from the American National Election Studies.

So for anyone who’d been looking for a wave election on either side, there was “barely a ripple,” Carroll says. Still, Republican women in Congress, who have long lagged behind their Democratic counterparts, made notable gains: At minimum, a record 36 GOP women will serve in Congress next year, and they've already more than doubled their representation in the House.

Among newly elected GOP women who flipped seats:

Stephanie Bice in Oklahoma, Michelle Fischbach in Minnesota, Yvette Herrell in New Mexico, Ashley Hinson in Iowa, Young Kim in California, Nancy Mace in South Carolina, Nicole Malliotakis in New York, Maria Elvira Salazar in Florida, Michelle Steel in California.

“That’s been the story of this cycle,” says Walsh of Republican women. “They made up all the ground they lost in 2018.” Yet there remains a sizable gap with their Democratic colleagues; at least 89 Democratic women will be serving in the House.

Feminist leader Eleanor Smeal says that’s an important gain, even though she herself doesn’t agree with the GOP platform. “If we’re going to get to half of Congress, we’re going to have to have more Republicans as well as more Democrats,” says Smeal, president of the Feminist Majority.

Smeal adds that the gender gap, while perhaps smaller than she’d hoped, was still crucial in the presidential race. “It helped Biden and Harris carry the suburbs,” she says, noting in particular the suburbs of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh in the crucial state of Pennsylvania, which Biden won.

VoteCast showed that Trump narrowly beat Biden among white women, largely on the strength of support in rural areas and small towns. But Biden dominated with women in the suburbs, winning 59% to Trump’s 40% of a group that makes up around a quarter of the electorate nationwide. Biden won overwhelmingly among Black women, 93% to Trump’s 6%, according to VoteCast.

Trump won handily among white women without college degrees — 60% to 39% — while Biden won white women with

college degrees by roughly the same margin.

The results show yet again that despite a steady overall gender gap, “there are different groups of women that made a difference for each camp,” Walsh says.

Hayes is one of the suburban women who mobilized early, dismayed at what she called the president’s dog whistles in trying to stoke fears among suburban women that low-income housing would invite crime and ruin their neighborhoods. She formed a Facebook group, “The Real Suburban Housewives for Biden/Harris,” which drew over 5,000 members, including “a few brave men.”

“Some (of us) are housewives, some are career women, some are mothers and some are not,” Hayes says. “Suburban women are thinkers, business owners, and we fight for our families. America should work together like suburban women — maybe they could get something done in the government.”

A key element of the gender gap this year, some advocates have noted, is not about women but men: Men appeared to be somewhat more likely to back Biden in this election than they were to back Hillary Clinton in 2016.

VoteCast shows 46% of men supported Biden. In 2016, 41% supported Clinton, according to a Pew Research Center analysis.

That, say advocates like Smeal, may be at least in part due to discomfort among some men — or misogynistic attitudes — about Clinton.

“There’s no question that in 2016 there had been a massive negative campaign against Hillary Clinton, and some of that was against her sex,” Smeal says.

“There were so many sexist things thrown at her and it was for a long period of time.”

There was obviously one major gender barrier broken this election — the ascension of a woman to the second highest office in the land.

“It is just spectacular that you have not only women running for these high offices but you now have the first one to win, and a Black Asian woman to boot," Smeal says. "As she said, she might be the first woman, but she won’t be the last.”

Says Hayes: “It will feel good to have someone in the White House with shared experiences. She gives all women and little girls hope that in a male-dominated government, no level is off limits.”

India's economy shrinks 7.5% in Q2: What experts said

TAC News/ BENGALURU: India's economy contracted 7.5% in the quarter to September, according to official data on Friday, showing some signs of a pick-up after the easing of pandemic restrictions that triggered a record contraction in the previous quarter.

The read-out for the September quarter was better than the 8.8% contraction forecast of analysts in a Reuters poll.

Rupa RegeNitsure, group chief economist, L&T Financial Services, Mumbai: "Today's statistics show that GDP contraction has narrowed, partly helped by decent agricultural growth and some pick up in manufacturing activities.However, critical employment generating sectors like construction, mining and services continue to stay weak.”

She added that this data needs to be interpreted with caution as India has a very large unorganised sector and the measurement of its value added was not feasible due to restrictions on the movement of data collectors."

Garima Kapoor, economist - institutional equities, Elara Capital, Mumbai said, "Today's GDP print increases our confidence that recovery is gaining pace and is becoming more broad-based. While during the initial period of unlocking, rural economy’s buoyancy was supportive, urban demand too has begun to normalize in pre-festive period.”

She further elaborated, ‘’Although the resurgence of Covid-19 cases in key cities in India as well as globally remains a risk, we believe that a significant part of the demand resurgence in India is attributable to Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities and rural India and hence the downside risks to growth remain capped. We retain our FY21 GDP growth forecast to 7%.’’

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

haryana

14

Hry is fully prepared for Covid-19 vaccination: Vijai Vardhan

Haryana Chief Secretary, Vijai Vardhan said that the State Government is fully prepared for the Covid-19 vaccination programme.

Following which, a State Level Steering Committee, District Task Force and Block Task Force have been constituted in the state as per the directions of Central Government. A Test-Run of Co-Win software developed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will be conducted first in Haryana and two other states due to their preparedness for the vaccination programme.

Vijai Vardhan informed this while attending a video conference regarding Covid-19 Status and Vaccine Programme chaired by Cabinet Secretary, Rajiv Gauba. The Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories also attended the video conference.

While giving directions, Rajiv

Drug peddler arrested with 400 kg doda

Haryana Police has arrested an alleged drug peddler after seizing 400 kg doda post from his possession in Jind district.

While Giving this information, a Haryana Police spokesman informed that a huge stock of doda post had been seized during a raid conducted at a shop by a team of Crime Investigation Agency.

After getting a secret input from an informer, the police team immediately conducted a raid at a shop located at Dhakal road, Narwana and seized 21 bags of doda post containing a total of 400 kg drug. The estimated value of seized drug was around Rs 25 to Rs 30 lakh.

Initial investigations revealed that the contraband was being smuggled from Madhya Pradesh for supply in Punjab. The arrested accused was identified as Ashok Kumar, a resident of Khark Pandwa, Kaithal presently living at Narwana.

A case under the relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act was registered against the accused. He was taken on remand by producing in the court so as to ascertain the involvement of others in this racket of drug peddling. Further investigation in the case is underway, he added.

Gauba said that now the situation has come to resume all the activities across the country. He further instructed that the concerned State Governments should meticulously ensure the implementation of new Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) at the ground level.

He also instructed to promote COVID-19 appropriate behaviour campaign. Besides this, the Directors-General of Police of the con-

cerned state were also directed to strictly implement the norms of wearing masks. He further instructed to impose penalty on those who violates the norms of wearing face masks.

In the meeting, Vijai Vardhan assured the Cabinet Secretary that Haryana Government has been following and implementing guidelines of the Central Government as issued from time to time. He further assured that all the work will be done as per the new guidelines.

He said that Haryana has submitted 96 percent data of the staff working in Government Health Sector like Doctors, Para Medical staff etc whereas about 51 percent data of the staff in Private Health Sector has been submitted to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for prioritizing population groups for Covid-19 vaccination programme. He further informed

that 100 percent data will be uploaded within a week.

Vijai Vardhan said that adequate resources are being made available for Covid-19 vaccine across the state. The situation is being monitored by holding regular meetings.

He said that the state government has been consistently performing well during immunization campaigns launched from time to time by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. He assured that there will be no shortage of cold storage chains and other logistic facilities during COVID-19 vaccination in the state.

He said that to remain vigilant is the most effective way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 which requires a change in the behaviour of the people so that they can understand seriousness of the situation amid this hour of crisis while following the guidelines issued by the

Government. For this, people are being made aware and encouraged to wear face masks, keep their hands clean and maintain social distancing under COVID-19 appropriate behaviour campaign.

A presentation related to COVID19 pandemic was given by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and informed that the State Level Steering Committee will regularly organize meetings to ensure cold chain storage and other logistics facilities during Covid-19 vaccination. Besides this, additional arrangements for cold storage points etc. should also be ensured in urban areas. It was informed in the meeting that data related to Prioritized Population Groups for COVID-19 Vaccination has been uploaded on Co-Win software and Test-Run of this software will be performed in Haryana, Rajasthan and Telangana.

Haryana will host the Khelo India Games- 2021

Haryana Chief Minister, Manohar Lal said that the synthetic track constructed at a cost of Rs. 4.65 crore at Giri Centre in Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, will prove to be a milestone for sportspersons. After practicing from here, the sportspersons will bring laurels to the state and country at the national and international level.

Manohar Lal was addressing a gathering at the inauguration of this international synthetic track. After this, the Chief Minister also inaugurated the International Scientistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Hostel in the university itself.

The Chief Minister said that the Khelo India programme is being run for the sportspersons up to the age of 19 years, with very positive results.

With this, the sportspersons are able to make their mark at the national

and international level by practicing in their teens, he added. He said that Haryana will host the Khelo India Games- 2021 and its main centre will be Panchkula. In this game, 12,000 to 15,000 sportspersons from all over the country will participate and 20 types of events will be organized during the Games. He said that competitions are usually held in November or December under Khelo India,

but this time it was not possible due to COVID-19 Pandemic. Therefore, Haryana will host these games in the coming year.

He called upon the sportspersons to start preparing for it so that they can perform well in these sports. Education Department and Sports Department play an important role in the successful organization of these sports. He expressed hope that along with hosting these games, the emphasis will be on winning as well.

On this occasion, 100 meters race was organized for girls and 400 meters for boys. Apart from this, the Chief Minister, the Vice-Chancellor, and other officers also raced on the track.

Vice Chancellor, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Professor Samar Singh, while apprising the Chief

Guest of the achievements of the Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sportspersons said that the players who have practiced here have brought laurels to the university at the international level.

Director of Student Welfare, Dr. Devendra Singh Dahiya, while elaborating about the sporting achievements of the university said that among the sportspersons who have brought laurels to the country by practicing here, Ms. Geeta Zutshi participated in the Olympic Games and has been a Padma Shri award winner.

Haryana Assembly Deputy Speaker, Ranbir Gangwa, MLA Hisar, Dr. Kamal Gupta, besides the District Administrative Officer, University Founder, Director, and Head of the Department and other dignitaries of the city were also present during the programme.

Students of 8-12th class will SDIT Dept. has signed 2 MOUs with Medha get tablets for online classes Learning Foundation for best training

Haryana Government has planned to give tablets free of cost to the children of government schools in view of the current COVID-19 pandemic situation.

An official spokesperson said that the decision to provide tablets to boys and girls studying in classes VIII to XII of Government schools belonging to all categories including general category, scheduled castes, backward classes as well as minority communities so that they can take advantage of digital education is under consideration of the Haryana Government.

The spokesperson said that tablets will be distributed on the lines of the library scheme under which the tablets will be the property of government and will be issued to the students, which they will have to return after passing class XII. The tablets will have different types of pre-loaded content such as tests, videos and other materials as well as digital books, which will be as per the courses of government schools. This will not only facilitate studying different topics at home but students will be able to receive online education and take online exams as well.

Haryana Skill Development and Industrial Training (SDIT) Department has signed two Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) with Medha Learning Foundation to provide best practical training to the trainees and to improve placements for ITI pass outs.

Sharing information in this regard an official spokesperson of the Department said that that the Department has implemented online e-learning system for theoretical topics for all ITI trainees since the COVID-19 lockdown period through the website along with trade wise and unit wise whatsapp groups.

Taking one of its kind initia-

tives in the vocational education system of the country, SDIT has signed a MOU with Medha Learning Foundation.

This initiative will further enhance the online teaching and learning in lTls in Haryana, he added.

Director General, Skill Development & Industry Training Department, Dr. Rakesh Gupta told that under this project, Medha Learning Foundation will install Learning Management System (LMS) without any cost through which lTl instructors can teach the theoretical topics online and conduct weekly and monthly assessments while the on-campus time will be focused on providing best

practical training to the trainees. Medhaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lT team will train the ITI instructors and students on using LMS before rolling out the technology to all ITI campuses. The best part of this LMS is that students will not need 24*7 internet connectivity to access the LMS content, he added.

Divulging more details Dr. Gupta said that in October 2020, the Department had signed MOU with Medha Learning Foundation to improve placement outcomes of the ITI pass outs. Under this MOU, Medha has introduced Meet App through which online placement drives will be conducted for lTl pass outs, he added.

CM resolved grievances on the spot Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

15

Haryana Government is all set to formulate a policy for the division of big plots in the State. The policy will be tabled in the next Cabinet meeting. In this, a provision is being made that every part must have an area of at least 100 yards after partition.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal made this announcement while presiding over the meeting of District Public Relations and Grievances Committees held in Gurugram. Total of 10 complaints or grievances were placed in the meeting and were resolved on the spot by the Chief Minister.

During the meeting a problem regarding a Town Planning scheme which was formulated in the year 196667 was highlighted. It was informed that at that time, the colony which came under that scheme also included the plot size. Map of the plot which used to be divided was not passed.

Two complainants from Shivaji Nagar in Gurugram raised the matter with the Chief Minister, in which the complainants said that their grandfather had built a house on the 153-

square-plot plot in the year 1971, which was later transferred to both the brothers.

Since the house was old, and when they had applied for map passing to reconstruct the house in their area Municipal Corporation, then their request for passing the map was declined citing that old rule. While addressing this problem, the Chief Minister said that for such cases, the State Government has almost formulated the policy, which will be tabled in the next Cabinet meeting.

The Chief Minister, while

resolving the complaint regarding continuation of the construction work in the new colony of Gurugram, even after had been sealed by the Municipal Corporation due to violation of the rules, Manohar Lal ordered to register an FIR and said that the illegal construction which has been done should be removed as per the demolition order given by the Municipal Corporation.

While responding to media queries, the Chief Minister said that similar action will be taken on the complaints re-

order to protect themselves from getting infected. After being infected people have to undergo treatment for which the State Government has made adequate arrangements in the state.

During the meeting the

Chief Minister once again called upon the people of the state to wear masks properly, wash hands with soap repeatedly and maintain a distance of at least two yards from others.

The Chief Minister said that we all have the obligation to protect ourselves from this disease. He said that everyone should take care of themselves and also create awareness about this among their families and acquaintances.

Corona Warriors will get vaccine first

Haryana Chief Minister, Manohar Lal said that the third stage of vaccine trial for COVID-19 is underway and the first to be administered the vaccine will be those Corona Warriors who have been fighting on the frontlines.

The Chief Minister said this while interacting with media persons during a meeting of the District Public Relations and Grievances Committee held in Gurugram.

Manohar Lal said that every person needs to be careful in

Govt. is committed to buy every single grain: CM Haryana Chief Minister, Manohar Lal assured the millet growing farmers of the state that the State Government is committed to buy every a single grain of their millet crop.

He said that the Deputy Commissioner will make adequate procurement arrangements only after conducting a survey of millet sown by the millet producing farmers of their respective districts and further verifying the findings.

The Chief Minister said this while interacting with the media persons after presiding over the meeting of District Public Relations and Grievances Committee held in Gurugram.

The Chief Minister informed that millet is being purchased at the rate of Rs. 2150 per quintal in the grain markets of Haryana, while in the neighbouring state of Rajasthan, millet

is being sold very cheap at the rate of Rs. 1300. That is why complaints about millet procurement from these states being sold in the State Mandis in the name of farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of Haryana are being received.

Manohar Lal said that the procurement millet coming from the neighbouring state will not be allowed in the Mandis of Haryana, but the State Government is committed to procure the millet of Haryana farmers. Farmers need not worry about this, he said.

The Chief Minister informed that in Haryana, last year, 3 lakh metric tonnes of millet was procured by government agencies.

So far, 7 lakh metric tonnes of millet have already been procured. He said that earlier farmers used to keep millet for their home use as well, but this time due to the good price they have sold that stock too.

haryana

ceived regarding continuation of construction work even after sealing.

In the meeting, the Chief Minister ordered the district administration to resolve the problem of getting registration of the plots for those who book the plot in the residen-

tial colony being developed

by M / s Vatika Land Base Private Limited in Sector-83.

He said that those villages which come under Consolidation, registry of the plots of the allottees there should be done by registering a special entry including the colony map as per the Bigha-Biswa.

Raising the issue of HT line creating problem in the same colony, the builder assured the Chief Minister that by the end of January, the said lines would be removed and allottees would be given plots.

The Chief Minister directed the Municipal Corporation to start development works like water, electricity, sewerage, roads etc. in the next one month in Palam Vihar, Gurugram, on the site where the EWS plots have been allotted. The Chief Minister said that the EWS Township should have all the facilities

and it should be ensured that the work is completed by March 31, 2021.

Similarly, the Chief Minister also ordered for recarpeting of the road in front of under construction Bishnoi Bhawan in Sector-31. The Municipal Corporation officers apprised the Chief Minister that a budget of Rs 38.74 lakh has been approved for construction of this road in Sector-31 and in the next two days, tenders will be floated for the same.

While disposing of the complaint raised by the residents of Sare Homes Society in Sector-92 Gurugram, the Chief Minister said that the firefighting system will be installed from Ramprastha Builder's assets . The problem of power supply in this society will also be resolved by giving a separate power connection in the name of RWA.

The windfalls of Freelancing work in India!

Faridabad (NCR) 1-15 December, 2020 www.theasianchronicle.com

career

Bhavna Singh

Nowadays the youth of our country is getting used to the impacts of Covid 19 Pandemic effects. We have smartly changed our working habits to thrive in this post-Covid pandemic world. The youth is now opting for several alternatives of freelancing to generate some extra source of income for themselves and simultaneously managing their studies. I will try to explain other earning opportunities which we call freelancing working opportunities for the Indian youth. So keep on reading to learn some interesting aspects of freelancing working strategy!

What is freelancing and how it is beneficial?

A freelancer can be referred to as a self-employed individual who gives services and working on various jobs for numerous business clients at one time.

While freelancers do take up contracts to work for firms and businesses, they are eventually self-employed. Freelancers are not deemed “employees” by the organizations which they work for, but

No college student is there who wouldn't want to earn some extra pocket money. Money is the biggest source of inspiration for anyone to do anything in this world. Freelancing is one of the promising means you can earn money at the college level, as you can diversify the projects according to your own time and get reasonable pay as well. This also gives you a better niche on your curriculum vitae!

Traits and Qualities required as a Freelancer

relatively they are deemed as “contractors". With freelancing, you have the amenity to work in any location of your choice and comfort which gives you additional time to concentrate on your assigned work by the company and simultaneously managing your studies. Also, there is a lesser amount of hectic involved in freelancing work as usually there is no time constraint on you!

You decide for yourself that what projects are genuinely worth your time and choose those that look fas-

Photo Courtesy: entrepreneur.com

cinating to you and delivers a reasonable pay scale to you. Freelancers work on particular tasks and receive payment or fees for the work they perform during that particular period.

When we talk about the Indian youth who mostly during their college years keep on engaging themselves in certain fruitful activities to upgrade their skills and grasp some deep knowledge of that particular job which they engage themselves with during their college time.

There are tremendous qualities you should acquire to establish yourself up as a freelancer. These significant traits will give you an indication of where you should concentrate on: 1) You should be disciplined enough to handle work pressure.

2) You should be persistent in your decision-making ability.

3) You should be Resilient enough in terms of accepting defeats.

4) Learn to step out of your comfort zones 5) Always learn to appreciate your colleague's success instead of getting jealous and developing animosity for them 6) Be strong in your communica-

16

tion skills.

15 Freelance Skills that will get You employed in 2021

1) Marketing 2) Blockchain 3) Writing & Editing 4) Graphic Design 5) Web Designer 6) Photographer 7) Accountant 8) Customer Service Assistant 9) Excel 10) Virtual Assistant 11) Bookkeeper 12) Sales 13)Carrer coach 14) Caregiver 15) Web developer

Sectors with most freelancing jobs in 2021

1) Computer & IT 2) Accounting & Finance 3) HR & Recruiting 4) Editing, Proofreading, and Writing 5) Administrative 6) Project Management 7) Data Entry 8) Analyst 9) Software Development 10) Technical Support