By Lakshya Govani
Ladakh is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, characterised by towering mountains, pristine high-altitude lakes such as Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, and its unique cold desert landscapes. Beyond its scenic vistas, Ladakh is also rich in culture and history. The region is home to ancient monasteries like Thiksey and Alchi, and historic landmarks such as the Leh Palace, which reflect its deep-rooted Buddhist heritage and royal legacy.
By Apoorva Dabral
Stretching from the towering Himalayas in the north to the mighty oceans in the south lies a land steeped in ancient history and spiritual significance. Nestled within the Shivalik mountain range, an extension of the Himalayas, is Kanvashram, a world-renowned center of learning and spirituality. This sacred region, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, has been immortalized in the Puranas, Mahabharat, and the literary masterpieces of Kalidas, one of India’s greatest poets and dramatists.
According to the Skanda Purana, Kanvashram is described as a divine stretch “from Nandigiri to the Malini river.” It was here, amidst the tranquil forests and flowing rivers, that the revered Sage Kanva established his ashram, attracting thousands of students who came to acquire knowledge under his guidance. Bowing one’s head in reverence at this site is said to bring peace and spiritual calm.
Kanvashram is also the setting of one of ancient India’s most iconic love stories that of King Dushyant and Shakuntala, the foster daughter of Sage Kanva. Their union, beautifully captured in Kalidas’s famous play Abhigyan Shakuntalam, led to the birth of their son Emperor Bharat (Arsha). It was this great ruler who first united the vast Indian subcontinent into one kingdom, laying the foundation of the Bharatvarsha we know today. Generations before the great war of Mahabharat, Bharat’s rule symbolized strength, unity, and the dawn of a powerful empire.
Located just 14 km from Kotdwar in Uttarakhand, Kanvashram sits on the serene banks of the Malini river, surrounded by dense forests and scenic hills. Believed to be over 5,500 years old, the region is still home to wildlife such as deer, elephants, and tigers. The Kanvashram Deer Park, part of the ashram complex, adds to the area’s charm and ecological richness.
The site spans both sides of the Malini river and is connected by a bridge. The main components of the complex include a temple, the ashram, and the deer park. While the path to the temple is narrow and lined with steps, it rewards visitors with inscriptions and sculptures that narrate the history of the ashram. The temple, although currently abandoned, still holds immense spiritual value.
Unlike many ancient heritage sites, Kanvashram remains active and purposeful. The ashram functions as a residential gurukul for students above the sixth grade. Here, students receive both modern education and traditional instruction in the Vedas and Puranas. Under the disciplined routine of the ashram, students—dressed in yellow dhoti-kurtas—are molded into Acharyas (spiritual teachers).
According to Acharya Manmohan Nautiyal, one of the teachers at the ashram, education is provided completely free of cost. However, students must clear an entrance exam that evaluates their ability to manage the demanding dual curriculum of spiritual and academic learning.
Kanvashram is more than just a historical site—it is a living symbol of India’s cultural, spiritual, and intellectual legacy. From being the birthplace of Emperor Bharat to continuing the ancient gurukul tradition, it stands as a beacon of knowledge and harmony. Surrounded by natural beauty and enriched by thousands of years of history, Kanvashram remains an inspiring destination for pilgrims, scholars, and seekers alike.
We all live in the lap of nature, surrounded by its beauty and mystery. Yet, there are corners of the natural world—remote, rugged, or simply overlooked—that remain beyond the reach of most. These hidden places hold unique treasures, visible only through certain perspectives. Nature photography serves as a window into this unseen realm, revealing its wonders and bringing them to the public eye. To honor this art and its impact, Nature Photography Day is celebrated annually, inspiring both photographers and nature lovers to explore and appreciate the world around us.
Nature photography does more than capture stunning images; it acts as a bridge between the inaccessible and the everyday. From the fleeting dance of a bird in flight to the quiet majesty of a mountain peak, photographers unveil the hidden aspects of the natural world. By showcasing these treasures, they foster a deeper connection to nature, encouraging us to value its diversity and recognize the importance of preserving it. Through their lenses, the unseen becomes seen, and the unheard melodies of the Earth find a visual voice.
Every year on June 15, the world celebrates Nature Photography Day, a tradition that began in 2006 thanks to the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA). This special day has a clear purpose: to raise awareness about nature through the power of photography, to motivate people to step outside and explore, to deepen our appreciation for wildlife, and to emphasize the role of images in conservation efforts. It’s a call to action for photographers and enthusiasts alike to capture and share the beauty of the planet, inspiring others to protect it.
The legacy of nature photography is built on the work of remarkable pioneers. In the United States, Ansel Adams (active in the early 1900s) set a high standard with his iconic black-and-white landscapes of the American West, blending artistry with a passion for nature. In India, M. Krishnan (1912–1996) was a trailblazer, meticulously documenting the country’s wildlife and ecosystems. Today, Indian photographers like Rathika Ramasamy, a noted wildlife photographer, Sudhir Shivaram, an educator and conservationist, and Dibyendu Das continue this tradition, capturing the rich biodiversity of regions like the Himalayas and the Western Ghats.
To support and celebrate this art form, numerous awards have emerged worldwide. Internationally, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year (WPY) competition, organized by the Natural History Museum in London, stands out as a pinnacle of recognition. Other prestigious honors include the Nature’s Best Photography Awards and the Big Picture Natural World Photography Competition. In India, accolades like the Sálim Ali Award for Nature Conservation, Sanctuary Asia Wildlife Photographer Awards, and Nature inFocus Photography Awards shine a spotlight on excellence in nature photography, celebrating the country’s natural heritage.
As we reflect on the power of nature photography, let us hold onto this thought: “The Earth has music for those who listen — and photography lets us hear it visually.” This quote beautifully captures the essence of the craft, transforming the silent symphonies of nature into images that resonate with us all.
In the Vedic scriptures and under Sanatan Dharma, wind, known as Vayu, is revered as a deity, embodying one of the Panchatatva (five elements) essential for life. This sacred force of nature, celebrated for its life-sustaining properties, continues to shape human progress in the modern era. From powering ancient sailboats to driving cutting-edge wind turbines, wind remains a cornerstone of both spiritual and practical realms. Wind Energy Day, observed to raise awareness about this clean, renewable resource, highlights its role in combating climate change, reducing fossil fuel dependency, and fostering sustainable development.
Wind holds profound spiritual importance in Indian traditions. In Pranayama, the yogic practice of breath control, air is harnessed as the life force (prana), promoting physical and mental well-being. In Ayurveda, air corresponds to the Vata dosha, governing movement and energy in the body. Historically, wind powered human endeavors through sailing, navigation, and traditional windmills used for grinding grains and pumping water from wells. These early applications underscore humanity’s long-standing reliance on this elemental force.
Today, wind energy is a cornerstone of renewable energy innovation. Wind turbines convert kinetic energy into electricity, powering homes and industries. Hybrid renewable systems, combining wind and solar energy, enhance efficiency, while wind-powered water pumps support agriculture. Additionally, wind-driven ventilation systems contribute to eco-friendly architecture by enabling passive cooling. These advancements demonstrate wind’s versatility in addressing modern energy needs sustainably.
India ranks among the world’s top producers of wind energy, driven by ambitious policies and innovative initiatives. The National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy (2018) promotes the integrated use of wind and solar resources, while the Repowering Policy (2016) encourages upgrading outdated turbines for greater efficiency. With a target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, wind energy plays a pivotal role. Government incentives, such as Generation-Based Incentives (GBI) offering ₹0.50/unit for power producers, Accelerated Depreciation for tax benefits, and Viability Gap Funding for small-scale projects, have accelerated growth. Additionally, allowing 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route has attracted global investment in India’s renewable energy sector.
Wind Energy Day serves as a reminder of wind’s potential to address pressing global challenges. By raising awareness about its benefits, fostering innovation, and implementing supportive policies, wind energy can reduce carbon footprints, create sustainable jobs, and pave the way for a greener future. As we honor the ancient wisdom of Vayu and embrace modern technology, wind continues to be a powerful force for environmental and economic progress.
Elders are the roots of our families, anchoring us with their wisdom, experience, and guidance. They connect future generations to strong values, weaving a tapestry of tradition and resilience that shapes society. In many cultures, particularly in India, elders are revered and honored as the cornerstone of families, consulted for their insights and cherished for their contributions. However, despite this respect, elders are often perceived as dependent, leading to unintentional neglect or actions that hurt their feelings. This gap between reverence and reality can sometimes result in elder abuse—physical, emotional, financial, or neglectful acts that undermine their dignity. To address this, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), observed annually on June 15, serves as a global call to uphold dedication, love, and respect for the elderly, ensuring their well-being and protection.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was established in 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). The seeds for this initiative were sown earlier during the 1982 First World Assembly on Aging in Vienna, which highlighted the urgent need to protect older adults from abuse. Officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2011 through resolution A/RES/66/127, WEAAD has since evolved into a global movement. It is marked by conferences, awareness campaigns, and community outreach programs that shine a spotlight on elder abuse while promoting elder justice. From local seminars to social media campaigns like #WEAAD2025, the day galvanizes action to ensure older persons live free from harm and with dignity.
While society often holds elders in high esteem, the perception of dependency can lead to unintentional neglect or emotional harm. Elder abuse, affecting an estimated 1 in 6 people aged 60 and older globally, thrives in silence, with only 1 in 24 cases reported due to fear, shame, or reliance on abusers. WEAAD seeks to bridge this gap by fostering awareness and encouraging actions that reflect genuine care and respect. By promoting intergenerational bonding and challenging ageist stereotypes, the day inspires communities to create environments where elders feel valued and secure. The 2025 theme, “Connection Is Protection,” underscores how strong social ties can shield seniors from abuse, emphasizing the power of love and inclusion.
India, with its deep-rooted cultural reverence for elders, has implemented robust policies to ensure their care and protection. The National Policy for Older Persons (1999) aims to secure economic and emotional well-being for seniors, promoting their integration into society. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act (2007) mandates that children and relatives provide financial and emotional support to elderly parents, offering legal recourse for neglect or abuse. This act also supports the establishment of old-age homes and healthcare services, ensuring elders have access to essential care. India’s joint family system, where elders are revered and consulted, counters Western disengagement theories and fosters intergenerational bonding. Recent reports also highlight the need for digital literacy programs to empower seniors, reducing their vulnerability to scams and isolation in an increasingly digital world.
As the saying goes, “A society that cherishes its elders is a society that thrives. Let’s end elder abuse with love and respect.” World Elder Abuse Awareness Day reminds us that protecting our elders is not just a duty but a reflection of our shared humanity. By fostering respect, providing care, and advocating for justice, we honor the roots that ground us and ensure a brighter future for generations to come. Let’s unite on June 15 to raise awareness, challenge neglect, and celebrate the invaluable contributions of our elders with unwavering dedication and love.
Mahesh Kumar, a resident of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, has created history by securing All India Rank 1 in NEET UG 2025, proving that success doesn’t always require coaching from big cities like Kota. Studying in the small town of Sikar, Mahesh achieved an astounding 99.9999547 percentile, surprising medical aspirants across the country. His success has challenged the long-standing belief that one must go to Kota to crack the NEET exam.
For years, Kota has been considered the hub for NEET preparation, attracting students from every corner of India. Many students spend years there, hoping to achieve success. While some make it to the top, many fall short. However, Mahesh Kumar’s journey from a modest coaching setup in Sikar to NEET UG 2025 Topper is a powerful testament to the idea that hard work, dedication, and self-belief are more important than location.
Kota in fact has been in news for all wrong reasons. The unabated students’ suicides, year after year, has raised many questions on the city and coaching centres here. Also, there have been reports coming in of students’ falling ill and eventually, with the passage of time, Sikar has emerged as another option for students who want to prepare for competitive exams.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) declared the NEET UG 2025 results on its official website neet.nta.nic.in, putting an end to the anxious wait of lakhs of candidates. Mahesh Kumar’s exceptional result has brought immense pride to Rajasthan and especially to Hanumangarh, showcasing that talent can shine even from small towns.
Alongside Mahesh, two other students from Rajasthan have secured places in the All India Top-10, taking the total to three students from the state in the elite list. This marks a proud moment for Rajasthan in the field of medical education.
Experts noted that the NEET 2025 exam was tougher compared to previous years, leading to a significant drop in cutoff marks. According to education analyst Dev Sharma, candidates scoring 144 marks out of 720 have been declared qualified for counseling. While these marks are not enough to secure a seat in government medical colleges, they may still be eligible for admission in private institutions.
Compared to 2024, the cutoff for General and EWS categories has declined by 18 marks, while the cutoff for OBC, SC, and ST categories has seen a drop of 14 marks. As per NTA data, 12,36,531 candidates have been declared qualified this year.
This year, NEET UG 2025 will facilitate admissions to approximately 2.40 lakh seats across India. This includes 1.18 lakh MBBS seats, with the remaining for BDS (Dental), AYUSH courses (like BAMS, BUMS, BHMS, BSMS), and B.Sc Nursing. The counseling process will begin soon, with separate procedures for medical, dental, AYUSH, and nursing institutions.
Mahesh’s success is not just a personal victory—it’s an inspiration for thousands of aspirants preparing in non-metro towns. He has shown that with focused effort, discipline, and the right mentorship, even students from small towns can achieve big dreams. His journey is a reminder that Kota is not the only path to success—determination is.
World Gin Day 2025, observed on the second Saturday of June, falls on June 14 this year and celebrates one of the world’s most versatile spirits. What began in 2009 as a small Birmingham gathering has grown into a global festival, showcasing gin’s evolving trends—from innovative mixes and masterclasses to tastings by distillers and connoisseurs. In India, the gin renaissance is in full swing, with local distilleries tapping into the country’s rich botanical bounty—such as Himalayan juniper, tulsi, gondhoraj lemons, and tea leaves—to craft spirits that fuse authenticity, sustainability, and regional pride.
Among the top 10 standout gins available in India, Greater Than, India’s first homegrown London Dry gin, hails from Goa. It’s crafted using nine botanicals—including juniper, coriander, fennel, ginger, and lemongrass—and has become a bartender favorite for its citrus-forward smoothness. Its distillery also produces limited editions like No Sleep (coffee-infused), Juniper Bomb, and Broken Bat (oak-aged), showcasing versatility and innovation.
Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin, another creation of Nao Spirits, brings Himalayan juniper and spices like turmeric into a bold, earthy flavour profile, earning international acclaim as the world’s first Himalayan gin . Terai India Craft Dry Gin, distilled in Rajasthan with tulsi, fennel, coriander, and eleven botanicals sourced from the historic Khari Baoli spice market, offers a floral-spicy complexity and has been dubbed India’s “Gin of the Year” at the Berlin International Spirits Competition 2025.
Bold expressions continue with Broken Bat, an oak-aged, smoky twist infused with orange peel, and Punk Gin, which embraces rebellious botanicals and branding. For coffee fans, No Sleep offers a caffeine-infused gin that blurs lines between a morning pick-me-up and nightcap. Purists will enjoy Juniper Bomb, with a clean, juniper-forward profile reflecting classic London Dry style.
Expanding beyond Indian shores, Roku Select Edition from Japan combines six seasonal botanicals—including yuzu and sakura—to create a refined, balanced spirit that’s perfect for cocktails. A global favorite, Bombay Sapphire, with its vapor-infused distillation and ten botanicals, remains a trusted choice for its smooth, balanced flavor and iconic blue bottle. Lastly, Jin Jiji, a small-batch Indian gin made with Himalayan juniper and tulsi, highlights India’s rich botanical tradition and aromatic heritage.
Together, these 10 gins—Greater Than, Hapusa, Terai, Broken Bat, Punk Gin, No Sleep, Juniper Bomb, Roku Select Edition, Bombay Sapphire, and Jin Jiji—offer something exciting for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned gin connoisseur or a curious newcomer. Raising a G&T, experimenting with craft cocktails, or sampling new flavors, today is perfect to enrich your bar collection or surprise a lover of spirits. Cheers to World Gin Day—and to the vibrant world of gin!
In the small town of Sanchore, Rajasthan, 19-year-old Gopi Kishan Bishnoi has emerged as a beacon of resilience, securing a spot in the Google Summer of Code (GSoC) 2025 with a stipend of ₹2.55 lakh. His selection to work on a fintech web application for the Mifos Initiative marks a remarkable turnaround from a challenging past, proving that setbacks can pave the way for extraordinary success.
cracking the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) for admission to a prestigious engineering college. However, his school years were marred by struggles with mathematics, a subject that felt like an insurmountable barrier. Determined to succeed, Gopi joined the intense coaching ecosystem in Kota, Rajasthan, known for its high-pressure JEE preparation. The grueling schedule and fierce competition took a toll. When his low JEE rank dashed his hopes, Gopi sank into depression, feeling lost and mentally exhausted. Uncertain about his future, he returned home to Sanchore, carrying the weight of disappointment.
Rather than giving up, Gopi chose a fresh start. He enrolled at Polaris School of Technology, a place that offered him a supportive environment to rediscover his potential. Free from the relentless pressure of physics and chemistry, Gopi found his true passion: coding. The school’s nurturing space allowed him to explore programming, experiment with open-source projects, and build a portfolio that showcased his growing skills. What began as a tentative step soon became a full-fledged love for software development.
Gopi’s dedication paid off when he was selected for GSoC 2025, joining 1,220 contributors from 73 countries to work with 195 open-source organizations. His project with the Mifos Initiative, focused on financial inclusion, aligns with his desire to use technology for social good. The ₹2.55 lakh stipend is a significant reward, but the real prize is the opportunity to collaborate with global mentors, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to a project with real-world impact.
Gopi’s story resonates with countless students from small towns who face limited resources and societal pressure to follow conventional paths. His struggles in Kota highlight the mental health challenges of India’s competitive exam culture, while his recovery underscores the power of resilience and self-discovery. Today, Gopi is not just coding—he’s dreaming bigger than ever. He aims to create innovative apps, launch websites, and someday build his own tech company, bringing pride to Sanchore and inspiring others to chase their ambitions.
From the despair of a low JEE rank to the triumph of GSoC, Gopi Kishan Bishnoi’s journey is a testament to the idea that failure is not the end but a detour to a brighter path. As he builds, learns, and grows, his story is just beginning, promising a future where his code could change the world.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirmed on June 14 that the Axiom-4 mission, which includes Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, is scheduled to launch on June 19, 2025. The mission, previously delayed due to a liquid oxygen (LOx) leak in the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle, is now officially cleared for takeoff following successful repairs.
The Ax-4 mission, organized by Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX and NASA, will be the most science-focused mission to date under the Axiom program. It will feature over 60 scientific studies representing 31 countries, including the United States, India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Nigeria.
This international mission will advance scientific research across disciplines such as biotechnology, agriculture, materials science, and human physiology in microgravity conditions aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
With this mission, Shubhanshu Shukla will become the second Indian national astronaut to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission. Shukla will focus on space agriculture, specifically studying how Green gram (moong) and fenugreek (methi) seeds germinate in the absence of gravity. These experiments aim to contribute to future space farming techniques crucial for long-duration space missions and interplanetary colonization.
Originally scheduled for June 11, the mission was postponed due to a liquid oxygen leak found during post-inspection of the Falcon 9 booster. According to SpaceX, teams identified and resolved the issue, and after a series of follow-up coordination meetings with ISRO, NASA, and Axiom Space, the new launch date was set for June 19, pending range availability.
While the launch has been cleared, NASA and Axiom Space continue to monitor pressure levels in the Zvezda Service Module, the primary living quarters for astronauts aboard the ISS. Ensuring safety and environmental stability remains a priority before the Ax-4 crew docks with the station.
Conclusion
The Axiom-4 mission not only marks a significant milestone for India’s human spaceflight program but also underlines the importance of international collaboration in space exploration. As Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to embark on this historic journey, eyes from across the globe will be on the results of his groundbreaking microgravity farming experiments.
The Rudrastra drone, developed by Solar Aerospace and Defence Limited, marks a significant leap in India’s military technology. Recently tested by the Indian Army at the Pokhran range, Rudrastra uniquely blends vertical take‑off and landing (VTOL) capabilities with jet‑like endurance, making it a formidable asset in unmanned aerial warfare.
Designed specifically for battlefield operations, Rudrastra can lift off like a helicopter and transition into high‑speed forward flight, covering vast distances. This dual‑mode flight profile not only enhances its stealth and survivability but also complicates detection by hostile air‑defence systems. Engineered primarily for anti‑personnel missions, Rudrastra delivers precision munitions with minimal collateral damage.
In rigorous trials, Rudrastra demonstrated an impressive operational range of 170 km and a strike radius exceeding 50 km. The drone sustained nearly 90 minutes of flight time, continuously transmitting real‑time video feed to ground stations. Its payload system can deploy low‑altitude detonation munitions, effectively neutralizing entrenched enemy positions and providing critical support during offensive operations.
Rudrastra’s autonomous flight mode allows the Indian Army to conduct deep‑strike missions against enemy artillery batteries, strategic infrastructure, and concealed terrorist hideouts—all without exposing soldiers to direct fire. With programmable flight paths and target‑recognition software, the drone can adapt to evolving battlefield scenarios, reaffirming its role as a stand‑off weapon in India’s defence arsenal.
The successful Rudrastra trials pave the way for large‑scale procurement by the Indian Army, encouraging domestic manufacturers to innovate in the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) sector. As geopolitical tensions rise, India aims to expand its fleet of indigenous hybrid VTOL drones to maintain strategic advantage and self‑reliance in defence technology.
Rudrastra’s induction represents a broader shift toward unmanned aerial systems in military doctrine. These drones enhance battlefield surveillance, precision strike, and force multiplication, enabling the armed forces to respond rapidly to asymmetric threats. By integrating VTOL versatility with long‑range precision, Rudrastra sets a new benchmark for future counter‑terrorism and defence operations.
