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UMMEED: Nurturing Hope for Children’s Well-being

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a world teeming with challenges and uncertainties, UMMEED stands as a symbol of unwavering hope, compassion, and healing for those in need. UMMEED, which beautifully expands to “Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathize, Empower, and Develop,” is an exceptional organization that operates on the core belief that “every child matters.” By focusing on these fundamental principles, UMMEED is redefining the way we approach child well-being, particularly in the context of mental health and development.

Establishing School Wellness Teams

One of the key recommendations put forth by UMMEED is the establishment of School Wellness Teams in all educational institutions. These teams act as the guardians of students’ well-being. They are the first line of defense, tasked with identifying students who may be at risk of self-harm or are displaying warning signs. These compassionate individuals provide essential support and guidance, ensuring that no child feels alone in their struggles.

Promoting Sensitivity and Reducing Stigma

UMMEED places great emphasis on fostering sensitivity and understanding within schools. By creating a nurturing and judgment-free environment, students can be encouraged to express their feelings and concerns openly. Furthermore, UMMEED advocates for the reduction of the stigma surrounding suicidal tendencies and self-harming behaviors. It is only in such an environment that students can feel safe enough to seek help.

Collaboration Between Schools and Parents

To create a safer and more supportive atmosphere for students, UMMEED underscores the importance of collaboration between schools and parents. By working together, these influential entities can identify and address the issues faced by students, both within the school environment and at home.

Fostering Healthy Competition

UMMEED recognizes the detrimental impact of unhealthy competition on students. The incessant comparisons and pitting of students against one another can lead to immense stress and pressure. The organization advocates for a more compassionate and nurturing educational environment that prioritizes individual growth rather than relentless competition.

Immediate Changes for Safer Spaces

In addition to the overarching recommendations, UMMEED suggests several immediate changes that can contribute to safer school environments. These include the practice of locking all empty classrooms to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring there are no dark or isolated areas within the school premises, and maintaining well-kept garden areas. These seemingly small adjustments can play a significant role in creating a safer and more welcoming atmosphere for students.

UMMEED is not merely an organization; it is a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformative change. By adhering to their core principles of understanding, motivating, managing, empathizing, empowering, and developing, they have set in motion a movement that prioritizes the well-being of every child. In a world brimming with challenges, UMMEED serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when hope is nurtured, compassion is ignited, and action is taken.

World Arthritis Day: All you need to know about Arthritis

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Dr. Pramiti Rastogi shares her knowledge on World Arthritis Day..

World Arthritis Day is observed annually on October 12 to raise awareness about rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) that affect the joints, bones and connective tissues. This year’s theme is “Living with an RMD at all stages of life” and focuses on the challenges and opportunities for people with RMDs in different phases of life.

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints that may affect one joint or multiple joints.

Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and decreased range of motion in the affected joints. It can also affect other organs and systems in the body, such as the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.

The two main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in the joints. It usually occurs in older adults and affects the weight-bearing joints, such as the knees, hips, and spine. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the lining of the joints (synovial membrane). It can affect any joint in the body and often occurs in younger adults, especially women.

Factors Causing Arthritis

The exact causes of arthritis are not fully understood, but some factors may increase the risk of developing certain types of arthritis. The factors include: Family history; Increasing age; Gender(Women are more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis and other types of inflammatory arthritis); Obesity; Injury: Infection; Metabolic disorders (Conditions that affect the metabolism of certain substances in the body, such as gout (caused by high levels of uric acid) or pseudogout (caused by calcium pyrophosphate crystals), can cause arthritis); Some diseases that affect other organs or systems in the body, such as psoriasis , lupus, or diabetes can also cause arthritis.

Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis

– The signs and symptoms of arthritis vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. 

– Joint pain: The pain may be constant or intermittent, mild or severe, sharp or dull. It may worsen with movement or activity.

– Joint stiffness: The stiffness may be worse in the morning or after a period of rest. It may limit the range of motion or flexibility of the joint.

– Joint swelling: The swelling may be due to fluid accumulation or inflammation in the joint. It may make the joint feel warm or tender to touch.

– Joint redness: The redness may be due to increased blood flow or infection in the joint. It may make the skin over the joint look flushed or inflamed.

– Joint deformity: The deformity may be due to bone erosion, cartilage loss, or joint damage. It may change the shape or alignment of the joint.

– Other symptoms: Depending on the type of arthritis and its impact on other organs or systems in the body, other symptoms may include fever, fatigue, weight loss, skin rashes, eye problems, lung problems, heart problems, nerve problems, or blood problems.

Treatment of Arthritis

There is no permanent cure for arthritis, but there are various treatments that can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. The treatment options depend on the type and severity of arthritis, as well as the patient’s preferences and goals. These include: Medications like analgesics, corticosteroids, DMARDs, biologic agents, or gout medications ;

Surgical procedures such as arthroscopy, joint replacement, or joint fusion; 

Therapies like exercises, stretches, or massage, occupational therapy, acupuncture, yoga, or tai chi can help to improve joint function, mobility, and strength. 

Preventive Measures for Arthritis

– Arthritis cannot always be prevented, but there are some steps that can help reduce the risk of developing arthritis or delay its onset. These steps include:

Maintaining a healthy weight; Eating a balanced diet: A healthy diet can provide the nutrients and antioxidants that are essential for joint health and function. Foods that have anti-inflammatory properties, such as fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and olive oil, may help reduce inflammation and pain. Foods that have inflammatory properties, such as sugar, refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and processed meats, may worsen inflammation and pain; Exercising regularly; Protecting the joints: Avoiding injuries or infections that can damage the joints is important for preventing arthritis; Managing other conditions: Controlling other diseases that can affect the joints or increase the risk of arthritis is also important for preventing arthritis. 

Arthritis is a common disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause pain and disability and affect the quality of life of those who have it.

World Arthritis Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about arthritis and its impact on individuals and society. It also encourages people to seek early diagnosis and treatment and to adopt healthy lifestyles to prevent or manage arthritis.

By working together with healthcare providers, researchers, policymakers, and support groups, people with arthritis can overcome the challenges and live well with their condition.

IIM Sambalpur Launches First MBA Batch for Working Professionals in Delhi

By
Dimple Arora
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0

IIM Sambalpur, one of India’s premier management institutes, has officially inaugurated its first MBA batch tailored for working professionals in Delhi. This marks a significant achievement for IIM Sambalpur, offering a platform for working professionals and entrepreneurs to pursue their management education while continuing their business pursuits. The program stands out for its focus on Data Science, Product Management, Innovation, and Startups, in addition to core functional areas.

Dr. Alok Kumar Mishra, Joint Secretary of the Association of Indian Universities, emphasized the significance of the credit system introduced in the National Education Policy, which allows students to participate in institutions across the country and abroad.

Shatanik Goswami, Lead Consultant at Google Cloud Consulting, praised Professor Mahadev Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, for the achievement and highlighted the crucial aspects of Product Management, particularly the interconnection of business, interests, and experience within startups.

Professor Rajeev Tandon, former CEO of SC Johnson, discussed “Product Management in the Era of 4.0” and the need for a shift in perspectives on brand and product development.

Deepak Sharma, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of India Accelerator, highlighted innovation-based entrepreneurship, emphasizing the fusion of imaginative thinking with efficient execution.

One of the most inspiring aspects of IIM Sambalpur’s inaugural MBA batch for Working Professionals is Shri G M Gupta, an 80-year-old entrepreneur who passionately shared his enthusiasm for learning. He’s the owner of a startup in the defense sector and believes that the exposure to new technologies, case studies, and unlearning old rules will enable him to manage more effectively.

IIM Sambalpur will host the prestigious “Pan IIM World Management Conference – 2023” from December 21 to 23, 2023, under the theme “Entrepreneurial Innovation and Digital Governance for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth.”

IIM Sambalpur is a premier management institution committed to providing quality education, fostering entrepreneurship, and developing socially responsible leaders. Located in Sambalpur, Odisha, it offers a flagship 2-year MBA program and is renowned for its admissions through CAT. The institute boasts an average package of INR 16.64 LPA, with a maximum package reaching INR 64.61 LPA for the 2023 batch.

This new MBA program aims to equip working professionals with the latest skills and knowledge, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, and fostering an inclusive and sustainable approach to management and leadership.

Ratnaakar Group Joins Hands with Barkville Foundation to Create a Green Oasis for Rescued Animals

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a remarkable display of environmental stewardship, Ratnaakar Group has partnered with the Barkville Foundation to establish a Green Oasis for Rescued Animals. Launched on September 28th, this initiative underscores Ratnaakar Group’s unwavering commitment to providing a safe and nurturing haven for the animals in the care of the Barkville Foundation. The central message of this partnership is crystal clear: “Earth is for All.”

Founders Swati Verma and Hemani Mod of the Barkville Foundation expressed their profound gratitude to Ratnaakar Group and extended their appreciation to the dedicated employees of Ratnaakar who actively participated in a tree plantation drive. Under this extraordinary initiative, a thousand trees of diverse species, including Neem, Drumstick, Billi Patra, Madudo, Champa, and Jasud, were meticulously planted. The designated area underwent thorough preparation, including tilling and pit creation for plantation, and protective fences were installed to safeguard specific plants. Furthermore, a drip irrigation system was implemented to ensure efficient water usage and accelerate the growth of the newly planted trees.

Nishant Shah, Joint Managing Director of Ratnaakar Group, emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “Caring for our planet and its inhabitants is not just a responsibility; it’s our privilege. Through our partnership with the Barkville Foundation, we are nurturing a Green Oasis for Rescued Animals, a sanctuary that embodies the spirit of harmony and coexistence. Together, we are sowing the seeds of compassion and sustainability, ensuring that ‘Earth is for All,’ now and for generations to come.”

Situated on a vast 17,000 square feet of land in Dabhod, Gandhinagar, the Barkville Foundation is on a mission to offer a second chance to our four-legged companions. Their steadfast commitment revolves around providing a safe and caring home for animals in dire need, irrespective of their size or past traumas. Barkville’s vision extends to ending the cycle of abuse and pet overpopulation through rescue operations, investigations, spay/neuter programs, and educational initiatives while fostering lasting bonds between humans and animals through adoption programs.

Initially focused on rescuing and rehabilitating homeless (stray) dogs and animals, the post-COVID landscape brought new challenges, mainly related to abandoned pets. Presently, Barkville provides shelter to 85 abandoned pet dogs, including Labradors, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, St. Bernards, Beagles, Pitbulls, and various mixed breeds. In addition to dogs, the facility houses cows, horses, kittens, bunnies, and numerous birds.

Running a shelter for such a diverse array of animals comes with its share of challenges, with funding being a primary obstacle. The invaluable assistance of volunteers and organizations in various capacities, including fundraising, caring for the shelter’s residents, participating in educational efforts, and promoting adoptions through personal and social media connections, plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges.

Ratnaakar Group, a stalwart in the construction industry for over three decades, is known for creating spaces that fulfill dreams and inspire trust. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, integrity, superior workmanship, timely delivery, and the highest level of professionalism, Ratnaakar Group has garnered the trust of over a thousand satisfied clients and business partners, residing across a remarkable 4.8 million square feet area of residential and commercial spaces.

When Barkville envisioned creating an open and green space for their cherished animal residents, they knew they could trust Ratnaakar Group to partner with them in bringing joy and happiness to their furry friends. The joint endeavor aimed to plant a variety of trees in a designated space on the Barkville campus, complete with a protective fence to create a safe environment for vulnerable animals, allowing them to heal. This heartwarming initiative not only benefits the animals but also underscores the importance of sustainability and compassion for all living creatures.

Largest Hindu Temple Outside India Inaugurated In New Jersey

By
Dimple Arora
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0

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, the largest Hindu temple in the US, opened its doors on Sunday, October 8, in New Jersey, making it the largest Hindu temple outside India in the modern era.

Craftsmanship and Construction

The temple is a testament to remarkable craftsmanship, made from four varieties of marble sourced from Italy and limestone from Bulgaria. These precious materials traveled over 8,000 miles to reach their final destination in New Jersey. Intricately carved pieces were assembled on-site, culminating in the creation of this monumental Hindu temple.

Spanning 126 acres, the temple is a monumental architectural masterpiece achieved through the dedication of artisans and volunteers who invested approximately 4.7 million hours to meticulously hand-carve around two million cubic feet of stone.

Adorned with Historical Figures

Adorning the temple walls are carvings of historical figures, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Abraham Lincoln. The temple’s grandeur has left visitors astounded, with one volunteer describing it as a transportive experience to India.

Collaborative Effort and Unique Features

The Akshardham temple’s construction involved 12,500 volunteers from around the world, working tirelessly since 2011. Notably, it features the largest elliptical stone dome ever built.

Global Landmark

Globally, BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardhams serve as landmarks of Hindu art, architecture, and culture, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. The New Jersey Akshardham marks the third such cultural complex worldwide, following those in Gandhinagar, India (1992), and New Delhi (2005).

Grand Dedication Ceremony

At the inauguration ceremony, Mahant Swami Maharaj conducted the ‘Pran Prathistha’ ritual, surrounded by traditional ceremonies and rituals. India’s Permanent Representative at the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, led a delegation of ambassadors and representatives from the United Nations to the temple ahead of the grand dedication ceremony.

The Akshardham temple in New Jersey stands as a symbol of devotion, dedication, and a testament to the rich Hindu heritage, welcoming people of all backgrounds to experience its grandeur.

Government of India Establishes National Turmeric Board to Boost Industry

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a significant move to promote the turmeric industry, the Government of India has officially notified the establishment of the National Turmeric Board. This newly formed board aims to play a pivotal role in fostering the growth and development of turmeric and its associated products within the country.

The National Turmeric Board will serve as a beacon for all matters concerning turmeric, enhancing collaborative efforts, and fostering closer coordination with existing bodies such as the Spices Board and other government agencies. Its primary focus will be on harnessing the immense potential of turmeric, capitalizing on its health and wellness benefits that have garnered global attention.

The key objectives of the National Turmeric Board encompass:

  1. Increasing Awareness and Consumption: The board will strive to raise awareness and stimulate higher consumption of turmeric both domestically and internationally.
  2. Exploring New International Markets: Efforts will be made to develop new international markets for turmeric exports, contributing to India’s position as the world’s largest producer and exporter of turmeric.
  3. Research and Development: Encouraging research and development to explore innovative turmeric-based products and capitalize on traditional knowledge for creating value-added turmeric products.
  4. Capacity Building: Focus on enhancing the skills and capabilities of turmeric growers, enabling them to gain more value from their produce.
  5. Quality and Food Safety Standards: Promoting adherence to quality and food safety standards, ensuring that turmeric from India maintains its reputation for quality and safety.
  6. Realizing Turmeric’s Full Potential: The board aims to fully harness turmeric’s potential, ensuring that its benefits are utilized for the betterment of humanity.

The activities of the National Turmeric Board are expected to contribute significantly to the well-being and prosperity of turmeric growers by bringing value addition closer to the farms. This approach will enable growers to receive better returns for their produce. Moreover, the board’s emphasis on research, market development, consumption, and value addition will solidify India’s position in global markets as a leading exporter of high-quality turmeric and related products.

The composition of the board includes a Chairperson appointed by the Central Government, representatives from various ministries and departments, state government representatives on a rotation basis, research institutions, farmers, exporters, and a Secretary appointed by the Department of Commerce.

India currently dominates the global turmeric industry as the largest producer, consumer, and exporter. In the 2022-23 season, India cultivated turmeric across 3.24 lakh hectares, yielding over 11.61 lakh tonnes, representing over 75% of global turmeric production. The country boasts over 30 turmeric varieties grown in more than 20 states, with Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu being the top producing states.

With a substantial share of over 62% in global turmeric trade, India exported 1.534 lakh tonnes of turmeric and its products valued at $207.45 million USD in 2022-23. Leading export destinations for Indian turmeric include Bangladesh, the UAE, the USA, and Malaysia.

With the National Turmeric Board’s concerted efforts, it is anticipated that turmeric exports will surge to an impressive $1 billion USD by 2030, cementing India’s position as a global leader in the turmeric industry.

Maharaja Agrasen – The Legendary King who lives for people 

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Priyanshi Pareek reports on Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti..

Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti is a regional public holiday in India, usually observed in Haryana and Punjab, though it may be observed in some years in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. It is observed on the fourth day of Ashwin, the seventh month in the Hindu calendar. 

This holiday is celebrated on the birth anniversary of the legendary Hindu king, Agrasen Maharaj.

This year it will be celebrated on 15th October, 2023.

About Maharaja Agrasen

Prince Agrasen was born on 15th September 3082 BCE to Suryavanshi Maharaja Vallabh of Pratap Nagar (in today’s Rajasthan, India) in the last stage of Dvaapar Yug. 

Maharaja Vallabh named a city on Prince Agrasen’s name as ‘Agra’ (in today’s Uttar Pradesh, India).

Prince Agrasen was very well known for his compassion, who never discriminated against anyone and the subjects were very pleased with the way he conducted himself during his childhood. 

Unfortunately, Maharaja Vallabh was martyrdom during the Mahabharat War. During the martyrdom of Maharaja Vallabh, Prince Agrasen was 15 years old. Being the eldest son, Prince Agrasen was crowned as successor.

When Agrasen became a young man, he attended the Swyamvara of the daughter of the King Nagaraj, Princess Madhavi. The Princess Madhavi selected Prince Agrasen, by putting the garland on him.

Work of Maharaja Agrasen 

Maharaja Agrasen was a doer who conjured prosperity for all. An adherent of Socialism, he devised a unique rule in order to ensure an egalitarian society. 

He promulgated that any person coming to Agroha to settle down permanently, shall be given one rupee, one brick, by each resident of Agroha. With the bricks he could build a house for living and with the money collected he could set up his own business. This way through a small help by each a person could attain an equal status in the society of equals. 

He adopted the ideal of Non-Violence during the 18th Yagna, wherein he realised the futility of animal sacrifices. The Yagna was being performed for the establishment of the 18th Gotra. This realisation led him to become one of the strong protagonists of Non-Violence.

Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara: The Grand Celebration of Tribal Heritage

By
Simran Saini
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0

Nestled deep within the heartland of India, the tranquil village of Medaram, located in Telangana’s Mulugu district, bursts into a riot of colours, sounds, and spiritual fervour during the biennial tribal festival known as Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara. Often referred to as Medaram Jatara, this extraordinary event unfolds in the month of Magha, typically coinciding with Sudha Pournami, the full moon day, which usually graces the second or third week of February. This festival serves as an awe-inspiring showcase of the profound traditions and rich cultural heritage of the Koya tribal people.

The Legend Behind the Name

Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara pays homage to a momentous tribal uprising that unfolded in the 12th century. During a period of devastating drought, the Kakatiya rulers imposed harsh taxes on tribal communities. Leading the charge against this injustice was the formidable mother-daughter duo, Sammakka and Saralamma. Today, millions of pilgrims gather in Medaram to seek the blessings of the warrior goddess Sammakka and her daughter Sarakka during this grand fair.

A Festival of Remarkable Scale

Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara proudly bears the distinction of being the largest tribal religious festival in Asia. Official records from the Telangana government reveal that this three-day extravaganza attracts over 10 million devotees hailing from various Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Jharkhand. The magnitude of this gathering underscores the festival’s profound significance in the hearts and minds of the attendees.

Enriching Rituals and Offerings

Visitors to Medaram during the festival are treated to a spectacle of rituals and offerings. Devotees bring vermilion, jaggery, and sacrificial animals as offerings to the revered goddesses. They sing songs that eulogize the valour of Sammakka and Sarakka, believing that these deities possess the power to infuse courage into their souls. Before presenting their offerings, devotees must purify themselves by taking a dip in Jampanna Vagu, a tributary of the River Godavari, cleansing their souls of sins.

The fields surrounding the Medaram temple sprawl across several acres, and neighbouring villages teem with temporary shelters erected to accommodate the influx of devotees.

Three Days of Devotion

On the first day of Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara, tribal priests ceremoniously retrieve the casket of vermilion, believed to belong to Sarakka, from the forests. The atmosphere resonates with the frenzied beats of drums, the blaring of trumpets, and unceasing chants. Deities representing other Koya warriors are also brought forth on this day.

The second day witnesses the emergence of the principal deity, Sammakka, from Chilakkalagutta. Devotees offer jaggery equivalent to their own weight to the goddess. Other valuable items such as money, saris, bangles, gold, and coconuts find their place on the temple’s altar. Fowls and goats are sacrificed to honour the goddess’s divine presence. On the third and final day, the priests return the deities to their forest abodes, marking the poignant conclusion of the festival.

A River of Significance

One of the most revered aspects of Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara is the ritualistic dip taken by devotees in Jampanna Vagu, a tributary of the River Godavari. This waterway derives its name from the tribal warrior Jampanna, the son of the tribal goddess Sammakka, who met his heroic end while confronting the Kakatiyan Army in this very stream. Local lore attributes the river’s striking red hue to Jampanna’s blood, although scientific analysis attributes the colour to the soil and mineral composition.

Navigating the Journey

Medaram remains a remote destination nestled within the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary, a part of Dandakaranya, the largest surviving forest belt in Mulugu. Accessing this spiritual haven is facilitated by special Medaram Jatara-bound trains departing from Secundrabad Railway Station to Kazipet/Warangal. From there, travellers can catch a Jatara-bound TSRTC bus. TSRTC also provides special bus services from Warangal and Hyderabad to Medaram village, with region-specific queues at Medaram Bus Stand to streamline traffic management.

Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara stands as a resplendent testament to India’s diverse tapestry of traditions and spirituality. It beckons people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the tenacity and valour of its tribal heroes, Sammakka and Sarakka. More than just a festival, it is a testament to the enduring spirit of a people and their unwavering faith in their ancestral deities.

Nobel Peace Prize 2023 Awarded to Narges Mohammadi: Champion of Women’s Rights and Freedom in Iran

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a momentous decision, the Norwegian Nobel Committee has selected Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi as the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for 2023. Mohammadi is being honored for her unwavering dedication to combatting the oppression of women in Iran and her relentless advocacy for human rights and freedom for all.

Mohammadi’s journey towards this prestigious recognition has been marked by immense personal sacrifices. She has faced arrest a staggering 13 times, been convicted on five occasions, and endured sentences totaling 31 years in prison, along with a painful 154 lashes. Remarkably, even as this article is being written, Narges Mohammadi remains imprisoned.

The catalyst for her unwavering commitment to these causes came in September 2022, with the tragic killing of Mahsa Jina Amini, a young Kurdish woman, while in the custody of the Iranian morality police. Amini’s death ignited the largest political demonstrations against Iran’s theocratic regime since its inception in 1979. Under the banner of “Woman – Life – Freedom,” hundreds of thousands of Iranians took to the streets in peaceful protests, denouncing the authorities’ brutal oppression of women. Tragically, the regime responded with a heavy hand, resulting in over 500 demonstrators losing their lives, thousands sustaining injuries, and countless others enduring arrests and detention.

The motto adopted by these brave demonstrators – “Woman – Life – Freedom” – beautifully encapsulates Narges Mohammadi’s life’s work and unwavering commitment:

  1. Woman: Mohammadi champions the cause of women, tirelessly fighting against systematic discrimination and oppression faced by women in Iran.
  2. Life: She advocates for women’s right to live full, dignified lives, a struggle that has been met with persecution, imprisonment, torture, and even death.
  3. Freedom: Her fight extends to freedom of expression and independence, opposing restrictive rules that require women to remain out of sight and cover their bodies. Importantly, these demands for freedom apply not just to women but to the entire population.

Her journey began in the 1990s when she was a young physics student, already distinguishing herself as an advocate for equality and women’s rights. Following her studies, she worked as an engineer and a columnist for reform-minded newspapers. In 2003, she became involved with the Defenders of Human Rights Center in Tehran, an organization founded by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi. Her activism led to her first arrest in 2011, where she was sentenced to years of imprisonment for her efforts to assist incarcerated activists and their families.

After her release on bail, Mohammadi immersed herself in a campaign against the death penalty, an issue deeply entrenched in Iran’s policies. The country consistently ranks among the highest in the world for executing its citizens. In a grim statistic, since January 2022, more than 860 prisoners have faced execution in Iran.

Her relentless activism against the death penalty resulted in her re-arrest in 2015 and further years behind bars. Once back in prison, she took a stand against the regime’s systematic use of torture and sexual violence, particularly against female political prisoners.

In the midst of last year’s wave of protests against the Iranian regime, news of these demonstrations reached political prisoners within the notorious Evin prison in Tehran. From her prison cell, Narges Mohammadi assumed leadership once again. She expressed support for the demonstrators and organized acts of solidarity among her fellow inmates. The prison authorities responded with even stricter conditions, forbidding her from receiving calls and visitors. Nevertheless, she managed to smuggle out an article that was published by The New York Times on the one-year anniversary of Mahsa Jina Amini’s tragic killing. The message was clear: “The more of us they lock up, the stronger we become.” From her captivity, Narges Mohammadi continued to inspire and ensure that the protests did not wane.

In essence, Narges Mohammadi represents not only a courageous advocate for human rights, freedom, and democracy in Iran but also a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity. Her Nobel Peace Prize for 2023 serves to honor her remarkable journey and unwavering commitment. Additionally, it acknowledges the hundreds of thousands of people who, in the preceding year, stood up against the theocratic regime’s oppressive policies, particularly those targeting women.

This award reflects the fundamental belief that equal rights for all are the cornerstone of peace, aligning perfectly with the vision of Alfred Nobel. It continues a long tradition in which the Norwegian Nobel Committee has recognized those who tirelessly work to advance social justice, human rights, and democracy – vital prerequisites for lasting peace.

In a world where the struggle for equality and human rights remains paramount, Narges Mohammadi’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who champion justice and freedom.

General Rules for Flying a Drone in India

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Drones have become increasingly popular in India for various purposes, from recreational flying to commercial applications. However, it’s crucial for drone enthusiasts and operators to understand and adhere to the rules and regulations set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Here, we provide an overview of the essential rules and guidelines for flying drones in India.

Drone Registration and Categories

  • Registration: All drones, except those classified as Nano drones (weighing less than 250 grams), must be registered and issued a Unique Identification Number (UIN).
  • Categories: Drones in India are categorized based on their weight:
  • Nano: Up to 250 grams
  • Micro: 250 grams to 2 kilograms
  • Small: 2 kilograms to 25 kilograms
  • Medium: 25 kilograms to 150 kilograms
  • Large: Over 150 kilograms

Commercial Drone Operations

  • Permit Requirement: Commercial drone operations require a permit, with exceptions for Nano drones operated below 50 feet and Micro drones operated below 200 feet.

Flight Rules

  • Visual Line of Sight: Drone pilots must maintain a direct visual line of sight with their drones at all times during flight.
  • Altitude Limit: Drones should not exceed 400 feet vertically above the ground level.
  • No Fly Zones: Drones are prohibited in specified “No Fly Zones,” which include areas near airports, international borders, Vijay Chowk in Delhi, State Secretariat Complexes in State Capitals, strategic locations, and military installations.

Mandatory Equipment

  • To operate a drone in India (excluding Nano category), drones must have specific features, including:
  • GPS
  • Return-to-Home (RTH) capability
  • Anti-collision light
  • Identification (ID) plate
  • Flight controller with flight data logging capability
  • RF ID and SIM (No Permission No Takeoff – NPNT)

No Permission, No Takeoff Policy

India has implemented a strict “No Permission, No Takeoff” (NPNT) policy for drone flights. Before every flight, drone pilots must request permission through a mobile app, which will process the request and either grant or reject it. If a pilot attempts to fly without obtaining permission from the Digital Sky Platform, the drone simply will not take off.

All drone operators must register their drones and request flight permissions through India’s Digital Sky Platform. Detailed information and access to the platform are available on the DGCA website.

It’s essential for drone enthusiasts and operators in India to be aware of these regulations and comply with them. Staying informed about drone laws and ensuring safe and responsible drone operations will contribute to the safe integration of drones into Indian airspace. Please note that drone regulations in India may change over time, so it’s advisable to keep updated through official sources for any revisions or updates to the rules.

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