Archives May 2024

The University of Manchester celebrates its academic excellence with a rich history spanning nearly two centuries and has thus announced a series of scholarships for Indian students for the September 2024 intake. These scholarships, including the Humanities International Excellence Scholarships and the Global Futures Scholarships, aim to provide support for exceptional Indian students planning to pursue their undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the university.

The scholarships reflect the university’s commitment to fostering global academic talent and promoting cultural diversity, offering a transformative pathway for aspiring scholars to engage with world-class education and research opportunities. Academic merit shall be the basis for evaluation. Any holder of an offer who satisfies the requirements will get a scholarship in the form of a tuition fee reduction.

Renowned for its innovative research, world-class facilities, and commitment to social responsibility, the University of Manchester fosters a diverse community of students and scholars who challenge boundaries and make meaningful impacts across various fields.

Talking about these scholarships, Prof. Angelia Wilson, Associate Dean for Internationalisation for the Faculty of Humanities said, “These scholarships underscore the significant role Indian students play within our diverse global student body and our dedication to India as a strategic academic partner. The University of Manchester, with its longstanding ties to business and education in India, stands as a global institution deeply invested in fostering cross-cultural exchange and academic excellence. We eagerly anticipate welcoming the forthcoming cohort of Indian students to our historic campus in Manchester.”

The Scholarships available are as follows:

1. Global Futures Scholarship
The Global Futures Scholarship is available to students worldwide, including those from India. This scholarship reflects Manchester’s commitment to global engagement and innovation. It is available for both Undergraduate and Postgraduate students.

• Undergraduate: The University of Manchester offers international students 100 merit-based scholarships of £21,000.

Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be applying for direct first-year entry in 2024 and have, or be working towards one of the following qualifications: A Levels, IB Diploma, Indian Standard XII (CBSE, ISC, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Gujarat boards only), Advanced Placement (AP).

Timeline: Applicants must apply for the scholarship online by 14 April 2024. All successful applicants will be notified by 30 April 2024.

• Postgraduate: The University of Manchester offers international students 100 merit-based scholarships of £8,000.

Eligibility Criteria: Applicants will be considered for the award based on academic merit and the quality of their scholarship application.

Timeline: Applicants must apply for the scholarship online by 26 April 2024. The link to the application form will be emailed to all offer holders. The successful applications will be notified by 31 May 2024.

2. Humanities Bicentenary Scholarships

The Faculty of Humanities is excited to provide a variety of commemorative Bicentenary scholarships and financial aid options for qualified candidates beginning in September 2024. These awards are limited in quantity and are distributed based on student’s academic performance and the excellence of their program application. No additional application is required; the applications will be automatically reviewed and the selected will be informed.

• • Undergraduate: The University is offering £2,000 per year of study to undergraduate students.
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  Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have completed or waiting for their results for a maximum of 3 years of study. The Scholarships are available to the School of Arts Languages and Culture and the School of Environment, Education, and Development.
  Timeline: All scholarships are applied as a deduction from tuition fees upon registration.
• Undergraduate: The University is offering £2,000 for the first year of study to undergraduate students.
• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be domiciled in India. The Scholarships are available to the Alliance Manchester Business School and the School of Social Sciences.
  Timeline: All scholarships are applied as a deduction from tuition fees upon registration.

• Postgraduate: The University is offering £10,000 for one year of study to postgraduate students.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. No separate application is required – awards are granted on academic merit and strength of personal profile.
2. Available to the School of Arts Languages and Culture, the School of Social Sciences and theSchool of Environment, Education and Development.

Timeline: All awards will be given as tuition fee discounts at the time of registration.

3. Humanities International Excellence Scholarship
The scholarship is specifically designed to support outstanding international students pursuing humanities disciplines at UoM at the postgraduate level.
Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have the offer to study with the university on an approved program with an overall score of 60% – 70% (varies by Indian institution) in their undergraduate studies.

Students interested in these scholarship opportunities are encouraged to visit the respective scholarship web pages for detailed eligibility criteria and application procedures.

Mangalore, 24th May 2024: Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India reaffirms its dedication to road safety with another impactful awareness campaign in the city of Mangalore. On the grounds of St. Aloysius ITI College and MRP ITI College, HMSI achieved one of its milestones where it saw an active participation of more than 1800 college students and staff members. The road safety campaign featured interactive activities such as a safety riding theory session, danger prediction training, road safety quiz, helmet awareness, and Riding Trainer session that kept the participants engaged throughout the campaign.

HMSI believes that the Safety of every individual is a topmost priority. In line with this commitment, HSMI has been actively conducting road safety awareness campaigns across various regions of the country, reaching out to people with vital information and guidance on safe driving practices. Mangalore is the latest stop in this initiative, where HMSI aims to empower the community with essential knowledge and skills to navigate.

HMSI extends its gratitude to the authorities of St. Aloysius ITI College and MRP ITI College for their support in organizing this important initiative. Together, we can make a significant difference in creating safer road environments and reducing incidents of accidents and injuries.

Since its inception, HMSI has imparted education to nearly 4 lakh adults and children in the state of Karnataka, focusing on promoting responsible road usage and cultivating safe riding habits.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India’s CSR Commitment towards Road Safety:

In 2021, Honda globally made a vision statement for the year 2050 where it will strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles. In India, HMSI is working in line with this vision and the Government of India’s direction of reducing fatalities to half by 2030.

One critical aspect of achieving this goal is inculcating a positive mindset towards road safety in our children by the year 2030 and continuing to educate them thereafter. Road safety education at schools and colleges is not only to create awareness but to inculcate a safety culture in young minds and turn them into safety ambassadors. It empowers future generations to become responsible and significantly contribute to a safer society.

HMSI wants to be a company that Society wants to exist and is strongly focusing on Road safety awareness to all sections of society with unique ideas catering to each segment from school kids to corporates and society at large.

HMSI’s set of skilled safety instructors conducts daily programs at our 10 adopted traffic training parks (TTP) across India and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC) to make road safety education accessible to every part of society, and the initiative has impacted over 5.7 million Indian citizens. HMSI’s National Road Safety Awareness program made learning fun yet scientific through:

SCIENTIFICALLY DEVISED LEARNING MODULE: Honda’s skilled instructors set the foundation with theory sessions on road signs & markings, driver’s duties on the road, riding gear & posture explanation and safe riding etiquette.

1. PRACTICAL LEARNING: A special training activity on Honda’s virtual riding simulator was executed for all to experience over 100 possible dangers on road before actual riding.

2. INTERACTIVE SESSION: Participants were given danger prediction training known as Kiken Yosoku Training (KYT) which helps in enhancing rider/driver’s sensitivity to danger and ensures safe driving behaviour on roads.

3. EXISTING DRIVERS HONING RIDING SKILLS: Students & school staff members who are already existing riders tested & honed their riding skills through slow riding activities and riding on narrow planks.

They may drive us crazy, but they are always there to hold our hands during tough times. No matter how many things you argue over, your bond with your little brothers are always the most special. From holding them in your arms for the first time to cheering them on through every success, and everything in between, the love you have for your little ones only continues to grow. This Brother’s Day, celebrate your munchkins who remind you that no matter where life takes you, you’ll always have each other’s backs!

Skoodle Quest Bridge 4

Share an evening of fun-filled banter and endless laughter with the Skoodle Quest Bridge 4. Quest board games provide a unique blend of entertainment, social interaction, strategic thinking, and immersive storytelling, making them an excellent choice for memorable adventures and blissful times with your little monkeys!

Skoodle Marvel Pull-back Hyper Car – Avengers Series

Unleash the superhero hidden away in every little brother by gifting him the Skoodle Marvel Pull-back Hyper Car. Skoodle’s Hyper Car collection is sturdy and designed to withstand drops, vigorous play and constant use. Crafted with the finest non-toxic plastic, it guarantees 100% safety for children. So, whether your brother is setting the stage for epic showdowns or weaving thrilling stories, these small yet powerful Marvel Hyper Car are prepared to tackle any challenge.

Skoodle Quest 100 Games

The Skoodle Quest 100 set includes 5 board double-sided printed games, Nine-men Morris, Racing game, Goose game, Chinese checkers and so many more. The games are packed in a handy easy to carry travel-friendly box, made with premium quality hard cardboard materials, all inside a stunning gold-foil gift box. The set is also said to help with problem-solving skills, develop motor and movement skills, and more.

Skoodle Stackrr Mini Stacking Tumbling Tower Game

Consisting of 39 Precision cut rounded edges of Beachwood Jenga Blocks, the Skoodle Stackrr mini tumbling tower game is the perfect way to spend a skillful yet fun evening. The blocks are made from Beachwood which are of high quality and heavy for proper balancing, Beachwood not only provides a nice heft to the blocks but also provides a smoother surface when compared to blocks made from pinewood, these blocks are given shape with such a precision which not only provides rounded edges and smoother surface to the blocks but also assist in enhancing the playing experience by providing stability to the tower while playing.

Skoodle Nerf Nanofire Blaster

The Nerf Nanofire Blaster has a compact size for stealth and portability. Load 1 dart into the barrel, pull down the priming handle and pull the trigger to fire. The blaster comes with 3 authentic Nerf Elite darts designed for distance and creates the ideal opportunity for a fantastic at-home warzone between you and your little fighter!

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Nagpur, 23rd May 2024 – The Intensivist and Critical Care team of American Oncology Institute (AOI) at Nangia Specialty Hospital in Nagpur successfully treated a 34-year-old male patient who suffered a severe burn injury. The patient arrived at AOI Nagpur with accidental burn injuries affecting his face and torso (chest and abdomen areas), covering a total of 45% of his body surface area (BSA).

Upon admission, he presented with respiratory distress and hypotension, requiring immediate intervention in the isolation ICU. Under the expert care of the medical team, the patient underwent aggressive fluid therapy and pain management, initially responding well. However, his condition later deteriorated, leading to bloodstream infection and septic shock, accompanied by acute kidney injury.

Dr Amol Parate, Intensivist and Critical Care Specialist, AOI Nagpur, commented, “The successful treatment and recovery of this patient highlights the dedication and expertise of our medical team. Burn injuries pose significant risks to patients, including complications such as infections, septic shock, and organ failure. Despite encountering numerous hurdles along the way, our team remained steadfast in our commitment to providing the highest standard of care. Through diligent monitoring and tailored treatment plans, we were able to navigate these challenges and achieve a positive outcome for the patient.”

Dr Hrushikesh Phate, Facility Director, AOI Nangia Specialty Hospital, Nagpur mentioned, “Behind every successful clinical outcome lies the synergy of expertise and empathy, a testament to the collaborative efforts of our medical team. Our medical team, with their expert skills and empathetic approach, navigated the complexities of treatment with precision and care. They provided not only medical intervention but also emotional support, ensuring our patient felt valued and supported throughout their recovery. The successful outcome for this patient exemplifies our steadfast dedication to delivering superior healthcare services and underscores the transformative power of compassion in healing.”

Dr Amit Dhawan, Regional Chief Operating Officer, AOI Central Region, stated, “At AOI, we pride ourselves on our ability to handle even the most challenging medical situations. We are equipped with cutting-edge technology and experienced staff who are trained to manage and treat complications associated with burn injuries. We are committed to delivering exceptional care to our patients.”

In response to culture and sensitivity reports, antibiotics were escalated, leading to improved blood pressure and stabilization of kidney function after a 7-day course of treatment. Throughout his hospitalization, the patient underwent multiple debridement (removal of damaged or dead tissue from a wound) procedures and dressing changes to manage the burn wounds. Despite these challenges, he experienced another setback with the development of septic shock caused by a multidrug-resistant organism. Antibiotics were adjusted to polymyxin therapy, supported by vasopressors, resulting in significant improvement in the patient’s vital signs. After undergoing skin grafting and enduring a two-month hospital stay, the patient was discharged in stable condition, marking a remarkable milestone in his recovery journey.

New Delhi, 23rd  May 2024: The pain of Trigeminal Neuralgia is so intense that it is often called the “suicide disease”, as it can lead one to contemplate suicide.

According to Dr Vivek Loomba, Consultant Pain Physician at the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, New Delhi, “Trigeminal neuralgia, also known as tic douloureux, induces intense facial pain on either side of the face. The pain is nearly constant and so severe that routine tasks such as washing, touching the face, or chewing become challenging.”

When 70-year-old Devi (name changed) from Mizoram and 50-year-old Tania (name changed) from Thailand came to meet Dr. Vivek Loomba, they were having excruciating facial pain. Both of them had stopped eating solid food because of the intense pain. As a result of decreased oral intake, Devi had lost almost 4kg in a month. Both of them were diagnosed with a painful, chronic condition called TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA- THE “SUICIDE DISEASE”.

Throwing light on the treatment of these patients, Dr Vivek Loomba said, “After clinical examination, MRI of the brain was done to look for any intracranial abnormalities. In most cases, MRI is normal, and these patients were no different. They had been taking painkillers and other medications for a long time. So after discussion with patients and their families, we decided to go ahead with the interventional procedure”.

Based on his evaluation, Dr Loomba recommended a trigeminal nerve block for Tania and radiofrequency ablation of the trigeminal nerve for Devi.

For this procedure, a needle is inserted from the affected side of the face until it reaches the specific nerve to be blocked. The procedure is performed under X-ray visualization to ensure accurate needle placement. A local anesthetic and steroid mixture is injected for the nerve block. However, during radiofrequency ablation, small electric impulses are delivered to destroy the sensory nerve fibers, resulting in pain relief. These procedures typically provide effective relief lasting 1 to 1.5 years, and sometimes even longer. If the pain recurs, the procedure can be repeated.

According to Devi, “I was suffering from facial pain for almost 6 months. It made my life terrible because I was barely able to eat, speak to my family or even live a normal life. The pain was so severe and intense that it felt like electric shocks and even painkillers were ineffective”.

Dr. Vivek Loomba further added, “Trigeminal neuralgia can affect individuals of any age, but it occurs more frequently in women aged 50 and above. This condition significantly impacts a patient’s life both physically and mentally. It is also associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders.”

Bollywood star Salman Khan also suffered from this painful facial nerve disorder for almost 7 yrs and underwent treatment in the US. When he opened up about his problem, he mentioned that at one point he himself felt suicidal.

According to Tania, “I came all the way from Thailand to India to meet Dr. Vivek Loomba because I was not getting any relief from the medications I was taking. Due to the pain, I stopped going to the office and interacting with my family and friends. But I am grateful to Dr. Vivek Loomba that he saved my life by treating this chronic pain condition”.

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Janhvi Kapoor, a noted actress, graced Gaur City Mall with her presence to promote her upcoming film, “Mr and Mrs Mahi.” Janhvi Kapoor’s visit sparked a frenzy among eager fans who gathered in large numbers to catch a glimpse of their favorite star.

Gaur City Mall, renowned for its innovative blend of shopping and entertainment, has emerged as Bollywood’s preferred destination for film promotions in the National Capital Region (NCR). The mall’s strategic location and extensive catchment area make it an ideal venue for hosting high-profile events such as this.

“Gaur City Mall has become Bollywood’s preferred destination for film promotions,” remarked Mrs Manju Gaur, Director of Gaurs Group. “Our mall offers more than just shopping; it provides a vibrant platform for entertainment and engagement. We are delighted to host the gorgeous Janhvi Kapoor for her film – Mr & Mrs Mahi based on the cricketing journey of a woman who is encouraged by her husband to play. We have hosted Ranbir Kapoor, Ayushhman Khurana, Kartik Aryan, Ananya Pandey, Kriti Sanon, Arjun Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Ravi Kishen, and others in the past at Gaur City Mall and we look forward to continuing our association with the film industry for such promotions,” she added.

She also shared that Gaur City Mall offers one of the largest atrium in the country and hence can accommodate a lot of fans for such events. During the promotional event, Janhvi Kapoor interacted with the audience, sharing anecdotes from the film’s production and encouraging fans to watch it upon its release. She even shook a leg, graciously signed autographs, posed for selfies, and engaged in light-hearted conversations with her admirers, further enhancing the excitement surrounding the film.

“Mr and Mrs Mahi,” featuring Janhvi Kapoor and Rajkumar Rao is set to hit theaters nationwide on May 31, 2024, the film promises to deliver a captivating cinematic experience to audiences.

Remakes have been the rage, especially in Bollywood, where they’ve been a beloved trend for quite some time. Filmmakers frequently choose hit storylines from regional films to cater to Hindi-speaking audiences. While some remakes stay true to the original, others miss the mark. Recently, adaptations and remakes like ‘Shaitaan’, based on the Gujarati blockbuster ‘Vash’, have been creating buzz. Today, let’s delve into some popular Original Regional Hits that served as inspiration for Bollywood adaptations, stirring up everyone’s curiosity.

Vash – Shaitaan

Vash, available on ShemarooMe, is a gripping Gujarati supernatural horror thriller directed by Krishnadev Yagnik, featuring Hiten Kumar and Janki Bodiwala in pivotal roles. With outstanding performances and eerie visuals, Vash has garnered global acclaim, earning recognition as a standout in Gujarati cinema. Its popularity and quality prompted Bollywood to create the Hindi remake, Shaitaan, starring Ajay Devgn, Jyotika, and Madhavan, now streaming on Netflix. The story revolves around a family’s tranquil trip to their ancestral farm, which takes a terrifying turn when they encounter a mysterious antagonist. As the daughter falls under the antagonist’s spell, a battle between good and evil ensues.

Drishyam – Drishyam

“Drishyam,” available on Disney+ Hotstar, served as the inspiration for its Bollywood remake of the same name. Directed by Jeetu Joseph, the Malayalam version stars Mohanlal, while the Hindi adaptation on Jio Cinema features Ajay Devgn, directed by Nishikant Kamat. Both versions received acclaim for their captivating suspense thriller plot. The story revolves around an ordinary man’s family accused of a crime. He relies on his wits and cinematic knowledge to outsmart the law, unraveling a complex web of investigation. With talented casts and intense storylines, “Drishyam” promises an enthralling cinematic experience, delving into the depths of human nature.

Arjun Reddy – Kabir Singh

“Arjun Reddy,” streaming on Netflix, inspired the Bollywood hit “Kabir Singh,” starring Shahid Kapoor. Both films received acclaim for their intense drama. While “Arjun Reddy,” directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga starred Vijay Deverakonda and Shalini Pandey in pivotal roles, “Kabir Singh,” starred Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani, and mesmerized audiences with raw intensity. The story follows a brilliant yet self-destructive medical student navigating heartbreak and coping mechanisms like anger and substance abuse. Both, Arjun Reddy and Kabir Singh garnered widespread acclaim for its gripping narrative and powerful performances.

Sairat – Dhadak

“Sairat,” a riveting romantic drama on Zee5, inspired the Bollywood remake “Dhadak.” Directed by Nagraj Manjule, “Sairat” delves into the forbidden love story of Parshya and Archie, challenged by caste barriers. This Marathi masterpiece captivated audiences with its powerful narrative. In its Hindi adaptation, “Dhadak,” directed by Shashank Khaitan, the story retained its essence with Ishaan Khattar and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles. “Sairat” broke barriers, making it a must-watch for those craving immersive romance and thought-provoking storytelling.

Mala Aai Vhhaychy! – Mimi

“Mala Aai Vhaychay!” served as the inspiration behind the Kriti Sanon starrer “Mimi.” Directed and written by Samruoddhi Porey, “Mala Aai Vhaychay” stars Urmilla Kanetkar Kothare, Stacy Bee, and Samruoddhi Porey, while the Hindi adaptation “Mimi” stars Kriti Sanon, Pankaj Tripathi, and Sai Tamhankar in pivotal roles. The story deals with the growing surrogacy practices in India, where women are used as surrogates by foreigners. The film is an emotional drama that tells the story of one such surrogate mother who bears a foreigner’s child. With skillful blending of humor, drama, and social commentary, the film depicts a compelling and relatable journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.

Mumbai, 23rd May 2024: In the vibrant streets of Mumbai, a new kind of bawaal (uproar) is brewing—one that melds the gritty rhymes of hip-hop with the savory slices of New York-style pizza. The instigator? None other than Chaitnya Sharma, better known as SlowCheeta, whose latest EP, Scene Mein Bawaal, has captured the city’s imagination. Now, in an unexpected twist, this musical fervor has spilled over into the culinary world with a never-seen-before collaboration with Rocket Man Pizza for a groundbreaking ‘Kar De Kaa?’ menu.

But wait – this isn’t just a collaboration; it’s a cultural dialogue. SlowCheeta’s EP, with its standout track “Kar De Kaa?”, challenges listeners with its raw portrayal of the Indian hip-hop scene’s struggles and triumphs. The phrase “Kar De Kaa?”—a rhetorical query in the dialects of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar meaning “Should I do it?”—echoes the audacity of challenging the impossible. It’s this spirit that Rocket Man Pizza has sought to channel into its new menu.

Each pizza on the limited-edition menu is not just a dish but a narrative, embodying the cheeky, daring ethos of “Kar De Kaa?”. Imagine biting into the ‘Slow Tikka’—a bold concoction of three peppercorn chicken tikka, brie, and truffle oil, or the ’90s Ke Ladke’, which reimagines the Bombay-style mutton keema on a modern pizza canvas. Additionally, the ‘Kar de Kaa?’ pizza itself is a meal to remember—rich butter paneer paired with stuffed pickled chilies, a feta drizzle, and grilled lacha onions, each bite a blend of creamy and spicy notes that echo the audacious spirit of the track. Meanwhile, the ‘Bawaal’ pizza brings the monsoon’s spirit into play, its tandoori achari mushrooms and masala corn cream topped with corn and pickled onions capturing the essence of Mumbai’s beloved rainy season street snack, Bhutta.

SlowCheeta himself sees this collaboration as an extension of his art. “Food and music are universal languages that cross-cultural barriers,” he explains. “This menu isn’t just about flavor; it’s about feeding the spirit of anyone who dares to dream big.”

On the other side of the collaboration, Rocket Man Pizza’s founders, Chef Anand Morwani and Rohan Mangalorkar view this as a continuation of their own story. Starting with Detroit-style pizzas and transitioning to lighter, New York-style sourdough bases, their journey has been anything but conventional. “The ‘Kar De Kaa?’ menu embodies our philosophy of innovation and audacity,” says Morwani. “It’s about pushing boundaries, in both taste and tradition.”

As Mumbai’s foodies and music lovers alike queue up to taste these lyrical dishes, the ‘Kar De Kaa?’ menu serves as a delicious reminder of the city’s ever-evolving cultural landscape. This collaboration isn’t just about adding a new flavor to the menu—it’s about creating a moment in time where music meets meal, where lyrics lace through layers of cheese and sauce, and where every bite tells a story of hustle, harmony, and hope.

To experience this unique blend of flavors and rhythms, order this limited edition menu from Rocket Man Pizza’s website or Swiggy / Zomato from May 24th to June 2nd, 2024. And for those yet to hear it, SlowCheeta’s “Scene Mein Bawaal” is streaming across all major platforms, promising a musical journey as bold and indomitable as the pizzas it inspired.

The ASER 2022 Report noted that the percentage of Class 3 students in both government and private schools who can read the text given to second graders dropped from 27.3% in 2018 to 20.5% in 2022. The last time this proportion was close to this low was in 2012, at 21.5%, making the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic quite evident. Longitudinal surveys have shown the direct correlation between the lack of reading fluency and school dropouts, over the years.

As a response to the alarming situation, and the Foundation’s vision of promoting the art of literature within India, the JCB Literature Foundation, a leading not-for-profit organization, in 2022, started its Qissa Pitara Programme, an initiative to create DIY Libraries to bring the joy of reading to children from marginalized communities across India, fostering literacy, free-thinking, and imagination among children.

The Qissa Pitara Project, launched in August 2022, is gaining momentum across India. With 44 libraries active in states like Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Assam, it’s impacting over 8800 children, with 30,000 books in circulation. Through partnerships with education-focused organizations, the JCB Literature Foundation has created vibrant reading spaces in schools and community centers, promoting literacy and empowering young minds.

Since the Qissa Pitara libraries cater to children who are often first-time readers, dedicated librarians are chosen from the communities and trained to manage the spaces. Currently, 43 librarians across its locations manage the curriculum across the 44 libraries. Through various activities such as read-aloud sessions, storytelling, art and craft activities, and interactive workshops, they encourage children to explore diverse literary genres, express themselves creatively, and develop critical thinking skills.

Each library has a diverse array of books, sourced from leading children’s book publishers from across the country, which vary not only in terms of genres but also languages to account for differing regions, communities and local contexts that the children come from. Therefore, whilst each library is similar in its intent, it is also uniquely different, tailored to address the local needs and issues of the communities they cater to.

Speaking about the project, Manish Tayal, Director, of JCB Literature Foundation, expressed, “In the context of India, where socio-economic disparities often hinder access to even quality education and resources, the provision of literature through DIY Libraries holds profound significance. These libraries transcend mere book distribution by becoming dynamic hubs of intellectual exploration and personal growth for marginalized children.

In a nation where literacy rates and reading levels vary widely across regions and communities, DIY Libraries represent a beacon of hope. Granting access to a diverse array of books and educational materials, especially in languages and mediums that the children understand, ignites the flames of curiosity within young minds, encouraging them to explore, question, and learn. For many children who lack access to traditional libraries, these libraries serve as vital platforms for knowledge acquisition, supplementing formal education and bridging the gap between academic resources and underprivileged communities.

Moreover, the impact of DIY Libraries extends far beyond the acquisition of knowledge. By providing a space where children can freely engage with literature and ideas, these libraries nurture resilience, confidence, and a thirst for learning, equipping young individuals with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges and pursue their aspirations.”

While talking about the impact of this project, Archana, from the Green the Blue Trust, Vadodara, an implementation partner of the project, expressed, “Through engaging in word games, children enhance their vocabulary. They express their creativity freely through drawing, sharing their creations with friends. They eagerly participate in reading activities, finding joy in expanding their knowledge and fostering mental and emotional development.”

Looking ahead, JCB Literature Foundation is committed to expanding the reach of the Qissa Pitara Project, establishing new libraries in existing regions and forging partnerships in states where there is a need for such initiatives. Moreover, the organization plans to focus on programming to conduct regional fairs for children and circulate their stories in newsletters or magazines, celebrating their rich oral storytelling traditions.

Mumbai, 23rd May 2024: For farmers, the monsoon season brings a unique set of operating challenges, even while it may be a welcome sight for some. To guarantee smooth and effective agricultural operations, careful planning is essential, from navigating muddy fields to dealing with unpredictable weather patterns. Here are 5 essentials for farmers to have to get through the monsoon season:

Durable Rubber Boots: During the monsoon months, muddy fields and wet walkways are common. A decent pair of rubber boots will keep your feet dry and protected, allowing you to work comfortably and safely without being bogged down. The Welsafe gumboot boasts a bold design for wet conditions. Anti-slip properties ensure secure footing. soft, flexible PVC upper offers comfort, while the hard PVC sole with metatarsal protection prioritizes safety. Ideal for farmers and construction sites, Welsafe is a trusted choice in Hillson’s essential

A Comprehensive Farm Tool Kit: Unexpected equipment breakdowns can disrupt your entire farming schedule. Having a well-stocked tool kit on hand allows you to address minor repairs quickly and efficiently. This HASTHIP® 10Pcs Gardening Tools is all-in-one set that has everything for basic gardening: shovel, rake, shears, mister, clips & case. Tackle digging, weeding, pruning, & watering with ease! Stainless steel tools resist rust & fit all hand sizes, while lightweight design & comfortable grips enhance efficiency.

A Powerful Flashlight: Shorter days and unpredictable downpours mean working longer hours in low-light conditions. A reliable headlamp becomes an essential third hand. The Eveready Searchlight DL95 offers versatile lighting with a 4W torch & emergency sidelight, featuring torch, auto-flasher, and high/dim sidelight modes. Its super white LED delivers 40,000 Lux for night activities during the monsoon & fast charges in 2.5 hours with charging indicators.

A Durable Raincoat: Maintaining comfort and dryness is essential to ensure productivity during the monsoon season. Invest in a high-quality raincoat that is both breathable and waterproof. Shakumbhari Fab Raincoat Premium in quality and its polyester shields you from downpours. The water-repellent fabric keeps you dry. Overcoat design offers knee-length coverage. Zipper closure & regular fit ensure easy wear.
A Portable Mobile Charger: Communication is vital during the rainy season, especially when coordinating with workers or dealing with emergencies. A portable mobile charger ensures your phone stays powered up, allowing you to stay connected even during power outages or when working in remote areas. The AmbranePowerLit 10000mAh power bank is ultra-slim and offers 22.5W fast charging for most phones. Charge multiple devices with Type-C and USB ports. Super compact & lightweight for easy carrying in pockets or bags. Fully charges in 4.5 hours and offers multiple phone charges on a single go.