SPRINGBOARDS and WALKING STICKS

 The article, The world needs blue helmets who act as blue helmets by Hermanprit Singh is about the importance of peacekeeping and the failure of it. In an increasingly complex world marked by escalating conflicts, the words of Holocaust historian Yehuda Bauer ring with profound relevance: "Thou shalt not be a victim, thou shalt not be a perpetrator, but, above all, thou shalt not be a bystander." This principle, when applied to international peacekeeping, challenges us to reconsider the role of the United Nations and its blue helmets in global conflict resolution.  "Blue Helmets" are members of the United Nations Peacekeeping Forces, who are deployed to conflict zones to maintain peace and security, protect civilians, and help rebuild communities. They are recognizable by the distinctive light blue color of their helmets or berets, which symbolizes the UN. The UN's peacekeeping operations, established through Chapter VI and VII of its Charter, were designed to...

 The news report, Secularism is part of Constitution's basic structure; it's unamendable: SC, by Ashish Tripathi underlines that in the grand edifice of India's Constitution, secularism stands as an immutable pillar, woven so deeply into its fabric that it transcends mere amendability. The recent Supreme Court declaration affirming secularism as part of the Constitution's basic structure reflects a profound understanding of India's foundational principles. What makes this judicial pronouncement particularly significant is its timing and context. As the nation grapples with questions of identity and constitutional values, the Court's assertion serves as a powerful reminder of the wisdom embedded in India's constitutional framework. The bench's observation that "secularism" has evolved differently from its Western conception demonstrates India's unique approach to harmonising diversity with unity. The beauty of Indian secularism lies in its i...

 The article, AI’s Cassandra moment , written by Jacob Koshy, reminds us that history has a peculiar way of offering us parallels that serve as powerful lessons for the present. Just as Einstein and Szilárd faced their moment of moral reckoning with nuclear technology in 1939, we stand at a similar crossroads with artificial intelligence. The story of these two moments, separated by nearly a century, reveals humanity's persistent challenge in managing transformative technologies. Geoffrey Hinton's recent actions echo Einstein's historic letter to President Roosevelt. Both scientists, celebrated for their groundbreaking work, felt compelled to sound an alarm about the potential dangers of their field. Hinton's departure from Google to speak freely about AI's risks mirrors Einstein's eventual regret about the atomic age he helped usher in. These parallel stories remind us that scientific progress must be coupled with ethical foresight. Yet, this is not simply a ca...

 The Article, An approaching milestone in constitutional governance , by C. Raj Kumar is about India's journey of 75 years under constitutional governance stands as a testament to the triumph of democratic ideals in the face of immense diversity and challenges. From a nation where life expectancy was merely 32 years at independence to a vibrant democracy with 85.79% voter turnout in recent elections, India's transformation embodies the power of constitutional values to shape a nation's destiny. What makes India's democratic experiment truly remarkable is not just its scale but its soul. Five core constitutional values have woven themselves into the fabric of Indian society: the people's unwavering faith in democratic institutions, peaceful transitions of power, protection of fundamental rights, commitment to federalism, and the vital role of a free media and civil society. Perhaps most inspiring is how India has maintained its unity while celebrating its diversity. ...

 You are at the threshold of a ‘new you’. At a juncture like this, mixed emotions of excitement, anticipation, and maybe even a little bit of nervousness are perfectly normal. Be open to the new—a new you is possible. There have been many National Education Commissions in India, starting from Radhakrishnan Commission in 1948. The Third, perhaps the most popular, education commission was the Kothari Commission in 1964. It was known for 10+2+3 structure, three language formula, scholarships, co-curricular activities, etc. The first sentence of its long report started with the sentence, the destiny of a nation is shaped in her classrooms . India/nation etc. seem very distant and far realities, they seem to be for the politicians and the bureaucrats. Let me slightly rephrase it, the destiny of a person is shaped in her/his classrooms. Classrooms are a place where ideas are generated, character is shaped, connections are formed, and once destiny is written. We enter a classroom, a campu...

 In the tapestry of modern society, an insidious thread still weaves its way through our interactions, expectations, and aspirations. This thread - the permeating patriarchy—has evolved from overt oppression to a more subtle, praise-wrapped form of gender inequality. As we gather around dinner tables and in living rooms, the dynamics described in the article play out in countless homes. Women juggle careers and household responsibilities with seeming effortlessness, while their contributions are both expected and subtly diminished. Men "help" with chores as if it's a favour rather than shared responsibility. These patterns, ingrained over generations, can be hard to recognise, let alone change. However, awareness is the first step toward transformation. By shining a light on these dynamics—the unspoken codes, the gendered expectations, the way we value different forms of contribution—we create an opportunity for change. We can start to question why a woman's interest ...

 The article, In praise of plurinational revolutions by Chandan Gowda, says, in the tapestry of human progress, few threads shine as brightly as those woven by plurinational revolutions. These movements, exemplified by the Indigenous Revolutions in Ecuador and Bolivia, remind us of the transformative power that lies in embracing diversity, plurality and honouring ancestral connections to the land. For centuries, indigenous communities have been marginalised, their voices silenced by colonial powers and economic interests. Yet, as Jeffrey Paige's work illuminates, these communities have not only persevered but have risen to reclaim their rightful place in shaping their nations' futures. The elections of 2002 and 2005 in Ecuador and Bolivia marked a watershed moment, ushering in a new era where indigenous leaders could finally guide their countries' destinies. These plurinational revolutions challenge us to rethink our notions of governance and human rights. They ask us to c...

 The article, Can Countries ‘Undevelop’? by Santosh Desai reminds us that throughout history, civilizations have risen and fallen in a grand cyclical pattern. While we often focus on growth and development, the article raises a provocative question: Can countries "undevelop"? This concept challenges us to think more deeply about the nature of progress and the future that lies ahead. Rather than viewing decline as something to be feared, we can see it as an inherent part of a larger cycle - one that offers opportunities for renewal and reimagination. Just as a forest fire clears the way for new growth, periods of societal change can create space for fresh ideas and approaches to take root. The key is to cultivate resilience and adaptability. Instead of clinging rigidly to outdated systems, we can learn to embrace change and complexity. By acknowledging that decline is possible, we open ourselves to more creative solutions for building sustainable societies. This perspective i...

 Knowing what is wrong and refusing to reject it and change is wickedness. Knowing what is right and truth and refusing embrace and support is wickedness. The people of Nineveh did not argue of resist when they heard they heard Jonah. There is someone greater than Jonah here. The queen of Sheba came from far to listen to the wisdom of Solomon, there is someone greater than Solomon here (Luke 11: 29-32). The people of Nineveh refused what is wrong; and the queen of Sheba embraced what is wise and truthful.   India lost one of its finest industrialist who was a renowned philanthropist, Ratan Tata, on 9 October 2024. As this news and the events proceeding it flashed on the television and on social media, there was another face that was appearing and being highlighted  by many—Shantanu Naidu. They met in 2014, when Shantanu Naidu was just 21; their common interest was love for dogs. Shantanu Naidu, as living and working with Ratan Tata has writte...

 The article, A Nobel for explaining why nations fail by Prashanth Perumal argues that the story of human progress is not written in stone but in the institutions we build. As the 2024 Nobel laureates have shown us, the difference between prosperity and poverty lies not in geography or destiny, but in the fundamental choices societies make about how to organise themselves. Like architects designing a home, our ancestors and current leaders craft the institutions that shelter our collective dreams. Some build inclusive structures, with strong foundations of democracy and private property rights, creating spaces where every citizen can contribute to and benefit from economic growth. Others construct extractive systems that may glitter temporarily but ultimately fail to provide sustainable shelter for their people's aspirations. The beauty of this understanding is its empowering message: nations aren't permanently destined to be rich or poor. The United States transformed from a ...

 In the article, AI in art" Creativity or Conformity? Ritwik Kaikini says that  in the grand theatre of artistic expression, we stand at a fascinating crossroads where human intuition meets artificial intelligence. While some view this intersection with trepidation, perhaps we're witnessing the birth of a new renaissance—one where technology doesn't replace creativity, but amplifies our human capacity for originality. Consider the artist's hand making those first tentative strokes on a blank canvas. Each irregularity, each imperfect line tells a story of human experience, emotion, and the beautiful flaws that make art truly magical. These aren't mistakes to be corrected, but rather the very essence of our creative soul speaking through the medium. The rise of AI in art shouldn't be seen as a threat but as an invitation to evolve. Just as a musician doesn't lose their artistry by using new instruments, AI tools can become extensions of our creative vision. ...

 The article ‘Yield’ can’t be the sole indicator for agriculture by Abhishek Jain and Anjaly John opines the following: For decades, we've measured agricultural success through a single lens—yield. Like a businessman fixated solely on profits while ignoring sustainability, we've chased higher yields at the cost of our future. But just as business has evolved to embrace triple bottom line thinking, it's time for agriculture to undergo a paradigm shift. Imagine a future where we measure farming's success not just by the quantity of food produced, but by the smiles of well-nourished children, the health of our soil, and the preservation of our precious biodiversity. This isn't just an idealistic dream - it's an urgent necessity. When we learn that one-third of our children are stunted and two-thirds are anemic, we realise that maximising yield alone has failed us. The story from Andhra Pradesh shows us a beautiful alternative—farmers growing sugarcane alongside ch...

 The article, Why does this gigantic state fear our hopes, our dreams? by YSR Murthy discusses the case of Professor G N Saibaba, a political dissident and prisoner of conscience in India. Here are the main points: Prof. Saibaba, disabled since childhood, became an activist and academic despite physical challenges. He was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2017 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for alleged Maoist links. In October 2022, the Bombay High Court initially acquitted him, finding no valid sanction under UAPA. However, in March 2024, the High Court re-convicted him on merits. During his decade-long imprisonment, Saibaba faced harsh conditions and health deterioration. Despite this, his writings showed optimism and a refusal to give up on his ideals. The author argues that how the state deals with political dissidents and prisoners of conscience is a test of civilisational strength. As a country we are as weak and groundless as the laws that we hav...

  Mental Health in India's Material World , by Soumyajit Bhar and Kalpita Bhar Paul,  sheds light on a critical issue facing modern society, particularly in India. It highlights how our pursuit of material success often comes at the cost of our mental well-being, but also offers hope for positive change. The article reveals the growing mental health crisis in India, where relentless productivity demands and materialism are leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and a sense of purposelessness. However, it also presents a powerful vision for transformation. At its core, the piece calls for a fundamental shift in how we define success and happiness. Instead of chasing material wealth and status, it encourages us to prioritize deeper, more meaningful aspects of life: Community Connection: By fostering strong social bonds and supportive communities, we can combat isolation and create environments of belonging and purpose. Redefining Success: Moving beyond materialistic ...

 The article, SC steps in to protect journalists , underlines that the recent Supreme Court ruling in India against criminal cases for critical journalism marks a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle to protect press freedom and freedom of expression in the world's largest democracy. This essay examines the current state of journalistic freedom in India, the challenges faced by media professionals, and the implications of the Supreme Court's decision. Freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of democracy, enshrined in Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution. However, as the article highlights, journalists in India have faced numerous obstacles in recent years, including intimidation, harassment, and legal challenges. The use of criminal cases against journalists for their critical reporting has been a particularly concerning trend, potentially stifling free speech and investigative journalism. The Supreme Court's ruling reaffirms that journalists should not...

 The article, Building strong mental reserves , by Naveen Khajanchi prescribes  that in our fast-paced world, mental health is increasingly crucial. The article introduces an innovative approach to maintaining emotional well-being—the "ATM for happiness" concept. This powerful metaphor encourages us to view our mental health as an account we can actively manage and grow. Just as we make regular deposits into a bank account, we can nurture our mental reserves through positive actions, relationships, and mindset shifts. Mindfulness practices, gratitude exercises, and supportive relationships are like deposits that strengthen our emotional resilience. While life's challenges may force withdrawals from our mental reserves, consistent self-care and positive inputs help maintain a healthy emotional balance. This approach can prevent burnout, stress, and poor mental health. Key strategies include: Practicing mindfulness to stay present and reduce anxiety . Cultivating gratitude ...

 The article, A lie and its deleterious effects by T.K. Mishra provides a compelling examination of how dishonesty can profoundly impact our well-being and relationships. While lies may seem harmless or even beneficial in the short term, they often carry a heavy psychological toll that erodes our happiness over time. Lying affects us on multiple levels. Personally, it generates guilt, anxiety, and fear of discovery. The mental effort required to maintain falsehoods creates cognitive dissonance - an uncomfortable state where our actions contradict our values and self-image. This inner conflict chips away at our peace of mind and authenticity. The damage extends beyond the individual. Families and even entire nations can suffer when deceit takes root among their members or leaders. Trust, which forms the foundation of healthy relationships and societies, becomes fractured. Ironically, many lies are told with the intention of preserving happiness or avoiding conflict. However, this sh...

 Sonu was one of the most promising students in that batch of under graduate visual communication students. I say she was promising, not for the results that she achieved, but for her innate talent for things visual, like photography, design, etc., and at the same time had a passion for the same; and was ready to work hard. She hardly finished her first year; I used to find her absent for classes, and I asked her friends about her. They told me she started working. I, presupposing that her family could not afford her education, wanted to ask the college to wave off her fees at least partially. Then I came to know that she has moved out of her family and is working to support herself. I was curious and enquired further, only then did I know that she belonged to a particular Christian sect and their religious beliefs and piety did not permit her to study or pursue careers in media related fields. She had tried getting out of the house and pursue, perhaps she is still not strong enoug...

 There was a holy jealousy among the women of Judea towards Mother Mary. It is different from the ungodly, selfish jealously. They admired and looked up to Mary for giving birth and bringing up a son who exhibits so much kindness and compassion. A woman seeing what Jesus was doing and saying, cries out in holy jealousy, blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that nursed you ( Luke 11: 27-28). Blessed is the mother who gave birth to you and looked after you. It was in some sense the same words of Elizabeth, “Blessed are you among women.” To be blessed is  to be granted special favour by God with joy and prosperity as its result . From God's promise to Abraham that He would bless him and his children, to Mother Mary whom the angel of the Lord called blessed, to the thief on the cross to whom Jesus promised the paradise, all have received special favours from God.    In the New Testament in the light of the Beatitudes, however, the emphasis is more on spirit...

 Jesus was accused by some saying that he drove out demons, or worked mighty works by the power of Beelzebul, the chief of demons (Luke 11: 14-23). Today with the luxury of 2000 and more years of time in which we could witness and experience the indisputable truth and authority of Jesus, the discussions and arguments whether Jesus worked miracles through witchcraft and black magic does not affect us; we can easily leave them behind; for we know the truth. Even levelheaded Non-Christians esteem and respect the divine and benevolent intentions and powers of Jesus. However imagine those days, when the prominent opinion makers of the time accuse Jesus of allying with the devil. It must have confused and startled the faith and religious commitment of the people who had accepted Jesus as their master, and were following him, especially the apostles. This is a repeated challenge in societies to distinguish between truth and falsehood. There are times when the virtuous is misunderstood; an...

 Knowing a prayer, or knowing what to pray, is not enough; one must persevere, endure, and persist in prayer; in other words, one must grow in praying (Luke 11: 5-13). The gospel says, “ask, and you shall receive; seek, and you shall find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” God will never disappoint someone who asks something good, goes after it, and does all in his/her capacity to get it. The passage places in it two stories of relationship; one is between two friends, another is between a father and a son. Friends and parents have many things in common, one, we can approach them as many times as needed, the relationship only grows with it; two, they always wish and give the best for the other. The gospel ends in suggesting, earthly friends and parents are great in giving, if then, how much more our heavenly friend and parent will give us good things. Persistence in prayer is growing in prayer. Persistence at some level is sheer discipline of doing things. Things that see...