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Dance Their Way to a Fitter India

We believe dance-based fitness programmes are the most effective for early childhood development, says Aarti Pandey.

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On a warm summer evening, I stood with a friend and his 4- year-old son to watch as a storm approached from the ocean. As we watched, the wind picked up and palm fronds waved wildly. My friend’s son looked up and asked: What causes wind? The question was not surprising. While “mom” and “dad” are considered the most commonly used words among early learners, any parent can tell you “why” is a close second. Children constantly ask: “Why?” No sooner is one “why” question answered than another is asked. In this sense, children are natural scientists. They begin talking about science and math even before entering preschool (Brenneman et al, 2009), and demonstrate an ability to observe, describe, compare, question, predict, experiment, reflect, and cooperate (Greenfield, 2009). A scientist always begins with a question and then uses observations to develop an answer to the question or a theory. My friend’s son had started with the question.

Child obesity is taking the shape of an epidemic. As per the latest reports, four out of every 10 school-going children in urban India are at a risk of being obese. The latest WHO (World Health Organisation) report projected that by 2025 India will have over 17 million obese children and stand second among 184 countries. Two-third of the children who are obese are most likely to be an obese adult. This is surely very important and critical for all of us to take massive and consistent actions now! We at Folk Fitness are committed to the mission of getting these projections to fail. We have created age appropriate, Indian folk dance-based fitness curriculum for schools called “NANHE” which is delivered by our certified folk fitness professionals. We are recognised by Limca Book of Records as first fitness routine including 122 registered Indian folk dances. Other than our core mission of building a fitter younger generation, our Indian folk-based approach provides us an opportunity to revive the dying art form with Folk musicians and singers creating melodious tracks on which thousands of kids dance their way to fitness.

Movement on Music

We believe dance-based fitness programmes are the most effective for early childhood development. The advantages of a dance based fitness curriculum are

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a) Movement on music is appealing to children, thus its motivational effect to practise

b) It moderates the effects of accumulated stress arising from other school lessons

c) Movement on music has a strong emotional effect, helping children experience many emotions like enthusiasm, joy, euphoria etc.

d) Mirroring the trainer in the class and coordinating the steps with other kids builds socialising, discipline, co-operation and coworking

e) Regular practice also helps children to develop and intensify music abilities like music pitch, rhythm, memory and co-ordination abilities.

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Fitness in Folk “Folk dance on music” is an Indian way to celebrate life. It has functional exercise for every muscle group and every Indian relates to it naturally without any concerns of the lyrics not being appropriate for kids. More than 1000 folk and tribal dances of India provide great variety and flavour. Every folk dance has a story to tell, a reason for their existence and the steps are majorly influenced by their profession and their geographical areas. For example, a Punjabi folk dance will be influenced by the landscape, which is absolutely flat and will involve a lot of jumping and free movement, which makes some of those steps perfect for cardiovascular activity. The Koli dance from Maharashtra would be done to the beats of a beach song as this style is connected to fishermen which involves lot of pulling movements engaging the upper body. The Bihu dance of Assam is done with soft movements engaging the core muscles.

“NANHE” way to Holistic Development The design of the “NANHE” curriculum is such that each 35-minute class is focussed on holistic development of the child. A low intensity programme based on "HIIT" (High Intensity Interval Training) elements enables the children to utilise and channelise their energy in a positive way. The use of smaller muscle groups like fingers and wrists enhances fine motor skills and movements for bigger muscle groups like arms and legs which in turn help in the development of gross motor skills. A repetitive approach increases memory and the variation in choreography helps in agility and strength. Cardio movements are used as energy busters to challenge the heart to reach the THR – Target Heart Rate, this helps highly energetic children to release the energy in a positive way. Each warm up and cool down session includes meditation and the NANHE pledge which helps children to be more relaxed, focused and responsible for their own well-being. The soothing music during cool down and stretching sections have therapeutic values. The routine is accredited by the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, National Academy of Sports Medicine and Fitness and Sports Sciences Association. Children also become more aware of Indian cultural through interesting stories and Folk Fitness animated characters – Sher Singh, Champion Champak and Chotta Chetak. Parents are engaged through weekly home assignments with online content access to practice and celebrate with the child. Children also perform the learnt Folk Fitness routines to demonstrate and celebrate holistic development.

 

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Knowledge

Empowering the next generation: How mentorship shapes the future of young women’s professions

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Mentorship acts as a cornerstone in empowering women across diverse professional landscapes. Studies reveal a strong correlation between mentorship and positive career outcomes for women. Using studies and real-world examples, this article talks about how mentoring shapes women’s career prospects.

Bridging the Gender Gap: The Power of Role Models

According to a 2021 study by McKinsey & Company and Lean In, women who have mentors are more likely to advance in their careers than those who don’t. This emphasizes how important role models are. Through mentorship, mentees are encouraged to believe that “if they can do it, so can I” by seeing successful women in their area. They are thus motivated to go after big dreams and defy society norms that might have initially deterred them.

Breaking Down Barriers: Access to Networks and Resources

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Mentorship transcends mere guidance; it unlocks valuable networks and resources. Mentors, often established professionals, can connect their mentees to crucial individuals and opportunities. A 2023 study by the Harvard Business Review found that women with mentors are more likely to be connected to senior leaders and receive critical career advice. These connections open doors to job opportunities, training programs, and industry knowledge, propelling women forward in their careers.

Building Confidence and Skill Development

Mentorship fosters professional development by providing constructive feedback and valuable insights. A research published in the Journal of Career Development also found that mentorship programs significantly increase women’s self-efficacy and confidence in their abilities. Through personalized guidance, mentors equip their mentees with the skills needed to excel in their chosen field. This tailored approach empowers women to navigate challenges, develop critical thinking skills, and become well-rounded professionals.

Real-World Examples: Paving the Way for Success

Mentoring has an impact that goes beyond statistics. Consider the narrative of Meta Platforms’ COO, Sheryl Sandberg. Susan Wojcicki, the former CEO of YouTube, became Sandberg’s mentor. Sandberg acknowledges Wojcicki’s crucial assistance and direction throughout her career. In similar way, former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi has talked about the important influence her mentor Jack Welch had on developing her leadership style and helping her succeed. These illustrations demonstrate how mentoring can significantly alter the career paths of women in leadership roles.

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Investing in the Future: A Collective Responsibility

Mentorship is not a one-sided endeavor. Moreover, It fosters a culture of learning and exchange, benefiting both mentors and mentees. Mentors gain valuable leadership experience, stay updated with industry trends through interactions with mentees, and contribute to building a more inclusive and diverse future within their organizations.

The future of various professions and the empowerment of women hinges on funding mentorship programs. While individuals can actively seek mentorship within their networks or through specialized channels, organizations can design structured programs that pair women with experienced mentors. Every effort, no matter how big or small, helps create a world in which women prosper and realize their full potential in all spheres of the workforce.

To conclude, mentoring serves as a spark for women’s professional empowerment. Through facilitating access to resources, networks, and positive role models as well as skill development, mentoring sets the stage for a day when women may successfully traverse a variety of professions and realize their full potential. Together, we can actively seek guidance and engage in mentorship programs to help establish a better future for women in the workforce.

Authored by:

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Dr. Kalpana Gangaramani
Founder & Managing Director,
Target Publications Pvt. Ltd.

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Education

National Safety Day: The Importance of Teaching Good Touch and Bad Touch in Schools

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Teacher teaching good touch and bad touch to children using colourful graphs
The image is generated using AI

In the light of National Safety Day observed on the 4th of March each year, there’s a crucial aspect of safety that demands our attention—not just physical safety but the safety of our personal boundaries. This calls for an essential conversation about teaching children the concept of good touch and bad touch in schools, a topic that extends beyond the basics of traffic and environmental safety to the core of personal security and dignity.

Why, you might ask, is it vital to introduce this topic in the educational ecosystem? Simply put, knowledge is power. Educating children on the difference between a ‘good touch’ and a ‘bad touch’ empowers them to understand their rights, recognise inappropriate behaviour, and importantly, speak up. In an era where the safety of children should be paramount, this education acts as a shield, protecting their innocence and integrity.

But the conversation doesn’t stop with the children. It extends to the educators themselves. In the process of enlightening the young minds about safety, it’s equally critical for teachers to undergo training on the same subject. This dual approach serves a twofold purpose: a) it equips teachers to handle disclosures of inappropriate touch with sensitivity and the seriousness it demands, ensuring the right steps are taken to safeguard the child and b) it makes educators aware of their own actions, ensuring their interactions with students are always appropriate and beyond reproach.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, implemented in India, underscores the importance of such education. The Act provides a legal framework to protect children against offences of sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and pornography while safeguarding the child at every stage of the judicial process. Incorporating awareness about the POCSO Act in school curriculums and teacher training programs reinforces the legal and moral responsibilities we hold towards our children.

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Integrating this education into schools demands sensitivity, age-appropriate language, and a nurturing environment where children feel safe to express their concerns. It’s about building trust, ensuring every child knows they have a voice and that voice will be heard and respected.

For educators, this training should be an integral part of their professional development. Understanding the nuances of child psychology, the impact of their actions, and the legalities of child protection are essential components of their role. This knowledge not only protects the children but also the educators, fostering a safe and respectful learning environment.

Now, over to you, dear readers. Engaging in this dialogue is the first step towards change. Schools must be sanctuaries of learning, not just academically but socially and personally. As parents, educators, and members of the community, it’s our collective responsibility to advocate for and implement this crucial education. Share your thoughts, experiences, and suggestions. How can we, as a society, better protect our children? Your voice matters in shaping a safer future for our youngest citizens.

This conversation is not just necessary; it’s urgent. Let’s not shy away from it. Together, we can create a culture of safety, respect, and understanding, making every day a step towards a safer tomorrow for our children.

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Education

Confronting the Crisis: Addressing Student Suicides in Kota and Beyond

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Addressing the student suicides in Kota and beyond
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In a deeply troubling trend that underscores a crisis in India’s educational system, recent statistics paint a harrowing picture of the mental health challenges faced by students across the country. With reported cases of suicide linked to academic pressure on the rise, the urgency to address this issue has never been more critical. In the early months of 2024 alone, there have been distressing reports from prestigious institutions like IIT Kanpur, IIT Delhi, IIT Roorkee, and IIT BHU, totaling 5 incidents of student suicides.

Kota, often dubbed as India’s coaching capital, has become synonymous with the immense pressure faced by students preparing for competitive exams. The town witnessed an all-time high of 26 student suicides last year, a stark indicator of the unbearable stress these young minds are subjected to. This year, six students in Kota have already succumbed to the pressure, including an 18-year-old JEE aspirant who deemed herself a “loser” for not being able to meet the expectations set by the highly competitive exam.

These incidents are not isolated to Kota or the IITs; they are symptomatic of a larger, systemic issue plaguing educational institutions across India. A 17-year-old intermediate student in Telangana’s Adilabad district, for example, took his own life after being denied entry to an exam for arriving late, a decision that pushed him towards a tragic end.

The narrative emerging from these incidents is clear: the educational system, coupled with societal expectations, is creating an environment where failure is not seen as a part of learning but as an insurmountable setback. This mindset is contributing to a dangerous escalation in the student suicide rate, particularly in coaching hubs like Kota, where the pressure to succeed in exams such as NEET, UPSC, and JEE is immense.

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It is high time that schools, universities, and parents across India recognize the gravity of this issue. The relentless pursuit of academic excellence at the cost of students’ mental health is an unsustainable and harmful practice. Educators and caregivers must foster an environment where failure is acknowledged as a step towards growth and where students are encouraged to explore their passions without the fear of judgment.

Moreover, the implementation of comprehensive mental health programs and the promotion of open conversations about failure and resilience can significantly mitigate the risks associated with academic pressure. It is crucial for educational institutions to partner with mental health professionals to provide students with the support they need to navigate the challenges of their academic journeys.

So what is eventually required of the education sector? the alarming rate of student suicides in India is a call to action for all stakeholders in the educational sector. The tragic losses experienced in places like Kota serve as a stark reminder of the need to reevaluate our approach to education and student well-being. By cultivating an environment that values individuality, encourages exploration, and provides robust support systems, we can work towards a future where the pursuit of knowledge is not marred by the fear of failure but is celebrated as a path to personal and intellectual growth.

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Education

World NGO Day: Including Social Service and Philanthropy in Curriculum

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On World NGO Day, celebrated each 27th of February, we’re reminded of the pivotal role NGOs play in fostering social change and development. It’s an opportune moment to reflect on a critical gap in our education system—integrating social service into school curriculums. While Indian schools commendably cover moral science and discuss the multifaceted challenges of poverty, they often skirt around a crucial lesson: the importance of giving back to society, a principle that acknowledges our inherent privileges.

The privilege of accessing education and enjoying life’s luxuries is not a universal given; it’s a blessing. Recognizing this privilege entails acknowledging our responsibility to contribute positively to society, underscoring the necessity of philanthropy in our educational ethos. However, mere acknowledgment isn’t enough; action is imperative. This is where the collaboration with NGOs becomes invaluable.

Consider the transformative potential of inviting NGOs working in education into our schools. These organizations, such as Pratham, Akshaya Patra, and Teach For India, are not just entities; they are repositories of real-world experiences and agents of change. By partnering with these NGOs, schools can offer students more than theoretical knowledge; they can provide them with hands-on experiences in social service, embedding the value of giving back into the fabric of their education.

Imagine the impact of integrating assignments that require active participation in social causes—organizing donation drives, participating in animal welfare activities, or contributing to environmental conservation efforts. Such initiatives do more than inculcate a sense of responsibility; they foster empathy, cultivate a sense of community, and prepare students to be conscientious citizens.

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The benefits of integrating social service into school curriculums extend beyond moral and ethical development. They equip students with critical life skills—teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and empathy—preparing them for the challenges of the real world. Moreover, these engagements offer tangible experiences of impact, teaching students that their actions can indeed make a difference. For example, organising donation drives and animal welfare camps where students can be the volunteers for a better, bigger cause is a great way to include social services into our curriculum.

The partnership between schools and NGOs can take various forms, from guest lectures and workshops to long-term projects and internships. These collaborations provide a platform for NGOs to raise awareness about their causes and for students to engage with these issues deeply and meaningfully.

By making social service an integral part of the curriculum, we can ensure that education transcends academic achievements to include the development of well-rounded individuals who are aware of their social responsibilities. It’s about creating a culture of giving back, fostering a generation that is not only educated but also empathetic and engaged with the world’s pressing challenges.

So, let’s commit to enriching our educational systems with the values of social service and philanthropy. Let’s embrace the opportunity to partner with NGOs and transform our students into not just scholars but also compassionate contributors to society. In doing so, we pay forward our blessings and take meaningful steps towards building a more equitable and caring world.

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Education

Education or Profit? Bombay High Court Calls for Accessible Learning for All

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In a recent statement that hits home for many, the Bombay High Court pointed out a harsh truth: education, once considered sacred in our culture, has now become something many can hardly afford. The court stressed that it’s the government’s duty to make sure everyone in the country has access to good quality education, highlighting the importance of education in the growth and development of society.

Judges AS Chandurkar and Jitendra Jain shared their thoughts during a case involving a request to open a new college. They mentioned a concern that only letting groups with previous experience in education open new colleges could unfairly keep new players out of the game. This could lead to a few big names controlling the education sector, which isn’t fair to everyone else. Yet, they also acknowledged that experience is important to make sure these new institutions can actually provide good education. While acknowledging the importance of experience in managing educational institutions, the justices called for a more balanced approach. They suggested the establishment of clear, quantifiable parameters for evaluating applications for new colleges, thereby ensuring a fair and competitive educational landscape.

This judicial intervention is a stark reminder of the ongoing transformation of the education sector into an ‘education industry,’ where the pursuit of profit often overshadows the noble mission of disseminating knowledge.

With tuition fees skyrocketing and private coaching centers popping up everywhere, education is becoming more about money and less about learning and growth. It’s a wake-up call for those running educational institutions to remember the real reason they’re in this field – not to make a profit, but to educate and shape future generations.

This scenario demands a reevaluation of our priorities. Education should not be a luxury only a few can afford. It’s a fundamental right that paves the way for a better future for individuals and society as a whole. It’s time for educational institutions to reflect on their purpose and for the government to take action to ensure that quality education is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status. This entails not only regulating fees and ensuring transparency in the functioning of educational institutions but also investing in public education to enhance its quality and reach.

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“Although ‘education’ is a pious in our culture but with change in time it has taken a different colour and has become unaffordable. It is the State’s Constitutional responsibility to ensure quality education reaches all the citizens of this country to achieve the growth and development of humanity”, the court said. 

The Bombay High Court’s remarks are a crucial reminder for us all. It’s a call to action to prevent the commercialization of education from overshadowing its true value and to work towards a system where education is seen not as an industry, but as a vital service that nurtures humanity’s growth and development.

(With inputs from Livelaw.in)

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Inspiration

Hidden Figures: A Film Every Student Should Watch and Why

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In the vast tapestry of cinematic storytelling, few films carry the weight of transforming our understanding of history and the unsung heroes within it quite like “Hidden Figures.” This masterpiece not only unfolds the extraordinary tale of three African-American women who were pivotal to NASA’s success in the space race but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for students across the globe. As the world recently celebrated the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11th February, it is imperative to delve into why “Hidden Figures” is a must-watch for every student.

“Hidden Figures” brings to light the incredible journey of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, portrayed with compelling depth by Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monae, respectively. These brilliant minds overcame the dual hurdles of racial and gender bias to lay the groundwork for John Glenn’s historic orbit around Earth. Their story is not just a chapter of NASA’s triumphs but a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dare to dream big and defy societal constraints.

For students, “Hidden Figures” is much more than a history lesson; it is an exploration of the values of perseverance, integrity, and teamwork. The film adeptly captures the essence of these values, showing that success is not the reserve of a privileged few but achievable by anyone with the talent and determination, regardless of their background. This is the story of three strong women who are independent, making a way of their own in a time where people do not even believe that NASA hires women and that too women of colour. When they ask for what they deserve, they are frowned upon and rejected. They are expected to know what their place is and what is the way to look like a white person. Still, these women thrive. Today, the situation has improved for better but our students should understand what it took for the trailblazers and women like these three to bring the world where it is today.

The narrative rhythm of “Hidden Figures” mirrors that of an underdog story, making it relatable and engaging for a younger audience. It offers a linear and steady progression, showcasing the personal and professional challenges these women faced, their initial setbacks, and their ultimate triumph. Furthermore, the film’s emphasis on education and intellectual prowess as tools for breaking barriers is a critical takeaway for students. It highlights the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and the role it plays in shaping the future. “Hidden Figures” demonstrates that knowledge and skill are powerful agents of change, encouraging students to pursue their interests in these fields with zeal.

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The film does not shy away from the harsh realities of the era it depicts but chooses to focus on the triumph of intellect and determination over discrimination and adversity. This balanced storytelling approach makes “Hidden Figures” an educational tool that transcends the classroom, imparting lessons of equality, respect, and the pursuit of excellence.

Hidden Figures is more than just a film; it is a catalyst for change, inspiring students to recognize and challenge the societal limitations placed upon them. It encourages a deeper appreciation for the contributions of women and minorities in science and technology, urging a more inclusive recognition of achievement in these fields. For these reasons and more, it is a film that every student should watch, serving as a reminder that history is made by those who dare to believe in the possibility of the impossible.

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Education

Empowering the Future: The Success of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao in Girls’ Education

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As we commemorate National Girl Child Day and International Day of Education on 24th January, we celebrate the profound impact of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, an initiative that resonates deeply with ScooNews’ vision of nurturing potential and fostering empowerment. Launched by the Government of India in 2015, this campaign represents a significant stride towards dismantling the societal barriers that hinder the progress of girls and women in our nation.

Spanning 640 districts, the campaign’s influence is evident in the marked improvement in the Child Sex Ratio (CSR), which rose from 918 in 2014-15 to 934 in 2019-20 in the focus districts. This positive trend reflects a societal shift away from the discriminatory practices of sex-selective abortions and towards a future where every girl child is valued.

Central to the campaign’s success is its emphasis on education as a transformative force. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao has catalyzed an increase in the enrolment and retention of girls in schools, thanks to a suite of holistic interventions. These include providing scholarships, enhancing educational infrastructure, and introducing innovative learning methodologies. The results are encouraging: the gross enrolment ratio of girls at the secondary level escalated to 81.32 in 2018-19, while the dropout rate decreased to 14.53, showcasing the campaign’s tangible impact on girls’ education.

Moreover, the campaign has ignited a nationwide discourse on gender equality, challenging deep-rooted biases and advocating for a society that respects and upholds the rights and dignity of girls and women. Through various platforms, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao has sensitized communities, engaged stakeholders, and celebrated the achievements and potential of girls and women.

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However, the journey towards gender parity is not devoid of challenges. Deep-seated social norms and attitudes continue to undermine the status of girls and women, necessitating a persistent, multifaceted approach to drive change.

  • Amplifying resources and ensuring the integration of the campaign with other governmental initiatives will provide a robust financial foundation and a unified direction for these efforts.
  • Additionally, a robust monitoring and evaluation framework is crucial to accurately assess the campaign’s progress and impact. This will not only facilitate transparency and accountability but also provide valuable insights for future policy formulation and implementation.
  • Fostering collaboration among stakeholders is another critical aspect. By strengthening partnerships between government bodies, educational institutions, civil society organizations, and communities, the campaign can harness collective expertise and resources, thereby accelerating progress towards gender equality.
  • At the heart of sustainable change is the empowerment of girls and women. Creating newer platforms where their voices are heard, their rights are acknowledged, and their achievements are celebrated is vital. Engaging and educating families and communities to challenge and transform discriminatory norms will further reinforce this empowerment, paving the way for a society that values and invests in every girl.

As we reflect on the journey of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, it’s evident that the campaign has made significant strides in improving the lives of girls and women in India. The achievements are commendable, yet the road ahead demands continued dedication, innovation, and collaboration. ScooNews proudly stands in solidarity with this transformative campaign, advocating for education and empowerment as the keystones for building a society where every girl, every woman, and every future leader can thrive. As we forge ahead, let’s reaffirm our commitment to nurturing potential, fostering equality, and creating a world where the dreams and aspirations of every girl are realized.

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Education

Can Hindi Become the Next Global Language?

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(Photo credit: Twitter/@IBSIndia1)

As we celebrate “World Hindi Day” today let us understand the vast scope of the Hindi language globally and the respect it deserves.

Hindi is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with about 600 million speakers, including native and second-language users. It is the official language of India, the second most populous country and the fifth largest economy in the world. It is also an official language in Fiji and a recognized minority language in South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. Moreover, Hindi is spoken or understood in many other countries, such as Nepal, Mauritius, Singapore, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, and the United States.

let’s talk about Hindi’s rich history– it’s like the language derived from the core of Hindustan, tracing back to our Sanskrit roots. Imagine it as the dynamic kid in the Indo-Aryan crew of the massive Indo-European language family. Hindi has got some serious flair. It’s not just sticking to its roots; it’s been a major part of the group of prestigious languages like Persian, Arabic, Turkish, Portuguese, English you name it. Yet Hindi has got its distinct style. Awadhi, Bhojpuri, Braj it’s like Hindi’s got a whole wardrobe of linguistic outfits, showcasing the cultural fiesta in India.

When it comes to writing, Hindi leads the Devanagari script. It’s not just a language thing; it’s a script trendsetter, setting the stage for Sanskrit, Marathi, Nepali, and many more. The world has seen many Hindi literary legends. Munshi Premchand whose stories we have all grown up reading. Harivansh Rai Bachchan the poetic genius. These legends aren’t just local stars; they’re global wordsmiths.

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Hindi has great potential to become a global language, as it is the language of a rising power and a vibrant culture. India is a fast-growing economy, with a large and young population, a strong democracy, and a strategic role in regional and international affairs. India is also a major source of culture, innovation, and talent, with a rich heritage of literature, art, music, cinema, and science. Hindi is the medium of expression for many of these domains, and also a bridge for communication among Indians of different linguistic backgrounds.

Therefore, Hindi deserves respect and recognition as a language of global importance. It is not a language that students or teachers should look down upon or neglect, but a language to be proud of and promoted. Hindi can offer many benefits and opportunities to students to become great speakers and learners, such as access to a vast and diverse body of knowledge, a deeper understanding of India and its culture, and a wider network of contacts and collaborations.

Hindi is not a threat or a competitor to other languages, but a partner and a friend. It can coexist and cooperate with other languages, such as English, which is also widely used in India and the world. It can enrich and enhance the linguistic and cultural diversity of the world, and contribute to global dialogue and harmony.

Hindi is a language of the past, the present, and the future. It is a language that connects us to our roots, our identity, and our aspirations. It is a language that can inspire us to learn, to create, and to share. It is a language that can make us global citizens. Hence first and foremost, we as Indians, should start giving Hindi respect through our curriculum in schools. 

 

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Education

Empowering Futures: Nurturing Human Rights Advocates in School

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In the dynamic landscape of the 21st century, where tweets can change destinies and TikToks spark revolutions, the knowledge of human rights is like having a superhero cape – powerful, transformative, and absolutely essential. We’re living in an era where this awareness is both a given and, paradoxically, under threat. As we navigate the rollercoaster of global politics and online trends, the need to arm our youngsters with the understanding of their rights becomes paramount.

India, a land of diverse cultures and stories, is also a party to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). It’s like being part of a global club that says, “Hey, every child deserves certain things, no matter where they are.” And what are these things? Well, let’s dive into the colourful world of children’s rights.

According to the latest report from our National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), we’re receiving more complaints than we’d like, especially in the kid’s department. Child labour, child marriage, sexual abuse, trafficking – it’s like a list of things that should never be associated with childhood. Sure, we’ve made strides in health, education, and social protection, but there’s still some unfinished homework.

Now, don’t get us wrong; we’re not trying to act like the spoilers of the story. Progress is progress, but if there’s a chance for more, why not aim for the stars? This is where our schools come into play.

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Imagine a classroom where kids not only learn about algebra and the periodic table but also about their right to life, survival, and development. A world where they’re aware that education is not just about acing exams but a key to unlocking their potential. In this utopian classroom, children are shielded from harm, their voices are heard, and they actively participate in decisions that shape their lives.

The right to life, survival, and development is the superhero cloak we mentioned earlier. It means every child has the right to live, grow, and become the incredible human they’re destined to be. A bit like saying, “Here’s your life, and here’s a manual on how to make it fantastic.”

Then there’s the right to education. It’s not just about memorizing the capital of every country but understanding that education is their ticket to shaping a future they dream of. And guess what? It should be free and compulsory because, let’s face it, no superhero pays a fee for saving the day.

Protection is another superhero power – the shield that guards against harm. Children have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse, violence, and exploitation. They should be treated with dignity and respect, a bit like how superheroes should be treated in the superhero HQ.

According to the latest report of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India received 55,858 complaints of human rights violations in the financial year 2023-24, out of which 9,795 were related to children. The most common issues were child labour, child marriage, sexual abuse, trafficking, and juvenile justice.

Lastly, the right to participation is like giving our young minds a seat at the Avengers table. They have the right to express their thoughts, be heard, and even participate in decisions that affect them. After all, they’re the future architects of this world.

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So, why this deep dive into children’s rights? Because an educated child is an empowered child. As we teach them maths and science, let’s also teach them about justice, equality, and the power they hold as individuals. Let’s create an army of mini-advocates who not only understand their rights but are ready to stand up for the rights of others.

In the end, it’s not just about educating children; it’s about fostering a generation of changemakers. Because when you empower a child with knowledge, you’re not just shaping their future; you’re sculpting the future of an entire society. Let’s make our schools the breeding ground for not just scholars but for compassionate, informed citizens who understand the power of their voice in making the world a better place.

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Education

Irony of the Idiot Box: How Television made Education Smarter?

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Television, often labelled as the ‘idiot box,’ paradoxically stood as a formidable force that reshaped the educational landscape in India. Its influence, both before and after the internet era, was transformative, leveraging the power of visual and auditory stimulation to enhance learning experiences. This medium, with its broad reach, played a pivotal role in overcoming barriers to education, acting as an inclusive educator that transcended geographical, linguistic, and socio-economic boundaries.

Educational programs address issues ranging from social justice to environmental sustainability, instilling values of democracy, diversity, and tolerance. The medium serves as a conduit for raising awareness and sensitizing viewers to the pressing challenges faced by society. One remarkable example is the vast array of educational programs under the PM e-Vidya initiative, with India boasting the largest number of educational TV channels globally, totaling 280. This initiative underscored television’s potential as a tool for democratizing education, making quality content accessible even in the remotest corners of the country.

Television’s impact on academic performance is substantiated by a study from the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), revealing that watching educational TV programs could improve students’ academic performance by a significant 10 to 15 percent. These findings emphasized the educational value embedded in televised content.

The rural penetration of television, as highlighted by a survey conducted by the Centre for Media Studies (CMS), was striking. More than 80 percent of rural households in India had access to television, and over 60 percent of rural children regularly engaged with educational TV programs. This extensive reach underscored television’s role as a key player in disseminating educational content to a diverse and widespread audience.

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India-specific shows further exemplified television’s prowess as an educational tool. The iconic ‘Mahabharata’ and ‘Ramayan‘ adaptations by BR Chopra and Ramanand Sagar, respectively, not only popularized ancient Indian scriptures but also conveyed enduring values to a vast audience. These epics became cultural touchstones, imparting lessons of duty, loyalty, courage, and morality.

Bharat Ek Khoj,’ a historical series based on Jawaharlal Nehru’s book, offered a panoramic view of India’s history, tracing its evolution from the Indus Valley Civilization to modern times. This show served as an educational journey, enlightening viewers about the diverse and complex tapestry of India’s past.

Shaktimaan,’ a superhero series, did not just entertain but also educated a generation. Through the protagonist’s battles against evil forces, the show imparted knowledge on scientific, social, and environmental topics. It stood as a testament to television’s ability to combine entertainment with education, fostering a sense of responsibility and curiosity among its viewers.

Further enriching the educational spectrum was the show ‘Tarang‘ on Doordarshan, which was instrumental in making learning interactive and engaging. ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati,’ the Indian adaptation of ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,’ not only continues to entertain but also encourages millions to expand their knowledge base through a quiz format. ‘Panchtantra Ki Kahaniyan‘ on DD, with its fables and moral stories, contributed to character-building and ethical understanding. In the realm of science, ‘Khud Bud: Khel Vigyan Ke‘ carved a niche. This show, with its focus on scientific principles and experiments, not only entertained but also educated, nurturing a scientific temperament among its audience.

The vastness of television’s reach, has potentially redefined the landscape of teacher education and, consequently, the quality of education imparted across the country. Television, once labeled an ‘idiot box,’ has proven to be a dynamic educational tool, reaching far beyond its initial moniker. It continues to shape the educational narrative in India, bringing knowledge, inspiration, and social consciousness to millions. As we celebrate the transformation wrought by this medium, it becomes evident that the ‘idiot box’ was anything but foolish—it was a catalyst for intellectual growth and societal progress.

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