Article - Format Of Article Writing

ARTICLE WRITING (120-150 words) FORMAT OF ARTICLE WRITING Heading/Title (Eye catching) ByContent: Your content is the most important as this is the one which highlights your thoughts and perceptions. Paragraph 1: Begin your article with a quotation or popular poetic lines that supports your topic most relevantly. Brief Introduction of the issue or the situation to make it clear to the reader. (Keep this short upto 4-5 lines maximum 6 lines). Paragraph 2: Writing the issue in depth of it (If possible cut this paragraph into 2 as the topics covered in it are more n number)  Causes of it  Types of it (if any, pertaining to the topic)  Consequences  Any other related information. Paragraph 3: Implements on the society, environment, health etc.. Paragraph 4: Conclusion: Highlight your thoughts for prevention, suggest reminders. Tips for writing:      Keep words simple; don't exaggerate using some different terms. Using few words in a sentence, 7-8 words are enough. Write in a flow. Take 2-3 minutes and thing first before you write. Highlight your key points. Your examiner will not read the complete article. Remember the word limit. 1. You are Nidhi, a member of "Environment Club" of your school. Write an article on "Need of Afforestation" in the present-day world. Suggested Value Points: • Modern-age development • Mother Earth for Granted • Reckless cutting of trees for industries and human settlement • Trees are helpful in reducing global warming • Items of use • Plant more trees • Campaigns • Awareness NEED FOR AFFORESTATION By –Nidhi This is the modern age where we have left everything behind in the mad race of development. It has made us take Mother Earth for granted. As a result, man has started cutting trees recklessly to cater to his present requirements. Trees not only provide us with fresh oxygen but also reduce pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. They are also helpful in reducing global warming. It is a matter of great concern that human beings have become so unconcerned towards nature that they are cutting trees in large numbers for settlements, paper, etc. If the present trend of cutting trees is not checked then we will have to face dire consequences. It is, thus, the need of the hour to plant more and more trees. The government should start a large-scale campaign to make people aware about the importance of trees. It is only achievable if we take up the slogan of 'Each One Plant One' more seriously and put our thoughts into action. 2. In recent times there is perceived increase in generation gap between parents and children. Write an article in about 100-120 words. You are Amit. GENERATION GAP BY-Amit The generation gap between parents and children is widening. There are several reasons behind this disturbing phenomenon. The lifestyle and values of children are different from those of their parents. This leads to generation gap. The youth believes in leading a carefree life. They want to seize the moment and enjoy it to the fullest. Late night parties were unheard of in our country a few decades ago. Now they have become the norm. Youngsters want to get the most out of life. Unfortunately, they are pursuing momentary pleasures and seem to have little or no interest in the traditional values that our parents and grandparents held close to them. They even fail to respect the elderly. They assume that they know better and don’t want to listen to the ‘outdated’ advice of their parents. This lack of trust and understanding between parents and children is affecting the very foundation of our families. On the bright side, there are several ways to tackle this issue. Generation gap has always been there and it is quite normal for parents and children to have different opinions. In most cases, a sincere talk over dinner is all it takes to sort out the differences. Parents need to realize that it is normal for their children to have opinions. They acted in the same way when they were younger. They should make a conscious effort to spend more time with their children. Family outings and vacations are great opportunities for bonding. The children should also realize that their parents have more years and experience behind them. India believes in the high value of family. But changes have occurred with the emergence of nuclear families. Write an article for a leading magazine in about 100-200 words on the changes both good and bad, that have resulted from the changes. You are Sunil / Sunitha Family Values Getting Eroded By the Emergence of Nuclear Families By- Sunitha Joint families used to be the hallmark of our famed Indian culture. We believed in loving and sharing. Alas! Times have changed. Joint families have given way to nuclear families. Unfortunately, family values are also dying. We no longer believe in loving or sharing. We are becoming more and more selfish and disrespectful. The elderly are the worst affected by the rise of joint families. In their twilight years, they become a liability for their children and grandchildren. Many of them are now sent to old-age homes where they do not receive the care they need. Those who continue to live with their children and grandchildren are often ridiculed and made to feel unwanted. They spend their last years in misery. Can we permit this? We will also reach their stage within a few decades. Is this what we want to happen to us? If your answer is ‘No’, you must do something to protect your family from disintegrating in this fashion. A few decades ago our families consisted of grandparents, parents, uncles, aunts, children and grandchildren. Everyone felt loved and respected in those days. Compare this with the nuclear families of today that consist of just the parents and one or two children, all glued to their smart phones or gaming consoles. They do not even have time to engage in a hearty conversation. This is certainly an alarming trend – something that can shake the very fundamentals of our hallowed Indian culture. Sensitising children about the importance of protecting family values and staying rooted to their culture is the only way forward. RAGGING – AN EVIL By- Jatin Sachdeva Ragging is a kind of evil which has spread its wings even in educational institutes. It needs to be rooted out as early as possible so that the lives of innocent students, who become victims of it, can be saved. There is hardly any college where cases of ragging are unheard. Some ‘so-called’ senior students consider themselves superior to juniors and give juniors strange and embarrassing situations in order to make fun of them. If not followed, juniors are sometimes maltreated by their seniors to show off in front of others. Ragging has given birth to enmity among students. One, who becomes victim of it, plans to take revenge from the assaulter in any form. Therefore, we usually get to see that youngsters of our country that, they have been short-tempered and often lose their temper even on trifles. Even in some of the cases, victims are so humiliated that they don’t think twice before committing suicide. They not only end their lives but also their as well as their parents’ aspirations. Supreme Court as well as high courts of India have taken this issue with a heavy hand and declared it as a criminal offence. Serious recommendations have been sent to all the colleges and universities to keep a hawk eye on such students who are involved in such malpractices. If any institution fails to comply with the recommendations of Supreme Court of fails to control such practices, their affiliation to UGC may be cancelled or a hefty fine can be imposed on them. We need hardcore laws and officers who can help in eradicating such evils from our society. Besides, it becomes our moral duty not to disturb any student without any rhyme or reason especially in such cases where there is provision of punishment. Parents should also counsel their children and infuse such values in them which make them human not machines. Moreover, mutual understanding between seniors and juniors can also lead to the solution of this problem. SAVE EARTH TODAY TO SURVIVE TOMORROW. -By Ajit 1.Global warming is the big environmental issue we are facing today as a greatest challenge which we need to get it solved permanently. In fact, global warming is the continuous and steady process of increasing in the temperature of earth surface. It needs to be discussed widely by all countries worldwide to stop the effects of it. It has impacted the nature’s balance, biodiversity and climatic conditions of the earth over decades. Green house gases like CO2, methane are the main reasons of increasing the global warming on the earth which directly impacts the rising sea levels, melting ice caps, glaciers, unexpected changing climate which represents life threats on the earth. According to the statistic, it has been estimated that earth temperature has increased to a great level since mid 20th century due to the increased atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations globally because of the increased demand of the human living standard. It has been measured that year like 1983, 1987, 1988, 1989 and 1991 as the warmest six years of the past century. This increasing global warming calls the unexpected disasters on the earth like flood, cyclones, tsunami, drought, landslides, ice melting, lack of food, epidemic diseases, death etc thus causing imbalance to the nature’s phenomenon and indicating end of life existence on this planet. Increasing global warming lead to the more water evaporation from earth into the atmosphere, which in turn become a greenhouse gas and again causes rise in the global warming. Other processes like burning of fossil fuels, use of fertilizers, rise in other gases like CFCs, tropospheric ozone and nitrous oxide are also the reasons of global warming. The ultimate causes of such reasons are the technological advancement, population explosion, increasing demand of industrial expansion, deforestation, priority towards urbanization, etc. We are disturbing the natural processes through the deforestation and use of technological advancement like global carbon cycle, making hole in ozone layer, etc and allowing the UV rays to come on earth thus increasing global warming. Plants are the ultimate source of removing extra carbon dioxide from the air and making it in balance thus by just stopping the deforestation and enhancing people for more plantation we can get success of reducing the global warming to a great level. Controlling the population growth is also a great hand towards reducing the global warming all through the world as it lessens the use of destructive technologies on the earth. 2. GLOBAL WARMING, A MANMADE WARNING! By-Sameer Global warming is the continuous rise in warming of the earth’s surface due to the increased level of carbon dioxide gas in the environment. Global warming has become a big issue which need to be solved by the positive initiation of countries all over the world. As gradual increase in the earth temperature calls various threats as well as makes the existence of life hard on this planet. It enhances the gradual and permanent changes in the earth’s climate and thus affecting the nature’s balance. Rise in the CO2 level on the earth impacts the human life to a great level through continued heat waves, sudden occurrence of strong storms, unpredictable and unexpected cyclone, damage to ozone layer, floods, heavy rain, drought, lack of food, diseases, death etc. It has been researched that increasing emissions of CO2 in the atmosphere is because of the nonstop burning of fossil fuels, usage of fertilizers, cutting forests, extra use of electricity, gases used in refrigerator etc. According to the statistics, it has been noted that by 2020 global warming may boom its bad effects if it is not taken under control as CO2 emissions are increasing continuously. The increasing level of CO2 causes greenhouse effect on the earth in which all the greenhouse gases (water vapour, CO2, methane, ozone) absorbs thermal radiation, which in turn re-radiated to all directions and come back to earth surface causing increase in the temperature of earth surface and lead to global warming. In order to stop the life threatening effects of the global warming, we should take a permanent break from all the bad habits causing increase in the CO2 level and other green house gases leading to the green house effect and then earth surface warming. We should stop deforestation, lessen the use of electricity, stop the burning of wood, etc. SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES – BOON OR BANE? (By: Jatin Sachdeva) Gone are the days when people had to wait for a longer period of time to receive a letter from their kith and kin. Besides, they had to spend a good amount in order to communicate with them. It is 21st century now wherein we have shifted ourselves from superannuated computers to high end mobiles and others gadgets. Now, it is needless to look at our call’s duration while talking to someone abroad or to worry about our monthly bills. In this era of technology, we have the options of making video calls, audio calls and even to chat that is altogether free of cost and within everyone’s reach. All we need is a data pack, and a 3G or 4G enabled phone. On the other hand, we have also seen a steep rise in cybercrimes like cyber bullying, hike in online suicidal cases, & selfie accidents and communal riots because of these sites. Such obnoxious content is getting viral rapidly and reaching every nook and corner and the civilized section of the society. Undoubtedly, these sites are flawless and commonly used, but they too have some demerits. Students keep on adhering to & updating themselves on these sites like Facebook, Whatsapp and many more which results in wastage of lot of time & energy. Their continuous staring at their mobile phones weakens their eye sight and affects their studies as well as their grades and percentage. We should always remember that “Excess of everything is bad” therefore, it becomes our moral duty to use such sites and make the most of it. On the contrary, we should use them for a limited period of time and only when required. So, use them but not misuse. PRESSURE OF BOARD EXAMS By- Rahul Sharma Since many decades, examination process has been a constant source of evaluation of students’ performance in our country wherein they are assessed on the basis of their marks not on their knowledge and reasoning ability. Every year, students have to undergo various tests and board exams which determine their grades, performance & future too in our country. But, in reality, these board exams have aggravated this severe situation instead of softening it. Stress among the students of class X & XII is clearly visible nowadays. From tiresome days to sleepless nights, everything can be seen in these kids’ life irrespective of their innocence and tender age. This stress among students has been increasing day by day resulting in depression and hypertension which can cost them dearly especially at the time of their exams. Even some of them don’t hesitate to commit suicide due to the pressure of not scoring well in their board exams. To combat this stress, every child should plan his study hours and implement it without fail. One should not forget that “Practice makes a man perfect” proverb and adhere to these words till one succeeds. Every student must emphasise on conceptual learning not being a bookworm. During the exams, parents should counsel their students and advise them to do their best instead of being the best in their class. They should be give healthy food to eat & healthy environment to live wherein they can share their dilemmas with their parents without giving second thoughts. With these points, every student can overcome his fear of board exams. Always remember that “Where there is will, there is a way.” WOMEN EMPOWERMENT: WINDS OF CHANGE By-Anita Raj Women empowerment has become the buzzword (catch phrase) today with women working alongside men in all spheres. They profess an independent outlook, whether they are living inside their home or working outside. They are increasingly gaining control over their lives and taking their own decisions with regard to their education, career, profession and lifestyle. With steady increase in the number of working women, they have gained financial independence, which has given them confidence to lead their own lives and build their own identity. They are successfully taking up diverse professions to prove that they are second to none in any respect. But while doing so, women also take care to strike a balance between their commitment to their profession as well as their home and family. They are playing multiple roles of a mother, daughter, sister, wife and a working professional with remarkable harmony and ease. With equal opportunities to work, they are functioning with a spirit of team work to render all possible cooperations to their male counterparts in meeting the deadlines and targets set in their respective professions. Women empowerment is not limited to urban, working women but women in even remote towns and villages are now increasingly making their voices heard loud and clear in society. They are no longer willing to play a second fiddle to their male counterparts. Educated or not, they are asserting their social and political rights and making their presence felt, regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds. While it is true that women, by and large, do not face discrimination in society today, unfortunately, many of them face exploitation and harassment which can be of diverse types: emotional, physical, mental and sexual. They are often subjected to rape, abuse and other forms of physical and intellectual violence. Women empowerment, in the truest sense, will be achieved only when there is attitudinal change in society with regard to womenfolk, treating them with proper respect, dignity, fairness and equality. The rural areas of the country are, by and large, steeped in a feudal and medieval outlook, refusing to grant women equal say in the matters of their education, marriage, dress-code, profession and social interactions. Let us hope, women empowerment spreads to progressive as well as backward areas of our vast country. HEALTH AND FITNESS BY-Sameer Being healthy and fit in simple terms means taking good care of the body. We should remember that a healthy mind resides only in a healthy body. Good health of both mind and body helps one maintain the required energy level to achieve success in life. All of us must strive to achieve wholesome health. Protecting your body from the intake of harmful substances, doing regular exercises, having proper food and sleep are some of the important instances that define a healthy lifestyle. Being fit allows us to perform our activities without being lethargic, restless or tired. A healthy and fit person is capable of living the life to the fullest, without any major medical or physical issues. Being healthy is not only related to the physical well-being of a person, it also involves the mental stability or the internal peace of a person. Generally, a healthy diet consists of taking a proper and healthy food which includes eating green and fresh vegetables, fruits, having milk, eggs, minerals, proteins and vitamins essential for a human’s lifestyle. Practicing Yoga including regular exercises in your daily routine also help you maintain your desired fitness, blood sugar and immunity level. Healthy habits improve your physical appearance, mental stability, ability to perform activities in a better way, which help you lead a stress-free lifestyle, maintaining happy moods, high energy levels, etc. Each individual should take of one’s health on a priority; no single day should be skipped for making efforts on maintaining physical and mental fitness. Being happy is directly related to boosting your mental strength and health, so happiness can be considered as the result as well as the part of a healthy and fit lifestyle. Health is the most important thing that a person should take care of. Leading a healthy lifestyle leads to happiness, success and achievements. Taking help from the information given below and inventing your own ideas, write an article on ‘Books—Our Best Companions’. Hints: • Human relations can be deceptive and unreliable • Books—our best companions • Our friends and guides • Educative as well as informative. Books—Our Best companions —Yashita Man is a social animal. He can’t live in isolation. Our human friends, relatives and companions can prove unreliable and treacherous. They can harm our interests. However, books are our real companions, friends and guides. They enrich humanity. They are a storehouse of knowledge. They have educative as well as informative value and importance. Let us live in the company of books. They will never betray or deceive us. We can look towards them for guidance, learning and entertainment. Shakespeare’s dramas have a universal appeal. Homer, Balmiki and Ved Vyas have given us immortal works. ‘The Ramayana’and ‘The Mahabharat’ are read by millions of people. Keats’ poems are things of beauty that give us joy forever. Tagore’s `Gitanjali’ transports us to a highly spiritual and philosophical world. Prem Chand’s ‘Goclan’ unfolds rustic life and its problems. Books are our best companions. If you are alone, you can take up a book of your choice and taste it and very soon you become a part of it. Books on travels and adventures are not informative but also quite exciting. The biographies of great men like Lincoln and Gandhi can be a source of inspiration. It is never too late to enter the world of books. The sooner you enter, the better it is. Over the years there has been a steady increase in the number of students from different towns and cities of India seeking admission in colleges in the metropolitan cities. As a consequence, colleges in the metros have failed to accommodate the rising number of students due to a severe shortage of seats. Write an article for your school magazine drawing attention to the anxiety and pressure faced by students during admission time. Suggest ways to combat the shortage of seats. You are Mohan/Mohita, a student of A.K. International School, Agra. Shortage of Seats in Colleges —Mohan/Mohita Over the years there has been a steady increase in the number of students seeking admission in colleges. Most of the students try to seek admission in colleges in the metropolitan cities. Hence, the colleges in the metros have failed to accommodate the rising number of students due to a severe shortage of seats. During the last decade, the number of students seeking admission has been rising by 10,000 students every year. The number of seats has remained stationary for the last five years. The result is quite disappointing. Thousands of students miss out their chance of getting a higher education. Many others have to console themselves by enrolling themselves on the Correspondence Courses or the Distance Education coaching. The students, as well as their parents, have to face a lot of anxiety and pressure during the admission time. The concerned authorities can’t sleep over the problem any longer. The problem should be given the top priority. It demands a comprehensive solution. The colleges in the metros must take immediate steps to increase the number of seats. Another practical suggestion is to make provision for evening classes in the colleges. Evening classes in all the colleges can accommodate most of the students who can’t get admission in the regular Day-colleges. Guest lecturers must be appointed to serve the needs. The authorities must wake up before it is too late. You are Mansi. You visited “The Green Gardens Resort” during the holidays. Write an article for your school magazine about why the place attracted you. Include the following: Hints: • Accessibility • Reasonable charges • Hygienic surroundings • Scenic beauty • Facilities available. The Green Gardens Resort —Mansi During the autumn vacation, I visited the Green Gardens Resort near Ooty. Situated in the scenic Neelgiri hills, it is really a wonderful resort. It is about ten kilometres from Ooty on the Wellington road. Wrapped in the lush green surroundings, it is just a paradise on earth. The Green Gardens Resort is spread out in approximately ten acres. It is a luxury resort that caters to the middle and upper-middle class tourists. It offers boarding and lodging with all modem amenities and comforts. The place is surrounded by terraced tea-gardens. Wherever eyes go, one can see only green tea plantations, forests and hills. In the middle of the resort, the main source of attraction is the oval-shaped swimming pool. It has two tennis courts, a card room and a couple of billiard tables. The massage parlours and beauty salons are the other attractions. The environment is divine and the ambience is just superb. It offers a peaceful and relaxed stay far from the madding crowd of the metros. Man is basically a social animal. He depends on others for his survival and existence. He has to work with others and must know how to get the best out of a team. Taking these ideas, write an article on ‘How to Get the Best out of a Team’. How to Get the Best out of a Team —Surbhi Man is a social animal. He can’t live in a vacuum. He has to depend on others to make a living. He has to bond with others and be a part of a team. Working in a team is quite a challenge. One has to adjust himself to the requirements of his team. A team must work like a well-oiled machine. Only then it can produce great results. All the members of a team must work together selflessly to achieve a common aim or goal. Working in a team is really a healer and a stress buster. Success or failure is not an individual’s responsibility. It is a collective responsibility. Good teamwork demands perfect and effective communication between all the members of the team. Strong leadership controls the individuals and goad them to achieve a common goal. Conflicts are avoided. The focus is on unity and cooperation. Mutual jealousy and conflict of interests have no place in a team. Negative attitudes should be discouraged. Each member should have deep respect and appreciation of others’ abilities and skills. Taking help from the information given below and inventing your own ideas, write an article on ‘Swachha Bharat Abhiyan’ or ‘Clean India Campaign’. Hints: • ‘Swachha Bharat Abhiyan’ • announced by the PM on 15th August 2014 • launched on 2nd October • addressed a public rally at Rajpath • himself swept parking at Mandir Marg Police Station and pavement in Valmiki Basti • aims to accomplish the vision ‘Clean India’ by 2019 • 3 million govt. employees and students to participate in • the responsibility of all 1.25 billion Indians • not only the responsibility of `Safari Kaamgar’ • mission beyond politics • inspired by patriotism • good response on the social media. Swachha Bharat Abhiyan or Clean India Campaign —Abhishek Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his nationwide cleanliness campaign, the `Swachha Bharat Abhiyan’ or ‘Clean India Campaign’ from the Valmiki Bastion 2nd October 2014. Addressing the nation at the launch, Modi asked 1.25 billion people to join the Swachha Bharat Abhiyan’ and promote it to everyone. Modi himself swept a pavement at Valmiki Basti, a colony of sanitary workers. Launching the campaign, Modi reminded the people that cleanliness is not only the responsibility of the Safari Kamgars’ but also the responsibility of 1.25 billion Indians. The Prime Minister assured the nation that `Swachha Bharat Abhiyan’ is beyond politics. The Prime Minister also started a social media campaign. He invited nine people to join the campaign and they would invite another nine people. He invited master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, Bollywood stars Aamir Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Salman Khan, Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev and industrialists like the Ambanis. The Prime Minister showed his deep concern at mothers and daughters going in the open to relieve themselves. More than 60% of people in India defecate in the open. Constructing toilets in schools and villages, particularly for girls and women, would be the top priority for the government. The Prime Minister also pledged to people saying, “I would not litter and won’t allow anyone to do so”. Taking help from the information given in the input below along with your own views, write an article on ‘Disaster Management in India’ with special reference to the ‘Hudhud cyclone’ and the unprecedented floods in Kashmir. Hints: • National Institute of Disaster Management • a premier institute • training and capacity development programmes • constituted under an Act of Parliament in 1995 • statutory organisation status • The NIDM • a deemed university • NIDM served as a great agency when Tsunami hit India • to train and conduct mock drills, crisis communication and a hazard hunt exercise • mock drills simulating an earthquake of magnitude 7.2 • played a key role during the Hudhud Cyclone in Andhra and Odisha • evacuated lakhs of marooned people with the help of army in Kashmir floods. Disaster Management in India –Raghav National Institute of Disaster Management is a premier national institute. It trains people for capacity development programmes for managing natural disasters in India. The NIDM works under the government’s directives to train and conduct checks to regulate effective earthquake and disaster control policies. Recently, Delhi witnessed one of the biggest mega mock drills conducted by the NIDM in India. The buildings and infrastructures in India are quite vulnerable to calamities. They can’t withstand the rigours of a natural calamity. The Tsunami disasters in South India expose the unpreparedness and lack of skills in disaster management. The havoc caused by the floods and landslides in Kedarnath only underlines our weaknesses or inefficiency in tackling natural disaster on such a scale. The NIDM can take due credit for its efficient work done during the ‘Hudhud’ cyclone. The cyclone struck the coastal areas of Andhra and Odisha. Proper warning and early evacuation in the affected areas limited losses and casualties. But again the NIDM proved quite ineffective when unprecedented floods rocked Srinagar and other parts of Jammu and Kashmir. It was the army and not the NIDM that stole the limelight by evacuating lakhs of the marooned people and saving their lives. NIDM has a long way to go. It must prepare itself as a body that can cope with natural disasters with professional skills and efficiency. Taking help from the information given below, write an article on ‘Make in India’s Digital Economy’. Hints: • Leaders of world’s largest technology • companies visited India • Softbank to invest $10 billion into digital India • a delegation of Indian digital entrepreneurs visited China • India should take China’s cue • Chinese digital economy • a major driver of China’s growth story • Chinese digital boom by limiting access of global majors to the Chinese market • India, conversely an open door for global companies • Google and Facebook’s dominance in India • capturing 75% of India’s digital advertising pie • Even Flipkart is 80% foreign owned • India’s digital revolution just begun. Make in India’s Digital Economy —Ravi In comparison to China, India’s digital revolution is just beginning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants the digital revolution to be an Indian phenomenon. He wants it to be a major driver of India’s economic growth story. He wants to reverse the trend. Instead of allowing and encouraging global companies to earn more globally out of India’s growth story, his slogan is “Make in India”. The world is looking towards us. Leaders of all the world’s largest technology companies visited India in a very short span. They include Jeff Bezos (Amazon), Satya Nadella (Microsoft), Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook) and Pichai (Google). The announcement of Soft Bank of Japan of investing $10 billion into digital India is definitely great news. The Chinese digital economy directly employs hundreds of thousands of people, and giving indirectly, white-collar jobs to millions more. Digital China is now a major driver of China’s growth story. Why should India lag behind? India should adopt China’s success story. More than ever, global technology companies are eyeing India. Indian digital economy should be “Make in India” and not “Expand into India”. We should protect our domestic digital business growth. An open door policy for global companies must be reviewed. Foreign giants like Google and Facebook pocket 75% of India’s digital advertising pie. Why should we let our growth and money be exploited by outsiders? Let it be an Indian phenomenon. Let it be a ‘Make in India’s Digital Economy’. A spate of rapes and murders of helpless young women in Delhi has shocked the conscience of the nation. Taking help from the information given below and inventing your own details, write an article on ‘Crime Against Women in Delhi’. Hints: • Rape of a young woman at Dhaula Kuan • Rape and murder of a girl in Mangolpuri • Rape of a young lady in South Delhi • Kidnapping of a girl in East Delhi Crime Against Women in Delhi —Amit Delhi has earned the dubious distinction of being the crime capital of India. Life has become quite uncertain and unsafe in Delhi. The capital of India has become a grazing ground for kidnappers, rapists and murderers of women. The recent gang-rape of a young woman at Dhaula Kuan and the rapes, murders and kidnappings in different parts of Delhi have shocked the whole nation. All the tall claims of Delhi Police to provide security to women have been proved totally hollow and false. Every day we find news of crimes against women in the columns of newspapers or on TV channels. Delhi is different from other metros like Mumbai or Kolkata so far crimes against women are concerned. A young woman can walk on the roads of Kolkata even at night but not in Delhi. Here, young ladies can’t venture to go out alone after the sun sets. Why has Delhi earned this notoriety? Of late, Delhi has developed a culture that has given birth to a class of criminals. They don’t have faith in traditional Indian culture which equates all other women to our sisters, daughters and mothers. The consumer culture equates women to a commodity. Young women from the North-east are the softest targets. The war against criminals must be fought on two fronts. First, the Delhi Police must ensure safety to women by regular patrolling at night and nabbing criminals at the earliest. On the cultural front, a widespread movement should be launched to help women in their fight against crimes and criminals. Take help from the following clues and write an article on ‘More Ads Than News and Features’. Hints: • Ads and ads on TV • Ads dominate print media • Mint money; attract buyers and sellers • Create styles, trends and fashions • Diluted news and features ‘More Ads Than News and Features’ —Kalpana The world of liberalisation and globalisation has given birth to unsatiable consumerism. ‘Use and Throw’ is the slogan of the times. Things have to be sold. Selling gives money. And money makes the more go. One good commercial advertisement is worth more than hundreds of salesman. Such is the importance of advertisements in industry, trade, commerce and business. It is no exaggeration that on TV we have more ads than news. After every few minutes, a ‘break’ is announced. And then starts a flood of commercial advertisements. You find the Shahanshah of Bollywood, Amitabh Bachchan selling Binani Cement. Then comes the ‘Badshah’ telling you to use ‘Fair and Lovely’ for your bright complexion. And our glittering damsels of Bollywood can’t be left behind. Ash sells L’Oreal; Katrina patronises Wed’ and Priyanka and Karina settling for `Bajaj Scooty’ and Toro Plus’ respectively. News and features have become secondary. We have more ads than features or events. TV, cinema, newspapers, magazines are full of advertisements. Ads are a trend and style setters. Millions are earned just for a commercial advertisement of a few minutes! If things are to be sold then you can’t avoid patronising commercial advertisements. They are the lifeline of trade, business and the media. In India, we face a common scene of a large family living in unhealthy conditions. Write an article on how an increase in population leads to reduced availability of health services and deteriorating sanitary conditions. Overpopulation and Unhealthy Living Conditions —Apurva Overpopulation is a major threat that the nation is facing today. If we can’t put a hold on our bursting population, India will overtake China within thirty years. It will become the most populous country in the world. The population explosion has made a mockery of all our plans, developments and achievements. More and more people bring more and more poverty and miseries. The growing population is degrading the environment and the living standards of the people. India has crossed a billion marks several years ago. We produce Australia every year. More people mean more mouths to feed. How will India feed its ever increasing population? People are increasing but the arable land, forests and natural resources are shrinking fast. And what about health services? The less said the better. It will become increasingly difficult to provide ideal health services to so many people. Forests and green belts are disappearing. The environment and ecology are being systematically destroyed. Providing shelters to so many people is a huge problem. Extremely unhealthy and unhygienic conditions prevail in all the metros of India. The Government must find out ways and means to control the rising population. China has imposed a one-child system with wonderful success. They have frozen the population. Why can’t India? Anyone having more than one child must be heavily taxed. Those who cross the limit must be debarred from the public services. The family planning programme must be implemented in its true spirit. Using the information given in the input, write an article on ‘Child Labour and Battle for Child Rights in India’. Hints: • Nobel Peace Prize 2014 to India’s Kailash Satyarathi and Malala Yousafzai of Pakistan • The 2001 national census • 12.6 million • aged 5-14 • 217 million children work • 120,000 children work in hazardous jobs • UNICEF estimates • India has the highest labourers under 14 • Article 24 of the constitution prohibits child labour • 32.7 lakh in rural areas • 10.8 lakh in urban areas • carpet industry in Mirzapur • bangle and glass industries in Firozabad • fireworks in Sivakasi. Child Labour and Battle for Child Rights in India —Riya Kailash Satyarthi brought laurels to the people of India for being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2014 along with Malala for their battle for child safety. The world has appreciated the battle he fought for child rights for years. The term ‘Child Labour’ is actually the work that deprives children of their childhood. It destroys their potentiality and their dignity. In short, it is the kind of work that is mental, physically, socially or morally dangerous and harmful to children. Child labour is the practice of having children engaged in economic activity, on part or full-time basis. The constitution of India (Article 24) prohibits child labour below the age of 14 years in any factory or mine or castle or engaged in any other hazardous employment. But all these laws are mere dead words on paper. Crores of children have been compelled to work in hazardous industries. According to the 2001 national census, there are about 12.6 I million children aged between 5 to 14 engaged in different sectors and economic activities. India has the highest number of labourers under 14 in the world. Even today there are 32.7 lakh children who are forced to work in rural and 10.8 lakh in urban areas. The carpet industry in Mirzapur and Bhadoi is notorious for exploiting and employing children. The glass and bangle industries in Firozabad have more than 20000 children working in hazardous and dangerous conditions. The diamond industry also employs thousands of children. The more recent report of the ILO claims that child labour is quite significant in Tamil Nadu’s fireworks, matches or incense sticks industries. About 20 million children are condemned to work as domestic labourers and in restaurants. Many NGOs like `Bachpan Bachao Andolan’ of Kailash Satyarathi are working sincerely to eradicate child labour in India. Only concerted efforts by the government, the NGOs and the public can eradicate this evil from our civilized society. Taking help from the verbal input given below along with your own views, write an article on ‘Cleaning and Rejuvenating the Ganga’. You are Nikhi/Neha. Hints: • Cleaning the Ganga • an unprecedented national social effort • Govt. committed to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga • SC not satisfied • a time bond proposal to fulfill the mission • inland waterways • river navigation • extending sewerage infrastructure • prevent open defecation • restoring wholesomeness of the Ganga • development of ghats • Zero liquid discharge by industries • provisions for public amenities for pilgrims and tourists. Cleaning and Rejuvenating the Ganga — Nikhi/Neha The Ganga is not pretty a river for all the Indians and more particularly to the Hindus, but it is the lifeline of India and the physical and spiritual nourisher of crores of its people. It is a symbol of India’s great heritage, ancient traditions, cultures, songs and stories. We can’t think of India without the Ganga and the Himalayas. Unfortunately, the sacred Ganga has become one of the most polluted rivers of the world in recent years. Fortunately, the Modi government has shown its commitment to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga. Uma Bharti heads a specially created ministry for cleaning the holy river. Cleaning the Ganga will be an unprecedented national social effort. What makes the Ganga a heavily polluted river? Various factors and causes contribute to making the river what it is. The worst criminals are more than one thousand industries that discharge their toxic wastes into the river. The government will have to take strict measures to treat solid and liquid discharges making them totally pollution free. The sewerage infrastructure will have to be extended and updated. The people residing on the banks will be involved and enlightened. Burning and throwing of dead bodies into the river must be stopped. Open defecation on the banks will have to be stopped. Development of ghats at Kedarnath, Haridwar, Varanasi, Kanpur, Allahabad and Patna is an important feature of the plan. Provisions for public amenities for pilgrims and tourists will be made. Inland waterways river navigation will be another priority. Write an article on the value of discipline in life. VALUE OF DISCIPLINE IN LIFE By-Amit Raj Discipline is necessary for all walks of life. Any house without discipline will surely go to the dogs. A teacher can’t teach if his students don’t keep discipline in the class. The head of a family won’t be able to run his family if its members don’t maintain discipline. The members of an assembly must observe discipline if they are to do any good job. No office can function without discipline. Even in a playground, the players have to obey the rules of the game. They have to play under discipline. In fact, discipline is necessary for every field of society. Otherwise, there is bound to be confusion, disorder and chaos. No work or progress is possible without discipline. It is a discipline which enables a nation to march on the way to progress. It must be kept in mind that discipline can’t be enforced by law alone. It is the training of the mind. it has to come from within. The annual sports of your school were held on the 8th of February this year. Write an article for your school magazine on the Sports Day of the School. THE ANNUAL SPORTS DAY -Ramprasad February 8 was the Annual Sports Day of our school this year. Students had been looking forward to it with great enthusiasm. The sports were held in the playground at the back of the school. The sports were held in two separate sessions. In the forenoon session, there were only field events, like long jump, high jump, javelin throw, discus throw, etc. The afternoon was taken up by track events in which there were different kinds of races. After every event, the winners came to the victory .stand. They were garlanded and lustily cheered. Events like a three-legged race, sack race, apple race and musical chair race provided the spectators much amusement. Cycle race was the last event of the day. At the end of the sports, the Prize Distribution Function was held. The function was presided over by Sh. M.S.Gill, an old student of our school. He gave away prizes to the winners of different events. Avtar Singh of XII-B was adjudged the best athlete of the year. After giving away the prizes, the President made a short speech. He congratulated the prize-winners. He spoke on the value of games and sports. He advised the students to work hard at their books also. In the end, the Principal thanked the President. Tea was served to the guests and prizewinners. The next day was declared a holiday Write an article for a newspaper on the problem of ‘Population Explosion’ in India. In your article you should touch upon: (i) meaning of population explosion, (ii) causes of this population explosion, (iii) why the growth of population should be checked, (iv) various steps needed to check the growth, and (v) development of medical science can help in family planning. POPULATION EXPLOSION -Rakesh Sharma The population of India is increasing at a very fast rate. We can call it ‘population explosion’. It is very harmful to the country. At present, the population of our country is more than 105 crore. Control over disease is one of the causes of this fast increase. Medical science has made great progress. Powerful drugs have been invented. We have better medical services. There are no epidemics now. The fear of disease has almost ended. So death by disease, famine or flood is a thing of the past now. It is good that the death rate has decreased. But we should check the birth rate also. We must take steps to control the fast growth of our population. People should be dedicated to the need for family planning. They should be educated about the advantages of small families. The most important task before the nation is to check the growth of the population. It is never possible for any father to bring up a large number of children well and properly. He can’t supply all their needs. He can’t give them a good education. Thus he spoils not only his own life but also the future of his children. A big family is a curse not only for an individual but also for the nation. It is not at all difficult to restrict the size of one’s family. It merely requires a bit of confidence and will power. One must come out of the shell of worn-out ideas and customs. Medical science has come to the help of a man in planning his family. You must have heard about the Babri Masjid and Ram Janambhoomi controversy. What do you think about it? Write an article for a newspaper about the need for communal harmony and peaceful co-existence. THE NEED OF COMMUNAL HARMONY -Sam Daniel India is a land of different sects, religions and communities. There is a great diversity in our tastes, manners, customs and habits. We speak different languages, and yet we are all Indians. ‘Unity in Diversity’ has been the distinctive feature of our culture. ‘Peaceful co-existence’ has been our motto. But unfortunately, this peace has been endangered now. India is at present facing many problems. The gravest of these is the problem of communalism. It is the biggest threat to the unity and integrity of the country. Anti-national elements are exploiting the religious feelings of innocent people. It is most unfortunate for our country. In fact, corrupt and dishonest leaders are the root cause of this problem. They fan the fire of communal hatred. They incite the people to violence. They play in the hands of foreign agents for the sake of a few pieces of silver. The innocent people are unable to see through their wicked designs. The evil of communalism did irreparable harm to the nation in 1947. It will be very unfortunate if this evil is allowed to grow once again. It is the duty of every right-thinking citizen to fight these communal and antinational forces tooth and nail. The conscientious leaders of all the political parties should join hands. They should expose the evil designs of communal leaders. The government should come down heavily on anti-national elements. None should be allowed to endanger the unity and integrity of the nation. Our system of education suffers from many defects. Write an article for a newspaper outlining the defects in our system of education, and suggesting some measures to remove these defects. OUR SYSTEM OF EDUCATION -Bharat Singh The greatest defect in our present system of education is that it is too theoretical. An educated man has only bookish knowledge. He knows nothing about practical things. The present system of education gives too much importance to English. At many places, it is the medium of instruction. English may be an international language. It may have rich treasures of science and literature. But it can never be our national language. Education must be in the mother tongue. This will save much talent of the country from going waste. Vocational education is the need of the hour. We need more and more technicians, engineers and doctors. But, the number of vocational institutions — engineering and Medical Colleges, Polytechnics and I.T.I.’s —is limited. A large number of young men and women, who can do well as technicians, are deprived of technical or vocational knowledge. The 10 + 2 + 3 system was designed to vocational education and to channelize the talent to different fields. But, different states have taken to it only halfheartedly. As the things stand today, the 10 + 2 + 3 system has become a riddle. No one knows what exactly it is. Our system of education really needs to be overhauled and made purposeful. In almost all international competitions in sports, India has fared badly. What do you think is the reason behind it? And how do you think the standard of sports in India can be improved? Write an article for a newspaper on the ‘Declining Standard of Sports in India’. DECLINING STANDARD OF SPORTS IN INDIA -Chetan There are a number of causes for the declining standards of sports in India. The foremost of these is the official apathy and lack of facilities, for example, these days; international Hockey matches are played on astroturf. A player, in order to keep fit, has to practice every day. But in India, there are astro-turfs in only three or four big cities. Hockey players of other cities have to practice on natural turf and can’t get training of international standard. In China, gymnast girls are groomed from the tender age of nine or ten years. Their government assumes full responsibility for their diet, education, training and welfare. But in our country, sportsmen remain painfully neglected. General fall of moral standards, widespread corruption, indiscipline, intrigues and official interference are some other obstacles in the growth of Indian sports. When the question of selecting a team comes, regional and political considerations outweigh the regard for talent. And it results in what happened at the Barcelona Olympics, the 1994 Sharjah Cup, the 1996 Wills World Cup and the 2000 Sydney Olympics. If we want to revive our sports, the government and the Sports Authority of India must make serious efforts. Politics should be kept away from sports. Proper facilities should be provided to the players and new talent should be encouraged. Only then can we bring our sports back to the days of glory. There has always been a great deal of controversy about the status of English in India. Some favour it as the common national language while others want its use to be banned completely. Write an article for your school magazine, giving your views on the topic. THE PLACE OF ENGLISH IN INDIA -Dharamveer English has remained with us so long that now it has become a part, and parcel of our daily life. It is such an inexhaustible treasure of knowledge that we will only impoverish ourselves if we decide to go without it. The slogans against English are coined by those who are narrow-minded and pseudo-nationalists. By their diseased thinking, they are doing more harm than good to the nation. It is advocated by the Hindi zealots that the use of English should be banned in India. All education in schools and colleges should be given through the medium of the national language. And if one says that no good books on science or technology are available in Hindi, they say that we should translate the available English books into the national language. They forget that by the time we translate one book into Hindi, ten new are published and our work shall never be completed. We shall merely turn ourselves into a nation of translators. It would be ridiculous to translate all the scientific and technical terms into the Hindi language. However, all this is not to suggest that pride of place in India should go to the English language. We must honour our national language and take all the steps for its development. All work, as far as possible. Should be done in national and regional languages. But we should have no prejudice against the English language if we are not to deprive ourselves of the latest developments in the field of science and technology. The other day you went with your friends to a Russian circus, famous for its extraordinary animal shows. Though you went there to enjoy yourself you returned home highly disturbed. You felt miserable at the cruel ways and methods used at the circus to make the animals perform antics and dangerous feats. You decide to write an article against the institution of the circus for publication in a newspaper. Write the article in not more than 200 words. THE CRUEL PRACTICE OF USING ANIMALS IN CIRCUS SHOWS -Eshwarchand The primary goal of any circus is to entertain and excite people of all ages. Performers in a circus display feats of physical skill, courage and talent. But nowadays most circuses have included animals also as performers. They keep most of these animals in cages and bring them out at the time of performance in the ring. The poor animals are deprived of their natural freedom and their sylvan habitat. To me, it appears to be the worst form of cruelty. Captivating wild animals and using them as a means of entertainment is a sin against the Creator who had created these animals to live a free life in the wild. And I don’t think there is any entertainment in watching an elephant drink soda from a bottle or a lion jump through a ring of fire. The poor animals don’t feel any pleasure or satisfaction while performing these acts. It is the ring master’s whip that makes them perform out of fear. The animals are starved and whipped mercilessly during the period of training, and it is this fear of whip which makes them dance to the tune of the ring master’s signal. This cruel practice needs to be stopped and no circus should be allowed to hold shows if it includes animals as performers. With the onset of the monsoons, the mosquitoes have also arrived. As Radha Saxena write an article for the school magazine about the mosquito menace and the popular ways in which people protect themselves against it. Your article should not exceed 200 words. THE MOSQUITO MENACE -Fazil Come monsoons, come mosquitoes! If monsoons bring us pleasant relief from the scorching heat of the summer, they also bring up mosquitoes that not only suck our blood but also give us a painful itching. These little impish creatures keep themselves hidden during the day and start invading in swarms as soon as the night falls. They make it literally impossible to sleep in the open. And those who do have to keep their bodies covered from head to foot. The richer ones put mosquito nets around their beds, but if somehow even one mosquito gets into the net it is enough to give one sleepless night. Mosquitoes force people to shut themselves up in their bedrooms even on hot summer nights. But the clever mosquito creeps in there also. People have to adopt different measures to save themselves from this terrible enemy. They switch on their electric fans at full speed so that the mosquito is not able to stand the strong current of air. People also use various kinds of mosquito repellents which can be in the form of some cream, spray or smoky substance. Nowadays we have some electrical devices also to ward off the mosquitoes. But with every new repellent that man discovers, the mosquito to seem to grow stronger, bolder and cleverer. You are a member of the Environment Club of your School. After visiting many places you have realised that it is the need of the hour to protect our environment. Write an article on this topic to create awareness among the people. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION — NEED OF THE HOUR -Goutham Environmental pollution is the defiling of our land, air and water. It is the biggest problem in the modern world. It is a problem in which the guilty and the innocent suffer alike. It knows no national barriers or differences of caste and religion. The development of science and technology has made our lives very comfortable, but it has also resulted in a fearful population explosion. As a result, our cities have become over-crowded, and their atmosphere has become polluted. The growth of big industries has led to terrible pollution of air, earth and water. Trees and forests which can maintain the environmental balance have been cut down to meet the increasing needs of man. Wildlife is also fast dying out because of deforestation. The ecological balance has been disturbed beyond measure. We have turned the world into a big gas chamber. If this state of affairs is allowed to continue, very soon no life would be left on this planet. The only solution lies in environmental protection through nature conservation. It means telling fishermen that they are catching too many fish. It means telling poor farmers in the tropics that they are chopping down too many trees. It means telling people everywhere that they should use natural resources without destroying them. In other words, they should replace in nature whatever they takeout from it. In fact, environmental awareness is a social necessity. It is not only the duty of the government, but also a social responsibility of each and every individual to help in keeping the environment free from pollution: It is a service not only to oneself but also to the entire humanity. Good manners are the backbone of our society. Man is a social animal and he needs society to live peacefully and comfortably and for this, etiquettes and good manners are a must. The foundation of good manners lies in showing consideration and respect for the feelings of others. Write an article on ‘Good Manners’. GOOD MANNERS Harshavardhan Good manners are the backbone of any civilized society. Good behaviour, sympathy, politeness, kindness and obeying the rules and regulations of society fall under the purview of good manners. It is the philosophy of ‘live and let live’. Man cannot live in solitude and he needs society. To live peacefully and comfortably he must have good manners. Good manners mean due consideration and respect for the feelings of others. A well-mannered person is tolerant and he never minds small bitterness and inconveniences. Good manners cost nothing but they repay much. Their display converts enmity into friendship and jealousy into hugs. They create a congenial atmosphere everywhere. They are learnt through interaction and during the early years of education. They place a man on the high pedestal of maturity. Some feel they are the signs of helplessness and weakness. It is a wrong conception. In fact, a well-mannered person can get things done even in most difficult situations. Education is not an end but a means to an end. Education must teach us to respect physical labour whereas it makes us shun and hate labour. Education in itself cannot build a perfect nation as it is thought to be. The work of a farmer is far more important than that of a professor. Real education tells us that all jobs are necessary for society. Basing yourself on the views expressed in the foregoing lines, write an article on ‘Real Education’. REAL EDUCATION -Indeevar Education is not an end but a means to an end. An educated man hates manual work. A degree holder prefers to die than to carry a burden on his head. Then what is the use of such education? The purpose of education is to make people fit for life but in reality today it makes them a misfit for life. Leaders think they can build a nation by educating one and all. They are sadly mistaken. Education itself cannot make a nation perfect. We should realise that the work of a professor is not more important than that of a farmer. We can do without education but we will die without food. If sweepers do not sweep, we would get terrible diseases. Real education makes us do a job suited to our brain and ability and realise that all jobs are necessary to society. Education that teaches the dignity of labour is a real education. You are ABC of Class XII. Write an article on the blind aping of Western culture by the younger generation. APING THE WESTERN CULTURE -Jack Samuel It is now more than fifty years when the British left our country and we became a free nation. But sadly the west still dominates our way of life and thinking. The younger generation apes everything that is typical of western culture. They ape their fashions in dress, their music, dances and even their habits, of food. By doing so, they think they can give an impression of being modern. But to me, the fact is quite the opposite. By aping western culture, they do nothing but give an impression of being thick-headed clowns. They have gone so crazy for the western styles that they have forgotten all about their own culture and traditions. They don’t know what Holi or Diwali is about but they know all about Valentine’s Day. They would hardly ever visit a temple, but would never miss visiting a bar or coffee house. They prefer fast and junk foods to fresh and pure foods cooked at home. ‘Hellos’ and ‘Byes’ have taken the place of respectful ‘Namaste’. In the name of liberalism and modernism, all sense of shame and decency has been thrown to the winds. The younger generation must remember that the sun (the symbol of all light and knowledge) rises in the east and sets in the west. You are ABC of Class XII. Recently you have spent a week in the rural setting near Cochin, Kerala. You enjoyed your stay. Write an article describing the joy of living in the lap of nature. THE JOY OF LIVING IN THE LAP OF NATURE -Kapil Sharma Recently I spent a week in the rural setting near Cochin which is in the state of Kerala. I had gone there at the invitation of one of my acquaintances. It was a tiny village near the seashore. Living here was a unique experience for me. It was like living in the lap of nature. The rural setting of this place had a charm of its own. The tall palm trees growing all around, the pleasant breeze coming from the sea, the fishermen singing joyfully while going to the sea, the village children building castles in the sand, the rising of the sun in the morning, and it’s going down in the seas in the west — all these scenes and sights had a charm of their own. The speed and dexterity with which the coconut-pickers would go up a palm tree was a sight to watch. Nature everywhere seemed to be at her best. Life here seemed to go at a leisurely pace. There was no trace of any hurry or worry on any face. There was joy everywhere and I drank of it to my heart’s content. These beautiful sights of nature gave me joy not only during the days of my stay among them but also gave a store of joy for future use. Now I can draw from this store whenever I sit alone and think of those pleasing sights. You are Varshini. This year your school arranged a special cultural programme on the theme `Service and Sacrifice’ in commemoration of the International Year of Volunteers. Write an ankle about this cultural programme for your school magazine in about 200 words. SERVICE AND SACRIFICE -Lohitha The year 200— was celebrated as the International Year of Volunteers. Our school arranged a special cultural programme in commemoration of this great event. ‘Service and Sacrifice’ was selected as the theme of this special programme. As part of this programme, a blood-donation camp, a free dental care camp and an eye-camp were organised in the school premises. All the money spent on arranging these camps was contributed by the staff and students of the school. A large number of people visited these camps. They were guided and helped by the student volunteers who wore on their shoulders the badges saying: ‘Service and Sacrifice’. The visitors were highly impressed by the spirit of service exhibited by the volunteers. The words “They serve God well, who serve His creatures” on the entry gate pleased every visitor. Apart from these camps, a great cultural show was organised in the school hall. There were competitions in dance, music, patriotic songs, mono-acting, etc. Each of the items highlighted the importance of service and sacrifice in life. The programme was on the whole very successful and was appreciated by all who attended it. The programme was presided over by the Education Minister who had a special word of praise for our school. Discipline implies acting in life as per certain laws or norms of society. It does not mean blind submission to authority. In social and political life, it can never be military discipline. Write an article on the importance of discipline. IMPORTANCE OF DISCIPLINE -Mansi Gupta Discipline means to act in life as per certain rules and regulations, laws and norms, decorum and decency. It inculcates strict control over man’s sense of freedom which, if unchecked, may bring all-round disorder. Basic animal instincts in man are controlled by discipline. Nature is the best example of orderly manner. In an undisciplined society, life becomes insecure. Discipline is the very backbone of social and political life. If you do not observe discipline while boarding a bus, there can be chaos and mishappening. The same applies to the functioning of a school, college or office. Some feel discipline leads to blind submission to authority. Discipline never negates independent judgment. It is not servility. It trains the mind to follow what is right. It gives us the power to point out shortcomings and wrongs. It does not pick or choose. B-38 It is for everybody. Its absence means disorder, chaos and upheavals and here lies its importance. That is why the seeds of discipline must be sowed in our minds right from childhood. The advertisement is omnipresent. Wide markets, cut-throat competition and the need to spread awareness amongst people have made advertising a big business. Advertisement sometimes is fool people but it cannot be a substitute for quality. Write an article on the effects of advertisement. ADVERTISEMENT: BOON OR BANE -Naresh Wide markets, cut-throat competition and the need to spread awareness have made advertisements omnipresent. Its repetition and variation create hardened followers of some particular products. Advertisements can create problems for parents when their children insist on having “Maggie” every day. Too much dose of advertisement gives birth to confused personalities. Even substandard, inferior and dubious goods get promoted. On the strength of advertisement, producers sell their goods irrespective of their quality. Thus, advertisement conditions the mindset of the consumers. It enhances consumerism and lures people to buy things even if they are not required. It creates forced publicity whereas quality generates self-publicity. A good product needs no push. Advertisements can create blind followers. It leaves a lasting impression on the mind of the onlooker/reader. It particularly affects the minds of children. Therefore, advertising companies should use caution and prudence while designing them. Books are never-failing friends. They console us when our own desert us. They impart wisdom. They give aesthetic, mental, physical and spiritual happiness and pleasures. But cheap books can degrade, deprave and corrupt. Books take us close to different cultures, traditions, creeds and customs and establish better understanding amongst different peoples. Write an article on the value of books. VALUE OF BOOKS -Punit Varma Many times when we feel sad and dejected, books console our dejected and troubled souls and dispel darkness and make way for brightness. Books are our never-failing friends. They give us physical, mental, aesthetic and spiritual pleasure. For example, `Geeta’ has the potential to fulfil all these functions. But cheap books corrupt us as well. They spread hatred, jealousy, and animosity. Books bind different people. Distance breeds prejudices and misunderstandings. Books bring us in touch with different cultures, traditions, rites and rituals, creeds and customs. This inculcates a feeling of tolerance and harmony. Great books make us realise that ‘no men are foreign’. They give us knowledge and wisdom and shape and mould our minds. Other means of communication give us things in bits but books give us things in totality. Books bring about revolutions and make the earth worth living. Write an article in 150-200 words on “Adverse Effects of Computers” You are XYZ. ADVERSE EFFECTS OF COMPUTERS -Tanish Computers have become an essential part of modern life. Almost every profession is being benefitted from them. Most of the things that we see are either made or run by a computer. Our children are all reaping benefits from the constant use of computers. It helps them in their homework, projects, and assignments. It also entertains them through movies. But excessive use of computers has its own disadvantages. Too much use of computers can cause deterioration of vision of the child. Spending more time on computers, can harm the physical health, cause overweight and problems of the spine. The major problem which is affecting children nowadays is their addiction to computers, the result of which is their distraction from studies. Therefore, we all need to reflect on this problem. We must remember that excess of anything is bad. We must make the best use of the resources available to us. We must try to make our children adopt a judicious use of computers, mobile and other electronic gadgets. Write an article on the role of the youth in promoting national integration in the country. YOUTH AND NATIONAL INTEGRATION -Umesh India is a great nation of sub continental dimensions. It has many religious, linguistic, regional, racial and tribal groups. Amid this apparent diversity, we have an underlying unity. We must take pains to do a thing that helps in achieving National Integration. We must identify the factors that bind the people of the country. We should create an emotional bond between people of different regions and states. We should promote and share common ideas and values. We can promote the National Integration by giving a chance to the youth of different states to meet one another through national meets and other programmes. The holding of national camps organised by the NCC and NSS can go a long way to promote a sense of national unity and national integration among students. Festivals can cement both the intellectual and cultural bonds between the writers and readers of different regions and languages. The education system, in general, should be revised with the aim of fostering national integration. More facilities should be extended to distant regions and tribal groups. The youth of such regions must be brought in the mainstream of national life. National games, Inter-University games and Zonal and National Youth Festivals can instil a sense of belonging and unity among the youth of different regions and states. Write an article in 150-200 words on “Role of School in a Child’s Life” You are XYZ. ROLE OF SCHOOL IN A CHILD’S LIFE -Varun The role of a school in a child’s development begins as early as pre-school and continues throughout his life. Some consider parents to be child’s first teacher while teachers are his second parents. But a child spends as much time in school as he spends with his parents. Any school provides a structured education to the child and cares about his mental and psychological growth. Besides learning academics, a child also learns other important life skills. They are teamwork, good manners, unity, responsibility, sharing, and the kind of training that he receives at school forms the character that stays with him throughout his life. The school provides a child varied opportunities which enable him to discover his innate talents and develop them gradually. All of these experiences help build self-esteem and shape the course of his academic and professional life. Write an article in 150-200 words on “Science, the Beacon of Progress?” You are Wasim SCIENCE, THE BEACON OF PROGRESS -Wasim Can we imagine a world today without science, for example, our mobile phones, television, cars and trains? Science, over a period of hundred years, made our lives comfortable and meaningful with its inventions and discoveries. Think of any technology and gadget we use today, we can see science is being used. Science and scientific thinking help us to progress further. Development in agricultural production, educational progress, transport, communication and any other field we can notice how science has changed life in every way. Can we now think of old bullock carts and other animal driven vehicles to travel to farthest places? We need rail or air transport. Think of the use of internet and mobile communications. Science has done wonders. In the field of medicine, it has reduced our pains and saved lives and our life expectancy has increased and so on. Science has also its darker side. Scientific developments have led to war, killing hundreds of lives and inflicting pain on the society. It is the same science which changed the destructive atom bomb into nuclear energy. We should make use of science for the benefit of humanity. Let’s hope science is used for productive purposes. People take medicines without the prescription of doctor— two brothers hospitalized because of this — Doctors have done studies and training to treat people — some medicines allergic to some people — take genuine medicines after consulting a doctor — pharmacist should not sell medicine without a prescription. SELF-MEDICATION MAY KILL -Yonus It has become a habit of people taking medicine without the prescription of physicians. A recent case is from my area were two brothers took some medicine bought from the medical shop without consulting a doctor. They were affected by severe allergy and were rushed to hospital on time so that their lives were saved. What does it tell us? If we can take any medicine on our own why should there be doctors and pharmacies? We need to think about it to avoid such disasters. Medicine is prescribed to cure or fight infections, prevent such severe infections and to save ourselves, from fever and diseases. Physicians, or doctors, have undergone a long period of study and training to treat people with such infections after proper diagnosis and conversation with the patients. They understand the history of the patient’s health and the problems. But what we do when we have got a fever? We just go to any pharmacist, get some medicine and take it without even reading what the medicine contains. This causes trouble. How can we avoid this problem? Also, not all medicine suits everyone. We need to know what we are allergic to and not all fevers need to be treated with the same medicine. We need to take some rest and cure by disciplining our routines. We, as students, should be aware of what to do and not do depending upon the temperature of the season. When we get a fever or have symptoms of any disease, better to consult with a doctor and have our body thoroughly checked and diagnosed for any ailment. Taking the medicine prescribed by the doctor ensures that we take genuine medicine. The pharmacist also should be cautious and not sell any medicine without a prescription. Beware, self-medication can be dangerous. Exams are essential to know the level of learning — schools more examinationcentric — learning is stressed — students committing suicide — teachers complete syllabus in a hurry — another way of assessment like project, assignments. THE TRAUMA OF EXAMINATION -Zeenat The examination has become a troublesome problem for most of the students as every student becomes tensed of examination as she moves to high school. An examination is necessary and essential for knowing one’s level of learning in comparison to other students in the class. But the development in recent years has made school more and more examination centric and learning is becoming much stressed and burdensome. We can notice students committing suicide when the board result is announced. This is a dangerous trend. Teachers and students in school should aim at learning without burden and learning has to be seen as an enjoyable activity, not a stressful exercise as it happens today. The reasons for this undesirable problem are many. First and the foremost is the heavy syllabus and textbook which compels teachers to complete in a hurry and test every one chapter or a concept once it is completed. Students who have no say in the way the schools plan and conduct their classes and examinations have to undergo the burden of writing many examinations. Second is the parents’ pressure on the school and students. Parents expect that students should perform very well and get into premier institutions. This increases the burden on students who are naturally different from one another. The third is the students themselves who somehow want to get the very high percentage of marks in order to be successful. They feel, otherwise, they can’t do anything in life. This is a wrong notion. How can we overcome the problem of a burden of examinations? We need a plan to solve the issue from the point of view of teachers, students and parents. One possible solution is coming together of these three along with the curriculum and textbook writers. We need to ask the question, ‘Do we need too many examinations?’ Examinations are not always a tool to measure how much has been learnt. Project work, assignment and classroom presentation can be part of the examination. If such ways are adopted for teaching and learning in school, an examination would not be a burden for students. The man has gained control over nature and animals. This has led to ecological imbalance. Write an article on how this imbalance has affected the life of man. You are Maya/Mohan. ECOLOGICAL IMBALANCE AFFECTED LIFE OF MAN -Anita Raj The greed of man is unsatiable. Man’s progress in the last centuries has been rather fantastic. With science and modern technology at his command, man has gained control over nature and animals. He has become the master of the seas and the sky. This arbitrary control and use of natural resources and animal kingdom have led to ecological imbalance. This ecological imbalance has affected adversely the material, cultural and social life of man. Human encroachment is shrinking the world’s forests. Rainforests are vanishing at the rapid rate. The dwindling forest cover in Asia and Africa threaten the habitat of millions of specials. The loss forests threaten our natural resources, endanger water reserves and the bio-reserves. The forested mountains are the sources of water and the source of rain. When you deforest, you cause a shortage of water and a change in the rainfall patterns. The results are disastrous. The people of the affected areas are not able to get food and water. Even a century ago, the environment was very pristine, very beautiful and green. Cleaning out of the indigenous forests led to disastrous local biological diversity. All the flora and fauna disappeared. Many species of birds and animals met with extinction. Growth, development and the growing needs of the economy have only depleted the green cover and destroyed the precious fauna and flora. Illegal mining, unplanned urbanization, industrial pollution has only helped to make our pleasant earth uglier than before. More than 4000 climbers have reached Mount Everest’s summit since it was first conquered. This has made Mount Everest as the ‘highest junkyards in the world’. India has a history of droughts, floods and famines. Deforestation and ill-advised dam-projects have led to the drying up of rivers. Groundwater reserves are being used up faster than they can be replenished. Trees are wonderful symbols for the environment. When we plant trees, we plant hope. We plant the future for ourselves, for our children, for the birds and animals. Students and youths play an important role in the building of the country. Their role and participation can’t be underestimated. They are considered to be the backbone of our country. Taking into consideration all these points, write an article on ‘Role of students and youths in national reconstruction and development.’ ROLE OF STUDENTS AND YOUTHS IN NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT -Babita The youths of a country are the backbone of any society. They have dreams, aspirations and ambitions of a better world and a better tomorrow. They sparkle with new-fangled ideas and bubble with enthusiasm. They can’t accept the status quo and clamour for change. India is one of the youngest nations of the world. The average age of India is 35 years. We have got a golden opportunity of using our youth power for the development of the nation. The youthful energy and dynamism of our youths and students can be gainfully employed and utilised for national reconstruction and resurgence. They have a duty towards their nation. The nation can use their energy and idealism in the eradication of intelligence. Illiteracy is still a curse for India. The youth can help rural people in many ways. They can literate the adults. By doing so they can bring the illiterates of India into the mainstream of national life. Youth organisations like the NSS and NCC can enlighten the villagers and the slum dwellers in the cities regarding sanitation, cleanliness, the menace of drugs and drinking and other harmful practices. They can motivate the villagers and the slum dwellers to follow family planning. Every nation has immense faith in its youth power. Students and youths of India can contribute to the development of the nation in many ways. They can be trained in First Aid, fire-fighting, nursing and air-raid precautions in NCC and NSS camps. They can be employed gainfully during natural disasters like the floods and droughts. Last but not least, they can lay the foundation of a strong, healthy and prosperous nation by fighting against social evils like gambling, drinking, drugs, smoking, child-marriage, corruption and superstitions. Their conscience must be awakened and their youthful energy and dynamism must be utilized for national resurgence and reconstruction. In a country where onion prices jump up to 278% and tomato prices 122% within a year, the agony of the masses can’t be defined in words. The persistent shrinkage of the purchasing power of their hard earned money makes their situation even more miserable. Let the government act responsibly. Hoarding, black marketing and profiteering must be crushed with a heavy hand. The supply line must be streamlined. Effective measures and exemplary punishments to the guilty can stem the rot. The climate throughout the world is changing. It has already disturbed weather patterns by increasing rainfall in some areas and decreasing it in others. The temperature is increasing day by day. It results in frequent hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, tsunamis, etc. Write an article in about 100.120 words for your school magazine on the topic ‘Global Warming — A Threat to the Life. GLOBAL WARMING — A THREAT TO THE LIFE -Cyril Climate all around the world has seen drastic changes in recent years the reason? `Global warming’. In other words, the entire earth is getting heated up with the sun’s heat penetrating into the earth’s atmosphere. The Ozone layer is fast depleting and we cannot escape the harmful Ultraviolet rays of the sun. This change in the atmosphere has caused drastic changes in the natural weather conditions all over the world. Some areas are seeing an increase in rainfall, while those which have been getting little rainfall face the threat of a drought. Some reasons for global warming may be identified. Industries and household items like refrigerators and air conditioners release harmful gases like Chlorofluro Carbon (CFCs) into the atmosphere and these gases have made a hole in the protective Ozone layer. And then there is the depletion of forest resources. With deforestation, the earth’s heat has increased, for trees keep it cool. Increase in temperature and cutting of trees have led to floods. Added to these are the hurricanes and tornadoes which again are the result of climatic changes across the world. All these contribute to global warming which again is a threat to all living beings on earth. write an article in about 120 words for your school magazine highlighting the inconveniences caused by noise pollution and also give suggestions for improvement of the situation. NOISE POLLUTION -Deepti It is morning time. You are leaving for your school. You leave home full of energy. But by the time you reach school, you are totally exhausted. One main reason for this can be the noise pollution which effects you as you walk down the road. During peak hours especially, we find the whole atmosphere polluted with noise with vehicles continuously blowing horns. This, in fact, debilitates a person in the long run. Children, especially, are the worst affected. Their organs keep growing till they reach 18 years when they are constantly exposed to noise; their hearing capacity and the related nerves get weakened. A child who leaves home full of energy loses all his energy when he is exposed to so much of noise pollution, till the time he reaches school. At home also we are disturbed by noise from one source or another. A public meeting, a temple festival, the hawkers, or the crackers during a wedding party or the band party —something or another keeps banging onto our ears. This is more to be experienced in a city than villages. If we have to protect our children from harmful noise pollution, social awareness should be created about its ill effects, otherwise measures like a ban on horns or use of amplifiers in public places etc. would only serve the purpose. You are Bhavna/Babuli. You are excited to know that your school has won various trophies and medals in yoga and games. Taking clues from the picture given along with, write an article for the school magazine on the topic “Importance of Yoga and Games in Students’ life”. IMPORTANCE OF YOGA AND GAMES IN STUDENTS’ LIFE -Esha Students today have the tremendous pressure of proving themselves in multiple activities. They have the capacity too. The competition among them is so tough that every parent wants his/her child to be a topper in various fields. Besides education, students want to show their skills in other co-curricular activities, which were once just optional or a hobby or a time pass. To take up these pressure students need to have physical strength and stamina. They should devote some part of their day in health-building activities like games or Yoga. A child who is stressed out with studies at school will tend to relax in front of the television for some hours and hence may become the couch potato in due course. In fact, only during such times, Yoga or playing games would reenergise the child. If these are done early in the morning, the benefits are high. Yoga and games keep children energized and give them a positive approach to life. With so many facilities available in schools for exercises and activities, the parents should make their children understand the need for Yoga and games. Using the hints given below, write an article in about 100-120 words for your school magazine on the topic “Girls: An Asset and not a Burden”. [Hints: Important part of society – homemaker, balancing dual role equal participation in social life – capable of being teachers, officers, doctors, engineers, ministers etc.] GIRLS: AN ASSET AND NOT A BURDEN -Geetha India is traditionally a patriarchal society which has been looking at girls only as subordinates to boys. Even modern education from the west and its influences have not changed our social outlook on girls till now. Though in certain areas the status of girls has improved and their significant contribution is appreciated, the stereotyped image of girls as a burden to the family and a liability to her parents is not changed considerably. Even now there are cases when girls are treated with a biased outlook in comparison to boys. In the past too there has been quite a change in the way women have tried to establish their social identity. They participate in social activities and prove themselves to be an able professional like the teacher, doctor, engineer, manager and also in governance. There are also women who are top entrepreneurs. But their proportion is very less as compared to men. So, at home, women are still the homemakers, though they have the capacity to take the dual role of also being a working woman. Men still look at them as only capable of household activities. Many young grooms still opt for a non-working woman for a bride. Indeed, working women are financially independent which is again a positive characteristic. Working or not, women are great assets for the family as well as the nation. You are Bhavy/Bhavya. You were excited to know that your school had decided to take the students to the zoo for a local tour but you were shocked to see how students teased the animals. Write an article for the School magazine on the topic. “Love and Care for Animals” in about 120 words. LOVE AND CARE FOR ANIMALS -Harika Last week our entire class was taken to the zoo for a local tour. It was the most exciting tour for all of us. We all enjoyed seeing those animals, some of which were a rare species from what we had seen in pictures, say the white tiger, langur etc. It took all of us nearly two hours to go around the zoo. Of course, we were a bit disappointed at our animal safari tour, for most of the hunting animals were not to be seen, it being noon. But one thing strikingly hurt me throughout my visit. That was the way people treated the animals. I found people trying to tease the langurs and the bears, throwing banana peels, nuts or even empty wrappers. Some even tried to feed the monkeys with peanuts. The worst sight was that some boys fed deers with the masala namkeens and cheese balls and even tried to poke their eyes with sticks and even scratching them with those sticks. Is it not our duty to take care of animals and treat them as our friends? They are harmless if “we do not harm them. There is no point in talking high about preventing cruelties to animals. Each one of us should ensure that we are not cruel to animals. You came across the following advertisement published in the public interest by the Ministry of Health. You feel that despite raising taxes and restrictions on tobacco products in India, there are still 260 million smokers in the country and the number is still rising. Write an article for your school magazine in not more than 120 words. HARMS OF SMOKING -Indra “Smoking or chewing tobacco is injurious to health” — this is what we can find printed on a cigarette packet, or in the television programmes when there are scenes where people have seen smoking. But how far does the public give heed to this? Very little, we can say. That means people who smoke or chew tobacco do know that it leads to health hazards in the form of mouth or lung cancer. Even people who do not smoke are at risk if they are passive smokers – staying with or near smokers. While poor illiterates could be seen smoking beedies or chewing tobacco, others go for branded cigarettes/pans. In the interest of the public, smoking at public places has been banned in many Indian states, which has quite a high number of deaths due to mouth/ lung cancer. The government also has taken other steps to control tobacco consumption by raising taxes on tobacco products and restricting their sales. Still, we find that there are 260 million smokers in the country. Even the younger generation is lured into the fantastic world offered by smoking! So, the number tends to rise. Though their products are a source of revenue and banning them would burden the exchequer, the government has to seriously think about it. You are Bhavya/Babli. You are excited to know that your school has planned to take the students on an educational tour. Taking clues from the picture given below write an article for the school magazine on the topic, “Importance of Educational Tours in Students’ life” IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATIONAL TOURS IN STUDENTS’ LIFE -Joe Morgan We learn more visually rather than orally (through books). Students get practical knowledge when they learn things by visiting places. A child will learn better about concepts about biscuits when he visits a biscuit factory than when he reads it as theory from books. So educational tours are very important for students. Children learn better when they are with their peer group than when they are with their kids. Such educational tours teach students as they enjoy. A History of places can be learnt in an interesting way by visiting the places. Students have a feel of being the place and at the same time learn the history. Planetary motions are better learnt by visiting a planetarium than by reading the Geography book. Educational tours involve children into the subject by making their physical presence in the related place. Traffic jams, accidents and rash driving are a common sight in metro cities. You are Aryan/Aanchal, captain of Tagore House of your school. Write an article in 100-120 words, on “Traffic Jam”, highlighting the hectic life of modern society, increase in the number of vehicles modernization leading to a rise in demand for vehicles, the cause of accidents and steps to control them. TRAFFIC JAM -Kavita Life has become too monotonous amid modernization. People are always on the run, after money or material comforts. Status symbols have taken the lead in our society. One such is the owning of vehicles. Despite their convenience, their hindrances are many. How many of us prefer using a vehicle over ‘walking’ to our destination. Every one of us wants to own a vehicle. We take pride in owning it without bothering about how it brings chaos on the road. The increased number of vehicular traffic is leading to traffic jams and rash driving. Two-wheeler owners don’t mind pushing the pedestrians to the edges of the road to gain space for their movement. Even riding on pavements has become a common sight. This leaves no place for walkers. Today’s youngsters, even children at the age of 12, feel that riding a bike/scooty would give them a hero’s status. Being still a learner at school how is it possible for them to learn the traffic rules? Their parents show their status when they get the vehicle for their child. These kids are so energetic that they feel if they go at high speed, they are brave! Most of such kids, however, end up in accidents-either hitting poor passerby or being hits by any other vehicles, We the people, including the parents, should consider all these aspects and devise methods such as walking, using public transport and carpooling as healthy alternatives to personal vehicles. Saurabh/Surabhi comes across the following pictures showing the dirt and squalor in metro cities like Delhi. He/she is appalled to see the condition and writes an article for the newspaper regarding the diseases that would spread because of garbage. Highlighting the role of MCD and the duties of citizens, write an article in about (100-120) words. PROPER DUMPING OF GARBAGE -Lohitha When we step out of our homes, how many of us really enjoy our surroundings? Very few or even none. Very rarely can we walk on the roads without jumping here and there, closing our nose to the stinks or making faces at the dirt and squalor that meet our eyes? We talk high on “clean city green city.” But we do nothing to make our city clean or green. The garbage dumping yards overflow, there is drainage overflow, there are open manholes, and the walls smeared with dungs, not to say of platforms dotted here and there with excreta of’ pet dogs. These are abominable sights. The metropolitans should reflect our country’s status to foreigners who visit us. In addition even health-wise, keeping them untidy invites diseases. Who is responsible for this condition? It is we ourselves! We are the ones who make the cities dirty. And so we should be the ones who should keep them clean. When we can keep our homes clean, why not keep the cities clean as well? We should also appeal to MCD to do the necessary repair of roads, manholes and drainage system besides cooperating with them to keep our cities clean. Write an article on ‘Junk Food — Enemy of Health’ in about 100-120 words. — increase obesity — hazardous for health — loss of energy and stamina. JUNK FOOD — ENEMY OF HEALTH -Meenakshi How many of us prefer a cola over a glass of juice ‘? We can say almost every one of us. We feel happy whenever we find a chance of grabbing a plateful of our favourite junk food from eating outlets. A nicely decorated cheese pizza always tingles our taste buds, then a homemade chapatti or parantha stuffed with vegetables. Junk foods have almost conquered our taste buds. Roasted plain nuts do not find a place in our evening snacks any more. Instead, there arse the pasta, masala noodles or wafers which we munch even if we are very hungry and even if it is time for our lunch. In fact, we never say no to such snacks at any time of the day. Now, the stark truth is that these foods are based on refined flour which makes our digestion slow. The wafers or crackers have high salt content and the chemical `Monosodium Glutamate’ salt in them which, the doctors point out affect brain growth in children. Too much junk food also leads to obesity and other complications like Blood pressure, Diabetes, heart blockage even among adolescents. These foods may fill our stomach but at the same time take away the nutrients in our body hindering the normal functioning of our body. Thus we lose our energy and stamina in the long run You are Rishika. Write an article on the topic ‘Cleanliness m about 100120 words. Cleanliness is Godliness’ in — hygiene important, health-iswealth, enhances personality. CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS -Naina If we keep ourselves and our surroundings clean, then we pave the way for good health, and that is the biggest asset of our life, for health is our wealth. It is not enough if we practice personal hygiene while we keep our surroundings unclean. Most of us are careful about how neatly and cleanly we present ourselves when we come out of our homes. But very few of us bother about how we keep our surroundings clean. Very often we don’t mind eating snacks as we talk and throwing the wrapper anywhere. Many people don’t mind sitting on the corner or walls of buildings, some people clean their houses and throw garbage outside – near or around – their houses. We don’t feel ashamed of keeping the public places untidy, that only shows our callous attitude towards our society. The places of public usages like a park, beaches, bus and train stations stink with the garbage we throw around. It is therefore imperative that not only personal hygiene but also public hygiene is very important. Just as we improve our personality through personal hygiene let us improve our surroundings and keep them clean. Let us build ‘a healthy nation and contribute to its progress. Midday meal programme of the government started with the noble objective of encouraging children to come to school and improve their nutritional status .but reports of the recent death of 23 children in Bihar and other incidents of the negligence in cooking the midday meal has produced an alarming effect on the minds of the parents. You are Akshit/ Akshita, Head Boy/Head Girl of your school, Write an article, in 100-120 words, on the topic ‘Midday Meal Scheme – How to Improve It? MIDDAY MEAL SCHEME — HOW TO IMPROVE IT. -Omar Most of the poor children going to school today have an attraction in school besides free education. Yes, the midday meal provided in the school is a great stride taken by our government to implement its “Education to All” Act. Since the poor people could not afford education to their children, not to say of providing foods, the government had aptly combined both the advantages to the poor. The midday meal scheme is gaining great success in many states in India. At the same time, it is also contributing to the rise in literacy rate among the poor. The availability of food at least once a day has made the poor parents send their children happily to school. Also, the meal provided is so planned to give minimum daily required nutrition, thus improving the health of these poor children. But recent reports about the death of children in a Bihar school after consuming the midday meal has proved to be a big setback in the government’s effort. It has proved to be a deterrent as the incident and many other similar shocks, across the country, have risen, fear and doubts among us about the safety of the midday meal. Even the parents have started thinking twice before sending their children to school to avoid the free meal. The incidents show the negligence on the part of the schools and those involved in preparing the meal. Providing roof in the kitchen, preparing and storing food in well-cleaned vessels and keeping the surroundings clean should be focused upon. You are Maria. Write an article on the advantages of tree plantation in about 100-120 words. Trees keep environment cool, check direct sunlight, provide shade, and bring rain. ADVANTAGES OF TREE PLANTATION -Preeti Trees are important for us to survive on earth. Much has been said about how trees contribute to ecological balance and thriving of other living beings on earth. If there are no trees, there will be no animals or humans who depend on them. Trees and other living beings are a part of earth’s environment and each complements the other, for sure. Trees keep the environment cool. If there are no trees, the earth will be scorched by the heat of the sun. Trees keep away from the direct sunlight as they give us shade. They help us maintain the ozone layer in the absence of which harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun could reach to us. Another important aspect of trees is that they bring rain, provide fresh water for living beings and check soil erosion. Trees bring us rain and rain is essential for growing trees. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from us and give us pure, clean oxygen to breathe. Thus we can understand that the entire ecological cycle is maintained by the presence of trees. A number of festivals are celebrated in different parts of India in a variety of ways. Write an article in not more than 120 words on ‘India — A Country of Festivals’. INDIA — A COUNTRY OF FESTIVALS -Rekha India is a country of festivals. They are the soul and heart of our country. Our country has rich traditions and cultural heritage, and our festivals reflect this richness. These festivals are national, social, cultural and religious in character. In national festivals, we remember our leaders, reformers, and great men—the architects of our country who reformed and contributed to the richness of our heritage. In religious festivals, we celebrate the birth anniversaries of the Gurus, Saints, and great seers. We also celebrate Durga Puja, Diwali, Dussehra, Eid, etc. In social festivals, we celebrate the change in seasons, and harvesting the crops, e.g., Basant Panchmi, Vaisakhi, etc. In cultural festivals, we glorify dance, music and the arts. During the celebrations of all these festivals, our great national character comes out. We unite irrespective of caste, creed or colour. These festivals are important for us in many ways. They provide us with a healthy and important diversion from the monotonous routine of life. We forget the worries and fears of our dull life and relax, and enjoy celebrations along with our friends and relatives. It rejuvenates us. You are Keshavi. You attended a seminar on ‘Water Conservation and Water Harvesting’. Write an article on the importance of Rainwater harvesting and 8 PM Water recycling in 100.120 words. THE IMPORTANCE OF RAINWATER HARVESTING AND WATER RECYCLING -Seema Rainwater harvesting means a collection of rainwater by storing it in containers and using the water for different purposes. This method recycles rainwater for several purposes. It can be filtered and used as drinking water. It can also be stored in ditches, canals for using in household activities. New technologies make this process much more efficient. Harvesting rainwater ensures that there is never a shortage of water and people are better equipped to deal with droughts. Water is recycled at a larger scale where waste water is purified and used for new purposes. Recycling water helps in conserving potable water. It helps the environment and saves money as well. It also prepares reserves for dealing with natural calamities like drought etc. Moreover, it helps in recycling of valuable nutrients. We should use water judiciously at home and recycle it whenever we get a chance. Of late, you have observed that there are fights in the classrooms. Students are always ready to fight even over trifles. Write an article in 100-120 words for your school newsletter on ‘Live together, not fight’. You are Ram / Rama. LIVE TOGETHER, NOT FIGHT -Tanisha The man has evolved from the caveman the present modern specimen. He has learned to live in a civilized manner. But many a time, we see the caveman instinct emerge when men/ boys fight over trivial things. People have lost the virtue of patience these days. With ‘instant’ version of things being available, they have forgotten the importance of patience often we see our friends and relatives getting furious and fighting over silly issues. We need to reintroduce anger management and patience into our education system. It would help people deal more effectively with stressful situations. We could also practice deep breathing, yoga and meditation to learn various techniques to soothe the mind. It would enable us to live together in peace and harmony. Write an article on SWACHH TOURISM in 100-120 words. Mention how the government plans to “re-brand” “Incredible India” with cleanliness, safety and hospitality as the buzzwords. You are Amar/Amrita SWACHH TOURISM -Urmila The cleanliness drive initiated by our change the face of the tourism industry. Foreigners have always considered India to be an exotic place but they could not understand why there was garbage on roads. The bilge °I ‘Incredible India’ has received a boost with Swachh Abhiyan. The government aims to not only build a civic sense in the people but also to ensure hygiene and better living conditions It plans to rebrand the image of India and associate it with cleanliness, safety and hospitality as the buzzwords. In India, we believe in the tradition of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ which means our guests are equal to Gods. And one has to persevere to provide the best for the guests Swachh Tourism will ensure a better inflow of tourists. Write an article on the importance of Newspapers in about 100-120 words. You are Rita. The news of the world—makes one aware of various activities—various government policies acknowledged by people—necessary habit. IMPORTANCE OF NEWSPAPERS -Veena Newspapers bring the world to our homes every day. The importance of the newspaper cannot be overstated. It forms the connection between an individual and the Outside world. It makes us aware of the activities taking place around the space globe. It is an important space where the government can relay information to the public. It is a democratic space where s much the voice of common people also gets showcased in the letters to the editor. The carries many important announcements, job advertisements, notices, opinions and activities. One should cultivate the habit of reading the newspaper as it helps broaden our viewpoint. It also helps to improve our vocabulary and language skill. Write an article or ‘Punctuality’ in 100.120 words. You are Ram. Not easy to be punctual—worry and inconvenience for others if not punctual—duty of gentlemen— the necessity for men in the business. PUNCTUALITY -William Punctuality means doing a thing at the appointed time. A man who is punctual is always happy and successful. Being punctual helps us to finish our designated work in time. It is very difficult to be punctual especially if one is lazy. But one has to remember how their laziness can be a cause of worry and inconvenience to other people. A punctual person always wins the respect of everyone primarily because he respects other’s time. It is considered good manners to be punctual and not to keep people waiting. Punctuality brings in efficiency and success. Many great men like Mahatma Gandhi, Leo Tolstoy. Narendra Modi etc. are known to be very punctual. It is especially a necessity for men in the business. Write an article in 100-120 words on ‘Use of Technology in Education’ for your school magazine. You are Ram / Rama. USE OF TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION -Yoshita Technology has become a part and parcel of our lives. It has entered our classrooms and become an integral part of our education system. It helps make the process of learning more interesting and interactive. It brings in the innovation where boring concepts can be presented in an interesting manner. Students are also happy and excited at the idea of getting to use technology in the classroom. The role of the teacher changes as the students also break out of the passive roles. The teacher is more of a guide who motivates students to experiment and learn. Moreover, with the help of technology, the students can remain updated about the latest information relating to their studies. Use of technology in the classroom also prepares the students for the real world. Altogether too many people are defeated by the everyday problems of life. They spend a lifetime adopting a pessimistic attitude, at what they consider the ‘bad breaks’ of life. As a member of the Health Club of your school, you are deeply concerned about concerned about this growing pessimistic attitude amongst students. Using the hints given below, together with your own ideas, write an article in 100-120 words on the `Power of Positive Thinking’ for your school magazine. Hints: Life is full of hardships – do not let hardships dominate your mind – believe in yourself -control ‘bad breaks’ in life – do not live in sense of dull resentment – do things of interest-energize your life – keep your enthusiasm alive – carry out your ambitions and hopes – yoga and meditation – great healers. POWER OF POSITIVE THINKING -Johnson A positive outlook on life is one of the most powerful assets one can have. Positive people expect success, good health, happiness, wealth and good relationships and those things tend to show up in their lives. This is not because they are already successful, or because they are more confident and thus more outgoing, it is simply the attitude. This is a basic law attract’ positive thoughts breed positive results. Your thoughts are much more powerful electric signals between synapses; they affect your life and those around you. Life is hard but still, you have to live. Life is full of bad as well as good events. Ignore frame breaks in life and cherish good ones. Maintain a Positive frame of mind. That is what will keep you moving on. You are a member of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in your locality. Write an article in 100- 120 words on why animals are illtreated and what can be done to prevent it. You are Ram/Rani. Indifferent attitude – 35%; Belief that animals are man’s slaves – 15%; Animals are exploited for selfish interest. THE PLIGHT OF ANIMALS -Edward Animals have always been victims at the hands of humanity. People turn a blind eye to the ill-treatment meted out to the animals. Since the beginning of civilization, man has believed that animals are his slaves and used them accordingly. He tamed some animals, some were kept as domestic animals and some were hunted for food. This abuse continues in the present day. The circus is still a popular form of entertainment and draws huge crowds. No one really bothers about the pitiable state of those animals. Stray dogs are treated mercilessly everywhere. Many animals stray into populated areas after losing their natural habitat. They also become an easy target. Animals are exploited for selfish interests of man. Chicken, pigs, buffaloes are bred and raised in horrible conditions in factories. We need to spread awareness about this cruelty of mankind to ensure that animals also flourish on this planet. You are Mitali/Manish. During a visit to Mumbai, you happened to visit the sets of a television reality show featuring children. The long shooting hours made you think that the children were losing their precious childhood years, which should have been spent enjoying a carefree life in the lap of nature rather than satisfying the desires of ambitious parents and contributing to the family income. Write an article expressing your concern in 100.120 words. Take ideas from the hints given below: ‘Realty shows and children’. Loss of innocence Neglect of studies Overriding parental ambitions Burdened with responsibilities at the tender age REALITY SHOWS AND CHILDREN -Sameera Reality TV shows have robbed the innocence of children. The studies are neglected. This can be stressful for children because of overriding parental ambitions. They are burdened with responsibilities at a tender age. It is stressful for kids that if they do something wrong that could crush the whole world, kids at school would be making fun. The parents want their children to perform in reality shows to make money and gain fame. They do it because they want money, fame and that too at the cost of their children. The children have to undergo great pressures when eliminated from such reality TV shows. It is agony to see children crushed in those circumstances, they are vulnerable and can’t take rude criticism. It could affect the children’s safety and well being. To conclude, no children should be put to so much of pressures or stress for merely winning or losing a reality TV show. It does no good. A sedentary lifestyle gives birth to all kinds of diseases. Write an article in about 100.120 words on keeping physically and mentally fit, and strong for publication your school magazine. Hints: the importance of health –why health is deteriorating –sedentary lifestyle – no exercise – steps to be taken SOUND HEALTH: A TRUE BLESSING -Rubina “Health is wealth,” is an old adage, and in today’s age, it is especially relevant. Children today are increasingly following a sedentary lifestyle as are adults. While the former are glued to televisions, computers and gaming consoles, the latter are typically stuck with desk jobs for eight hours a day. Lack of exercise, coupled with unhealthy food habits is causing rapid deterioration of health globally. It is, thus, important to create awareness among the masses. An active lifestyle and healthy eating habits should be inculcated from childhood itself. In offices, just like tea breaks, exercise breaks should be made mandatory. The cafeteria should provide healthy food too. Thus, minor changes can bring about major health benefits, ensuring sound physical and mental fitness. Homework, Exams, Sports, Work, Friends or Family? There’s a lot to cause stress among students these days! Balancing all these parts of your life can be difficult at times. Taking ideas from the poster given alongside and using your own ideas, suggest ways to combat the ‘problem of stress among students’. Write an article in about 100-120 words. You are Rachit/Rachita, a student. ‘PROBLEM OF STRESS AMONG STUDENTS’ -Praneet Presently, the students are sinking due to mental tension or stress. Due to large expectations by the parents and the teachers, they are pressurized to complete their homework, show good result during exams, and develop a holistic personality to show the excellence in other areas as well. They are confused about their own behaviour. Due to this mental chaos, their physical health is also deteriorating. Their decision making capability and self-confidence is continuously shattered by the negative comments thrown by the parents and teachers at them. It is really needed to change the lifestyles to make our youngsters stronger and mentally fit. The students must be guided to do regular exercise and yoga in the morning at least for half an hour. After long hours of studying, relaxation is necessary. The students must be counselled to eat healthy and homemade food instead of fast/junk food. Communication is the best tool to eradicate the anxiety of mind. Thus, the parents and teachers must be the good communicator so that students can share their problems with them. Hence, a student can always beat the stress through the proper schedule and optimistic approach. Vaibhav/Vibha Sharma is quite concerned about the increasing incidence of deaths and accidents caused due to road rage. He/She decides to write an article on the need for people to control their anger and inculcate the habit of disciplined driving. Study the following information and write the article in about 100-120 words. Causes of road rage; Intolerance and lack of self-discipline; Behavioural pattern-sense of superiority; Due to owning a bigger vehicle; Family and work-related stress; External environment influence — city layout, traffic jams, delays etc.; The absence of the severe penalty for defaulters; Avoid road rage-be a disciplined motorist; Know traffic; rules; Be courteous to fellow drivers INCREASING INCIDENCE OF ROAD RAGE -Ajit The accidents due to road rage are on the peak in the current scenario. Several factors are responsible for increased incidences of deaths due to rash driving. Currently, bus drivers and car drivers need to check their behaviour and attitude. They are very intolerant and indisciplined and hence, do not care about any traffic rules. The bus drivers and cab drivers sometimes show arrogant behaviour and use the wrong language to the passengers due to family and work-related stress. They just want to earn more and more. And to serve this purpose, they rush recklessly for passengers in a competition. For this purpose, bus drivers speed up their vehicles to overtake each other. It creates chaos on the roads and unsafe traffic conditions for other vehicles or commuters as well. The concerned authorities must be sensitized regarding the deaths of innocents and should take the necessary and immediate actions to stop this nonsense on the roads. The officials must be deputed at red lights and defaulters or rule breakers must be given severe penalty or punishment accordingly. You are Aseem/Seema of class X. You are disturbed to see the poor plight of girls as they are not given equal rights and privileges. You decide to write an article for your school magazine on the topic, ‘Girl child needs a good education the support’. Look at the visuals given below and give suggestions to improve he position of the girl child for the social and economic develop country. (100-120 words) Let us give our girls a chance to learn and grow ‘GIRL CHILD NEEDS GOOD EDUCATION AND SUPPORT’ -Bheem There used to be the times when the birth of a girl was considered as an illomen in the house. The families felt so much disappointed that they cursed their women and even did not provide them required amenities and food. They went on taunting them about the girl and mistreated them. The ladies too had no alternative but to face all the tensions, tortures and troubles helplessly. The girls were debarred even from seeking primary education, especially in the villages. Then, we were slaves and the Britishers took no steps for the upliftment of Indian ladies. In many parts of the country, girls are still discouraged from going to schools and colleges. They are made to work at homes for fear of sexual harassment of the teenage girls. As a result, a sizable section of the Indian population is deprived of education. In spite of all the progress made in the country, girls are still not treated at par with boys. This is because; all the girls are not given education. Hence, there is an urgent need for the education of girls. Many schemes are being launched now to educate the girls. CBSE scholarship scheme to every single girl child is showing magical results. The government policy of giving free education to girls will revolutionize the society. Girls are outpacing boys in many fields. However, the country will make all round progress only when all girls are highly educated THE ROLE OF SCHOOLS IN PREVENTING COMMUNICABLE DISEASES -Charan Before we embark on addressing this topic, we should try to understand about communicable diseases. Surely, communicable diseases, as the very word ‘communicable’ implies are those diseases which are communicated from person to person. This communication of diseases often takes place through certain media such as air or water. The commonest communicable diseases ale T.B, asthma, bronchitis, cholera, Hepatitis B and C, diarrhoea, dysentery, etc. In order to prevent these diseases, it is essential to keep the atmosphere neat, clean and hygienic such as not to create an ambience for the concerned bacteria to grow and flourish. It is essential to take effective steps to prevent the multiplication of flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches, etc. which act as agents who carry the disease germs to the victims. Hands must be washed before eating and all clothes and utensils must be kept clean and washed after every usage. Preventive vaccines for diseases such as Hepatitis, cholera, measles, etc. must he got inoculated quite in time. As for the school’s role in preventing communicable diseases, effective and well-meaning functions for the purpose may be held in schools, where people from the town and adjoining villages can be invited. At such functions, causes of such diseases and their remedies can be highlighted. Students should be encouraged to visit slums and rural areas, especially during summer vacation, to enlighten the people regarding the necessity of keeping their surroundings clean. In case a disease spreads in an epidemic form, schools can be changed into temporary hospitals and dispensaries where the patients, can be treated by experts and the school teachers and students can do all kinds of social service that is necessary to make the campaign a success. STUDENTS AND THE ROLE OF MEDICAL CAMPS -Lalit Nowadays, medical camps are frequently organized in most of the cities and even in small towns. The main objective is said to be spreading awareness regarding health among people. Students should try to act as volunteers in these camps and help the people. In these camps which are often sponsored by some company or big hospital or health authorities, people get useful information about their health and the needy patients get treatment free of cost. It is seen that people from localities such as slum areas benefit the most from such camps. While there is no doubt about the utility of these camps, it is important to take care that such camps are held not only in cities but also in rural areas. It is because still in several rural areas in our country many people do not have access to quality health services. Another important thing is that prior to holding such camps, the target audience should be identified to make the health campaign or camp a real success. It is also of paramount importance that the patients who are tested for various diseases and have got the necessary initial treatment should also have in some way the follow up action again free of cost or at nominal or reasonable, that is, affordable expense. This is particularly important in certain kind of camps such as eye operation camps. THE ROLE OF LIBRARIES -Ganesh It will be a cliché to point out that a library is a treasure house of knowledge. The books which are preserved in the library are actually the lives of great minds and the place where they lie is a haloed place. But, so, these minds are not dead. They are very much alive. It is only that we should have the will and guts to speak to them. A library is everything to the man who wants to further his knowledge. He who wants to make some research in any field or him who wants to excel in studies or just to brush up his knowledge can realize the real and full value of libraries. It is of utmost significance that good libraries must be there in every- city and town. Even big villages should have a library and/or a reading room. Books must be kept carefully in libraries. These should be managed by qualified persons who should arrange the books in a proper order such that any book which is required at any time should be easily and quickly available. Apart from public libraries, owned and managed by the government, university and municipal agencies, there should be some good libraries which should be run by private persons who should have the will and spare funds for the efficient running of libraries. Any and every individual, who loves books, has to maintain a small library in his house where he keeps books of his necessity and choice. These books should be well-bound and dusted frequently and they should be kept in proper order. THE MENACE OF COPYING -Harsh Gupta The menace of copying in examination has assumed alarming proportions. Many students do not work hard all around the year. It is because they know that they can copy the answers in the examination and not only get pass marks but also come off with flying colours. So, why should they work hard? Such students are not interested in the classroom study. They become a nuisance to teachers as well as to serious students in the class. They create indiscipline in class and waste their own as well as others’ precious time. The modus operandi of the students who are past-masters in the art of copying is very simple. They just prepare small slips of expected questions with full answers which they copy from cheap guides commonly available in the market and hide them in their pockets, socks, shirt sleeves, etc. At the opportune moment in the examination hall, these students take out their notes and copy them verbatim in their answer books. Another method which these students adopt is that they manage to get their seats near those of brilliant students and then copy their answers in their own answer-books shamelessly. Sometimes, even invigilators are bribed, threatened or otherwise taken into confidence for the purpose through one means or the other THE AIM OF EDUCATION -Jackson In ancient India, education was given in gurukuls. There the pupils were taught on an equality basis, irrespective of the social or economic position of the pupil. These children were given not only the knowledge of the Vedas and other scriptures but also training of practical things of life such as arts, sciences, etc. for instance, archery and other martial arts, etc. Later, it came to be believed that the only aim of education was to broaden the horizons of mind and that it had nothing to do with jobs and employment skills. The result was that students who got degrees knew no skills and found it hard to get absorbed in any of the industrial units and other business concerns – Even those who had got science degrees knew things only theoretically and had no knowledge of the practical way of life. In the present era, people have got awakened to reality. They feel that the capacity to make the receiver or holder of the degree or diploma in any field find a suitable job or profession should be the primary aim competitive examinations, of education- In many degrees are only token marks for entrance test for services in government or private concerns. Thus degrees stand delinked virtually since these are now mostly the competitive examination tests which are the deciding factors in the matter of selection for jobs. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and State Commissions have long been following this policy but other concerns and government departments have also now started following it. EDUCATIONAL REFORMS -Manish After Independence, there have been set up several education commissions and committees to bring reforms in the Indian education system. But, as we know, there has been only a limited success in this field. Of course, now there exist many schools which may be considered much better than most of the schools during the pre-Independence period, but much more needs to be done. At present, we have on the government level a system of 10+2+3. There is high school teaching up to class ten. Then there is 2-year schooling known as 10+2 after that and thereafter there is graduation which coven three years Thereafter, M.Phil. requires one year and PhD at least two years. There is actually no end to higher education and then there are so many courses, diplomas and degrees in various disciplines which require different periods of study. The most crucial question, however, is the general, basic and such education which may be elementary in nature though whatever names, nomenclatures, compartments and components it might be having. This general education is essential for broadening and evolving the mind. In the public school system of education, education starts with play way methods, nursery, KG-I, KG-II, Class I to VIII, etc. The most important point in all types of education is that it should be affordable to the common man. There should be no discrimination on any basis. It should be need-based. It should mould the child’s personality to the constructive and positive side. It should eliminate cramming and copying. The child should be at the centre-stage in this system. His faculties of expression and growth should be developed. THE TWO SIDES OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY By Michael Tourism is one of the most popular industries in India. However, every coin has two sides and both the sides hold importance while discussing its entity. On the outer level, tourism might seem beneficial for the people, the nature, the history and the nation’s name, fame and wealth as a whole. However, on further consideration, it can be proved that it has its own share of disadvantages as well. Firstly, on financial grounds, India depends a lot on the travel expenditures incurred by foreigners, as a source of taxation and as a source of income for the enterprises. Therefore, the development of tourism is often a strategy to encourage a particular region for the purpose of increasing commerce through exporting goods and services. It is popular in India because this industry does not require a lot of literacy and also it yields maximum profits with less investment. It also provides direct employment for the people associated with occupations in bars and hotels. Thanks to it, the average standard of living of people increases well and at the same time, unemployment is on the decrease. However, tourists cause environmental damage through forest fires, destruction of sand dunes and pollution. This, in turn, discourages tourism as increased I pollution disturbs local residents and also it may discourage tourists from further entering the country. The popularity in the industry also gets affected when people cause pollution through littering in the snow peaks of Himalayas as well as in the wide coastline which surrounds l /3′ of the entire country. Henceforth, tourism undermines culture by commercialising it and this is often connected with increasing litter, graffiti, vandalism and noise by tourists who do not always respect traditional cultures, which is sad but true. Thus, it can be noticed that tourism hon. as two sides- the profitable, promotional aspect as well as the disadvantageous horrifying effects on our nation ANXIETY AMONG CHILDREN….. -Amrutha People tend to assume that children are careful and living in the best, nothing to be concerned about other than where to hang out after school. Unfortunately in today’s modern world cases of anxiety disorder in children are on the rise. Children today have schedules. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday are earmarked for matches & practice. Tuesday the math tutor comes over. Thursday is the day their science group meets to work on the year-long project the teacher has assigned. Then there are hours of homework (and those hours start at right at the kindergarten stage. As they get older they have to think to think about getting into university & getting the right high school job that will give them valuable job experience in the future. Anxiety disorder in children is no longer uncommon & parents don’t know how to help because they are not familiar to it. Parents can learn about the many ways to deal with anxiety disorder in children. It is treatable. Medication is probably the first thing that is thought of but there are many natural remedies for treating anxiety disorder in children that should be considered as well. Take the time to do some research & find out what your options are before settling or one kind of treatment. For many, treading anxiety disorder in children is as simple as following the suggestion of their family doctor. However, doctors are too quick to prescribe medication for conditions that can be early treated with the help of natural remedies. You don’t have to be living in a commune to try out a natural remedy – they are becoming an increasingly acceptable option among a wide variety of people. Natural remedies may include a balance of diet & exercise or the learning to use the tools that can be used to moderate anxiety disorder their behaviour & feeling, they can learn when to apply it to a specified situation. Learning about options for treatment can give you the assurance you need to deal with this disorder. STAYING VIGILANT WHILE ON SOCIAL MEDIA -Chandini Social media is something that can be described as a new trend, it has become an essential part of our life. But can something be so good without any flaws, I think otherwise. Social addiction is something that has been running lives for a long time. Several heinous activities such as cyberbullying, identity theft, hacking etc. This may change life and believe me not in a good way. So, what can we do to live a healthy and safe social life? Something on social media is too attractive and unavoidable but there are things that need to be avoided. To avoid them, here are some tips & tricks. Make sure you don’t give personal information to any unauthorized or suspicious website. Attractive prizes may be there and this may take all your wealth like a mouse caught in a mouse trap heard by cheese. While in public places try not to access your social media accounts. In case of an emergency use the “incognito mode” for a safe browser. Don’t use pirated products as they may be stuffed with hidden malware. Guys, let me tell you that, social media is an awesome way of interacting with the world, it’s a great way to stay connected with the social media but it may lead to something disastrous. So let us come together and pledge to stay smart vigilant while on social media. LEAVE NO STONE UNTURNED -Deepa The world’s greatest achievers are those who have always stayed focused on their goals and have been consistent in their efforts. If you have a dream, don’t just sit there. Muster courage to believe that you will succeed and leave no stone unturned. I dream of a world where everyone is inspired to grab befitting opportunities and ones’ physical bring is no barrier in fulfilling ones’ dreams and aspirations It is these dreams that have brought the world to what we can see today and our aspirations will shape it in future. What now exists was once just a mere image in our mind. When we as ‘us’ consider our responsibilities as our opportunities, the clear in our purposes and line for awesome, we grow. All we need to understand is that life is what we make it. What we saw today. We will read it in future. Our dreams are gardens and our efforts are gardeners. The obstacle may stop us, failure may mar our spirit, but then it is hoped that gives everything its value. So stand up, take a step and move ahead to achieve what you aspire for and then persevere to reach the zenith of success. Don’t let the so-called mental blocks control you, set yourself free, confront your fears and turn these mental blocks into building blocks and in doing so leave no stone unturned. Let your success larn you satisfaction, glory and recognition. SUCCESS -Dheeraj “Failure is the key to success…… Each mistake teaches us something” Hard work is the key to success and success is the key to a bright future. Success doesn’t have any shortcut, all you need to do is to work hard and face all the challenges of your life to perform all the tasks successfully. There is a famous saying “No pains, No gains” which means until or unless you do not feel pain or face difficulties to gain success, you can’t move ahead in your life. So, one needs to know the value of his achievements, needs to explore innovative ideas, needs to be determined towards his assigned duties & responsibilities and needs to take risks in his life to have a bright and successful future. The people who have a negative attitude towards life and lose hope can never achieve anything in life. You should have the qualities of leadership, mutual trust, cooperation and team spirit to support your progressive future. All the outstanding, efficacious and wealthy people of this world have led a very disciplined and spartan life and have sacrificed a lot to accomplish their desires. That’s why it is said that ……… “Just Sacrifice Your Today, So that you can have a better Tomorrow…….” HARD WORK IS THE ONLY KEY TO SUCCESS -Farhan Once upon a time, he was a man named Jack whose father was a very hard working man & because of which he had a very big self-be ness empire but Jack only believed in astrology & for everything he blamed the plants & said that this day is of Saturday the day before yesterday was of Mars & soon. One day his father died & days past and day by day he becomes poor as he had not done any hard work for his income, his father’s business empire was ruined because of his own son. No one gave him the job as he had no qualifications & for this also he blamed the planets and said that planets have ruined him. Days past & one day he visited a motivation. He told him that he was making his life tough & he will get nothing by believing in astrology this sentence by motivation mark on his mind & made him a self-made man who has an experience that changed his life. Now, he is a man to whom everyone respect, A man whose life is changed because of hard work not because of astrology. Now, he told others to believe in hard work not in astrology because hard work is the only key to success. THE IMPORTANCE OF POSITIVE THINKING -Gopika Positive thinking is a mental and emotional attitude that focuses on the brighter side of life and produces positive results. A positive person participates or competes with a healthy mindset and is always successful happy and smiling but also helps in building skill. Positive emotions like joy, contentment and love remove the obstacles in our life and we are likely to see more possibilities the biggest benefit of positive emotions is that it makes a person see his/her actual abilities and develop these for use in later life. With a positive attitude, we experience pleasant and happy feelings. It has a direct effect on our health and provides us with a huge amount of every. It enhances our daily behaviour like how we talk, feel and react. A negative person is likely to be narrow-minded and focused on negative thought this creating troubles in life. Positive thinking is not very hard to attain as it can be done through a constant and conscious effort of an individual. We might also get affected by someone instinctively and on a subconscious level, through words, thoughts or feeling. Positive thinking is a way of living the life with comfort and is 99% effective. People like staying with positive people as they are more trustworthy and helpful. So, to use this weapon in life a person needs more than just to be aware of its existence. he needs to adopt the attitude of positivity in everything he does. TEACHER-PATH TO ENLIGHTMENT -Karthik “A teacher affects eternity, no one can tell where his influence stops.” A teacher is a ‘Guru’, one who dispels “darkness of ignorance .” “Gu” means “ darkness of ignorance “ and “ Ru” means “ one who removes”. No doubt teacher or guru hold a position higher than god in our culture. It is only befitting that as a tribute to teachers, the birth date of India’s most renowned teacher and president Dr SarvapalliRadhakrishan is celebrated as ‘ Teacher’s Day’ on 5th of September every year. The legacy of student’s love, respect and gratitude towards their teachers at ___ School Name _____could be best witnessed on this special day. In their unique way of saying “ you are special“, the children dressed up as teachers, donning the mantle of their favourites. With their changed looks one could also see the pride and dignity in their demeanour. The morning started with a special assembly. The teachers were pleasantly surprised to see themselves in a short video shot lovingly by the members of the photography club. Proceeding with the assembly, the school captain delivered a speech stressing the value of a teacher. It was not all. Students came up with on the spot poems on their teachers. In the end, the school auditorium echoed with a song dedicated to the teachers. In short, the special assembly touched the hearts of everyone present there. After the special assembly, it was the time for the reality check as the student teachers of class ___ proceeded to their assigned classes. It was no surprise that all of them proved worthy with well-planned lesson plans and even better execution. This opportunity to be on the other side of the fence gave them a first-hand experience of the dignity, satisfaction and challenges associated with the profession in which they had stepped into. These student teachers imparted and reflected the knowledge, wisdom and values gained from their mentors at ____School Name_______. It was a beautiful blend of gratitude and blessings which made the day so special. It brought forward the essence of being a teacher “ elevate oneself and confer divine knowledge on all.”Forever in gratitude to our beloved teachers …………………. EXAMINATIONS SYSTEM -Yasmin Examinations are a necessary evil. It is quite understandable that whenever we put in hard work to make successful any venture, we wait for some time to see or guess the results that might have been achieved or might possibly be achieved. It is in this context that examinations become unavoidable, though methods and yardsticks employed may differ and that even widely. A student studies the whole year and then needs to be examined. It is even in the interest of the student himself or herself to know where he or she stands and how far his or her efforts have borne fruit. However, the examination system as we have today becomes a farce in essence. It is because of many reasons and factors. The most distressing among these factors is the menace of copying. The students who may be dullards but can manage to indulge in large-scale copying get high marks, worked whereas the really meritorious students who have worked hard get low marks. Even otherwise the prevalent examination system encourages, cramming. Those who have a good memory or can indulge in cramming, steal a march over others who cannot do this. Then, it is extremely painful to all lovers of transparency that sometimes even the question papers are sold in the market a day or so before an examination. Some efforts have been made to bring reforms in the examination such as the introduction of a gradation system, the setting of a number of different question papers, objective questions, etc. But much still remains to be desired and done. CO-EDUCATION -Varshit There was a time when it was believed that boys and girls should be taught in separate institutions. In ancient gurukuls, there were only boys who were given education then. In spite of this, women generally had a good education in ancient India. After Independence, several education commissions and committees were set up. They generally advocated co-education in schools up to 10+2 level and separate education for boys and girls at the university level till graduation. This policy is now, by and large, being followed in our country… There is, however, co-education again at post-graduation level. Some people believe that co-education should not be there. In their opinion, this can lead to an attraction between boys and girls which is neither good for their health, nor character, nor studies. Some other people are of the view that co-education can bring about a healthy competition between boys and girls and thus it can be of mutual benefit to both sexes. It can mean better discipline since in the presence of girls the boys will not talk irrelevantly or obscenely in the class. The most potent argument advanced by co-education lovers is that it can help both boys and girls in the development of their personality. They can come out of their enclosed shell-like personality and get rid of their unwarranted hesitation and shyness. This can make boys and girls more expressive, progressive and forward in outlook and attitude to life which can be of great advantage to both sexes. It must, however, be noted that some reservations are also there and even in a country like England, exclusive schools for girls are now being set up. Write an article on “Generation Gap Is a Myth or Reality “. You are Mohan/Molina. “GENERATION GAP IS A MYTH OR REALITY” -Uday Ans. ‘Generation Gap’ is a term which is often coined to point out the different behaviour of today’s teenagers. Parents often use it as a negative term to indicate their anger and frustration at their offspring are doing. While, on the other hand, teenagers use it to signify their freedom and label their own parents as ‘outdated’ and ‘out of touch’ with reality. In truth, it is neither a positive nor a negative term. It is definitely present. Yes, very much there, as mindsets do change from one generation to another but it is not such a big ‘real’ issue that can become the cause of fallout between teenagers and their parents. As a child grows into a teenager and then into an adult, he wishes to follow a different lifestyle from that of his parents. This might not be essential but is a sufficiently common scenario. A youth’s social icons, his idols and the value system to which he adheres are often not the same as that of the parents. He might like to dress up differently and live differently from what his parents designate as the ‘right choice. His thoughts and actions might not always be different. At times, they shall agree with those of his parents. It even happens that the advice of his parents which he considered ‘obsolete’ at the age of fifteen suddenly becomes full of wisdom when he is twenty- five. You are Ankit/Ankita. You visited the Arctic region as part of an expedition. The melting of the ice-caps and the rising water level alarmed you and made you realize the intensity of global warming. On your return, you decided to write all article fur a youth magazine on your concerns regarding the effects of global warming. Write the article in about 150 words GLOBAL WARMING-THREAT TO OUR EXISTENCE BY: ANKITA Global warming is a major threat to our existence. The gradual rise in temperature is resulting in melting of my caps in the Arctic region which in turn is contributing to the rise in water level M the seas. This is very threatening as rising in water level in the seas may lead to flooding of the coastal regions posing a threat to the lives in these regions. Global warming, in fact, is the major concern of the present world. It is high time we realise that due to our activities like the undue burning of fossil fuels for various purposes and felling of trees, the world is facing the threat of destruction. The civil society, the governments and all the stakeholders should take immediate steps in curbing carbon emissions and stopping deforestation to address the problem of global warming. We should adopt a sustainable development policy to save our earth. Write an article on “The growing need for Vocational Education’’/ “Education Curriculum requires a fresh perspective”. You are Siya/Sohan. THE CREWING NEED FOR VOCATIONAL EDUCATION -Sameer Education is a process which empowers a student to think for himself herself and make his/her decision in life. However, the present day education system puts emphasis on rote-learning and unhealthy competition. Often leads students to depression and even suicide at times. However, if a student is allowed to pursue his / her interests then their personalities would bloom and they would also be successful in their careers. There exists a disparity between market demands and the skills of India’s educated youth. For example, every year 650.000 engineering graduates pass out of whom nearly two-thirds need to reskilled. so that they can get jobs in the industry. The do elope world requires knowledge workers and ski professionals. By 2020. The developed world will have a shortage of 40 million working people, says a report these figures reveal the shortage of skilled manpower in India in comparison to the jobs existing in the market. This mismatch occurs due to many reasons. A few of them are as follows: (a) Low motivation amongst students to pursue vocational education (b) The rigid mindset of parents and educators in accepting vocational course, (c) Many vocational courses that are being offered have become obsolete (d) There is the poor linkage between institutions offering vocational courses and the private sector. Students often find it difficult to secure proper employment immediately after completing their courses. In order to keep up with the market demands of India. Students should be encouraged to take up vocational education. They should be allowed to study the subjects they like Teachers and parents must become more open-minded about students’ career and life choices. There should be enough infrastructures to support vocational education. Educational institutes could link up with companies and corporations so that students can be employed soon after they complete their studies. These are a few ways in which the gap between vocational education and market demand for skilled manpower can be bridged. You decide to write an article in the school magazine on how it is important to save the planet, Earth. Write the article in about 180 word SAVE THE PLANET, EARTH -Raina This is a cause of complete concern across the globe today. Global warming has accelerated the rise of temperature on earth which is said to have risen by 40 C. The sea level is also rising. The glaciers are also melting away. There has been very less rainfall in recent years resulting in the scarcity of food around the world. The death rate due to starvation has increased immensely. We, human beings are solely responsible for this calamity. We pollute our planet in many ways. Deforestation, industrial pollution, toxic wastes, vehicular pollution and lack of greenery are the chief causes of imbalance in the ecosystem. The urgent need of the hour is that each one of us takes steps to save the planet in every possible way. We should protect our forests, save fuel, plant. Trees, take care of toxic pollutants, conserve water and change our lifestyle. Awareness programmes must be launched by the students and NGOs to make people aware of environmental problems. The public should avoid the use of polythene bags. All of us must strive hard to save our beautiful planet for future generations. Imagine that your teacher wants to teach a new subject for the next few weeks. Your teacher will take suggestions, and then let the students vote on the new subject. What subject should your class choose? Write an article to support your choice and to persuade the other students to vote for your choice. LIFE SKILLS— AN IMPORTANT SUBJECT TO STUDY -Parth What are my skills? Why it is important to study especially for 10-18 years age group? Why it is necessary to make this subject as a part of the curriculum. Adolescence, a vital stage of growth and development, marks the period of transition from childhood to adulthood. During this stage, students are facing many Physical and psychological changes. This is the stage when young people extend their relationships beyond parents and family and are intensely influenced by their peers and the outside world in general. In order to make their lives more conducive and comfortable; Life skills is the better option as it makes the individual capable of decisions; abstract thinking and creativity. In order to protect from the negative peer pressure, of making uninformed decisions on crucial issues, especially relating to their bodies and their sexuality. Life skills have better answers. It is important to study life skills as it provides us self-awareness; how to manage emotions, etc. Adolescents need social skills for building positive and healthy relationships with others including peer of opposite sex. They need to understand the importance of mutual respect and socially defined boundaries of every relationship. Life skills teach you how to resist peer pressure. Exposure to media and mixed messages from the fastchanging world has left adolescents with many unanswered questions. The widening gap in communication between adolescents and parents is a matter of great concern. Teachers still feel inhibited to discuss issues frankly and sensitively. Adolescents seek information from their peer group who are also illinformed and some may fall prey to-quacks. So, I feel Life Skills is necessary to subject that everyone should know about it to live stress-free. Video games, Internet, Cell Phones and other high-tech gears are just part of growing up in a digital world. But parents are concerned about the amount of time their children spend with these and worry that it might be distracting and cramping academic and social development. Using your own ideas and those taken from the unit Science, write an article in about 180 words, describing both the benefits and harms of using these high-tech devices. HIGH-TECH DEVICE—BOON OR BANE -Neerja The present-day high-tech gear is just part of growing up in a digital world. Nevertheless one cannot deny that all these gadgets have become a part and parcel of our daily lives. Besides we have become highly dependent on these devices. This is more so in the case of children. Their lives are completely ruled by these devices. These devices have many benefits. They have made our lives easier and more comfortable. They have made the world jump forward with a leap and built up a glittering modern world. They have also opened innumerable avenues for the growth of knowledge and have given a definite form to the wild imagination of man. They have indeed revolutionized every sphere of life. But on the other hand, the excessive interest of children in these gadgets has made parents concerned and worried. Children spend a great deal of time on these gadgets like video games, internet, cell phones, etc. The parents feel that excessive use of these gadgets will definitely lie destructive for the children. This could also cramp their academic and social development. If children are not checked. They would continue to waste time on these gadgets. They will recline into their own high-tech shell. Thereupon it will become very difficult for parents to bring them out of this world. If these high-tech devices are used in moderation they can fulfil the purpose, for which they have been invented, FAITH WITHOUT ACTION IS DELUSION -Kanti As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without actions is delusion also” Faith without actions is a delusion because the lack of actions reveals an unchanged life or a spiritually dead heart. There are many verses that say that true saving faith will result in a transformed life, that faith is demonstrated by the actions we do. How we live reveals what we believe and whether the faith we profess to have is a living faith. We are sometimes taken out of context in an attempt to create an action-based system of righteousness, but that is contrary to many other passages of Scripture. I am not saying that our actions make us righteous before God but that real saving faith is demonstrated by good actions. Actions are not the cause of salvation; actions are the evidence of salvation. Faith in God always results in good actions. The person who claims to be a very optimistic and disciplined but lives in willful disobedience to God has a false pride. Many profess to be faithful, but their lives and priorities indicate otherwise. “By their fruits, you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So by their fruits, everyone will know them. Notice that the message of Jesus is the same as the message of James. Obedience to God is the mark of true saving faith. James uses the examples of Abraham and Rahab to illustrate the obedience that accompanies salvation. Simply saying we believe in Jesus does not save us, nor does religious service. What saves us is the Holy Spirit’s regeneration of our hearts, and that regeneration will invariably be seen in a life of faith featuring ongoing obedience to God. Misunderstanding the relationship of faith and actions comes from not understanding what the goodness teaches about success. There are really two errors in regards to actions and faith. The first error is “easy believe,” The other error in regards to actions and faith is to attempt to make actions part of what justifies us before God. The mixture of actions and faith to earn salvation is totally contrary to what Scriptures teach.