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- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

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Good News

Justice for All: Special Courts To Be Established for People With Disabilities!

The Delhi government has approved a proposal to set up special courts designed specifically to address the needs of people with disabilities. Chief Minister Atishi Marlena Singh made the announcement on Monday, calling it a pivotal moment in India’s ongoing efforts to build an inclusive society. These courts will serve as a platform to address judicial issues faced by individuals with disabilities, ensuring that they receive both fair and swift justice, unhindered by the complexities of the traditional court system.“This is a historic step by the Delhi government towards ensuring justice for people with disabilities," said Atishi. "By approving the establishment of special courts, we are taking a crucial step towards reforming the judicial system to better serve the interests of people with disabilities.”The initiative reflects a deep commitment to breaking down barriers within the judicial system, providing people with disabilities the support they need to engage fully in legal proceedings. The government’s decision marks a significant shift in the way the justice system accommodates and respects the rights of all individuals, including those who face physical and cognitive challenges.Source:Google ImagesThe Importance of Inclusive Judicial SystemsPeople with disabilities often face unique challenges when navigating the legal system. From accessibility issues to the inability to adequately communicate during court proceedings, these hurdles can lead to delays in justice or, in some cases, a complete denial of justice. The introduction of special courts aims to eliminate these obstacles by tailoring the court environment to the needs of those with disabilities.The Delhi government's decision also holds the potential to serve as a model for other states across India. By addressing the specific needs of people with disabilities in the judicial system, the government is not only taking steps toward inclusivity but also ensuring that equality is embedded within the very fabric of society.For years, the Indian judicial system has struggled with backlogged cases, and people with disabilities have often found themselves caught in a web of lengthy legal battles. This new setup is designed to ensure that their cases move swiftly through the system, while maintaining the highest standards of fairness and inclusion. A Step Toward EqualityWhile India has made significant progress in terms of disability rights, including the enactment of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act in 2016, gaps remain in the implementation of these laws. The special courts will bridge one such gap by addressing the judicial challenges people with disabilities face.Moreover, the establishment of these courts sends a powerful message about the government’s priorities. It underscores the importance of recognizing and accommodating the specific needs of marginalized communities. By focusing on inclusivity in the justice system, Delhi is setting a precedent for how governments can empower all citizens, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.Special courts, people with disabilities, Delhi government, justice reform, inclusivity, accessibility, Chief Minister Atishi, legal system, equality, judicial system reform

22 Oct 2024
Good News

RapidX, a high-speed train between Delhi and Meerut

Sahibabad and Duhai Depot will be connected by the 17-km long priority RAPIDX Train Project of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS (Regional Rapid Transit System), which runs through the stations of Ghaziabad, Guldhar, and Duhai. What to Experience? These fully air-conditioned RAPIDX trains will operate at a speed of 160 kmph and include a variety of amenities for commuters, including ergonomic 2x2 transverse seating, wide standing space, luggage racks, CCTV cameras, laptop or mobile charging stations, dynamic route maps, and an auto-control ambient lighting system. Timings Finalized :  The RAPIDX trains will be operational from 6 am to 11 pm. Trains will operate at a frequency of 15 minutes. About the Capacity: Every RAPIDX train has 6 coaches with the capacity to carry about 1,700 commuters, both sitting and standing. There are 72 seats in the standard coach and 62 seats in the premium coach. About the Fare Charges:  For standard coaches, the minimum fare is Rs 20 and the maximum is Rs 50 per passenger. For premium coaches, the minimum fare is Rs 40 and the maximum is Rs 100 per passenger. Update on the Security Mechanism:  The Delhi-Meerut RAPIDX train has CCTV cameras, an emergency door-opening system, and a button to contact the train operator as far as safety features go. Each coach has roughly six CCTV cameras, and the protection of passengers is a top priority on this line. Coaches also are equipped with a fire extinguisher, an emergency door opener, and Passenger Emergency Communication Units, which allow passengers to contact train operators in the event of a medical or other emergency. Speedy Future is ahead:  RapidX, India's first regional train service, will launch on a 17-kilometer section on Friday, October 20. On that day in Ghaziabad, Prime Minister Narendra Modi would officially open this portion of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). By 2025, the entire corridor will be accessible.  Altogether RapidX is set to revolutionize travel and connectivity and upliftment for the economy and jobs !    

20 Oct 2023
Good News

New Opportunities, New Horizons: 71,000 Recruits Join the Indian Government!

In a landmark event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today handed out 71,000 appointment letters to newly recruited candidates through video conferencing, marking a significant milestone in the government's mission to create more job opportunities across India. With a laser focus on employment generation, the Prime Minister also addressed the appointees, highlighting the incredible growth and expansion of various sectors that have resulted in the creation of countless new jobs. From the bustling ports sector to the thriving startup culture, India is experiencing an employment boom like never before, and the government is leading the charge. The government is working relentlessly to provide employment to the youth of the country. Today, over 70,000 youth received job offers in various departments of the central government. Moreover, the appointment letters were not limited to the railways, but also other government departments, organizations, and PSUs such as India Post, Revenue Department, State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, among others. The new recruits will join various positions under the Government of India like Train Manager, Station Master, Inspector, Sub Inspectors, Constable, Stenographer, Junior Accountant, Postal Assistant, Income Tax Inspector, Tax Assistant, Sr Draughtsman, JE/Supervisor, Assistant Professor, Teacher, Librarian, Nurse, Probationary Officers, PA, MTS, and more. The government is also providing an online orientation course called Karmayogi Prarambh to help the newly recruited candidates train themselves in various government departments. The Rozgar Mela is a significant step towards fulfilling the Prime Minister's commitment to prioritize employment generation. It is expected to act as a catalyst for further employment generation and provide meaningful opportunities to the youth for their empowerment and participation in national development. Overall, the government is working tirelessly to create new job opportunities for the youth of the country. With a robust startup culture and increasing investment in infrastructure, India is poised to become a significant contributor to the global economy.

13 Apr 2023
Good News

Know More About the Education Minister Who Gave Government Students a Time of Their Life by Taking Them Abroad

Around 68 students of Tamil Nadu government schools got a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go abroad after excelling in an online state-level quiz competition. The lucky students were taken to Sharjah, Dubai, on an educational tour. The students were accompanied by the state school education minister, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, along with five teachers and three officials from the education department. The trip spanned four days from November 10 to 13 and they visited the International Book Fair, schools and libraries. Addressing the students at the book fair,  emphasized the value and usefulness of reading. Additionally, he extended an invitation to Sharjah's representatives to attend the Chennai International Book Festival, which is scheduled to take place the following year. The students were also taken to the royal family's palace in Abu Dhabi where they learned about United Arab Emirates' history and growth. They also went to the Louvre Abu Dhabi museum, where they learned more interesting things about the forward-thinking city. The expenses of the knowledge tour were covered by funds for corporate social responsibility. The tour was scheduled for last year but got postponed due to the pandemic.  

21 Nov 2022
Good News

This Tamil Nadu College Students Adopt Ink Pens As the College Strives to Be Plastic-Free

The use and throw ballpoint pens are very convenient and popular among students. However, improper disposal of waste leads to all the plastic including the plastic ballpoint pens accumulating in landfills. A college in Tamil Nadu has taken matters into its own hands to tackle the plastic problem. One unique step is the introduction of fountain pens which has reduced the college’s plastic waste and additionally has helped improve the handwriting of students. The ‘Ink Pen’ Rule The Government Arts College in Tamil Nadu imposed the Ink Pen rule on October 30. The authorities of the college were miffed at the sight of used ballpoint pens strewn in the college premises. After a brainstorming session, they came up with the decision to replace ballpoint pens with fountain pens with effect from October 30. Students are adhering to this rule and teachers admit that they have seen a welcome change in the handwriting of students by using fountain pens. Other Measures The College is very committed to make its premises a plastic-free zone. Plastic cutlery in the college canteen has been replaced by steel ones. Flex banners have been replaced with ones made from cloth. Students and staff are encouraged to use cloth bags. Even plastic identity cards have been replaced by hard and thick paper. This college certainly sets an example on how to eliminate plastic use and if the steps adopted by it are emulated by other colleges throughout India, then that is definitely going to make a big difference.

10 Nov 2019
Good News

This Young Boy’s Generosity Will Amaze You

One cannot but admire the beautiful mind of 16-year-old K N Tejas who offered the prize money of six lakhs that he won in a reality show, to his school so that a compound could be built around it to stave off the cattle who damage the newly planted saplings in the school. Tejas, class X, is a student of Government High School in Kattaya. His father is a farmer and his mother works as a cook in a government school. A few days ago, a crew of a TV reality show visited the school to select students for an episode. Tejas was fortunate to make the cut because, in the show, he was able to answer 11 of the 15 questions entitling him to prize money of 6.4 lakhs. Tejas was always annoyed at the cattle that ate away the newly planted saplings in his school. He therefore, offered his prize money to the school to build a compound wall around it. As media reports about the boy’s success and his decision on the prize money became viral, education minister S Suresh Kumar on Tuesday directed the Hassan Zilla Parishad chief executive officer and deputy director of public instruction to take up the compound work of the school. The minister praised Tejas for his generosity and asked authorities to meet his family at his residence. Tejas who aspires to become a doctor had said that if any amount is left of the prize money, he would want to spend it on his sister’s marriage. The authorities visited Tejas at his residence and told him to utilize the prize money for his further studies and sister’s marriage. The Zilla Panchayat assured that a Rs 20 lakh grant would be released to build a compound for the school. Image Source: India Today

8 Nov 2019
Good News

Students Imbibe Lessons in Honesty With This Out of the Box Initiative

A government school in Tamil Nadu has come up with a novel way of imparting lessons in honesty to students. The initiative has not only transformed children but has also thought them the value of money. Some lessons are best taught to children in a practical way. The Stationary Shop The stationary shop opened at Union Middle School in Pudukkottai sets forth lessons in honesty. A shop has been opened in the school that contains stationary books, pens, pencils etc. which are labeled with price tags, but there is no vendor. Students can take whatever items they want and deposit the appropriate amount of money in a box kept for that purpose. There will be no one at the shop to monitor their transactions. Life Lessons Learnt This initiative is the brainchild of Mekala, a Mathematics teacher who said that the idea is to teach children life-oriented lessons. When they do not have the exact amount for a product, then they learn to get balance amount for it. Thus they also apply what they learn in class at the store. If there is demand for a particular book or any other item, teachers ensure that they keep a stock of it. Every month, there is a sale of Rs 1,000-Rs 1,200 at the store. Parents are happy about the honesty store as it inculcates in their children valuable lessons of truth and honesty. One parent even said that such lessons will help shape their career drastically.  

5 Nov 2019
Good News

This Unique Class Is Making a Spectacular Impact on Students

During a conversation between the Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and the education minister Manish Sisodia, the topic of student’ well being emerged. They pondered that they have taken many steps to renovate school buildings, reinvigorate teachers and improve exam results, but nothing is being done to make children better human beings. This thought stayed with Manish Sisodia for a long time and it finally culminated into the commencement of happiness class in Delhi’s government schools. This model is having a great impact and is attended by almost 8 lakh students for one period every day. What Is The Happiness Class The inspiration of happiness class came from Vipassana courses and coexistence-based Jeevan Vidya workshop, which looks at all the aspects of education and life very critically and discusses it very scientifically. The content of happiness class was built by a joint team of twenty Delhi government teachers, District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) lecturers and principals, some reputed individuals and organizations working in the area of child psychology. The course is based on Indian thought and education which is thought in a scientific way. The happiness class is conducted through the medium of mindfulness meditation, inspirational stories to make children responsible and mature and activity-oriented discussions where children study their own thoughts and reactions scientifically. Impact On Children It has been only one year since the happiness class has been introduced, but parents and teachers have noticed a considerable change in the behavior of children. Teachers stated that some students who were aggressive have become calm. The level of concentration of students has also increased. They have become more caring and sensitive to others and show a lot of love and respect. It has helped in the development of a mindset in the students to be positive and creative. Education should not be about turning children into bookworms, rather it should be able to bring out the best in every child and improve their well being. The happiness class is certainly making a positive impact and should be adopted by all schools across India.

18 Sep 2019
Good News

Happiness Curriculum In Delhi Govt Schools

Delhi government schools will teach a happiness curriculum to the students from the next academic year. This curriculum will be for the students from class nursery to 8th. Mr. Sisodia in an award ceremony for students said, "while the government can say that students from its schools will never go hungry, it cannot guarantee that the children will grow up to be happy. He added that he believed “happiness can be taught'. The Delhi government has made a team of experts to prepare the happiness curriculum which will be activity based completely and will have no formal education. The children's progress will be accessed with the help of a happiness index.

9 Feb 2018
Good News

A Transformation through Persistent Efforts

The Government Higher Secondary School at Panjal near Wadakanchery in Kerala was a mediocre school with dwindling admissions and lack of proper facilities. It took the consistent and dedicated efforts of teachers, parents and social activists together to bring the 85-year-old school back on track and make it one of the best government schools in Kerala. In 2000, the school had only 651 students. Admission rate was falling and the SSLC pass percentage was only 20. Now, after a decade of launching an academic improvement programme by teachers, parents and social activists in 2007,  the SSLC pass percentage has been 100 for the past two years. Student population also increased to 2,232 out of which 1,356 belong to BPL category. T I Yousaff, who won the best teacher award for his role in transforming the school, said that in the months preceding exams, classes begin at 7.30am and end by 6 pm. The school also began a screening process to identify poor performers and train them separately. The infrastructure of the school has increased to a great extent. It has got funds for the construction of a new building. The school now has an excellent library that houses 30,000 books. It also provides newspapers each day and at a time 65 students can read the different papers that have been subscribed.  Teachers themselves purchased 400 chairs for the school. There is a need to replace the tin sheet roofs over some classes as well as secure bus service for the school. With the speed at which transformation is taking place, the principal is confident that these issues will also be resolved without delay.  

6 Oct 2017
Good News

Government Doctors Under Ministries to Serve Longer

with the intent to manage the shortage of experienced doctors, the government on Wednesday increased the retirement age of doctors under various ministries and departments, other than doctors of the Central Health Services (CHS), from 62 to 65 years. These include doctors working under the ministry of AYUSH, Department of Defence (civilian doctors under Directorate General of Armed Forces Medical Service), Department of Defence Production (Indian Ordnance Factories Health Service Medical Officers), dental surgeons under the department of health and family welfare, and the Ministry of Railways and of doctors working in higher education and technical institutions under the Department of Higher Education as well as port trusts. The Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that this move is to ensure that patient care is not adversely affected. He added that work will be done separately to fill vacancies of doctors in these places. In a separate statement issued later in the day, Health Minister J P Nadda welcomed the decision. He said that the decision may not have much financial implication as large numbers of posts are lying vacant and the present incumbents would continue to work in their existing capacity against sanctioned posts.  He added that around 1,445 doctors of various ministries/departments of the central government would be benefited by this move.  

4 Oct 2017
Good News

Merit-cum-means scholarship for Delhi University students

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has announced Merit-cum-means scholarship scheme/fee waiver for the needy students. The fee waiver would be applicable to undergraduate students from the upcoming academic session of 2017-2018. The scheme is applicable for students studying in any of the state universities of Delhi namely GGS Indraprastha University, Delhi Technological University, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Ambedkar University, Indira Gandhi Delhi Technological University for Women and Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University. Netaji Subhash Institute of Technology can also come under the scheme after it becomes a state university. The budget of the scheme for the current academic year 2017-2018 is Rs. 10 crores. There are three levels of scholarship. Students from families with the National Food Security Scheme card or those below the poverty line will get 100 percent fee waiver. A 50 percent fee waiver will be for students with a family income up to Rs. 2.5 lakh per annum. Students with family income between Rs. 2.5 lakh to Rs. 6 lakh will get a 25 percent fee waiver. Along with the above schemes made available, the merit of students will also count with a minimum of 60 percent marks needed. Reserved category students will get relaxation in the minimum marks.   The scheme will benefit about 20,000 to 25,000 students.

19 Jul 2017
Good News

You can transfer your railway ticket now to someone else

Passengers holding confirmed railways tickets can transfer it to another person. This change is implemented in some important stations. A notice by Indian Railways passenger reservation inquiry stated that Chief Reservation Supervisor of important stations is permitted by Railway Administration to change the name of a passenger having a seat confirmed under his name. However, the change in the name of the ticket will be done only once. Government servants, marriage parties, students, family members and National Cadet Corp (NCC) students would be allowed to avail this facility. To avail the facility, a government servant must submit the request in writing 24 hours prior the departure time of the train. In the case of family members, if a person has to change the name of his ticket to one of his family members- husband, wife, father, mother, brother, sister, son or daughter; he too has to submit a request in writing 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure of the train. If a passenger is a student of a recognized institute and wants to transfer ticket of one student onto the name of another student of the same institute, a request for the same must be made in writing 48 hours prior the scheduled train departure. Also if a group of passengers is attending marriage event and if their head makes a transfer request, it must in written 48 hours prior to the scheduled departure. Also the same applies to the group of cadets of NCC, but the request can be made in written 24 hours prior the train departure schedule.     If the applicants are in a group like those of students, marriage event attendees and cadets of NCC, the transfer request for only 10 percent of the group members will be accepted.  

7 Jun 2017
Good News

Maharashtra Government adopts new energy policy

The Maharashtra state government on Tuesday announced that it is ready to implement the new energy conservation policy which promises to save Rs 6,000 crore and 1,000 mega watts of electricity. This target is expected to be achieved in five years and Rs 807 lakh has been allotted as the cost to switch to new technology. This target can be achieved by promoting the use of renewable energy, like solar and wind energy. It will be mandatory for government establishments to install LED bulbs. Much more such changes will be ushered in for the adaptation of green energy with the objective to save fuel and make it less expenditure-oriented. The new policy is expected to increase the state's revenue by Rs 1,200 crore and generate employment for 8,000 people. The policy will ensure that environmental aspects - which are broadly defined by the center- are taken into account for energy generation. Twelve departments of the state government have agreed to comply with the new policy in their respective sectors. The state government is also planning to create a separate solar feeder for the agriculture sector and it has given the nod to the  Mukhya Mantri Solar Energy policy which will be undertaken through public and private partnership.

1 Jun 2017
Good News

School students to get Aadhaar Card in UP

In a bid to ensure better transparency and to increase overall efficiency to keep a track on fake registeration, Uttar Pradesh government will give all its school students Aadhaar Card. All the government schools students in Uttar Pradesh from class I to VIII will get Aadhaar cards. There are 1.78 crore students enrolled in 1.68 lakh school therefore to keep a record of all these students and its authentic documents, Aadhaar card will be issued to them. The government also mentioned that teacher’s salary will also be linked to Aadhaar card now. As per the report published in The Times of India, officials said they had been given an ultimatum by the basic education minister (independent charge) Anupama Jaiswal to hold camps in schools and ensure each student has an Aadhaar number by July end. Various agencies involved in the process for government schoolchildren are already coordinating with each other, and soon camps will be held in government schools. Once issued, the Aadhar card will be the students' identification document. It will also be required by students for receiving benefits under various school-related schemes. Union ministry of human resource development had earlier issued instructions where students across the country will get mid-day meals on sharing their unique ID number. "It will be a game-changer for the basic education department of UP and the card will bring transparency to nomination of children in schools,'' said joint director, basic education, Lalita Pradeep. With the help of Aadhaar card, schools can also know at which point the student drops out. and its progress will also be tracked.

10 May 2017
Good News

Positive Reads

Himachal Pradesh Launches ‘My School-My Pride’ Campaign to Transform Government Education System

In a significant move towards transforming the quality of education in government schools, Himachal Pradesh has launched the 'My School-My Pride' campaign. With an aim to align with the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020, this initiative seeks to encourage active participation from individuals and organizations to bring about a positive change in the education system. Revolutionizing Education in Government Schools Under the 'My School-My Pride' campaign, stakeholders will be urged to adopt schools and contribute to various aspects of students' growth. This includes providing career counseling, offering remedial teaching, coaching students for examinations, and engaging in community support services. The campaign also emphasizes the importance of monetary contributions for infrastructure development, event sponsorship, scholarships, and support for the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) program. Active Participation from the Society One of the key features of the campaign is the 'Giving back to society' initiative, which encourages retired teachers, professionals, housewives, or any other member of the society to become part of the academic support team. These individuals will teach students without any payment or honorarium, ensuring continuous academic support during teacher shortages or leaves. Non-academic teams will also contribute to sports, co-curricular activities, skill training, arts, and more. Adoption by Dignitaries and Government Officers To further enhance the campaign's impact, dignitaries, Members of Parliament, MLAs, and government officers are encouraged to adopt at least one government school as patrons. By doing so, they can suggest improvements, stay informed about students' progress, and actively participate in the school's development. Additionally, officers from the education department will act as mentors for specific schools, providing guidance and support. Transparent Monitoring and Accountability To ensure transparency, accountability, and real-time monitoring of activities, the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) will launch an online portal dedicated to the 'Apna Vidyalaya' program. This portal will serve as a platform for stakeholders to track and monitor their contributions and activities related to the adopted schools. Such transparency will help in maintaining the campaign's integrity and effectiveness. Holistic Approach towards Education The 'My School-My Pride' campaign aims to bring about a holistic transformation in the education system. In addition to academic support, it includes the 'systematic adolescent management and value addition dialogue' (SAMVAD) component. This component focuses on educating school-going adolescents on moral values, drug awareness, nutrition, legal knowledge, and empowerment schemes. By addressing these crucial aspects, the campaign strives to create a sustainable model for educational improvement. A Ray of Hope for Government Schools The launch of the 'My School-My Pride' campaign is a significant step towards revitalizing the public education system in Himachal Pradesh. As government schools cater to over 55% of students in the state, this initiative holds the promise of bringing about a positive transformation in their educational experience. By emphasizing community engagement, mentoring, and active participation from various stakeholders, the campaign aims to uplift the quality of education and create a conducive learning environment. The 'My School-My Pride' campaign launched by Himachal Pradesh is a commendable effort to transform the government education system. By promoting active involvement from individuals and organizations, encouraging transparent monitoring, and adopting a holistic approach towards education, this campaign has the potential to bring about a positive and sustainable change in the quality of education in government schools. With the support of the society, government officials, and the education department, Himachal Pradesh is paving the way for a brighter future for its students.

17 Jan 2024
Positive Reads

The Power of Backfiring: The Fascinating Phenomenon of the Streisand Effect

The Streisand effect is a phenomenon where an attempt to suppress or censor information actually ends up drawing more attention to it. This effect is named after American singer Barbra Streisand, who in 2003 sued a photographer for taking pictures of her Malibu home, which she wanted to keep private. However, Streisand’s legal action against the photographer only served to draw more attention to the pictures and her attempts to keep her home hidden from the public eye. The effect occurs when an individual, organization, or government attempts to hide, censor, or remove information that they do not want the public to see. This attempt often backfires, as it causes the information to gain more attention than it would have otherwise received. This happens because people are naturally curious and tend to be more interested in things that are forbidden or hidden. Social media and the internet have made the Streisand effect more prevalent in recent years. Once information is posted online, it can be difficult or even impossible to remove completely. Attempts to do so often draw more attention to the information and can even create a Streisand effect chain reaction as others share the information in response to attempts to suppress it. The Streisand effect can have significant consequences for individuals and organizations attempting to suppress information. It can damage their reputation, increase scrutiny, and even lead to legal action against them. Therefore, it is important to consider the potential consequences before attempting to hide or censor information. It is often better to address the issue directly and transparently than to attempt to suppress it.

6 Mar 2023
Positive Reads

Global News

Cat Lovers Rejoice: 30-Year Ban on Cats in Government Housing Lifted!

Singapore has recently made a groundbreaking decision to lift the 30-year ban on owning cats in government housing, providing millions of felines with the opportunity to become citizens. This move comes as a significant relief to cat owners who have long desired to legally keep their beloved companions in their homes. Previously, Singapore's strict regulations prohibited the ownership of cats in government housing, which accounted for about 80% of the population's residences. While dogs were allowed, cat lovers faced challenges such as the inability to register for pet insurance or access certain veterinary procedures. The change in legislation is believed to have been prompted by a recent survey among government housing occupants, where an overwhelming majority of 90% expressed that cats make good and non-disruptive pets. This positive sentiment undoubtedly played a crucial role in the authorities' decision to lift the ban. The lifting of the ban not only brings joy to cat owners but also raises questions about how many previously hidden cats will now come out of the shadows. It will be interesting to see how strictly the law will be enforced when it comes to cat ownership in government housing. This progressive move signifies a step forward for Singapore's pet-owning community after three decades of restrictions. With cats now granted citizenship in government housing, countless feline companions will have the chance to live happily alongside their human families.

15 Jan 2024
Global News

Reshaping India's Workforce: A Vision for Skill Development

The global demand for skilled young Indians is on the rise. Prime Minister Narendra Modi cited a study indicating that 16 countries have planned to enlist approximately 4 million competent youth in light of the increasing aging populations in many nations. Polishing Soft Skills: The Prime minister stated that as a result, training, cutting-edge equipment, and financial support are being offered. "Government is spending Rs 13,000 crore on this, and in Maharashtra, 500 plus skill centers will take this forward in the state," he said. The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity for soft skill training, such as instruction in fundamental foreign languages and the use of AI tools for language interpretation to make candidates more appealing to employers.   The PM also discussed the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, an initiative that was launched to assist people who work as barbers, carpenters, washermen, goldsmiths, or ironsmiths.   The lack of focus on skill development resulted in limited employment opportunities for numerous young individuals, primarily due to their insufficient skill sets. The administration has recognized the importance of skill development and established a separate ministry with its own budgetary allocation and a number of programs that benefited more than 1.30 crore youth across a variety of fields. In addition, hundreds of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras were opened across the nation. The Road Ahead is full of Ignition to pursuit:  The PM underscored the importance of identifying areas for improvement to further enhance the nation's capabilities amid ongoing skill development initiatives. Specifically, in India's manufacturing sector, he highlighted the critical need for high-quality, fault-free products, while also addressing the demands of "Industry 4.0" for new and advanced capabilities.

25 Oct 2023
Global News

Star Citizens

A Teacher in Tamil Nadu Builds Toilets so That Girls Don’t Have to Skip School

A teacher in a government school in Tamil Nadu was shocked to know that girls don’t use toilets in school as they are in a very poor and unhygienic condition. The girls therefore skip school during their periods and on other days control their bladder as they have no proper toilets. Satheesh Kumar , a teacher at Poovalur Government Higher Secondary school in Tiruchy was very concerned for the hapless girls and decided to help them out. He initially geared up to make repairs and renovations to the existing toilets, but soon found that his efforts are in vain as 135 students had only one toilet with four cubicles. Kumar realized that the girls used toilets at home just before coming to school at 8 am and would relieve themselves only after going home at 4 pm. He decided to build a new toilet with the award money of Rs 50,000 which he had recently won for best teacher. Many people pitched in with funds to help. He resorted to crowdfunding and received donations from people all over in India. Thanks to his dedicated efforts, the school this month inaugurated a swanky new toilet for girls and female staff which was built at a cost of 10.50 lakhs. The construction of the toilet began in January 2019 and it was ready in November. There are 14 toilets for the girls and four toilets for teachers while one toilet is for the differently-abled. The toilet which is built on an 820-sq. ft area is equipped with a washbasin, napkin vending machines and incinerators. The sensitive and compassionate nature of Satheesh Kumar led him to do a noble act. The girls of the government schools are happy beyond measure. One girl exclaimed that the new toilet is a huge relief for them as they no longer have to control their bladder for eight hours and can henceforth, regularly attend school.   

17 Dec 2019
Star Citizens

Global Inspirations

Low crime rates leads to closure of Dutch prisons

It is good news to hear that prisons are shutting down due to decline in crime rates. Five Dutch prisons are going to be closed in the Netherlands due to the staggeringly low crime rates. In 2013, the Dutch government had closed 19 of their prisons. The government ordered the closures as it was becoming difficult to maintain the prisons. The tiny country doesn't have the capital to maintain such large, unoccupied facilities. The prisons at the Zoetermeer, Heerhugowaard, Almere, Almelo, Ter Apel locations will soon be closed. The government's investment in rehabilitation programmes and lighter drug laws have led to the decrease in crime rates. The prisoners are allowed to make their lives more productive instead of languishing in cells.The use of electronic ankle tags allows prisoners convicted of minor offenses to go back to work and participate in society. Thus it is possible to monitor the prisoners instead of keeping them in prisons and using up millions of federal tax dollars. The above measures have significantly helped to bring down the incarceration rate. Currently, the incarceration rate in Netherlands is 69 incarcerations per 100,000 Dutch people which are very low as compared to 716 per 100,000 in the United States which has the highest ranking incarceration rate. The closure of prisons will render many people jobless. It has been decided to transfer a large percentage of the workers to other positions within Dutch law enforcement.          

6 Jun 2017
Global Inspirations

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