BPP Souvenir 2023

We are gearing up for our grand event, Pravasi Mahotsav 2023. As an organization spreading its wings all over the Indian diaspora living in Kuwait, BPP has been working for the welfare of them. It is a socio-cultural forum that has been trying to bring the culture and heritage of India alive among them. It is not only about enjoyment at the fullest extent, but also about inducing it to the generation next. Thanks to the government of Kuwait and government of India for the wholesome support to the Indians in Kuwait, ever since the expatriation to Kuwait from India started.

In those unprecedented days, the government of Kuwait has treated the expatriates par with their own citizens. They have been given the best of the medical facilities, free vaccinations and immunisation. The souvenir reflects the activities of our organisation in the last three years. The members have wholeheartedly contributed their works in various Indian languages. It indeed showcases the diversity in unity of our nation.

In the pandemic times, our members worked meticulously. In the beginning, while many lost their jobs and many were struggling to meet their both ends meet we were in forefront in providing the Indian community members food kits and immediate medical aid. We have joined hands with the Vande Bharat mission and were able to charter flights for the emergency travel. Plenty of online programmes were organised during the Covid times, giving the participants a deep sigh of relief and educational benefits. Talks and competitions for students at various age groups also attracted many.

Without the support of the BPP family members and our sponsors, the programme would not be possible. In the wake of pandemic, we are all in full swing. Thank you one and all.

Parimita Bora

Rajesh R.J.

Lakshmi Abhilash

Rashmi Shiju

Reshmi Naveen Gopal

I want to tell the youth, don't just focus on your future but also lay the foundation of the country's future. As President, you have my full support."

we have to build an India that will be ‘Aatmanirbhar'

Smt. Droupadi Murmu Indian President

Narendra Damodardas Modi Prime Minister of India

India does not need to become anything else. India must become only India. This is a country that once upon a time was called the golden bird.

Innovation for the people

and by the people is the direction of our New India

We are not here for any positions, but for a responsibility"

"Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,Sabka Vishwas and now Sabka Prayas are vital for the achievement of our goals."

INSPECTION SOLUTIONS THROUGHOUT THE ASSET LIFECYCLE

I n the face of more challenging regulation, production environments and budgets, the management of oil and gas, renewables, infrastructure, petrochemical and power operations has become more complex. To address these issues, operators need a trusted global inspection partner to ensure that assets comply with the latest safety, performance, regulatory and quality assurance demands through added value not added . cost

An integrated inspection service DNV’s inspection capabilities extend worldwide, covering the .main geographies and markets in which our customers operate Our services include vendor and site inspection during the capital expenditure (CAPEX) phase and in-service inspection during the OPEX phase. Wherever our customers’ operations, projects or vendors are located, our customers have access to competent professionals who are delivering from within a global model that ensures a high level of consistency and quality in service

D NV supports customers in solving complex technical issues. Our inspection services have been designed to deliver quality and support to our customers’ projects throughout the asset lifecycle.

By using common processes, procedures and systems across our global network, we can manage every inspection project consistently from project start-up to delivery and throughout the operational expenditure (OPEX) phase. This enables our customers to build sustainable business performance and to create

.stakeholder trust in a consistent way worldwide

Our network of over 6500 inspectors and dedicated customer coordinators is enhanced by a broad service portfolio, global best practice and a worldwide network of experts who support our customers with tailored technical solutions

PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE

“Samarthyamulam swatantrayam, Shrammulam cha vaibhavam” The source of freedom of any society or nation is its strength. The source of it’s glory, and the progress is its Labour force”

Words by our beloved prime minister on the emerging new India!..

Dear BPP family members, friends, well wishers and associates. It’s my pleasure to be a part of this great consortium that has been initiated with a clear vision of service to the humanity alongside “Nation first” policy! I would like to humbly bow down to the office bearers, core members, and the executive committee for bestowing their confidence and rendering their wholehearted support to me during my tenure.

As the president of BPP , I am deeply honored to serve the BPP family by growing the organization to a new level and providing the best service and support to the society. Thanking each one for your continuing support.

Let us continue to inspire our generation next to the thoughts of our Nation first and take our country to the pinnacle of glory and success under the strong leadership of our Government! Jaihind

Binoy Sebastian President Bpp

Reshmi Naveen Gopal Convener

Athira Sukesh General secretary Salmiya area Committee

Sindhu Surendran President Fahaheel area Committee

Shani Renjith General secretary Fahaheel area Committee

Aswathy Sreenath President Abbasiya area Committee

Rani Gopakumar General secretary Abbasiya area Committee

Biswa Renjan Sahoo President Fahaheel Area Committee

S R Gopa Kumar Working President Abbasiya Area Committee

G.S.Santhosh Kumar General secretary Abbasiya area Committee

Jaya Shankar President Farwaniya Area Committee

Rajesh R. J. Gen. Secretary Farwaniya Area Committee

Vinod Kumar Joint Secretary Raj Bhandary Joint Secretary

Ramash Chandran President Salmiya Area Committee

Sudhir V. Menon Gen. Secretary

Surendran Treasurer

Binoy Sebastian President Sampath Vice President

Vinod Kumar Volunteer committee

Raj Bhandary Transportation & Food committee

Surendran Coupon committee

Sampath Program committee

Binoy Sebastian Sponsorship committee

Reshmi Naveen Gopal Souvenir committee

Sudhir V. Menon Reception committee

Rajesh R. J. Joint Convenor

Shainu Govindankutty Programmee Convenor

Panchaari brings together a team of experienced musicians endowed with talent who will be rendering heartfelt compositions of his through this platform which will create long-lasting impressions in people’s minds. Our genre of music is Indian where folk, romantic, and fusions of classical songs will cater to an audience ranging from a six-year-old kid to a sixty-year-old and our moment of the award would be when we find our audience musically tilting their head, finger-snapping, and whispering the songs along with the singers. Our mission is also to present before you the raw essence of traditional Indian music, native and classic melodies of the past, and keeping in mind that the new generation should realize the rich core value of our music. With this plethora range of music, Panchaari will be giving a new dimension to performances that have never been witnessed on any stage.

is a Music Director in the Malayalam film industry who needs no introduction. Ranjin, who hails from Palakkad started his stint with music at a very young age. Ranjin’s musical journey has been in association with several media houses, TV Channels, Ads, jingles, short films, and music albums. . Ranjin has lent his music to well-noted movies like the latest Megha hit Malikappuram, Kadavar (Tamil) Kaanakaane, Joseph, Kaval, Night drive, Patham Valavu and many more to come. His recognition in the field of composing came from the movies “Malikappuram” & “Joseph”, which won him various awards and accolades including the Vayalar award for Best Music Director and Best song of the year award from Mazhavil Manorama. He was also a part of the movie “Odiyan” the Mohanlal starrer where he composed music for the 2 promos which were widely appreciated. Ranjin is also passionate about harnessing new talents in the industry and bringing them to lime light

Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana, 2017

The Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) is a mandatory insurance scheme aimed at safeguarding the interests of Indian emigrant workers falling under Emigration Check Required (ECR) category going for overseas employment to ECR countries. The Scheme, initially launched in 2003, has been amended in 2006, 2008 and 2017 with the overarching objective of strengthening the coverage of emigrant workers .

The last comprehensive review of the Scheme has been undertaken during 2017 in consultation with all stake holders. The revised scheme PBBY, 2017 has become operational w.e.f. August 1,2017. Presently, the scheme provides an insurance cover of Rs. 10 lakhs in case of accidental death/permanent disability at an insurance premium of Rs. 275 and Rs. 375 for a period of two and three years respectively. The revised scheme has also been made compulsory for various professions falling under work categories under Section 2(o) of Emigration Act, 1983 irrespective of the passport categories. PBBY, 2017 also includes global insurance coverage irrespective of employer and location, has facility for online renewal and a simplified process for certification of accidental death/permanent disability. The scheme is now more beneficial for emigrant workers and is aimed at ensuring an expeditious settlement of claims.

Salient features of PBBY, 2017 are as follows :

● The Insured person shall be covered for a sum of Rs.10.00 lakhs in the event of accidental death or permanent disability leading to loss of employment while in employment abroad, irrespective of change of employer/location of insured person.

● Certification of accidental death or permanent disability by Indian Missions and Posts abroad shall be accepted by the insurance companies.

● Medical insurance cover including injuries / sickness / ailment / diseases available upto Rs.1,00,000/- (up to Rs. 50,000 per hospitalization).

● Repatriation cover for medically unfit/premature termination of employment: Actual one-way economy class air fare to the nearest international airport in India.

● Family Hospitalization in India available upto Rs. 50,000/- for Spouse and first two children upto 21 years of age.

● Maternity expenses benefit to women emigrants available upto Rs. 50,000/-.

● Reimbursement of return economy class air fare to the nearest international airport to one attendant in case of emigrant’s accidental death or permanent disability.

● Legal expenses on litigation related to emigrant’s overseas employment admissible upto Rs. 45,000/-.

● Provision for on-line renewal of PBBY policy

For more details about this scheme. Call up 98738016

Do you like to know more on Government of India's schemes? It is on the finger tips. https://www.india.gov.in/

The Sea of Life

Harikrishnan S. Menon

There I lay floating in the Red sea Nothing but the howling wind and me. Fool, said the wind, bringing a tear in the sail, And I went twisting and turning, Like a dog chasing it's tail.

You couldn't have done it ,never have sailed, Now look at you, your mast derailed. Your floor boards creaked, your rudder needs repair, Look at your keel, holding a weight it cannot bear, Now turn back, before your hull also cracks, Turning you into nothing but debris, Yet another victim, of the 'dead' sea.

You can't give up, said the little man inside me, The roaring waves didn't get to you, neither did the monsters of the sea, You'll outlive this too, l guarantee.

It took me a few days to stutter my rudder back to life, I finally decided, It was with the wind that I was in strife. With a final push, l bid the wind farewell, Reaching the shore, with yet another story to tell

नव उिदत ाण अभी मेरे

उ व की न कोई गूँज उठी

न िम ानो के ढेर लगे

न ढोलक की कोई थाप सुनी

अिभभावक शोकाकुल मेरे

पु र की इनको आस बड़ी

ष हवा म अब उठ रहा

िनदयी, िविच है माँ मेरी

जीवन का इतना सू प

न देखा एक इंसान कही

िवष का ाला पीना होगा

रा स पी मानव सभी

अ ाय ये ा भु दश

या दय ए दयाहीन, मिह

पोटली म दफन, फका मुझे

शवया ा, तक न िनकली मेरी

ममता को घोर कलंिकत कर

माँ तू कैसे थी मूक खड़ी

ये पाप न ो रोका तूने

चार माह म तेरी कोख पली

आ ा म तो िफर ई अमर

ई र से क ये रार बुझी

बना क ा ा ाप िदया ?

जब पु इ ा ही बल खड़ी

हे ईश ! मेरा

The importance of HPV vaccine: Prevention of cervical cancer

The human papilloma virus is a small DNA virus, very commonly transmitted sexually. There are 200 different strains of the virus commonly divided into low risk often causing warts and small lesions and high risk that can cause precancerous and cancerous lesions.

These lesions are mainly seen in the genital region, but also seen in hands, fingers, feet, face, neck areas and even inside the mouth and throat.

This virus is often deadly as the cancer it causes doesn’t have any symptoms in the early stages and presents very late. More than 74,000 people die of cervical cancer in India each year making it the leading cancer in Indian women and 2nd most common worldwide in women, killing more than 2.8 lakh women yearly.

What if I told you that this deadly cancer can be prevented?

Yes, there are several methods of prevention but taking the HPV vaccine is proven to prevent more than 90% cases of cervical cancers and 99-100% efficacy against genital warts, making it the most effective option. But why haven’t you heard about such a wonderful vaccine earlier? This question haunted me as well, and to simply put, unawareness and a lot of misinformation regard vaccines.

So only females need this vaccine?

No, as mentioned earlier HPV can cause cancers of cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, mouth or throat. So everyone should vaccinate against it.

How and when should I get the vaccine?

Anyone of ages 9 to 45 can get the vaccine. If below 13 years, 2 doses and all others 3 doses at 0, 1 month and at 6 month.

It works best if given prior to sexual exposure but works even if given after.

What is the vaccine called?

There are 2 vaccines licensed globally which are available in IndiaGardasil quadrivalent, now also available as Gardasil 9 (against 9 strains) Cervarix bivalent

0.5ml is given as an intramuscular injection on either upper arm or thigh. An Indian vaccine is almost at step of marketing under the name Cervavac.

What is the cost and where will I get it from?

The cost ranges from 2000-10,000 rupees per dose. Please don’t shy away thinking about the cost, as I can assure you cancer treatments are much worse.

It is available in almost all private hospitals and many government hospitals as well. You need to ask your consulting doctor and they will arrange it.

What about side effects from the vaccine?

Nothing to worry about. Very few side effects have been reported and most of them are mild swelling, redness or fever that subsides in a few days. No major side effects have been reported. It is not given in those who are allergic or those who have a fever or infection. It can be taken once the fever subsides.

After the vaccine, am I cancer proof?

Even though the vaccine is protective, regular screening has to be done for cervical cancer. Screening starts at 21 years of age done every 3-5 years stopped at 65 years of age. Spreading awareness and speaking up about cervical cancer and HPV will have a huge impact in our community and hence I urge you to take the first step today.

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We are a family of four, We love each other to the core We laugh and play together, Let love and joy be in our home forever Thank you God for everything!!!

Swasti Raghavendra Rao

4A, ICSK Amman Kuwait

By Ramya Elayadath

mahatma gandhi-a teacher for humanity

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when we take the name of “Mahatma Gandhi”? Is it Father of the nation, a passionate freedom fighter, architect of the satyagraha movemen or anything else!? Well. Definitely the first thing that we would associate him is with the word ‘a teacher’. It is a fact that he was not a teacher in the academic sense. However, his way of life was a teaching in itself to humanity. He truly said, “My life, my message”.

What was the message? What did he teach us? Amongst all the others, his simplest teaching was about the humanity. It is nothing but to have faith, to love and be tolerant.

These virtues are always attacked by war or genocide or political oppression, but he met those intolerant acts with determination and courage. The success of the satyagraha movement proved how Mahatma Gandhiji’s belief in non-violence along with his courage could help India much more than most of us could imagine. It is this kind of courageous, sacrificing humanity that the world badly needs today.

As youngster who will make or break this world tomorrow, let us follow our dear Gandhiji’s teachings. Let’s give kindness, honesty, truth and benevolence to other humans not only because they deserve it, but because we have it.

It is inside us and it defines us and makes us beautiful human beings. I would like to conclude by quoting Mahatma Gandhiji himself who said “The greatness of humanity is not in being human, but in being humane.

I SO 9001:2008

SBCGeneralTradingandContractingCo.,W.L.L.(SBC)was establishedinthestateofKuwaitin2005andregistered intheKuwaitChamberofCommerceNo.110508to providecontractingandsub-contractingworkfor mechanical,civil,electricalandinstrumentationworksas wellasgeneraltradingwork.

SERVICES:

 Engineering

 Procurement

 Construction

 Operation & Maintenance

 Refinery Turnaround

 Tanks Maintenance Management

 Commissioning & Warranty service

 Fabrication & Installation of Piping

 Fabrication of Package Equipment

 Equipment Erection

 Design, Engineering, Fabrication & Erection of Storage Tanks

 Fabrication & Erection of Steel Structures

 Industrial Coating & Painting

 General Refinery Maintenance

 Area/Infrastructure development incl. Temporary facility works

India celebrated its 74th Republic Day, on 26 January 2023, which witnessed many firsts. The venue itself, the Karthavya Path hosted it for the first time after the renovation and the much-needed renaming to reflect the values that India demonstrate. India showcased only indigenous arms by lining up Brahmos missiles, Akash air defense system and their tank Arjun. The Nari-Shakthi, the empowerment of women in India is demonstrated by women officers leading their troops on the parade for the first time. All of these leave a clear indication of the path that India is marching towards and being a Pravasi (Non-Resident Indian), it was a proud moment for us as an Indian.

The last century was the era of manufacturing industries and global trades. India could not leverage much during this period. As the west complain, Did India really miss the bus? I would agree with Dr. Tharoor when he said, “India missed the bus, because the British threw us under the wheels”. Obviously, the priorities were different when the republic was young and as diverse as India. However, the foreign, economic and domestic policies derailed the desperate attempts to catchup with the rest of the world.

In the late 90’s the world started to hear a different story from India. The revived economic policies, bold stands against the conventional norms, leading with the nuclear tests in Pokhran despite of the sanctions from the west and so on. The 21st century started on a promising note, with India climbing up to the vantage point; thanks to Information Technology and e-Business. The confused policies contributed by the coalition governments and the global recession kept India on check from its growth prospects. The same experts who promised the 21st century to India, started raising the eyebrows. Can the Elephant Dance?

The recipe was not a secret, but it required a mission to achieve, considering the size and complexity. As they say, a special mission needs a special team. That happened in 2014, when a very special team took charge of the country. Though, the western influenced media houses were criticizing of a policy paralysis, they deliberately eclipsed the fundamental development that happened throughout the length and breadth of India. The improvement in transportation network, digitization, statutory processes, women empowerment, cleanliness mission, energy supply are just a few from the list. The commendable success in building diplomatic consensus among neighbors and other strategic partners was another key achievement during this period.

The policy of disinvestment in public sector undertaking,

announced that the government is not here to do business but to enable innovative business firms and startups by ensuring transparent governance, a level playing field, necessary aid, faster compliance process and approvals. The investment is focused on developing the infrastructure; the power, bridges, highways, dams, townships and housing which are the backbones of any developing economy.

The soft power is a major driving factor for advancing in geopolitics. India is blessed with its long history, cultural heritage, art, cuisine and the geography. The honorable prime minister and his team makes a conscious effort to promote yoga, ayurveda, Bollywood, indigenous music, fashion and touristic attractions through their missions around the world and during their bilateral meetings. While the ‘Viswaguru’ phrase denotes the intellectual capacity of India, the programs like ‘Vaccine Maitri’ demonstrates the humanitarian values and the capabilities of delivering aid in volume across the world in a speedy manner.

India has already the 5th largest economy in the world, by surpassing UK last year; with current growth rate, it is predicted to be the 3rd by 2030. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted India as the fastest growing major economy yet again for the year 2023 with 6.8% GDP rise amid the slow down, where the global growth is estimated to be under 2.9%. The year 2023 is very special for India at the global stage as India presides over the G20, which represents two-thirds of world’s population, 90% of the global GDP and 80% of the global trade. As the G20 president, though it is a tough task ahead with the current global diplomatic crisis, it is an opportunity for India to spread its idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, ‘one earth, one family, one future’ and make this place a better one for all. In addition to this, India has a major role to play in the region as well, as India holds the presidency of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) too. New Delhi will be the capital of global diplomacy this year, and it is the responsibility of each and every Indian to be the ambassador by upholding the right spirits of India around the world. Yes, the Elephant can dance and is dancing on the global floor. Let’s be proud but be responsible too.

Jai

Hind, Jai Bharath. Abhilash Menacheril

The Rise in School Refusal and Chronic Absenteeism Among Students post COVID-19 lockdown

ANUPAMA D. KUMAR

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted many aspects of our life, notably - our physical and physiological health, as well as our economic, social, and mental well-being. One of the most fundamental service sectors that was overturned by the pandemic was the education sector.

By the beginning of the year 2021, around 1.725 billion students were affected by the school closures (Nandi, A., 2021). School refusal is the term used to describe the absence brought on by behaviours that are typically signs of an underlying anxiety disorder or any other psychiatric condition. (Dalton, J & Bacon, V, 2018).

Despite many difficulties involved, treatment for individuals who have trouble going to school can be effective in helping them resume consistent attendance.

Best practices for students exhibiting School refusal

Early return to school is the main treatment objective for kids who refuse to go to school. Physicians should refrain from providing medical excuses for absences from school, unless a child's health requires it. Family dysfunction, underlying issues, and comorbid psychiatric issues should all be addressed throughout treatment. Given the fact that children who refuse to attend school frequently exhibit physical symptoms, the physician may need to clarify that the issue is actually a symptom of psychological distress rather than a physical condition. The doctor, the student, the parents, the faculty at the school, and a mental health specialist should work together in a multimodal, collaborative team.

The following are some initial steps we may take to

start working on the objective of treating School refusal behaviour in children:

Ask your child and listen to them intently: Find out, by talking to your child, what is the reason that’s stopping them from attending school. Meet with their school teachers and let them know if they’re facing issues in the classroom such as mental health concerns, bullying, learning difficulties etc. Make sure you understand what they are actually concerned about, and ask them what they would like to do in order to tackle the problem. Enquire if there is a psychologist, counsellor or a support staff who can help your child.

Help your child feel connected: Sometimes, the reasons for students to refuse going to school may simply be because they don’t feel connected or included with their surroundings. Make sure to speak to the student’s teachers and see to it that they get to participate in peer activities equally.

Encourage and help your child to make the best out of their classes: It might be challenging to determine whether parenting techniques actually support learning in the high-stakes, highpressure game of school. A positive educational experience involves more than just grades. Your child should ideally learn how to comprehend, remember information, think critically, ask questions, and gain a growing sense of competence.

Additionally, you must also encourage habits such as letting them set their uniform or outfits to school the day before, packing their books and prepping their tiffin/lunch box, helping them with their homework and building skills that help them interact with their school’s surroundings freely.

Once upon a time in a village, there lived a very rich man. One day, he called his Manager and asked him, can you tell me how much wealth do I have? . The manager returned the next day and said; Sir, you have a lot of wealth, so much that you can happily spend the next 500 years without working. This made the rich man very happy, but the very next moment a thought came to his mind…what will my family do after 500 years, after all my wealth is over??

This thought kept disturbing him day and night and made him very sad. After few days, he came across a very famous saint.

He decided to share his problem with the saint. He invited the saint home and after offering him lunch he told him about his worry. The saint smiled and said, in the next lane there is a poor old lady. Go to her hut and give her half Kg of wheat flour. The rich man goes to the poor lady’s hut and offers the wheat flour. The poor lady refused to take it saying, No Sir, I don’t take anything for free from others. I work hard for my living. Today God has given me food, clothes and a shed to live happily. I am sure he will take care of me tomorrow as well. The poor lady’s answer opened the rich man’s eyes. He got the answer to his worry. He said to himself, I have so much of wealth that will last for 500 years but still I am worried and unhappy and this poor lady has nothing but yet so happy and contented. This made a huge impact on the rich man and thereafter he decided to live life happily.

The moral of the story is, ‘We should practice ‘ceiling on desires’. Also, we should count your blessings and live the moment to the fullest! We should keep faith in God, believe in Him like the old lady in the story.

glimpses of india-kuwait relationship

S. Riyasri Grade 6

India and Kuwait enjoy traditionally friendly relations rooted in history and have stood the test of time. India has been a national trading partner of Kuwait and until 1961. Indian Rupee was legal tender in Kuwait. Some of the key moments are:

• Shri. V. Muraleedharan (Minister of external and parliamentary affairs) and minister of state for economic affairs of Kuwait and Deputy foreign minister held bilateral talk on 14-15 September 2019. This was the first high level bilateral visit since November 13.

• During last two years, Indian EPC companies viz. Larsen and Toubro, Shapoorji Pallonji, Punj Lloyd, Simplex projects, Essar, Kalpataru etc. were awarded EPC contracts worth over US$6 billion in Kuwait.

• A “Festival of India in Kuwait” was held in Kuwait in 2009. Exclusive programme for cultural and information exchanges [2013-2016] was signed in 2013.

• The embassy organized Hindi Diwas celebrations and 4th Dinkar poetry awards in September 2017; and Hindi Diwas 2019 with participation from Indian school in Kuwait.

• There are over 70 Indian associations registered with the embassy. The associations organize socio-cultural program regularly for the benefit of their members.

Kuwait

Aashna Ram

Niranjana Binu

S Jain

Joshua M

Advay Bora

Malavika Dijesh

Manav

Keshav Naveen Gopal

Riddhima Bora

Srushti Rao

Karthik Vinod Kumar

Meenakshi

Vinayak Vinod Kumar

India is a diverse country and we Indians have faced lot of struggles to reach the stage were we are today. For more than 400 years we were under the people who enslaved us but now we are flying high like a phoenix. How did they make it happen and what we should do for the betterment of our country?

Let’s find it out.

During the ancient times , people from other parts of the world came to India to live, work and admire it’s natural and architectural beauty. Normally we Indians reason out that the first civilization in India was the Indus Valley Civilization. But there are evidences that there was a civilization in India at the same area which was much before the Harappan era. And the Indus Valley Civilization is itself a wrong name as recently archeological sites have been found in Balochistan (Pakistan), a village named Shortugai near Oxus river (Iran) which was earlier a city of Harappan style during the era and Alamgirpur and Ramgarh in Uttar Pradesh (India). It was the largest civilization of it’s time, spanning 1500 sq. kilometres and spanning four huge and highly populated countries. So our dear India was shining well before the rest of the world had made themselves civilized. We had metal workers and steel plants that produced the best steel in the world (Wootz steel) and had ironsmiths who processed out the best quality of Iron. We had two of the best universities in the world(Nalanda and Takshashila) in which students came from places as far as Japan to study. Our country was then and is still a blessed country to have one of the most fertile soils in the world and a variety of different climates and weather systems, due to which we can literally grow any new crop in India. Even though when our country was invaded several times (approx. more than 50 times) and faced almost 250 years of oppressive colonial rule which was very harsh

Adithya Sanju Raj

and which burned our spirits, we still were able to cope up to it and within 75 years we were able to grow so fast that it astonished the entire world.

The policies and decisions taken especially during these 8 years is really interesting and important as it has really boosted us to the next level. Now in the global stage, no decision can be taken by avoiding India from it. During these 8 years, India had been an important player in Global Politics and welfare. Since the economic liberalization in 1991, there have been a lot of improvements in our economy and the standard of living of the people. But during the year 2013-2014, our country’s economy tanked and unemployment increased drastically. But after the inauguration of that year’s new government, by the year 2014-2015, our economy was revived and growth rate started skyrocketing to a whopping 8 % per year, making India the second fastest growing country in the world. New infrastructural facilities, updated telecommunications and stabilized trade flow is taking the country to new heights. In political ways, democracy has been strengthened and judiciary was made independent and powerful. Education systems have improved a lot and literacy rate has increased during the last 75 years. But this is not enough. We should have a higher goal of becoming one of the superpowers or the main superpower of the world in the near future, something which we were for more than 2000 years. Therefore, it is “We” who should take up the initiative and go on strengthening our motherland.

JAI HIND

Save Earth for a Better Tomorrow

Earth, the blue planet has been providing food, shelter, etc. to all the living things. However, the humans have been exploiting these provisions for their personal betterment, forgetting the value of life of others organisms and future generations. This has caused many issues in the environment such as, mass extinction of important species, melting of ice caps due to increase in temperature as a result of global warming, etc.

In the past few years, many governments and world organisations such as the United Nations have stepped in to raise awareness among the public about the various issues around the planet due to over-exploitation and non-sustainable lifestyle. Although these programs seem to be a good idea for making people understand the magnitude of the problems, many people remain unbothered and do not try to be responsible citizens. They use more than what they need and do not utilise the things that is enough to meet their necessities. Everyone forget to remember that resources accessible to the world is not to be used up completely. We must think for the generations to come as well. On the contrary, in the recent years, there is an increase in the use of green fuels as a substitute to petroleum which is extracted from fossil fuels. Nevertheless, statistics show that building an electric car has a higher effect on net carbon emissions as compared to fuel cars. Although in long term, electric cars are eco-friendlier, it is not a big leap in the carbon free goal.

To sum up, these issues can be easily tackled by planting trees; and by using water and other natural resources without wasting them. We can meet our own needs without compromising the future generations’ need for the them. Thus, by following the guidelines of the United Nations and other credible world organisations, we can save our beloved earth for a better tomorrow.

Sushruth Surendran

Class 11

Indian Educational School, Kuwait

Yesterday I was a cloud,today I am rain

Yesterday I was a sapling, today I am a tree

Yesterday I was a forest, today I am a building

Yesterday I was the life saving earth,today I am a wasteland

Yesterday I was a majestic tree,today I am cut down

Yesterday I was the enormous sea,today I am dried up

Yesterday I was nutritious soil,today I am weathered and eroded

Yesterday I was Mother Nature,today I am a scorned mother

Yesterday I died but today,today I live I live to save the earth and Mother Nature

Kuwait - A home in the true sense

As we travelled to Kuwait as a newlywed, where my husband was to take up a job opportunity in Kuwait Oil Company, one of reputed oil companies of the world, little did I know that Kuwait would become my home for the next 15 years. A place where both my kids were born, a place where I made my small little world, a place I miss whenever I go for vacation. I belong to Assam, a northeastern state of India, which is so rich in flora and fauna, and world famous for its one horn rhino, the mighty Brahmaputra and its tea and silk. I was raised as one with nature as my mother is very fond of gardening. She would ensure that one sabzi every day was made entirely of produce grown in our garden. My mother would grow varieties of fruits or vegetables and even now with age, she has not stopped doing it. I grew up helping mom in her gardening activities. I was married to a family that has plants all around the house and my mother-in-law is an ardent plant lover like me and grows different types of vegetables.

I never thought that I would be able to grow any vegetable here in Kuwait. I imagined it to be a dry land full of desert areas but my perspective changed immediately as I was surprisingly happy to see lot of greenery as I drove from the airport to our apartment. New place, new people, new neighbors -so many apprehensions. Infact the entire building was occupied by people working in KOC. All were new to Kuwait and we had lot of official work to complete. We used to go out together, do the work together. I started making friends and even today after 15 years, though we had shifted to different apartments we are in touch and we can blindly trust and depend on each other. Though I had made friends for life, I was terribly missing my gardening. I was not sure of its success but decided to give it a try. I did not want to buy any seed from nursery but used seeds from fruits and vegetables that we eat at home. I first started with chilly and capsicum. When I was successful in growing them, the desire to try some other vegetable grew. Each time I successfully grew one plant, it motivated me to experiment more.

Slowly every year, I added more vegetables to my list. Today I am blessed and happy to have potatoes, tomatoes, capsicum, chilly, broccolis, cauliflowers, corns, peas, radish, turnips, beetroots, zucchini, coriander, mint, bitter gourd, bottle gourd, pumpkin, eggplants,carrots , spring onions, onions, garlic, ginger, beans , mustard, sweet potato, microgreens, lettuce, avocados, sorghum in my garden. The vegetables and fruits peel from my kitchen daily goes directly to my garden. I do not use any fertilizer from the market. The joy of picking something and eating it right away without worrying about insecticides or preservative sprays is unbelievable. A big part of organic gardening is using compost, and making your own homemade compost is the best thing to do. Nothing gives you more pleasure then seeing the kitchen scraps turn into beautiful dark fertilizer, which keeps plants happy all season long. The result is amazing. Gardening is a gratifying experience and people are sure to get hooked by it. All they need is to give it a try and I am sure after that they will become extremely passionate about gardening. Patience and dedication is an integral part to have a beautiful bountiful garden.

Today I live in Kuwait, growing my own garden, living a safe carefree comfortable life. For me, its sheer joy to care for the plants and watch it grow. The happiness you feel when you see a plant sprouting can never be put into words. My kids actively take part in my gardening activities and its sheer pleasure to see their happiness when they pluck a ripe tomato or dug out potatoes. It is very important to teach our kids how food is produce so that they understand the love, labour behind it and never waste them. Though far away from my motherland, I am able to do it in Kuwait, what more could I ask for. Kuwait is

a home in the true sense.

About the author- Parimita Barooah Bora is a teacher, blogger, you tuber , artist, entrepreneur , freelance writer and mother who loves to juggle her multiple roles . She enjoys sharing experiences of life as freelance contributor to various newspapers, magazines and websites. Member of IWIK Team.

Parimita Barooah Bora Kuwait

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Preeti

Warm

to you all!

Last few days ago we came across a very inspiring story narrated by a famous motivational speaker and renowned professor. He shared his experience about visiting a place in USA, called Sequoias. He was thrilled to enter a vast forest area and how it was conserved and they retained the natural beauty of the place. There he saw this magnificent giant tree which was named after ‘General Sherman’. General Sherman tree is the world’s largest tree, 275 feet tall and 36 feet diameter. It is estimated to be more than 2000 years old. He was so fascinated about the tree that he couldn’t get it out of his mind. After a week when it was time for him to return back to India, he received a very nicely packed gift box. He was asked to open his gift and was even more thrilled to receive a Bonsai tree. His happiness did not last for long as there was a big list of things to be taken care of as part of the maintenance of this bonsai tree.

He finally decided to return back the gift as he was a very simple yet a busy man and couldn’t spare the time to look after this delicate Bonsai tree. This part of the story he touched upon was very deeply rooted in my mind. He compared the General Sherman Tree which was tall and erect, strong and self-sufficient. It grew in a natural environment and has no additional maintenance and yet survived for more than 2000 years. It gave shelter to many birds, let out fresh air and was an absolute treat to the eyes.

On the contrary, this Bonsai tree which was a miniature version of the actual tree served only as a show piece with a lot of maintenance. A Bonsai Tree is actually a sapling of the original tree, its growth is curtailed by cutting off its branches in regular intervals. Also, growth and life of the Bonsai tree was very much dependent on the owner or the care taker.

After listening to this, a deep thought provoking message came to my mind; ‘Our children are very much like these saplings!. But imagine forcing every bud to open on the exact same date because of a somewhat arbitrary decision that all flowers should bloom exactly then. We are left with more harm than help. It’s the defeated child equivalent of a withered, wrinkly, forced bloom. We interrupted them in their season of growth, and stopped them from doing what they were meant to do, when they were meant to do it. Anxiety, comparison, and competition encouraged us to force open the bloom rather than nourish the roots and stems, building the critical, foundational skills when they were needed. Children need to be allowed to bloom in season, just as flowers are. This doesn’t mean we do nothing however. There’s a big difference between feeding the plant and forcing the bloom.

We as parents have to ensure they are given a supportive ‘Nutrient- dense Environments’ to flourish and become like a General Sherman Tree, strong from within, self-sufficient, deeply rooted and make them a better human beings to serve the society and not like a Bonsai tree, delicate and dependent on others for sustenance.

greetings

general sherman tree vs the bonsai tree

Madhura Raghavendra Rao Kuwait