Category: 👉News – In Spotlight 📰

As Valentine’s Day approaches, let’s not only celebrate love but also express our affection for the environment. This February 14th, take an adventure towards making sustainable decisions whereby you can save more while at the same time giving back something that will make the county a green and healthy abode.

Somerset Council leads the way in ecological celebrations, requesting everyone to avoid single-use products and overdone packing. The purpose is to encourage a more environmentally friendly way of celebrating Valentine’s Day, loving your sweetheart and Earth.

Find Green Valentine’s Day Ideas:

1. Eco-Friendly Greeting Cards
2. Recycle Empty Bottles
3. Bypass Over-Packaged Gifts
4. Gift thoughtfully
5. Plant a Rose Bush
6. Cook a Low-Waste Meal

Here are some tips to ensure your Valentine’s Day is not just romantic but also environmentally responsible:

1. Eco-Friendly Greeting Cards:
   Look for cards that are Forest Council-certified or made of recycled materials. Better still, tap your creativity to make a card right at home. Make sure cards are properly disposed of through the curbside cardboard collection service.
2. Recycle Empty Bottles:
   When you are raising a bottle to love, ensure that the glass container is recycled. Pop the empty bottles in the green box for recycling as your contribution, ensuring that some good is being done regarding sustainability, even at the county level.
3. Bypass Over-Packaged Gifts:
   Say no to packages packaged in several layers of plastic or suffocating covers. Select retailers who place content above the overproduction of packaging. This not only saves you money, but it also conforms to the promise of waste minimization.
4. Gift thoughtfully:
   Think about offering a recycled or handmade gift or membership for the whole group of people. One can share many moments with your darling couples, such as spa days and cooking courses. Preferring lessons over purchasing material possessions preserves memories and reduces the ecological footprint.
5. Plant a Rose Bush:
   Rather than a bouquet that passes in time, give roses that are to be planted—an expression of enduring affection. If you do choose to go the traditional route with a bouquet, ensure proper disposal through composting.
6. Cook a Low-Waste Meal:
   Why not make a wonderful meal of what is already in your kitchen cupboards? To get inspired, head to https://www.youtube.com/, where you will see several low-waste recipes and tips for creating a great feast without suffering from unnecessary food waste.

Dixie Darch, a councillor who also serves as the Executive Lead Member for Climate and Environment at Somerset Council, says:

“Planning ahead can help to reduce costs and protect the environment. When celebrating, we want to encourage everyone to think green.

“Choosing to avoid packaging can be a great way to reduce waste, showing your love for Somerset and your valentine.”

Throughout my life, I have been inspired by many women, and one of them is Lata Mangeshkar ji, popularly known as India’s Swar Nightingale – Lata Didi.

A stupendous example she was that if you put in genuine effort and dedication to something, you will be rewarded with success, no matter how many challenges you face.

She parted ways with this world at the age of 92 on February 6 in the year 2022, but even today after 2 years she is still alive in the form of beautiful songs and the heart of millions of admirers. The Nightingale of India is more than just a playback singer; she is the pride of the country.

Even our prime minister Narender Modi missed her presence at the big event of ‘Pran Pratishtha’ at Ayodhya Ram Temple on January 22. PM Modi wrote on social media site X, “As the nation awaits 22nd January with great enthusiasm, one of the people who will be missed is our beloved Lata Didi. Here is a Shlok she has sung. Her family told me that it was the last Shlok she recorded. #ShriRamBhajan.”

As the nation awaits 22nd January with great enthusiasm, one of the people who will be missed is our beloved Lata Didi.

Here is a Shlok she sung. Her family told me that it was the last Shlok she recorded. #ShriRamBhajanhttps://t.co/MHlliiABVX

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 17, 2024

Today, I would like to pay tribute to Swara Kokila, as well as my inspiration with a list of her 30 songs that are close to my heart and help me relax.

30 Solo Songs – Lata Mangeshkar

Aaja Re Pardesi – Madhumati (1958)

Ajib Dastan Hai Yeh – Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai (1960)

Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya – Mughal-E-Azam (1960)

Ajeeb Dastan Hai Yeh – Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai (1960)

Aap Ki Nazron Ne Samjha – Anpadh (1962)

Aap Ki Nazron Ne Samjha – Anpadh (1962)

Lag Ja Gale Se Phir – Woh Kaun Thi (1964)

Piya Tose Naina Laage Re – Guide (1965)

Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai – Guide (1965)

Mera Saaya Saath Hoga – Mera Saaya (1966)

Aapke Haseen Rukh Pe – Baharen Phir Bhi Aayengi (1966)

Bindiya Chamkegi – Do Raaste (1969)

Bahon Mein Chale Aao – Anamika (1973)

Tere Bina Zindagi Se – Aandhi (1975)

Tum Aa Gaye Ho Noor Aa Gaya Hai – Aandhi (1975)

Tere Bina Jiya Jaye Naa – Ghar (1978)

Dil To Hai Dil – Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978)

Aajkal Paon Zaamin Par Nahin Padte – Ghar (1978)

Sheesha Ho Ya Dil Ho – Aasha (1980)

Yeh Kahan Aa Gaye Hum – Silsila (1981)

Tune O Rangeele – Kudrat (1981)

Yeh Galiyan Yeh Chaubara – Prem Rog (1982)

Aye-Dil-E-Nadan – Razia Sultan (1983)

Tujhse Naraz Nahin Zindagi – Masoom (1983)

Sun Sahiba Sun – Ram Teri Ganga Maili (1985)

Yara Seeli Seeli– Lekin (1991)

Maye Ni Maye – Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994)

Mere Khwabon Mein – Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)

Rangeela Re – Rangeela (1995)

Lodi – Veer-Zaara (2014)

Saugandh Mujhe Iss Mitti Ki – (2019)

Lata Didi will always be an example and source of pride for our country and me because her soulful music will always be a part of our hearts.

Listen and Enjoy!!!

Regarding the Union Budget, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1st, at 11 a.m., there are great hopes that an effective gender-centric approach will be implemented. This is because this is the election year.

In its most basic form, gender budgeting is a technique that focuses on how public resources are gathered and spent to establish equality between men and women.

As Prime Minister Nirmala Sitharaman delivered the Interim Budget 2024, the entire nation will be keeping a close eye on the government’s measures to guarantee that women are treated as equal stakeholders in India’s growth story.

This is what women may anticipate from the budget for the year 2024.

Lakhpati Didi Scheme

FM Sitharaman announced that the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi will boost the target number of women who will benefit from the Lakhpati Didi Scheme to three crore women.

During the interim budget for the next fiscal year beginning April 1, 2024, Sitharaman stated that 83 lakh Self-Help groups, which are nine crore women, are reshaping the socio-economic landscape of rural areas. These groups have already supported nearly one crore women in becoming Lakhpati didis.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

In addition, Sitharaman detailed the prior initiatives that the Modi government has undertaken for women while simultaneously praising the participation of Indian women in the workforce and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) -)-related fields of study.

Over the past decade, there has been a 28% increase in the number of women enrolling in higher education. In STEM courses, girls and women make up 43% of the enrollment, which is one of the highest percentages in the world.

The growing number of women actively participating in the labour force is a direct result of all of these efforts. By making triple talaq illegal, reserving one-third of seats in Parliament and state assemblies for women, and providing more than 70% of dwellings to women through the Prime Minister’s Awas Yojana, the Minister of Finance stated that women’s dignity has been increased.

Empowering Young Women with Cervical Cancer

The Minister of Finance announced that the government would support vaccinations against cervical cancer for young women between the ages of 9 and 14.

She stated, “Our government will encourage vaccination for girls in the age group of 9 to 14 years for the purpose of providing prevention of cervical cancer.”

Earlier, researchers hit a dead end in their studies on HPV vaccinations (human papillomaviruses) aimed at preventing cervical cancer. Controversy surrounded the trials in 2010 as reports emerged of girls dying after receiving an HPV vaccination.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common form of cancer in women worldwide, behind breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer, respectively.

Comprehensive Medical Coverage for ASHA Employees

In addition, the government has made it possible for all ASHA employees to receive medical coverage through the Ayushman Bharat programme. She stated that all employees and assistants of ASHA and Anganwadi will receive health coverage under the Ayushman Bharat initiative.

Economic Women Empowerment

The budget, that was presented before this one, Sitharaman placed a strong emphasis on the economic empowerment of women. She envisioned the transformation of self-help groups (SHGs) into viable income-generating producer organisations and sustainable women’s businesses.

As with many unicorn startups, the budget announced support for raw material supply, product design, quality, branding, and marketing. This will enable them to scale up their operations to service vast consumer markets.

As more women entered the workforce, there was excitement about addressing their biggest challenges. The second quarter of fiscal year 24 saw the female labour market participation rate rise to 24%, indicating a positive trend.

Mahila Samman Saving Certificate

A ‘Mahila Samman Saving Certificate’ was announced in Sitharaman’s 2023 budget. This certificate would have a set interest rate of 7.5% for two years. One option for making the deposit is to do it in the name of a female or girl child. This savings scheme allowed for partial withdrawals in addition to having a maximum deposit amount of 2 lakh rupees, which was maintained at that level.

It was anticipated that the budget would address gender parity and implement programmes that would work to improve the lives of women in India.

This is to cater to the needs of women in the Bharat Kaal.

Let’s take it as a sign, as Sitharaman stated in her interim Budget 2024 speech, “We need to focus on – Garib, Mahilayen, Yuva, and Annadata; their needs and aspirations are our highest priorities.”

Google Doodle honors the Indian biochemist Kamala Sohonie on her 112th birthday. | Photo Credit: Google Doodle

The recent Google Doodle featuring Kamala Sohonie and C.V. Raman has certainly captured the attention of many, highlighting their significant contributions to the world of science. In this article, we will explore the accomplishments and legacies of these exceptional individuals, shedding light on their invaluable contributions and their influence on scientific advancement.

Kamala Sohonie: Pioneering Biochemist

Kamala Sohonie, an eminent Indian biochemist, was the first woman to receive a PhD in science in British India. She accomplished this feat at a time when opportunities for women in academia were scarce. Sohonie’s groundbreaking research focused on the biochemistry of protein digestion, paving the way for advancements in the understanding of enzyme kinetics and digestive processes. Her work not only contributed to the field of biochemistry but also inspired future generations of female scientists in India.

C.V. Raman: Renowned Physicist and Nobel Laureate

C.V. Raman, one of India’s most eminent scientists, made groundbreaking contributions to the field of physics. His discovery of the scattering of light, now known as the “Raman Effect,” earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, making him the first non-white Asian to receive this prestigious honour. Raman’s pioneering research not only advanced our understanding of the behaviour of light but also laid the foundation for various applications in diverse fields such as chemistry, biology, and material science.

The Google Doodle celebration on the same topic effectively communicates the importance of their scientific contributions and the lasting impact they have had on their field. 

Check this out:

Tweet link: https://twitter.com/GoogleDoodles/status/1670234883694768128?s=20

Legacy and Impact:

The legacies of Kamala Sohonie and C.V. Raman extend beyond their individual accomplishments. They shattered societal barriers and paved the way for future generations of scientists, especially women, to pursue their passion for scientific inquiry. Their achievements serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the immense potential that lies within individuals who dare to challenge conventional norms.

Moreover, the recognition of these accomplished scientists through the Google Doodle serves as a powerful tool to educate and raise awareness about their contributions to science. It highlights their significance on a global platform, ensuring that their names and accomplishments are celebrated and remembered by a wide audience.

Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion in Science:

The inclusion of Kamala Sohonie and C.V. Raman in the Google Doodle showcases the importance of diversity and inclusion in the field of science. It serves as a reminder that scientific progress knows no boundaries and that individuals from all backgrounds have the potential to make groundbreaking discoveries.

Let’s Wrap It Up

The Google Doodle featuring Kamala Sohonie and C.V. Raman is a testament to their remarkable contributions to the scientific community. Their achievements have not only advanced our understanding of the world but also broken barriers, inspiring generations to come. By recognizing and celebrating these exceptional scientists, we honour their legacies and promote a more inclusive and diverse scientific landscape.

In a tale that captures the essence of resilience and the power of dreams, Maleesha Kharwa’s journey from the slums of Mumbai to becoming the face of a renowned beauty brand is an inspiration to all. 

Her story not only defies societal norms but also serves as a testament to the unbeatable spirit that can triumph over adversity. Maleesha’s rise to fame showcases the transformative potential within each of us, urging us to believe in our dreams and pursue them relentlessly.

Finding Beauty Amidst Adversity: 

Know Who’s Maleesha Kharwa

15 years old Maleesha’s story begins in the bustling slums of Mumbai, where poverty and limited opportunities are an everyday reality. Growing up in a challenging environment, she faced numerous obstacles that could have stifled her aspirations. 

Maleesha was ‘found’ by Hollywood star Robert Hoffman in Mumbai in 2020 when she was just 11 years old, while they were filming a music video. Later, he created a “GoFundMe” website and an Instagram account for Maleesha, which quickly racked up over 300,000 followers.

Viral video of Maleesha Kharwa

Later Her innate sense of style and presence caught the attention of local designers, who recognized her untapped potential. With their guidance and support, Maleesha began to hone her modelling skills, slowly paving her path towards a brighter future.

Breaking Barriers: An Iconic Collaboration

In April, a heartwarming video showcasing Maleesha’s reaction upon seeing her campaign photos at the luxury skincare brand’s store went viral. The video shared on Instagram, captured the pure delight on Maleesha’s face as she witnessed her dreams come to life. The brand’s accompanying caption beautifully stated, “Maleesha’s story is a beautiful reminder that dreams really do come true.” The video quickly gained immense popularity, amassing over 5 million views and more than 406,000 likes.

Maleesha’s journey has attracted attention beyond social media. She became the subject of a short film documentary titled “Live Your Fairytale,” directed by Jas Sagu and Arsala Qureishi. The documentary highlights Maleesha’s life, her bond with her father Mukesh, who works as a clown impersonator at children’s parties, and her relationship with her younger brother.

Maleesha, who graced the cover of a prominent fashion magazine, is a true inspiration for those who believe in the power of dreams and resilience. She went from living in a slum in Mumbai to becoming the ‘Slum Princess of India’. Maleesha’s simple yet charming personality, combined with her radiant good looks, has earned her numerous modelling assignments, including the latest one with Forest Essentials and The Yuvati Selection.