PUBLICATION

www.developingindiamirror.com Vol. 5, Issue 34, September 2019 | 100

Save Each Drop… Water is running out

From the UNI Chairman's Desk

India has witnessed a golden dawn & it is hoped that a bright day follows Dear readers, n the modern-day world, many countries are blessed allow the administration to function smoothly and we to have democratically-elected governments and pray that public servants shall realise the true meaning Ithe citizens of these nations take considerable of the term that describes them. pride in calling themselves “intellectually mature A heartening fact is that numerous sterling instances and civilised” as compared to other places where the are coming to light with regard to sensitiveness on part right of the populace to choose their rulers is not yet of the bureaucracy and it gladdens the soul when young a glorious reality. officers treat work as worship. Rights are always in tandem with responsibilities, in The judiciary has been playing the role of an fact the former standing by itself would be an invitation understanding family elder and must continue to to upsetting the balance permanently. A trepidation that step in where it feels the other two branches are not often haunts an electorate is a “hung” legislature where fulfilling their duties in letter and spirit. no single political party boasts a clear majority. Past Last, but certainly not the least, the common man. experience has revealed that such a situation invariably If he sits on the sidelines adopting a wait-and-watch translates into a wary dispensation that focuses more policy, India shall go nowhere. The commoner is the on its existence than on the work expected of it. catalyst – he must raise issues and awareness and make Now that India has just crossed the threshold the regime realise when it is straying from its path. into what clearly seems to be another half decade of It appears that India has witnessed a golden dawn governmental stability at the Centre, the time is ripe for and it is hoped that a bright day follows. all concerned to girdle up their loins and get down on As members of the Fourth Estate, my colleagues the ground for some real toil. It is hoped that a powerful in the magazine team maintain an eternal vigil and “central command” will lead to a boom time vis-a-vis bring before you every happening that is noteworthy. development – which has been the foremost item on Encourage us through your reactions to our output just the agenda of numerous politicians down the decades. as our advertisers never fail to spur us on by fuelling However, mere presence of the word development does our endeavours. not mean that we are well on our way to achieving it. The need of the hour is synergy – between the legislative, the executive and the judiciary. Few will Best wishes disagree that if these three colossal entities combine, they shall be a force to reckon with. India has welfare programmes aplenty – the requirement is smooth and Vishwas Tripathi rapid implementation. Political considerations apart, Chairman it is hoped and expected that the powers that be will UNI, Board of Directors

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 3 About

The United News of India founded in the year 1961, has in a period of five decades, consolidated and expanded to emerge as one of the leading news agencies of Asia and the developing World. Following are the important milestones in the eventful journey of UNI which has been revered as “Temple of News Agency Journalism”. *THE HUMBLE BEGINNING: UNI formally commenced operations on March 21, 1961 with just a five-man team. The company’s activities were confined to the national capital and its news dispatches distributed by bicycles to a handful of subscribers. *THE VISION: UNI came into existence due to the magnificent vision and awe- inspiring foresight of our late beloved Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru who favoured a twin-agency system in India for healthy competition and consequent high-quality news service news service besides avoiding single- agency monopoly that would prove near fatal for the Fourth Estate’s sanctity. *PRESENT STATUS: Today UNI has emerged as one of the largest entities of its kind in the developing world with several hundred subscribers across the length and breadth of the nation and even beyond its borders receiving UNI services via a satellite-based network and internet spread over 90,000 km. *THE CLIENTELE: The agency’s myriad subscribers include newspapers published in 14 languages. All India Radio and Doordarshan, the Prime Minister’s Office and Union Ministers workplaces, central and state governments, corporate and commercial houses, major hotels, airports, foreign missions and correspondents besides electronic media. *SUPPORT SYSTEMS: To maintain its rapid, accurate and incisive news services, UNI boasts the following cutting -edge support systems: reporters in over 300 places in India: representatives in several foreign countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Russia, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Singapore: branch offices in all Indian states; collaboration with Reuters and other international news agencies. *1980: UNI also made history and charted a new course when it utilised computers to process and analyse results of the 1980 general elections. *MAY 1, 1982: This date proved a golden milestone in the organisation’s history when UNI opened a fresh chapter in vernacular (Hindi) journalism by launching the Indian language news service-Univarta. UNICER. It opened a vista by giving Hindi newspaper a comprehensive package of national, international, regional, sports and commercial news for the first time in their language of publication. *MULTI-DIRECTIONAL GROWTH: Growth in UNI has been multi-directional. Horizontal growth has been achieved through launching of several sister services, which, while being trendsetters, aided the agency in the endeavour of widening its subscriber base by catering to specialised or semi-specialised clientele. *1987: UNI Pioneered a national news photo service in India in 1987 when it set up its photo service. Newspapers and magazines in different parts of the country as well as their counterparts abroad avail of the UNI photo service that is set to enter the digital age. UNI has an arrangement with Reuters and European Press photo Agency that deliver their complete photo files to UNI in hi-tech fashion via satellite. *MARCH 1991: UNI introduced an Infographic service to effectively cater to a long-felt need of print media. Nearly 250 graphics in English and Hindi recording the ascents and descents on the economic front -as well as major news events are issued every month. *THE URDU SERVICE: UNI is also the first news agency in the world to supply news in Urdu. The Urdu service was switched on by the then Prime Minister late P.V. Narasimha Rao on June 5, 1992. The service caters to newspapers, radio and television stations and government offices. Its ever-expanding network covers Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir. *The Kannada Service: UNI also launched country's first Kannada service in December 2018. Kannada language is not only spoken by the people in Karnataka but also neighbouring Southern states and there has been a long-felt need to have a wire service for Kannada newspapers and electronic media. The agency is stepping up its coverage from important regional centres and Karnataka being the IT knowledge hub of our country will receive our utmost attention in news coverage in its own Kannada language which has a rich history, literature and tradition.

4 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 From the UNI Editor's Desk

Plantation drive must be made part and parcel of everyday existence Dear Readers, aken for granted’ is an all-too-familiar It aches deep within when we observe well- expression; something that we oft hear heeled city-dwellers beating the heat in swimming ‘Twithin our humble homes and in a variety pools while media are replete with pictures of of situations including even high-level discussions our rural sisters trudging for miles just to fetch a between experts. pot full of water. This calls for an attitudinal shift Now, these words are generally restricted to and each and every one of us has to be part of the individuals – for example an annoyed spouse campaign. Schools, colleges, universities and offices telling his or her partner that he or she is being have to be simply bombarded with messages for taken for granted or a furious politician giving a conservation. When we can spend hours on social loud reply to a rival. media why cannot we send even a few meaningful However, can this expression be applied to a messages daily regarding such a crucial issue? Do non-living entity? Think, I am sure you won’t have not use showers, use buckets instead; do not shave to rack you brains to arrive at the simple conclusion with the water running, use mugs instead; do not – and maybe a startling realisation for many – that use swimming pools, plant saplings instead, etc. we are taking Mother Nature for granted. The plantation drive must be made part and Friends, when we hear that the next wars shall parcel of everyday existence. Let us do so in be fought over water, many of us like to dismiss the memory of our forefathers, let us give saplings warning as drama or sheer paranoia. After all, how planted by us the names of our teachers, spouses can water become so scarce? Well, we’re wrong. and children and care for these like we do for our Environmentalists have been crying themselves family. hoarse for years that the life-sustaining fluid is Let us not ignore a problem until it assumes rapidly transforming into a low-supply, high- the frightening form of an emergency standing demand thing and most of us are doing nothing on our doorstep. – absolutely nothing – to stop the gauges inching towards the danger mark. Let’s be clear that desalination is an expensive Best wishes option that very, very few nations can afford so don’t sit back in chairs thinking that most of the planet is covered with water so what’s the problem? That saline liquid is not going to help you survive Ashok Upadhyay even for an hour, that’s the problem. Editor

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 5 14 Water Management A complex issue

Cover Story SAVE EACH DROP… 06 WATER IS RUNNING OUT Content

Education Real Estate 18 This Budget will fulfill 20 Leaders In Real Estate: aspirations of all: The Design Of Cities And Their Pokhriyal Founders Of Tomorrow

Exclusive 25 People Buying behaviour Inspired by the Mahatma of customer has 24 changed 6 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 Tourism 38 Chhattisgarh tourism : A unique blend of nature, culture and Vol. 5, Issue 34, September 2019 religion Uni Board of Directors Vishwas Tripathi Business Chairman Sumeet Maheshwari 28 Direct Selling: a huge Director potential for self- Sagar Mukhopadhyay employment and Socio- Director Economic transformation of the country 44 Kokkarebellur: Ashok Upadhyay A village known for bird- Editor human relationship Editorial Advisory Board Ashok Upadhyay Tech Abdus Salam Asim 46 'Manovue' to replace Copy Editor centuries old 'Braille' Divya Joshi Kumar Feature Graphic Design & Consultant 30 Self-made ‘model’ Chandrajeet Kumar villages in remote Assam Business Coordinator Sumit Saxena Printed & Published by Ashok Upadhyay 50 Tata Workers’ Union begins on behalf of centenary year celebrations United News of India Sports Published at United News of India, 9, Rafi Marg, 52 Sports Science – key New Delhi-110001 weapon in MP’s arsenal Printed at Grover Printing Defence Entertainment Press 85, Khanna Market, Lodhi Colony, New Delhi- 110003. 34 Uttar Pradesh to host 54 Popular Assamese Phone: +91-11-24617065 Defence Expo in Feb mobile theatre staged in Editorial/Business/ next year Bengaluru Subscription Enquiry Phone: +91-11-23719393, 36 A captain inspired by 1969 was a Game Kargil 56 9899958494 Changing Year for the Email: [email protected] Hindi Film Industry

Disclaimer: All views expressed in this issue are that of the respective authors. The publisher may not agree with the independent views expressed in this magazine. All disputes are subjects to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Delhi only. Copyright: No content, text or image of this periodical is permissible for reproduction in any form, print or digital, without written consent to the Editor.

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 7 Cover Story

SAVE EACH DROP… WATER IS RUNNING OUT

8 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 By Vinay Kumar ne of the biggest challenges being faced by India today is Oan acute water crisis. Water scarcity and the need to conserve this precious life and energy-giving natural resource was the focus of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first episode of his popular “Mann Ki Baat’’ radio programme after assuming office in his second term. The Prime Minister drove home the message which centred on three crucial points -- people must help the State in its water conservation efforts, experts should share the knowledge of traditional methods of water conservation and there is no one-size fits-all method for conserving water. According to a United Nations report, water use has been increasing worldwide by about 1% per year since the 1980s, driven by a combination of population growth, socio- economic development and changing consumption patterns.

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 9 Cover Story

StatWaterlevele inof reservoirs thatW caterat to er Chennai's water needs

Cholavaram Aeri Redhills Full capacity Full capacity 1,081 mcft 3,300 mcft Status : Dry Status : Dry

Poondi Chembarambakkam Full capacity Lake 3,231 mcft Full capacity Status : 24 mcft 3,645 mcft Current Status : 1 mcft

WJust 10at countrieser accountl for 60%e ofss the world C populationount without accessr to cleanie waters 19.33% India 7.17% Ethiopia 7.05% 40.07% Nigeria Rest of the world 6.82% China 53.55% DRC 3.20% Indonesia 2.27% 2.56% 2.82% 3.16% Kenya Pakistan Uganda Tanzania

Global water demand is billion people live in countries change intensify. expected to continue increasing experiencing high water stress, The United Nations World at a similar rate until 2050, and about four billion people Water Development Report, accounting for an increase of experience severe water scarcity “Leaving No One Behind’’, 20 to 30% above the current during at least one month of the launched on March 19, 2019 level of water use, mainly due to year. Stress levels will continue during the 40th session of the rising demand in the industrial to increase as demand for water United Nations Human Rights and domestic sectors. Over two grows and the effects of climate Council (UNHRC), and in

10 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 monsoon rains were delayed. ‘Leaving no one behind’ is at the heart of the This crisis has been in the commitment of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable making for years. According to a Development, which aims to allow all people in all NITI Aayog report, 600 million Indians face high to extreme countries to benefit from socio-economic development water stress and about 200,000 and to achieve the full realization of human rights. people die every year because of inadequate access to safe water. conjunction to the World Water Fulfilment of the human rights In an editorial on the issue of Day, shows how improvements to water and sanitation requires water scarcity, the Hindustan in water resources management that the services be available, Times said while the Centre has and access to water supply and physically accessible, equitably announced the creation of Jal sanitation services are essential affordable, safe and culturally Shakti ministry to streamline to addressing various social and acceptable. water-related issues, it must act economic inequities, such that ‘Leaving no one behind’ is at on two other projects without ‘no one is left behind’ when it the heart of the commitment of delay. comes to enjoying the multiple the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable “One, expand the watershed benefits and opportunities that Development, which aims to programme and second, use the water provides. allow all people in all countries Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Safe drinking water and to benefit from socio-economic Employment Guarantee Act sanitation are recognized as development and to achieve the (MGNREGA) to drought-proof basic human rights, as they are full realization of human rights. the country,’’ the English daily indispensable to sustaining Seen in this context, the timing noted. healthy livelihoods and of the Prime Minister’s “Mann According to an analysis fundamental in maintaining the Ki Baat’’ was just perfect. India by Scroll.in, the watershed dignity of all human beings. is indeed facing a serious water scheme, which aims to restore International human rights crisis and the situation may ecological balance by harnessing, law obliges states to work deteriorate, if the monsoon is conserving and developing towards achieving universal inadequate. According to the degraded natural resources access to water and sanitation for India Meteorological Department such as soil, vegetative cover all, without discrimination, while (IMD), the country had its driest and water, is starved of funds as prioritizing those most in need. June in five years because the central funds for watershed work

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 11 Cover Story have shrunk by 35 per cent in related to water. "A few days ago 2018-19. I tried to do something different. In his radio programme, the I wrote a letter to the Sarpanchs Prime Minister said that water and Gram Pradhans across the scarcity affects many parts of the country. That in order to save country every year. water, to collect water, to save the "You will be surprised that very drops of the rainwater, they only 8% of the water received should convene a meeting of the from rains in the entire year is Gram Sabha and sit and discuss harvested in our country. Just the resolution to this problem and just 8%! Now the time has with the villagers,’’ the Prime come to find a solution to this Minister said. . problem. I believe, like the other The new Jal Shakti ministry, problems on hand, we can also as promised in the BJP’s solve this predicament by the manifesto for 2019 general participation of the people, elections, will adopt a flexible Janbhagidari and their power, approach for tackling the water Janshakti we are bound to find issue and delivering on Prime a solution through the strength, Minister Modi's poll promise of cooperation and resolution of 130 “Nal se Jal” (tap water) using crore citizens,’’ Mr Modi said. surface and ground water, He said the new Jal Shakti depending on the region, and ministry will allow faster pushing for conservation and decision-making on all subjects sustainability to balance supply.

12 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 Parameswaran Iyer, Secretary, dealing with water crisis across Drinking Water and Sanitation, the country. “For this, efforts are said: “Water conservation being made in different parts of will go together with supply. the country, in diverse ways. But Delivery will be managed the goal remains the same, and by the community.” that is to save water and adopt The BJP had water conservation,’’ Mr Modi promised in the said. manifesto that it Harping upon the success of would launch the cleanliness drive which had the 'Jal Jivan been given the shape of a mass Mission', under movement by the countrymen, which its Prime Minister Modi called government upon the people to also start would ensure a mass movement for water piped water for conservation. every household “Let us start an awareness by 2024. campaign to save even a single The government drop of water. In this campaign has already held a not only should we focus on meeting with various water related problems but state representatives to propagate ways to save water discuss issues around water as well. I specifically urge the availability and local challenges. luminaries belonging to different Union Minister Gajendra Singh walks of life to lead promotion Shekhawat said, “Water is a state of water conservation through subject but we will provide all innovative campaigns,’’ Mr. Modi the hand-holding required to appealed. ensure we improve our coverage The time has come to of clean drinking water from 18 realize that water cannot be per cent currently to 100 per cent manufactured in any laboratory. by 2024.” About 97.5 per cent of Earth’s According to the Minister, water is in oceans which is unfit the situation was particularly for drinking, out of the remaining bad in some states such as Uttar 2.5 per cent only one per cent is Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, available to humans for drinking Chhattisgarh and Odisha where purposes. It was this vastness the coverage of tap water is less of oceans which had prompted than 5 per cent. “More than 400 the famous English poet Samuel million households have to be Taylor Coleridge to write: “Water, provided drinking piped water water everywhere, but not a drop supply,” Mr Shekhawat said. to drink.’’ He wanted the states to If future generations have to start a public movement for survive, it is time to put politics conservation and promotion of and affiliations aside and come rational use of water. together to conserve water and Realizing the diversity and save each drop as each drop vastness of India, the Prime counts. Minister also noted that there (The writer is Consulting Editor, cannot be a single formula for UNI)

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 13 Cover Story Water Management A complex issue People are also afraid of fear mongering 'Day Zero' when taps run dry across the world

India is among the world’s most water-stressed countries. In 1950, India had 3,000–4,000 cubic meters of water per person. Today, this has fallen to around 1,000 cubic meters, largely due to population growth. China, by contrast, has twice the amount of water per person- about 2,000 cubic meters. Growing competition over finite water resources, compounded by climate change, will have serious implications for India’s food security, as well as for the livelihoods of its farmers and for the country’s economic development. India’s water resources are not evenly distributed. Half of India’s annual precipitation falls in just 15 rain-soaked days, making floods and droughts a fact of life in the country. India does not so much face a water crisis as a water management crisis, calling for a fundamental reassessment of the way the country manages water.

14 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 everal countries in the world are facing mounting Schallenges to manage its limited resources of water for its future generations. And it is equally important to provide safe and clean water. The world, last year, has witnessed the Day Zero in South Africa.

Take a closer look at six broad areas where the World Bank is supporting India's efforts to better manage its water to critical levels within two decades, placing at least 25% of resources. the country’s agriculture at risk. Unlike surface water bodies, which are managed Providing Drinking Water by government institutions, to Rural Areas groundwater management Historically, the government lies primarily in the hands of has been responsible for millions of water users across providing drinking water to 833 the country. million rural people in some A new World Bank supported 640,000 villages across the water . Strong community project will soon introduce water country. Since 1991, however, it involvement has lowered the conservation practices and help has sought to place communities cost of infrastructure, curbed the equip communities 78 districts in charge of their own water leakage of funds, and led to huge in seven Indian states to manage supply systems. savings for the state exchequer. groundwater. To help bring this about, "Since 2000, some $3.4 four generations of World Bank Groundwater billion in World Bank support projects have worked with India Over the past few decades, has helped 36 million people to test various reform options groundwater extraction has in 40,000 villages gain and pioneered new models risen exponentially across India. better access to drinking of service delivery. Village India is now the largest user water. Strong community level governments are now of groundwater worldwide, involvement has lowered the being empowered to choose, pumping out 25% of all the cost of infrastructure, curbed the construct and operate their groundwater extracted in the leakage of funds, and led to huge own water supply systems, with world. savings for the state exchequer." government water institutions More than half of India’s playing the role of facilitator. districts are threatened by Improving access to water Since 2000, some $3.4 groundwater depletion or on dry rainfed lands billion in World Bank support contamination. If current India has among the world’s has helped 36 million people trends persist, 60 percent of largest areas under non-irrigated in 40,000 villages gain India’s districts are likely to (rainfed) agriculture, leaving better access to drinking see groundwater tables fall farmers dependent on fickle

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 15 Cover Story

monsoon rains to cultivate The World Bank’s National Rs 30 crores, these reservoir a single crop. In many poor Ganga River Basin Project is management systems have rainfed parts of the country, helping build sewer networks helped avert flood damages of a series of World Bank and sewage treatment plants in over Rs. 238 crores per year. supported watershed projects several of the towns and cities They have also cushioned have used remote sensing along the river. The project’s farmers and townsfolk from the images, soil profiles, and investments in Prayagraj harshest impacts of drought in hydrological information to help (Allahabad) are now complete. the dry season. communities build check dams, Soon, no untreated wastewater Under the ongoing National farm ponds and other water will flow into the Ganga at this Hydrology Project III (2017- retention structures to make critical stretch of the river. 2025) federal water agencies will water available for many more now share critical water data months a year. Managing Floods with states in real time, making it In the remote western region and Droughts transparent and accessible to all. of West Bengal – one of the Knowing how much water poorest parts of the state - India has, where it has it, and Enhancing Dam another World Bank supported when it has it, is essential for Safety in India project is using the latest the country to manage its water Given its highly seasonal remote sensing technologies resources effectively. This is pattern of rainfall, India’s 5,000+ and mobilizing communities to especially important for reservoir large dams provide essential build small, scientifically-placed managers, as even small mistakes water storage for the country. irrigation structures. With water when dealing with large volumes However, many dams are ageing now available during the dry of water can have devastating (605 dams are more than 50 winter months too, farmers have consequences for lives and years old and another 3,000 + been able to reap a second crop livelihoods downstream. are over 25 years) risking the of vegetables and diversify into Since 1995, a series of World lives of ever increasing numbers more profitable horticulture, Bank supported hydrology of people downstream. giving a much-needed boost to projects – Hydrology I (1995- A World Bank supported family incomes. 2003); Hydrology II (2004-2014) project is helping rehabilitate - have introduced systems and and modernize over 220 large Cleaning the Ganga technology that enable reservoir dams in Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Only one-third of sewage from managers to take crucial Orissa, and Tamil Nadu. It is the hundreds of towns and cities decisions so that their reservoirs also helping reform institutions along the Ganga is treated before remain full, dams remain and strengthening regulations to it flows into the river, making safe, and no damage is caused make these dams both safe and India’s most iconic river a highly downstream. financially sustainable. polluted one. Installed at a cost of cost of (Courtesy : World Bank Report)

16 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 25 24 20 Education This Budget will fulfill aspirations of all: Pokhriyal

By Divya Joshi Kumar

n order to give major push to education sector, the year 2019-20. Therefore Ithe Narendra Modi-led the fund availability for higher government has increased the education for 2019-20 has allocation from Rs. 85,010 crore increased substantially. in 2018-19 to Rs. 94,853.64 The IITs have been allocated crore in 2019-20. Rs. 6409.95 Cr which is an Finance Minister Nirmala increase of 12% over the last Sitharaman presented the year. budget on July 5. There has been major Human Resource increase in flagship programmes Development Minister Ramesh such as RUSA where budget Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ appreciated which is a 9.4 per cent increase allocation has been increased the Union Budget 2019-20 and compared to allocation of by 40 per cent from Rs.1500 expressed his gratitude to Ms Rs.35, 010 Cr for this sector in Cr to Rs.2,100 Cr. Central Sitharaman for giving priority BE 2018-19. Universities have been provided to education sector and overall Apart from this, the Rs. 6,864.40 Cr. UGC has been development of the students. Government has made available allocated another Rs.4950.66 Cr. He said that the aspirations Rs.15,000 Cr through extra- Unnat Bharat Abhiyan, under of all stakeholders in education budgetary resources using the which 10,000 villages have been sector would be met by Higher Education Financing adopted by Higher Educational this Budget and expressed Agency (HEFA) mechanism. Institutions, has got 32 pc happiness over the increased The Government has increase in budget allocation, allocation of Budget in provided an additional equity reiterating faith of Govt in Education sector. of Rs 2,100 Cr to HEFA to linking educational institutions The Minister lauded the enable it to mobilise the with Society. creation of National Research required funds for building high For School Education & Foundation, which would play quality infrastructure in higher Literacy, there has been an key role in coordinating the educational institutions. overall increase of Rs 6422.88 research efforts of all Ministries The overall fund availability crore (12.81%) in the Budget in Government of India. for the Higher Education Sector Allocation of Department of The total budget allocation for 2019-20 is therefore Rs. School Education and Literacy in in the BE 2019-20 for Higher 53,317 Cr (Rs. 38,317 Cr + Rs. the FY 2019-20 from FY 2018- Education is Rs. 38,317 Cr, 15,000 Cr through HEFA) in 19. The overall Budget Allocation

18 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 greater autonomy and focus on better academic outcomes. Highlighting the recent achievements, Ms Sitharaman said that while there was not a single Indian institution in the top 200 in the world university rankings five years back, there are three institutions now – two IITs and IISc Bangalore – in the top 200 bracket. This has been achieved due to concerted efforts by the institutions to boost their standards and also project their credentials better. Giving further details, the Finance Minister said that in FY 2019-20 is Rs 56536.63 To achieve the objectives Massive online open courses Crore out of which Scheme of research and innovation, through the SWAYAM initiative allocation is Rs 48063.60 Crore the Finance Minister also have helped bridge the digital and Non-Scheme Allocation is announced setting up of a divide for disadvantaged section Rs 8473.03 cr. National Research Foundation of the student community. To It was also stated that (NRF) to fund, coordinate upgrade the quality of teaching, increase in Scheme Allocation and promote research in the the Global Initiative of Academic is by Rs 6603.47 Crore Budget country. NRF will ensure that Networks (GIAN) programme Allocation in Flagship Schemes the overall research eco-system in higher education was started, have increased i.e Samagra in the country is strengthened aimed at tapping the global pool Shiksha (by Rs 5430.19 crore) with focus on identified thrust of scientists and researchers, she and Mid Day Meal (by Rs 500 areas relevant to our national explained. crore). priorities and towards basic “The IMPRINT or Impacting An amount of Rs. 400 crore science without duplication Research Innovation and has been provided for FY of effort and expenditure, the Technology scheme began 2019-20 to create “World Class Minister explained. The funds as a pan-IIT and IISc joint Institutions” in the field of available with all Ministries will initiative to develop a roadmap education which is more than be integrated in NRF and would for research to solve major three times the revised estimates be adequately supplemented engineering and technology for the previous year. with additional funds. challenges in selected domains The Finance Minister assured Ms Sitharaman also said that needed by the country. It is that the Government will ‘Study in India’ programme because of this that Higher also bring in a New National will focus on bringing foreign Educational Institutions are Education Policy to transform students to study in our higher now becoming the centres of India’s higher education educational institutions. The innovation, the Minister said. system to one of the global best Finance Minister disclosed that Khelo India Scheme will education systems. The new draft legislation for setting up be expanded to provide all Policy proposes major changes Higher Education Commission necessary financial support and in both school and higher of India (HECI) would be a National Sports Education education among others, better presented in the year ahead. This Board for Development of Governance systems and brings will help to comprehensively Sportspersons would be set up greater focus on research and reform the regulatory system under Khelo India Scheme to innovation. of higher education to promote popularise sports at all levels. 

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 19 Real Estate Leaders In Real Estate: The Design Of Cities And Their Founders Of Tomorrow To say that the real estate market in India is growing would be an understatement.

By Snehdeep Aggarwal

he industry that was pegged to have a market Tsize of USD 120 billion in 2017 is expected to grow to USD 1000 billion by 2020. To put that in perspective, that is an 800% growth in three need to become places where years’ time. There is no better people stop by to greet each time than now for key players other, grab a cup of coffee next in the industry to exhibit door, pursue hobbies together leadership in terms of design, in, maybe plan a potluck. The regulatory compliance and more Real estate leaders have a one aspect that can facilitate a significantly, sustainability. real opportunity here- that of culture shift is one that most We live in a world that is building micro-cities within good website designers are changing faster than we can cities. The time has come for us already familiar with- a good possibly keep up with. The to move away from the concept of User Experience, or UX for weather patterns from a decade apartments built as communities, short. are history now, and the ever- and move into a concept of The boom in the real estate growing traffic in burgeoning communities that just happen to industry was accompanied, cities makes time a valuable be centredaround living spaces. until now, by a supply-and- commodity. In every customer’s After all, what is real estate if not demand pattern that often put innate need to return to the a way to do the things we love in good design at the very end and roots is an unspoken call for the spaces we love? sometimes got rid of it entirely! more open spaces, more time This is where the need for What, then, could a real estate for the things they love, and great design comes in. Micro- leader do differently? less time spent navigating a cities are meant to foster a To start with, they could make confusing metropolis. specific kind of culture. They user experience the beginning

20 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 of all real estate endeavours. everyday but pleasant, relaxing We must begin looking at every Today’s discerning experiences. Cycling to and nook and every cranny of a customer also comes from work is not an exception project as space that can be with global exposure. but the most preferred method utilised. Negative spaces, or of travelling. open areas in this context, are The vibrant streets of And that’s just the streets! just as important as the built-up cities like Paris and Homes, too, can be utilised and super-built-up areas. Copenhagen are fair in several different ways- a Today’s discerning customer bachelor pad, a party venue, a also comes with global game for them, as they family den. Up until now, we exposure. The vibrant streets of should be. Moreover, have looked at spaces in terms cities like Paris and Copenhagen when we stop to think of of the number of bedrooms, are fair game for them, as they bathrooms, and so on. Can we should be. Moreover, when we it, what makes people fall instead start to look at them as stop to think of it, what makes in love with these streets living spaces that serve more people fall in love with these so much? It is, yet again, than one purpose at different streets so much? It is, yet again, points in time? their usability value. Walking their usability value. If we had to present just along the cafes or shopping three key takeaways for future from the boulangerie are not leaders in real estate, they challenges to be navigated would be:

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 21 Real Estate

• Keen, granular As we speak, more consumers focus on design and utility For a real estate leader, are moving towards living of the entire project there is only one end choices that save them time, • Awareness and goal in mind and that and also become spaces where translation of city spaces is to put a smile on the they can live more fully. that serve as cultural For a real estate leader, there epicentres faces of every single is only one end goal in mind • Adaptability of person who calls their and that is to put a smile on homes according to project home. This can be the faces of every single person individual preferences who calls their project home. With the implementation of achieved only by closely This can be achieved only by RERA guidelines in India, we collaborating with the closely collaborating with the have taken the necessary right end stakeholders- the end stakeholders- the end users step towards better regulatory of the project. Such projects compliance. In the long run, end users of the project. serve not just the people who this can enable serious players will eventually live there, but to build sustainable living they set a precedent for the solutions that become a valued kinds of homes that people investment for decades to come. can look forward to, and that As we have come to witness, hazards and even seemingly more people in the industry can unplanned development is minor issues such as noise replicate in the future. the fastest way to get to a pollution and overcrowding of (The writer is founder and catastrophe. Congestion, living spaces are a real problem today. chairman Bhartiya City)

22 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019

People Inspired by the Mahatma

Abhijit C. Chandra writes on how a tribal hamlet in Madhya Pradesh is being developed along the lines of Gandhian ideology

hopal : There’s a beautiful dwelling in clusters of hutments. consequence, a spurt in agrarian saying in Marathi, which “Our activities at Chedka vigour was witnessed and there Btranslated, reads: “You are based on the Gandhian was ample water for irrigation. cannot tend sheep while seated concept of samagrata mein When asked whether the on a camel’s back; you have vikas. We are looking after every project was modelled on to stand on the ground to be a aspect. The team took up the something similar achieved successful shepherd.” gauntlet vis-à-vis health and elsewhere, the bureaucrat That noble sentiment appears hygiene, safe potable water, averred: “Earlier, Gandhian to have inspired Indian Revenue education of children, sports, organisations joined hands Service officer Rakesh Kumar most importantly alternative to develop Khoba village in Paliwal – presently Principal rural employment generation, Gujarat’s Valsad District.” Commissioner (Income Tax), water conservation and Numerous other people are Bhopal – who has transcended environment conservation,” Mr also associated with the Chedka the files in an endeavour to be Paliwal – who originally hails enterprise, which is being a direct participant in realising from Muzaffarnagar – told this contributed to by the social the development dream. He is correspondent. service organisation Yogdan. an active volunteer in a dynamic With help from the state The Bhopal-based Gram Seva project that commenced in 2016 government, deepening of a Samiti is looking after day-to-day at Chedka in Hoshangabad community pond was achieved matters at the hamlet. Former District’s Sohagpur Block. under the Mahatma Gandhi I.R.S. officer A.K. Jain presides The hamlet, with a population National Rural Employment over the Samiti and its vice chief of about 500, has residents Guarantee Scheme. As a direct is Mr D. Namdev. 

24 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 Exclusive

Buying behaviour of customer has changed Technology has changed lives of millions of people drastically and the Travel & Tourism industry is also not left untouched. In an interview, online travel company EaseMyTrip CEO Nishant Pitti shares the concerns as well as the expectations of the customers and throws light on other important aspects of the industry which has witnessed tremendous change in past few years... Excerpts:

How the idea of floating agent is trying to con us on our a travel agent, we identified the online travel company personal travel. We became key concerns of customers and emerged? very keen to save on the journey travel agents and this made us The idea of founding a travel of our family members and emerging stronger and providing company clicked in our mind resulted into establishing a them necessary services. when we realized that our travel travel agency. After becoming The company was

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 25 Exclusive started in May 2008. What difference you have observed in these many years in travel industry? Since its establishment till date, not only EaseMyTrip but entire travel industry has gone through a transformation. Now we have to ensure that the company has the best tools and methods of the trade. Whether for business or for pleasure, travelers booking their trips want it to be extraordinary. Using various online travel tools, they are empowered requirements of our old positively growing cash every to search for the best deals, customers. There are family year, we didn’t splash huge measure layovers and book and couple specific offers, amount on marketing and gave even the complicated itineraries region specific offers and offers priority to BTL and digital from their comfort zone. Now for users of different banks. marketing. Our strategy is to we can’t work on guesswork These offers don’t let our users retain customers and convert and have to communicate with moving beyond our website and them into our potential clients customers through data based their positive words of mouth who wholeheartedly refer our evidence. The buying behavior bring new customers onboard. brand to their acquaintances. of the customer has changed. As far as UDAN promotion The company has registered a Today more number of travelers is concerned, we were very turnover of Rs.1956 Crore in FY is ready to take breaks and go on impressed with this initiative of 2017-18 and total ticket sales holidays. So, despite the tough the government of India. This have exceeded more than 50% competition, we are getting our scheme allows the passengers in FY 2018-19. We are expecting own share of customers. from tier-2 and tier-3 cities of this growth to carry on positively Your company has India flying at affordable rates in coming years. launched many offers to their hometowns. By giving Please mention few to woo customers. Tell additional discount to the words on the company's us about some of them passengers on UDAN routes, we working, agents, franchise and how these deals are reducing their travel worries. etc...? benefits the company In such a stiff competition At present, EaseMyTrip is a (long or short term--How in the market, how you leading name in travel industry it improves customer channelize your company's of India with more than 8 base). Also mention about strategy/growth? What is million direct customers and UDAN promotion through your expectation in this 42,000 travel agents. We offer EaseMyTrip platform? financial year in terms of best franchise model to the Offers and discounts play revenue growth? people seeking to start their own an important role in every The patience game of last business but have less knack company’s marketing strategy. 11 years has paid us well. for risk taking. By associating However, if your products are Instead of burning-money and with us, they get complete good, your customers will not spending a huge amount to travel solutions with advanced go anywhere else. We have acquire every new-customer, technology and assistance of introduced new offers to not we focused on our USP of experienced travel professionals. just acquire new customers charging zero convenience-fees We also give the highest but to also manage the specific & giving great services. Despite commission to our agents in the

26 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 to travel. Our government is taking praiseworthy initiative to eradicate that but every Indian needs to take a wakeup call on this issue that is growing and making our beautiful places dreadful. All the things are being done online. In this scenario, do you have any plan to touch interior parts of the country? I already said earlier that we are planning to expand out in tier 2 and tier 3 cities through industry. a unique proposition of Zero local offices and holiday hubs. Throw light on expansion Cancellation Penalty on flight It is true that everything is done plans... Any collaboration or tickets. online but a local office has its tie up... You have recently In comparison with other own benefits. opened office in London. nations, how India's travel Does your company have We are planning to expand and tourism industry fares? any complaint/grievance our business in Tier – 2 and Tier What else it needs to do? desk? And how does it – 3 cities of India by opening How you see country's work? offices of EaseMyTrip and also travel and tourism industry We don’t have any complaint/ have plans to open EMT Holiday 5-years down the line. grievance desk but our own Hubs in all major cities to India has emerged to be customer support center where increase revenues from Non- a market with the cheapest customers can call 24X7 in order Air Products, including hotels, domestic airfares in the last to register their complaints bus, holiday packages, cabs and few years. It is due to the price or get their queries satisfied. railway booking. The opening sensitive middle class of India, Unlike others, they interact with of office in London is part of our whom airlines have for filling EaseMyTrip employees directly expansion plan and we will make their planes. Indian local ticket that reduces the time to solve efforts for expanding at other prices is just a fraction of what their grievances. overseas locations in order to is charged at destinations like India is a favorite tourist serve the customers travelling Finland, Switzerland, Austria destination. Any data you to & from these destinations. and Estonia, along with much- would like to share as how We want to promote India developed markets such as the many tourists visited the majorly as an important tourist US and UK. India is one among country in 2018 and from destination in overseas markets. the list of the 43 countries which part of the world the In future, we would also love offering the cheapest airfares. most? And also travelers to get introduced with more A huge part of Indian travel visited which region of verticals. Recently, we have market is dominated by low cost India the most? joined hands with various service carriers, so, the price remains Indian government has not suppliers to make our services low in our country. As a tourist released any data related to the better and customer-oriented. destination, we need to focus arrival of foreign tourists for We collaborated to China’s on increasing security for the 2018 and the January-March VariFlight for real-time GPS travelers and make sure that quarter of 2019. So, we tracking of flights. We also got foreigners coming here should can’t make any speculations associated to Liberty Insurance feel safe. There is littering over it. to provide the customers with issue at the most of places (As told to Divya Joshi Kumar)

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 27 Business Direct Selling: A huge potential for self-employment & Socio-Economic transformation of the country By Ramesh Sharma increasing year on year t a time when India is as the industry grows. struggling with problems It has also provided a Alike unemployment, space for those people Vivek Katoch Rajat Banerji lack of jobs & entrepreneurship who are employed but opportunities, with poverty want to have additional source sellers and their proportional and disparity in earnings and of income and work according representation stands at 53 % a not-so-encouraging growth to their will and wish in flexible and 47% respectively in DS, adds trajectory, it is somehow hours as direct sellers. Anyone Mr Katoch. difficult to find sustainable can venture in to this business "There was a time when it answers to effectively tackle model as a full time or part was difficult to differentiate these challenges. One possible time career regardless of age, between Direct Selling, Multi answer however, lies in Direct gender, educational qualification Level Marketing (MLM) and Selling (DS) which is emerging as experience, without any hassles Networking Marketing business major component of mitigating and investment. There are models. To allay such confusions such issues and becoming an instances when university the Ministry of Food & Consumer important industry in bringing students and small time workers Affairs, Government of India socio-economic transformation have taken up a career as direct (GOI) has come forward and in society and as well in the sellers," says Vivek Katoch, notified Direct Selling Guidelines country. Chairman Indian Direct Selling clearly defining the Direct Selling "The Direct Selling (DS) is Association (IDSA). Industry. The government's steadily broadening its spectrum The business model has move has brought relief and in the country, particularly over become even more conducive to clarity in regulatory environment the last few years, generating housewives who have taken it up for the industry as well as direct huge self-employment and in large numbers in the country. selling force and protecting entrepreneurship opportunities. This has not only led to economic consumer rights. The move has DS presently provides self- independence but also for even provided safety shield for employment to over 55 lacs empowerment. Notably, women the industry, direct sellers and people as Direct Sellers in the have continuously dominated consumers from unethical MLM country and these numbers are and outclassed males as direct companies. So far thirteen state

28 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 of the global retail trade. United States has a share of around 20 % , closely followed by China having share of 19%. However, India does not find any place in the list of top 15 countries which clearly reflects growth potential in the country, having second largest population in world and a big market also. DS has an immense contribution to the society by way of providing employment and as an additional source of income to lakhs of people, hail from different strata thus, raising their income levels, improving economic and living conditions in governments have notified DS which includes the states of the country. The Industry at the Guidelines to ensure lawful Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, same was also making sizable operations of Direct Selling Punjab, Haryana, Himcachal contribution to the government Industry (DSI). The Himachal Pradesh, Jammu Kashmir and exchequer by way of taxes on the Pradesh government has recently Chandigarh(U.T.), followed products they sell. DS companies approved the Guidelines in its by western region with share contribute around Rs 1500 cabinet meeting and notify them of around 25% and includes crore annually to government shortly to become the 13th state Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, exchequer and figures have to have the Guidelines. The other Chhatisgarh, Goa and Gujarat. upward trend with passing of states have also realised the The Southern , Eastern and each year. significance of the Guidelines and North eastern regions have DS is working in sync with following the suit," opined, Rajat around 24% , 19% and 7% share government's mission of Skill Banerji, Secretary, IDSA. respectively in gross sales. Of India, Make in India, Start-up The DSI in India is growing the states Maharashtra has the India and Financial Inclusion. at a CAGR of 8.42 % and its highest sales across the country DSs, not only imparts training member companies, represented with 13% share. to its sales force and groom it as by 'Indian Direct Selling Of the global Direct Selling start-Ups but also manufacture Association(IDSA)' , have trade Asia Pacific region and outsource 70% of the attained retail trade size of Rs has around 46 % share. products from domestic market. 10,324.20 crores till FY 2016- Wellness category product Some of the major DSCs 17. However, non-member sales contributes to about 35 like Amway India, Herbalife companies have also over % of global trade followed by International, Oriflame India, Rs 4,200 crores trade in the cosmetics and personal care Avon, Modicare, Tupperware and country. North region has the products which contribute 30% many other IDSA members have highest share of around 26% to it. The top 15 Direct Selling their manufacturing facilities in in the total gross sales of DSI countries account for about 87% the country. 

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 29 Feature Self-made ‘model’ villages in remote Assam

By Sushmita Goswami

et in a remote area vermin compost, plastic disposal, of Assam, near the plantation, etc taken up by these Sinternational border with villages. Every house is marked Bhutan, two tribal villages are with a house number which is scripting their own stories of displayed in the fencing in the glories of self-sufficiency and front of every house. No cow cleanliness. Poor infrastructure, dung can be seen on the roadside. remote location, limited means While consumption of of education and employment traditionally brewed alcohol is and low income have not marred common in most of the tribal the enthusiasm of the villagers to villages of Assam, these two ensure hygiene and cleanliness, villages have totally banned both of surroundings and brewing and consumption of personal habits. The initiatives of the local people of Borimakha and No 2 Kataligaon Rabha Chupa villages have turned these two villages into model ones. Both are adjoining villages in Baksa district, which falls under the administrative control of Bodoland Territorial Council. Borimakha village with 368 families is segmented into three ‘chupa’s (localities), with one ‘chupa’ housing around 200 Bodo tribal families. The nearby No. 2 Kataligaon Rabha Chupa is a village of 83 families of Rabha tribal community. Both the villages have banned use of plastics and installed alcohol, Ganja or marijuana and service holders. The farmers of smart garbage disposal systems. other intoxicating materials. Borimakha village adopted new Open defecation has been Agriculture is the main farming initiatives while also eliminated in both villages and livelihood of these two-self diversifying into cash crops. various environment-friendly made model villages, with a Dipul Bodo, a young farmer of programs, such as production of few of the villagers also being Borimakha tribal village, has

30 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 taken up commercial cultivation the villagers for maintaining concern of the people. of strawberry in his four bighas cleanliness and not to indulge in Successive state governments of land. He has planted 5000 any types of intoxication, etc. have taken many schemes to strawberry saplings and invested The path to achieving such upgrade several selected villages around Rs 38,000. He is cleanliness and well-being for to model villages. The aim of expecting to get over Rs 1,50,000 the villages is also strewn with this project is to prevent distress after harvesting. Along with many challenges. Although the migration from rural to urban strawberry, many farmers have general literacy rate is high in areas, to make the model village a also taken up cultivation of high these villages, level of education “hub” that could attract resources yield Indian jujube or ‘bogori’, is limited due to economic for the development of other which is another cash crop. The conditions, poor infrastructures villages in its vicinity, to provide villagers of No 2 Kataligaon and lack of motivation. The easier, faster and cheaper access Rabha Chupa have formed a villages are facing problems to urban markets for agricultural co-operative society, under the in sanitation, sewages and produce or other marketable name of ‘Milan Samabay Samity’, drainages, irrigation, drinking commodities produced in and taken up community farming water. The Public Health such villages, to contribute under the initiative of the society. Engineering Department has towards social empowerment The No. 2 Kataligaon Rabha detected arsenic in the ground by engaging all sections of the Chupa has installed bamboo- water of these areas; though the community in the task of village made garbage bins alongside the government has not taken any development and to create and roads and a number of billboards initiative to make the drinking sustain a culture of cooperative are placed in both sides of the water arsenic free. Lack of street living for inclusive and rapid road to create awareness among light in these two villages is a big development.

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 31 Feature

Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council: An example of successful 'self rule' By Abhijit Deb Celebrated every year on of the tribe. he 68th foundation June 23, the foundation day Mikir Hills district was of Karbi Anglong also signifies the importance formed in the year 1952 under TAutonomous Council of self rule under autonomous the Sixth Schedule of the Indian (KAAC) held at Donkamoka in council in the region .The Constitution. Soon the district West Karbi Anglong district in history of Karbi Anglong was christened as Karbi Anglong Assam showcased in its entirety Autonomous Council draws back District Council in 1976 and the rich vibrant tribal culture from 1940, when a handful of after signing MoU in 1996, the of the north eastern part of energetic Karbi Youth formed council was renamed as Karbi the county and the importance an organization with name Anglong Autonomous Council. of self rule for the overall and style of Karbi Adurbar and Since then the KAAC could be development of tribal population initiated for preserving the said that have emerged as one of in the region. political and traditional identity the best autonomous council in

32 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 and Mizoram, according to the Centre. The Finance Commission would be mandated to recommend devolution of financial resources to the councils, the government said in an official statement. Till now, the autonomous councils have depended on grants from Central Ministries and the State governments for specific projects. “There were days where the Karbis, Bodos and Dimasas were demanding nothing but State within a State and I believe that their demands have almost been fulfilled one after the another because almost all departments have been transferred to them except Home Department,” said Assam Finance Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma while attending as the chief guest at Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council’s (KAAC) 68th foundation day. Chief Executive Member of the council Tuliram Ronghang the country treading the path of development. “KAAC gives first priority to development of Karbi people. And to achieve that council works as a team. In last few years we have built two national level sports stadium invested heavily on roads and town infrastructure,” Ritesh Ingti, Deputy Chairman, KAAC told Union Cabinet on Wednesday in his speech recalled the Developing India Mirror. approved a Constitutional sacrifice done by Karbi leaders In fact, many autonomous amendment to increase the like Lt Semsonsing Engti and council like Bodo Territorial financial and executive powers Lt Khorsing Terang in building Council, Khasi Hills Autonomous of the 10 autonomous councils Karbi Homeland. “Because of district council are in existence in in the Sixth Schedule areas of their selfless sacrifice for us we North Eastern states. the northeast.The amendment are here now and their dream to In order to strengthen would impact a population of make Karbi Anglong as one of them further the government about 1 crore tribals living in the best districts will not go in in beginning of the year he Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura vain. 

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 33 Defence

Uttar Pradesh to host Defence Expo in Feb next year n a first, the 11th biennial edition of Def of Uttar Pradesh as an attractive destination for Expo India-2020 is scheduled to be held in investment in the defence sector and act as a ILucknow from February 5-8, with theme platform for alliances and joint ventures in the 'India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing industry. Hub' and it will focus on 'Digital Transformation ''We in the Ministry of Defence welcome of Defence'. The defence expo offers an excellent Defence Industry OEMs, Exhibitors and opportunity for the Indian Defence industry Ministerial level delegations from the foreign to showcase its capabilities and promote its countries including visitors from all over the export potential. The shows are conducted at world, to display their latest innovations in an international level, which not only facilitates #DefExpo2020," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Business-to-Business (B2B) interaction with said . senior foreign delegations but also Government- ''They are also welcome to experience India’s to-Government (G2G) meetings and signing of emergence as a major manufacturing centre Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), the providing attractive opportunities for co- Defence ministry said. development and co-production of defence items The exhibition will also highlight emergence not only for our defence forces but also for export

34 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 to the world. . Nadu. The northern state has a strong defence The DefExpo will provide an opportunity to the industrial infrastructure. It has four units major foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd at Lucknow, (OEMs) to collaborate with the Indian defence Kanpur, Korwa and Naini (Prayagraj), nine industry and help promote 'Make in India' ordnance factory units, including Kanpur, Korwa, initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shahjahanpur, Firozabad and one unit of Bharat Ministerial level delegations from the Electronics Limited at Ghaziabad. One of the two foreign countries and visitors from all over the Defence Industrial Corridors (DICs) of India is country as well as abroad are expected to visit also planned in Uttar Pradesh. DefExpo and witness India’s emergence as a The Corridor will encourage Defence Micro major manufacturing hub providing attractive Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), opportunities for co-development and co- including our Indian defence industry and production of defence equipment and systems not promote Defence Public Sector Undertakings only for our defence forces but also for export to (DPSUs). The other DIC is proposed in Tamil the world. 

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 35 Defence

Belagavi (formerly Belgaum) in Karnataka. The priming commenced on October 6, 2018 and concluded on November 10. More than 100 officers participated. On a related note, India’s first woman commando trainer Dr Seema Rao – a seventh- degree black belt – and her spouse Honorary Maj Deepak Rao – a Close Quarters Battle expert and Indian Army Brand Ambassador TA – trained 15,000 commandos over a A captain inspired by Kargil Capt Ishank Sharma was blessed with a service-to-nation mentality since childhood and the year 1999 proved pivotal as the unalloyed courage.

Abhijit C. Chandra a life in olive green. The Sharma profiles a young achiever family has no other member in hopal: There is arguably the Armed Forces. no joy surpassing “As a kid, my son helped the Bthat experienced by a needy. At times, he requested me father when he first holds his to bear impoverished children’s period of two decades helping newborn in his arms but there educational expenses,” the modernisation of CQB. is decidedly nothing, absolutely officer’s sire Bansh Pati The couple authored the ‘Field nothing, which even comes close Sharma – a Madhya Pradesh Book of Explosive Recognition to the pride of seeing one's child Assembly official – told this for Anti-Terror Ops’, which is eventually assume the mantle of correspondent. Ishank was born exclusively for Indian forces. defending the nation. to Mrs Aarti Sharma in Satna. Similarly, Shaurya Bharadwaj Capt Ishank Sharma was He was schooled in Bhopal, is a – an expert in various combat blessed with a service-to-nation national-level badminton player techniques and creator of the mentality since childhood and besides sterling performances in Swadeshi Customised System of the year 1999 proved pivotal hockey, football, basketball and Situation Reaction Tactics – has as the unalloyed courage, boxing. instructed multiple divisions dedication to duty and sense Commissioned on December of the Armed Forces. He is one of sacrifice of the Indian 11, 2015; Capt Sharma, of the respected trainers in the Army’s officers and men during posted “somewhere” in country and gave free lessons to Operation Vijay galvanised a Asom, successfully completed lakhs of rural women through small boy, an only child, towards commando training at his initiative Mission Prahar. 

36 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019

Tourism

Chhattisgarh tourism A unique blend of nature, culture and religion

By Aarti Dhar endowed with natural diversity, wildlife, Buddhist sites, palaces, hhattisgarh is much more rich cultural heritage, quaint waterfalls, caves and plateaus as than just indigenous temples and a range of exquisite well. Some of these tourist sites Ccommunities living in handicrafts. are quite popular, there are many the thick forests of Bastar. It is It has ancient monuments, rare more waiting to be explored.

38 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 A unique blend of nature, culture and religion

The 42-odd Scheduled Tribes traditional craft industry such market. in Bastar, Sarguja, Bilaspur as bell-metal craft, wood craft, "Many of the sites in and Raipur depend for their wrought iron craft and Kosa Chhattisgarh are still untouched livelihood on agriculture, silk that have made a mark in and unexplored and offer a collection of forest product and the domestic and international unique and alternate experience

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 39 Tourism to tourists. Exploring these places can be an experience in itself compared to other traditional destinations which have become overcrowded with time,’’ says Tourism Secretary, Ms Niharika Barik Singh. Keeping in mind the vast potential for tourism, Chhattisgarh’s Tourism Policy positions it as an attractive destination packaged for religious, cultural and wildlife tourism. The objectives of the policy are clear: to promote economically, culturally and ecologically sustainable tourism in the State. Importantly, it seeks to preserve, enrich and showcase the rich and diverse cultural and ecological heritage of the State

Many of the sites in Chhattisgarh are

still untouched and and, at the same time, increase tribal culture, the Chhattisgarh unexplored and the contribution of tourism to the Tourism Board has launched a offer a unique and economic development of inter- new initiative, `Tribal Tourism related sectors. While the role Circuit`. The Circuit is part alternate experience of the government will remain of the Central Government`s to tourists. Exploring that of a facilitator, the policy `Swadesh Darshan Scheme`, encourages and promotes private which aims at assisting the these places can sector initiatives in developing growth of tourism across India. be an experience tourism related infrastructure. The scheme has been allocated in itself compared "We are working to promote a budget of Rs. 99.94 crore to new concepts in tourism such showcase the traditional tribal to other traditional as eco-tourism, village tourism culture and ethnicity to the destinations which and adventure tourism while tourists. respecting the intellectual The foundation stone for have become integrity and rights of the the development of the Circuit overcrowded with local communities,’’ Ms Singh was laid last year at Chitrakote, time,’’ says Tourism explains. Bastar by the Chief Minister, Raman Singh. Secretary, Ms Niharika Tribal Tourism Circuit This Circuit comprises tribal Barik Singh. Realising the popularity of dominated area of Jashpur,

40 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 Jagdalpur, Chitrakot and Sanctuary – all rich in wildlife Thirthgarh, mainly the southern and flora and fauna. An Chhattisgarh. This circuit will artificially created forest is provide a holistic experience to being developed within the the tourists so that tourists can new Capital – Naya Raipur appreciate the tribal way of life (now named Atal Nagar) with and the vast cultural difference facilities of a jungle safari. among the tribes. The Central government has Dongargarh allocated Rs. 45 crore for the One of the Shaktipeeths of first phase of this project. The Chhattisgarh, Dongargarh will development has already been be developed as a destination started at various places and the for Religious Tourism and entire project will be completed will be funded by the Central in phases over a span of 2 years. government under the 'Prasad The construction of Eco Log Scheme'. Huts and a wooden restaurant has already been completed at Sirpur Gangrel. Sirpur is a world-famous The Eco Circuit is also a part Buddhist site in Mahasamund of the Central Government`s district, just 78 km away from

Kunkuri, Mainpat, Amkapur, Maheshpur, Ratanpur, Kurdhar, Sarodhadhar, Gangrel, Nathiya Navagaon,Kondagaon, Jagdalpur, Chithrakot and Thirathgarh. In a bid to attract more tourists, Tribal Tourism Circuit focuses mainly on two projects, Ethnic Tourist Village and Eco `Swadesh Darshan Scheme` Raipur. Ethnic Tourist Destination under which various dam sites of Maintained by the development. The places chosen Chhattisgarh are being developed Archaeological Survey of India, for developing Ethnic Tourist for water sports, other adventure the village hosts the Sirpur Villages include Jashpur, sports and tourist facilities. group of monuments consisting Ambikapur and Sarodhadhar of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain in the northern part of Forests and Wildlife temples and monasteries. These Chhattisgarh and the places that The State boasts of are dated from the 5th to 12th fall under Eco-Ethnic Tourism Kanger Valley National Park, century. Some of these were project includes Mainpat, Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, visited in 1872 by Cunningham, Kurdar, Gangrel, Kondagaon, and Barnawapara Wildlife who published his findings

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 41 Tourism

exhibition portraying the cultural heritage of the State. The exhibition has two distinct sections displaying the rich cultural heritage of the north and south Chhattisgarh. Aamcho Bastar combines features of Bastar’s nature, religion, bio- diversity and culture. Bastar region has Bastar, Kanker, Kondagaon, Sukma, Narayanpur, and Dantewada districts within its jurisdiction. The yet-to-be-completed second part of the exhibition which will depict the northern part of Chhattisgarh will promote traditions, culture and craft of Sarguja region comprising five distrits of Sarguja, Koria, Balrampur, Surajpur and Jashpur. Comparatively unexplored, these districts are famous for their tribal culture, heritage, forest, tourist places, about the Laxman temple and its interesting carvings. Recent excavations have unearthed 12 Buddhist Viharas, 1 Jain Vihara, monolithic statues of Buddha and Mahavira, 22 Shiva temples and 5 Vishnu temples, underground granary market and a sixth century ‘snaan kund’ (public bath). "On the whole, we are promoting Chhattisgarh as an eco, ethno and adventure tourism destination. Bicycling events to promote Chhattisgarh as a pollution-free State, are being organizing on regular intervals. We are coming up with good trek routes in Sarodha Dadar,’’ the developed by the Department high lands and various festivals. Tourism Secretary says. of Culture to depict the culture, Coming up with a budget of For those who cannot travel traditions, ecology, environment Rs 10 crore, the project is fully outside of the Capital, the and men-nature relationship. being implemented by the tribal flavour of tribal lifestyle is also This endeavour began with the craftsmen of the Sarguja available at an open air museum, efforts of the artisans and artists region. Purkhauti Muktangan being who have given shape to this (The writer is a senior journalist)

42 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019

Tourism Kokkarebellur: A village known for bird-human relationship

engaluru : Kokkarebellur village, declared as Bthe only community reserve in Karnataka, located approximately 80 km from Bangalore, is named after the unique relationship the people have with the painted storks and spot-billed pelicans that have been migrating to the area for centuries to breed. The Kokkarebellur Community Reserve is the seventh important biodiversity hotspot as recognised by the Karnataka Government. It is designated as an ‘Important Bird’ area. The wetlands were a perennial source of water for the people of the region and supported the varied biodiversity the region had to offer. Due to various pressures on the water sources, this area has, however, become completely dry and in turn is affecting its biodiversity. An Interpretation Centre has Apart from the pelicans, the Birds are seen nesting in been launched in Karnataka other birds found nestling and clusters of 15 to 20 pairs per tree by WWF-India in partnership breeding in the village trees and are thought to use the same with HSBC under the aegis of are the painted stork (Ibis tree each year. They arrive after the HSBC Water Programme. leucocephalus), little cormorant monsoon rains end in September It highlights the unique (Phalacrocorax niger), black when the birds create their bond shared by the people of ibis (Pseudibis papillosa), grey nests, lay eggs from October Kokkarebellur and the birds, and heron (Ardea cinerea), black- to November, thereafter fledge is a step towards developing a crowned night heron (Nycticorax around for three months after sustainable community-centric nycticorax) and Indian pond laying of eggs, till March and eco-tourism model. heron (Ardeola grayii). tirelessly feed their hatchlings

44 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 through the summer season. informative for visitors. 917 of them have volunteered As summer peaks in May, they It will be jointly maintained by almost nine thousand hours re-migrate, year after year, The Hejjare Belaga, Panchayat, to make it happen. I take this except when they sense drought Department of Tourism, Forest opportunity to thank WWF- conditions in their colonial Department and WWF-India for India for their partnership that habitat. three years while also working provides opportunities for our The main species that nest towards mitigation of threats employees to support community in Kokkarebellur – the spot- to birds and their habitats, programmes.'' billed pelican (Pelecanus the partnership will further Secretary General and CEO, phillipensis) and painted stork strengthen the knowledge base on WWF-India Ravi Singh said, (Ibis leucocephalus) are given the ecosystem in Kokkarebellur, ''The Interpretation Centre at the conservation status of “near highlighting the significance Kokkarebellur is a wonderful threatened category” in the IUCN of and the threats to the opportunity for insight to the Red List of 2008. biodiversity, and allied individual biodiversity of the region. Famous The Interpretation Centre and collective actions that can for its spot-billed pelicans and has been re-opened to build contribute to conservation with an painted storks, Kokkarebellur is awareness on conservation endeavor to motivate and sustain known for the co-existence of the and enhance the profile of this efforts towards the heronry’s birds with the local community. important bird area. The initiative conservation. Working in partnership with the aims to develop the project as an The Karnataka Government government, HSBC and other ecosystem model managed and will work towards enhancing organisations, we hope that owned by the community. Besides the profile of this important initiatives like these go a long living alongside birds for several community reserve and promote it way in building awareness of the centuries, the people of this as a unique ecotourism destination importance of such areas and village have also come together in Karnataka.” Kokkarebellur is inspire people to play an integral and rejuvenated many smaller one of the 21 breeding sites of role in conserving biodiversity wetlands in and around the village the spot-billed pelicans, a near across the country.'' resulting in an increase of foraging threatened species, in South India. President of Gram Panchayat, sites for birds. Head of Operations, Global Kokkarebellur Lakshmi Swamy This unique centre shows the Service Centres, HSBC, Subir said, ''The birds are a part of our journey through the lives of these Mehra said, ''The success of lives; the Interpretation Centre birds and their amazing friends. HSBC Water Programme lies is expected to open up new The information related to them in the positive impact it has on avenues for revenue generation has been creatively packaged the communities it touches. The for conservation. We are excited and disseminated through credit for the change we see in and are ready to become a hub for various panels, wall paintings, Kunigal and Kokkarebellur goes eco-tourism.'' life size models of important to the unfailing commitment She urged the people to visit birds of the area and interactive shown by HSBC colleagues the centre and carry on with the exhibits, making it interesting and — over the past three years conservation efforts. 

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 45 Tech

'Manovue' to replace centuries old 'Braille' Real life experiences made me pursue the path of serving humanity through my skills of technology. eet 23-year-old intelligent personal assisting Hailing from Faridabad Sharma Roopam Sharma best system for the visually impaired is an Indian scientist broke into Mknown for his work that is likely to replace the Foreign Policy Magazine's 100 on 'Manovue,' the world's first centuries-old Braille system. global thinkers list alongside Bill

46 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 a voice command to activate the from a socio-economic device. The device has a camera background like mine, youth on the index finger which starts like me aren’t supposed to scanning the surrounding. pursue research, development When it sees any printed or entrepreneurship. If lucky material, the device extracts enough, we go to college, get a the text and speaks out aloud degree and then be among 15

Gates, Barack Obama, Jeff Bezos whatever is written over there. lakh graduates who are on a and Stephen Hawking. In an interaction with lookout for a job. That was my Roopam is one of the top 8 Jaison Wilson, Sharma plan, but due to the real life innovators under 35 by the MIT spoke candidly about his experiences that made me pursue Technology Review for the year endeavours and future the path of serving humanity 2016 in India. Recently, he has plans. through my skills of technology, been named in Forbes Asia’s 30 From a small town boy to I became an inventor. When I under 30 list! started working on Manovue, I His innovation--Manovue — a personality that stands never intended to stand among a device that has been defined among Steve Jobs and Elon any named personality like the as the ‘world’s first intelligent Musk, how will you describe above mentioned but I simply wearable visual assistant.’ The wanted to solve the problem operation of the device is simple your journey? of illiteracy among the visually as the user can wear this device Miraculous! I was never impaired. Working with the on her/his hand. He or she gives raised to be a scientist. Coming community has provided me a

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 47 Tech

The operation of the device is simple as the user can wear this device on her/ his hand. He or she gives a voice command to activate the device. The device has a camera on the index finger which starts scanning the surrounding. When it sees any printed

material, the device I’m a first generation applicability in practice and as a extracts the text and entrepreneur and inventor long term solution that serves as speaks out aloud holding bachelors of technology an alternate to Braille. degree in computer science and What are you doing whatever is written engineering degree. Both my over there. parents are middle class retired presently and what are seniors. I am the youngest of your future plans/goals? different perspective towards life three siblings. At present, I’m alongside and it has been a great learning Your innovation 'Manovue' my team at Eyeluminati, and evolving experience for me a tech company based in personally. is considered as a substitute Washington DC is working on What is your background of the centuries-old Manovue and making sure the 'Braille', how do you rate technology is affordable in the and tell us about your least income settings. In the family? its applicability in practice future, Manovue's technology Over the last few years, I and how long it will take to can also benefit people who have been deeply involved replace the old system? are illiterate or have dyslexia, in researching the bottom- second language learners, and of-the-pyramid market to The initial test results show tourists in need of translation, understand their needs related that Manovue provides endless young children learning their to accessibility, healthcare and possibilities for education, first language or even people education. I generate social achievement and independence recovering from brain trauma. impact through disruptive for the Visually Impaired Manovue can also provide technological inventions and Community eliminating the need distraction free reading and solve perennial problems using for the current tactile system. learning experience to the exponential technologies such as We’re consistently iterating patients of Attention- Artificial intelligence, internet of the device to make it more deficit/hyperactivity disorder things and robotics. user friendly and enhancing its (ADHD). 

48 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 Okinawa bags Tirupati Smart City project, provides 105 i-Praise scooters to corporation

kinawa Scooters, a like – Remote Immobilize, Geo- latest detachable Li-ion 100 per cent Indian Fencing, Trips, Tracking and battery technology that helps Oelectric two-wheeler Monitoring, Driver Score, Find the batteries to be charged manufacturing company, my Scooter. anywhere, resulting in bagged the tender to equip the On the special request to uninterrupted e-mobility for the holy city with e-scooters to address the public or pilgrimage MCT staff. facilitate internal city touring these e-scooters have been Remarking on the vision and crowd management for the installed with Speakers and behind the decision, the Municipal Corporation Tirupati Sirens for public addressing in Municipal corporation (MCT) staff. the city. Commissioner said,“We are Okinawa’s headquarter is The e-scooters offered by glad to welcome 105 Okinawa located in JMD Megapolis, Okinawa are a part of this i-Praise scooters to the city and Gurugram while the massive transition towards are looking forward to the great manufacturing facility was in becoming a spiritual city operational efficiency we expect Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. equipped with the latest features them to provide. It may be noted here that the that enrich a devotee’s spiritual With these zero emission company had launched i-Praise journey further by making it e-scooters it would not help electric scooter at Rs 1.15 lakh more secure and convenient. our staff for the internal city in Lucknow in January this The Tirupati Municipal surveillance but would also help year. Corporation is spread across an in curbing the pollution level in Okinawa has provided 105 area of 27.44Sq Km and includes city, he said that we are looking “i-Praise – The Intelligent 50 Wards, which demands forward for making Tirupati, a Scooter” to the holy city, a strong surveillance and smart and a pollution free city. customized according to design municipal system to take care of The i-Praise scooters have specifications suggested by the the needs of the devotees. been further equipped with Tirupati Municipal Corporation Commenting on the speakers and sirens to help (TMC) Commissioner Vijay association, Okinawa Scooter make public announcements Rama Raju V, said. Managing Director Jeetender and let the people know about These e-scooters for Tirupati Sharma, said, the i-Praise the presence of city guards, he is equipped with smart features fleet is equipped with the added. 

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 49 Tech

Rajendra Prasad Singh, General Secretary INTUC, spoke about the unique strengths of TWU and said that TWU is the only one amongst our affiliated Unions which will be completing a hundred Tata Workers’ years and it is indeed a momentous Union celebrates occasion for us."

Tata Steel lauded the efforts of centenary year the Union and said that in every crisis, the union came together ata Workers’ Union the strength and maturity of with the management to find (TWU), one of the Tata Workers’ Union. Along and implement solutions. Tearliest trade unions with celebration of the glorious Ravi Prasad, President, Tata founded in India and which past, we also need to think Workers’ Union said that these continues to be a role model for about the future and focus on are historic moments for the achieving industrial harmony people, process, culture and union as it stands at the cusp through pioneering practices capabilities," he said. of completing a hundred years. and frameworks, launched its Rajendra Prasad Singh, This has been possible solely due centenary year celebrations at General Secretary INTUC, spoke to the spirit of working together the Michael John Auditorium at about the unique strengths of which is core ethos at Tata Jamshedpur in Jharkhand. TWU and said that TWU is the Workers Union. Founded on Chief Executive Officer and only one amongst our affiliated March 5, 1920 as Jamshedpur Managing Director of Tata Steel Unions which will be completing Labour Association the Limited TV Narendran said that a hundred years and it is indeed organisation received support a 100-year old Union itself is a a momentous occasion for us." and guidance from national rarity. I congratulate both TWU and leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, "In the last hundred years, Tata Steel Management on this Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, there have been only eleven stupendous achievement." Motilal Nehru, Dr Rajendra presidents and this reflects Suresh Dutt Tripathi VP HRM Prasad and CF Andrews. 

50 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019

Sports

Sports Science – key weapon in MP’s arsenal Chief of Bureau Prashant Kumar Jain in an exclusive with Director (Sports and Youth Welfare) SL Thaosen, IPS

hopal : Keeping in view players and coaches invest a the fact that ‘Sports tremendous quantum of effort BScience’ plays a vital role but despite that the outcome is in honing Madhya Pradesh’s not outstanding. The principal talents so that their performance reason is that trainers and witnesses further improvement, sportspersons often neglect assistance is being sought from Sports Science aspects.” experts. For instance, an athlete’s During an interaction in the performance and the use state capital, Director (Sports of machines by specialists and Youth Welfare) SL Thaosen to evaluate the same would – an Indian Police Service officer determine whether the person adorning the post for more possesses the capability to than a year – averred, “The advance in that particular experiment is yielding positive discipline. Is the result matching results that shall be clearly endeavours? Expert advice visible to one and all in the near would help the sportsperson in future. It is often observed that giving his or her best on the field

52 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 so that more medals are won for the state and the country. “Nourishment and behavioural science also make crucial contributions. If a player toils but his or her intake is unscientific then an adverse impact on results is a certainty. Numerous sportspersons perform well during exercise but disappoint in competition. In such situations, psychological counselling is imperative. Therefore, I have provided them the services of physiotherapists, psychologists and sports nutritionists as well. Sports scientists are now part of various academies in Madhya Pradesh. The attempt shall be to regularise their services. Sports Besides bringing modern In the context of development that will serve as a medium technology into the picture, work undertaken at the local for talents to shine at national there is an attempt to ensure TT Nagar Stadium over the and international levels are greater tandem activity on part past 12 months, the officer being encouraged. Women’s of officials and coaches, he said, “Besides bettering sports football is one. Weightlifting, explained and expressed his facilities, the Department is equestrian, shooting, golf, etc desire to have officials mingle emphasising that players toil also hold promise,” Mr Thaosen with players in order to boost ceaselessly and seriously by said. and assess the latter. shedding any casual attitude.” 

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 53 Entertainment Popular Assame se mobile theatre staged in Bengaluru

By Sushmita Goswami Karnataka capital. This not- he famous mobile theatre for-profit initiative was taken of Assam (locally called up in collaboration with the T‘Bhramyamaan’ theatre) Awahan Theatre group and the had long ago touched shores greater Assamese community afar with its fame, and it has in Bengaluru, such as East now crossed the geographical Bangalore Bihu Committee, limits of the state to reach its Assam Association Bangalore connoisseurs beyond. With the (AAB), Assam Society of glory of entertaining theatre- Bangalore (ASOB), and lovers in the state for several Srimanta Shankardev Cultural decades behind it, Awahan Society Bangalore (SSCSB), that mobile theatre group has this highlights the unique blend of year performed in far-away trust, mutual understanding Bengaluru, drawing thousands and respect, and a passion concept prevalent only in Assam to it performances. for theatre and arts that is with a very large fan following The theatre group performed striving to bring the best of for many decades now as it has three of its popular plays at mobile theatre to the doorsteps been able to establish a strong Bengaluru in April this year, of Bengaluru without any connect with the audience on invitation from the diaspora commercial underpinnings. in Assam via its numerous Assamese community in the Mobile theatre is a unique well received and popular

54 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 staged plays by combining the performance art of traditional play acting with modern cinematic techniques. This was the first time that Awahan Theatre performed outside the state of Assam and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the theatre enthusiasts of Bengaluru to experience the unique concept of ‘Bhramyamaan Theatre’, where the entire theatre troupe of more than 90 people comprising of actors, directors, technicians, stage hands, etc. along with two truckloads of equipment and stage materials traveled to Bengaluru to perform to get an experience of this invited a mobile theatre group the three plays, just the way they unique Assamese theatre from back home, the Assamese would move from one location form. In audience were community of over 60,000 to another in Assam carrying prominent personalities of people in the southern city along all the equipments and the arts and theatre circuit of has been strongly retaining accessories. Bengaluru, including National their connect and love for their The three plays staged were School of Drama (South) roots, while also assimilating ‘Mokorajal’, ‘Madhuri Mur director Basavalingiah Basu, themselves in the cultural ethos Naam’ and ‘Moi Mar Suwali’. Bhagirathi Bai Kadam, Sandeep and professional ambiance While the opening night on Shikhar, Abhishek Majumdar, of the city. There are various April 26 drew limited audience, Chaanakya Vyas and MD groups and associations within this larger Assamese community and depending on their varied interests, they have been organizing numerous socio- cultural events like Rongali Bihu and Magh Bihu (traditional festivals of Assam in April and January respectively), Durga Puja, fund raising Music concerts and festivals, etc. for the past several years. In addition to these activities, a ‘Naamghar’ – a place for congregational worship or a prayer house dedicated to Lord the next two performances Pallavi. Assamese residing Krishna and the Ekasarana witnessed nearly 1200 in nearby cities of Bengaluru Vaishnavite sect of Hinduism spectators each night. While the also travelled to watch the unique to Assam, has also Assamese community formed performances and relive old been setup to further imbibe the majority of the audience, memories for many. the Assamese culture of unity, non-Assamese speakers also While this was the first time harmony and spiritual devotion thronged with their friends that the diaspora in Bangaluru amongst the community. 

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 55 Entertainment 1969 was a Game Changing Year for the Hindi Film Industry By Jaskiran Chopra (Chirag), “Aaney se uske aaye ifty years ago ,in the bahaar, jaane se uske jaaye year 1969 , something bahaar”(Jeenay ki Raah), “Ni Fhappened in the world Sultana Re, Pyaar ka mausam of Hindi cinema which brought about a sea change. This winter of this year turned out to be something unprecedented in the industry. The entire year , upto the month of November, saw a flood of box office hits starring handsome and talented actors like Dev Anand, Dharmendra, Sunil Dutt, Feroz Khan, Shammi Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor, Rajendra Kumar and Jeetendra, and actresses like Asha Parekh, Sharmila Tagore Saira Banu, Babita, Hema Malini and Vyjayanthimala . The films that made quite a buzz that year aaya” (Pyaar ka Mausam), to bring in the King of hearts included Jeenay ki Raah, Pyar “Badan pe Sitaare lapete hue” who would , for a few years, ka Mausam, Tumse Achcha (Prince), “Yakeen kar lo mujhe rule, unopposed, the screen Kaun Hai, Pyar hi Pyar, mohabbat hai tumse tumse” and audiences as no one before Anjaana, Mahal ,Aaya Sawan (Yakeen), “ Badra Chhaaye ke him had done. He was Rajesh Jhhoom ke, Chirag , Aadmi aur jhhule pad gaye haaye” (Aya Khanna, the first superstar of Insaan, Prince and Yakeen. All Saawan Jhhoom ke) and” Main Indian cinema. He had appeared of them had songs that captured kahin Kavi na bann jaaun tere in a couple of films in 1966 and the hearts of audiences and pyaar mein aye Kavita” (Pyar 1967. But it was only in 1969 are still hummed. Some of the hi Pyar ). The list is endless. that Aradhana took the nation songs from these evergreen hits Melody was surely the queen by storm and Khanna was are “Teri Aankhon ke Siwaa in the 1960s , the golden era of declared a superstar overnight! Duniya mein rakha kya hai” Indian cinema. But 1969 was For the next four years, there

56 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019 Aradhana. With this song, Khanna and Kishore Da became associated with each other, giving the audiences many marvellous songs in the next few years. Do Raaste which was released in December 1969 was a great hit which again had a beautiful song of Kishore da “Khizaa’n ke phhool pe aati kabhi bahaar nahin”. It was “Kaka” (as Rajesh Khanna was fondly called and Kishore Da all the way after the winter of 1969! Some of the other heroes did re-appear in the 1970s but their looks of the 1960s had would be no one else who could be even close to him. All the handsome and beautiful stars began to fade away and only he shone on the silver screen. This is how he changed the industry. He delivered 17 consecutive blockbuster hits from 1969 and 1973. Never before and never after him had any star created such frenzy. It is indeed interesting to observe that November 7, 1969, saw the release of Aradhana as well as Saat Hindustani. It trying times for Bachchan for changed greatly and they could was on the same day that two whom the lucky film came in never recapture the magic of the 27 year old actors began to be 1973 (Zanjeer) which was the Golden 60s. Action films saw recognized –one in a manner beginning of his success story. some of these romantic heroes that was unprecedented and While the superstar began in a different. Not so charming the other was acknowledged fading, the “angry young man” “Avatar”. The two actors who in his quiet role of one of the was well on the rise in 1973. had appeared on screen towards seven men who fought for the It was also in 1969 that the the end of 1969 changed the liberation of Goa in this film game changed for the extremely way in which these other actors of Khwaja Ahmad Abbas. He talented and powerful singer would be seen by audiences. would go on to become the “star Kishore Kumar. He was now After Khanna’s charmed years of the millennium” and a living the voice of the Superstar and began the Bachchan era that also legend just like Rajesh Khanna. his fame knew no bounds. The captured the imagination of the He was Amitabh Bachchan. song that brought in Kishore nation. The year 1969 was thus This shows us how important Da and made Mohammad the last year that saw so many that year was. The nest four Rafi sa’ab take a back seat for romantic, musical box office hits years would see the meteoric some years was “Mere Sapno with a great variety of heroes and rise of Khanna and the most ki Raani Kab Aayegi tu” from heroines. 

September 2019 | www.developingindiamirror.com 57 Sports

Bhavna Bhave Tokekar (47) – a mother of two adolescents – has emphatically stated that she definitely isn’t the average lady, and how? She bagged four golds during the Open Asian Power-lifting Championships at the west-central Russian city of Chelyabinsk in July.

Iron woman, iron will

By Abhijit C. Chandra Shreepad Tokekar – an Indian In Russia, she competed hopal: So, what’s the Air Force fighter pilot who is an in the Under 67.5 Masters-2 daily routine of married Operation Safed Sagar (Kargil) Category. The Indian contingent Bwomen in their late hero and posted in the Madhya comprised 14 sportspersons. forties? Oh, that’s an easy one Pradesh capital. Bhavna’s Though confident, Bhavna was – office-goer / homemaker, acquaintance with the gym took also edgy but had a word of kitchen, managing teen-aged place when she began exercising praise for the genial Russians. kids, watching TV – the works. to combat side-effects of She is a Maharashtrian born Well, right and wrong! medication. Her inspiration was in Madhya Pradesh’s Vidisha Bhavna Bhave Tokekar (47) the World Powerlifting Congress’ and brought up in Gujarat. – a mother of two adolescents Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh Bhavna represented Panchmahal – has emphatically stated that head Mohammed Azmat who District in table tennis while at she definitely isn’t the average eventually guided her. school. Later in life, her hubby lady, and how? She bagged four “I do an hour of Zumba / provided unalloyed support and golds during the Open Asian aerobics every morning and their kids helped around the Power-lifting Championships a couple of hours of weight house. Corporal Aruvi A. is her at the west-central Russian city training each evening, round guru and she trained under him of Chelyabinsk in July. And the year. It’s not that I only for two-and-a-half years. this was her first international do my powerlifting practice, Even millennium megastar tournament! About half-a- my foremost priority is my Amitabh Bachchan had a word decade back, she was not in family. I’m a proud wife and a of praise for Bhavna’s success. this arena at all though having proud mother first and then a She is seeking a sponsor for the run a couple of half marathons sportsperson,” Bhavna told this world championship slated for with her spouse Group Captain correspondent. this winter in Moscow. 

58 www.developingindiamirror.com | September 2019

RNI Registration NO. DELENG/2015/60743