At the centre of Non-violence stands the Principle of Love

Non-violence is the instrument for the strong, for the ones who have mastered the art of love, self-control and are pure from within. It is far easy to become violent with the crowd; just a flex of muscles and external energy with negative vibes required. But non-violence requires a lot more than that- the mind, body and soul alike. It is possible to be non-violent only when your inner fight, the fight between mind and heart, logic and feelings and the conscience and the superficial level, is resolved. When one is at friendly terms with one's external and internal system, then only can one move on to the next step, the one that follows non-violence- Love. But it brings us back to the same step before non-violence- Love; as it is a cyclic process. Only when one can love himself can he use the tool of non-violence for the others. The universe exists on the foundation of love' it is omnipresent, just like the unseen, the Almighty. Where there is love, there is the Creator and it's Creations. This can be subdued, buried deep and erased when our love flows everywhere just as there is no place for darkness when there is light. But, today, the opposite is what happens. Hatred increases every moment in the absence of love. We are getting weaker day by day. As we can't experience love, we don't move on to non-violence; no purification of the soul and no self-control. We indulge in violence that follows hatred prevalent in the present times. Non-violence not only eliminates violence but also the violence within. The struggle for success should not accompany hatred as it would only intensify its degree in the world. To cut off this chain, we have to project the ethics of love at the centre of our lives. When there is affection and teamwork in place of cut-throat competition, the results will be fruitful and more rewarding. Let us strive to make a society, an education system and our parenting full of love, so that the future witnesses well groomed humans with a non-violent outlook.

Students' Oxygen movement view

06/12/2009

OLD BOOKS CAN BRING REVOLUTION

Holistic state is a condition in which an individual is physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually well. A country can be in holistic state only when its states, finance, management etc. is in good condition, that is, a country with a better literacy rate, employment oriented education system and ample employment opportunity. India is facing numerous problem- illiteracy, unemployment, poverty and deteriorated education system. Until and unless these problems are solved, India can’t achieve the mark of developed country. Each problem can be solved by imparting quality education to the masses. But the question is- Shall we be able to give quality education to the children when education is so expensive and the economic condition is so low? A book is a bag of knowledge but changing the book sets every year with some modification, it is not only costing the pockets of parents but also our state and environment. Lakhs of books are published for each academic session with little modification and parents are forced to buy those books. It means crores of rupees and thousands of trees are going in waste every year. If students are allowed to use old books for at least two years, by receiving from up going students and giving to their followers as gift, we can save crores of rupees as well as teach them a moral lesson. We do the personal problems of students. Problems could be:- a sense of personal belonging may not come, the condition of books can be disturbing, useless pencil/pen marks on them, workbooks can’t be exchanged, modification in content material is excluded and some students may feel a sense of inferiority complex but each problem can be solved if we have to make a better society. Students will have to be little careful, that is, try to use your books as holy books, preserve your books for your followers, mark with pencil if necessary, inculcate a habit of keeping your study material neat and get photo copied all additional topics in your new syllabus. We urge to the educational community to think about it so that it may be implemented soon. We want a educational reform through old books, which is going to save crores of rupees and thousands of trees. Since our aim is to make education the biggest issue, we try to make the people aware about the obstacles in the journey of making education the biggest issue. Ignorance of educational community in this regard has made education a luxary, not a need and book sharing can be one of the most important step in bringing educational reform.

Students' Oxygen movement view

29/11/2009

Thanking-Questioning Campaign

Human beings are the most evolved species on earth. Unlike other living beings, man is mentally advanced and has attained high levels of personal competences in social and spiritual domains. From the Stone Age to this modern, hi-tech era, the needs and aspirations of an individual and of the society as a whole have changed. The present day society should meet the primary standards of living for the people thriving in it. It is the collective responsibility of the government and the people to reach out to others and extend these facilities to all, considering the society as their family. Amidst the hullabaloo of this busy life, we have to ensure that none sleeps with an empty stomach. There has to be a proper Public Distribution system that provides the essential provisional access to everyone. The society can't prosper if its entire people can't avail decent food and clothing. It is said, “A healthy mind rests in a healthy body”, and rightly so, for if a society has to be healthy, there is a need for hospitals and dispensaries that provide an appropriate healthcare system for the people. Irrespective of the economic status of the people, this healthcare provision has to be for everyone. After these needs that help in the well being of a person, there's one more thing that is instrumental in the all round development of an individual- Education. Education provides knowledge and wisdom combined with values that help in the formation of a better society. When our society will have educated people, there will always be a qualitative output from them.

Students' Oxygen movement view

22/11/2009

When will we celebrate real children’s day?

Children are the special creation of God. They have an essence of Godliness. They are full of innocence, love and inquisition. Children are pure at heart and they are full of positivity and optimism. They’ll never give up a task till it is complete and learn with their own speed. In a way, the best examples of ideal human beings are children. God has given each one of us a sense of discretion and by using this virtue, they can learn on their own by practical skills. But what is the reason that when the children start getting older turn into selfish human beings? It is the system and the society that is causing this flaw in us. Had they not been touched by this defunct system, they wouldn’t have changed into snobbish beings. The best way to bring up children is to nurture as they are, let their virtues flourish and give them their own space and time to grow. But in today’s world, we don’t just need to grow in a crude manner but polish our skills, virtues and character with the tool called education. We need to experience the miraculous power we have got to feel the presence of God in each one of us. Today’ sadly, the meaning of education, human beings, spirituality has changed. Now, people believe in buying happiness with money and they miss out on the most beautiful and spectacular moments and joys in life. He who has a childlike innocence will be able to enjoy the morning dew or the nature’s view but others who have become scientific robots, far away from Godliness and spirituality are busy minting money with the tool called education, that now teaches how to earn.Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru dreamed of an India in which all children would get their own time, space and education and flourish spiritually. But this dream remains unrealized as many children aren’t able to study and grow and those who study, are not getting the proper environ to prosper.A real Children’s day will be celebrated when their Godliness grows with the help of education. On this Children’s day, and on the birthday of Pandit Nehru, let’s pray for all the children that they keep the childlike spirit and salute the man who helped instill a dream in our minds.

Students' Oxygen movement view

15/11/2009

Does Education Enable us to Identify between the Right and the Wrong?

Education is necessary for every individual. It is not a commodity, but it is a system of values, a bundle of knowledge, a form of belief and the key for constructive development. Education opens the eyes of a person to see what is right and what is wrong. A real educated person is one who has a sense of discernment and a strong character. Education forms the foundation of one's life, nurturing him/her with values, spiritual and moral, and along with theoretical knowledge, extra-curricular activities and vocational training, helps in the overall development. It teaches us the way of life and helps us implement whatever we have learnt. In today's society also, where we witness the changed meaning of education, there is a need to bring about a change in this flawed system of education. Unlike the real preaching of education, in today's times we are taught only the theoretical matter contained in books and that too in a manner that helps us only to score marks in examinations and earn good money in the future. Education is sold in schools like a product and its sole teaching is the importance of money in one's life. The 'so-called' educated people are busy minting money for themselves and increasing their bank balances, caring nothing for the source or the means. Our education system is giving us the power to decipher between the right and the wrong but more than succeeding in this aspect, it has failed to do so; the reason being the modified education system according to the needs of the ambitious few. We, the students and the future decision makers have realized that this system needs support, modification and improvement and its time when we start spreading this message to our society. Let's start from today, from our level and each of us take small steps towards a big change.

Students' oxygen movement view

08/11/09

The ultimate result of education- Money?

Human beings are the greatest creation of God and are consecrated with the sense of discretion that helps us to decipher between the right and wrong. But it seems that we have started losing our sense of judgment as we see less of this quality in the society. The reason for this is not very hard to find. After oxygen, food and water, the necessities for our survival comes education, crucial for the spiritual and mental growth of every person. Education gives a strong foundation to our life and makes us who we are. It is not a limited process; instead, we keep learning things till the end. We'll be called educated when we receive a proper training for an all round development from our parents, school and society. Education beautifies a person, enhancing his character and helping him to relate with his conscience that tells us what is right and what is wrong. But today, we see a changed face of education. The real meaning of education in our society is to hold degrees on paper followed by a good job with a heavy package. We are counseled by everyone around us regarding various career options that can help us become an educated person. This is the reason why we are getting money-minded and are losing our sense of discretion. How can we know what is right when the only thing we see around is money-orientedness and a dearth of moral values. But we can't say that our society is wrong; instead, the education system is deficient. When one pays heavily for his child's education that comprises of books with temporary mugging up minus values for life, the person the person will surely expect a heavy pay packet in return. But we need to question ourselves- Is money the ultimate result of education ? A life in which mankind should be our business, charity, honesty, brotherhood and peace should be our business; it is replaced with selfishness and greed for oneself. Let us strive to rectify this system by bringing a change in ourselves, that is, by inculcating more value based education, being concerned for others, living as a global family and building bridges instead of walls. This will help us redefine the real meaning of education.

Students' oxygen movement view

01/11/09

Anger produces anger

In this world, every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Like for instance, when sound is produced in an open area or an empty room, the same sound comes back to us in the form of an echo. Another very suitable example is of the abstract noun very widely used- Anger. This negative element is very much into practice. The people, who have seen anger, will show anger. We can say that anger produces anger. The softest target for this practice is children. If they show anger, where does it come from? The answer is- from their parents, teachers, television, media and the society. They see anger around and learn to behave in the same way. Their mistakes are followed by scolding and discouragement which is the cause of lack of self- confidence. Instead of being encouraged to do better next time and learn from their mistakes, they face criticism and get disheartened. They stop trying out new activities and hence, all this leads to a narrow view of the world. In defense they become introvert and instead of trying out new things, they say a straight ‘NO’ or show anger. This anger bars the creativity of children and they start thinking in a particular way or direction. Slowly, these negative aspects creep into their lives and with their growth, these qualities take a place in their character, personality and body language. These children, who, when grow up, behave in the same way as they were subjected to and their attitude regarding their responsibilities towards the society is also of the same kind. They give what they got- anger. Isn’t this a kind of crime? Why are we creating cruel beings out of pure and innocent minds leading to disturbance in society? We need to make this place a better one by being kind, good and polite to everyone which will produce able, responsible and creative human beings and ultimately a happy society. Life is too short for anger and sadness, let’s live with happiness and spread positive vibes around. A good deed or a good word always shines and enlightens the world.

Students' Oxygen movement view

11/10/2009

STUDENTS’ COUNCIL .... A NEED

Every child has ideas that he/she would like the world to know. Ideasthat are radical, ideas that have the potential to change the face ofthe world. But these ideas remain locked in their minds and ultimatelyperish. If only we could give these ideas a medium for experssion, they would manifest themselves into concrete action in the long run.These ideas that stem from creativity and also the resentment towards the present education systems that kills it, need to be heard. Itwould ultimately result into positive change towards the betterment ofthe generations to come. We suggest the formation of a Student Council in schools of the city that would have coordinators of each student through their chosen representatives. These coordinators would collect ideas from students on how they think the education system can be improved. Ideas worth noting would be given a medium such as the weekly newsletter, the website or a student magazine that reach out to other students as well as important people of the state. These ideas could range from all aspects of education such as sports, arts, social service, musicor environmental concerns. Each class, that is from grades 8 to 12,would have two class coordinators and each school would have twostudents who would represent the school and co-ordinate thefunctioning of class representatives in that school. The school coordinators would be co-ordinated by five City co-ordinators who would, ideally, concentrate on one aspect of education apart from seeing over the general concerns. The idea is to unite the student force and make every voice heard. The power of the youth can be harnessed only by organized effort and channeling their unsurpassed energy in areas that can make a huge difference in the society. It is an appeal to students to come out of their shells and make their presence felt.

Oxygen... a movement view

04/10/2009

Expectations from the New Government

There is the new government and there are the expectations… Unexpectedly, today’s discussion witnessed a turn from the Main Topic “Expectations from Educated People and Education System’ to ‘Expectations from the New Government’. It was time they started discussing their expectations from the new government. India, being the largest democracy of the world experiences the largest phase of elections spread of a greater time span than any other democracy. They say, 'Expectations are endless'. Does that mean that we leave expecting? Afterall, when the people went out to vote, when they were the ones who were pleaded to or requested to be the kingmakers, then does it not become their responsibility to question and get answers back.Students, talking about their expectations from the new government led special impetus over Education. They were of an idea that the country needed development and the much needed development could not be brought about sans education. We have several problems facing our country today, for example unemployment, corruption, casteism, regionalism, child labour, child marriage, pollution and intellectual bankruptcy, but education is the sole solution to all these problems. Sadly, though, we never let education take the center stage in our list of concerns. If our system provides good education to each and every child and if every child attends school, will there be any scope for child labour? Issues such as child marriage would automatically vanish from society. No one would remain unemployed after receiving vocational education and social menaces such as casteism, regionalism and corruption would be rooted out if children are imparted such education that teaches love for all, derives inspiration from morals and stands for honesty and truth. With an education that stresses upon the need for judicious use of available resources, children would never grow up to harm the environment since these values would be deeply rooted in their hearts and souls. The government is indeed expected to ensure Social Security to Food, Health and Education. It must also create a strong Public Distribution System. It must ensure Universal Elementary Education. Last but not the least, Students expected the Government to realize their Dream School for them and for all.

Oxygen... a movement view

24/05/2009

Dream School 2009

What witnessed a flow of energy, rush of adrenaline, and a plethora of ideas was none other than Patna's largest Interschool Event - 'Dream School 2009'. On the pleasant morning of 28th April- School buses, students, teachers and other enthusiasts had already started thronging the place - even before it was time to say 'Welcome!',- atleast an hour before the reporting time.It was a journey through 60 schools of Patna, a journey of 1 and a half months, an epochal journey to let students dare, dream, think and talk about their 'Dream School'- a school that they visualised, a school that they had craved for since the very first day back at their own school. The journey through 60 schools- more than 10,000 students was indeed an exciting one. And here was what it culminated into - the Finals of Dream School 2009 at the beatiful auditorium called the Bhartiya Nritya Kala Mandir. It was a journey powered by Oxygen... a movement and carried out by the Event Director Sharad Vivek Sagar and Coordinator Chitranshu Tewari- both prominent student leaders of Oxygen and the city.
The event started with Chitranshu, coming onstage welcoming the people and introducing them to the Host of the event. Sharad Vivek Sagar, the Director of the event 'Dream School 2009', played an able Master of Ceremonies for the event keeping the audience involved and cheering all the way lest he signed off calling it a day.The Host announed the semi-final open. The Semifinal was a written round of thirty minutes wherein the students answered a common question - 'Why should your Dream School be chosen as an Idea Dream School?' Adding up the points of the Pre-finals stage(i.e. the project) and the Semi-finals, TOP 25 teams were picked and put on stage in 5 phases with 5 teams coming onstage at a time talking about themselves and their Project. Thereafter, out of the 25 teams - TOP 10 teams were chosen and put on stage where they faced questions from the Host, Dream Panel, and the audience. The Dream Panel comprised of Convener, Oxygen... a movement Binod Singh, International Climate Champion Barsa and Action for Nature International Eco-Hero Chitranshu Tewari .
After the TOP 10 teams underwent gruelling questions rounds- 7 teams got eliminated and Top 3 teams stepped forward faced the question of the rest of the 7 and finally made it and showed Patna what it takes to be Dream Champ 2009. And, interestingly, for what the host had kept them chanting at the top of their voice, the schools received accolades for that too. Everytime, the crowd seemed low on energy- the question from the host- Which is the best cheering school was just more than enough... that was the day Patna would never like to forget- not just for the cheering , the energy but the IDEAS...Finally, the Vote4Kids Marathon was announced for, where the students will run- to demand for a vote for them... their dreams... and turn the Dream School into a reality not just for a few, but ALL...

Oxygen ... a movement view

28/04/2009

Dream School! But for whom? Me or We

Two children dreamt of their schools. The first one dreamt... a lovely school, with a beautiful garden whose fragnance lights up the entire school, has air-conditioned classrooms, buses, olympic-size swimming pool, a laptop per child and a lot more... he dreamt of an school that utopian for the rest but highly affordable for him and a few of his family and friends. He was satisfied!Another child dreamt of a school- ... a small school not that big nor too small, having good facilities though not lavish, good classes, teachers and he dreamt of such a school for all the children irrespective of the background- financial or social, that they came from. He was willing!Making you a God for a Day or atleast the Education Minister of India atleast because this decision making post can indeed be touted as one of the mighty positions- one whom we can look upto for a better India - Whose dream are you most likely to grant? Before, we enter into the Dream School '09 the day after tomorrow, this is one thing we all must have very clear in our minds.Before, you choose either of the one- a maxim to go by- 'India does not live in its Six Metropolitans but in its Six Lakh Villages.' And for it to develop, India must develop its Six lakh villages with special impetus than just flaunting its metropolitans.Off course! One does wish to grant the wish of the second child - ... a school and for all. We need to talk about it seriously amongst us, our friends and wherever we get a chance to put it up. We don't need Five-Star schools, a normal school with minimum basic facilities would do- but it must be inclusive not exclusive. Talking about the kind of school we want and want for all- our government schools are the ones we can look upto and for this the government needs to ensure the quality in government school and one would be happy to send their children to government-run schools. If there are some of you sitting and wondering - Government Schools??? then, one must take your attention to the premier institutions IITs and IIMs where you spend so-so much of money to get your children in- then why not here, Sir/Mam? The day, our government schools shape up and infact shape up well, that will be the day when we can proudly say- we are on the path of development. Let us talk of inclusive schools not exclusive schools!

Oxygen ... a movement view

26/04/2009

Fear of Police? or God?

Many a times, we come across people sharing their utopian vision for a better world. Too often, do people say that a better world can be established only after we have an able administration, civic sense, strict norms and so on. Overall, we find people of the opinion that the fear instilled in the citizens regarding the norms, regulations and administration is a must so as to have a better country.
We generally come across the statement that only the fear of police and administration can make this country a better place to live in. Let us throw some light on this fear factor. Talking in general, you do not do anything wrong in public as you fear the police. You do not jump traffic signals as you fear the traffic cop. You do not murder, loot, kidnap as you fear the administration. But does it go the same way for all? Do all the people not do the mentioned things due to the fear? Unfortunately, not. Today, we have by large entered into a world where not many people fear the administration. Even amongst the ones who do, they do not care about it in the absence of the keepers of the law.
In such a condition, does one not get the feel of whom to fear? Lets ask ourselves whom to fear: GOD or Cops and Administration. Surprisingly, one finds the presence of God-fearing people as a positive and optimistic sign of a better world. If one has the love for and fear of God, would he indulge himself in something that is morally wrong? Why not start appealing to a man’s soul, the god that is inside of him than to make him fear the police. A god-fearing person would automatically fear the administration too and infact would not do something that is offendable. Let us start creating a society where people have the fear of god and not administration. Well, some people might be thinking of those who do not fear either. Well, for them, there is always an option to resort to judicial actions. But, our foremost aim should be to let people be God-fearing... let them fear the almighty and not just the mighty.

Oxygen... a movement view

29/03/09

Student Council with a Difference!

Students should play an active, positive role in school life and the concept of having Student Council in schools helps to achieve this. It gives students a voice and the opportunity to work in partnership with management and staff to improve their schools. Through this we hope to give students a positive role in the organization of the school thus ensuring that they are listened to and respected for their ideas and concerns. Student Council members should be involved in the decisions, which are made regarding the day-to-day running and management of the school. Discussions and Student Council meetings should be held to develop social and learning skills such as speaking, listening, problem solving and decision making. The concept of having Student Council should aim at involving young people in our school, who feel alienated from the society and have little confidence in their capacity to contribute to bring about change in their area and those who happen to be powerless in a system of governance that rules their lives. It should encourage them to understand why people vote and enables them to actively see the power of a collective voice to stimulate change.Student Council should offer students experiences and provide multi-dimensional approaches initiated by the students themselves via dialogue which encourages enthusiasm and maintains involvement by virtue of achievements. A sense of respect, care and trust should be inculcated in members. Communication between students, teachers, the principal and the board of management should be made paramount. It should offer the children the opportunity to voice their opinion, listen to each other and express their needs via the student body to get what it is they want. The members should be actively involved in the student council, to attend meetings regularly, participate in activities and be a role model for other students. They should try to hone out their hidden qualities and should work for a revamp as they are going to be the part of the active vibrant body which will lead to a better place to live in. It should propose how students can turn their dreams into reality. Finally this should help to prepare an active citizen, an active member of society with an independent way of thinking.

Oxygen... a movement view

22/03/2009

We need Reforms!

“Law” the word in itself creates havoc and its implementation is always questioned. Thousands and thousands of laws are formulated every year but hardly any of them are followed. If laws are not going to be followed, let’s just throw them out. But if the rule of law is to be obeyed, then it is with the younger generation that the process must start. More laws and more directives will change nothing till every one of us is held to account for wrongdoing. There are too many people trapped in a dysfunctional system and it is for them we must keep trying. It is the duty of each and every citizen to look into such issues and work for a great change. The positive side can only be seen if people come out to challenge the conditions in which the vast majority of people live and fight the special interests that maintain such conditions. Even brighter front can be maintained if people question the unjust laws that clamp down on those who oppose it. The essential principle behind all this is that every one of us has the right to speak out, to protest wrong actions, to question laws that they believe are unjust, to question the authorities when they demonstrate unjust behavior. The due process of law must be followed. This is surely the minimum right of every person. It’s this right that is in jeopardy today when people can be arrested for challenging what is happening around them. It is a sad day when threats are issued against those who ask for the due process of law. It is sadder still when people hesitate to speak out on an arrested person’s right to due process for fear that they will be arrested as sympathizers of banned organizations. So, what is badly required today is reformation to build a humane, compassionate and caring society and values that we surely do not want to lose in the race for unethical values. Reformation is all about bringing alignment to what is displaced or malfunctioning in the society and can be clearly seen if each one of us start taking initiatives.

Oxygen ... amovement view

15/03/2009

LET'S ENJOY THE COLOURS OF LIFE!

Every minute, every hour, every day, we are simply in the process of Dying. Yes, Dying. SURPRISING? Isn't it? Yes, we are so much preoccupied with our busy and hectic life schedules that we forget many basic aspects of human lives. There are so many things that seem so insignificant or unimportant. Yet, they build up our life or destroy it, they contribute to our happiness or misery, they are a source of danger or a wheel to progress. It all depends on us that how we take up even the smallest venture of our lives. We waste a large percentage of our energy fretting and fuming in useless anxiety and in complaining.We are very much interested in materialism. We are so much inclined through this materialistic world that we are unable to bring about different other colours in our lives. Colours in life do not only refer to earn livelihood but it also refers to doing each and every activity with full devotion and cheerfulness. Be it fulfilling our social responsibility, working for downtrodden or living our own personal lives. Festivals provide succor from these painful dealings and rejuvenate us with lots of energy and enthusiasm. With festivals round the corner, our difficulties melt away making us cheerful with lots of fun and frolic. Along with happiness, one of the best aspects of festivals is that of SHARING. This reinforces the social bonds between the group who celebrate the festival and shows strength and solidarity to those outside this social group. Here comes Holi and every nook and corner presents a typically colorful sight. People bury their hatchets with a warm embrace and throw their worries to the wind and greet even their enemies with a big bright SMILE. BUT it is bad to be extravagant in celebration instead we should take time to help the needy, poor and old people and share our happiness with them also. Let's take the pledge this Holi to make it HOLY in real sense and try to bring SMILE on every single person's face. Finally A Very Colourful Holi to one and all!

Oxygen... a movement view

8/03/2009

The Literacy of the Whole Personality

"An education system isn't worth great deal if it teaches young people how to make a living but doesn't teach them how to make life." The above line is rightly said and it clearly defines the true essence of an education system. Literacy is the superficial aspect of any system where as "Literacy of the Whole Personality" is the soul of that very system. "Literacy of the Whole Personality" means to train our hands, eyes, mind and heart in such a way that they never do things against humanitarian principle. In other words we need to train our Gen Next in a way that ensures to inculcate ethical and morale values. It should be planned in such a way that it may enable our young people to remain loyal to their spiritual ideas and ideals. Love of God, country and humanity; sympathy, tolerance, impeccable honesty and uncompromising regard for truth should be made part and parcel of any existing education system. We need such a blend of education which can turn out a new manhood, vigorous yet calm, mighty yet tolerant and sympathetic, idealistic yet practical to the backbone. Finally it will be a terrible mistake on our part if we do not shape our education system accordingly.

Oxygen... a movement view

01/03/2009

"I Want to Take Tests in Sports, Music and Social Activities As Well"

Education means an overall development of an individual. We want such a system where we all are comfortable with our studies and don't merely take it as a burden. We would love to take tests for subjects like math, English, etc. with the right kind of counseling. Further we'd love to explore the different fields of learning such as sports, music and social activities. A balanced growth is very important for an individual and for this, we need to accomplish in more fields such as music, art, language and test ourselves. For instance, discipline in life can be brought when we involve ourselves in games and play fair. Our self-confidence and morale boosts up when we are exposed to the masses or indulge in social activities. We have placed co-curricular activities at a lower level and only the books get primary importance. But these fields of learning which are so called extra curricular activities form the very core of education. Knowledge in these fields and their assessment is important for the nourishment of one's character. These activities are very important and inclusion of these and their official examination would surely help bring a radical change in the society. A revamp in the exam patterns is necessary so that we can realize our dream of taking tests in all these fields- music, sports and social activities, a reality!

Oxygen... a movement view

22/02/2009

Don't wait for the movement; Create the moment

The world is encountering a population explosion with a very high percentage of youth population; hence, a booming human resource.But the people of this world are turning so ambitious that they have stopped considering the means by which they achieve their ambitions. The words like 'Industrialisation', 'globalisation', commercialisation' have gained so much importance that spirituality and humanity seem to be losing their significance.But now, the youth will tell them the difference between right and wrong and bring them on TRACK.We are living in a place full of corruption and evils. And yes, we have the potentiality to change the world. We are the future. But what about our present? Yes, we are the future, but can we afford to wait till we grow up to exercise the right to franchise and then become the decision makers? We are the youth, brimming with energy, zeal and enthusiasm. Do we really need to wait till we become evil servants, artists, actors in order to so the world what we are? The answer is- No. We, the youth need not wait for the moment but we have to create the moment and let our energy wake the world in our own little ways. We have to reach out. Be it stopping somebody from littering our locality, spreading or achieving our own short them goals. We are not only the coming tomorrow, but we have to be the present as well. Fresh and pure, we are capable of banishing the evils from society. Once we start our multitasking, there's no stopping Us. We need to take off some of the responsibilities from those weak shoulders this moment itself. Taking the initiative from “ME” and converting it as a youth force to “WE”, we'll make THEM believe that we don't WAIT, we CREATE.

Oxygen... a movement view

15/02/2009

I want to love my exams

Its been two weeks that I have not gone out for playing nor have I watched any T.V. show sine two weeks. Know the reason behind it, EXAMS.Exams........the very word is sufficient in causing tension and fear in students. Exams are indeed necessary to judge the mental ability of the child and setting certain standards for promoting the child.Examinations are not only the tests of the receiver but also of the giver i.e. is the teacher. Exams, the very one that we face today are mere tests of memory and not understanding. The examinations mainly focus on extracting facts and data from the child. They are completely book-centred and merely involve any mental exercise. There are frequent incidences when there is complete nervous-breakdown of the child in the examination hall. And mind it, this is not the case with the toddlers but also many youngsters. Tears rolling down the cheeks, inability to answer despite of knowing the answer, suffering from fever and nausea are few of the symptoms that indicate as to how much fear does EXAMINATION cause to children. More than two semesters in an academic session, multiple sittings in a day and memory-based questions are a perfect combination to harass the child and make him psychologically uneasy. Regular assessments of the students, weekly tests will surely supplement in judging the academic and intellectual level of the child. Proper counseling and guidance, constant support of parents will enable the child to take the examinations as a normal happening and not as a terror. Innovation in the examination pattern and full-fleged support of family and friends will make each child say-’ I love my examinations’.

Oxygen... a movement View

8/2/2009

Rang de basanti

With the lovely fragrance all around, dancing flowers singing the song, here arrives the spring to rejuvenate us. Spring time is symbolic of a new beginning. After the hard times of winter, spring comes with a new ray of hope. It signifies that no matter how long and dark the night may be, the beginning of a new dawn is inevitable. The Indian culture is not only unique because of its long history but also because of the importance that it gives to nature. It has nurtured love and respect for nature through its various rituals. Basant panchmi is a nature festival. We worship goddess Sarswati on this day. She is the goddess of ‘art and wisdom’. It is customary to worship the deity on this day and ask her to give us the wisdom to lead a good life. We invoke her blesssings before taking up a new task. In terms of energy and ambience, it is the best time to introspect oneself and attain new heights through our planned actions.Lets ask the deity to ‘rang de basanti’ . Basanti is the colour of sanctity, revolution, patriotism and newness. To live with ‘basanti fervor’ means to be able to learn, unlearn and relearn. Discard of old habits will give way to new ones. This can be learnt from the around that shed their leaves and bear new leaves. Change is the rule of nature and we too are bound undergo some changes during our lifetime. Now, its up to us that how, when and in what manner we implement changes in our lives.But, in our celebration lets not forget that it the festival meant to appreciate the beautiful nature and thank it for its bountiful resources. We hope and pray that this festival rejuvenates our vigor and give us the thoughtfulness to live in harmony with nature. The earth is suffering from multiple problems at the moment and most of them have an anthropogenic origin. Lets join hands in protecting mother earth and keeping it green.

Oxygen... amovement view

1/2/2009

Serving the purpose of ‘Republic’

In the year 1950, this great nation became a sovereign republic. Republic or a system of people. The whole idea behind the adoption of a republican system was to ensure the participation of all people in governance and that in turn would be in accordance with the interest of the majority.In a joint family, its members have different needs and temperament. It is the responsibility of the head of the family to see that at least the basic requirements of all are fulfilled and they also get a chance to present their views and ideas regarding various issues. The head also needs to check that the work of one member does not cause hindrance in the path of success of others. The same is exactly the case with our republican system. Its head, namely the government has to see that no section is neglected. At present, the distribution of resources is so uneven that ninety-five percent of the total resources of our country in the hands of just five percent people and on the other hand the remaining ninety-five percent of the population struggles to get its share from mere five percent resources.It's the moral and official duty of the government to ensure proper allocation of funds in various fields and work on priority basis. It also needs to involve the populace in decision-making. We certainly don’t appreciate a republic without the very thought of involvement of the public. The arrow shot can not be brought back , but we indeed can ascertain that our next arrow hits the target well. So, lets hope that in the coming years this nation serves the purpose of being a republic.

Oxygen... a movement view

25/01/09

Only little is required...

The more the merrier is a proverb that sounds perfectly fine. A given piece of task can successfully be completed in a short duration if more people are there to do it. The work can be done more efficiently if the persons executing it are skillful. On the contrary, if the people act shrewdly then it can prove disastrous for others. Each one adds a drop to make the mighty ocean. If everyone works honestly then there would be no problem around us.The same is the case with the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of any country. All the citizens of a country work to increase the GDP which is the index of economic progress. The same GDP can see a crash just due to mean actions of a few individuals. Education aims at making the individual dextrous. Skillful people can make a great difference in the productivity. But the same knowledge and skill can be used to manipulate things that can prove fatal. Knowledge without benefit to others is just like a book that is kept on the shelf and has never been read. Knowledge without application will soon rust but this certainly does not mean that knowledge should be used for evil purpose.Education can either bring out the best in the child or completely spoil a child’s life. The educational institutes should the quality of education that they are imparting. Moral education should be given an equal importance as vocational training. Education is power but this power must not be misutilized. Its easy to rise but its even easier to fall. Only a little is required on our part. We need not do herculean tasks, small efforts will cumulate to give big results. In order to get immediate gains, we should not adopt wrong ways. Good things are not achieved easily and what is easily-got is not good.

Oxygen... a movement view

18/01/09

Curing the Diseased Systems

In a society there are a number of things that act as controls for the smooth functioning of the social set-up. There are also institutions that frame the rules and regulations, maintain law and order. and provide remedy to various problems. Prime institutions of such type are schools, college, parliament and the police department. In addition to framing of laws there are other bodies that are houses from which remedy or treatment to our problems and query is expected. If you are sick then you seek the advise of a doctor but what if the doctor himself is sick . This is absolutely the case with our various systems. These systems came into existence to provide relief and remedy to the persisting problems but in due course themselves diseased. The present condition is indeed deplorable. Temples of justice- the courts have become an open market where judgement is sold, schools that ought to be learning centre has turned into business houses. most of our systems have deceased virtually and are there just for the name -sake. If the well itself is empty then how will it quench the thirst of those who suffering from scorching heat. What can be done in such a situation? A major role can be played by the young generations that can bring about drastic change by being the change themselves. Youth should be responsive and should question various authorities on different issues. Where there is a problem, there is a remedy too, the only thing is that we need to keep awakened. Our systems are literally dying and their existence is just for name-sake. Physical existence with a defunct machinery makes no sense, so we need to gear up and take the charge of repairing and curing the essential and paramount systems of our democratic nation for the healthy survival of all.

Oxygen... a movement view

11/01/09

Our promise & your co-operation

India is democratic nation of a billion plus people. In a democracy, the citizens exercise their right to choose their representatives through elections. Elections provides an opportunity to make a government of our choice. Political leaders are the pillars of our government system and the public lay their valuable trust in them by electing them as their representatives.Any person needs only a few basic things to lead a dignified life. If the people co-operate with government and the government also works in the interest of the people then this nation is sure to progress. People who are not in the government can certainly intervene in it by questioning them it on various issues. A machine gives it best output when all its parts work in perfect synchronization. Similarly, our system will work smoothly only when all its constituent work in agreement with each other.A luxurious life is not what one needs, there are very basic requirements that are needed. The promise of the public to work honestly and the cooperation of the government to avail the following three amenities can make a happy nation.(1) People can promise to consume a balanced diet but in turn the state needs to see that at least the common food items are available at a reasonable rate. This can be achieved through an effective public distribution system. Millions of mouth can be fed satisfactorily the public distribution system is sound. (2) Children can assure that they go to school and work for in the direction to achieve academic and moral excellence and excellence. This can be ensured only when the state avails them schools in abundant number where children can get quality education. Schools are centres of learning. The provision for schools should be such that all the children can accommodated. Schools are the right place where children get exposed to new ideas and are given a platform to expand their creativity. Its said that a strong building requires a strong foundation, so does it go for children. Children too need a strong foundation on which they can carve their own destiny. (3) People can make an earnest effort to remain healthy but the government should provide a good health-care system for this. This will ensure a good national health. There should be at least one health centre in each area so that people need not go to distant places for the treatment of common and simple ailments. People should not suffer due to dearth of medicines or treatment. good health is the pre-requisite for all other development in an individual’s life.If the state assures the above three things then the citizens of this vast nation will not worry for their next meal and their health problems. A free mind is necessary for experimenting new things, on the contrary a mind burdened with numerous problems has limited power of imagination. Thus, the co-operation of the government and the people is essential for our nation’s progress.

Oxygen... a movement view

4/1/2009

A new beginning

The clock will strike, twelve and the dawn of a new year will come unfolding new things for each one of us. New year is not mere the beginning of a new calender year but the commencement of various activities round the globe.If we co-relate this with the then persisting weather conditions, we find that it is in absolute harmony with the new beginning. The flowers start blooming , the trees bear lovely shades and the sweet fragrance fills us with freshness. And this happens after a tough winter-time. All these act as a booster that catalyzes our activities. We generally start a year with resolutions but the point is not in making resolutions but to improve ourselves with each passing day. It's important to note that how can we discard bad habits and gradually replace them with good ones as they will cumulatively result in good character.Future is uncertain and unknown but our actions our under our control and its we who will direct our wills and actions to the right tract. Today, not only our nation but the entire world is facing the numerous problems which need to be solved as an urgency. The solutions are present as there is no problem without a solution, the need is to look for it. The past year may have left sweet-and-sour memories for us but lets not regret for anything rather determine to achieve what we want to achieve in life. Life is a pot-pouri of sorrow and happiness but its wise to extract maximum from whatsoever is available to us and live each moment to the fullest. Living with satisfaction is an and lets learn this art to live life to the fullest. And if however things have not turned out well then there is nothing to be disheartened. Its better to rectify our deeds rather than repenting. Things will seem better if possess an optimistic attitude towards life. One should never depart with hope as this is the factor that persuades us to move on.

Oxygen... a movement view

28/12/2008