Jaipur, Aug.13,2025: The event’s theme—Universal Apostolic Preferences—guided student performances, inviting them to embody Jesuit values like solidarity, social justice, and spiritual reflection

Theatre & Art Unite: Setting the Stage

Theatre & Art Unite framed the heart of a day where students from St. Xavier’s School—Nevta, Jaipur—took center stage, blending dramatic expression with musical harmony. On August 12, 2025, the campus reverberated with creativity as students from Classes 6 through 12 performed with passion and purpose.

Purpose & Powerful Theme: Universal Apostolic Preferences

The event’s theme—Universal Apostolic Preferences—guided student performances, inviting them to embody Jesuit values like solidarity, social justice, and spiritual reflection. Through both drama and song, participants explored and expressed what these values mean in today’s world, illustrating how Theatre & Art Unite not only hearts but values.

Drama & Music: Houses in Action

English Play: A Theatrical Masterclass

In the English Play segment, Classes 9–12 brought stories to life under the discerning eyes of judges: Fr. Edward Oliviera (renowned principal and educationist), Mr. Biju M.P., and Ms. Teeja Jose. Their verdicts praised the students’ compelling stage presence, imaginative direction, and thematic resonance. Fr. Edward’s live feedback, rich with theatrical guidance, elevated confidence and performance quality.

Singing Competition: Soulful Melodies

Meanwhile, Classes 6–8 lit up the stage in the Singing Competition, judged by Fr. Edward Oliviera, Mr. Ashish Joseph (Indian Idol fame), and the school’s music mentor, Mr. Colin Jobard. The voices rang clear, embodying the event’s spiritual and social message. Judges applauded the emotional depth and musical articulation, proving again why Theatre & Art Unite as powerful educational tools.

Winners & Highlights

• Drama Competition:
  • Blue House: 1st place
  • Red House: 2nd place
  • Green House: 3rd place
• Singing Competition:
  • Blue House: 1st place
  • Yellow House: 2nd place
  • Green House: 3rd place

Principal Rev. Fr. Sangeeth Raj, SJ, announced the winners with warmth, acknowledging every participant, and reemphasizing how Theatre & Art Unite to nurture holistic education.

Inspirational Takeaways & Jesuit Values

• Creative Confidence: Students showcased remarkable self-assurance—theatre and art unite minds and courage.
• Value-Driven Expression: The Universal Apostolic Preferences theme turned performances into acts of conscience and commitment.
• Educational Enrichment: Through art, students gained insight into empathy, teamwork, and expressive nuance.
• Mentorship Matters: Insights from Fr. Edward and Mr. Joseph sparked artistic growth and confidence.

Why Theatre & Art Matter in Education

Theatre & Art Unite not merely students, but ideals and experiences—making education emotionally resonant. This event underscores how incorporating performing arts into schooling fosters creativity, ethical awareness, and emotional literacy.

As St. Xavier’s School looks to future competitions and cultural expressions, the success of this Inter-House English Play and Singing Competition proves that Theatre & Art Unite in elevating education beyond textbooks.

New Delhi, Aug.11,2025: The seminar’s keynote, delivered by Professor Ashutosh Kumar (Head, DCEE, DU), set the tone with Reimagining National Parks—a call to evolve from mere visitors to

From Sanctuary to Sensibility

The seminar’s keynote, delivered by Professor Ashutosh Kumar (Head, DCEE, DU), set the tone with Reimagining National Parks—a call to evolve from mere visitors to “ecological storytellers.” He urged students to amplify their voices for sustainable policy, recognizing the deep ties between urban life and wilderness vitality.

History Meets Reality

Mr. Rajiv Bhartari (I.F.S. retired, Consultant in Protected Area Management) offered a sweeping overview—from the park’s founding as Hailey National Park in 1936 to the pivotal Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. He also highlighted a modern dilemma: overtourism, which strains ecosystems while offering economic gain.

Ecological Imbalance

Freelance naturalist Imran Khan, owner of Rangers Lodge homestay, revealed how past choices—like planting teak and eucalyptus—have weakened biodiversity. He championed the restoration of native Sal forests to rebuild ecological resilience.

Tourism’s Carbon Toll

Mr. Ram Pratap, Director of the Indian School of Naturalist, framed overtourism as part of a global problem: tourism contributes ~8% of global carbon emissions. He urged sustainable park operations, local community involvement, and tougher regulatory frameworks to preserve India’s conservation reputation.

Individual Action Matters

Swami Prem Parivartan, popularly known as Peepal Baba and Founder of @givemetreestrust, invoked the power of one—individuals plant and preserve. He fused ecology with spirituality, reinforcing how personal responsibility deepens environmental connection.

A Transformative Encounter

Faisal Rizvi, Director at Etroupers Consultants, shared how an unplanned tiger encounter transformed his view of the jungle—not merely a spectacle but a complex, interconnected world demanding respect and defense.

Institutional Impact and Community Drive

The event galvanized students and faculty, strengthening the university’s mission to cultivate ecological consciousness through collaboration. Voices from varied domains—history, science, personal story—united to show that real conservation hinges on collective wisdom and passion.

Vote of Thanks & Collective Vision

Organizers delivered heartfelt thanks to all speakers for their invaluable insights, to the University of Delhi students whose engagement brought energy, and to sponsors Manu Maharani Resort, Aahana Resort, and Digital9 whose support made the event possible. Their partnership underscores that safeguarding our natural heritage is a shared endeavor—one that this seminar inspires us to continue.

Uttarakhand, Aug.05,2025: At approximately 1:45 PM IST the cloudburst over the upper Khīr Ganga basin caused a sudden flash flood

Uttarkashi Cloudburst Flash Flood Strikes Dharali

Uttarkashi cloudburst flash flood unfolded on the morning of Tuesday, August 5, 2025, when an intense cloudburst over the Khīr Ganga catchment triggered a catastrophic surge in water and debris, drowning Dharali village near Harsil in minutes.

Eyewitness Horror & Timeline of Events

• At approximately 1:45 PM IST the cloudburst over the upper Khīr Ganga basin caused a sudden flash flood.
• In just 30–34 seconds, torrents of water mixed with rocks and mud swept through Dharali, washing away hotels, homes, shops, and market stalls lining the riverbank.
• Villagers captured shocking footage of people screaming and fleeing as infrastructures collapsed into the rushing gully.

Casualties and Missing Persons

• Local officials confirmed 4 people died in the flash flood so far.
• Approximately 50 individuals remain missing, many feared trapped under debris or washed downstream in gutted buildings and lodges.

Scale of Destruction in Dharali

• The floodcourse devastated entire rows of hotels, homestays, and market shops. 20–25 accommodation units are reportedly destroyed.
• The entire marketplace of Dharali has been nearly wiped out. Several homes and commercial structures carved into the hillside were swept away.

Rescue and Relief Operations Underway

• The district administration, SDRF, NDRF, ITBP, and the Indian Army swiftly mobilized. Within 10 minutes, a team of roughly 150 soldiers reached the site and began rescue efforts, evacuating 15–20 people to safety while searching for survivors.
• Specialized gear and search‑and‑rescue teams continue ground operations under adverse terrain and ongoing heavy rainfall conditions.

Government & Political Response

• Uttarkashi DM Prashant Arya confirmed fatalities and reported widespread property loss, with communications and electricity disrupted.
• Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“The news of heavy damage caused by a cloudburst in Dharali (Uttarkashi) region is extremely sad… SDRF, NDRF, district administration, and other related teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations on a war footing.”.

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with the CM and assured the deployment of central assistance; he directed ITBP and NDRF teams to move immediately to the scene.

Natural Causes & Climate Risk in Uttarakhand

• A cloudburst is an intense, short-lived rainfall event that can deposit over 100 mm of rain within an hour, especially common in orographic mountainous zones like Uttarakhand.
• Experts caution that the region’s increasing vulnerability to such flash floods is linked to climate change, unplanned development along riverbanks, and shrinking forest cover.

Lessons & Precautions for Future

• Frequent early‑warning systems and real‑time rainfall monitoring could help prevent tragedies in high-risk zones.
• Restricting development immediately adjacent to fast‑flowing mountain streams and mandating flood‑resilient building codes may reduce future loss.
• Enhancing community-based disaster preparedness and conducting evacuation drills for remote villages like Dharali are essential.

The Uttarkashi cloudburst flash flood has wrought tragic loss: four lives lost, dozens missing, and entire sections of Dharali erased within seconds. Rescue operations are ongoing amid challenging terrain and shifting weather. This calamity is a vivid reminder of Uttarakhand’s fragile alpine ecosystems and the urgent need for enhanced disaster resilience.

Jaipur, Aug.01,2025: Under the banner of Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation, the initiative merges environmental responsibility with a heartfelt tribute to mothers—

Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation Drive Begins Strong in Jaipur

Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation campaign grew roots nationally after its launch on World Environment Day, targeting 10 crore tree plantings across India by September 2025.
In Jaipur, the ECO Club of DAV Centenary Public School led a vibrant drive on 31 July 2025, aligned with this national mission and guided by Principal Shri A.K. Sharma.

Why Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation Matters Nationally

Under the banner of Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation, the initiative merges environmental responsibility with a heartfelt tribute to mothers—and aligns with national goals:

• 10 crore trees to be planted by schools and communities by September 2025.
• Schools integrate the campaign via the Eco Clubs for Mission LiFE portal and microsite, allowing students to upload selfies with their saplings and receive e-certificates.
• The aim: nurture emotional, social & environmental values among students while boosting green cover across India.

Powerful Moments at DAV Centenary Public School, Jaipur

On 31 July, DAV Centenary Public School, Vaishali Nagar, Jaipur, organized an enthusiastic tree plantation drive in sync with the national campaign.

• Students brought over 150 saplings—flowering, fruit-bearing, shade and medicinal varieties.
• Grand trees like Khejari, Karanj, Neem, Siris, Ashoka, Mango, Jamun, Amla were planted around the sports field; medicinal & ornamental species lined corridors and Shraddhanand Park.
• Principal Shri A.K. Sharma inaugurated the initiative by planting an Ashoka sapling, setting a motivational tone for the event.

Symbolism & Participation: Honouring Mothers Through Trees

In this Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation drive, every student tagged their sapling with a message:
“Yeh ped meri maa ke naam” and a personal note promoting environmental care.
This symbolic gesture connects maternal tribute with ecological stewardship—honouring mothers while nurturing Mother Earth.

Local Impact: Eco Club & Student Engagement

The DAV ECO Club orchestrated the event as part of the school’s Environment Week, featuring themed morning assemblies and documentary screenings for Classes VI to X.
Students pledged to care for their planted saplings—cementing responsibility and follow-through in protecting their green legacies.

Broader Eco‑Movement in Rajasthan & India

Rajasthan state’s Mission Hariyalo Rajasthan aims to plant 50 crore trees over five years, dovetailing with the national initiative. This year alone, 10 crore saplings will be planted, including 2.5 crore on Hariyali Teej.
Together, these drives signal a powerful green movement across communities, schools, and government agencies.

After the Saplings: Care, Monitoring & Sustainability

To ensure long-term impact, the campaign integrates:

• Use of the Microsite & Eco Clubs portal, where students upload photos and receive e-certificates, while data helps track progress at grassroots level.
• Eco Clubs across over 14.7 lakh schools upload and share their activities through dashboards in multiple languages; this strengthens accountability and participation continuity.

Why This Drives Hope & Change

The Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Tree Plantation drive at DAV Jaipur exemplifies how localized, symbolic acts—planting a tree for one’s mother—can integrate with national environmental missions.
Through unity of sentiment (honouring mothers) and action (community plantation), the campaign fosters a generation of green ambassadors committed to sustainable living and climate resilience.

China, July29,2025:Rain began on July 23, intensifying through to July 28. The mountainous northern districts of Beijing, especially Miyun

Beijing flooding deaths, The immediate toll

In a single week of torrential storms, Beijing flooding deaths reached at least 30 confirmed fatalities, including 28 in Miyun district and 2 in Yanqing.

Neighboring Hebei province saw additional fatalities due to landslides—raising the regional toll to 38.

When and where the rains struck hardest

Rain began on July 23, intensifying through to July 28. The mountainous northern districts of Beijing, especially Miyun, were worst hit, recording 543 mm of rain—nearly the city’s annual total—in just days.

In Huairou, 95.3 mm fell in one hour.

Rescue efforts & political direction

President Xi Jinping issued urgent orders for “all‑out” search and rescue efforts, focusing on both Beijing and surrounding provinces like Hebei, Jilin, and Shandong – where heavy casualties and damage were reported. Premier Li Qiang called for escalated emergency response for Miyun in particular.

Infrastructure damage & widespread outages

More than 130 villages lost power, roads were washed away, communications lines failed, and over 30 road segments were damaged. In Taishitun town, uprooted trees, flooded roads, and submerged vehicles created scenes of mayhem.

Evacuations and regional impact

Authorities evacuated over 80,000 residents across Beijing, with about 17,000 in Miyun alone. Public transport was suspended, tourist sites closed, and local governments advised residents to stay indoors until the alerts are lifted.

Landslides in Hebei added at least 4 additional deaths and left 8 people missing.

Historical floods compared

The July 2025 floods rival the 2012 Beijing flood, which killed 79 people, destroyed homes, and inflicted ~$1.6 billion in damage. That event saw 460 mm of rain in Fangshan within 20 hours, setting records. The current event, while shorter, reached nearly annual rainfall in just a few days.

What caused such extreme rainfall?

Meteorologists cite topography trapping warm, humid air over northern Beijing, amplified by a northbound typhoon’s influence. This dynamic produced intense precipitation—up to 80–90% of annual totals in only days. The effect turned Beijing into a literal rain “trap”. Scientists warn such extreme weather is part of a broader climate trend.

China, July22,2025:The China Hydropower Dam project, as envisioned, will surpass even the famed Three Gorges Dam.

China’s Dam Ambitions

China Hydropower Dam plans are again raising eyebrows globally. With the groundbreaking ceremony recently led by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, China has begun construction on the world’s largest hydropower dam in Tibet’s Nyingchi region — near the sensitive India-China border.

Named the Motuo Hydropower Station, this $167 billion infrastructure project could reshape South Asia’s water dynamics and cause downstream disruptions affecting millions in India and Bangladesh.

World’s Largest Hydropower Project

The China Hydropower Dam project, as envisioned, will surpass even the famed Three Gorges Dam — currently the world’s biggest in terms of energy output. Once operational, it’s expected to generate three times more electricity than the Three Gorges.

Located on the Yarlung Tsangpo river (known as the Brahmaputra in India), the project includes five cascade-style hydropower stations, tapping the river’s steep gradient for maximum output.

This ambitious dam was first hinted at in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan, and President Xi Jinping’s 2021 visit to Tibet solidified the political will behind it.

Quick Facts:

• Cost: 1.2 trillion yuan (~$167 billion)
• Power Output: Estimated to be triple of the Three Gorges Dam
• Location: Nyingchi Prefecture, near Arunachal Pradesh border
• Completion Target: Unknown, but early construction has begun

Environmental Concerns Around the Dam

While the China Hydropower Dam promises clean energy and reduced carbon reliance, environmentalists are sounding alarms.

Environmental Risks:

• Displacement of Tibetan communities in biodiversity-rich zones
• Flooding of deep valleys, some of the world’s most ecologically diverse
• Increased seismic risk — the region lies in a high-risk earthquake zone

Even though Chinese authorities claim the project prioritizes “ecological harmony,” satellite images and media reports point to disregard for local consultation, with protesters detained in previous hydropower disputes.

Strategic Risks to India and Bangladesh

The China Hydropower Dam is not just an environmental issue — it’s a geopolitical flashpoint.

The Yarlung Tsangpo flows from Tibet into Arunachal Pradesh (India) as the Siang, then becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam, and finally enters Bangladesh as the Jamuna.

India’s Concerns:

• China could control water flows, affecting agriculture and drinking water
• Potential use of the dam as a “water bomb” — sudden water releases could devastate lower areas
• Security threats in Arunachal Pradesh, a region China claims as “South Tibet”

In a recent interview, Arunachal CM Pema Khandu said:

“If China suddenly releases water, the Siang region could be annihilated. It’s an existential threat.”

India’s Ministry of External Affairs in January 2025 expressed formal concerns and demanded transparency and consultation, but Beijing maintains that it has the right to exploit Tibetan rivers.

Local and International Reactions

India:

• Arunachal Pradesh politicians warned of strategic manipulation of river flow
• Congress Party criticized the Modi government’s silence
• Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma downplayed fears, claiming 70% of Brahmaputra’s flow originates within India

Bangladesh:

• Sent a formal letter to China requesting project details
• Worried about freshwater availability and flooding during monsoons

Experts Speak:

A Lowy Institute report warned in 2020 that:

“Control over Tibetan rivers gives China significant leverage over India’s economy.”

Hydro-politics is now emerging as a new battleground in already tense India-China relations.

What Lies Ahead? India’s Counter Strategy

India isn’t sitting idle. The Indian government has initiated its own hydropower project on the Siang River to regulate downstream flow and safeguard against China’s water policies.

India’s Dam Strategy:

• Proposed multi-billion rupee dam in Arunachal Pradesh
• Objective: Flood prevention, energy generation, and water security
• Part of a broader effort to establish riparian resilience

Environmental groups in India, however, caution against reactive dam-building, urging for diplomatic water-sharing agreements instead.

A Turning Point in River Diplomacy

The China Hydropower Dam project is a landmark engineering feat — but also a litmus test for regional cooperation in transboundary river governance.

With India and Bangladesh raising concerns, the world watches closely as water becomes an increasingly strategic resource. What was once a tool for development may soon evolve into a geopolitical weapon if transparent, equitable frameworks aren’t put in place.

For now, the Motuo Hydropower Station symbolizes both China’s clean energy ambition and a potential fault line in South Asia’s fragile river diploma

USA, July19,2025: The 1944 water treaty between the US and Mexico outlines how the Rio Grande and Colorado River waters are shared:

Table of Contents

1. The Mexico Water Dispute in 2025
2. Drought Hits Northern Mexico: Faith and Fear in the Air
3. The 1944 US-Mexico Water Treaty Explained
4. How Much Water Is Mexico Obliged to Send?
5. Texas Farmers Cry Foul Over Shortage
6. Clashes, Deaths, and Diplomatic Friction
7. The Irrigation Debate: Efficiency vs. Tradition
8. Mexico’s New Approach: Sprinklers and Strategy
9. Is the 1944 Treaty Still Relevant in 2025?
10. Environmental Impact: A Dying Lake and Lost Livelihoods
11. Conclusion: Prayers, Politics, and the Price of Water

The Mexico Water Dispute in 2025

The Mexico water dispute with the United States has reached boiling point, quite literally. Amid one of the worst droughts in decades, northern Mexico is experiencing a severe water crisis that has exposed fault lines in an 81-year-old treaty.

With water levels plunging at La Boquilla Dam and tensions rising across the border, both nations are standing on the edge of an environmental and diplomatic standoff.

Drought Hits Northern Mexico: Faith and Fear in the Air

In the sun-scorched town of San Francisco de Conchos, Chihuahua, prayers have become a daily ritual. Locals are gathering at the dry banks of the La Boquilla Dam, once submerged under Lake Toronto, now cracked and bleached.

The local priest leads a somber crowd of farmers in prayer, including Rafael Betans, a volunteer who has monitored the lake for 35 years. Standing on the dry, white rocks that were once underwater, he says, “This entire area should be under water.”

The 1944 US-Mexico Water Treaty Explained

The 1944 water treaty between the US and Mexico outlines how the Rio Grande and Colorado River waters are shared:

• Mexico must deliver 430 million cubic meters of water annually to the U.S. from the Rio Grande.
• In return, the U.S. sends 1.85 billion cubic meters of water from the Colorado River to Mexico.
• Shared reservoirs and dams, like Amistad and La Boquilla, are monitored and regulated by the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC).

This treaty was created in an era before climate change, rapid population growth, and intensive farming methods. Yet it remains the backbone of US-Mexico water relations.

How Much Water Is Mexico Obliged to Send?

Currently, Mexico is behind on its payments. The country owes around 1.5 billion cubic meters of water—an amount that’s caused political uproar, especially in Texas.

To start making up for the shortfall, Mexico recently released 75 million cubic meters through the Amistad dam—but that’s just 5% of what’s owed.

Texas Farmers Cry Foul Over Shortage

On the other side of the border, in Texas’s Rio Grande Valley, farmers like Bryan Jones are watching their crops wilt. A fourth-generation grower, Jones says he has only been able to irrigate half his farmland in the past three years.

“We’re not asking for anything more than what the treaty promises,” he says. “But Mexico hasn’t delivered. They’re storing the water, using it for their own crops, and leaving us dry.”

Clashes, Deaths, and Diplomatic Friction

Tensions over water have even turned deadly. In September 2020, Mexican farmers clashed with national guards at the La Boquilla dam, trying to prevent water diversion. Two people were killed.

Now, the rhetoric is heating up again. Former President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social accusing Mexico of “stealing water” and threatening tariffs or sanctions unless they repay their water debt.

Meanwhile, newly elected Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has acknowledged the crisis but insists Mexico is doing its best under difficult circumstances.

The Irrigation Debate: Efficiency vs. Tradition

Adding fuel to the Mexico water dispute is a major debate about irrigation efficiency.

Chihuahua’s two main crops—walnuts and alfalfa—are both water-thirsty. Walnut trees alone need 250 liters per day per tree.

Traditional irrigation systems flood fields using open channels, wasting thousands of liters daily.

Mexico’s New Approach: Sprinklers and Strategy

Some Mexican farmers, like former mayor Jaime Ramírez, are adapting. He has installed modern sprinkler systems that reduce water use by up to 60%, maintaining productivity while conserving resources.

“Yes, it costs more upfront,” Ramírez admits, “but over time, it’s cheaper. It saves water, energy, and ensures we can keep farming even in dry years.”

Still, not everyone can afford this technology. And as Ramírez warns, “If we don’t get rain this year, next year we might only have enough water for people to drink—not for farming.”

Is the 1944 Treaty Still Relevant in 2025?

In Mexico, many argue that the 1944 water treaty no longer reflects present-day realities. The agreement was made when both nations had smaller populations, fewer farms, and no climate crisis.

Ramírez says, “It worked then. But today, with droughts and climate change, it needs updating.”

But Texans like Jones disagree. “The treaty worked when my grandfather was farming. Mexico has broken the trust. That’s the problem.”

Environmental Impact: A Dying Lake and Lost Livelihoods

Beyond farming, the dropping water levels are damaging Lake Toronto’s fragile ecosystem. Rafael Betans says water is evaporating faster than ever, endangering fish and aquatic life.

The once-thriving tourism around the lake—fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting—is now virtually dead.

“We’ve never seen it this bad,” says Betans. “Now we just pray for rain.”

Prayers, Politics, and the Price of Water

The Mexico water dispute with the United States is a ticking time bomb, driven by drought, outdated treaties, and competing survival needs.

While politicians argue and farmers struggle, nature continues its slow collapse. Climate change is making old rules obsolete, and unless both countries renegotiate with sustainability and science at the forefront, the conflict will only deepen.

Water, once a symbol of life, has become a weapon of politics.

Jaipur, July16,2025

An impactful and enlightening Talk on Environmental Awareness was organized on 15th July 2025 at the auditorium of DAV Centenary Public School, Jaipur, for the students of Classes VII and VIII.

The guest speaker, Ms. Ami Sharma, an esteemed alumna of DAV CPS and a joint Ph.D. researcher at IIT Delhi and the University of Queensland, shared her deep insights on air and plastic pollution in urban environments. Ms. Sharma is also the Founding President of SIPAA and an active volunteer with Paryavaran Sanrakshan Gatividhi, working globally for environmental preservation.

During her highly engaging and interactive session, Ms. Sharma urged students to adopt simple yet effective practices in their daily lives—such as avoiding single-use plastics (like polybags and tissues), saving water, and following a strict ‘no wastage’ policy. She shed light on the alarming consequences of plastic pollution and emphasized the urgent need to shift toward sustainable living.

Adding to the message, Principal Mr. A.K. Sharma addressed the gathering and inspired students to become eco-warriors in their homes and communities. He encouraged them to replace plastic bags with cloth alternatives, and to conserve water and electricity as part of their routine.

The session left a strong impression on the young minds. Students found the talk relatable and thought-provoking, and many expressed eagerness to actively participate in environmental conservation activities. Inspired by Ms. Sharma’s passion and dedication, they pledged to make eco-friendly choices and spread awareness among their peers and families.

As air quality in Delhi-NCR reaches alarming levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP 4) effective from November 18, 2024. This comprehensive set of measures aims to combat the severe pollution crisis that has gripped the region, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to unprecedented heights. In this article, we will explore what is banned and what remains allowed under these new regulations.

The Context: Why GRAP 4 Was Implemented

The decision to enforce GRAP 4 comes as Delhi’s AQI escalated to a staggering 483, categorizing it within the ‘severe plus’ range. This situation has prompted urgent action to mitigate health risks associated with poor air quality, which can lead to serious respiratory issues and other health problems for residents. The CAQM‘s proactive measures are aimed at curbing emissions and improving overall air quality in the national capital.

Key Restrictions Under GRAP 4

The GRAP 4 regulations consist of several critical restrictions designed to address the pollution crisis effectively. Here’s a breakdown of what is now banned:

1. Ban on Construction Activities

All construction and demolition activities are suspended across Delhi-NCR. This includes:

• Public infrastructure projects: Such as highways, roads, flyovers, power transmission lines, pipelines, and telecommunication work.
• Private construction: All residential and commercial construction projects are also halted.

This ban aims to reduce dust and emissions generated by construction activities, which significantly contribute to air pollution.

2. Vehicle Restrictions

The new rules impose strict limitations on vehicle entry into Delhi:

• Diesel-powered vehicles: Medium and heavy goods vehicles registered as BS-IV or lower are banned unless they are transporting essential goods.
• Non-essential light commercial vehicles: These are prohibited from entering Delhi unless they operate on cleaner fuels such as CNG or are electric vehicles.
• Truck entry: Only trucks carrying essential items or using clean fuel (LNG/CNG/BS-VI diesel/electric) can enter the city.

3. School Operations

In light of the deteriorating air quality, physical classes for students in grades 6 through 9 and Class 11 have been shifted online. Only students in Classes 10 and 12 may continue attending physical classes. This measure is intended to protect younger students from exposure to harmful air pollutants.

4. Work-from-Home Recommendations

The CAQM has advised offices in the National Capital Region (NCR) to operate at reduced capacity—50% of employees working from home—to minimize commuting-related emissions. Central government employees may also be encouraged to adopt work-from-home arrangements during this critical period.

Also read : Delhi Chokes Under Toxic Smog for Second Day: AQI Soars Past 400, Residents Face Severe Health Risks

What Is Allowed Under GRAP 4?

Despite the stringent restrictions, certain activities remain permissible under GRAP 4:

1. Essential Services

• Vehicles transporting essential goods or providing emergency services are exempt from the vehicle restrictions.
• Construction activities related to critical infrastructure projects like metro rail systems and hospitals may continue.

2. Public Transport

Public transport services remain operational, encouraging residents to utilize buses and metro services instead of personal vehicles.

3. Health Precautions

Residents are advised to take necessary health precautions when outdoors, including wearing masks and limiting outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours.

Navigating Life Under GRAP 4

As Delhi grapples with severe air pollution levels, the implementation of GRAP Stage 4 represents a crucial step towards safeguarding public health and improving air quality. While many activities face restrictions, it is essential for residents to adapt by utilizing available resources such as public transport and online education options.

Read more News Delhi/NCR

Winter weddings in India are a magical affair, filled with vibrant colors, intricate decorations, and heartfelt celebrations. However, choosing the perfect outfit can be challenging, especially when considering the chilly weather. This guide provides stunning winter wedding outfit ideas for women that blend tradition with modernity, ensuring you look fabulous while staying warm.

Why Winter Weddings Are Unique

Winter weddings often feature rich fabrics and darker color palettes that reflect the season’s elegance. The festive spirit is complemented by the cozy atmosphere, making it essential to choose outfits that are not only beautiful but also practical for the colder temperatures.

Key Considerations for Winter Wedding Outfits

• Fabric Choices: Opt for heavier materials like velvet, silk, or brocade that provide warmth.
• Layering: Incorporate layers such as jackets or shawls to enhance comfort without compromising style.
• Color Palette: Darker shades like burgundy, navy blue, and emerald green are perfect for winter celebrations.

Top Outfit Ideas for Winter Weddings

1. Velvet Lehengas

Velvet lehengas are a luxurious choice for winter weddings. The plush fabric not only keeps you warm but also adds a regal touch to your look. Pair it with a full-sleeve blouse or an embroidered jacket to complete the ensemble.

2. Anarkali Suits

Anarkali suits are timeless and versatile. Choose styles made from silk or heavy georgette that feature long sleeves. Adding a matching shawl can elevate your outfit while providing extra warmth.

3. Sarees with Capes

Sarees are a classic option for Indian weddings. For winter, consider draping your saree with a stylish cape or opting for a full-sleeve blouse. Fabrics like silk or heavier georgette work beautifully in colder weather.

4. Shararas

saree.com

Shararas are both comfortable and chic, making them ideal for winter festivities. Look for options with long sleeves and layer them with a stylish jacket or shawl to keep cozy while dancing the night away.

5. Indo-Western Gowns

For cocktail receptions, an Indo-Western floor-length gown can make a statement. Opt for gowns with long sleeves or layer them with a fashionable cape to add warmth without sacrificing style.

6. Layered Outfits

Layering is key in winter fashion. Combine your outfit with an embroidered jacket or pashmina shawl to create a chic look while ensuring you stay warm throughout the event.

7. Long Kurtas with Trousers

A long kurta paired with trousers can be both comfortable and fashionable. Choose rich colors and intricate embroidery to keep the festive spirit alive.

Accessorizing Your Winter Wedding Outfit

• Footwear: Consider stylish yet comfortable footwear like embellished juttis or block heels that are suitable for dancing.
• Jewelry: Statement earrings or layered necklaces can enhance your outfit without overwhelming it.
• Outerwear: A light shawl or tailored blazer can be useful for cooler evenings while adding sophistication to your look.

Color and Fabric Recommendations

• Colors: Embrace darker shades like maroon, navy blue, emerald green, and royal purple to add richness to your appearance.
• Fabrics: Velvet, silk, and heavy brocade are excellent choices that provide warmth and elegance during winter weddings.

Winter weddings offer a unique opportunity to showcase your style while embracing the season’s charm. By selecting outfits that combine comfort and elegance, you can enjoy the festivities without worrying about the cold. Whether you opt for a velvet lehenga, anarkali suit, or an Indo-Western gown, remember to accessorize thoughtfully and choose fabrics that keep you warm.With these outfit ideas in mind, you’re ready to dazzle at any winter wedding celebration!