Life As It Is

 I'm nobody. I watch web series all night long. Finding no one close to me, I make myself a friend. I deny my heart's feelings, or perhaps there's no one to whom I can express them. I don't know if heartfelt feelings even exist. I thought these were all filmy philosophies. There's no one in life who can make me cry or laugh. Who understands me without me saying anything. Who cares for me. But anyway, all these things are just bookish things. No one cares if I cry. No one cares if I'm happy. No one cares if I come. No one will care if I leave. But it's okay. Life is beautiful just the way it is. In its entanglements, in its complexities. What difference does it make? Is it necessary to live by someone's constructed concepts? Shouldn't life be seen as it is, in its joys, in its sorrows, in its hopes, and in its disappointments? Life is interesting right now. All you need is perspective. To see life. As it is. 

But I am not alone. Many people are going this way. 

World Cities Day : 31 October

World Cities Day is an annual United Nations observance celebrated on 31 October to highlight the importance of sustainable urban development and global urbanization challenges. The day, first marked in 2014, aims to promote cooperation among countries and stakeholders in making cities “inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable,” aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 11.

Purpose and Origins

World Cities Day was established by UN General Assembly resolution 68/239 in December 2013 and is managed by UN-Habitat in collaboration with partner agencies such as UNESCO, UN-Water, and UNDP. Its roots trace back to Expo 2010 Shanghai, and it represents the conclusion of “Urban October,” a month dedicated to urban issues and sustainable development. The general ongoing theme is “Better City, Better Life,” with a new sub-theme selected each year to address particular urban challenges.

2025 Theme and Activities

For 2025, World Cities Day’s theme is “people-centred smart cities,” focusing on how digital innovation, AI, and data-driven decisions can improve lives and address shocks and crises in urban environments. The emphasis is on participatory governance, integrated urban systems, and evidence-driven planning to make cities more sustainable and inclusive.

- The 2025 global observance is being held in Bogota, Colombia, including high-level ceremonies, expert panels, and roundtables on digital innovation, adequate housing, and urban infrastructure.

- The WHO and other global partners are launching resources and convening forums to highlight the critical role of urban health and people-centred approaches in smart city transitions.

Significance

World Cities Day energizes awareness, advocacy, and action toward more effective and inclusive urban planning, with events organized by UN agencies, local governments, NGOs, and urban planners across the globe.

- It supports partnerships for urban sustainability, resilience, and health, and encourages the sharing of best practices and innovations.

- Cities worldwide engage through forums, roundtables, technical guidance launches, and participatory campaigns.

In summary, World Cities Day is a key annual event advancing global dialogue and cooperation for sustainable, people-focused urban growth.

What is the 2025 World Cities Day theme and host city

The 2025 World Cities Day theme is “People-Centred Smart Cities,” emphasizing the use of technology, data-driven decision-making, and artificial intelligence to improve urban life and make cities more inclusive, resilient, and focused on human well-being. The official host city for the global observance in 2025 is Bogotá, Colombia.

Uncle Sam and his advices for youngsters

 

Uncle Sam is a symbolic figure who represents the United States government, often depicted in popular culture and history as a wise, paternal character offering guidance, especially to the younger generation. While Uncle Sam's most famous appearance is as a recruiting figure ("I Want YOU") used to inspire youth to serve their country, his persona as an advisor often emphasizes principles of responsibility, self-reliance, and civic duty.

Uncle Sam's Meaning and Symbolism

- Uncle Sam stands as a metaphor for the U.S. government and is associated with themes like patriotism, service, and the moral development of young Americans.

- Historically, his image has been used to encourage youngsters to take pride in their country, contribute to their communities, and grow into responsible adults.

- His origins trace back to Samuel Wilson, a supplier during the War of 1812, reinforcing the ideas of hard work and public service.

Advice Uncle Sam Might Give to Youngsters

- Become financially literate, avoid unnecessary debt, and start saving early for future independence.

- Seek education, ask questions, and develop the habit of lifelong learning to build both character and capacity.

- Embrace civic responsibility, such as voting and staying informed about national issues, contributing positively to society.

- Value hard work, integrity, and honesty as foundational virtues for personal and professional life.

Educational and Moral Messages Associated with Uncle Sam

- Encourages young people to dream big, prepare for the future, and make disciplined decisions.

- Stresses that adults (including figures like Uncle Sam) can guide and support youngsters, but true wisdom comes from personal initiative and self-discovery.

- Inspires youth to serve—not just in the military, but in helping their communities and being good citizens.

Uncle Sam remains a powerful symbol who, through cultural stories and visual propaganda, continues to promote the values of education, responsibility, and service among American youth.

Book of Uncle Sam and it's summery

There are several books with the title "Uncle Sam" or closely related to the concept, but the most historically significant is "The Adventures of Uncle Sam, in Search After His Lost Honor" (1816) by Frederick Augustus Fidfaddy. Below is a concise summary and context of this book, along with key modern interpretations:

Book Overview

- "The Adventures of Uncle Sam, in Search After His Lost Honor" is an allegorical satire published in 1816.

- The book uses Uncle Sam—a personification of America—as its protagonist, reflecting on the events and policies leading up to the War of 1812.

- It critiques political mismanagement and corruption in a satirical narrative style, similar to earlier British satires.

Summary

The story presents Uncle Sam embarking on a metaphorical journey to recover his "lost honor," symbolizing America's search for moral and political integrity after the turmoil of war. Throughout the story, Uncle Sam encounters figures representing various social and political interests, lampooning governmental errors, opportunism, and the loss of original American values. The book encourages readers to reflect on civic responsibility, patriotism, and the dangers of straying from national principles.

Other notable "Uncle Sam" books

- "Uncle Sam" (graphic novel, 1997) by Steve Darnall and Alex Ross: This graphic novel reimagines Uncle Sam as a lost, wandering figure, haunted by America's past and troubled by its present, ultimately representing the soul and conscience of the United States.

- "Uncle Sam" by Hal Marcovitz (non-fiction): Focuses on the origins and evolution of the Uncle Sam symbol and its significance in American culture and government.

These books use "Uncle Sam" either as a literal character or an allegorical device to explore themes of American identity, national values, and societal change.

Emma Watson her life and career

 

Emma Watson is a British actress and activist renowned for playing Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films and for her impactful work supporting women's rights.

Early Life

Emma Charlotte Duerre Watson was born on April 15, 1990, in Paris, France, to British parents who later divorced. She moved to Oxfordshire, England, where she attended the Dragon School and trained in acting at the Oxford branch of Stagecoach Theatre Arts. Watson reportedly expressed her desire to act from age six and performed in several school plays as a child.

Major Career Milestones

Watson came to global fame when cast as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, starting with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001). She played Hermione in all eight films across a decade, earning critical and popular acclaim that established her as a major star. Beyond Harry Potter, Watson pursued a diverse range of roles:

- Ballet Shoes (2007) and voiced The Tale of Despereaux (2008).

- My Week with Marilyn (2011), The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012), The Bling Ring (2013), and Noah (2014).

- Belle in Beauty and the Beast (2017) and Meg March in Little Women (2019).

Education and Activism

Watson studied at Brown University, completing her degree in English literature while continuing her film career. She is acclaimed for her advocacy on women’s rights, serving as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and launching the "HeForShe" campaign. Her activism and public influence have put her among Time magazine’s 100 most influential people and Forbes' highest-paid actresses.

Awards and Recognition

Watson has received many awards including a Young Artist Award, three MTV Movie Awards, British Artist of the Year (BAFTA), and inclusion in lists of influential and successful women such as Forbes' 30 Under 30.

Personal Philosophy and Impact

Besides her acting, Watson is known for her commitment to equality, education, and environmental issues, contributing her platform to global social causes and inspiring audiences for more than two decades.

Emma Watson is recognized not only for her memorable film roles but also as a passionate advocate for social change and education.

Key activism and charity work Emma Watson has done

Emma Watson has established herself as a significant activist and philanthropist, especially in the fields of gender equality, women’s rights, education, and sustainability.

Gender Equality & Women's Rights

- Appointed a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador in 2014, Watson launched the global HeForShe campaign to engage men and boys in advocating for gender equality.

- Delivered widely recognized speeches at the United Nations, galvanizing international attention and support for gender equality.

- Actively visited countries such as Bangladesh, Zambia, and Uruguay to promote girls’ education and the need for women's political participation.

- Helped to launch the Time's Up UK movement in 2018, addressing workplace harassment and gender discrimination, and personally donated £1 million to its Justice and Equality Fund.

Legal and Social Advocacy

- In 2019, Watson helped launch a free legal advice helpline for sexual harassment victims in the UK in collaboration with Rights of Women.

- Served on a G7 advisory body in 2019 to help shape international women's rights policy.

Community Empowerment

- As a One Young World Councilor, she supported youth leadership in gender equality and funded Emma Watson Scholarships for young activists attending global summits.

- Founded the feminist book club “Our Shared Shelf” in 2016, raising awareness about gender issues through literature.

Education and Sustainable Development

- Advocated for girls’ education and collaborated with organizations like Camfed and She’s the First to provide educational opportunities for girls worldwide.

- Promotes sustainable fashion by advocating ethical, eco-friendly practices in the industry and supporting sustainable fashion initiatives at high-profile events.

Emma Watson’s activism is broad, extending from global campaigns and legal reforms to literature, fashion, and hands-on work supporting girls' education. Her efforts have made her a respected leader and inspiration in the advocacy space worldwide.

मारिया कोरिना मचाडो पेरिस्का

मारिया कोरिना मचाडो पेरिस्का (जन्म 7 अक्टूबर 1967) वेनेजुएला की एक राजनीतिज्ञ और औद्योगिक इंजीनियर हैं जो वर्तमान में वेनेजुएला में विपक्षी नेता थीं। उन्होंने 2011 से 2014 तक वेनेजुएला की नेशनल असेंबली की निर्वाचित सदस्य के रूप में कार्य किया। वह 2025 नोबेल शांति पुरस्कार विजेता हैं।

बढ़ते अंधकार के बीच लोकतंत्र की लौ जलाए रखती हैं

मारिया कोरिना मचाडो ने वेनेजुएला में लगातार बढ़ते अधिनायकवाद के विरुद्ध लोकतंत्र के संघर्ष का नेतृत्व किया है। सुश्री मचाडो ने इंजीनियरिंग और वित्त की पढ़ाई की है और उनका व्यवसाय में एक छोटा सा करियर रहा है। 1992 में उन्होंने एटेनिया फाउंडेशन की स्थापना की, जो कराकास में बेघर बच्चों के कल्याण के लिए काम करता है।

दस साल बाद, वह सुमाते की संस्थापकों में से एक थीं, जो स्वतंत्र और निष्पक्ष चुनावों को बढ़ावा देता है और प्रशिक्षण एवं चुनाव निगरानी का संचालन करता है। 2010 में, वह रिकॉर्ड संख्या में वोट जीतकर नेशनल असेंबली के लिए चुनी गईं। शासन ने 2014 में उन्हें पद से हटा दिया। सुश्री मचाडो वेंटे वेनेजुएला विपक्षी दल का नेतृत्व करती हैं और 2017 में उन्होंने सोय वेनेजुएला गठबंधन की स्थापना में मदद की, जो देश में लोकतंत्र समर्थक ताकतों को राजनीतिक विभाजन रेखाओं के पार एकजुट करता है।

2023 में, उन्होंने 2024 के राष्ट्रपति चुनाव में राष्ट्रपति पद के लिए अपनी उम्मीदवारी की घोषणा की। जब उन्हें चुनाव लड़ने से रोक दिया गया, तो उन्होंने विपक्ष के वैकल्पिक उम्मीदवार एडमंडो गोंजालेज उरुतिया का समर्थन किया। विपक्ष ने व्यापक रूप से लामबंदी की और व्यवस्थित दस्तावेज़ एकत्र किए कि वे ही चुनाव के असली विजेता हैं। शासन ने जीत की घोषणा की और सत्ता पर अपनी पकड़ मज़बूत कर ली।

वेनेज़ुएला में लोकतंत्र को आगे बढ़ाने के अपने प्रयासों के लिए सुश्री मचाडो को सबसे पहले नोबेल शांति पुरस्कार मिल रहा है। लेकिन अंतरराष्ट्रीय स्तर पर भी लोकतंत्र पीछे हट रहा है। लोकतंत्र – जिसे स्वतंत्र रूप से अपनी राय व्यक्त करने, वोट देने और निर्वाचित सरकार में प्रतिनिधित्व करने के अधिकार के रूप में समझा जाता है – देशों के भीतर और देशों के बीच शांति की नींव है।

The Commonwealth

The Commonwealth is a free association of 56 sovereign countries, most of which are former territories of the British Empire. They have chosen to maintain ties of friendship and cooperation, with the British monarch as the symbolic head of the association. Some prominent members include Canada, Australia, India, Nigeria, and the United Kingdom, but the group also includes countries that were not former British colonies, such as Gabon and Togo.  

Membership details

The Commonwealth of Nations is a voluntary association of 56 independent and equal member states. 

Origin: The Commonwealth evolved from the British Empire, with many members being former dependencies that chose to remain connected. 

Symbolic Head: King Charles III is the symbolic head of the association, but he is the head of state in only 14 member countries, known as Commonwealth realms. 

Diverse Membership: The group is diverse, including republics, constitutional monarchies, and some countries with their own monarchs. 

Non-former colonies: Newer members like Gabon and Togo show that the Commonwealth is an attractive forum for cooperation and dialogue beyond its historical roots. 

Population: The Commonwealth is home to almost one-third of the world's population, with India being the largest country by population, accounting for about half of the total. 

Meetings: Member countries meet every two years at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. 

The Commonwealth of Nations

The Commonwealth of Nations, commonly known as the Commonwealth, is an intergovernmental organization of 56 member countries, mostly former territories of the British Empire. It promotes international cooperation on economic, social, and human rights issues.

Here is a list of the 56 Commonwealth member countries as of 2025:

- Antigua and Barbuda  

- Australia  

- The Bahamas  

- Bangladesh  

- Barbados  

- Belize  

- Botswana  

- Brunei Darussalam  

- Cameroon  

- Canada  

- Cyprus  

- Dominica  

- Eswatini  

- Fiji  

- The Gambia  

- Ghana  

- Grenada  

- Guyana  

- India  

- Jamaica  

- Kenya  

- Kiribati  

- Lesotho  

- Malawi  

- Malaysia  

- Maldives  

- Malta  

- Mauritius  

- Mozambique  

- Namibia  

- Nauru  

- New Zealand  

- Nigeria  

- Pakistan  

- Papua New Guinea  

- Rwanda  

- Saint Kitts and Nevis  

- Saint Lucia  

- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines  

- Samoa  

- Seychelles  

- Sierra Leone  

- Singapore  

- Solomon Islands  

- South Africa  

- Sri Lanka  

- Tanzania (United Republic)  

- Tonga  

- Trinidad and Tobago  

- Tuvalu  

- Uganda  

- United Kingdom  

- Vanuatu  

- Zambia  

- Zimbabwe  

- Gabon*  

- Togo*  

(* Gabon and Togo joined recently despite no British colonial history).

The Commonwealth is headquartered in London, United Kingdom, and its members cooperate on economic and social development, democratic governance, and human rights promotion. Membership is voluntary and open to countries that meet the criteria and accept the Commonwealth’s values and goals.

Nikola Tesla his Life and Works

 

Nikola Tesla (1856–1943) was a Serbian-American inventor, electrical and mechanical engineer, renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the modern alternating current (AC) electricity supply system. Born in the Austrian Empire (now Croatia), Tesla showed remarkable imagination and creativity from an early age and pursued engineering studies across Europe. He immigrated to the United States in 1884, initially working briefly for Thomas Edison before setting out independently.

Tesla is best known for inventing the AC induction motor and polyphase AC system, which revolutionized electrical power transmission and remain foundational to today's electric power grids. His patents in AC machinery, sold to George Westinghouse, earned him recognition and financial success. Among his other notable inventions is the Tesla coil, invented in 1891, an induction coil still widely used in radio technology and electronics.

Tesla conducted many experiments on high-voltage, high-frequency electricity, wireless power transmission, and electromagnetic radiation, including early X-ray work and wireless-controlled devices. His ambitious Wardenclyffe Tower project aimed to provide worldwide wireless communication and electricity but was never completed due to lack of funding.

Throughout his life, Tesla held around 300 patents across various fields and achieved major advancements that influenced radio, electric lighting, industrial machinery, and the electric power industry. Despite his brilliance and public acclaim, Tesla struggled financially and battled mental health issues later in life. He died in New York City in 1943, leaving a legacy as one of the most visionary inventors in history whose innovations still shape modern electrical engineering and technology.

What were Tesla's major inventions and their impact

Tesla’s major inventions include the polyphase AC power system and induction motor, the Tesla coil, early radio components and remote control, high‑frequency lighting and X‑ray experiments, and the ambitious Wardenclyffe wireless project, each reshaping how electricity is generated, transmitted, and used worldwide. These advances enabled long‑distance power grids, efficient industrial motors, foundational radio/TV circuitry, practical wireless control, and new research frontiers in electromagnetism and communications.

AC power system

Tesla discovered and patented the rotating magnetic field and developed a practical polyphase alternating‑current system of dynamos, transformers, and motors, which he licensed to George Westinghouse in 1888. This system made efficient long‑distance transmission possible and became the global standard for electric power generation and distribution by outperforming contemporary direct‑current networks.

Induction motor

Building on the rotating magnetic field, Tesla created the AC induction motor (1887–1888), eliminating commutators and brushes and enabling robust, reliable electric drives. Polyphase induction motors are self‑starting, simpler to construct, and better suited to AC networks, transforming industrial power and machinery worldwide.

Niagara Falls and electrification

Westinghouse used Tesla’s AC system to light the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and then to build the first large‑scale hydroelectric AC plant at Niagara Falls, delivering power to Buffalo by 1896. These successes validated AC for urban and industrial electrification and accelerated adoption of Tesla’s approach across the United States and beyond.

Tesla coil

Invented in 1891, the Tesla coil is a high‑frequency, high‑voltage resonant transformer that Tesla used to study wireless energy, resonance, and radio phenomena. Though a laboratory and educational staple, its principles influenced early radio and later high‑voltage circuits used in radio and television technologies.

Radio and remote control

Tesla developed essential radio components such as tuned circuits and antennas and in 1898 publicly demonstrated a radio‑controlled boat (teleautomation) at Madison Square Garden, proving practical wireless control. In 1943, the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated key Marconi tuning claims by citing prior work from Tesla and others, complicating priority while underscoring Tesla’s foundational contributions to radio, even as historians note the Court did not anoint a single “inventor of radio”.

X‑rays and high‑frequency lighting

In the 1890s Tesla conducted shadowgraph experiments akin to X‑rays and worked on high‑frequency lighting, including fluorescent and neon concepts and a carbon button lamp. These studies advanced understanding of high‑voltage, high‑frequency effects and influenced later lighting technologies and imaging research.

Wireless power and Wardenclyffe

At Colorado Springs (1899–1900), Tesla reported “terrestrial stationary waves,” generated artificial lightning, and famously lit lamps wirelessly at distance, experiments that informed his later wireless power ideas. The Wardenclyffe Tower (1901–1906) sought global wireless communication and power transmission but was abandoned after funding collapsed, leaving a visionary template that inspired later work on resonant wireless energy transfer and global radio networks.

Tesla turbine and mechanical ideas

In the 1900s Tesla designed a bladeless “Tesla turbine” and explored advanced mechanical oscillators, though these saw limited commercialization at the time. The turbine’s boundary‑layer concept continues to inform niche turbomachinery and micro‑turbine research directions.

Patents and lasting impact

Tesla secured more than 100 U.S. patents and hundreds worldwide across motors, generators, transformers, lighting, radio, and control systems, reflecting the breadth of his inventive output. Collectively, his inventions undergird modern power systems, industrial drives, radio technology, and remote control, shaping the infrastructure and electronics of the 20th and 21st centuries.

TDS and TCS in details

 

Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) and Tax Collected at Source (TCS) are both tax collection mechanisms under the Indian Income Tax Act designed to ensure tax is collected efficiently and prevent tax evasion, but they differ fundamentally in their application, responsibility, and timing.

What is TDS (Tax Deducted at Source)?

TDS is an indirect tax where the payer deducts a certain percentage of tax before making a payment to the recipient, and this deducted amount is deposited with the government. It is applicable on various types of payments such as salaries, interest, rent, professional fees, commission, and contract payments. The responsibility to deduct and deposit TDS lies with the payer. TDS is deducted when the payment is due or made, whichever is earlier. The deducted tax is credited to the recipient's tax account and helps in reducing their overall tax liability when filing returns. Common forms used for TDS filings include Form 24Q, 26Q, and 27Q, filed quarterly. The due date for depositing TDS is generally the 7th day of the following month after the deduction.

What is TCS (Tax Collected at Source)?

TCS is a tax collected by the seller from the buyer at the time of the sale of certain specified goods, such as alcohol, timber, scrap metal, minerals, tendu leaves, forest products, automobiles, and toll tickets. The seller collects this tax over and above the sale price and deposits it with the government. The responsibility for collecting and depositing TCS lies with the seller. TCS is collected at the time of sale and credited to the buyer’s tax account, which the buyer can adjust against their tax liability. The return for TCS is filed quarterly in Form 27EQ. The due date to deposit TCS is also the 7th of the next month after collection. TCS helps the government track high-value transactions and avoid tax evasion in certain industries.

Both TDS and TCS help the Indian government ensure tax compliance and prevent black money circulation by collecting tax at different points in the financial flow—TDS at the time of payment and TCS at the time of transaction of certain goods.

Key Differences

Here are the key differences between TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) and TCS (Tax Collected at Source) in points:

Definition:  

  - TDS is tax deducted by the payer before making a payment to the payee.  

  - TCS is tax collected by the seller from the buyer at the time of sale of specified goods.

Applicability:  

  - TDS applies to payments like salary, interest, rent, professional fees, etc.  

  - TCS applies on sale of specified goods like alcohol, minerals, scrap, automobiles, etc.

Responsible Person:  

  - The payer deducts and deposits TDS.  

  - The seller collects and deposits TCS.

Timing of Tax Deduction/Collection:  

  - TDS is deducted when payment is made or due (whichever is earlier).  

  - TCS is collected at the time of sale.

Tax Credit:  

  - TDS is credited to the payee’s tax account.  

  - TCS is credited to the buyer’s tax account.

Return Filing Forms:  

  - TDS returns are filed quarterly using forms like 24Q, 26Q, or 27Q.  

  - TCS returns are filed quarterly using Form 27EQ.

Due Date for Deposit:  

  - Both TDS and TCS must be deposited by the 7th of the following month after deduction/collection.

Purpose:  

  - TDS ensures tax collection at the time of payment to prevent tax evasion on income.  

  - TCS helps track and collect tax on the transaction of specific goods to curb evasion and black money.

These points highlight the fundamental distinctions and operational differences between TDS and TCS systems in India.

TDS Return Forms

The key TDS return forms used for filing Tax Deducted at Source returns in India are:

Form 24Q: Quarterly statement for TDS deducted from salary payments. This form contains details of salaries paid and TDS deducted on them. It is filed by employers.

Form 26Q: Quarterly statement for TDS deducted on payments other than salaries, such as interest, professional fees, rent, commission, etc.

Form 27Q: Quarterly statement for TDS deducted on payments made to non-residents other than salaries. This form covers payments like interest, dividends, and other sums payable to non-resident Indians and foreign companies.

Form 26QB: Statement for TDS deducted on payment related to the purchase of immovable property (sale consideration).

Form 26QC: Challan-cum-statement filed for TDS deducted on rent payments under section 194-IB.

Form 26QD: For TDS deducted under section 194M on payments for works contracts, commission or professional and technical services (introduced more recently).

Form 26QE: For TDS deducted on transactions involving cryptocurrency.

Form 27EQ: This is actually the TCS return form (Tax Collected at Source) filed quarterly by the seller collecting tax on specified goods.

Due dates for filing these quarterly TDS returns are generally:  

- Q1 (April to June) - 31st July  

- Q2 (July to September) - 31st October  

- Q3 (October to December) - 31st January  

- Q4 (January to March) - 31st May  

However, for forms related to property and rent like 26QB and 26QC, the due date is usually within 30 days from the end of the month in which TDS was deducted.

Employers and other deductors must file the appropriate TDS return forms timely to ensure proper credit of TDS to the deductees and to avoid penalties. TDS certificates such as Form 16 (for salary), Form 16A (for other payments), Form 16B (property transactions), and Form 16C (rent) are issued based on these returns.

Why Rejected Hearts Fear to Love Again

A person who has experienced rejection in a relationship fears trying a new relationship primarily because rejection triggers deep emotional pain and vulnerability. This fear stems from an inner belief of being unlovable, unwanted, or unacceptable, which activates the brain’s pain centers similarly to physical pain. Consequently, the mind and body are wired to avoid this pain, leading to a protective mechanism that prevents the person from risking new emotional closeness. The fear can cause hyperawareness of potential rejection signs, increased anxiety, and avoidance behaviors to shield oneself from future hurt. This state may result in reluctance to trust or be vulnerable with new partners, leading to difficulty in initiating or sustaining new relationships.

The fear of rejection is also connected with feelings of emotional instability, low self-worth, and sometimes a fear of abandonment. After a rejection or breakup, the brain tends to cling to the safety of familiarity—even if that familiarity is loneliness or previous hurt—because it is perceived as less risky than the unknown. This anxiety often manifests as anticipation of rejection or avoidance of intimacy altogether, even when there is no current threat, because the past trauma colors the person's expectations in future relationships.

In summary, the fear of trying a new relationship after rejection is fundamentally a protective emotional response generated by the pain and trauma of past rejection. It reflects a survival mechanism aimed at avoiding repeated emotional harm but can interfere with the ability to form new, fulfilling close relationships without addressing underlying fears and insecurities.

What psychological causes make someone fear starting a new relationship

The psychological causes that make someone fear starting a new relationship include a range of emotional and cognitive factors deeply rooted in past experiences and personal insecurities:

1. Fear of Vulnerability: Entering a new relationship requires emotional openness and trust, which makes people feel vulnerable. The risk of being judged or rejected for who they truly are can provoke anxiety and fear.

2. Past Trauma and Negative Experiences: Previous relationship hurts, betrayals, or emotional neglect can create lasting fears. Even subtle cues in new relationships can activate those old insecurities, making new emotional risks feel dangerous.

3. Attachment Styles: Early childhood experiences shape attachment styles; insecure attachments (anxious or avoidant) lead to fears of abandonment, distrust, and difficulty forming secure bonds in adulthood.

4. Low Self-Esteem and Self-Doubt: Feelings of inadequacy or not being “good enough” can cause overthinking and misinterpreting normal relationship challenges as signs of rejection or failure.

5. Fear of Abandonment: The fear of being left alone or emotionally deserted, often stemming from childhood or past relationship losses, influences reluctance to get close or trust new partners.

6. Fear of Losing Independence: Some people fear that relationships will result in losing personal freedom or autonomy, causing resistance to commitment.

7. Overthinking and Anxiety: Excessive worry about maintaining the relationship, fear of making mistakes, or doubting a partner’s commitment creates anxiety that blocks full engagement.

8. Fear of Intimacy: Deep-seated fear of emotional closeness, often linked to fear of judgment or previous emotional pain, causes people to avoid or sabotage potential relationships.

In summary, fear of starting new relationships is typically multifaceted involving vulnerability fears, unresolved past traumas, attachment insecurities, and low self-worth, all of which contribute to anxiety and reluctance about intimacy and commitment.

What practical steps help rebuild confidence after rejection

Practical steps to rebuild confidence after rejection include:

1. Acknowledge and Validate Emotions: Allow yourself to feel the hurt and disappointment without suppressing it. Understanding that rejection is a normal part of life and does not define your worth is important for healing.

2. Challenge Negative Self-Talk: Replace self-critical thoughts like "I'm not good enough" with kinder, more realistic affirmations. Positive self-talk helps restore self-esteem and reframes rejection as an opportunity rather than a failure.

3. Focus on Strengths and Achievements: Remind yourself of past successes and personal qualities to counteract feelings of inadequacy. Setting realistic goals unrelated to the rejection can also build a sense of accomplishment.

4. Step Outside Comfort Zones: Engage in new social activities or hobbies that push you gently outside familiar patterns. This builds social confidence and reduces fear of rejection over time.

5. Practice Self-Care: Regular exercise, good sleep, hobbies, and mindfulness improve emotional resilience and boost mood, indirectly improving confidence.

6. Seek Support: Share your feelings with trusted friends, family, or therapists. External validation and different perspectives help dispel isolating thoughts of unworthiness.

7. Embrace a Growth Mindset: View rejection not as a permanent stop but as a learning and growth opportunity that can lead to better outcomes in the future. Taking small risks intentionally helps build your confidence muscle.

8. Exposure to Rejection: Gradually desensitize yourself by deliberately putting yourself in situations where rejection is possible but manageable. This reduces the fearful impact of rejection and normalizes the experience.

Together, these steps nurture resilience and rebuild confidence after rejection, enabling healthier future relationships and personal growth.

Why women show off herself

Women who expose more of their bodies or dress in revealing ways do not necessarily do so because they “want sex” or because they “have mental issues.” Research shows that the motivations behind such behavior are highly diverse—psychological, social, cultural, and personal—and rarely as simplistic as a single intent or pathology.

Psychological and Emotional Reasons

Many women dress revealingly to enhance self-esteem or feel confident about their appearance. When a woman feels attractive in her own skin, wearing certain clothes can strengthen her sense of self-worth and body positivity, even if no one else is involved. Others do it as a form of self-satisfaction—to feel feminine or beautiful, not necessarily to attract anyone.

Self-Expression and Empowerment

Fashion is one of the most visible forms of identity expression. For some, dressing provocatively reflects personal empowerment and autonomy over one’s body. It can be an act of reclaiming control in societies that often police women’s appearance and modesty standards. In this sense, it’s about challenging norms and asserting ownership of their image rather than sexual solicitation.

Social and Cultural Factors

Cultural norms and media trends strongly shape fashion choices. In Western societies, where individuality and body-positivity movements are common, revealing fashion may symbolize freedom, progressiveness, or alignment with modern ideals of beauty. Celebrities and influencers also influence perception by making certain fashion styles aspirational.

Sexual and Relational Context

While sexual signaling can be one factor, it’s often partner-specific rather than generalized. Studies show women might wear intimate or revealing clothing in private contexts—for example, during relationships—to enhance intimacy or maintain attraction with a chosen partner. This does not imply a universal desire for sex with others.

When It Reflects Deeper Issues

In some cases, revealing clothing may relate to low self-esteem or a search for validation, especially if rooted in negative body image or trauma. However, this is not the norm, and it should not be pathologized or stigmatized—many people of all genders use appearance to manage self-worth.

In conclusion, when a woman dresses revealingly, the gesture usually reflects self-expression, confidence, or empowerment, not necessarily sexual readiness or mental distress. The interpretation often says more about societal perceptions and gender norms than about the woman herself.

Could mental health issues cause exhibitionist behavior in women

Yes, mental health issues can cause exhibitionist behavior in women, though such behavior is much less common in women than in men. Exhibitionistic disorder is classified as a paraphilic disorder characterized by an intense, recurrent urge to expose one's genitals or engage in sexual acts in front of non-consenting people for sexual arousal. While most exhibitionists are men, some women may exhibit genital exhibitionism or exhibitionistic behavior under certain mental health conditions.

Exhibitionistic disorder in women is often linked to underlying psychological challenges such as low self-esteem, past trauma, mood disorders (including bipolar disorder and depression), impulse control disorders like ADHD, personality disorders, and sometimes sexual addiction. It can manifest as compulsive or impulsive behaviors that cause distress or interfere with social, occupational, or personal functioning.

Women exhibiting exhibitionistic behavior may do so as a way to seek validation, power, or control, especially if they have histories of emotional deprivation or trauma. In some cases, exhibitionism serves as a coping mechanism for emotional needs unmet in other areas of life.

The clinical diagnosis of exhibitionistic disorder requires persistent behavior over time (usually six months or more), significant distress or impairment, and acting on urges with non-consenting individuals. Dressing provocatively or consensual appearance in media does not itself constitute exhibitionistic disorder, highlighting that not all exhibitionist-type behavior is pathological.

In summary, exhibitionist behavior in women can be caused by specific mental health disorders but is much rarer and often linked to complex psychological and emotional issues rather than just sexual desire.

बनारस एक परिचय

 

बनारस (जिसे वाराणसी या काशी भी कहा जाता है) भारत के उत्तर प्रदेश राज्य में गंगा नदी के तट पर स्थित दुनिया के सबसे प्राचीन जीवित शहरों में से एक है। यह नगर भारतीय संस्कृति, आस्था, और ज्ञान का केंद्र माना जाता है, जिसे “मंदिरों का शहर”, “शिव की नगरी” और “भारत की धार्मिक राजधानी” जैसे विशेषणों से संबोधित किया जाता है।

ऐतिहासिक व धार्मिक महत्व

बनारस का इतिहास सहस्रों वर्षों पुराना है। महाभारत और पुराणों में इसका वर्णन मिलता है, और इसे भगवान शिव का निवास माना गया है। हिन्दू परंपरा के अनुसार यहां मृत्यु व्यक्ति को मोक्ष प्रदान करती है। यहीं निकट सारनाथ में गौतम बुद्ध ने ज्ञान प्राप्ति के बाद अपना पहला उपदेश दिया, जिससे यह बौद्ध धर्म के लिए भी अत्यंत पवित्र स्थान बन गया। जैन धर्म अनुयायी भी इसे तीर्थ मानते हैं क्योंकि तेईसवें तीर्थंकर पार्श्वनाथ का जन्म यहीं हुआ था।

सांस्कृतिक और शैक्षणिक भूमिका

वाराणसी भारतीय संस्कृति और संगीत का प्रमुख केंद्र रहा है। हिन्दुस्तानी शास्त्रीय संगीत का चर्चित “बनारस घराना” यहीं उत्पन्न हुआ। नगर ने अनेक विद्वानों, कवियों और संतों को जन्म दिया — कबीर, तुलसीदास, रविदास, मुंशी प्रेमचंद, जयशंकर प्रसाद, उस्ताद बिस्मिल्लाह खां और पं. रवि शंकर ऐसे ही कुछ नाम हैं। यही वह स्थान है जहाँ तुलसीदास ने रामचरितमानस की रचना की।

प्रमुख धार्मिक और सांस्कृतिक स्थल

यहाँ के काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर, दशाश्वमेध घाट और अस्सी घाट विशेष प्रसिद्ध हैं। गंगा आरती बनारस की आस्था का प्रमुख प्रतीक है। साथ ही यह व्यापार का भी केंद्र रहा है, विशेषकर बनारसी रेशमी साड़ियों और सोने-चाँदी के ब्रोकेड वस्त्रों के लिए।

शिक्षा और साहित्य

बनारस शिक्षा का प्राचीन केंद्र रहा है। यहाँ प्रतिष्ठित विश्वविद्यालय जैसे बनारस हिंदू विश्वविद्यालय (BHU), महात्मा गांधी काशी विद्यापीठ, संपूर्णानंद संस्कृत विश्वविद्यालय और सेंट्रल इंस्टीट्यूट ऑफ हायर टिबेटियन स्टडीज स्थित हैं।

उल्लेखनीय उद्धरण

अमेरिकी लेखक मार्क ट्वेन ने कहा था:  

“बनारस इतिहास से भी पुराना है, परंपरा से पुराना है, किंवदंती से भी पुराना है, और इन सबके जोड़ से भी दुगुना पुराना है।”

संक्षेप में, बनारस भारत की आत्मा का प्रतीक है—जहाँ धर्म, संस्कृति, शिक्षा और कला सदियों से एक साथ प्रवाहित हो रहे हैं।

बनारस के प्रमुख तीर्थस्थल और उनका इतिहास

बनारस (वाराणसी या काशी) भारत का वह प्राचीन तीर्थ है जिसे "मोक्ष की नगरी" कहा जाता है। यहाँ स्थित तीर्थस्थल धार्मिक, सांस्कृतिक और ऐतिहासिक दृष्टि से अत्यंत महत्वपूर्ण हैं, जो हिंदू, बौद्ध और जैन परंपराओं से गहराई से जुड़े हैं।

काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर

यह वाराणसी का सबसे प्रसिद्ध और पवित्र मंदिर है, भगवान शिव को समर्पित बारह ज्योतिर्लिंगों में प्रमुख स्थान रखता है। माना जाता है कि इस मंदिर में दर्शन करने से मोक्ष की प्राप्ति होती है। इसका इतिहास अत्यंत प्राचीन है; वर्तमान मंदिर का पुनर्निर्माण महारानी अहिल्याबाई होल्कर ने 1780 ई. में करवाया था, और बाद में महाराजा रणजीत सिंह ने इसके शिखर पर सोने का आवरण चढ़वाया।

माता अन्नपूर्णा मंदिर

काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर के समीप स्थित इस मंदिर में देवी अन्नपूर्णा की पूजा होती है, जिन्हें अन्न और समृद्धि की देवी कहा जाता है। यह विश्वास है कि काशी में भोजन और जीवन की निरंतरता देवी अन्नपूर्णा की कृपा से ही है।

संकटमोचन हनुमान मंदिर

यह मंदिर गोस्वामी तुलसीदास द्वारा स्थापित माना जाता है। यह भगवान हनुमान को समर्पित है और विशेष रूप से मंगलवार व शनिवार को अत्यधिक भीड़ रहती है। यहाँ भक्त अपने संकटों की मुक्ति और शांति की प्रार्थना करने आते हैं।

दुर्गा कुंड मंदिर

यह मंदिर देवी दुर्गा को समर्पित है, और इसका निर्माण 18वीं शताब्दी में मराठा शासकों ने करवाया था। मंदिर के निकट एक बड़ा कुंड (तालाब) है, जिसे गंगा से जुड़ा हुआ माना जाता है। नवरात्रि के समय यहां विशेष पूजा होती है।

काल भैरव मंदिर

काल भैरव को वाराणसी का "कोतवाल" माना गया है। यह मंदिर भगवान शिव के भयावह रूप को समर्पित है, जिनकी पूजा बिना अनुमति के काशी में निवास नहीं की जा सकती। यह नगर की रक्षा का प्रतीक है।

अस्सी घाट

गंगा और असि नदी के संगम पर स्थित यह घाट साधना, योग और पूजा का प्रमुख केंद्र है। कहा जाता है कि भगवान शिव ने यहाँ एक असि नामक राक्षस का वध किया था, जिससे घाट का नाम पड़ा।

दशाश्वमेध घाट

वाराणसी का सबसे प्रसिद्ध घाट, जहाँ भगवान ब्रह्मा ने भगवान शिव की आराधना हेतु दस अश्वमेध यज्ञ किए थे। यहाँ हर संध्या “गंगा आरती” का अद्भुत दृश्य देखा जाता है जो भक्तों को आध्यात्मिक आनन्द प्रदान करता है।

मणिकर्णिका घाट

यह घाट जीवन और मृत्यु के संगम का प्रतीक है, जहाँ शवदाह संस्कार किए जाते हैं। पौराणिक कथा के अनुसार, माता पार्वती का कर्णफूल यहाँ गिरा था, जिससे इसका नाम मणिकर्णिका पड़ा।

सारनाथ

वाराणसी से लगभग 10 किमी दूर स्थित यह स्थान बौद्ध धर्म के अनुयायियों के लिए अत्यंत पवित्र है, क्योंकि यहीं भगवान बुद्ध ने ज्ञान प्राप्ति के बाद पहला प्रवचन दिया था। यहाँ धामेख स्तूप और अशोक स्तंभ विशेष दर्शनीय हैं।

संक्षेप में, बनारस के तीर्थस्थल न केवल धार्मिक भावनाओं का केंद्र हैं, बल्कि भारत की आध्यात्मिक चेतना और सांस्कृतिक निरंतरता का सजीव प्रमाण भी हैं।

बनारस के प्राचीन मंदिरों से जुड़ी प्रमुख कहानियाँ

बनारस (वाराणसी) के प्राचीन मंदिर केवल आस्था के प्रतीक नहीं हैं, बल्कि इनसे जुड़ी अनेक पौराणिक कथाएँ हिन्दू धर्म, संस्कृति और आध्यात्मिक परंपरा की गहराई को दर्शाती हैं। नीचे इनके प्रमुख मंदिरों से संबंधित रोचक कहानियाँ दी गई हैं।

काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर की कथा

पौराणिक मान्यता के अनुसार जब ब्रह्मा और विष्णु के बीच श्रेष्ठता को लेकर विवाद हुआ, तब शिव प्रकट हुए और उन्होंने कहा—जिसे मेरी ज्योतिर्लिंग के अंत या आरंभ का पता चलेगा, वही सर्वोच्च होगा। विष्णु ने धरती की ओर जाकर शोध किया और ब्रह्मा ऊपर की ओर। विष्णु लौट आए और सत्य बोले, परंतु ब्रह्मा ने असत्य कहा। इस पर शिव ने ब्रह्मा को शाप दिया कि उनकी पूजा कभी नहीं होगी, और वहीं पहला ज्योतिर्लिंग “विश्वनाथ” रूप में प्रकट हुआ।

एक अन्य कथा के अनुसार, देवी पार्वती अपनी मायके में असंतुष्ट थीं, तो भगवान शिव उन्हें अपने नित्य निवास के लिए काशी लेकर आए और वहीं स्वयं को विश्वनाथ ज्योतिर्लिंग के रूप में स्थापित किया।

काल भैरव मंदिर की कथा

काशी खंड के अनुसार, जब ब्रह्मा ने झूठ कहा, तो शिव के क्रोध से उनके भौंहों से एक भयानक रूप उत्पन्न हुआ—**भैरव**। उन्होंने ब्रह्मा का एक सिर काट दिया। इस कारण भैरव पर ब्रह्महत्या का दोष लगा और वे प्रायश्चित हेतु काशी पहुंचे। गंगा स्नान और तपस्या के पश्चात वे “काशी के कोतवाल” नियत किए गए। आज भी उन्हें नगर रक्षक माना जाता है।

अन्नपूर्णा देवी मंदिर की कथा

मान्यता है कि एक बार भगवान शिव ने संसार की नश्वरता के उपदेश में कहा कि भोजन केवल माया है। देवी पार्वती नाराज होकर काशी से चली गईं, और पूरा जग भूख से व्याकुल हो गया। तब शिव ने उन्हें मनाया, जिसके बाद वे “अन्नपूर्णा” रूप में काशी लौटीं और प्रजा को अन्नदान किया। इसलिए काशी में कभी भोजन की कमी नहीं होती।

त्रिलोचन महादेव मंदिर की कथा

त्रिलोचन घाट स्थित यह मंदिर काशी का अत्यंत प्राचीन तीर्थ है। कहा जाता है कि तीन नदियों—गंगा, नर्मदा और पिप्पिला—का संगम यहाँ अदृश्य रूप से होता है। स्कंद पुराण के काशी खंड में उल्लेख है कि यहाँ भगवान शिव के तीसरे नेत्र की प्रतीक पूजा होती है। यह स्थान “त्रिलोचन” (तीन नेत्र वाले) स्वरूप को समर्पित है।

दुर्गा कुंड मंदिर की कथा

कथा के अनुसार यह मंदिर देवी पार्वती के “दुर्गा” रूप की स्थापना से जुड़ा है। यहाँ का कुंड गंगा से रहस्यमय मार्ग द्वारा जुड़ा माना जाता है। पौराणिक मान्यता है कि मंदिर में विराजमान मूर्ति स्वयं प्रकट हुई थी, जिसे किसी ने स्थापित नहीं किया।

मृत्युंजय महादेव मंदिर की कथा

यह मंदिर रोगों से मुक्ति देने वाले शिव के “मृत्युंजय” रूप को समर्पित है। किंवदंती है कि यहाँ का जल हर प्रकार की बीमारी और अकाल मृत्यु से रक्षा करता है। यहाँ भक्त “मृत्युंजय जप” करते हैं और मंदिर के पवित्र कूप से जल लेकर स्नान करते हैं ताकि जीवन दीर्घ और निरोग हो।

वाराणसी देवी और त्रिलोचन कथा

यह कथा शहर की देवी “वाराणसी देवी” से जुड़ी है, जिनकी प्रतिमा त्रिलोचन घाट पर शिव मंदिर के प्रांगण में स्थित है। पुराणों के काशी खंड में लिखा है कि यह देवी स्वयं काशी की रक्षक और अधिष्ठात्री शक्ति हैं, जो नगर की ऊर्जाओं और संतुलन की अभिव्यक्ति मानी जाती हैं।

इन मंदिरों की कथाएँ न केवल स्थानीय श्रद्धा का आधार हैं, बल्कि भारतीय अध्यात्म और पौराणिक चेतना की निरंतरता का प्रतीक भी हैं।

Why I feel that I am Unlucky

Feeling "unlucky" is a common human experience, usually driven by psychological, social, and cognitive factors rather than actual luck or fate. The sensation often arises from focusing on negative outcomes, comparing oneself to others, or expecting life to be fair in all circumstances. Several factors contribute to the sense of being unlucky:

Psychological Explanations

- People tend to notice and remember negative events more strongly than positive ones, a phenomenon known as negativity bias.

- Cognitive distortions, such as overgeneralization (believing "bad things always happen to me"), can reinforce the feeling of being unlucky.

- When expectations are not met, it can feel like bad luck, even if the events are random or have other explanations.

Social and Environmental Factors

- Comparisons with others who seem to have more success or good fortune amplify the sense of personal bad luck.

- Repeated exposure to stories about others' success can distort perceptions of one’s own experiences, making normal setbacks seem unusually unfortunate.

Philosophical and Cultural Views

- Many philosophical and spiritual traditions argue that "luck" is often a matter of perspective, and that success typically results from persistent effort rather than chance alone.

- Shifting focus from uncontrollable external circumstances to internal growth can help mitigate feelings of being unlucky.

Approaches to Overcome the Feeling

- Practicing gratitude and recognizing small wins can help retrain the mind to notice positive experiences.

- Rational analysis of events often reveals that setbacks are part of life for everyone, rather than signs of being inherently unlucky.

- Building resilience and problem-solving skills offers more control over life outcomes, reducing the belief in persistent bad luck.

If these feelings persist, exploring them with a counselor or trusted advisor can further clarify underlying causes and help develop healthier perspectives.

भारत में हाथियों की नई गणना: घटती संख्या, नई तकनीक और संरक्षण की चुनौती

भारत में हाल ही में प्रकाशित ‘Synchronous All India Elephant Estimation (SAIEE) 2021–25’ रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, देश की हाथी आबादी में लगभग 18% की गिरावट दर्ज की गई है, जो अब अनुमानित 22,446 है. यह डेटा नई वैज्ञानिक गणना पद्धति पर आधारित है, जिसे एक नई आधार-रेखा माना जाना चाहिए.

मुख्य निष्कर्ष

• कर्नाटक: 6,013 हाथी
• असम: 4,159 हाथी
• तमिलनाडु: 3,136 हाथी
• केरल: 2,785 हाथी
• भारत के 53% हाथी पश्चिमी घाट में पाए जाते हैं.

नई गणना पद्धति

इस बार की जनगणना में ‘Genetic Mark-Recapture’ तकनीक का इस्तेमाल हुआ है, जिसमें डीएनए सैंपलिंग द्वारा व्यक्तिगत हाथियों की पहचान और पुनः गणना की जाती है. यह तरीका पुराने प्रत्यक्ष अवलोकन मॉडल की तुलना में कहीं अधिक सटीक और विश्वसनीय है.

Genetic Mark-Recapture आधार: हाथियों के मल आदि से डीएनए लिया जाता है, उसे लैब में एनालाइज किया जाता है, और मशीन लर्निंग प्रोसेस के जरिए अनोखे हाथियों की पहचान की जाती है.

- इस तरह का आकलन आबादी का ज़्यादा वस्तुनिष्ठ (objective) और न्यूनतम अनुमान देता है.

संरक्षण की चुनौती

रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, आंकड़ों की गिरावट को मौजूदा घटनाओं के साथ जोड़ना सही नहीं होगा, क्योंकि यह नई तकनीक के आधार पर है. लेकिन संरक्षण के लिए प्रमुख चुनौतियाँ बनी हुई हैं:

- आवास विखंडन: सड़क, रेल, नहर परियोजनाएं हाथी गलियारों और उनके आवास को काटती हैं, जिससे उनकी आबादी बंट जाती है.

- मानव-हाथी संघर्ष: कृषि भूमि में घुसपैठ, इंसानों के साथ टकराव, और फसल को नुकसान जैसे मामलों में वृद्धि देखने को मिली है.

- अवैध खनन और अतिक्रमण: जंगल में संसाधनों का अवैध दोहन और बसावट हाथी आवास को लगातार छोटा कर रहा है.

नई गणना पद्धति दीर्घकालिक संरक्षण योजनाओं और नीतियों के लिए मजबूत वैज्ञानिक आधार तैयार करती है, जिससे संरक्षण प्रयासों में और अधिक पारदर्शिता, लक्ष्य निर्धारण और निगरानी संभव होगी.

तंत्रिका संबंधी विकारों के कारण हर साल 1.1 करोड़ लोगों की जान जाती है

 

विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन (WHO) ने 14 अक्टूबर को 'न्यूरोलॉजी पर वैश्विक स्थिति रिपोर्ट' शीर्षक से एक रिपोर्ट जारी की।

इसमें चेतावनी दी गई है कि दुनिया भर में तीन में से एक से भी कम देशों के पास तंत्रिका संबंधी विकारों के बढ़ते बोझ से निपटने के लिए कोई राष्ट्रीय नीति है, जो हर साल दुनिया भर में 1.1 करोड़ से ज़्यादा मौतों के लिए ज़िम्मेदार हैं।

इसमें बताया गया है कि तंत्रिका संबंधी बीमारियाँ अब वैश्विक आबादी के 40 प्रतिशत से ज़्यादा यानी 3 अरब से ज़्यादा लोगों को प्रभावित कर रही हैं।

WHO मस्तिष्क स्वास्थ्य को प्राथमिकता देने और तंत्रिका संबंधी देखभाल का विस्तार करने के लिए तत्काल, साक्ष्य-आधारित और समन्वित वैश्विक कार्रवाई का आह्वान करता है।

तंत्रिका संबंधी विकारों के कारण हर साल 1.1 करोड़ लोगों की जान जाती है

विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन (WHO) की नई रिपोर्ट ग्लोबल स्टेटस रिपोर्ट ऑन न्यूरोलॉजी के अनुसार, तंत्रिका संबंधी विकारों (Neurological Disorders) के कारण हर साल लगभग 1.1 करोड़ लोगों की मृत्यु होती है, जबकि दुनिया की 40% से अधिक आबादी — यानी 3 अरब से भी अधिक लोग — किसी न किसी रूप में न्यूरोलॉजिकल बीमारी से प्रभावित हैं।  

रिपोर्ट के प्रमुख निष्कर्ष  

WHO की यह रिपोर्ट बताती है कि दुनिया के केवल लगभग 32% देशों के पास तंत्रिका विकारों से निपटने के लिए राष्ट्रीय नीति है, और मात्र 18% देशों ने इसके लिए निर्धारित बजट बनाया है। निम्न-आय वाले देशों में न्यूरोलॉजिस्ट की संख्या अत्यंत कम है — यहाँ प्रति 1 लाख जनसंख्या पर, उच्च-आय वाले देशों की तुलना में 82 गुना कम विशेषज्ञ उपलब्ध हैं।  

विश्व स्तर पर मृत्यु और विकलांगता बढ़ाने वाले 10 प्रमुख तंत्रिका विकारों में स्ट्रोक, नवजात मस्तिष्क आघात (neonatal encephalopathy), माइग्रेन, अल्ज़ाइमर और अन्य डिमेंशिया, डायबिटिक न्यूरोपैथी, मेनिन्जाइटिस, मिर्गी (epilepsy), असमय जन्म संबंधी जटिलताएं, ऑटिज़्म स्पेक्ट्रम डिसऑर्डर और तंत्रिका तंत्र के कैंसर शामिल हैं।  

वैश्विक असमानता और स्वास्थ्य ढांचे की कमी  

रिपोर्ट में बताया गया है कि कम और मध्यम आय वाले देशों में रोगियों को इलाज या पुनर्वास सेवाएँ मिलना कठिन है। केवल 25% देशों ने न्यूरोलॉजिकल विकारों को यूनिवर्सल हेल्थ कवरेज (UHC) के तहत शामिल किया है। ग्रामीण क्षेत्रों में आवश्यक सेवाएँ जैसे स्ट्रोक यूनिट्स और पुनर्वास केंद्र बहुत सीमित हैं।  

विशेषज्ञों की टिप्पणी और सिफारिशें  

WHO के सहायक महानिदेशक डॉ. जेरेमी फैरर ने कहा कि “दुनिया में हर तीन में से एक व्यक्ति मस्तिष्क से संबंधित बीमारी या स्थिति से जूझ रहा है। हमें उनके लिए बेहतर स्वास्थ्य देखभाल सुनिश्चित करनी होगी”। संगठन ने सदस्य देशों से अपील की है कि वे मस्तिष्क स्वास्थ्य को राष्ट्रीय प्राथमिकता बनाएं, अनुसंधान में निवेश करें, और जमीनी स्तर पर चिकित्सा सेवाएँ सुलभ बनाएं।  

समाधान की दिशा में कदम  

2022 में WHO सदस्य देशों ने इंटरसेक्टरल ग्लोबल एक्शन प्लान ऑन एपिलेप्सी एंड अदर न्यूरोलॉजिकल डिसऑर्डर्स (2022–2031) को अपनाया था, जिसका उद्देश्य रोकथाम, शीघ्र पहचान, उपचार और पुनर्वास सेवाओं में सुधार लाना है। WHO ने चेतावनी दी है कि यदि तत्काल कदम नहीं उठाए गए, तो इन विकारों का बोझ और असमानताएँ आने वाले वर्षों में और अधिक बढ़ेंगी ।

कार्रवाई का रोडमैप

कार्रवाई के बिना, तंत्रिका संबंधी विकारों का बोझ बढ़ता रहेगा, जिससे वैश्विक स्वास्थ्य असमानताएँ और गहरी होंगी।

विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन सरकारों से आग्रह करता है कि:

i) साहसिक नेतृत्व और निरंतर निवेश के माध्यम से तंत्रिका संबंधी विकारों को नीतिगत प्राथमिकता बनाएँ।

ii) सार्वभौमिक स्वास्थ्य कवरेज और स्वास्थ्य प्रणाली को सुदृढ़ बनाकर तंत्रिका संबंधी देखभाल तक पहुँच का विस्तार करें।

iii) प्रमुख जोखिम और सुरक्षात्मक कारकों को लक्षित करते हुए समन्वित अंतर-क्षेत्रीय कार्रवाई के साथ जीवन भर मस्तिष्क स्वास्थ्य को बढ़ावा दें।

iv) साक्ष्य-आधारित निर्णय लेने और जवाबदेही के लिए डेटा प्रणालियों और निगरानी को मज़बूत करें।

Chess Related Tactics with Explanation

 

Chess tactics are short-term, concrete moves or sequences that create immediate advantages — such as winning material, delivering checkmate, or forcing positional improvements. Below are key chess tactics with clear explanations and examples based on expert guides and masters' analyses.

Fork

A fork happens when one piece attacks two or more enemy pieces simultaneously. Knights are especially effective at this because of their unique movement.  

Example: A knight on e5 can attack both the king on g6 and the queen on f7, forcing one to move.

Pin

A pin prevents a piece from moving because a more valuable piece behind it would be exposed. There are two types:

Absolute pin: moving the pinned piece would expose the king, making it illegal.  

Relative pin: moving the pinned piece would expose a more valuable piece but is still legal.  

Example: A bishop on b5 pins a knight on c6 to the black king on e8.

Skewer

A skewer is the reverse of a pin — a high-value piece is attacked first, and when it moves, a lower-value piece behind it becomes exposed.  

Example: A rook on e1 attacks the black queen on e7; when the queen moves, the rook captures a bishop behind it.

Decoy

A decoy draws an opponent’s piece onto a vulnerable or strategically inconvenient square.  

Example: Sacrificing a rook on e8 to lure the enemy king into a checkmating net.

Deflection

A deflection moves a defender away from guarding a key square or piece.  

Example: White plays Rxe8+, forcing the black knight to recapture and thus stop defending f6 — opening a path to attack.

Discovered Attack

A discovered attack occurs when a piece moves, uncovering an attack from another piece behind it.  

Example: Moving a knight away reveals a bishop’s attack along a diagonal.

Double Attack

A double attack occurs when one move creates two direct threats, such as check and an attack on a valuable piece. It’s one of the most decisive tactical patterns.  

Example: Queen check on e5 that also threatens the rook on h8.

Desperado

A desperado is when a threatened piece captures something before being taken, ensuring the player gains compensation.  

Example: A threatened rook captures another piece before it’s lost anyway.

Zwischenzug

A zwischenzug or “in-between move” interrupts a routine exchange with an unexpected threat or check, gaining tempo or positional advantage.  

Example: In the middle of a series of trades, inserting a check that forces a better outcome.

Windmill

The windmill is a special combination of discovered attacks and repeated checks. It can cause devastating material loss.  

Example: A bishop repeatedly checks the king, while another piece (often a rook) captures unprotected pieces after each forced king move.

Zugzwang

Zugzwang means "compulsion to move" in German. It occurs when any legal move a player makes worsens their position. This is common in endgames.  

Example: Forcing the opponent’s king into a position where it must abandon a pawn or key square.

Trapping a Piece

When a piece has no safe squares and is about to be captured, it’s called a trap.  

Example: Pushing pawns to restrict an opponent’s bishop, leaving it without escape [2].

X-Ray Attack

An X-ray occurs when a piece “sees through” another, attacking or defending a distant piece along the same line.  

Example: A rook behind another rook defends a piece on the same file indirectly.

Practical Advice

To master tactics:

- Practice puzzles daily.

- Analyze your games for missed tactical chances.

- Learn pattern recognition — repeated exposure builds intuition.

These tactical tools form the foundation of short-term calculation in chess and often decide games at all levels of play.

Eight Worldly Dharmas

 

The eight worldly dharmas, also called the eight worldly concerns, are pairs of hopes and fears that commonly drive people’s actions and mental states in daily life according to Buddhist teachings. These concerns are considered to be obstacles to genuine spiritual practice, as they keep one preoccupied with transient, external conditions rather than cultivating inner equanimity and wisdom.

List of Eight Worldly Dharmas

- Gain and loss: Attachment to acquiring possessions or achievements, and aversion to losing them.

- Pleasure and pain: Craving sensory or emotional pleasure, and aversion to discomfort or suffering.

- Praise and blame: Desire for approval and recognition, and fear of criticism or censure.

- Fame and disgrace: Preoccupation with reputation, recognition, and status, as opposed to fear of obscurity or dishonor.

Each pair is a duality linked by attachment and aversion—wanting one side, dreading the other. The more one is driven by these hopes and fears, the more one’s mind is distracted from the path of Dharma, which emphasizes equanimity and letting go of egoic desires.

Role in Buddhist Practice

In traditional Buddhist advice, genuine spiritual growth involves recognizing these eight influences and gradually releasing attachment to them, thereby developing greater inner peace regardless of changing circumstances. Letting go of these preoccupations is seen as essential for progress on the path to enlightenment.

Summary Table

Recognizing and working with these eight worldly dharmas is a key step in Buddhist practice for cultivating a mind that is stable, calm, and free from emotional turbulence driven by external conditions.

How do the eight worldly dharmas affect meditation practice

The eight worldly dharmas can seriously distract and hinder progress in meditation practice by pulling the mind toward attachment and aversion regarding pleasure and pain, gain and loss, praise and blame, fame and disgrace.

How They Affect Meditation

- Mental Distraction  

  These concerns fuel thoughts of acquiring pleasant experiences and avoiding unpleasant ones, causing mental agitation that prevents concentration during meditation. The mind becomes preoccupied with desires and fears, making it harder to cultivate calm and stability.

- Obstacle to Inner Peace  

  Attachment to these dharmas produces cycles of craving, anxiety, and judgment, which block the development of equanimity—a key goal of Buddhist meditation. As long as one is attached to these outcomes, moments of inner quiet are fragile and easily disturbed.

- Cultivation of Wrong Views  

  When meditation is motivated by hopes for gain or praise or avoidance of discomfort, it becomes a service to ego-driven thinking rather than genuine spiritual development. This encourages “wrong view,” undermining true realization and deeper wisdom.

Practical Meditation Advice

- Regular reflection and meditation on the eight worldly concerns help practitioners recognize the subtle ways these arise in the mind and weaken their hold.

- Techniques such as mindfulness and analytic meditation on impermanence and selflessness specifically target the root of these distractions.

By working to recognize and let go of these eight concerns, meditation deepens, and practitioners move closer to authentic inner peace and spiritual insight.

Key Buddhist texts that discuss the eight worldly dharmas

Key Buddhist texts that discuss the eight worldly dharmas include several canonical and traditional sources:

1. Anguttara Nikaya (Aṅguttara Nikāya) 

   Particularly in the "Book of Eights," suttas AN 8.5 (Paṭhama Lokadhamma Sutta) and AN 8.6 (Dutiyalokadhamma Sutta), the Buddha explicitly teaches about the eight worldly conditions: gain and loss, fame and disgrace, praise and blame, pleasure and pain. These sutras describe how these conditions revolve the world and are the basis of worldly attachment and suffering. They also emphasize mindfulness and equanimity in relation to these conditions.

2. Lokavipatti Sutta

   This sutta similarly outlines the "failings of the world" revolving around the eight worldly conditions. It teaches the impermanence and unsatisfactory nature of these worldly preoccupations.

3. Nagarjuna’s Letter to a Friend 

   Nagarjuna, an important Buddhist philosopher, mentions the eight worldly dharmas (gain, loss, praise, blame, pleasure, pain, fame, disgraced) urging practitioners not to allow these concerns to occupy the mind but to regard them with equanimity.

4. Tibetan Buddhist Canon

   The Eight Worldly Dharmas are widely discussed in Tibetan Buddhist teachings and texts such as the Kangyur and Tengyur collections, with emphasis on how these concerns bind beings to samsara and differentiate them from bodhisattva ideals.

These texts collectively form the main sources for the Buddhist teaching on the eight worldly dharmas, each emphasizing the need to overcome attachment to these pairs of worldly hopes and fears to progress spiritually.

If more details on any of these texts or excerpts are needed, they can be provided.

अमरकंटक एक परिचय

अमरकंटक भारत के मध्य प्रदेश राज्य के अनूपपुर जिले में स्थित एक प्रसिद्ध तीर्थ स्थल और प्राकृतिक क्षेत्र है। यह स्थल विंध्य और सतपुड़ा पर्वतमालाओं के मिलन स्थल पर स्थित है, जहाँ से नर्मदा नदी, सोन नदी और जोहिला नदी का उद्गम होता है। अमरकंटक को हिंदू धर्म में अत्यंत पवित्र माना जाता है और यह धार्मिक, पौराणिक और प्राकृतिक दोनों ही दृष्टिकोण से महत्वपूर्ण है।  

धार्मिक एवं पौराणिक महत्व

पौराणिक मान्यताओं के अनुसार, यहाँ माता सती के दो अंग गिरे थे, इसलिए यह क्षेत्र दो शक्तिपीठों का केंद्र है। नर्मदा नदी का उद्गम स्थल यहाँ होने के कारण इसे नर्मदा शक्ति पीठ भी कहा जाता है। स्थान का संबंध भगवान शिव की पुत्री नर्मदा से भी है, जिनकी नदी यहाँ से बहती है। अमरकंटक में अनेक मंदिर और पुरातात्त्विक स्थल हैं, जिनमें नर्मदा मंदिर प्रमुख है, जो नदी के स्रोत के पास स्थित है। इसके साथ ही, यहाँ भगवान शिव और पार्वती से संबंधित कई स्थल भी पर्यटकों और श्रद्धालुओं को आकर्षित करते हैं।  

प्राकृतिक विशेषताएँ

अमरकंटक समुद्र तल से लगभग 1065 मीटर की ऊंचाई पर है और यहाँ का वातावरण शांत, प्रदूषण मुक्त और प्राकृतिक सौंदर्य से भरपूर है। यहाँ के झरने, तालाब, ऊँची पहाड़ियाँ और आयुर्वेदिक पौधें खास रूप से प्रसिद्ध हैं। यह क्षेत्र एक विश्व धरोहर क्षेत्र भी माना जाता है। यहाँ नर्मदा और सोन नदी की उत्पत्ति होने के कारण, इस स्थान को नदी पूजा और धार्मिक गतिविधियों के लिए भी जाना जाता है।  

पर्यटक स्थल

अमरकंटक में अनेक दर्शनीय स्थल हैं, जिनमें प्रमुख हैं:

- नर्मदा मंदिर और नर्मदा कुंड

- माई का बागिया

- कपिलधारा व दुधधारा झरने

- भृगमंडल, कबीर चबुतरा और ज्वेलेश्वर महादेव मंदिर

- सफारी और प्रकृति देखने के ट्रेकिंग मार्ग

यह स्थान पर्यटकों और श्रद्धालुओं दोनों के लिए आकर्षण का केंद्र है, जो धार्मिक आस्था के साथ-साथ प्राकृतिक सौंदर्य का अनुभव भी प्रदान करता है।

अमरकंटक के प्रमुख धार्मिक स्थल कौन-कौन से हैं

अमरकंटक के प्रमुख धार्मिक स्थल निम्नलिखित हैं:

नर्मदा कुंड और नर्मदा मंदिर: नर्मदा नदी के स्रोत पर स्थित प्रमुख मंदिर, जहां नदी का उद्गम होता है। यहां लगभग 20 छोटे मंदिर भी हैं, जिनमें सती मंदिर और पार्वती को समर्पित मंदिर शामिल हैं। यह अमरकंटक का सबसे महत्वपूर्ण धार्मिक स्थान है।

कलचुरी काल के प्राचीन मंदिर: 11वीं शताब्दी के मंदिर, जो नर्मदा मंदिर के करीब स्थित हैं और ऐतिहासिक महत्व रखते हैं।

ज्वालेश्वर(जालेश्वर) महादेव मंदिर: जोहिला नदी के उद्गम के पास गहरा जंगल में स्थित शिव का मंदिर।

कबीर चबूतरा: संत कबीर ने ध्यान किया था, यह एक ऐतिहासिक और धार्मिक स्थल है।

भृगमंडल: ऋषि भृगु का ध्यान स्थल, जो जंगल के बीच स्थित है।

माई का बागिया: ऐसा स्थान जहां माना जाता है कि नर्मदा देवी ने बचपन बिताया था, जो एक धार्मिक और प्राकृतिक स्थल दोनों है।

सर्वोदयी जैन मंदिर: निर्माणाधीन विशाल जैन मंदिर, जो सीमेंट और लोहे का प्रयोग न करके बनाया जा रहा है।

कपिलधारा और दूधधारा झरने: धार्मिक एवं प्राकृतिक स्थल, जहां ऋषि कपिल ने तपस्या की थी और नर्मदा नदी के सुंदर झरने स्थित हैं।

शंभुधारा और दुर्गधारा झरने: गहरे जंगलों में स्थित सुंदर झरने।

ये स्थल अमरकंटक के धार्मिक और प्राकृतिक महत्व को दर्शाते हैं और यहां श्रद्धालु एवं पर्यटक दोनों बड़ी संख्या में आते हैं। ये मंदिर और स्थल अमरकंटक को एक महत्वपूर्ण तीर्थ स्थल एवं पर्यटन स्थल बनाते हैं।

अमरकंटक जाने का सबसे अच्छा मौसम और यात्रा टिप्स

अमरकंटक जाने का सबसे अच्छा मौसम शरद ऋतु और सर्दियों का होता है, जो अक्टूबर से फरवरी तक रहता है। इस दौरान मौसम सुहाना, ठंडा लेकिन बहुत ज्यादा ठंडा नहीं होता, जिससे तीर्थयात्रा और प्रकृति की सैर आरामदायक होती है। अक्टूबर और नवंबर के महीने खासतौर पर हरे-भरे और प्राकृतिक सौंदर्य का आनंद लेने के लिए उपयुक्त होते हैं, लेकिन इस समय थोड़ी भीड़ हो सकती है। मानसून के मौसम (जून से सितंबर) में यहाँ अधिक वर्षा होती है और रास्ते फिसलन भरे हो सकते हैं, इसलिए बारिश के मौसम में जाना कम उपयुक्त होता है।

यात्रा टिप्स:

- आरामदायक और हल्के गर्म कपड़े पहनें, साथ में हल्की जैकेट या स्वेटर भी रखें क्योंकि रात को ठंड बढ़ सकती है।

- पैदल या लंबी यात्राओं के लिए आरामदायक जूते पहनें।

- स्थानीय रीति-रिवाजों और परंपराओं का सम्मान करें।

- नकदी अपने साथ पर्याप्त रखें क्योंकि एटीएम सीमित हो सकते हैं।

- नर्मदा कुंड सहित प्रमुख मंदिरों और प्राकृतिक झरनों का दौरा करें।

- मानसून में भारी बारिश से बचने के लिए बारिश का इंतजाम करें।

- सुबह जल्दी निकलें ताकि दिन में ज्यादा दर्शनीय स्थल देख सकें।

- यात्रा के दौरान जलयात्रा के लिए पानी और सनस्क्रीन जरूर साथ रखें।

इस प्रकार, अक्टूबर से फरवरी के बीच अमरकंटक यात्रा करना सबसे बेहतर और सुविधाजनक रहता है, साथ ही उपयुक्त तैयारी के साथ यात्रा का आनंद उठाया जा सकता है।