Imagine going outside and feeling like you’ve walked into a microwave. Scary, right? That’s not some wild sci-fi plot — it’s our possible future if we don’t take care of our ozone layer. Every year, on 16 September, we observe World Ozone Day to remember this invisible shield so vital to our survival, and how our every act can either protect it or hurt it.

The United Nations declared World Ozone Day to be observed on 16 September in 1987 when the Montreal Protocol, the first agreement to phase out ozone-depleting substances, was signed. This is a renewal of commitments towards safeguarding the ozone for generations to come.

You must be thinking, “What’s the big deal about the ozone layer?” Well, this thin, watery gas high up in the atmosphere protects the Earth from the harmful UV Rays of the sun – like sunscreen. These UV rays can cause skin cancers and cataracts, damage crops and disrupt the marine ecosystem.

Get the digital edition of the September 2024 issue to read the full article.

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International Labour Day, marked every 1st May, is more than a nod to the past; it’s a vivid reminder of the enduring struggles and triumphs of workers worldwide. Known as May Day or Workers’ Day in some regions, it’s a day to celebrate the economic and social milestones achieved by workers.

The story of International Labour Day begins in the late 19th century, an era of swift industrial growth that brought prosperity at a steep price for the working class. Workers grappled with brutal conditions — endless hours, scant wages, and perilous workplaces, with child labour widespread and weekends non-existent. In response, labour unions emerged as the voice of the oppressed, pushing for humane conditions, fair compensation, and the freedom to organize.

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“Love is about understanding each other’s needs, likes and dislikes and about accepting their flaws also, along with their positive outlooks. I believe loyalty is the most important thing in love.”
ROHIT ODIYA (18) / Gujarat

“Love! First, let us be clear that love here does not refer to only romantic love. Friendship is a form of love; romantic love is one, with family, it’s another form. The place where you keep falling back stronger even after arguments and messy conversations is what love is. It’s like the warmth on a winter night. Love is hope in the heart’s most tender moments, a beacon that guides us through the darkest nights.”
NANDINI MUKHERJEE (18) / West Bengal

“Love is companionship. More than holding hands under the moon, it’s more about the little gestures one does to make you smile on a bad day. You know it’s love when you enjoy reading a book silently in their presence, as well as when you talk endlessly about your travel wish list. Love isn’t a missing puzzle piece that completes me. But it makes me feel more complete and more wholesome than ever.”
SUMANA GHOSH (22) / Kolkata

“Love is the most beautiful and precious thing in the universe. Love is like a flower which blossoms in different colours. From familial bonds to friendships, love manifests in sacrifices and joys. Nature reciprocates our care, and love extends to animals, non-living things, and life goals. In essence, love, an indescribable feeling, finds expression in actions and connections that shape our world.”
SANTHOSH KUMAR (22) / Tamil Nadu

“One of my favourite definitions of love is: “Love is putting someone else’s needs before yours.” Love is not only a feeling between a boy and a girl, it can be for anyone for anything, anywhere at any time. “My mother likes me to be successful in life”, that’s love for her son. “I want my friend to be happy and I will make sure of it”, that’s love towards a friend. Love is the only thing that doesn’t need anything to be happy other than love for love’s sake.”
SUBBIAH (21) / Madurai

“Love is not an extravagant display or an expensive gesture; at least, this has never been the definition of love for me. Love for me equals physical, mental and emotional comforts. The kind of comfort that one experiences after coming home from a long tiring day, or the comfort one feels when they converse with their best friend. Love is the ease of existence, the calmness and the feeling of security one gets when they are with the other person.”
SIDHARTH G. (22) / Kerala

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As the calendar page turns, and 2024 dawns, the hopes and the goals of today’s youngsters for the coming year illuminate a road of personal growth, perseverance, and self-discovery. In the spirit of Youth Day on 12 January, this special segment shares young voices from across the country and their hopes and dreams for 2024. From self-improvement journeys to facing the hurdles of new beginnings, these stories provide a vivid picture of youthful optimism and tenacity, revealing the diverse goals that will shape the fabric of the coming year.

“In the upcoming year, my aspirations as a student are oriented towards personal and academic development. Beyond academic development, my main dream is to better myself, for myself, doing things that will benefit me, and no one else. With the New Year approaching fast, I am dedicated to enjoying the remaining few days by prioritizing myself and my close ones. And instead of setting New Year goals, I will go with the flow, taking the pressure off of me. My only aim for the New Year is making most of the days, and enjoying it.”
BAVANA VINOD THALATHOTI (21) / Maharashtra

“Winter is the time when old leaves fall out making room for the new ones; it’s the time when animals hibernate, preparing themselves for a new summer. The New Year falls in this season, bidding farewell to the past and celebrating what’s yet to come with hope and laughter. This year has been a rollercoaster ride for me — new city, new faces, taking a small step towards my big dreams. I faltered at times, my instinctive fear holding me back from putting myself out there in the world. Setting resolutions have never worked out for me, so this year I am going to go with the flow, keeping my eyes wide open for the opportunities coming my way and letting go of the things that are holding me back. This year I will focus on gracefully letting go of the things that are holding me back and working towards my betterment.”
SHARANYA SUNIL NAIR (20) / Gujarat

“My hopes and dreams for 2024 would be to improve and explore new opportunities for myself. Since I’m a student and a freelancer, I would like to improve my camera and directional skills to showcase and improve my content. I would like to improve on my priorities so that I can create an environment where I have a work-life balance to ensure that I don’t feel burnt out and miss out on important experiences and events which could help me personally and professionally. Lastly, my only dream and goal is to give back to my parents and relate with their goals and dreams as they have given me the opportunity to explore and take my dream profession and career.”
NIHAL KONDUR (21) / Kerala

“A New Year is forever; it keeps coming year after year, and so do my new dreams. There have been so many dreams for me to fulfil, and I take resolution and fail to meet them. But this time, I am not the same anymore. My goal for 2024 is not about getting a good job or being productive. It’s about making myself healthy and confident. 2023 has been a hell of a ride. So many changes in my life have happened, wherein I failed to look after my physical and mental health, which has put me down in many ways. This time, I am not going to give up. I am going to prioritise my mental and physical health, and I am not going to compromise on my health anymore. Eating clean food and exercising for at least an hour will be my compulsory activity here on. Hopefully, this year will be a kickstart for my activeness to control and grow my body and health.”
VINISHAA N. D. (21) / Tamil Nadu

Approaching the New Year, I stand at the crossroads of reflection and anticipation. My heart echoes with the whispers of hopes, and dreams unfold like a story waiting to be written. In the tapestry of the coming 365 days, I see a journey of growth and resilience. Resolutions become the guiding compass, pointing me towards the uncharted territories of self-discovery. As the clock ticks down, each second resonates with the promise of a fresh start. With open arms, I welcome the unknown, ready to embrace the challenges and triumphs that will follow. Here’s to a new chapter, a canvas yet untouched, and the adventures that lie ahead.
RITIKA MITRA (20) / Kolkata

Excitement fills my heart as the New Year approaches. Hopes and dreams bloom in the garden of possibilities. Standing at the threshold of 365 days, I see a canvas for resilience, joy, and growth. Embracing the unknown, I envision a personal metamorphosis. Challenges may come, but my spirit remains undaunted. With each tick of the clock, aspirations harmonize with the universe. The forthcoming year is a blank chapter, and I am the author, penning a saga of purpose and new beginnings.
BHAVYA GIRISH (21) / Karnataka

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It’s that time of the year again! A time full of joy, anticipation and excitement for the upcoming festivities and holidays. It’s the Christmas season — a time when the world adorns itself in twinkling lights, festive cheer fills the air, and hearts are aglow with the spirit of giving and celebration. The hustle and bustle creates an ambience of merriment, yet within this joyful chaos lies a more profound significance that goes beyond the glitz and glamour of the season. It’s a time that prompts reflection, a reminder of the core values of love, compassion, and the promise of unity in a world that often feels fragmented and divided.

The Christmas spirit often signifies a beacon of hope and light in a bleak world. Its origins can be traced back to when ancient traditions and stories resounded with hope and generosity. The story of Jesus Christ’s birth is at the heart of the origins of Christmas. The story of Jesus communicates a powerful message of love, empathy, and compassion. It’s about the resonance of harmony and the warmth of solidarity rather than mere presents and jingling bells.

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India is often referred to as the land of ‘unity in diversity’. India’s cultural landscape is a kaleidoscope of traditions, customs, and artistic expressions that have evolved over centuries. With 29 states, each characterized by its own distinct culture, languages and cuisines, India is a living mosaic of identities. This cultural plurality is a source of strength for India, and it is something that should be celebrated.

The nation celebrates National Unity Day on 31 October, not only to reflect upon and celebrate the cultural plurality that forms the very foundation of India’s rich heritage, but also to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as the ‘Iron Man of India’. This day is a tribute to his contributions and efforts as the first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of India during 1947-50, in bringing the different states and regions together and unifying the nation.

In a country as culturally diverse as India, maintaining unity is a challenge that has been met through various means. The shared history of struggle against British rule, which brought together people from different regions and backgrounds in their quest for freedom, is a primary reason for this unity. This historical solidarity laid the groundwork for a shared national identity that transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries. Education and exposure to different cultures play a pivotal role in fostering unity and understanding among India’s diverse population.

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