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Harnessing Science for a Brighter Tomorrow: National Science Day-2025

National Science Day is observed annually on February 28th in India to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman in 1928, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930. The day serves as a tribute to Indian scientists and their contributions to global scientific advancements.

The celebration of National Science Day aims to promote scientific awareness among students and the general public. Various schools, colleges, and institutions organize seminars, exhibitions, debates, and workshops to encourage curiosity and innovation in science and technology.

Each year, the Government of India announces a theme for the day, focusing on contemporary scientific issues. So far, themes covered topics such as science for sustainable development, innovations for a better tomorrow, and advancements in space research. These themes highlight the role of science in addressing societal challenges and shaping the future.

The theme for National Science Day 2025 is “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat.” This theme highlights the importance of nurturing young minds to lead India towards scientific excellence and global innovation. It aligns with the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047,” aiming for a self-reliant and technologically advanced nation.

On this day, educational institutions, research organizations, and government bodies organize seminars, exhibitions, debates, and interactive sessions to inspire students and budding scientists. The celebrations focus on encouraging scientific temper, creativity, and problem-solving skills among young individuals.

National Science Day also provides a platform to recognize and reward young researchers and innovators who contribute to scientific advancements. By fostering a culture of research and discovery, it ensures that India remains at the forefront of global scientific progress.

In the journey towards a Viksit Bharat, empowering the youth with scientific temper and innovation-driven thinking is essential. Recognizing this, BioVision Charitable Trust has initiated various activities to nurture curiosity, creativity, and leadership among young minds. Keeping this vision in focus, the trust has organized a Nature Trail at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, providing students with hands-on learning experiences in biodiversity and ecological conservation. To encourage digital creativity and knowledge sharing, it launched the “Teach & Learn in Motion” Reel Competition, promoting dynamic and engaging ways of scientific communication. Furthermore, the trust has contributed to Fauna Fusion 2025 – Explore, Learn & Compete, an initiative designed to inspire young minds to delve deeper into wildlife, conservation, and interdisciplinary scientific exploration. Through these efforts, BioVision Charitable Trust continues to foster innovation, environmental consciousness, and global leadership qualities in the Indian youth, ensuring they play a pivotal role in shaping a progressive and scientifically advanced nation.

BioVision Charitable Trust – “Inspiring Young Minds, Innovating for Viksit Bharat!”

Author:

Dr. Smita Swami

Assistant Professor

Grant Government Medical College &

J.J. Group of Hospitals, Mumbai

February 28, 2025
The Accidental Birder: A Journey from Ignorance to Slightly Less Ignorance

Growing up in a village surrounded by lush greenery, chirping birds, and a never-ending orchestra of nature’s sounds, you’d think I’d have developed a keen interest in wildlife. But no. For me, birds were just background decorations—like moving leaves that occasionally stole my food. A crow was a crow, a pigeon was a pigeon, and that weird long-legged fellow near the pond? Probably a stork or something. Who cared? Certainly not me.
Then came Dr. Arun Gaikwad Sir, the man who could identify a bird faster than I could identify my own relatives at family gatherings. He didn’t just name birds when they were sitting pretty on branches—he named them mid-flight, mid-song, mid-sneeze, and probably even in their dreams. It was like some supernatural ability, and it left me bewildered.
One day, after watching me struggle to identify the very same sparrow I had seen every day for years, Sir took pity on my cluelessness and handed me a book: Collins Field Guide: Birds of India by Norman Arlott.
Now, let me tell you, this book is a game-changer. It’s compact, user-friendly, and packed with beautifully detailed illustrations that make even the most ordinary birds look like celebrities. It groups birds logically, making comparisons easy—though, let’s be honest, I still had moments where every bird looked suspiciously similar to the last one. The range maps are particularly useful; they helped me realize that some of the birds I had been confidently “identifying” did not, in fact, even exist in my region. Oops.
Dr. Gaikwad encouraged me to observe bird behavior, noting how they fly, land, eat, and interact with each other. Slowly, my perspective changed. What once seemed ordinary became extraordinary. The birdcalls that blended into the background started standing out, and suddenly, I found myself wondering about their tiny avian dramas—who was fighting whom, which bird was the neighborhood gossip, and who was just there for the snacks.
If you’re even remotely interested in birds, I highly recommend getting this book. It’s a fantastic guide for beginners. Not that I can boast about my own progress—let’s just say I started as a beginner and, thanks to my busy schedule or as Mumbai dweller, remained a beginner. But that was my fault, not the book’s. It gave me everything; I just happened to be a slow learner.
So, if you ever find yourself looking up at the sky and wondering what feathered wonder just flew past, grab a copy of Collins Field Guide. It might just turn you from a casual bird-noticer into a full-fledged bird nerd. And trust me, that’s a good thing.
Author
Dr. Sanjay Swami
Professor
Department of Biochemistry
T.N. medical College & BYL Nair Ch. Hospital, Mumbai

February 8, 2025
DISSECTING THE GENETICS BEHIND THE AGING PROCESS

Introduction
Aging is a natural process that affects every living organism. As we grow older, our bodies experience a decline in physiological functions, making us more susceptible to diseases and mortality. However, there are individuals who seem to defy the odds and live past the age of 100, exhibiting a delayed or escaped age-related decline. The study of these exceptional individuals, known as centenarians, has provided valuable insights into the genetic factors that influence the aging process.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of genetics and aging. We will delve into the genetic factors associated with longevity, the impact of DNA damage and telomeres on cell aging, and the role of specific genes in the aging process. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of longitudinal studies in understanding age-related decline within and among tissues. Finally, we will explore the emerging field of genomic convergence and how it is revolutionizing our understanding of human aging.
Genetic Factors in Longevity
One of the most intriguing aspects of human aging is the wide variation in lifespan among individuals. While environmental factors play a role in determining lifespan, genetic factors also contribute significantly. Studies comparing centenarians to average-aged individuals have identified several genetic factors associated with long life.
One well-known genetic factor is the APOE gene, which encodes the apolipoprotein E protein. Variants of this gene, such as the ɛ4 allele, have been associated with increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular disease. Interestingly, individuals with the ɛ4 allele are less likely to live past the age of 100.
Another gene associated with longevity is FOXO3A, a transcription factor involved in the insulin/IGF-I signaling pathway.
Variants of this gene have been found to be enriched in centenarians of Asian and European populations. These variants may promote better health and contribute to extended lifespan by increasing the expression or activity of FOXO3A.
While these genetic factors have been replicated in multiple populations, they account for only a small percentage of the genetic contribution to longevity. It is clear that aging is a highly polygenic trait, influenced by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.
The Role of DNA Damage and Telomeres in Aging
Cellular aging is characterized by the gradual accumulation of DNA damage and the shortening of telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. DNA damage can result from exposure to harmful environmental factors or deficiencies in DNA repair mechanisms. Progeroid syndromes, such as Werner syndrome and Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, are caused by mutations in genes involved in DNA repair and are characterized by accelerated aging symptoms.
Telomeres play a crucial role in maintaining chromosome stability and preventing chromosome instability. With each cell division, telomeres shorten, eventually leading to cell senescence, apoptosis, and an increased risk of mutation. Telomere shortening is associated with age-related diseases and accelerated aging syndromes. Conversely, telomerase, an enzyme that adds DNA sequence repeats to telomeres, can delay cell senescence and extend lifespan.
The relationship between DNA damage, telomere length, and aging is complex and not fully understood. However, it is clear that these factors contribute to the aging process and may serve as potential therapeutic targets for age-related diseases.
Longitudinal Studies of Human Aging
To gain a deeper understanding of the aging process, researchers have turned to longitudinal studies, which follow individuals over an extended period, collecting data on various age-related traits. These studies allow for the examination of age-related changes within and among tissues, providing valuable insights into the molecular basis of aging.
The Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA) is one of the longest-running studies of human aging in the United States. Participants undergo comprehensive medical, physiological, and psychological assessments at regular intervals. The data collected from these individuals have been instrumental in identifying biomarkers of physiological age and uncovering genetic pathways involved in aging.
Another longitudinal study, the InCHIANTI study, focuses on the decline in mobility that occurs with age. This study includes residents of two small towns in Tuscany, Italy, and has collected data on a wide range of physiological measurements, including clinical histories, serum metabolite levels, and muscle strength levels.
By analyzing longitudinal data, researchers can identify genetic variants that predict how an individual will change over time. These variants may provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the aging process and can help identify potential targets for intervention.
Genomic Convergence: Combining Functional Genomic Information
Genomic convergence is an innovative approach that combines multiple types of functional genomic information, such as transcriptional profiling, gene association studies, and expression quantitative trait mapping. By integrating these diverse datasets, researchers can identify genes and pathways that are consistently associated with a specific phenotype.
One example of genomic convergence in the study of aging is the identification of the MMP20 gene in human kidney aging. Using gene expression data from kidney samples collected over a wide age range, researchers identified age-regulated genes and pathways associated with kidney aging.
The MMP20 gene, which encodes a matrix metalloproteinase involved in tissue remodeling, emerged as a potential candidate gene involved in the aging process.
Genomic convergence holds great promise for uncovering the complex genetic networks underlying aging and age-related diseases. By integrating multiple types of functional genomic data, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving the aging process.
Conclusion
Understanding the genetic factors that influence the aging process is a complex and evolving field of research. While certain genes, such as APOE and FOXO3A, have been consistently associated with longevity, they only account for a small fraction of the genetic contribution to aging. Longitudinal studies and genomic convergence approaches have provided valuable insights into the molecular basis of aging, identifying age-regulated genes, pathways, and potential therapeutic targets.
As our understanding of the genetics of aging continues to grow, we move closer to unlocking the secrets of longevity and improving the quality of life for individuals as they age. Understanding the genetics behind aging opens up new avenues for the development of anti-aging strategies and interventions. By targeting specific genetic pathways involved in the aging process, it may be possible to slow down or even reverse the effects of aging, leading to a healthier and longer life. The future holds exciting possibilities for unraveling the secrets of longevity and harnessing the power of genetics to enhance our quality of life as we age.
About Author
Anam Khan
Student of FY B. Sc.
Thakur College of Science & Commerce, Kandivali (E), Mumbai
Email- an24.02am@gmail.com

May 16, 2024
CONSANGUINITY

ANALYZING THE INFLUENCE OF CONSANGUINITY ON REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH OUTCOMES
Anam Khan
an24.02am@gmail.com
Introduction
Consanguinity, a term derived from the Latin words con meaning common and sanguineus meaning blood, refers to a relationship between individuals who share a common ancestor or blood. The rates of consanguineous marriages vary depending on factors such as religion, culture, and geography. In this article, we will explore the effects of consanguinity on genetic health. We will also delve into the impact of consanguinity on reproductive health. Additionally, we will examine the prevalence of its association with various reproductive health parameters, including postnatal mortality, congenital malformations, fertility, and the prevalence of autosomal recessive genetic disorders. Through an in-depth exploration of the available research, we aim to shed light on the complex relationship between consanguinity and reproductive health outcomes.
Negative Effects of Consanguinity on Reproductive Health
Consanguinity and Congenital Malformations
One of the well-documented negative effects of consanguinity on reproductive health is the increased risk of congenital malformations in offspring. Studies have consistently shown a higher prevalence of congenital malformations among children born to consanguineous parents compared to those born to non-consanguineous parents. This increased risk is primarily attributed to the expression of autosomal recessive genetic disorders.
Research conducted among Arab populations has also indicated a higher risk of congenital malformations associated with consanguinity. For example, studies in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and other Arab countries have reported a higher frequency of consanguineous marriages among parents of children with congenital heart defects, neural tube defects, cleft lip and/or palate, and other malformations. These findings highlight the significant
impact of consanguinity on the prevalence of congenital malformations.
Consanguinity and Postnatal Mortality
Consanguinity has been associated with an increased risk of postnatal mortality among offspring. Studies conducted during recent times have consistently shown higher postnatal mortality rates among children born to consanguineous parents compared to those born to non-consanguineous parents. The increased risk of postnatal mortality is believed to be related to the inheritance of ‘deleterious recessive genes’ and ‘multi-gene complexes’ from a common ancestor.
While the impact of consanguinity on postnatal mortality is evident, it is important to note that the effects may vary depending on the consanguinity rates within a population. Countries with high rates of consanguineous marriages generally report smaller effects on mortality compared to populations with low rates of consanguineous marriages. Factors such as socioeconomic status, maternal education, birth intervals, and public health facilities also play a role in determining the overall impact of consanguinity on postnatal mortality.
Consanguinity and Autosomal Recessive Disorders
Consanguinity significantly increases the risk of autosomal recessive genetic disorders in offspring. The practice of marrying close relatives leads to an increased probability of mating between individuals who are carriers of the same recessive mutant allele. This increased risk is particularly relevant for rare autosomal recessive disease genes, as there is a higher chance that both parents in a consanguineous marriage are carriers of the same mutation.
In Arab populations, the prevalence of autosomal recessive disorders is relatively higher compared to dominant disorders. This can be attributed to the high rates of consanguinity in these populations. The extended family structure, commonly observed in Arab societies, further contributes to the unique distribution patterns of genetic disorders within families and tribal groups. The concentration of mutation carriers within extended families increases the likelihood of offspring inheriting autosomal recessive disorders.
The Catalogue for Transmission Genetics in Arabs (CTGA) database, which focuses on genetic disorders in Arab populations, provides evidence of the abundance of recessive disorders in the region. The database highlights the direct correlation between the practice of consanguinity and the prevalence of autosomal recessive genetic disorders among Arabs. This underscores the need for further research and standardized guidelines to address the impact of consanguinity on the occurrence and management of these disorders.
Neutral or Positive Effects of Consanguinity on Reproductive Health
While the negative effects of consanguinity on reproductive health are well-documented, it is important to acknowledge that there are also studies suggesting neutral or even positive effects of consanguinity in certain contexts.
Fetal Wastage and Fertility
Studies conducted among highly consanguineous populations have indicated that consanguinity has no significant association with fetal wastage. The rates of prenatal losses, including spontaneous abortions, are comparable between consanguineous and non-consanguineous couples in these populations. Similarly, consanguinity has not been consistently associated with a negative impact on fertility. Some studies have even reported higher fertility rates among consanguineous couples, particularly in certain ethnic groups.
The increase in fertility among consanguineous couples may be attributed to biological compensatory mechanisms or factors such as earlier age at marriage, earlier first maternity, and a longer reproductive span. However, it is important to note that these findings are not universal, and more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between consanguinity, fetal wastage, and fertility in different populations.
Consanguinity and Birth Anthropometric Measurements
The impact of consanguinity on birth anthropometric measurements, such as birth weight, remains inconclusive. Some studies have reported a significant reduction in birth weight among offspring of consanguineous parents, while others have not observed such associations. The complex interplay of socio-cultural, socioeconomic, and nutritional factors within populations with high consanguinity rates makes it challenging to establish a definitive correlation between consanguinity and birth anthropometric measurements.
Conclusion
Consanguinity has a profound impact on reproductive health. The association between consanguinity and negative reproductive health outcomes, such as congenital malformations, postnatal mortality, and autosomal recessive genetic disorders, is well-established. The high rates of consanguineous marriages in some populations contribute to the increased prevalence of these conditions.
While the negative effects of consanguinity are significant, it is important to acknowledge that there are also neutral or even positive effects in certain contexts. Factors such as fetal wastage and fertility may not be significantly influenced by consanguinity, and the impact on birth anthropometric measurements remains inconclusive.
Standardized guidelines and evidence-based counseling for consanguinity can help individuals make informed decisions about their reproductive choices. By understanding the implications of consanguinity on reproductive health, we can strive to promote healthier outcomes for future generations.
About Author

Anam Khan
Student of FY B. Sc.
Thakur College of Science & Commerce, Kandivali (E), Mumbai
Email- an24.02am@gmail.com

May 8, 2024
‘The Pencil of Change’

Over the past few years, our team at BioVision Charitable Trust, led by our awesome Professor turned President, has been on a mission: lending a hand to students who need it most. We’ve provided them with study materials like bags, notebooks, and all the tools they need, but you know what? A simple pencil symbolizes it all perfectly. It’s a writing tool that holds the power to work wonders, yet it’s affordable for everyone. Spending time with these young minds always brings back memories of their incredible innocence and boundless dreams.

Thinking back to when I was a kid, getting a half-used pencil was like hitting the jackpot! Back then, having even one pen was super important, and having a spare was like winning the lottery. I remember scavenging blank pages from old notebooks to make new ones because, purchasing new was out of reach, well, we had to get creative when it came to school supplies!

Looking back on those days, I’m proud of who I am now. Instead of dwelling on the tough times, I’m grateful for the strength those times gave me. Life in urban areas might offer a bit more comfort, but in remote areas, it’s like facing a trial by fire. Yet, witnessing the sheer determination of these young students, I have no doubt they’ll achieve remarkable feats and fill us all with pride.

They just need a little push in the right direction. It might not be just up to me or you to guide them, but if we all pitch in, we can make a real difference. Kind of like how sharing your food with someone else feels way better than just eating it all yourself.

Remembering the wise words of Mahatma Gandhi about non-violence and Netaji’s fiery call for freedom, it’s clear we’ve come a long way. But now, it’s time for a new kind of revolution—one where we all think about the well-being of not just people, but everything on this crazy planet.

So, let’s arm everyone with the simplest of tools—a pencil—and watch as greatness unfolds. Who knows? Maybe from that little graphite stick, we’ll see the rise of heroes and the start of something truly amazing.

Dr. Sanjay Swami

(The author is an Associate Professor at T.N. Medical College and B.Y.L. Nair Ch. Hospital in Mumbai. Serves as Secretary to BioVision Charitable Trust, he’s deeply involved in various initiatives beyond academia, showcasing his commitment to making a difference in society.)

March 12, 2024
Assessing the Current State of CO2 Emissions in India: A Comprehensive Overview
The term “carbon footprint” is an intriguing concept associated with greenhouse gases. A carbon footprint is a measure of the amount of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide, that are emitted by the activities of a person, organization, product, or country. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to global warming and climate change. Therefore, reducing the carbon footprint is important for mitigating the negative impacts of climate change on humans and the environment.

These direct and indirect emissions are categorized into three broad scopes:
Scope 1: All direct Greenhouse gas emissions.
Scope 2: Indirect Green House Gas emissions from purchased electricity, heat or steam consumption.
Scope 3: Other indirect emissions, such as the extraction and production of purchased materials and fuels, transport-related activities in vehicles not owned or controlled by the reporting entity, electricity-related activities (e.g. T&D losses) not covered in Scope 2, outsourced activities, waste disposal, etc

The increase in worldwide emissions from the middle of the 18th century to the present is seen in this graph. It is evident that emissions were extremely low before the Industrial Revolution. Emissions growth remained very moderate until the middle of the 20th century. The globe released six billion tons of CO2 in 1950. This nearly doubled to more than 22 billion tons by 1990. Our annual emissions have risen steadily over the past few years, reaching over 34 billion tons. Although the rate of increase in emissions has decreased recently, it has not yet reached its maximum

Excluded are: short-cycle biomass burning (such as agricultural waste burning), large-scale biomass burning (such as forest fires), and carbon emissions/removals of land-use, land-use change and forestry. CO2 Emissions by Sector CO2 emissions from burning fossil fuel for the following uses:

Global Fossil CO2 Emissions by Sector :

Power Industry: 38.5 %

Non-combustion: 10.0 %

Other industrial combustion: 21.2 %

Transport: 20.9 %

Buildings: 9.4 %

Our Study:
- The study is based on primary sources from Google survey form and offline survey secondary sources collected from the Census of Inda, the United Nations (UN) population estimate, NITI Aayog, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the World Bank, and Reserve Bank of India (RBI), etc. The available data in various parameters like human population, urbanization, carbon storage/emission, and socio-economic indicators like gross state domestic product (GSDP), poverty index, human development, etc. have been compiled state-wise and presented for statistical inferences. In our survey, there are 52.2% of men and 46.4% are female.
- In the survey, the average age of individuals is 22 years. our carbon footprint is equal to 8.6 tonnes for better understanding we consider the UK(United Kingdom) for comparison. and the average phone usage is 5 hours a day. Carbon footprint for 5 hours a day≈43kg CO2e per year, Please note that this is a rough estimate, and actual carbon footprints can vary based on factors specific to your phone and usage.
- In January 2022, global per capita carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions vary significantly from country to country. The worldwide average per capita CO2 emissions were around 4.8 metric tons per person per year. However, these numbers can change over time as countries adopt different energy sources and implement climate policies. If India’s per capita CO2 emissions are 8.6 tonnes per year, this would be higher than the global average. It suggests that, on average, each person in India is responsible for emitting more CO2 than the global per capita average.
- It’s important to consider that these figures are subject to change, and updated data should be consulted for the most accurate comparisons. Additionally, different sources may provide slightly different figures based on their methodologies and data sources.
- Efforts to reduce per capita emissions often involve transitioning to cleaner energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing policies that promote sustainable practices. It’s worth noting that per capita emissions are often used as a metric to assess a country’s contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions and its progress toward mitigating climate change.
HOW TO REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT?

Carbon footprint can be reduced and handprint can be increased by changing our lifestyle and following some simple tips mentioned below:
- Reducing waste
- Saving electricity
- Recycling /saving water
- Saving fuel and reducing emissions
- saving paper
About the Author:

Aayan Abdul Mannan Shaikh.

FYBSC IT- Student of Thakur College of Science and Commerce, Mumbai

Phone:- 9421297970

Email:- Aayan.tcsc@gmail.com
February 8, 2024
Yoga: an alternative medicine

Yog is derived from Sanskrit term ‘Yuj’ which means to join. In general terms it is the basic way to connect to healthy life style. Yog normally termed as Yoga is a scientific art of ancient origin that focuses on mind and body awareness. It leads to union -integration of ones self at all level.

It is evident from scientific research studies that regular yoga practice show a great benefit in treating depression and improving mental health which is a bigger concern now a days, It has a very good and positive impact on non-communicable disease, a biggest health problem ever.

An awareness on occasion of International Yoga Day it will be an achievement for each of individual to step ahead on path of Healthy Life. Yog now a days is evolved with modification with regular modification with experiment. Lot of research work is been carried on philosophical base, its applicability or result is seen by scientific research and applied in various Yoga courses for the benefit of mankind.

To conclude I remember a famous quote-

“Yoga has a complete message for humanity. It has a message for the human body, mind, and spirit.”

– Swami Kuvalayananda, Founder, Kaivalyadhama

Dr. Gururaj R. D.

Kaivalyadham

(Author is a counselor, teacher, and healer. He has written popular and scientific articles on the impact of Ayurveda and Yoga as alternative medicine)

June 20, 2022
Biodiversity: Time to act

Biodiversity is essential for the processes that support all life on Earth, including humans. All species are interconnected. They depend on one another. Forests provide homes for animals. Animals eat plants. The plants need healthy soil to grow. Fungi help decompose organisms to fertilize the soil. Bees and other insects carry pollen from one plant to another, which enables the plants to reproduce. Nothing is useless in nature .every factor is playing an important role.

Biodiversity is important to people in many ways. Plants, for instance, help humans by giving off oxygen. They also provide food, shade, construction material, medicines, and fiber for clothing and paper. The root system of plants helps prevent flooding. Plants, fungi, and animals such as worms keep soil fertile and water clean. As biodiversity decreases, these systems break down.

Promoting biodiversity at schools provides students with educational hands-on opportunities to make positive environmental impacts. Hanging birdhouses, planting wildflower gardens, and expanding recycling programs can each benefit your school’s local ecosystem.

Students can create awareness about biodiversity in their neighbourhood, societies, and their relatives. Before the rainy season, students can prepare seed balls with the help of their friends and can through them on barren land.

Kitchen waste can be recycled in the basket and we can obtain vermicompost which can be used in the terrace garden.

Liquid nutrients can be provided to the plants by putting banana peels, potato peels, onion peels, and discarded parts of vegetables in water overnight. Strained water can be given to potted plants. Aloe vera leaves can be cut into pieces and similarly kept overnight in water and strained water can be given to the plants. It will work as a good growth hormone.

It will be very delightful to observe how plants flourish.

Through these small activities, you can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity.

Biodiversity is love. Biodiversity is life.

Be responsible for a better world, Work to sustain biodiversity.

Dr. Afsana Tamboli

(The author is an Assistant Professor working at Abeda Inamdar College, Pune.)

June 16, 2022
Yoga: The practice of living

Yoga is a wonderful practice of training the body and the mind, it offers peace and mindfulness to its practitioners and benefits them get through daily stress

Origin of Yoga

Lord Shiva is considered to be the originator of Yoga, among his many names, he is also called Adiyogi (the first yogi). It is said that Yoga was brought to the people by Saptarishis. The story goes this way – Shiva was sitting in blissful meditation for years. Many people flocked to him out of curiosity but left as he never paid attention to anyone. But out of them, all seven people stayed, they were so determined to learn from Shiva, that they sat still for almost 84 years. After this on the day of the summer solstice, when the sun was shifting from the northern to the southern run, Shiva took notice of these 7 beings and could no longer ignore them. 28 days later, the next full moon Shiva turned into their Adiguru (First Guru) and transmitted the science of Yoga to the Saptarishis.

Yoga is a trend that has been flourishing from ancient years, rather now it has become a trendsetter in maintaining both mental and physical well-being. Each yogic activity is a key to improving flexibility, strength, balance and attaining harmony.

Significance of yoga

Medically it is proven that yogic activities help human well-being in many ways e.g. lowers anxiety, reduce stress, improve sleep, cure respiratory disorders, regulate high blood pressure, maintain blood sugar, aid digestive issues, and many more. Ultimately it is said to promote mindfulness, increase self-compassion, elevate mood and all of this comprises good health.

International Yoga Day

On Dec 11, 2014, the United Nations proclaimed June 21 as International Yoga Day. Authorities said they chose this date because it is the longest day of the year (summer solstice) and is considered significant in many parts of the world.

So, let’s take an oath from the 21^st of June to involve Yoga as a part of our routine life to improve our overall wellness.

“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self”

Y = Your

O = Objective

G = Guidelines

A = Assessment

Dr. Smita Swami

(Author is an Assistant Professor at Topiwala National Medical College & BYL Nair Ch. Hospital, Mumbai)

June 15, 2022
Humans and Biodiversity

Humans are part of Nature just like all other species but according to Humans (Homo sapiens), we are the most intelligent and brilliant species on this planet (even though we are not the only one). Hence according to us, we can show dominance over all the species all the time. Charles Darwin said that evolution works on the theory of survival of the fittest, It’s not the strong one or intelligent one that can survive but the ones who are responsive to change is able to survive. The fact is if you see history of geological Time scale from Paleozoic era to Cenozoic era and from Cambrian period to Quaternary period.

Each era or period shows the dominancy of different species if we consider the Mesozoic era it is called as Age of reptiles as the diversification and dominancy of reptiles took place in that period, the Jurassic is one of the well-known periods belonging to this era. The Cenozoic era is known as the Age of Mammals again in this era humans/mammals show dominancy in the quaternary period. As we are dominant in this period it doesn’t mean we always be there on the top. Just like Amphibians and reptiles, mammals may lose their place after a certain period of time. Right now we are facing Corona-like viruses which can easily destroy thousands of individuals in a very short period. In the future might be these
microorganisms like viruses and bacteria came over and show dominancy over all other animal groups including human beings. In the end, we need to realize that each and every species that is Biodiversity of this planet earth has its own role in nature and we have to respect them. As a human, if we are unable to protect them or conserve them at least we should not harm them for our benefit. We are continuously doing many things which are harmful to nature such as pollution and deforestation, According to us it is development but keeps one thing in mind NATURE ALWAYS WINS.

Ms. AMRUTA DAULAT PHARANDE
(The author is an Assistant Professor at Sathaye College, Vile-Parle (E), Mumbai)

June 13, 2022