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Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Hindustan Times
73% non-marine UNESCO sites at severe water risk: WRI report
A new analysis shows 73% of all non-marine UNESCO World Heritage Sites are exposed to at least one severe water risk (water stress, drought, river flooding or coastal flooding), with 21% of sites facing dual problems — having too much water one year, and too little during another. The Taj Mahal faces water scarcity that is increasing pollution and depleting groundwater, the analysis states (PTI) The analysis based on World Resources Institute's Aqueduct data (also a water risk atlas) has flagged that several sites in India are among those experiencing severe risks, including the Taj Mahal, Kaziranga National Park, Western Ghats, Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, and the Great Living Chola Temples among others. Around 40% of the UNESCO sites are facing issues related to water stress and drought risk while 33% and 4% respectively face challenges from riverine flood risk and coastal flood risk. 'Sites at risk include global icons such as the Taj Mahal, Angkor, Yellowstone National Park, Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls, the Sagarmatha National Park (Mt Everest) and many more. With water stress projected to intensify in many regions, the implications for ecosystems, cultural heritage, and local economies are significant - but solutions are within reach,' the analysis said. For example, WRI's mapping shows Sun Temple in Konark; victorian gothic and art deco ensembles in Mumbai; churches and convents of Goa; Western Ghats etc in India are at extremely high risk of riverine flooding. Drought risk is high for Qutub Minar; Keoladeo national park; Rani ki Vaw stepwell in Gujarat; even Chola temples in Mahabalipuram. 'Water is impacting some of the Earth's most cherished places: The Taj Mahal, for example, faces water scarcity that is increasing pollution and depleting groundwater, both of which are damaging the mausoleum. In 2022, a massive flood closed down all of Yellowstone National Park and cost over $20 million in infrastructure repairs to reopen. Water issues — whether it's drought, scarcity, pollution or flooding — have become a threat to many of the more than 1,200 UNESCO World Heritage Sites,' the analysis states. While the global share of World Heritage Sites exposed to high to extremely high levels of water stress is projected to rise from 40% to 44% by 2050, impacts will be far more severe in regions like the Middle East and North Africa, parts of South Asia and northern China — areas where existing water stress is exacerbated by extensive river regulation, damming and upstream water withdrawals. In these regions, the combined pressures of infrastructure development and climate change pose a significant threat to both natural ecosystems and the cultural heritage they sustain, it adds. Places ranging from the biodiversity-rich Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, to cultural treasures like the sacred city of Chichén Itzá in Mexico, to bustling urban centers like Morocco's Medina of Fez are facing growing water risks. For example, the Ahwar of Southern Iraq is facing acute water stress. In 2016, UNESCO added the Ahwar to the World Heritage list as a mixed site — recognized for both its natural values and cultural legacy. It's one of approximately 470 UNESCO World Heritage Sites facing water scarcity due to issues like pollution and competition for its water resources. Fed by Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, the Ahwar is among the largest inland delta systems on Earth. These sprawling marshes are teeming with life that include millions of migratory birds like the rare Basra Reed Warbler and large wild buffalo that wade through its reed beds. Over the years, upstream dam construction, agricultural water use and periods of political instability including significant drainage of the marshes in the 1990s have reduced the freshwater flowing into the region. As a result, the area remains highly vulnerable during times of drought, the analysis said. WRI water experts have recommended that local authorities restore vital landscapes that support healthy, stable water, invest in nature-based solutions like planting trees to restore headwater forests or revitalizing wetlands to capture flood waters and recharge aquifers. These approaches can build resilience to extreme weather and address multiple water challenges simultaneously. Nationally, countries can enact conservation policies to protect vital landscapes from unsustainable development.
India.com
7 days ago
- India.com
From Palaces To Paddy Fields 7 Places That Make Thanjavur a Summer Wonder
Thanjavur is a city that can be referred to as the 'Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu' and has deep historical and cultural roots. Although it is particularly famous for its splendid temples as well as architectural marvels, there are several summer destinations in Thanjavur that cater for different interests. If you are a history lover, nature lover or simply looking for a serene retreat, then you will find something special about Thanjavur during the summer season. Here are some of the best places to visit in Thanjavur during your summer holiday: 1. Brihadeeswarar Temple: The Brihadeeswarar Temple which is also known as Big Temple is one of the most prominent landmarks in Thanjavur and is included on UNESCO's World heritage site list. This architectural wonder constructed by Chola dynasty on 11th century serves Lord Shiva with its towering vimana (temple tower) that stands testimony to the brilliance of ancient Indian craftsmanship. Exploring the intricate carvings, majestic architecture and meditation atmosphere of this temple is a must-have experience for anyone who visits Thanjavur. 2. Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery: Go back in time and explore the royal legacy of this city by visiting the royal palace and art gallery situated in thanjavuor. Built by Nayak Dynasty and later renovated by Marathas, this grand complex encloses an intriguing collection of articles including vintage weaponry, sculptures, paintings and musical instruments among others. Within its premises lies an art gallery showcasing exquisite Tanjore paintings having vibrant colors with elaborate sketching detail filled with religious concepts. 3. Saraswathi Mahal Library: Those interested in literature or studying history should not miss visiting this library called Saraswathi Mahal Library when they come here because it will be worthwhile indeed! Founded sometime during Nayak era in 16th century, it is an age old library that houses a large collection of rare manuscripts, palm-leaf manuscripts and historical documents in many languages including Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu and Marathi. Exploring the wealth of knowledge locked within Saraswathi Mahal's walls will give you a glimpse into Thanjavur's intellectual heritage. 4. Sivaganga Park: In the heart Thanjavur city lies Sivaganga Park; a cool serene oasis away from the scotching rays of the sun. It presents vast green lawns, multicolored flower beds and shaded walkways that are ideal spots for picnicking, leisure walks or even simply relaxing. The families can either enjoy boating at the calm waters of Sivaganga Tank or allow their kids to play around in the playgrounds making it perfect place for an entertaining day out. 5. Thanjavur Art Gallery and Handicrafts Emporium: There exists several local art galleries as well as handicraft emporium sprawled across the city which will help one to get immersed into vibrant art and craft traditions of Thanjavur. These cultural hubs showcase intricately carved bronze sculptures as well as Tanjore paintings besides traditional handloom textiles and pottery among others thus offering a glimpse into rich artistic heritage present in this area. Additionally, tourists can buy souvenirs including exclusive handcrafted items which they can take along to be preserved with fond memories for their visit to Thanjavur. 6. Gangaikonda Cholapuram: You are therefore advised to visit Gangaikonda Cholapuram situated in Thanjavur district, a place that is famous for numerous grand Chola temples and architectural wonders. The Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and decorated with artistic carvings, fancy pillars, and elaborate gopurams which form an epitome of opulent Chola architecture. It is serene for those who can visit this site declared by UNESCO as its World Heritage Site so as to understand how rich South India was culturally during the medieval. 7. Thiruvaiyaru: Thiruvaiyaru is a small town near Thanjavur where you will find the resting place of the great saint and musician Saint Thyagaraja. Music enthusiasts from all over the world come together every year in Thiruvaiyaru, on an occasion known as Thyagaraja Aradhana Festival, to celebrate the life of Saint Thyagaraja through classical music concerts and cultural performances. In summer time it's advantageous that one visits this area since Carnatic music sounds better at that period. To sum up, there are different places within Thanjavur district that will suit anyone's taste – starting from architectural masterpieces and historical sights to calm gardens or cultural centers. Whether you seek religious salvation or just want a fresh breakaway or even you are an artist thirsting for inspiration – come here because visiting Thanjavur feels like coming back home to oneself at any moment without ever changing; be it your final choice! Think about going down south of Tamil Nadu and experience an unforgettable trip around Thanjavur in summer.
Time of India
22-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
How Tamil Nadu remained a global trade hub for many centuries
The economy of Tamil Nadu has shifted decisively to a high growth trajectory with the service sector contributing more than 54 % of the GDP and the manufacturing sector at around 34%. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now This figure when seen in the light of historical evidence is neither surprising nor unexpected. Industrial goods have turned up in archaeological excavations at Keeladi, Adichanallur, Kodumanal, Pattaraiperumbuddur and several other places. The megalithic sites distributed over the dry plains of Tamil Nadu have yielded beads made of carnelian and other semi-precious stones like agate, beryl and amethyst. The social organization necessary for such sophisticated industrial enterprises is reflected in the development of craft guilds and specialized merchant bodies which traded goods produced in Tamil Nadu, like steel, textiles, ceramics and metalware all across the Indian Ocean from the Red Sea to the Straits of Malacca and beyond. The history of trade and mercantile activity from the Coromandel Coast to port towns located in present day Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam forms the mainstay of research both by Indian and Western scholars. Inscriptions of the early medieval period in both Tamil and other languages attest to the presence of merchant bodies like the famous "nanadesi" merchants who traded in the "five hundred directions". This particular guild which is revealed in early inscriptions had a long presence and seems to have operated almost till the end of the twelfth century. Originating in Aihole in Karnataka, this merchant body worked in nagaram or trading centres where they carried out business activities which included sale of commodities which included essentials like rice, salt and cloth. Luxury goods like silk and aromatic products were dealt with by specialized merchants. Inscriptions from Kanchi Managaram from the early Chola period speak of the active role played by traders carrying out trade in luxury products. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Farm products like arecanuts, flowers, ginger, turmeric figure prominently in medieval inscriptions. Forest products like timber, animal skins and elephant tusks are also known to have formed part of the goods involved in trade. We also have finished goods like iron ingots, gold and silver jewelry and textiles being exported from the region. The rise of the Cholas in the Kaveri region around the middle of the ninth century AD gave further fillip to the flourishing trade with South East Asia, particularly the Srivijaya empire. Chinese sources speak of trade missions that reached China from the Pandyan kingdom. The archaeological evidence from the port of Quanzhou suggests that merchants from Tamil Nadu were living in the port and an inscription of AD 1279 points to the presence of a temple at that site. Excavations have led to the discovery of a temple whose fragments are now preserved in the museum. Similarly, an seafaring vessel was recovered from Kadakkarappally, a site in Kerala which can be dated to the medieval period. Artifacts of Tamil origin have been found in South East Asia and these include textiles, religious icons, vessels made of copper and bronze and iron tools and weapons. Historians are unanimous in placing the Tamil region as a preeminent trading and commercial hub of the medieval period. In AD 1025 when Rajendra Chola I (1014-1044) launched a naval expedition against Srivijaya, it appears that mercantile interests were significantly impacted as several towns and cities in Srivijaya were destroyed. The trade in goods was sustained by the organized production of artisans in craft centres which contained weavers, carpenters, jewelers, metal workers and potters all of whom carried out their trade in fixed peasant localities termed as nadus. Merchants and traders belonging to various guilds gathered the goods produced and helped distribute them across the region and through the trans-oceanic routes to China and Southeast Asia. Marco Polo's testimony of the shipping he witnessed when he arrived at Kayalpattinam suggests that even as late as the 13th century, goods produced in the region were finding their way across the Bay of Bengal. More recently, we have seen trading communities from South India emerge as entrepreneurs and bankers in different parts of Southeast Asia particularly Malaysia and Myanmar. Falling back on historical links with regional trading communities, backed by entrepreneurial knowhow and social capital, helped build businesses that could hold their own even against discriminatory practices of colonial rulers. The author earned his PhD in Medieval History from the University of Hawaii and was a lecturer at Pondicherry University for 35 years
India.com
19-06-2025
- India.com
Looking For A Coastal Escape? Check Out These 5 Famous Beaches Near Thanjavur
You know how Thanjavur is all about history temples and culture right But what most people don't talk about is that some really cool beaches are not too far from the city. Like, if you've been stuck in the temple trail and need a little break, just pack your bag and head out for a few hours. You'll find places with soft sand calm waves and even some old stories waiting for you. These aren't the crowded beaches of Goa or Mumbai. These are quiet spots where you can sit back breathe fresh air and maybe even learn something new while enjoying the view. Beach Nagapattinam Beach is about 85 kilometers away from Thanjavur. Popular for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, this beach attracts locals as well as tourists who desire to have some rest time. Swimming can be done here because the water is clear with clean sand on this beach. Also around Nagore Dargah is there which is an ancient man made place that adds people's visitation a bit more historically significant. Beach Kodikkarai Beach or Point Calimere lies approximately 110 kilometers away from Thanjavur. Flora and fauna diversity defines Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary where this beach also forms part of it. On one hand, the beach has amazing wildlife; on the other hand, it has lovely landscapes too. Birds migrate at different times in a year; wild horses among others are seen within this reserve area by visitors coming around here. For those who seek tranquility or tiredness against urban chaos it remains so in contrast with other crowded beaches. Beach The Poompuhar Beach is roughly 120 kilometers away from Thanjavur City Centre (Distance between poompuhar beach & thanjavur). This was one of Kaveripoompattinam ancient Chola port cities before it vanished into Indian Ocean waters over nine centuries ago (Marvelous Poompuhar). The historical significance as well as archaeological remnants marks this coast off (Thamizhagam). The Silappathikaram Art Gallery that displays scenes from the epic of Tamil, Silapathikaram is a must visit for any tourist coming to this place. As for the beach itself, people can spend time there comfortably walking, having a relaxing picnic and enjoying the coastal breeze. Beach Thanjavur is about 105 Kilometers away from Tharangambadi Beach. It is also known as Tranquebar which has a rich Danish colonial history (Facts about Tharangambadi or Tranquebar). Dansborg fort located on the beach was established by the Danish in the 17th century. Visitors are invited to explore the fort grounds, stroll along the beach and view unique combinations of Danish and Tamil architecture. Given its serene atmosphere and historical value, it remains one of most picturesque destinations. Beach This beach is at Karaikal approximately 110 kilometers from Thanjavur, a union territory in Puducherry (Geography of Thanjavur District; About Karaikal; A complete travel guide for your trip to Pondicherry). Here visitors find peace while swimming through clean water with fine sand along this part of India's coast. The beach offers excellent opportunities for swimming, sunbathing or leisurely picnics. While other attractions include Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple nearby and French Quarter where you will experience a mix of two cultures: Indian and European. When compared with others in many parts of the world, it does not attract too many people who just want to relax after working hard all week long. Final Thoughts The closeness of Thanjavur to the East coast of Tamil Nadu provides beach lovers with a wide range of options to explore and enjoy some of the most beautiful and peaceful seaside in this area. Each destination whether it is pilgrimage and serenity Velankanni Beach, historic Poompuhar Beach, wildlife and nature beauty Kodikkarai Beach or colonial charm Tharangambadi beach offers something special. These beaches are an ideal break from the rich cultural background as well as history of Thanjavur where visitors can relax, unwind and get in touch with nature.
Indian Express
09-06-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Daily subject-wise quiz: History and Culture MCQs on Begum of Bhopal, Alexander's Indian campaign and more (Week 114)
Are you preparing for UPSC CSE Prelims? UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of daily subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus. Attempt today's subject quiz on History and Culture to check your progress. Which of the following temples of South India is known as Dakshina Meru? (a) Kailasanathar Temple at Kanchipuram (b) Airavatesvara temple at Tanjavur (c) Brihadisvara temple at Gangaikondacholapuram (d) Brihadisvara temple at Tanjavur According to The Great Living Chola Temples were built by kings of the Chola Empire, which stretched over all of south India and the neighbouring islands. The site includes three great 11th- and 12th-century Temples: the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram. 'The Brihadisvara temple at Tanjavur marks the greatest achievement of the Chola architects. Known in the inscriptions as Dakshina Meru, the construction of this temple was inaugurated by the Chola King, Rajaraja I (985-1012 CE) possibly in the 19th regal year (1003-1004 CE) and consecrated by his own hands in the 25th regal year (1009-1010 CE).' Therefore, d is the correct answer. (For more, refer: ) With reference to Begum Sultan Jahan, the last Begum of Bhopal, consider the following statements: 1. She was the first female Chancellor of the Mohammadan Anglo Oriental College, Aligarh. 2. She authored a book, Dars-e-Hayat, about the education and parenting of young girls. 3. She founded a Science College in the city of Aligarh. 4. She was the fourth female ruler of Bhopal. Which of the statements given above are true? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Nearly a century ago, when the term feminism was not yet part of common parlance, the princely estate of Bhopal was run by a line of powerful women. In the absence of male successors, they initiated a matrilineal reign from 1819, which continued till 1926. These rulers are often referred to as the Begums of Bhopal. The last Begum of Bhopal was Begum Sultan Jahan. She ruled from 1909 to 1926 after which she stepped down and was succeeded by her son. Apart from being a philanthropist and prolific writer, she was a symbol of women empowerment, known for taking up the cause of female education. She was the first female Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University, which she had nurtured during its nascent stage, when it was still known as the Mohammadan Anglo Oriental College. Born in 1858, Begum Sultan Jahan ascended the throne in 1901. While she was the fourth female ruler of Bhopal, she is credited with many firsts. She was a pioneer in the field of education and even authored a book, Dars-e-Hayat, about the education and parenting of young girls. There was a time when almost every city of the country had one or more educational institutes for girls which were funded by Begum Sultan Jahan. Following in her footsteps, her son Hamidullah Khan, who studied in Aligarh, founded a Science College in the city, and donated Rs two lakh to it. Therefore, c is the correct answer. (For more, refer:The last Begum of Bhopal: How Begum Sultan Jahan fought patriarchy and educated a generation of women, IE) Consider the following statements: 1. It is a temple located on the eastern shores of the Indian subcontinent. was built in the 13th century by Narasimhadeva I. 3. Its chief architect was Bisu Moharana. 4. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1984. Which of the following temples is described by the above statements? (a) Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple (b) Sun Temple (c) Jagannath Temple (d) Mahabodhi Temple According to The Sun Temple at Konarak, located on the eastern shores of the Indian subcontinent, is one of the outstanding examples of temple architecture and art as revealed in its conception, scale and proportion, and in the sublime narrative strength of its sculptural embellishment. The Sun Temple is an exceptional testimony, in physical form, to the 13th-century Hindu Kingdom of Orissa, under the reign of Narasimha Deva I (AD 1238-1264). It is associated with all the legends of its own artistic creation – the most evocative being its construction over twelve years using 1,200 artisans – and the stories about the deep commitment of its master builder, Bisu Moharana, to the project, in which his son (who was born during this period) later became involved. Therefore, b is the correct answer. (For more, refer: 'Sadir attam' refers to: (a) the name of a plant found in ancient Tamil texts (b) classical instruments played along with Mohiniyattam (c) ancient Indian dance book (d) none of the above According to 'Most classical dance forms of India which are strictly based on Natya Shastra, originated from within temple complexes. One such example is the Sadir Attam of Tamil Nadu, today known as Bharatanatyam.' Therefore, d is the correct answer. Consider following statements with reference to Alexander's Indian campaign: 1. The king of Taxila surrendered to Alexander, but beyond the Jhelum he was challenged by the legendary warrior, in the battle of Hydaspes, whom Greek sources have identified as Porus. 2. Alexander defeated Porus, but allowed him to retain his kingdom and left him in charge of Punjab when the Greek army eventually retreated. Which of the above mentioned statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Alexander's Indian campaign Alexander was born in 356 BC at Pella in ancient Greece, and succeeded his father, king Phillip II, to the throne at the age of 20. Over the next 10 years, Alexander led campaigns across large parts of West Asia and North Africa. In 330 BC, he defeated Darius III in the decisive battle of Gaugamela, and after a long campaign in Bactria in the region of the Amu Darya north of today's Afghanistan, he crossed the Hindu Kush and entered the Kabul valley. In 327 BC, Alexander crossed the Indus, the farthest frontier of the old Persian empire, and began his Indian campaign that lasted about two years. The king of Taxila surrendered to Alexander, but beyond the Jhelum he was challenged by the legendary warrior whom Greek sources have identified as Porus. In the battle of Hydaspes that followed, Alexander won, but following his famous interview with Porus — during which the wounded king is said to have demanded that the invading emperor treat him 'as befits a king' — was impressed enough to return to the captive Porus his kingdom, and to leave him in charge of Punjab when the Greek army ultimately retreated. Therefore, c is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Alexander and Chandragupta Maurya: A short history of war, empire, and greatness, IE) With reference to the sources related to the life of Chandragupta Maurya,consider the following statements: and Brahmanical texts differ regarding Chandragupta Maurya's clan. and Indian sources disagree on the point that Chandragupta Maurya overthrew the unpopular last Nanda king, Dhana Nanda, and seized his capital, Pataliputra. Which of the above given statements is/are true? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Chandragupta's imperial ambition Greek and Indian sources agree that Chandragupta overthrew the unpopular last king of the Nandas, Dhana Nanda, and occupied his capital, Pataliputra. The young warrior is said to have been a protege of the Brahmin philosopher Kautilya who, having been insulted by the Nanda king, bore a grudge against him. Buddhist texts say Chandragupta Maurya belonged to the kshatriya Moriya clan associated with the Shakyas. Brahmanical texts, however, refer to the Mauryas as shudras and heretics. Guided by the guile and strategy of Kautilya and by his own great military prowess, Chandragupta went about fulfilling his imperial ambitions. Once he had established his mastery over the plains of the Ganga, he moved north-west to occupy the power vacuum left by the retreat of Alexander's army. Therefore, a is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Alexander and Chandragupta Maurya: A short history of war, empire, and greatness, IE ) 'Ryndia', which has secured the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, belongs to which state? (a) Sikkim (b) West Bengal (c) Meghalaya (d) Mizoram Ryndia Textile (Handicraft) from Meghalaya has secured the Geographical Indication (GI) tag recently. Therefore, c is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Consider the following battles from history: 1. Battle of Saraighat 2. Battle of Karnal 3. Battle of Gaugamela Which of the following is the correct chronological sequence? (a) 1-2-3 (b) 2-3-1 (c) 3-2-1 (d) 3-1-2 In 330 BC, Alexander defeated Darius III in the decisive battle of Gaugamela, and after a long campaign in Bactria in the region of the Amu Darya north of today's Afghanistan, he crossed the Hindu Kush and entered the Kabul valley. Lachit Barphukan, the great Ahom general, inflicted humiliating defeat on the mighty Mughal army in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671, bringing the curtain down on the last major attempt by the Mughals to take Assam. The Battle of Karnal, on February 24, 1739, saw Persian emperor Nadir Shah handing a crushing defeat to the forces of Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah Rangila, effectively ending Mughal power in India. Therefore, d is the correct answer. Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. Manas Srivastava is currently working as Senior Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and leads a unique initiative of IE - UPSC Essentials. He majorly writes on UPSC, other competitive exams and education-related projects. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called 'Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik' and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called 'You Ask We Answer'.His talks on 'How to read a newspaper' focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also the editor of UPSC Essentials' monthly magazine for the aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University's Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women's Studies by the Women's Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on 'Psychological stress among students' at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More
