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Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Kargil Vijay Diwas: Honouring courage beyond the mountains
Dr (Prof) Sadhana Kala is a USA-trained robotic & laparoscopic surgeon, Uppsala University, Sweden, trained fertility specialist, and 'National Icon Endoscopic Surgeon' of India. University topper and winner of several gold and silver medals and Certificates of Honor and the unique 'Distinction' in medicine in medical college, she is the youngest-ever Professor in any medical college anywhere, and the only-ever gynec Hon Consultant to the Army, Navy and Air Force. FORMER: President Family Welfare Foundation of India (now closed) one of the few UN -accredited NGO since 1997; Member of Central Consumer Protection Council, Government of India, the apex national advisory body on consumer affairs; Advisor, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India; Member, Advisory Committee, MTNL (Delhi). Awardee of C L Jhaveri and P N Behl Awards of Indian Medical Association for professional excellence. Chief emeritus and currently Sr Consultant gynecologist and laparoscopic surgeon, Moolchan Medcity and Apollo Cradle Hospitals, New Delhi. She is a published-writer on varied topics. Facebook: Twitter: She also writes at Air Vice Marshal Prakash Kala is an experimental test pilot and is the co-writer of the blog. LESS ... MORE Introduction: A day etched in valor Every year on July 26, India solemnly observes Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorating the valor and sacrifice of the armed forces who secured a decisive victory during the Kargil War of 1999. Set against the daunting terrain of the Himalayas, the war was not merely a battle for territory but a defining moment of national resilience, military strategy, and unity. Twenty-six years later, the legacy of Kargil continues to inspire generations. The prelude: Betrayal at high altitudes The seeds of the Kargil conflict were sown in deceit. Under the guise of regular winter troop withdrawals along the Line of Control (LoC), Pakistani soldiers and militants infiltrated Indian territory, occupying strategic posts in the Kargil sector of Jammu & Kashmir. These positions, often located at altitudes of 16,000–18,000 feet, overlooked the vital National Highway 1A, which connects Srinagar to Leh, posing a significant threat to India's military and logistical infrastructure in the region. The intrusions were initially discovered by local shepherds, triggering a series of escalations that quickly transformed into full-scale conflict. Operation Vijay: A response of steeled resolve India's response to the invasion was swift and strategic. The government launched 'Operation Vijay' on May 26, 1999, to flush out infiltrators and reclaim the occupied territories. What followed was a gruelling 60-day war, characterized by intense artillery exchanges, high-altitude assaults, and immense human cost. Indian soldiers, drawn from regiments across the country—Gorkhas, Rajputs, Sikhs, Grenadiers, and others—scaled near-vertical cliffs under enemy fire, often in sub-zero temperatures, to retake peaks like Tiger Hill, Tololing, and Point 4875. By July 26, the Indian Army had successfully cleared most of the positions, forcing Pakistan to withdraw and accept a return to the status quo ante. Human cost: A heavy price for victory India lost over 500 soldiers during the conflict. These were not just soldiers, but sons, brothers, fathers, and friends—each with a life and story interrupted. Names like Captain Vikram Batra, Lieutenant Anuj Nayyar, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav, and Rifleman Sanjay Kumar became symbols of gallantry. Captain Batra's famous war cry, 'Yeh dil maange more!' resonated across the nation and became emblematic of India's fighting spirit. Awarded the Param Vir Chakra, his actions at Point 4875 are still recounted with reverence. Their sacrifices transformed a generation's understanding of patriotism—not as flag-waving nationalism, but as quiet courage in the face of mortal danger. Beyond the battlefield: Lessons in policy and perception The Kargil War had broader implications than just military success. It reshaped India's defense policies, intelligence coordination, and international diplomacy. Intelligence revamp: The initial infiltration went undetected by Indian intelligence agencies, exposing serious lapses. This led to the reorganization of intelligence frameworks, the strengthening of the Technical Intelligence (TECHINT) apparatus, and the development of more integrated surveillance mechanisms. Defense modernization: The war highlighted the importance of high-altitude warfare readiness. India began investing in modern artillery, UAVs, satellite imaging, and improved equipment for soldiers stationed in challenging terrain. Diplomatic wins: Unlike in past conflicts, India took the high road diplomatically. Then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee secured broad international support, particularly from the United States, which pressured Pakistan to withdraw. This isolated Pakistan diplomatically and exposed the façade of the non-state actor used to justify the intrusion. Media and memory: Kargil in public consciousness Kargil was India's first televised war. Channels like Doordarshan and NDTV brought real-time coverage from the frontlines into Indian homes. Images of young officers giving interviews before heading into battle, and the funerals of martyred soldiers, etched themselves into the national psyche. Films like 'LOC: Kargil', 'Lakshya', and 'Shershaah' further immortalized these stories, not as propaganda, but as poignant reminders of bravery. Music, too, played a role—songs like 'Sandese Aate Hain' are still played on Kargil Diwas, invoking teary-eyed recollection. Commemorations: Remembering with purpose Across the country, Kargil Vijay Diwas is marked with ceremonies, marches, and tributes. The Kargil War Memorial in Dras, built in the shadow of the recaptured peaks, becomes a focal point. Thousands—veterans, families of martyrs, schoolchildren, and ordinary citizens—gather there to pay homage. Kargil Wall Memorial, Dras In Delhi and other cities, events are organized by the Indian Army, the Air Force, and civil society organizations. Speeches, poetry, and photo exhibitions recall the cost of freedom and the commitment to its defense. The significance today: More than just history In an age dominated by geopolitical uncertainty, the legacy of Kargil holds enduring relevance: National unity: At a time when divisions often dominate discourse, the memory of Kargil unites India—across religion, region, and ideology. At a time when divisions often dominate discourse, the memory of Kargil unites India—across religion, region, and ideology. Civil-military bond: It reminds civilians of the sacrifices made to uphold national sovereignty, and bolsters respect for those who serve. It reminds civilians of the sacrifices made to uphold national sovereignty, and bolsters respect for those who serve. Preparedness: With threats along both western and northern borders evolving, Kargil is a case study in asymmetric warfare, terrain-based strategy, and the importance of inter-agency coordination. Personal stories: From grief to grit Behind every gallantry award lies a family shaped by loss—and pride. Mothers like Kamla Batra (mother of Captain Vikram Batra) became voices of resilience, turning personal grief into national pride. In villages across India, schools, roads, and stadiums have been named after martyrs. Their legacies continue in cadets joining the armed forces, inspired not only by uniforms but also by the purpose. Conclusion: A nation forever indebted Kargil Vijay Diwas is more than a commemoration—it is a vow renewed each year. A vow to never forget the soldiers who fought where few dared to climb. A vow to uphold the integrity of a nation they defended with their lives. And a vow to ensure that courage, when remembered, becomes the seed of more courage. As India stands tall today on the global stage—economically, diplomatically, and militarily—the shadow of those peaks remains behind us. Not as a burden, but as a silent salute to the few who gave their all so that many could live free. Let every July 26 remind us: Freedom is not free. But some paid for it in full. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
News18
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
‘He‘s Rajeev Ahuja?' Hunt On For ‘Pookie IIT Prof' After His Dab, Korean Heart, Goggles Go Viral
Last Updated: As students came up to receive their degrees, many of them politely asked Prof. Ahuja to strike their favourite poses for a photo. A video from IIT Ropar's 14th annual convocation has gone viral on the internet, and for all the right reasons. The video shows the institute's director, Prof Rajeev Ahuja, happily joining students for quirky poses like the dab, Korean heart and even the trending pookie pose. Internet users can't stop praising the professor for his cool and fun attitude. The convocation ceremony was held recently in Punjab. A total of 720 degrees were awarded this year. But what caught everyone's attention wasn't just the numbers — it was a heartwarming moment between the students and the director. As students came up to receive their degrees, many of them politely asked Prof. Ahuja to strike their favourite poses for a photo. To everyone's surprise, he agreed to every single one of them. With a cheerful smile, he did the dab, made finger hearts, and even posed like 'pookie." One clip shows him putting on sunglasses, which made the crowd erupt with cheers. That one move with the shades became a highlight of the event. The video was shared on the social media page IIT Ropar Diaries, where it gathered over 5 lakh views in just one day. The caption read, 'Convocation fit Degree The internet showered the professor with love and respect. One comment read, 'When your IIT is 2nd gen but the Director is the OG." Another said, 'The professor should live longer… teach longer… God bless him." Who Is Rajeev Ahuja Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, often seen as a serious academic, has now earned the title of 'coolest prof" online. But who is he? Rajeev Ahuja is a renowned Professor of Computational Materials Science at Uppsala University, Sweden. He is currently serving as the Director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, India. From November 2023 to May 2024, he also held the additional charge of Director at IIT Guwahati. Prof. Ahuja is among the most highly cited researchers in his field and is ranked among the top five materials scientists in both Sweden and India. He completed his Ph.D. in 1992 from IIT Roorkee, India. In the same year, he joined Uppsala University as a post-doctoral fellow. He was appointed as a Professor at Uppsala University in 2007. view comments First Published: July 18, 2025, 09:32 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Daily Mail
12-07-2025
- Science
- Daily Mail
Archaeologists make surprising discovery at Easter Island
More than 2,000 miles off the coast of Chile Easter Island is geographically one of the most isolated places on Earth but a new study has challenged what research previously understood about the island. It was first settled by humans around AD 1200, who built its famous enlarged head statues. Historically, the original inhabitants, known as the Rapa Nui, were assumed to have long been completely shut off from the wider world. However, a new study by researchers in Sweden challenges this long-held narrative. Research say the 63.2 sq mile island in the southern Pacific was not quite as isolated over the past 800 years as previously thought. In fact, the island was populated with multiple waves of new inhabitants who bravely traversed the Pacific Ocean from west to east. Study author Professor Paul Wallin at Uppsala University said: 'Easter Island was settled from central East Polynesia around AD 1200-1250. 'The Polynesians were skilled sailors so double canoes were used.' Due to its remote location, Easter Island is traditionally assumed to have remained socially and culturally isolated from the wider Pacific world. This idea is reinforced by the fact that Easter Island's famous Moai statues, estimated to have been built between AD 1250 and 1500, are completely unique to the location. The huge human figures carved from volcanic rock were placed on rectangular stone platforms called 'ahu' – essentially tombs for the people that the statues represented. For their study, the team at Uppsala University compared archaeological data and radiocarbon dates from settlements, ritual spaces and monuments across Polynesia, the collection of more than 1,000 islands in the Pacific Ocean. Their results, published in the journal Antiquity, show that similar ritual practices and monumental structures have been observed across Polynesia. The experts point out that ahu stone platforms were historically constructed at Polynesian islands further to the west. These rectangular clearings were communal ritual spaces that, in some places, remain sacred to this day. Wallin added: 'The temple grounds ahu [also known as marae] exist on all East Polynesian islands.' The team agree that an early population of people spread from the west of the Pacific to the east before encountering Easter Island and populating it around AD 1200. However, they argue that Easter Island was populated several times by new seafarers – not just once by one group who remained isolated for centuries as previously assumed. The paper reads: 'The migration process from West Polynesian core areas such as Tonga and Samoa to East Polynesia is not disputed here. 'Still, the static west-to-east colonization and dispersal suggested for East Polynesia and the idea that Rapa Nui was only colonized once in the past and developed in isolation is challenged.' Based on their evidence, they also think ahu originated on Easter Island before the trend spread east to west across other western Polynesian islands during the period of AD 1300-1600. It was only after this that Polynesian islands – including but not limited to Easter Island – might have become isolated from each other. As hierarchical social structures developed independently – at Easter Island, Tahiti and Hawai'i for example – large, monumental structures were built to display power. Overall, the study indicates there were robust 'interaction networks' between Polynesian islands, which allowed the transfer of new ideas from east to west and back again. Ultimately, THE arrival of European explorers at Easter Island in the 18th century led to a rapid decline of the population, brought on by murder, bloody conflict, and the brutal slave trade – although the population there may have already been weakening. Today, Easter Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with only a few thousand inhabitants. But it attracts large numbers of tourists, largely thanks to its monumental and world-famous stone statues that stare sternly out over the island. Tourism, which has grown exponentially on the island over the last 20 years, has come at a price, according to co-author Professor Helene Martinsson-Wallin. She said: 'When I was there in the 1980s, the sandy beach was white and there were almost no people around. 'When I came back in the early 00s, I thought the sand looked blue, and when I looked closer I saw that it was due to tiny, tiny pieces of plastic washed up by the sea from every corner of the Earth.'
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Navigating the future: The significance of World Population Day in a changing world
Dr (Prof) Sadhana Kala is a USA-trained robotic & laparoscopic surgeon, Uppsala University, Sweden, trained fertility specialist, and 'National Icon Endoscopic Surgeon' of India. University topper and winner of several gold and silver medals and Certificates of Honor and the unique 'Distinction' in medicine in medical college, she is the youngest-ever Professor in any medical college anywhere, and the only-ever gynec Hon Consultant to the Army, Navy and Air Force. FORMER: President Family Welfare Foundation of India (now closed) one of the few UN -accredited NGO since 1997; Member of Central Consumer Protection Council, Government of India, the apex national advisory body on consumer affairs; Advisor, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India; Member, Advisory Committee, MTNL (Delhi). Awardee of C L Jhaveri and P N Behl Awards of Indian Medical Association for professional excellence. Chief emeritus and currently Sr Consultant gynecologist and laparoscopic surgeon, Moolchan Medcity and Apollo Cradle Hospitals, New Delhi. She is a published-writer on varied topics. Facebook: Twitter: She also writes at LESS ... MORE Every year on July 11th, the global community observes World Population Day, a United Nations initiative established in 1989 to draw attention to the urgency and importance of population issues. As we step into the third decade of the 21st century, the significance of this day is more pronounced than ever. With the global population exceeding 8 billion in 2022 and projections suggesting continued growth, World Population Day serves not only as a moment of reflection but also as a call to action. In 2025, this observance takes on renewed urgency. Climate change, urbanization, migration, food insecurity, and global inequality are all tightly interwoven with demographic dynamics. Understanding these connections is crucial for developing sustainable and inclusive policies that can enhance lives worldwide. The origins and purpose of World Population Day World Population Day was inspired by the Day of Five Billion, which was observed on July 11, 1987, when the world's population reached an estimated five billion. The event highlighted the rapid growth of the global population and the challenges associated with it. Two years later, the Governing Council of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) established World Population Day to highlight the urgency and significance of population issues, as well as their interdependence with development and the environment. Since then, it has become a platform to promote awareness around issues such as reproductive health, gender equality, family planning, and the need for comprehensive data collection to inform policymaking. Global population trends: Growth and disparities As of mid-2025, the global population is estimated to be approximately 8.1 billion, with most growth occurring in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and certain regions of South Asia. According to UN estimates, by 2050, more than half of global population growth will be concentrated in just eight countries: the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Tanzania. This uneven growth presents a dual challenge. On the one hand, many developed countries are grappling with aging populations, declining birth rates, and shrinking labor forces. On the other hand, countries with high fertility rates face immense pressure to provide adequate health care, education, housing, and employment opportunities for their rapidly growing youth populations. Urbanization and infrastructure One of the most visible impacts of population growth is urbanization. The United Nations projects that by 2050, nearly 70% of the world's population will live in urban areas. While urban centers can offer opportunities for economic development and social mobility, rapid and unplanned urban growth often leads to overcrowding, slums, inadequate sanitation, and increased pressure on public services. Cities like Lagos, Dhaka, and Kinshasa are expanding at unprecedented rates, often outpacing the development of critical infrastructure. The challenge is to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable—a goal encapsulated in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11. Climate change and environmental impact Population dynamics are deeply intertwined with environmental sustainability. Larger populations increase demand for food, water, energy, and other natural resources. Agricultural expansion, deforestation, and water scarcity are directly linked to demographic pressures in many parts of the world. Conversely, it's essential to recognize that consumption patterns—not just population numbers—drive environmental degradation. High-income countries, despite having slower population growth, contribute disproportionately to carbon emissions and ecological footprints. World Population Day provides an opportunity to reflect on how sustainable development strategies must address both population growth and responsible consumption to combat climate change and preserve ecosystems. Reproductive health and rights Access to reproductive health services, including contraception and family planning, remains a cornerstone of population policy. According to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), over 270 million women in developing countries have an unmet need for modern contraception. This unmet need not only undermines women's health and autonomy but also impedes broader social and economic progress. World Population Day champions reproductive rights as human rights. Empowering women and girls to make informed choices about their bodies, health, and lives is essential to reducing unintended pregnancies, improving maternal and child health, and achieving gender equality. Youth and employment Nearly 1.8 billion people worldwide are between the ages of 10 and 24, making today's youth the largest generation in history. This demographic offers a potential 'demographic dividend'—economic growth resulting from a shift in a population's age structure—but only if young people are equipped with the education, skills, and employment opportunities needed to thrive. In many countries, however, high youth unemployment and underemployment persist, creating frustration and fueling migration and political instability. World Population Day is a call to invest in young people as drivers of innovation and progress, ensuring they are not left behind in the pursuit of development goals. Migration and displacement Global population trends are increasingly influenced by migration, both voluntary and forced. Conflicts, climate change, and economic disparities are driving millions across borders each year. As of 2024, over 120 million people are forcibly displaced, the highest number in recorded history. Migration can be a powerful force for economic development and cultural exchange, but it also presents complex challenges related to integration, xenophobia, and the allocation of resources. On World Population Day, we are reminded of the importance of building inclusive societies that respect the rights and dignity of all people, regardless of their place of origin. Data, policy, and planning Effective population policies depend on accurate and timely data. Censuses, surveys, and demographic studies provide essential insights into trends in fertility, mortality, migration, and population distribution. This data underpins decisions in health, education, urban planning, and environmental protection. Unfortunately, many low-income countries lack the resources or political stability to conduct regular and reliable data collection. Strengthening data systems is thus a crucial priority for international development. The road ahead: Toward sustainable populations The challenges posed by population growth are immense, but they are not insurmountable. Policies that promote education, especially for girls, expand access to healthcare and family planning, support economic development, and foster environmental sustainability can help societies manage demographic change more effectively. World Population Day reminds us that population trends are not just numbers—they are about people. Each birth, each death, and each migration tells a story of hope, struggle, and opportunity. By understanding and addressing the complex interplay of demographic, economic, and environmental factors, we can build a future that is both equitable and sustainable. Conclusion On World Population Day 2025, we must reaffirm our commitment to the principles of human rights, sustainability, and shared responsibility. The world's population may be growing, but so too are our resources of knowledge, technology, and compassion. Whether it's a young girl in rural Nepal gaining access to education, a refugee finding safety in a new country, or a community coming together to protect its environment, every action counts. As we confront the challenges and embrace the opportunities of our demographic future, World Population Day serves as both a mirror and a map—a reflection of where we are and a guide to where we can go. Let it inspire action that uplifts humanity, respects the planet, and secures a better world for future generations. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
South China Morning Post
10-07-2025
- Health
- South China Morning Post
Why won't your baby stop crying? Genetics, not just parenting, play big part, study finds
How much a baby torments its parents with its cries is determined not just by parenting techniques by also by genes, new research has shown. After a study on hundreds of twins, a team of scientists in Sweden has concluded that how long a baby cries for is largely determined by genetic factors. The child's sleep quality and ability to be soothed during its first few months are also influenced by genetic predisposition. 'For parents, it may be a comfort to know that their child's crying is largely explained by genetics, and that they themselves have limited options to influence how much their child cries,' said study leader Charlotte Viktorsson, from Uppsala University in Sweden. A study on the sleep quality and crying duration in infants found twins woke up less frequently than single children. Photo: Shutterstock The team's analysis was based on questionnaires completed by the parents of 998 same-sex identical or fraternal twins when the children were two months and five months old.
