Guv hails Mizoram society for its service towards special kids
1
2
Aizawl: Mizoram governor Gen VK Singh on Wednesday hailed the
Spastic Society of Mizoram
for its selfless service and enduring commitment to the welfare of
children with special needs
, as he attended the closing event of World Autism Acceptance Month at
Gilead Special School
in the Bawngkawn Brigade area.
Singh acknowledged the society's efforts and praised the Gilead Special School staff for their dedication. "The Lord has chosen you to be the special ones entrusted with extra responsibilities to look after the special ones," he told the parents of differently-abled children.
Reaffirming the govt's
inclusive approach
, Singh said the Prime Minister had championed the use of the term Divyangjan — meaning 'children of God' — instead of 'disabled' to promote dignity and respect for people with special needs. He urged the Spastic Society to broaden its outreach to underserved rural areas.
The programme was chaired by Chhingpuii, chairperson of the Spastic Society, while Prof Margaret Ch Zama, a founding member, shared a brief history of the organisation and vice-chairperson Zokhumi Vankung proposed the vote of thanks.
Founded in 1989, the Spastic Society of Mizoram has been running Gilead Special School since 1990. The school currently serves around 135 specially-abled children, including 30 with autism.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Indian Express
Misal grabs 18th spot in TasteAtlas' ‘50 Best Breakfasts' list; how this humble Maharashtrian dish became a symbol of pride
Misal, chole bhature, and paratha, three beloved staples from Indian kitchens, have been named among the 50 Best Breakfasts in the World, as per the latest list released by TasteAtlas, a global food and travel guide. Misal secured the 18th spot, while paratha came in at 23rd, and chole bhature came in at 32nd. 'These are the best breakfasts of the world!' the caption mentions. While Turkey's Kahvaltı secured the top position, followed by Serbia's Komplet Lepinja, the recognition of Misal, chole bhature, and paratha reflects how deeply comforting and culturally significant Indian breakfasts are. Misal, a fiery and flavourful curry made with sprouted moth beans, topped with farsan and chopped onions, is often served with pav and a slice of lemon. Originally from Maharashtra, this dish is known for its spicy, tangy punch and regional variations. Its roots go beyond taste — it's a reflection of humble ingredients transformed into a hearty, energising start to the day. Alok Singh, expert on food history and science at Diga Organics, tells 'Misal's popularity stems from its deep roots in Maharashtrian working-class culture. It originated as a nourishing, protein-rich breakfast that provided lasting energy to labourers and farmers, especially in rural regions like Kolhapur. The combination of sprouted legumes, spicy gravy, farsan, and pav made it affordable and sustaining. Over time, misal evolved into a cultural staple, served in homes, canteens, and street stalls across the state.' A post shared by TasteAtlas (@tasteatlas) Its popularity is also linked to how it combines Maharashtra's love for spice, layered textures, and community-style eating. Even today, he says that a plate of misal is 'more than food; it's a symbol of regional pride, heritage, and hospitality.' The two most common variations are Kolhapuri and Puneri. Singh mentions that Kolhapuri misal is known for its fiery spice levels and robust flavour profile, reflecting the bold culinary traditions of southern Maharashtra. Puneri misal, on the other hand, is milder, slightly sweet, and often garnished with yoghurt, mirroring Pune's more subdued and refined palate. 'These variations reflect not just regional taste preferences but also each region's lifestyle, climate, and food philosophies. For instance, hotter regions often lean into spicier foods, while urban centers like Pune adapt traditional recipes with modern moderation. This diversity within a single dish like Misal showcases Maharashtra's rich culinary pluralism and its ability to localise flavour without compromising identity,' he informs. Preserving traditional cooking methods and ingredients is vital, not just for culinary heritage, but also for public health. Singh explains, 'The original Misal recipe uses sprouted moth beans, which are high in plant-based protein, fibre, and micronutrients. The preparation involves slow cooking, use of homemade spices, and minimal processing, all of which contribute to better nutrition.' He adds that as Indian breakfasts like Misal receive global attention, there's a risk of commercial versions diluting their nutritional value in favor of convenience. Preserving authenticity ensures that these dishes remain wholesome and rooted in local food wisdom. It also supports regional farmers and small-scale spice producers who form the backbone of India's food ecosystem. 'In a time where highly processed foods are linked to metabolic disorders, going back to our roots, literally and figuratively, could be one of the best health decisions we make as a society,' says the expert.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Gandhi Maidan to get makeover with more greenery and cleanliness: Divisional commissioner
Patna: Divisional commissioner Chandrashekhar Singh on Monday chaired a crucial meeting with officials of several departments, including DM Thiyagarajan SM and Traffic SP Aprajit Lohan, to discuss a comprehensive beautification and infrastructure development plan for the Gandhi Maidan. The Gandhi Maidan, which often faced criticism for poor maintenance, was acknowledged in the meeting with divisional commissioner instructing a three-member committee under additional district magistrate (law & order) to conduct regular inspection and consultations with stakeholders. Representatives from the forest, building construction, and municipal departments were also present. The meeting also decided to bring some immediate changes, including rationalizing commercial activities inside the Maidan to reduce damage to its surface. Over 10-15 coaching centres and fitness trainers currently use the ground for physical training, which has led to grass depletion and dug-up patches. "Officials have been instructed to find alternate training zones nearby without affecting the student interests," said Singh. He further said that in a bid to restore its green cover, the forest department would plant saplings of ornamental and medicinal trees between the boundary wall and the walkway, with a five-year maintenance plan. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo "Patna district mineral foundation will provide funds for pollution control that will be used to install sprinklers to control dust, which has become a major concern for regular visitors," Singh said. Singh said that public amenities were also being upgraded. Existing green toilets would be maintained regularly by the municipal corporation, while two more RO drinking water units would be added apart from the two existing ones near Gates 1 and 5. "Desilting and regular cleaning of drains are to take place with the building construction department being instructed to repair and cover the drains where necessary," he added. Officials also discussed maintenance of open gyms, children's parks, and platforms for karate and yoga, directing concerned departments to ensure cleanliness and functionality. Footpaths around the Maidan will be repaired and fitted with iron grills for both safety and aesthetics. Security will be tightened with regular patrolling, and guards will be deployed at all entry gates in three shifts. Smart City monitoring systems, which already track 128 CCTV cameras around the Maidan and its vicinity, will be strengthened, with additional installations as needed. Singh said, "Patna Traffic Police will also enhance regulation around the Maidan to ensure smooth vehicular movement and pedestrian safety. " In a stern move, the commissioner ordered the immediate removal of the food court currently set up inside the ground near Gate 4. "A designated space has already been allocated for such activity," he said. Lighting infrastructure around the Maidan, including high-mast poles, decorative lights, and streetlights, will be repaired and maintained to ensure proper visibility and safety after dark.
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Ludhiana: Sale of long-duration paddy varieties' seeds banned in Punjab
To protect groundwater and reduce environmental pollution, the Punjab government has imposed a ban on the sale and sowing of long-duration paddy varieties such as Pusa 44 and certain hybrid seeds. The decision follows a recommendation from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, and aims to curb the growing water crisis and air pollution caused by stubble burning. Chief agriculture officer of Ludhiana, Gurdeep Singh, said that these long-duration paddy varieties require more water and often face harvesting delays due to changing weather conditions. This not only creates problems at the time of marketing the crop but also affects the timely sowing of wheat. As a result, many farmers are forced to burn stubble to clear fields quickly, which severely pollutes the air. He explained that such varieties are proving harmful to both water and air quality. If their cultivation continues, future generations may not have access to clean air or sufficient underground water. He appealed to farmers to act responsibly and choose more sustainable crop varieties for the sake of the environment and public health. Dr Singh urged farmers not to transplant seedlings of Pusa 44 or hybrid varieties if already sown in nurseries. Instead, they should opt for recommended short-duration varieties like PR 126, PR 131, and PR 132. These mature faster, require less water, are less prone to pests and diseases, and are more profitable in the long run. He reassured that these varieties are easily available in the market and supported by the government. The agriculture officer also warned that farmers trying to sell or market banned paddy varieties like Pusa 44 may face challenges during procurement. He encouraged them to cooperate in this collective effort to preserve Punjab's natural resources for a healthier and more secure future.
