cosmetic surgeies- saina kohli

COSMETIC SURGERIES...

In today's society the picture of beauty is a rail thin super model with the body of a goddess posted on billboards all around the world. Children are brought up playing with Barbie dolls with the body measurements of would be 39, 18, 38. Because of these pictures and other figures of beauties projected all over, a person is convinced to believe that to be beautiful and happy, one must look like these images. To most, the easiest way to achieve this is my having cosmetic surgery performed.

Plastic/cosmetic surgery for "beautification" is a result of our materialistic and image reinforced society to what society chooses to be "beautiful" Even smiles are beginning to look as though they have come off of production lines. Teeth are bleached and perfectly even. cosmetic standards are rising to a level that exceeds good sense. As a result, it lowers our self-esteem, since we are trying to "become" what is accepted as beautiful.

We should be happy with just the way we are, not needing plastic surgery to feel "better "and accepted...

Sometimes Low-income people that are attracted to the visions of beauty on the magazines are caught in the lure of these "fake" surgeons. These doctors promise perfect results at half the price of experienced surgeons. Some of these doctors may even produce fake credentials, such as fake PhDs, for customers to view. Customers see these and without doing any research on the doctor, pay the money for the surgery to be performed. With the increase of untrained surgeons performing these procedures, the risk of death and many improper results also increases greatly.
People considering plastic surgery should be informed of all the risks. They should not be concerned with trying to live up to society's standards and by the price of the operations. They should most be concerned with the real price, their lives!.

-SAINA KOHLI

CLASS - 9TH B

ELECTION TIME...

Britain at Electoral Crossroads

BY -SEHAJ GHUMAN

One of the world's oldest democracy and highly esteemed nation is ready for a variation. 10 Downing Street is ready for a newfound owner.
With the vital date of 6th May 2010 just around the corner,the British are ready to make a choice. Gordon Brown,David Cameron and Nick Clegg are gearing to take power over the House of Commons.
The Labour Party this time led by Gordon Brown is aiming to secure a fourth consecutive term in office,but the latter will face a nasty competition from the Conservative Party,who hope to regain the same dominant position in UK politics as in the 1990's with David Cameron as their front runner. Nick Clegg of the Liberal Democrats hopes to make inroads into the mandates of both the sides.
The leading Labour Party believes that a lot can be achieved by the strength of common endeavour.They claim themselves as a "Democratic Socialist Party" and promote living together in the spirit of solidarity,tolerance and respect. On the other hand,the Conservative Party is offering rebuttal by promoting a VOTE FOR CHANGE. They are bullish on getting the sluggish British economy moving and hope to raise standards in the schools. The Liberal Democrats promise to build a FAIRER BRITAIN. They are the only party promising to deliver positive changes in the environment.
Britain is gearing up for a three-legged race instead of a two-pole playoff.
A tough competition awaits the trio, even as the whole World waits with

CELL PHONES MORE INPORTANT THAN MAN’S BEST FRIEND . . . .???

SEHAJ GHUMAN

Albert Einstein quotes “it has been appallingly obvious that our technology has exceeded our humanity.”
It has transcended enough to give man’s best friend the back bench. People are splurging money in thousands to buy the new cell phone in town, whereas there is no psychiatrist in the world like a dog licking your face.
Money will buy you a cell phone that might entertain you for a while but will take a toll on your health, it may make you feel satisfied with your success but if you really want to feel rich then just count the things that money can’t buy. So no matter how little money you own or lack the new technologies, having a dog will make you rich. So let us pay attention to the things that matter in life than the things that would make us popular in high – school !!!!

EARTH DAY

SAVE OR GRAVE
BY-SEHAJ GHUMAN

The Earth is degrading at a tremendous speed, Mother Earth is threatening her own children. Carmelites cannot sit back and let this happen.
Carmel Convent School,Chandigarh is making a great effort to put the green foot forward. 22nd April, marked as World Earth Day was celebrated by the latter as an effort to save Mother Earth.
The Primary school students carried out a procession to create awareness among the Chandigarhites. Tiny-tot, Arni was promoting water conservation saying, "A bottle of water that we throw,could help a plant grow."
One of the teachers, accompanying the students in the rally, Ms.Chandarvati stated,"This day is very important and is a vital one for each human being. I am educating the students about the do's and dont's for preserving nature."
Interactive sessions and competitions were held throughout the day, students eagerly made posters,slogans and masks. Saplings were planted on the campus ground.
Ananya, a class X student said, "We are destroying our own home, it is the duty of each responsible citizen to contribute in preserving it." Offering solutions, a teacher Ms.Esha said, "If we want to benefit the Earth, we can grow more trees, save water, cover small distances by foot instead of travelling in vehicles."
Acting fast will be our last hope of avoiding disaster. Sr.Maria Christie, Principal of Carmel Convent School commented, "We should treat each day as Earth Day, our efforts to save Mother Earth should be on a regular basis." So SAVE the Earth or GRAVE the Earth, the choice is ours....

Books our Best Friends

By: Prerna Sharma

“Books are the carriers of civilization. Without books history is silent, literature dumb, science crippled, thought and speculation at a standstill.”

Celebrated on 23^rd of April, World Book Day seeks to promote reading amongst the youngsters and to gain a renewed respect for the irreplaceable contributions of those who have furthered the social and cultural progress of humanity. 23^rd April is also considered as a symbolic date in world literature as on this date in the year of 1616 died Shakespeare- whose writing contained more actual wisdom than the whole body of English learning. This coincidently happens to be his birth anniversary as well.

To commemorate this event the British Library, Sector-9 Chandigarh organized several competitions which took place on the 22^nd and 23^rd of April. The competitions organized were Dress as your favourite book character, Book mark designing, draw your favourite Shakespeare character and a debate competition.

The Carmel girls this time also shone brightly. They bagged 4 prizes in all the competitions. Maria Joseph stood 1^st in the Fancy Dress Competition, Prerna Sharma of class 9 came 2^nd in draw you’re your favourite Shakespeare character and Jaisha Garg and Meghna Bhasin stood 3^rd in the book mark designing and debate competition respectively.

The chief guest Mrs. Sumita Mishra honoured the prize distribution ceremony with her noble ideas. She said that books are works of art and science and vehicles for ideas. They magnificently materialize creative diversity, generate universal knowledge and contribute inter cultural dialogue.

“Books improve our knowledge about others and of their philosophies and therefore enhance our understanding of the world. They also provide development opportunities for all ages and in particular for young people.” said a parent present at the event.

On 23^rd April 2010 let us celebrate every aspect of books across the world and recognize them as instruments of peace.

Every Day should be the Earth Day

By: Prerna Sharma and Inayat Sood

Earth Day is a day designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the earth’s environment. Celebrated on 22nd April it is a day devoted to show our gratitude towards earth. This day aims at growing eco-activism among the people and specially the children.

The students of junior wing of Carmel Convent School, Chandigarh celebrated this event by planting a new tree “CHAKRASIYA” in the Pharmaceutical Garden in the school campus. Students of classes 1 and 2 actively took part in the poster making and slogan writing competition. These tiny tots could be seen jumping actively showing around their posters some of which read “Plant a tree, Save the Earth” and “Preserve Nature and Save the Planet”. The senior students were also not behind in the race for protecting our Mother Earth. The students of classes 6 – 9 took part in Mask Making, Slogan Writing and Poster Making competitions. On one hand the posters of senior students displayed intense messages like that of “Global Warming is Global Warning” and on the other hand the students of class 6 are now too conscious to pluck a flower.

“The earth’s climate is significantly changing at a faster than normal rate. One thing remains clear that mankind’s actions are behind these changes. We’re not environmentalists but can contribute by saving electricity”, said Prerna Sharma and Inayat Sood of class 9. For 200 years we’ve been conquering nature and now are beating it to death. It is good that the younger generation is coming up and putting a lot of effort to preserve earth. This was what Sr. Maria Christi, the principal of Carmel Convent School said “I’m happy to see the students creating awareness on this topic. And it is not only today that we should save the earth, but it should be done regularly by saving electricity and using the water judiciously”.

So our message on this earth day for all is “DON’T BLOW IT – GOOD PLANETS ARE HARD TO FIND” remember always we do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children

BY-SEHAJ GHUMAN AND SAINA KOHLI


OUR INVITE....
WALK FOR THE HERITAGE..!!

An initiative taken earnestly by Carmel Convent School.
Save our heritage because it's not the honor that you take with you but the heritage you leave behind.



Carmel Convent School will come forth in the Chandigarh heritage walk which will commence tomorrow, 18th April at 6:30 am at the cultural venue- the open hand monument. The volunteer conservers of the heritage will walk 2km to the rock garden in a fascinating procession which would be outlined by a rally organized by Carmel Convent School.



The Carmelites will entertain the audiences with a dance and music concert followed by a refreshing welcome speech. To engage the audiences, a group of activities will be organized by the latter, which would analyze the knowledge of the attendants and will update them on the new facts with attractive posters, banners and pamphlets. The prize winners will be rewarded by souvenirs.



A cleanliness drive will be coordinated by Carmel Convent School which would contribute to the idea of a better hygiene for the tricity.


Only with the good intentions of the school administration - the heritage can be preserved .So, let's stop encroachment and PROTECT OUR HERITAGE !!



So, we invite you to transmit a reporter and a photographer to cover the event.

Thank you.

THINK GLOBALLY, ACT LOCALLY!!!!!


Environment has degenerated to such an extent that now there's so much pollution in the air that if it weren't for our lungs there'd be no place to put it all.

Carmel Convent School , Chandigarh is not behind in the race for protecting Mother Earth. The continuous efforts made by our school are blooming as our school has one of the most eco-friendly campuses in the tricity. The latter has been organizing abundant activities like models on endangered species, environment quizzes, CD waste management and making hand-made paper bags to ban plastics.
Several saplings were planted in the Pharmaceutical gardens of our campus on the occasion of Vanamohatsava. PowerPoint presentations were used to deliver the message of conserving our environment.
It’s cool to be an Eco-School so – GREEN, that’s how Carmelites would like the world to be!

by - ankita srivastava ; saina kohli ; sehaj ghuman

What is Saathi?

- By Sachi Singhal

Saathi, is a friend in need for those who have none, a ray of hope for those who have lived in darkness forever, and the corner of that innocent smile on those faces who had long forgotten what is it to smile again.
Inaugurated on 17th December, 2009 by the Governor Gen S.F. Rodriguez and Home Sec. Mr. Ram Niwas, this Non- Governmental Organization (NGO) is an Alternative Innovative Centre (AIC) where more than 300 underprivileged kids are taken care of. We look after their every need; see they are not deprived of any facility the administration has bestowed upon them and teach them the fundamentals of everything, from the origin of Santa Claus to how to maintain personal hygiene.
Our main aim is to make them worthy of main stream schooling (In simple words, they are coached in the evening; mainstream is the type of schooling we have been through or are doing). Every helping hand is welcome, every sincerely interested person invited. Come, join us! 

Decisions and Deliberation - Saathi's First Meeting

- Meghna Bhasin

On the 17th of March, Saathi, the NGO formed by the students of Carmel Convent School, held their first official meeting.

The meeting commenced with the singing of the National Anthem, after which the members of Saathi sat down to begin their elaborate planning and decide on the agendas for the upcoming months.

The structure of Saathi was decided as follows – The NGO is divided into five committees, namely, the Community Service Committee, the Cultural Committee, the Sports Committee, the Social Committee and the Extra – Curricular Committee. Each Committee is headed by a Committee Leader, who is changed every two months.

The team decided that their goal would be to execute at least five to six projects in the period of two months. The projects, depending on their type, would fall into the section of the different committees.

Together, the members of Saathi discussed their ideas, displaying great insight and creativity and finally, a list of agendas were created. A few events that we are sure to see in the future include a Sports Day, organized in the Government Model High School, Sector 52, a Rock Concert, organized in the Rock Garden, as well as other educational activities like sermons on the importance of road safety and first aid, well as competitions and quizzes.

Another cool thing which will soon be seen is the Saathi NGO t-shirt, which will be available to all volunteers, as well as anyone who wants to support the Saathi cause.

All the members of Saathi seem fired up and enthusiastic as can be. This will also help them in another major project – profiling. Every single student of The Sector 52 Government Model High School will be closely interacted with, and his/her records will be kept in order to ensure the all round development of every child and to make sure that he/she is happy. The aim of Saathi is to grow close to the students of the school.

The meeting ended with the rendition of the National Anthem, and the promise of great things to come.

It looks like we will see many interesting developments in Saathi’s agenda scheme. Don’t forget, Saathi is always open to more volunteers. Lend a helping hand and save a child!

The Event of the Year - Sports Day

-By Meghna Bhasin

On the 14th of February, when most people were celebrating Valentines’ Day, the students of Carmel Convent School, Sector 9B, Chandigarh, had a different game plan; and using the word ‘game’ is extremely apt, for they were celebrating their Sports Day in which Classes first to the eleventh took part with great vigor and enthusiasm, performing in front of parents and the Chief Guest, Mr.
The function started off with a bang, as the school band magnificently welcomed the chief guest, followed by a march past conducted by the students of Class 9, displaying the values of pride, and discipline.
This performance was only the beginning of many other enthralling ones. Each class showcased a fantastic performance, each unique in their own way whether it was the graceful ‘Peace prevails’ dance by Class 6, involving many yoga postures, or, ‘Emotional Ecstasy’ by Class 8 , whose skillful dance moves, choreographed by Enayat, a student of Class 8 herself, set everyone’s feet tapping.
Even the tiny tots got an opportunity to showcase their hard work. Twirling and swirling with ribbons, hula hoops and umbrellas in their hands, in performances like The Colours of Life and Seasonal Sonata, they seemed to be having even more fun than the enraptured parents watching!
Various races were held, and the children of each class took part with fierce determination. Some of the competitions included the wheel and barrow race, shuttle race, hockey race and bucket race for the older students, while the younger ones took part in just as delightful races, like, rolling the log to the fair, off to grandma’s house and Cinderella’s walk.
The Chief Guest presented special awards to students who had achieved special merits in athletic excellence and also enlightened them through his insightful words of wit and wisdom.
The display of the band at the end was an absolutely spectacular. Dressed in their uniforms of green and white, bearing their shining instruments of percussion, the Carmel Convent school band mesmerized their spectators. They flaunted their routine with a perfection that left a rapt expression on everybody’s faces. The combined effect of drums, with trumpets and other brass instruments was a sight to behold.
Carmel Convent’s Sports Day was an occasion that will be remembered. The students, who put in a lot of hard work and practice, also were in extremely high spirits because of their success.
The participants as well as their parents went home exultant. What better way to spend a day than that?

Saathi : Spreading awareness among masses

- By Sachi Singhal

Learning personal hygiene is one of the most essential aspects of childhood lessons, which, unfortunately, were not provided to the kids under our care, until recently, when Saathi took the initiative to educate these children about this mandatory and inevitable in every day life and lifestyle.
On 20th January,20 Saathi volunteers along with Punita ma’am and Harpreet ma’am, armed with a projector and laptop marched into the building of Government Middle School, Sector 52.
As the projector was set up in one classroom, the other volunteers, organized in groups of three, went into different classrooms to introduce these kids to a subject alien to them but absolutely necessary at the same time. This introduction was followed by a half an hour lecture cum presentation on personal hygiene. Basic everyday things like washing hands before and after meals, combing and brushing teeth everyday, healthy food and lifestyle, punctuality and cleanliness were covered. The eager kids were hooked to the animated cartoons and the attractive presentation, and listened and responded eagerly to the questions stated at them. Even their teachers appreciated our efforts, says Mrs. Diljeet, a teacher in one of these classes, “Your presentation was simple yet efficient, and was a good way of teaching these young children the basic facts and ways of healthy living,”
Sachi, the project leader for this event, also quotes,” This experience was a unique one, educating both the teacher and the students. Even though we were the teaching group, we also gained a lot in return, right from creating awareness among masses to the content and thoughtful looks on each of the children’s faces. I shall never forget this exhilarating experience in my life.” Meetali further adds,”Facing so many expectant faces was a hard task, but as the atmosphere became warm and comfortable, it felt great to be with the amiable and friendly kids, and teaching them was an unforgettable experience.”
Adrija, another volunteer, further chirps in, “This interactive session created awareness among these not so fortunate children, and taught us the art of patience, understanding and spreading education among as many as possible, and we are evergrateful to Saathi for providing us such an amazing platform.”
Punita ma’am, our head supervisor, quotes,” I am really pleased with the way Saathi has shaped up. Teaching these children was a hand on job, and the flying colours with which our volunteers have succeeded in performing these tedious tasks has amazed me a lot. Three cheers for Saathi.”

Saathi – Inauguration to new lives

- By Sachi Singhal and Meghna Bhasin

It is everyone’s hope to be able to do charity work and some good to the society, but, on the 17th of December, 2009, this hope was turned into reality.
Under Carmel Convent’s initiative, an NGO, or as we proudly say ‘our’ NGO, namely Saathi was inaugurated in Government Model High School – 52 on the 17th of December, 2009 by his Excellency Gov. Gen. S.F. Rodriguez and Home Secretary Mr. Ram Niwas.
The average man is on the whole content and also blissfully ignorant of the strife of those who are not as fortunate as himself. However, it is the society’s responsibility, our responsibility to uplift them.
This is where Saathi comes into action. This NGO is special because it is by the students, for other students and completely comprises of students. We aim to send these 300 students under our care into mainstream schooling, where they can have an equal opportunity to display their talents and complete their education at a level which fully matches that of the more privileged.
The first task that came into our hands was collecting a stunning amount of Rs. 45,000 which would be utilized to buy the required sweaters for the students under our care. Within two days, we crossed our benchmark with the help of all our generous contributors.
Also, organizing a whole inaugurating function was no piece of cake, but under Punita Ma’am’s guidance, we, as First Lady Jean Rodriguez kindly quoted, pulled off the show spectacularly. Both the Governor and the Home Secretary provided us with food for thought through their insightful and encouraging speeches.
Cheenat, a member of Saathi shares his experience with us, saying, “Looking at the delighted smiles of all the kids was a reward in itself!”
Saathi is now an integrated part of our lives. This is not a pass time, it is a mission, a responsibility and this is just the start.

PARTNERSHIP INITIATIVE PROGRAMME

By – Sachi Singhal
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Society, Chandigarh, with the hardcore determination and philanthropic efforts of Gen. Dr. Rodriguez (Governor of Punjab), and Mr. Ram Niwas (Home Secretary, Chandigarh), hence by gave way to their brain child, the partnership initiative programme, providing education to 9000 under deprived children across the city.
On the formal meet of all the involved NGOs of the respective AIE centres (Alternative Innovative Education centres) this Tuesday, Mr. Ram Niwas and Gen. Dr. Rodriguez interacted with them, proceeding over the various concerned issues, the needs and demands, the progress, etc. A very dedicated and jolly natured man, Mr. Niwas told us about how they cover regular medical check ups, adequate clothing for all, actually tasty mid day meals, among many other things for these children, fitting them in their network of more than 200 concerned NGOs.
In his speech, he also stated that,” The first time he saw these kids, one of them had dirt smeared on his face, some hadn’t bathed for a week, and many hadn’t seen the face of a meal in ages.” But as we looked at the students studying sincerely, wishing us a very pleasant good afternoon, and looking like well behaved, normal school children, we were left wondering if that is actually possible… But yes, where there is a will there is a way, and both our respected governor and home secretary are living examples of this saying.
In his speech, Gen. Dr. Rodriguez, showing us the real side of our City Beautiful, related that, “No amount of rituals will make you a divine or a holy person, only doing good deeds will do so. And this society can be made better by just giving an hour or so of your week in serving the needy, donating all you don’t need but is in a good condition, and helping us in smooth and efficient functioning of these activities. And all those who have problems, bring them to us, and we’ll find solutions for them. Its our responsibility to give back the society more than what we have taken from it, and that’s what will make us a better human being.”
After these immensely passionate but at the same time completely truthful speeches, we moved towards departing, when we met an ailing lady who had come from all the way to Jammu to make the completion of her daughter’s education possible, whose situation greatly moved us, and we have made arrangements for providing her daughter with proper education as well as secure lodgings. With tears full of gratitude, she was very thankful and went back home with a happy heart and a content mind.
This experience actually touched our hearts and left us wondering about all the other ailing people in the society, and how we could be of help to them.
This function made us aware, about the ugly and ignorant side of the City Beautiful, about the determination of our leaders to make it better and how we are to become a part of this beautiful organization.:)

HOLINESS IS FROM WITHIN

By - Sachi Singhal
Bells ringing, bhajans blasting from enormous speakers, ladies singing all night, ending with a lavish 5 course meal for 200 odd people, who are there just to have free food….No this is not a festival scenario, but a scene straight out of the jagraata organized by Mrs. A, who has kept this to “please” God, by singing out His praises all night, and giving modest donations to the main singers, namely “Rama company and Co. – we make a jagraata unforgettable.”
Don’t we see such scenarios every other day, where fat wealthy ladies like to splash money in order to “please” god all the offerings and those off-tune bhajans ... making herself a public nuisance, as their neighbor’s daughter has an entrance exam tomorrow, and cannot study, and no car can pass that street, because it has been thoroughly encroached upon my the tent company – we provide tents for all jagraatas…
And there you are left wondering… Isn’t spirituality supposed to come from within…??
What happened to those people who used to meditate and pray sincerely every night, thanking Him for each day as it comes by. Have they been replaced by these show offs, who believe singing on blaring loudspeakers is holy, where as helping a poor child get food is just so “low class”…???
Holiness is a feeling, a divine pure feeling of serenity and security , which cannot be achieved through these bhajans and jagraatas, but instead come from WITHIN…
Being kind to the needy, helping those in distress, putting those going off track right back on the track, these philanthropic deeds will actually give rise to those positive serene feelings, not littering the land after hefty jagraata and bragging about just how holy and pure hearted creature you are, while running your car over a stray dog.
Be good, be honest, live your life well, and just enjoy each and every moment innocently…God could never be more pleased with you

ECHO From the ECOSOC

By Mannat Sibal



On 8th November 2009, 26 Carmelites and 23 Johnians assembled and actively participated in the first simulation of the JTP MUN’09 at the St. Johns High School, Chandigarh.
The programme kicked off with lobbing where everyone according to their committee formed blocs and alleys after which the committee started. The ECOSOC Executive Board comprised of Abhivyakti Saxena The Chair followed by Deeksha Bhardwaj the Scenario Director while Karan Singh directed the committee and Aseem Goel was the Rapporteur.
The delegates enjoyed a great esteem of knowledge as well as fun. MUN taught us to be self-confident and it brought out the best that was lying within. The delegates have got so deep with MUN that now our countries have become our identities. The delegate of Pakistan (Vardaan Arora) stated his opinion, “JTP was like living a dream, even though it went a little rough in the middle but it is still something great!”. The committee did have it s ups n downs but it ended up with a light and an informal session. I the delegate of Australia cherish each and every moment spent in the MUN and I love to recall all the Point on the Floor, The Resolutions the Unmoderated Caucuses, Personal Privileges etc.
MUN is about fun, friendship, jumping on the benches to be heard….. But not only is this it something to learn from…….. It is something MESMERIZING, KNOWLEDGEABLE and SERENE..:)
LOVE MUN FOREVER!!!

JTP MUN : An Unforgettable Experience

JTP MUN: Carmel’s initiative for training the future MUN stars
By – Sachi Singhal
Carmel and St. Johns came together for a simulation of the Model United Nations, with 26 Carmelites and 23 johnians becoming the delegates of 24 countries, debating as well as having fun at the same time.
Model United Nations is a debate on the academic front where students represent countries and discuss various matters of global concern. The agenda for our first simulation was Kyoto Protocol in the General Assembly and Mitigation of the impact of financial Crisis on trade and development in The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
The Board comprised of Pearl, Rajat, Divir, and Aditya in the General Assembly while Abhivyakti, Deeksha, Karan and Aseem chaired the ECOSOC.
Sunday, 8th November… There was constant mingling, lobbying around and formation of the two blocs, namely, Anti USA and Pro USA. The committee begun with a roll call taken by our rapporteur Divir, where each “delegate” had to answer Present, or Present and voting for their respective country, after which the real cut throat debate commenced. There we sat, young delegates buzzing with fresh energy and flowing information, itching to put forward our country’s stand. At first we were kind of docile, but as we tuned in, numberless point of orders, point of inquiries, point of information were on the floor, and their was our session
With the help of chits, which were passed through messengers (namely Akshay, Ashish and Arpan)the blocs came on mutual decisions for the main aim of each committee, i.e., landing on solutions acceptable to all countries. After discussing countries’ stands on Kyoto Protocol, various moderated and unmod caucuses were passed, in which we discussed various matters in further details. Finally, the committee was adjourned for lunch, and the blocs got together to discuss solutions. In the unmoderated caucus that followed, working papers made and ready to be voted upon (we didn’t make draft resolutions this time), Sarthak (El Salvador) and Harjasleen (Iraq) on one team and Anekant (UK), Meghna (USA), Srajit (Korea) and myself (Burkina Faso) on the other, and after discussions and amendments, voting begun.
The second resolution, namely our resolution, passed by 80% votes.
And with this our committee was adjourned and we walked out of the classroom with a strange kind of happiness accompanied with a sense of accomplishment, that yes, we are officially MUNers. Collecting outside the classrooms with our friends and other fellow students, we discussed about our whole unforgettable day, and with Arpan’s rocking drumming, our unexplainably interesting, enjoyable and too great to be true day came to an end. In a tête-à-tête with some of the delegates-
Ashwan Thakur, the delegate of Kuwait (GA) shares his experience,” JTP MUN was like a dream come true. Even though I felt lost in the start, I soon caught up and as I look back to that day, I feel a sense of nostalgia when I think about how we were so awed by this eye opening experience. The JTP MUN was a completely unforgettable experience.”
Meghna Bhasin, the delegate of US, further chirps in, “Quite some time has passed since out MUN was held at St. Johns. But, I still can’t shake off the habits of the Delegate of the United States. The JTP MUN was our first experience, and it was really one hell of an experience! Our Executive Board was absolutely wonderful and we kept surprising our laugh get at the witty jokes of our Chair, Rajat Jain’s witty humor. There was a bit of friction between the two blocs – Anti USA, and pro USA, and when it finally came to making our resolution papers, it was the former’s paper which was passed. Time flew before we even realized and when we departed, I felt like a more aware person; as is my vision, which had been so limited, had been broadened! All those sleepless nights spent in research had been worth it, and now I know that I definitely want to get a chance to take part in an MUN again. The fire has been lit!!”
Kanika Sehgal, the delegate of China, with a nostalgic grin, comments,”I did something I was itching to do since forever. Now that our first simulation is over, I look back and feel a rush of adrenaline pass through, along with all the good unforgettable memories which I will cherish forever. It wasn’t just all fun, but also a lot of hard work, and I gained a lot of confidence and awareness out of the simulation. Proud to be an MUNer.”

Okay so now let me make reading this post a little more clear to you –
Bloc – A group of countries, having similar needs or thoughts (just like friend circles)
Working Paper – It contains all the solutions blocs offer
Draft resolution – A more organized working paper on which voting is done
Lobbying – Making friends with ally countries
Points – Just like questions, but in a more organized manner, different points for different uses, like point of inquiry is to ask about the procedure, etc

Idea Exchange: An encounter with an Unlikely Hero 18th November 2009

by Sachi Singhal
Indian Express: Idea Exchange Programme
People from various sections of the Indian Express media team came together to interview Mr. Om Puri, one of the best and most talented gems of the Indian Cinema. A self made personality, he has given 32 years of his life to various arty as well as publicly entertaining films like Ardh Satya, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron and more recently Singh is King.
Standing perplexed between the constant milling and hustle bustle of the Indian Express team, while we all waited with bated breaths, there entered a man with a casual walk and a pleasant smile on his face, and his deep majestic voice intimidated us all. A man of jolly spirits, Mr. Puri was extremely open about his life, both personal as well as social. A self made personality, Mr. Puri also enlightened us about his childhood struggle, about how he used to pick up leftover coal bits thrown out of the engine, which he used as fuel at his home, and many other incidents which left us glassy eyed, wondering how actually did he reach his present super stardom.
With an applaudable sense of humor, he also related an incident of his comic encounter with Shabana Azmi when she exclaimed, after seeing this then struggling actor with a shaggy mane, “How dare you come to Bombay with a face like this!”
A firm believer of training and practice, Mr. Puri also related various incidents from his National School of Drama days. His good natured personality and his deep, almost extraordinarily masculine voice gripped our souls and left us gaping for breath.
His advice to all the journalists, both established as well as upcoming ones is that they are an integral part of the society, and are much needed in great numbers, provided they are considerate and sensitive about their fellow personnel and have a display a good deal of honesty. Cheers to all the journalists! And kudos to this Unlikely Hero! :)

Dr.Mahbub-Ul-Haq interschool debate'09

-By Ekakshra Mahajan & Riddhimma Shrivastava


In order to honour Dr.Mahbub-Ul-Haq the pioneer of human development programmes, the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation and the UNDP organized an Inter school debate every year. This debate has three rounds namely, The Regional Round, the National Round and the SAARC round. The 12th regional round of this debate was held on 6th October 2009 in Carmel Convent School Auditorium, Sector 9, Chandigarh. Topic provided by UNDP as per the Human Development Report this year: "Act Now to Reduce Global Warming- Poor Women have a higher stake?".Over 18 prestigious schools from the region participated.The excitement and anxiety were palpable in the auditorium as each participant took the stage.All the participants were applauded by the judges for their excellent performance The topic “Act now for global warming- poorer women at higher stake” undoubtedly went through a series of parley, discussion and debate. Most prestigious schools from the tricity took part in the debate which included Manav Mangal, DAV15, Sacred heart, Guru Nanak public school, Vivek high school, Mount Carmel, Bhavan Vidhyala, St. kabir, KBDAV, St.johns, St Stephens and Carmel convent were amongst the participants. Arshdeep of Manav Mangal started the discussion with third world countries mentioning how the poor women are extremely affected by Global Warning as they don’t have access to clean drinking water and they have to travel miles everyday. Mount Carmel quoted that we have to be a part of the revolution of resolving global warming and be the change. Sanya ojha of Vivek high school highlighted the irony of the situation where people wearing Armani suits and traveling in chauffeur driven cars complain about global warming but are least affected by global warming. Supporting the motion, she felt that poor women have no means to adapt to this unruly climatic change. Shayar Majumdar of the same school, who spoke like a veteran however felt that global warming and climate change are skateboards which keep on sliding to extreme positions. Aditya Chawla of St. Johns high school felt that the women and their families are barely able to scrape together a meager income to somehow cover expenses. Garima Yadav of Carmel Convent pointed out that women are 14% more likely to die of a disaster as compared to men. ‘It’s time to stop thinking and start acting.’ says Garima.Divir Gupta seemed quite oppressive of President Obama’s quote, ‘No nation however large or small can escape the impact of climate change.’ Chitwan singh of Bhavan Vidyalaya felt that Women must be the heart of relief efforts and rebuilding of shattered communities.
Mrs. Manjeet accompanying Shishu niketan felt that even though the competition level was very high the participants had crammed up their speeches and the "emotional touch was missing". The winners were Dav15' school's Akshay shrredhar who bagged the award for the Best Speaker For the motion category and Dav 15 also won the runners up trophy.
Gurpreet Sodhi of St. Kabir bagged the award for the Best speaker in the against motion category.Sacred Heart school bagged the overall trophy. The participants were elated.
Akshay shreedhar said,"I am very happy that my efforts have paid off." Nonica Singh, Donna Suri and Rene Singh were the judges.Nonica Singh said that content mattered the most and felt that all worked very hard all were good speakers.Ms Donna suri said that this was a great platform for students to work diligently and succeed in life.

I WANT TO GO BACK IN TIME!!! Mannat Sibal

I want to go back in time....

When 'getting high' meant,
enjoying the heights of the swing.
When drinking meant
just apple juice.
When dad was the only hero known.
When love felt in moms hug and
the worst enemies were only
our siblings!
When dads shoulder was
the highest place on Earth.
When hurt were only knees and
broken were only toys.
I want to go back in time
when goodbyes meant only till tomorrow.

Unfortunately.....
WE HAVE CHANGED
ANS SO HAS
EVERYTHING ELSE!!!

FRIENDSHIP IS THE BEST THING IN LIFE!! Mannat Sibal

Friendship is when friends push when you need it, but never too hard and they stand back when the time is right but never too far.But the true test of friendship is if you're willing to do it all back in a heartbeat. It's when your life is so much better because you know them and they bring out the best that lies within.
Friendship plays an important role in our lives No way do friends have to be exactly the same, I mean come on friends do have similarities but they also have their differences. The key to opening up the world of friendship is not just to focus on the similarities but to accept each others faults because true friends do not judge each other. Friends love unconditionally. Friends do have their little angry moments from time to time but at the end of the day all is forgiven and forgotten. Why let something that happened in the past ruin what great friendship you could have together in the future??? A true friendship has many memories, both good and bad, but all are important. When they look into our eyes they exactly get to noe that something is wrong and is bothering you and all they have to do is offer a hug and they make you feel a thousand times better. Friends can stay up all night on the phone talking for hours just because you cannot sleep and they would do anything to get that thing off your mind!!When you know that they'd never lie to you and would never hurt you and if they did you know that it would only be for your benefit. Sometimes you wonder how she knew, but then you realize that's just how close you are. They can make you laugh when skies are the darkest and they're there with a good movie and some popcorn when your totally depressed!.Have you ever noticed that when a friend is happy you find yourself happy too, even when it has nothing to do with you???To a friend I've found that nothing ever sounds stupid, funny or unbelievable and you never feel hesitant saying whatever it is and when you turn your back around you always see them standing there waiting for you to return. Don't ever loose faith in your friends, love them instead.To a friend I have found that there are many good friends around, but true best friends are hard to find easyto keep but if gone never to be seen....

The Zeal of Independence at Carmel Convent Mannat Sibal

Patriotism is in the air and with the same spirit Carmel Convent celebrates the 62nd Independence Day.
The festivities were marked with the flag hoisting ceremony by the chief guest, Father Stephan Fernandis. A parade was performed by the students of class 9 accompanied by the newly formed Carmel Band which was breath taking. Their synchronization was so astounding that it left the viewers with a deep sense of belonging towards our Nation. The students of class 8th later presented a tableau high lighting the mile stones on the road of independence of India in the fields of Agriculture, Technology and Sports. The show came to an end with a tribute to our “Kargil Heroes”and the “Mumbai Terror Attack Victims” Seeing such enthusiasm in the students Father Stephan Fernandis remarked, “Everyone has a right of freedom and today I could see it in the play which the students portrayed. The way they had shown how India developed or rather changed during these 62 years was just mesmerizing!”.
“The play was excellent and the presentation was absolutely fabulous!”, said a few sisters and teachers.
Every student now swells and says with pride, “I AM PROUD TO BE AN INDIAN.. JAI HIND!”

But I Say It Is My Dad! Mannat Sibal

Everybody says,
that if ever in our days,
we see footsteps walking,
beside our ways,
everybody says He is The One
the Almighty the creator of the Sun.
but to me today
i want to say it is my dad walking throughout
the way.
As to keep his word
I'll do anything in this world.
All he ever wants is,
love and respect.
nothing else in any other aspect.
People say that we may lead
our life,
our way but then again
I would like to say its my dad who
will guide me my way!

An awaited Encounter with Mr.Vipin Pubby By Mannat Sibal

After a long wait we got a golden opportunity to meet Mr. Vipin Pubby the Chief editor of THE INDIAN EXPRESS.
It was the end of the Golden Jubilee Year when we the reporters met Mr. Pubby. We grabbed a lot of information from him about the working of the press. I eagerly asked him, “How do you get so much information in so less time?? And how do you form the report before the time granted to you? As you could be having 4 situations at one time!!” to his reply he said, “The reporters have to be very agile and have to manage their time accordingly as mentioned above their might be 4 situations in the line but we have quite a few reporters who tackle the situation. Even if there are only one or one , they have to manage their time and complete their report and send it for printing”.

As all of us had different questions one of the reporters asked him, “What if you face a problem that there is something more important which has come up and that news has to be put up un tomorrows paper but the papers have already gone for printing?”. Mr. Pubby replied, “ if something of that sort happens we immediately stop the printing and reform the layout again and if we do stop the printing it would be only if the news has to be at the front page or it would be making the headline” i added, “is it so easy to stop the printing and just start all over again?” “Yes it is easy because printing just takes about 1 or 2 hours.” He clarified.

After this very interactive and educational session we all thanked Mr. Vipin Pubby for helping us clear our doubts. In very little time we grabbed so much from him that we respect all the journalists of the country who put themselves in an situation in which we normal people would never want to be.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AN "ECHO" REPORTER

BY EKAKSHRA MAHAJAN

A day in the life of an “ECHO” REPORTER

ECHO literally might mean the repetition of sound for many.

But for all MUNers {model United Nations} it just stands for

The rocking magazine, that updated everyone on what was

Happening in every committee. Our day usually used to start

with a backup team accompanying the conference staff and the

ECHO people to CII or PHD chambers {the place where it was held}

This was one magazine where anyone could be criticized, anything

Could be reported, and any picture could be taken with a

“Not so nice caption”.

In one phrase it was a “rules are meant to be broken”

Kind of a magazine.

Our team, which had to represent the HRC committee,

Comprised of vasundhara and me and Trust me, it used to take us an hour just

to think of a suitable Starting and the rest just followed.

After all, if it began with factual details would we get many readers?

[Take yourself in this situation]

The usual thing that we experienced in those three days

Were the bewildered looks of the delegates whose either chits

had been reported or their malevolent practices.

Take for example the case of the delegate who was

representing New Zealand in our committee. Well she

was so shocked to see her yawning picture in the issue,

with a head turner caption that it seemed that her next

step would be to murder us. {lol;}

However the best thing which we can never forget

were the fake chits that we used to pass on to the delegates.

Like, we sent a chit to the delegate of Pakistan saying

“ I love your ideas. Would you go on a date with me”

Anonymous. {lol;}

And guess what? Instead of replying back and making

Use of such an interesting opportunity he reported it

To the rappoteur. Oh and I forgot to mention we had

Been asked to do all this “ natunki” by the executive board itself.

{Seriously}

God! What an interesting ex. Board we had. The chair’s “pataka”

The rapporteur’s “bebo” everything was just so remarkable.

The chair sent a chit to the delegate of India saying “ yummy

Yummy desi boy” which left a stagnant look on his the

Delegate’s face as he Expected the conference to be a decent one.

Everything was just too good to be true.

The last day was however the one to be cherished where

The ex. Board as well as the delegates danced and showcased

Their capabilities irrespective of who were their allies or friends.

It was thus a lifetime experience, which I would never forget.

But then it is a part of life that “good things come and go” and one can’t

Keep chasing them. So let’s just wait for the next MUN…

Until then this reporter wishes you a happy and gleeful

ASTANA-VISTA.