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I Impact India

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I Impact India, a CSR Consultancy started up by DU Students, successfully completed its first innovative social campaign with the support of Rotary Club of Delhi, ‘This Valentine’s, Spread Love to those in Need!’ I Impact India is the brainchild of three socially committed individuals who have carried out social service in their individual capacities but now wish to robe in Corporations and philanthropists for countering such issues on a large scale and provide benefits to them in return. The social entrepreneurs uploaded a video on YouTube, which was aimed at highlighting & sensitizing the viewers about the social issues of today. Towards the end of the video, they promised to donate packets of biscuits equivalent to the number of views on that video. “Our idea is to provide Value for Charity through such Innovative Cause Related Marketing Solutions which would lead to positive brand image and simultaneously help in eradicating social ills,” said Parneet Chopra, the co founder of the organisation. Adit Grover, a part of the I Impact founding trio, stated that the aim of taking the campaign online was to reach out to as many people possible, creating a stong impact and making everyone feel involved in making a difference.

As per the success of the campaign, the team members celebrated their Valentine’s Day by distributing over 7,000 biscuit packets to kids of Kusumpur Pahari slum. The kids had a great time and marked the spirit of the day by indulging in hand printing, flying balloons and relishing their biscuits. According to volunteers Aabia and Lovejot, “The video was inspiring but seeing those smiling faces was even more satisfying.”

“We have upcoming projects in the field of Sanitization, Women Empowerment and Child Development. Effective & Efficient utilization of funds and core competencies can surely help eradicate these problems,” said Onkar Khullar, another founder of I Impact.

To watch the video, click the link below-

(http://bit.ly/1pack1view)

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Events

Delhi Dance Fever, an Initiative by Twissha Cultural Educational Society

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Delhi Dance Fever is an event organized by Twissha Cultural Educational Society with Big Dance Centre. The aim of Twissha Cultural Educational Society is not only to cultivate the culture of dance far and wide, but also to use it as a medium to spread awareness and address social issues. This extravaganza every year brings dancers from all over Delhi on a common platform. Here, you get to taste the perfect blend of different dancing styles along with some unique flavour added every time.

The first round termed as “FIRST IMPRESSION” was a two-day episode, held on the 11th Jan and 12th Jan 2013, and a fantastic opening to DDF with North and South Campus teams performing on different days. The teams were given songs two days prior to the first round. In spite of this little twist, the teams left everyone speechless with their terrific performances and creativity. The esteemed judges were Meiyang Chang (actor, reality show star), Karan Kumar (choreographer, Dance India Dance star) and Shemoni Parekh, Choreographer, So You Think You Can Dance, USA. The episode got even better when popular choreographers like Meher Malik, Atul and Karan, Manik, Shraey and Kartik, Abhinaya and many others from different genres of dance took classes for contemporary, lyrical jazz, hip-hop, belly etc. The active participation of dancers in the first round explains the rich culture of dance in Delhi.

Now, after the first round, the second round is much awaited. The second round is scheduled to take place in Hansraj College on the 15th February, where all choreography societies will come up with a flash mob, that’s based on their production. In the second round, teams show off their main production. Usage of props and lyrics are not allowed. Teams will use only a chart to present their theme in the beginning.

The next round will take place in IP College on the 21st February, where North and South Campus teams will come together and compete. What makes this round interesting is that, western and choreography teams will combine and perform on various offsite locations. An excellent fusion of different dancing styles is anticipated. Later, North and South Campus compete for the title, by forming two montages respectively on a theme decided on mutual agreement. The results will be declared on the same day.

The final round will be held tentatively on the 27th Feb. in Shri Ram College of Commerce, where western dance teams show off their electrifying performances. This round challenges them to perform in a particular theme given, within a time limit of 2 minutes.

DDF this year has also come up with a new initiative of holding an award function post the event. Various nominations and awards will be given to the teams, dancers, backstage members etc. A new idea of adding a ‘People’s Choice’ award is very exciting. The team that gets maximum likes on YouTube will be awarded with the title.

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Campus Central

Finance and Investment Cell, Hindu College presents Enigma 2013

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The Finance and Investment Cell, Hindu College is conducting its inaugural fest, Enigma 2013. Combining elements from Economics, Finance, Politics, Psychology, Quizzing, Logic, Analysis and Social Science, the Fest presents to you a set of completely unique events that will take you on a roller coaster ride through a variety of challenging rounds that will test your ability to think, balance and act a wide range of options, each seeming tougher than the next! Enigma is slated to take place on 18th and 19th February, 2013, from 10 am to 2 pm (both days). Registrations for the same are both online and on-the-spot. Enigma 2013 boasts of cash prizes worth Rs 10,000 per event. Apart from that, the first 100 online registrants get an assured prize as well! Here are 4 headline events scheduled to take place during the Fest: Breaking the Bank: 18th February, 11 am (http://goo.gl/4KL90) A financial thriller with a psychological twist. Need we say more? The Great Indian Tamasha: 18th February, 10 am (http://goo.gl/yTn5y) Tests your ability form alliances, negotiate and defeat your political opponents through sheer boldness, analysis and a dash of cunning. Dungeons and Dragons: 19th February, 11 am (http://goo.gl/ao5E9) It takes the brave, bold fast thinkers to see the glory of the final round and the enticing prize at the very end. The Balancing Act: 18th February, 12 pm (http://goo.gl/emfE3) You step into the shoes of the Finance Minister and face the tough choices he faces. The balance between fiscal responsibility, growth, social welfare and political goodwill lead to a fast-paced game with ever changing variables. Visit their official website for any other details about the fest: http://fic-hindu.com/  ]]>

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Features

Sugraahi- Winds Of Change

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Charlie from ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ (a novel by Stephen Chobosky) very rightly says, “We are who we are for a lot of reasons. And maybe we’ll never know most of them. But even if we don’t have the power to choose where we come from, we can still choose where we go from there. We can still do things. And we can try to feel okay about them”. In today’s world, a lot can and should be improved. And we, the people, have the power to affect real change. What most of us lack is the sensitivity to our surroundings. We need to broaden our minds and learn to understand and appreciate the attitudes, feelings and circumstances of others.  In the spirit of this, Parivartan, the social service society of Sri venkateswara College, is hosting an NGO MELA -SUGRAAHI on 12th February 2013 in the front lawn of the college campus.

Representatives from various organizations and NGOs are coming to interact with students regarding their work. All the organizations will put up stalls and open up registrations, distribute pamphlets and manage various activities. Members of Parivartan have been volunteering with many of these organizations such as Friends Organization (works for the rights of the differently abled), Green Peace India and Sweccha (work for environmental causes/awareness), Dil Se (provides shelter homes to street children), BloodConnect (a student run organization that organizes blood donation camps across NCR), The Leprosy Mission (works for people suffering from leprosy) and National Association of Blind (works in regard with blind students). Other organizations that are coming include Yuvati (works for empowerment of women), Grameen Foundation (works for empowerment of women in rural India), Deeksha (works for the environment), Udayan Care, Goonj (both work to uplift kids without basic necessities) and Make a Difference (spreads education to kids). NGO MELA- SUGRAAHI a great oppoutunity for students from all over DU to interact with and become a part of such organizations and start affecting change.

The day starts with the inaugural ceremony at 10:00am with an address by the Chief Guest, Mr. Harsh Mander, an Indian social activist and a writer. At present, he is the convener of ‘Aman Biradari’ which works for secularism, peace and justice. His writings includes a collection of essays ‘Unheard voices: Stories of Forgotten Lives’ and Fear and Forgiveness: The Aftermath of Massacre (2009) among other works.

The day follows with events and competitions and you are sure to find something that’s right up your ally. There are going to be a number of skits and dance performances by kids from the various NGOs and organizations from 10:30am to 12:30pm. You won’t be able to help being won over by these. For all those up for a bit of a challenge, the fun kicks off with a photography competition at 9:00 am. This is followed by a kite flying competition starting at 11:00 am. Other events include face painting (12:30 pm onwards). To top it all, there’s a blood donation camp that’s going to be held from 10:00 am onwards. in foyer of college. Here’s your chance to really do something and help someone in need. And what is a MELA without food! Don’t worry, there are going to be enough opportunities for food, games and fun.

Hopefully by the end of the day, with our hearts  a little lighter, we will all have become a little more receptive to the world around us, ready to “do things.”

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Campus Central

Shri Ram Economics Summit 2013

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8th and 9th February saw SRCC become a hub of everything economics-related. The Shri Ram Economics Summit, put together by the Economics Society of the college was characterized by speaker sessions by eminent people from the field of business and economics to competitions that were held to test the economic prowess of interested students. On Friday, the campus was graced by Mr. C.M. Rangarajan, Chairman of Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India, who spoke at length about current macroeconomic policies in India. With him C.P Chandrasekhar Microeconomist and professor, JNU also had to be there but didn’t turn up. Mr Rangarajan enlightened the crowd about capital flows in India. The same day and the same venue also witnessed the arrival of Mr. Ashok Gulati, Chairman of Commision for Agricultural Costs and Prices, who expressed his views on the “Elusive quest for growth in agriculture”.  “1% growth in agriculture is more effective in reducing poverty than growth in any other sector of the economy.”, said Mr. Gulati fervently.  He also spoke extensively on China’s exemplary economic growth that rests largely on its flourishing agriculture. In the evening session of the summit a panel discussion was organised with Mythili Bhushnurmath a consulting Editor of The Economic Times and Reetika Khera, a social activist and professor of Economics, IIT Delhi. On Saturday, the day began with Mr. D.K Kumar  enlightening the students about the importance of CSR in the corporate sector. He gave the examples of several known brands and conglomerates that have now understood the importance of CSR and are working towards making it an important element of their success. Alongside, a number of events took place, like Paper presentation, a debate on Macroeconomic policy and a short film making competition which had enthusiastic students participating in good numbers. Aishwarya Chaurasia            &    Vatsala Gaur [email protected]         [email protected]]]>

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Features

Make a Difference(MAD)-Girls Camp

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Make A Difference (MAD) Delhi hosted its first Dream Camp for girls at Chattravas shelter home in East of Kailash this weekend. As the name suggests, the purpose of the camp was to motivate the children to dream bigger – aim higher. It was meant to encourage them to think about their future, set tasks for themselves and work hard towards achieving their goals.

Catering to 136 girls, the day started with a treasure hunt. Filled with puzzles and games, it was a great way to get the girls excited about the day. The first event of the day was a motivational talk by Dr. Mukesh Sethia, who told them various stories and taught them how to deal with day-to-day problems like stress, anger, hopelessness, etc.

Following this was a very interesting talk by Wing Commander Anupma Monga, who talked to the girls about her own life, how she decided to join the Air Force, what all challenges she faced, and how she overcome them. The girls were inspired by her story; they wanted to know more about their future options, especially in the government and defence forces. After this, people from the Corporate Executive Board came, who told them about various other professions such as singing, dancing, art, etc. They encouraged the students to think about entrepreneurship; each of them was made to think of an idea for a business they would want to start.

It was not all talk and no show; the talks were followed by the event Limitless Ramp organised by NIFT, who enlightened the girls about careers in the fashion industry. The girls were divided into groups and told to design a costume for their ‘MAD teacher’. Once their design was complete, they were given some fake currency, and told to buy materials from a market that had been set up in the room, and make the costume. The girls were ecstatic! The day didn’t end here. They had a Cultural Extravaganza, where they were taught about other countries: their language, their food, their dresses, etc. The last event of the day was AD MAD – where the girls made products about of waste material and advertised it for sale through a jingle.

The event was a great success, and the girls wanted a camp every month. A couple of them talked about joining the police, doing computer design and becoming a teacher, etc. The dream camp lived up to its name – it helped the girls realise that dreams can come true. A round of applause to the entire team of MAD!

 

Adita Bhatia
[email protected]

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News

DU Marksheets go MIA

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They are calling it the case of the missing marksheets. Well, not quite literally. But certain administrative lapses in Delhi University and its colleges are surely jeopardizing some students’ prospects. These lapses involve marksheets, which still haven’t been received by enrolled students of the annual mode and re-evaluation results, both of which have dampened the future prospects of third year students in several colleges.

Take the case of Shanti Kapoor*, a History Honours student at a prominent college on campus. Her ordeal began with her second year result’s announcement, and continued until last week. Due to a discrepancy in her marks on the first marsheet she received, she was made to forfeit almost half of her third year.

She was disallowed to attend classes in the third year until she officially passed her second year, due to a re-evaluation result that refused to come out until mid-December. And even then, she was lucky to have found out through a friend who happened to chance upon a list on her college notice board. The authorities did not bother to inform her directly.
She says, “It was terrible. I was lucky that my friend saw my name on the list of re-evaluation results that were out. But that wasn’t the end; I had to complete so many more administrative formalities until I was finally granted re-admission. I had to waste more than half of my third year for no fault of my own, and the laxity of the University. I hope no one else is made to go through this.”

While hers is one of the exceptional tragic cases, an acute problem being faced by students since time immemorial is the late issuance of marksheets. While the results are declared by late July-early August, the marksheets come much later. This derails the aspirations of numerous students keen on applying for further studies abroad, as they don’t have the relevant academic credentials to demonstrate to universities for the process.

Says Vandana Sharma* of another well-known college, “We only received our marksheets for second year in December, by which time several deadlines were over. We had to get unofficial transcripts made from the college, and explain our plight to universities abroad. It was not pleasant.”
This issue seems to be another one of the several glitches that the University needs to fix before the start of the ambitious revamp of a 4-year degree next academic year onward.

*Names have been changed on request

Tanya Dua
[email protected]

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Bazinga

Bazinga

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Following her recent string of high-profile relationships, including a romance earlier this week with Garfield cartoonist Jim Davis, singer-songwriter Taylor Swift is now dating Suri Cruise, sources confirmed today. “Taylor and Suri were seen grabbing lunch at a Thai restaurant in SoHo earlier this afternoon, and we can confirm that the two are now officially an item,” TMZ reporter Allison Raeber wrote of the budding romance between the 23-year-old pop star and the 6-year-old daughter of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, nicknaming the couple “Saylor.” “Fans spotted the two holding hands on the way out of the restaurant, and Taylor was even seen giving Suri a quick peck on the lips before getting into a car.” At press time, sources reported that Swift had just entered Cruise’s apartment building in downtown Manhattan.

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Campus Central

Venky Disabled Unfriendly?

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Another example of the callous attitude of the administration at Sri Venkateswara College was seen on 21st January. Few manholes were opened up for routine maintenance purposes; however, these were left uncovered for a long time with no sign to warn passersby. Due to this careless attitude, a handicapped person almost fell into one. The person, shocked and enraged, went to complain about the same to the Vice Principal, Dr. Rajinder Kumar, who is also currently the acting Principal. The victim was mistreated by the administration staff, including the Vice Principal following which he was forced to call the police.

The college administration and Vice Principal Dr. Kumar have both been infamous for their unfriendly attitude towards students, which seems to have hit a new low. What is surprising is that amidst all this and even after the college’s ‘routine maintenance work’, one of the manholes continued to overflow this morning. The leaking manhole was situated in front of the various course counters, where students deal with the admin staff on a day-to-day basis. However, the response is mostly on those days when Mishra Ji and his colleagues are in a mood to deal with students. The incident that took place at Venky is just another example of how the administrative staff at most DU colleges treats its students, despite repeated complaints.

 

(Writer does not wish to be named)

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Campus Central

Seminar on Indian Literature as Comparitive Literature

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Professor Didier  Coste of Bordeaux University, France, conducted the seminar on “Indian Literature as Comparative Literature” at Bharati College on 14th January, 2013. Comparative literature is the study of literature and other cultural expressions across linguistic and cultural boundaries. Dr. Chandra Mohan, Secretary General of Comparative Literature Association of India, chaired the seminar that was attended by  Students and teachers of B.A. English Honours.

Dr. Promodini Varma, the principal of the college, briefly introduced Professor Coste and Dr. Chandra Mohan. Prof. Coste began by explaining how he came across Indian literature in 1974. He elaborated on how he “was a young man of the 1960s, the time of the hippies,” and supporting his statement was his psychedelic sweater that attracted many listeners’ attention.  He was liked instantly by the young crowd.

He began his talk on Modern Indian literature being a heterogeneous literature due to the numerous languages in India. Professor Coste expressed concern over how Indian literature was considered modern only when written in English. According to him, Indian literature is all-embracing, non-specific and complex. It can also be confusing and contradictory due to the many traditions of different regions and their languages in India.

 

Prof. Coste points out that modern Indian literature uses old stories, myths, epics and fables, such as the conclusion of The Guide by R. K. Narayan. He states that the way to make sense of the mystical aspect of Indian writing is not the validity, but knowing the structure.

The talk was ended with a summary given by Dr. Mohan. He said that Indian literature is based on the concept of cultural plurality and comes naturally to us because of our multilingual aspect. He also said that translation is very important, as it goes very well with the inter-culturality.

In the end, teachers and students asked questions and gave their comments regarding the talk. As one of the answers, the speakers said that Indians usually know three languages, their mother tongue, the national language and an international language, while the citizens of most other countries are mono-linguistic. The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks to the speaker and chairperson.

Rajni Gupta, a student, felt that “The talk was intended to enlighten one and all, but Prof. Coste ended up striking a chord only with the teachers and as for the students, we ended up feeling obfuscate”.

Mrs. Mukti Sanyal, lecturer of English, commented that “It was surprising to know that trends in literature sometimes grow autonomously at the same time, in different places. Modern Indian writers are returning to historical novels, and there is a sense of continuity”. She also said that Prof. Coste was engaging and had such a vast amount of knowledge that the one hour was not enough for him to present all his views.

 

Shreya Mudgil
[email protected]

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