Back to School

By Rhea Mary Rao
St. Joseph's Academy
So, back to school? Or, is it almost time?
School means getting up early in the morning, studying regularly, sleeping on time, lot less fun and a little more sincerity.
Not bad! Guess you guys are ready for it!
School, however, is not just about boring stuff. It also means meeting friends, learning from teachers and learning with our class mates. Soon, you will start with exams, so you all must start studying for them. Most are probably very excited about school reopening, since you would be busy again, with a hectic schedule and won’t get bored. Somehow, if you talk to the elders, all of them feel that school life was the best time of life. One realises this only when it is over. You all will realise it, too! This week, many of you have written interesting pieces. All of you have shared your excitement at joining school again. This shows how much you love your school. Next week's theme are the Defense Forces. Tell us what you feel about the Navy, Air Force and Army. Share with us your opinion about defending India, and if you have any intentions of joining the Forces. You may also write about things you like about the Armed Forces and what you would wish to change. We The Kids will take out its 50th issue in August. You may all write about We The Kids and send it to us. Tell us how much you like the paper and what more you want in it. So start thinking and submit it to us by the first week of August.

Loads of Love,
Aastha

Did you know?

By Rushil Jain
Summer Valley School
Test Cricket History of India
*1st Test- 25/06/1932 played 421 test matches, won 95, lost 136, 187 drawn and once a tie.
Highest individual innings- 319 runs by Virendra Sehwag versus S.A at Chennai, 07-08
• Maximum runs- Sachin Tendulkar- 11,877 runs.
• Best beating average- 54.23 by Sachin
• Best Bowling ( innings)- Anil Kumble
• Most career wickets- 616 by Anil Kumble
• Most career catches- 176 by Rahul Dravid
• Best bowling average- 28.71 by B.S Bedi
• Highest team innings- 705 for 7 vs. Australia at Sydney in 2003-04
• Highest run chase- 406/4 wickets vs. West Indies at Spain in 1975-76

It's time to repack your bags....!

The kind of scorching summer Doon is experiencing this year, it would be a good idea to extend the summer vacations of junior section of schools for a few weeks. Nevertheless, even if they have to return I am sure the teacher’s would emphasize on the safety measures they must take, like sipping lots of clean water and not doing strenuous physical work outs under energy sapping harsh sunlight.
I think vacations play a crucial role in rejuvenating students both physically as well as on mental level. As the name suggests both winter as well as summer vacations protect youngsters from extreme weather conditions, and Doon valley experiences both in ample measures, this break also gives then rest from continuous pressure of studies, and gives them an opportunity to go for an outing to other places, come to think of it, it’s not only the students but teacher’s as well who welcome this breather and change, so by the time the vacations come to a close it is ‘Guru’ as well as the students who are fresh as daisy and raring to go!
When we go on vacation, we get an opportunity to see new place, culture, weather and surroundings, and do things that are not part of our drained and boring routine. If we choose a vacation where physical activity is encouraged, like trekking, rafting etc it not only adds to our confidence but also sets the adrenaline flowing.
The vacations as well as holidays to other places also gives us an opportunity to get away from TV for some time( I generally try to ‘check-in’ a hotel that does not have idiot’s box in its room’s, much to the annoyance to the rest of the family!) Solitude can also recharge tired grey cells, that is why spa’s and resorts promote quite surroundings. If the kind of work you do is people-related where you spend eight to ten hours a day talking to people on the phone, this lack of ‘noise pollution is welcome. The constant communication with people could burn you out because you don’t have much time to think inwards. Taking a vacation at places that are far from the maddening crowds, where you can enjoy your own company can make you imitate about how fortunate you are to be in the company of friends and strangers during the daily grind of our lives.
Another important factor of vacations is revealed in that old saying – ‘All work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy’. Our work defines us, but we need to define and differentiate between what is work and what is play. Let the money you’ve earned work for your recreation, Splurge and pamper yourself and your family, but do stay within your means, after all these are recession hit times!
So just few days of vacations left, complete your homework, polish your shoes, pack your new bags and get ready to hit your classes with a vengeance, after all doing well in your school is something that is of utmost importance, it gives you new levels of self esteem and recognition and respect from your peers. Go get it!!

Greenery & Fresh Wind: Leechees

By Anant Aggarwal,(XI) Brightlands School

‘Leechees’; ‘ Greenery’, in Doon Valley ! It reminds us and friends, also, for these fruits and its honey, also.The litchi trees start flowering in January; I like the fragrance, during February-end, every-year! The Valley is inviting for the tourists, in May-end / June-beginning; the best Leechees; attracting all, fragnant fruits, rosy / red / scarlet color; sweetest and yummy! I am surprised (!); invite the bees; who informs them! Would the trees have been inviting the bees, from the plains; during March; travelling to this Valley, in carvans of bees, across Shiwalik Range, the oldest mountains! The bees, also, during March, have to find-out the best trees, preparing the best honey-combs, for the best honey; organized by them-selves only, under the over-all supervision of the Queens! The best workers, the bees and sincerely laborers, would be making their own bee-hives, on safest trees, hidden by darkest leaves! After all, the bees protect their honey-combs, honey and the owners of the orchards, also! Doon Valley was covered by leechees, abundant trees, especially Dalanwala branches (!); interesting, to keep it’s a name, of the locality, by the Britishers, about two centuries ago!); Rajpur Road, the best road; surrounded, also, by the trees; sprawling houses; sitting below the trees. The lands, across the Chakrata Road, south-side, was covered with leechees. During last few years, beautiful trees have been vanishing / disappearing (!), every year! 55% trees are lost; available, only 45%, presently! Gradually, the trees are disappearing! It is ‘natural’ (!); to the vendors, only; selling of the property; on exorbinant prices, in Doon Valley! How are managing to cut the trees; banning the leechees! Last, some evening, they were seeing the leechees; next morning, they ‘were’ vanished, immediately! Can laymen treat the magic! Most people of Dehradun, may be understanding the Remote Sensing(!); after all students studied Remote Sensing, in this Institute, from various countries: Africa; Asia, including Western, Central, Eastern and Far-eastern countries, including own country. I am sorry; the administrative officers are not using the Remote Sensing! At least of the three Government Agencies, Central and State, have been spreading Remote Sensing! It pains us; they are teaching or learning, the latest technologies! Right below, under ‘light’, the ‘expert eyes’; WOULD NOT LEARN; latest methods! We have been talking, during the symposiums, conferences, trainings and work-shops, about Remote Sensing, every-year; about chlorophyll, greenery, trees; CO2; Green-living, Forests & Jungles; Rains; Discussing the increase of temperatures of the Globe; Mercilessly Cutting The Trees Every Year; about the birds; eternal waters, aquifers, recharging, judicially save the water for us and great-great children ;…..; Why are we wasting, trainings of teachers / their students also, senior, with experienced and expert decisions makers; latest methods! Recently the forest department passed the order of cutting around 250 trees around the Parade ground and there was no
one to even oppose the decision.....are the people of Dehradun gone asleep.....If this were to continue that day would not be far of when Dehra Doon would turn into a total "concrete jungle".

When meeting your girlfriend's parents....

By Aishwarya Sharma
Convent of Jesus & Mary

So, you’re planning to have a sneak peak into your girl’s house. Right? To meet her mom and dad of course, isn’t it? Hmm… scared huh? Don’t really know what to do, and what to say? Well, that happens with everyone, you don’t really have to worry, I know it’s different when you meet your BFF’s parents, and completely different when you meet your girlfriend’s parents. But here’s the good news! Whenever there’s a problem, FRIENDZ help you out, whether it’s related to friends or your girlfriends. And now, a girl is there to your rescue boys, she exactly knows what a girl wants and expects when her man comes to meet her parents. Here are some smart tips you need to follow while you’re at it. Remember: when you’re meeting your girlfriend’s parents:
Don’t be a braggart!
Just stop showing off. We girls and our moms don’t need a self centered and pompous ass! Just relax, keep it simple, no need to show that you’re a stud. Her parents need to see their daughter’s boyfriend, not a terminator or something. You don’t really need to brag about how many cars you have, how big your house is, or how many mobile phones you’ve changed so far. As for us, we already know that you have the trendiest collection of shoes from Reebok, and a brand new play station 2. We know how big your house is, and that clearly doesn’t make a difference to us, nor will it to our parents. So just stop acting stupidly and keep it simple.
Don’t dress up funnily!
Please please!! We know we told you that the gladiator shirt looks amazing on you, but the truth is that for mom and dad, it will be a blighted show! Wear a simple tee without anything offensive written on it. We don’t want our parents to wonder what weirdoes we’ve brought for them to see. Just be sane enough to choose a sound dress code for yourself. No spiky hair, no heavy chains, no ripped or torn jeans, no funny logos or messages splashed on your shirt please…
Impress Dad and Help Mom oms and dads have the most amazing kind of sixth sense, especially when they beget daughters. So no unnecessary flattery please… impress our dads by being politically correct, make it sound like a world peace summit, and help out moms by setting the table, washing the dishes, and helping out with the meal. Parents like those typically homely guys who show a sense of belonging towards their girl’s house. Praise mom’s style of cooking and dad’s knowledge at football, Obama, politics, or whatever! Express whatever knowledge you have, in an impressing yet humble way.
Don’t crib about you Mom Dad’s messy ways please!!!
Dude! We really don’t care about why your dad didn’t give you the latest videogame, or you mom didn’t allow you to take the car out. Remember, there’s another set of parents you’re meeting right now, and the way you talk about your parents reflects how you think of your elders so you better not talk of how creepy your parents get sometimes... We know they do, but do you need to tell that to my parents?? No dear! Just keep your mouths shut on this; we’ll hear your set of melodrama afterwards.
Eat properly!!
According to parents, table manners reflect how the upbringing of the child is at home. So in order to make a good impression, don’t drop your food on the table, don’t make funny sounds while you’re at it, don’t offer your hand for a handshake if the blot of mucus after a sneeze is on your hands, don’t offer your food to your clothes as well [you know what I mean!!!!], just don’t be an ogre, be a well bred cool dude and it should be as if you’re having your food in front of Queen Elizabeth. Simply spick and span and impressive. We know you eat the way you do while you’re with us, but there’s a BIG difference between us and our parents boys.
Don’t be self consciouse know this makes you a little nervous and all, but along with being manageable, you need to be original. Remember, we chose you for what you are, but the fact is that for parents, first impression is the last impression, so everything has to be perfect. But also remember, don’t be fake, don’t show unnecessary style. Just be calm, cool, and inoffensive. That’s it. These guys belong to another generation, but understand us better than we do. So just keep your cool.

Back to School

By Animesh Gupta,(XI)
The Doon School

Hey kids its school time again! You’re probably feeling sad or maybe excited that the vacations have come to an end. Some kids who change their school in between they are unsure about their, new school, new teachers, new friend, and new school rules. For some days you feel that you in a world of aliens and you don’t know what you doing. But at last we are strong kids and we have to build up are confidence were ever we go and we have to impress our parents and the teachers. To help the battle of butterflies fluttering in your stomach, it might help to bring a favorite pencil or wear a special outfit on the first day.
So vacations are over guys, back to school and the old desks which are desperately waiting for your books. The school timetable is over all very exhausting. Getup early in the morning and get ready for school. Early in the morning around 8 o’clock there is assembly in which we thank god for giving us so much. So that later in life we area able to stand on our legs, after assembly we have classes in which most of the boys are sleeping. Subjects like maths and sciences are boring, but in school there are various people with different thinking and different attitude towards studies. Every child has a mindset about what he has to become in life. School is a place where we make best friends and get class’s support when ever we are in some problem. School teaches us how to co-operate and endure different type of circumstances it then helps the child and prepares him to fight for his rights when he enters the real world. School develops the child’s skill and gets out his hidden talent which is unknown to him. school has sports which then helps the child in restraining himself and gives him mental relief. Some kids take their school very lightly who then later on do not succeed in life.
School is a wonderful place. It has a huge library with different and interesting books. It provides knowledge and opens up the child’s mind. School has interesting activities like music, art, cooking etc and sports like basketball , badminton, soccer , cricket which helps In the physical development of the child’s body.
After all the hard work and physical exhaustion leep is very sweet and every passing day holds new promise for tomorrow and whenever te hard work gets too hard. There is always a consolation that winter vacations are not very long incoming.
So guys, enjoy your time and have fun.

The Eccentric Masterji

By Prabeer Sikdar
Rains had a very special role in the government run Super Kids School, where the entire roof had many football sized holes in it.
Naughty as they were, the children always waited for a reason to bunk classes. So, when Masterji’s retirement date was announced by the School Headmaster, it was like another vacation waiting to happen after summers.
For Masterji, retirement date itself was a cause of worry as he was used to a noisy life for 30 long years in Super Kids School. The present students were the children of his former students.
So, as the mischievous lot comprising Tony, Moni, Soni and Johny and other brats celebrated Masterji’s last day at school, the latter shed copious tears.
In his farewell speech, clasping the mike in both his hands, Masterji sang his favourite KL Sehgal number ‘Ek Bangla Bane Nyara’ causing commotion among the students as they did not want any repairs carried out on the School’s roof.
The next day at home, Masterji got up at his usual time of 5 a.m., and spent time doing yoga till the arrival of the newspaper boy. It was not the front page he always looked at in the morning, but the back page, which he was addicted to. He loved solving his favourite game of Sodoku.
That he had retired was yet to sink in, as he again picked up the school books after breakfast and headed to Super Kids School. Midway, realisation hit him and he walked back home.
"One retires from life, but how can they retire me from work, which I loved so dearly," sobbed Masterji, cursing the retirement system. Masterji’s lonely life, soon added to his depression.
His hair started turning grey soon and for the first time he felt old. "I am still young at heart," Masterji muttered to himself, thinking of ways to beat his loneliness.
A man without friends is like a bird without wings. But, Masterji’s case was different. Ever since he had joined school, it was the only world Masterji knew. He simply loved children, including their naughtiness, haughtiness, failings, achievements and harmless pranks. "I despised grownups, now nobody likes me," lamented Masterji, while trying to get some sleep.
Knowing well that it was difficult to put the clock back, Masterji decided to give himself a mental makeover.
The next morning, when young Sonu, son of Goluram, came to deliver the daily newspaper, Masterji greeted him with a genuine smile. Immediately, he started feeling better.
"Do you go to school," asked Masterji, as Sonu was about to leave. "No. I help my father in washing clothes at the river bank."
"Do you like to study," Masterji asked again, hoping for a chance to cure his boredom. "Yes. But we are poor and all the money I earn by distributing newspapers goes to feeding our family donkey."
Soon, in Sonu, Masterji found a reason to feel like his former self, while the young boy got an opportunity to catch up with knowledge he could not gain earlier.
"I will call you Masterji," blurted Sonu, attracting a smile from Masterji, who gifted his new student some blank notebooks and a pen.
In the beginning, things started out well. Sonu was a quick learner but Masterji again felt gloomy after his student left for home. "Yoga, Sudoku, Sonu, garden… all done, what next?" fretted Masterji, as he pondered other ways to keep himself busy for the long days and nights, everyday.
His childhood memories were not that great to recall, neither was his family life, so it was useless mulling over them all over again.
As days turned into nights and nights into days, Masterji’s restlessness grew again. Sometimes, he spent entire nights studying different patterns made by the stars in the night sky. He soon was able to identify the Orion from Ursa Major constellation, but it made little difference to his boredom. Then, one day, everything changed for Masterji.
And so did it for the people living in Bholpur village, located in sylvan surroundings atop a small hill, where time always stood still. Notorious Dakuram, the thief with a thick long black moustache, had struck the village chief’s home. He carried a reward of Rs 50 on his head.
More than the Bholpur villagers, it was the portly rustic cop Nirbhay Singh, who was more worried as more thefts in homes meant his immediate transfer from his hometown to the city, away from his children.
The following day, when Sonu sat down with his books, he narrated what had happened. "The village chief is the poorest man now as Dakuram took away everything, including the heavy copper lock that dangled from the door of his home."
Never before was Masterji under the grip of so much fear and he felt goosebumps all over his body after Sonu told me about Dakuram’s exploits. "You go home, today," Masterji told Sonu, wanting him not to know his mental state.Years ago, Masterji remembered watching a martial arts movie in the city’s theatre. "How I wish I knew Kung Fu or Karate," Masterji sighed, while trying to feel brave that day.
To prepare himself for any eventuality, he practiced some kicks, which strained his unaccustomed muscles to a great extent.
Next day, when Sonu came for his class, Masterji was groaning in pain. After helping Masterji get up from his bed, Sonu left for home.
Even after failing in his Kung Fu attempt, Masterji did not lose hope. "There has to be a way out," thought Masterji. "I will sleep in the day to remain awake at night."
(To be continued…)

Make Your Recruitment Effective

By : Hemant Kumar Kochar

Before you even think about recruiting you should stop to consider the marketing value of how you are presenting yourself. The cardinal rule to remember is : If you were hiring you, would you accept your offer ? If you wouldn’t accept the offer because it sounds bland, because it sounds non-happening, because the salary package sounds unacceptable, because the recruiter sounds uninspired about the job themselves, or for whatever reason, then you need to reevaluate your ‘sales pitch’ about the company so to speak.
Position your Company When recruiting, you are the ‘brand ambassador’ for your organization (or whichever organization you are recruiting for). Candidates and potential employees will judge the organization by the way you speak and the reflection you give of your company. After all, if you sound so unexcited about the new job, why would anyone else want to get in there and work at it?
Good Company Profile
Making yourself a company profile can work extremely well in your favor, as a potential employee you can then look through the overview of the company at their leisure and with a consistent pitch each time they are viewing it.
Do not forget Contact Details One thing that is vital not to forget is to leave behind a phone number and contact email that is in use and regularly checked. Oftentimes recruiters forget to offer contact details or even furnish the basic of basic details as to how they can be gotten in touch with again. Remember that without contact details, you cannot expect anything to take off from your last conversation. Extra tidbits for a lasting impression When making a company profile, avoid using extra special fonts, fancy graphics and unreadable text settings such as lighter colors, etc. The aim of the company profile is to say in a concise and corporate way the essence of what you want to say to the candidate about the company in as exciting a way as possible (still sounding corporate) so as to make them join your ‘cause’ and therefore your organization.
And finally, adding a nice banner with a touch of color and or graphics to the company logo and heading of page can go a long way in catching the attention of the viewer. Do let us know your views and share more tips for effective recruitment with other readers,
Write in to me at : kochar.hemant@gmail.com

Beating recession by nostalgia in FMCG products

By Kartikeya Semwal
What are Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)?
Products which have a quick turnover, and relatively low cost are known as Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG). FMCG products are those that get replaced within a year. Examples of FMCG generally include a wide range of frequently purchased consumer products such as toiletries, soap, cosmetics, tooth cleaning products, shaving products and detergents, as well as other non-durables such as glassware, bulbs, batteries, paper products, and plastic goods. FMCG may also include pharmaceuticals, consumer electronics, packaged food products, soft drinks, tissue paper, and chocolate bars. Subsets of FMCGs are Fast Moving Consumer Electronics which include innovative electronic products such as mobile phones, MP3 players, digital cameras, GPS Systems and Laptops. These are replaced more frequently than other electronic products. White goods in FMCG refer to household electronic items such as Refrigerators, T.Vs, Music Systems, etc. In 2005, the Rs. 48,000-crore FMCG segment was one of the fast growing industries in India. According to the AC Nielsen India study, the industry grew 5.3% in value between 2004 and 2005.
Indian FMCG Sector
The Indian FMCG sector is the fourth largest in the economy and has a market size of US$13.1 billion. Well-established distribution networks, as well as intense competition between the organized and unorganized segments are the characteristics of this sector. FMCG in India has a strong and competitive MNC presence across the entire value chain. It has been predicted that the FMCG market will reach to US$ 33.4 billion in 2015 from US $ billion 11.6 in 2003. The middle class and the rural segments of the Indian population are the most promising market for FMCG, and give brand makers the opportunity to convert them to branded products. Most of the product categories like jams, toothpaste, skin care, shampoos, etc, in India, have low per capita consumption as well as low penetration level, but the potential for growth is huge. The Indian Economy is surging ahead by leaps and bounds, keeping pace with rapid urbanization, increased literacy levels, and rising per capita income.
The big firms are growing bigger and small-time companies are catching up as well. According to the study conducted by AC Nielsen, 62 of the top 100 brands are owned by MNCs, and the balance by Indian companies. Fifteen companies own these 62 brands, and 27 of these are owned by Hindustan Lever. Pepsi is at number three followed by Thums Up. Britannia takes the fifth place, followed by Colgate (6), Nirma (7), Coca-Cola (8) and Parle (9). These are figures the soft drink and cigarette companies have always shied away from revealing. Personal care, cigarettes, and soft drinks are the three biggest categories in FMCG. Between them, they account for 35 of the top 100 brands.
THE TOP 10 COMPANIES IN FMCG SECTOR
S. NO. Companies
1. Hindustan Unilever Ltd.
2. ITC (Indian Tobacco Company)
3. Nestlé India
4. GCMMF (AMUL)
5. Dabur India
6. Asian Paints (India)
7. Cadbury India
8. Britannia Industries
9. Procter & Gamble Hygiene and Health Care
10. Marico Industries
The companies mentioned in Exhibit I, are the leaders in their respective sectors. The personal care category has the largest number of brands, i.e., 21, inclusive of Lux, Lifebuoy, Fair and Lovely, Vicks, and Ponds. There are 11 HLL brands in the 21, aggregating Rs. 3,799 crore or 54% of the personal care category. Cigarettes account for 17% of the top 100 FMCG sales, and just below the personal care category. ITC alone accounts for 60% volume market share and 70% by value of all filter cigarettes in India. The foods category in FMCG is gaining popularity with a swing of launches by HLL, ITC, Godrej, and others. This category has 18 major brands, aggregating Rs. 4,637 crore. Nestle and Amul slug it out in the powders segment. The food category has also seen innovations like softies in ice creams, chapattis by HLL, ready to eat rice by HLL and pizzas by both GCMMF and Godrej Pillsbury. This category seems to have faster development than the stagnating personal care category. Amul, India's largest foods company has a good presence in the food category with its ice-creams, curd, milk, butter, cheese, and so on. Britannia also ranks in the top 100 FMCG brands, dominates the biscuits category and has launched a series of products at various prices.
In the household care category (like mosquito repellents), Godrej and Reckitt are two players. Goodknight from Godrej is worth above Rs 217 crore, followed by Reckitt's Mortein at Rs 149 crore. In the shampoo category, HLL's Clinic and Sunsilk make it to the top 100, although P&G's Head and Shoulders and Pantene are also trying hard to be positioned on top. Clinic is nearly double the size of Sunsilk. Dabur is among the top five FMCG companies in India and is a herbal specialist. With a turnover of Rs. 19 billion (approx. US$ 420 million) in 2005-2006, Dabur has brands like Dabur Amla, Dabur Chyawanprash, Vatika, Hajmola and Real. Asian Paints is enjoying a formidable presence in the Indian sub-continent, Southeast Asia, Far East, Middle East, South Pacific, Caribbean, Africa and Europe. Asian Paints is India's largest paint company, with a turnover of Rs.22.6 billion (around USD 513 million). Forbes Global magazine, USA, ranked Asian Paints among the 200 Best Small Companies in the World Cadbury India is the market leader in the chocolate confectionery market with a 70% market share and is ranked number two in the total food drinks market. Its popular brands include Cadbury's Dairy Milk, 5 Star, Eclairs, and Gems.
The Rs.15.6 billion (USD 380 Million) Marico is a leading Indian group in consumer products and services in the Global Beauty and Wellness space.
Outlook
There is a huge growth potential for all the FMCG companies as the per capita consumption of almost all products in the country is amongst the lowest in the world. Again the demand or prospect could be increased further if these companies can change the consumer's mindset and offer new generation products. Earlier, Indian consumers were using non-branded apparel, but today, clothes of different brands are available and the same consumers are willing to pay more for branded quality clothes. It's the quality, promotion and innovation of products, which can drive many sectors.
A Few Surprises
In a surprise development, fodder cultivation in drought-hit Rajasthan has gone up by over three times the target this Rabi season.
According to an official press note, as against the targeted 68,000 hectares, fodder cultivation had taken place in 2.26 lakh hectares of the State. This was 5.79 per cent of the total area under cultivation this Rabi season.
During the last Rabi season, fodder was grown in only 2.3 per cent of the total cultivated area in the State. According to the Government, as many as 2.91 lakh mini kits of fodder seeds were distributed to increase fodder cultivation for the cattle this season.
Rajasthan has the country’s largest cattle population.
Cygnus Fine Jewellery
has launched its latest spring-summer collection. Keeping in mind spring-summer mood Cygnus has launched the new floral designs. Delicate looking earrings, pendant sets
have been created in the best quality diamonds and gold. For that dash of color you can also find earrings with rubies and emeralds. So what are you waiting for go pick your favourite piece of jewelry and team it with a summery dress and all set up the fashion quotient.
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About Cygnus Fine Jewellery:
Cygnus Fine Jewellery was launched in July 2003; this line of high end jewellery is a renowned brand of the chain Laxmi Diamonds.
Cygnus has a range of jewellery designs which is skillfully crafted in 18k gold along with the finest choice of diamonds to suit every occasion. Their exquisite craftsmanship and state-of-the-art manufacturing technology makes each piece of Cygnus fine jewellery that clearly stands out from the rest.
Their variety of products range from rings, pendants, earrings nose pins, sets, bracelets, neck wear and bangles.
Cygnus targets adults from all age groups. Their jewellery epitomizes women with class, confidence and zeal to intimidate others. And has a range of products which could be worn casually and on a daily basis such as to work or to just hang out casually. On the higher end Cygnus also provides its customers with ethnic and bridal wear. Therefore the USP of this brand is to create fine pieces of jewellery which is customized for all occasions, tastes and life styles be it Indian or Western.
Cygnus is one of the largest distributed brands in India currently and is available at all the retails outlets across the country. To reinstate this, Cygnus Fine Jewellery has 25 exclusive showrooms spread across India and also has 200 outlets across 43 cities in the country.
Before the recession, Andrew Puzder, who heads the Carl's Jr. and Hardee's burger chains, liked to joke that sharp-priced competitors were "giving food away." As the recession deepened and the number of 79-cent taco and 99-cent hamburger offers exploded, Puzder realized it was "no longer a joke; they are giving food away literally." On Monday, KFC gave away a free piece of its new grilled chicken just for the asking. On Tuesday, most El Pollo Loco stores offered two pieces of chicken, two tortillas.

Belle & Beau- retouching faces, retouching lives

By Aastha
Belle & Beau, a parlour in the premises of the Bajaj Institute of Learning is not just another beauty salon.
Inaugurated almost a month ago, the parlour conducts free classes for the students of Bajaj Institute of Learning.
Belle and Beau is, at present, training six girls of the institute in two batches. This 8 month course would enable these special girls to undertake skin and hair care as well as learn the art of make up.
Run by Devina Madan, Belle & Beau is doing wonders. Since the girls undergoing the training are hearing impaired, training is imparted through sign language. The trainers are making the effort to learn sign language in morning classes at the Institute, which is exemplary and praise-worthy. This proves the dedication of the team for the cause.
The Academic Head of Bajaj Institute of Learning, Anjali Agarwal, shared her happiness at the success of the parlour concept. "We are getting a great response and the girls are also responding well. This is a new vocation which has been added to our curriculum. Initially, we introduced tailoring, dress making and computer courses to name a few. We had a student, earlier, working on this concept, but due to her inability to interact with the students, the concept could only work out under Belle & Beau," she adds.
Bajaj Institute of Learning aims at training children in self-sustaining vocations.
It is important for students to grow up to be financially independent adults. In the present time, when girls opt specially to be economically self-reliant, a beautician's course is a very good option.
Belle & Beau is located at a peaceful and picturesque location, targeted purely at the public interest.
The trainees at the institute found it a little difficult, initially to obtain permission from their parents to join the course, as a few parents were conservative and had apprehensions.
But everyone readily agreed, after seeing the quality of the parlour and the security ensured by the institute.
The parlour has a trained team and provides excellent services to the customers. The parlour is headed by Devina Madan, a make up specialist from VLCC; Arun who has achieved specialisation in hair care after getting trained from L'Oreal and VLCC.
Neetu Thapa, a skin specialist, has also taken training from VLCC.
This qualified team ensures great service and satisfied customers. The parlour, so far, is only for ladies.
The girls are given 3 days training, each, on hair and skin care training, and also assist the parlour staff everyday from 10.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
Those undergoing training at present are Neha Bhardwaj, Shefali Verma, Jyori Singh, Reena Rawat, Rekha Meena and Fatima.
The girls would be given a certificate by BIL after they undergo the 8 month course. They are gradually gaining confidence and have already started practicing on their mothers and sisters.
The institute successfully ensures that children learn in a protected environment and are fit to face the world after finishing school.
While interacting with girls through Sign Language, their excitement was very evident. They shared how they were initially afraid to practice what they had learnt on each other and practiced shaping eye brows on their legs. Now they practice it on whoever is willing. This certainly indicates the confidence the girls have developed.
The parlour has prominent clients like Nazia and Neena Nautiyal.
If the clients are to be believed, the parlour provides excellent services for head massages and skin care.
Students of Graphic Era University came all the way to the parlour from Clement Town to get ready for their farewell.
Ruchika, a Graphic Era University graduate states, "I don’t think any other parlour would have given me such a great look. I will visit Belle & Beau very often now. It is a place where one can relax and enjoy being pampered."
Air Commodore, AK Khanna (Retd), Director of the Bajaj Institute of Learning enthusiastically supported the cause and contributed to the setting up of the parlour as well as implementation of the idea.

By Pragati Jaggi (VIII-B)

Doon Presiedncy School
School is a word which stands for a’ temple of knowledge’ in which the children are blessed with knowledge. The students are given the authority to learn and achieve success in life. I, Pragati Jaggi, would like to share my thoughts on my school- Doon Presidency.
My School,Doon Presidency,Parts education,Among the children.
Truly, my school has made great efforts to attract more and more children towards itself in every new session, hundreds of children take admission in my school
Mrs. A. Thakur Our lovely principal,
Always makes great attempts, to make the children follow, all the principles.Our lovely principal Mrs. A.Thakur acts as a guide for us and advices us to follow the rules and maintain discipline which would help us in future. Teacher, Our friends and guides, Ready to solve all the problems any times.Our teachers are one of the caring ones. They are always ready to help us and encourage us. The teachers are the way to success for us. We should remember the ‘Doha’ written by Kabir Das.Guru Govind dou khade,
Kake lagu paye
Balihari guru apne Jind govind diyo bataye.And especially Our friends, the dearest ones, we can never forget.
Our friends and peers are the most precious diamonds of our life. We can never ever forget them they are the ones who act are very important part in our life.
I thank Mr. Goyal to open such a place which not only makes us learnBut decorates our talent with grace!
And at last, I would truly thank Mr. Goyal, the President of our school since it is only because of him I and my school mates are able to learn friendship, discipline receive education and achieve success. Along with Mr. Goyal, I would like to thank those personalities who have given rise to school and able to give a path to the children to success.

hings i enjoyed doing during the holidays

By Rahul Das,(V)
John Martyn Memorial School
My favourite place is Malsi Deer Park. There are swings, animals, a beautiful lake and a canteen. I enjoy playing on the swings and the walks around the park. I like looking at the deer with their big, soft eyes and their beautiful coat. The rabbits are very beautiful and I enjoy watching the ducks. Everybody likes watching the leopard and I do too. It has sharp teeth and beautiful black spots on its body. Visiting the Deer Park I have learnt to value rare wild animals.
I enjoy reading very much. The stories I liked the most were Lion King and Jungle Book. I like to read stories as I want to learn about new things. I like the Power Rangers. They work as a team. They protect the earth from the aliens .They have many magical powers like a lion’s courage, a leopard’s speed and a rhino’s strength. Whenever I got bored I would open a storybook and get lost in another world.

By Pratiksh Thapli, (V)

John Martyn Memorial School
My summer holidays were very long but exciting. I did a lot of things. I went to Haridwar with my parents and bathed in the River Ganga. We visited the temples of Mansa Devi. There were hundreds of people there. After a few weeks I visited relatives at Nehrugram, Nagal, Aryanagar & Jolly. I enjoy visiting my aunts and uncles as they prepare such good things for us to eat and spoil us. I was also regular in attending Maths and English tuition classes at our school.
I was looking forward to coming back to school all the same. I have very good friends and I missed them a lot. I think my friends also missed me. I enjoy taking part in all school activities. On the first day we had to act like reporters and interview one friend about her holidays. It made the class interesting. I am glad school has reopened.

By Akash Joshi , (V)

By Akash Joshi , (V)
John Martyn Memorial School
I was very happy and excited to be back at school even though my holidays were fun filled. I went to Delhi, the capital of India, for my holidays. My parents live there. It has huge buildings. I visited many places like India Gate, Rajghat, Qutab Minar. Other places I visited were Birla Mandir, Akshardham Temple and the Adventure Park.
I was happy to be back in Dehradun as I was missing my friends very much. Being back in school makes me very happy as I enjoy my classes. At the same time I enjoy playing tricks on some of the teachers and wait for them to catch me ! I enjoy my games periods and recess time a lot too.

Success & confidence

By Ankit Dabral, (XII- C)
Carman School
"Confidence comes naturally with success but success comes to only those who are confident"
Every person in this world is not born with a silver spoon in their mouth. This is the best way to describe what a great economist God is since he has not given everything to everyone.
All of us want to achieve success in our lives but it is only a handful of us who achieve it.
So why is it this way? The answer to this is very simple. There are people in the world who dream about things and live in their fantasy world, such people cannot accept failure and whenever they fail, they say that it wasn’t their luck.
Whereas there are people who live in real world and take life in a practical manner.
Such people have a tremendous self confidence in then and the idea of failure never daunts them. They believe it to be a stepping stone to success.
Therefore the way to success becomes easier for them.
Success is spelled as SUCCESS. If the word ‘U’ is taken from it- the word becomes meaningless. So it is you who is an important ingredient of success. You cannot rely on anyone but yourself to achieve what you want. If we lack confidence we can never keep our mind busy with work and hence increase chances of flaws.
It should be remembered that an empty mind is a welcome door for the devil to enter.
A confident person with an aim always thinks about the best possible ways to achieve his ambition. By being confident we can find our own ways and can bend opportunities since ‘success is the child of audacity and should be molded through opportunity.
The ultimate problem with us is that we don’t have a goal in our lives due to which we keep making excuses for our goal. But it is essential for us to have a goal in our life and we should always remember that, "it is never too late to choose our goals, we can start just now."
I have developed this extreme confidence within me but I am also proud of the fact that it has never developed into over confidence.
The confidence inside me always compels me to take on the toughest of challenges in life for I know that my efforts will not go in vein and my perseverance will sooner or later bear fruits. No one can make you feel inferior without your consent that is what confidence teaches you.
Thus we can say that, "Confidence comes naturally with success but success comes to those who are confident."