The Curiosity Dividend: Why curiosity will shape our future
Every important discovery begins with a simple question. A child in Kashmir wonders why the sky changes colour at sunset. Another asks why the seasons change every year. A student observes an apple tree and asks why some trees produce more fruit than others. Another learns about artificial intelligence and imagines using technology to solve everyday problems. Curiosity drives learning, scientific discovery and innovation. It encourages people to observe carefully, think clearly and keep learning. As children grow older, they often ask fewer questions. Nurturing that natural curiosity can help prepare them for a future that values knowledge, creativity and thoughtful problem solving. Curiosity is becoming one of the defining ideas in education, research and leadership worldwide. Universities such as Harvard University, Stanford University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have spent years studying how curiosity improves learning, innovation and decision making. International organisations including the World Economic Forum, the OECD, the World Bank, UNESCO and UNICEF also highlight curiosity, critical thinking and lifelong learning as essential skills for the future. Their message is simple. Knowledge matters, but the willingness to keep learning is equally valuable in an ever changing world. Science also explains why curiosity matters. Harvard researcher Elizabeth Bonawitz describes curiosity as a natural desire to understand something that is not yet known. Her research suggests that curious children often learn more effectively, remember information for longer and develop stronger problem solving skills. Research in neuroscience also suggests that curiosity activates areas of the brain linked with attention, motivation and memory, helping people absorb and retain new information. This insight is just as relevant in Kashmir as it is anywhere else. Learning is not only about remembering facts. It is also about observing the world carefully, asking thoughtful questions and developing the confidence to explore new ideas. The business world has reached similar conclusions. Harvard Business School professor Francesca Gino has shown that organisations where people ask thoughtful questions often make better decisions, collaborate more effectively and generate more creative ideas. Global leadership firm Egon Zehnder has identified curiosity as one of the strongest qualities found in successful leaders. At Stanford Graduate School of Business, communication experts encourage leaders to ask thoughtful questions, listen carefully and remain open to different perspectives. These qualities are just as valuable in Kashmir as they are anywhere else. The ability to ask thoughtful questions and remain open to different perspectives benefits every field. The rise of artificial intelligence has made curiosity even more valuable. AI systems can analyse information, write reports, generate computer code and answer factual questions within seconds. More importantly, they still depend on people to ask the right questions, define problems and make thoughtful decisions. Daniela Amodei, co-founder and president of Anthropic, believes curiosity is one of the most valuable qualities for future leaders. Although she studied English literature, she credits her willingness to keep learning across disciplines for her success. For young people in Kashmir, where digital learning and access to technology continue to expand, curiosity can become the bridge between using technology and creating it. Leading universities now see curiosity as a vital part of education and research. At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, curiosity is described as the foundation of scientific discovery through initiatives such as the Curiosity Mission. Researchers across the institute work on subjects including artificial intelligence, climate science, health care and advanced materials. The MIT Health and Life Sciences Collaborative brings together scientists, engineers and doctors because many modern challenges require knowledge from different fields. Stanford University's d.school encourages students to turn curiosity into practical solutions through design thinking. Similar approaches are also found at the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, ETH Zurich, Imperial College London and Germany's Max Planck Society, where collaboration across disciplines is increasingly encouraged. International organisations are reaching similar conclusions. The World Economic Forum highlights curiosity alongside creativity, critical thinking and lifelong learning as important qualities for the future. The OECD encourages education systems to strengthen critical thinking, problem solving and lifelong learning. The World Bank emphasises learning, innovation and skills development as important drivers of long term development. UNESCO promotes education that allows learners to explore ideas with confidence, while UNICEF supports learning environments where children feel comfortable asking questions and discovering new knowledge. These ideas have equal importance in Kashmir. Several Asian education systems are placing greater emphasis on exploration based learning, creativity and problem solving. Singapore has strengthened classroom learning by encouraging students to explore ideas and think independently. Japan continues to expand creative and practical learning alongside academic excellence. South Korea increasingly combines technology education with innovation and design thinking. India is also contributing through several important initiatives. IIT Gandhinagar's Curiosity Lab promotes interdisciplinary learning and encourages students to explore ideas beyond traditional subjects. The Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru provides research opportunities for young learners. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research runs the JIGYASA programme, connecting school students with scientists and laboratories. Atal Tinkering Labs across the country encourage students to experiment, build prototypes and develop practical solutions to everyday challenges. Kashmir is well placed to benefit from this growing global focus on curiosity. The region has talented students, expanding universities and increasing interest in entrepreneurship and innovation. Its strengths in agriculture, horticulture, tourism, handicrafts and technology create opportunities for innovation. Imagine university students developing artificial intelligence tools that help fruit growers identify plant diseases at an early stage. Imagine researchers studying glaciers, biodiversity and renewable energy in the Himalayas. Imagine young entrepreneurs creating digital platforms that connect local artisans with customers across the world. Every one of these possibilities begins with curiosity, the simple willingness to ask whether something can be improved and then work patiently towards a solution. Building a culture of curiosity requires opportunities to explore, experiment and learn. Educational institutions, libraries, research centres and innovation hubs help create spaces where ideas can grow. Stronger links between education, research and industry can turn ideas into practical innovations. Kashmir has a long tradition of learning, scholarship and creativity. Curiosity offers another way to build on that foundation by encouraging learning, research and innovation across different fields. When people are encouraged to observe carefully, think independently and work together, they become better prepared for a changing world. Curiosity supports scientific discovery while also strengthening communication, teamwork, creativity and responsible leadership. The most important lesson from research is that curiosity belongs to everyone. It belongs to farmers, doctors, teachers, engineers, entrepreneurs, artists and researchers. Curiosity simply means remaining open to learning and believing that every question has the potential to lead to a better understanding. Tomorrow's opportunities will not belong only to those who know the most. They will also belong to those who continue to ask the right questions, remain open to new ideas and never stop learning. If curiosity is encouraged, young people in Kashmir will be better prepared to learn, innovate and contribute. In a world where information is available at the touch of a screen, the habit of asking thoughtful questions may become one of the most valuable skills of all. (The Author writes on technology, education and innovation. Feedback: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com)
Redefining apartment living in Karnataka: Draft bill proposes 6 key changes
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Bengaluru, July 15: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced on Wednesday that his government is committed to ensuring full ownership rights for property owners and addressing long-standing issues faced by apartment residents in Bengaluru. During discussions with representatives from apartment associations regarding the proposed Karnataka Apartment (Ownership and Maintenance) Bill, 2026, Shivakumar emphasized the governments ... Read more Karnataka Chief Minister Promises Property Rights to Apartment Owners
Karnataka Opposition Accuses Government of Issuing PRC to Bangladeshis
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D.K. Shivakumar Addresses Controversy Over Bidadi Township Project
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Eight jail officials suspended after three convicts escape
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Karnataka CM Assures Farmers: No Forced Land Acquisition for Bidadi Township Project
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Bengaluru Boy, 12, Attempts Suicide After Alleged School Assault
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Bengaluru Student Attempts Suicide Amid Allegations of Teacher Abuse
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The second edition of Sangamam Thaala Utsav 2026, a two-day cultural festival celebrating India's diverse traditions of rhythm, music, dance and performing arts, concluded on a high note at the Prestige Centre for Performing Arts (PCPA), Bengaluru, attracting over 4,500 attendees across two days. The festival was inaugurated by renowned playback singer and actress Vasundhara Das in the presence of Mrs. Kumari Shibulal, Founder SFPI, Mr. S. D. Shibulal, Co-founder SFPI and Co-founder and former CEO of Infosys, and Manjula Senthil, Program Director Sangamam. Sangamam Thaala Utsav 26 Organised by the Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives (SFPI) through its cultural platform Sangamam, the festival, held on 11th and 12th July 2026, brought together 161 artists from across the country, offering audiences an immersive experience of India's classical, folk and contemporary art forms through performances, workshops, exhibitions and interactive cultural experiences. Designed as a platform to preserve, promote and celebrate India's artistic heritage, Sangamam Thaala Utsav featured an engaging line-up comprising four ticketed performances, two masterclasses, six interactive workshops, seven pop-up performances, 10 art stalls, curated food stalls, a puppet installation and an interactive digital art experience. Three headline performances featuring Siddharth Belmannu, Laya Lavanya and Thaikkudam Bridge were completely sold out, reflecting the growing interest among audiences for immersive cultural experiences. Speaking on the successful conclusion of the festival, Mrs. Kumari Shibulal, Founder SFPI , said," It is immensely gratifying to see Sangamam Thaala Utsav grow into a vibrant platform that celebrates India's artistic diversity while bringing together artists, audiences and cultural enthusiasts from across the country. Our vision has always been to preserve and promote India's rich artistic traditions and create meaningful opportunities for future generations to experience them. The overwhelming response this year encourages us to continue strengthening this cultural movement ." Manjula Senthil, Program Director Sangamam , added," The response to every performance, workshop and masterclass has been extremely encouraging. It was wonderful to see audiences actively engage with artists, explore different art forms and experience Indian culture in an interactive manner. We are delighted that visitors have expressed a strong desire for many more such festivals, and we look forward to returning with an even bigger edition next year ." The festival drew participants from not only Bengaluru but also from several cities across India and even overseas, including Singapore. Artists too, came from different regions of the country, including rural areas, reinforcing Sangamam's vision of making traditional arts accessible to wider audiences. Adding to the festive spirit, Sangamam organised three lucky draws during each of its four ticketed performances, with prizes including a Meal for Two at Simmer by Lilac, Bengaluru, two-night stays at Rae by Tamara Guruvayur or Kumbakonam, and a Grand Prize of a two-night luxury stay at Tamara Kodaikanal or Tamara Coorg. Building on the success of this year's festival, Sangamam announced that the third edition of Sangamam Thaala Utsav will be held on July 10 and 11, 2027, at the Prestige Centre for Performing Arts (PCPA), Bengaluru. About Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives (SFPI) The Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives (SFPI), founded by Mrs. Kumari Shibulal and Mr. S.D. Shibulal has been transforming lives for over 25 years through programs in education, healthcare, organic farming, and the arts. SFPIs cultural platform Sangamam celebrates Indias artistic diversity and supports sustainable creative ecosystems. About Sangamam Founded by Mrs. Kumari Shibulal and Mr. S. D. Shibulal, Sangamam is the cultural platform of the Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives (SFPI). The initiative is committed to preserving, promoting and celebrating India's rich artistic heritage while creating meaningful opportunities for artists, artisans and audiences to connect through culture. www.sangamamindia.org .
Sankara Eye Hospitals, in association with VISION 2020 India, successfully concluded the 20th Annual VISION 2020 India Conference held from 10 to 12 July in Bengaluru. The conference brought together leading ophthalmologists, optometrists, public health experts, policymakers, researchers, development partners and healthcare professionals from across the country to deliberate on the future of eye care in India. From Left to Right - Dr Shalinder Sabherwal, Dr Rupali Chopra, Dr Rajesh Saini, Krishnamachari Srikkanth, Dr R V Ramani, Peter Holland, Heidi Chase Held under the theme Innovation, Collaboration and Impact in Eye Care VISIONfor Viksit Bharat 2047 , the three-day conference served as a national platform for knowledge exchange, showcasing innovations and strengthening partnerships aimed at eliminating avoidable blindness while advancing equitable, accessible and high-quality eye care across India. Inauguration of Vision 2020 The scientific programme featured discussions across five thematic tracks: Innovations and Technological Solutions in Eye Care; Collaboration for Universal Eye Health; Impact, Equity, Sustainability and Quality in Eye Care; Excellence in Optometry and Allied Ophthalmic Personnel; and Sharing Knowledge Repository: Towards Organizational Excellence and Growth. These sessions highlighted emerging technologies, digital health innovations, collaborative healthcare models, quality improvement initiatives and workforce development strategies. A special leadership session chaired by Dr. Rajesh Saini featured distinguished speakers including Dr. R. V. Ramani, Peter Holland, and Heidi Chase. Former Indian cricket captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth delivered an engaging session on Leadership Lessons from Cricket, drawing parallels between leadership in sports and healthcare. Krishnamachari Srikkanth, former Indian cricket captain and Goodwill Ambassador of VISION 2020: The Right to Sight India said, VISIONand eyesight are fundamental to everything we do, whether it is reading, writing, studying or playing sports. I am proud to be associated with VISION 2020 as its Goodwill Ambassador and support its efforts towards eliminating avoidable blindness in India. Cricket has taught me that self-belief, teamwork, innovation and hard work can help achieve even the biggest goals, and with eye care professionals from across the country coming together, I believe the VISIONof a blindness-free India by 2047 can become a reality . Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Sankara movement, the conference marked a significant milestone in Indias community eye care journey. The event celebrated Sankara Eye Foundation Indias five decades of service in delivering quality eye care to underserved communities through innovation, outreach and sustainable service models. Peter Holland, CEO OF International Agency of The Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) said, Eye health has evolved beyond being solely a healthcare concern to become a critical global development and economic priority, directly influencing education, employment, productivity and community participation. Strong leadership, collaboration and a unified voice across the eye care sector are essential to eliminating avoidable sight loss and advancing universal access to eye care. Indias experience, innovation and commitment can play a pivotal role in shaping global action and strengthening international efforts to ensure VISIONfor all . The conference featured keynote addresses, plenary sessions, panel discussions, scientific paper presentations, workshops and interactive sessions. Experts deliberated on artificial intelligence, digital health, community ophthalmology, public-private partnerships, quality improvement and capacity building to strengthen Indias eye care ecosystem. Dr RV Ramani, Padmashree Awardee and Founder and Managing Trustee, Sankara Eye Foundation about said, Viksit Bharat is not merely a government programme but a national movement that requires collective leadership across healthcare, education, industry and civil society. Healthy citizens, skilled youth, inclusive growth and sustainable institutions will be central to India's journey towards becoming a developed nation. By restoring sight, preventing avoidable blindness and strengthening healthcare capacity, eye care institutions have a vital role in ensuring that every citizen can learn, work and live with dignity. As Sankara enters its golden jubilee year after completing 3.3 million free eye surgeries, our next 50 years must demonstrate what collective leadership, compassion and sustainability can accomplish together . The conference also reaffirmed the importance of collaborative action among government agencies, healthcare institutions, academia, civil society, industry and development partners in achieving universal eye health and supporting the VISION of Viksit Bharat 2047. Speaking at the conference Dr Rajesh Saini, President of VISION 2020 said, The Right to Sight India brings together over 210 organisations, with its members contributing to nearly 5060% of the one crore eye surgeries performed in India last year. Through this conference, we aim to strengthen our collective commitment to delivering accessible, quality eye care for every citizen and contribute to the VISION of Viksit Bharat 2047 . The 20th edition of the conference attracted hundreds of delegates from across the country and concluded with renewed commitments towards innovation, collaboration and evidence-based approaches to strengthen Indias eye care ecosystem and accelerate progress towards eliminating avoidable blindness. Mr. Gokul V Subramaniam, President, Intel India , said, While India has made remarkable progress through digital transformation and public welfare initiatives, bridging the gaps in agriculture, education and healthcare requires collective action, innovation and empathy. Technology can accelerate development, but wisdom comes from character, compassion and a shared responsibility towards the most marginalized. Sankara Eye Foundation exemplifies this spirit by proving that service, sustainability and purpose-driven leadership can transform lives and inspire nation-building . About Sankara Eye Foundation Sankara Eye Foundation India is a Not-for-Profit organization committed to providing quality eye care services to the poor and marginalised sections of society. Started as a small primary health care centre in the year 1977 by Dr R.V. Ramani and Dr Radha Ramani, today Sankara is one of the largest and fastest growing social enterprises managing 14 super speciality eye care hospitals in more than 10 states. The network hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to perform advanced eye surgeries. Sankara Eye Foundation India is a protagonist of the National Eye Health Care Movement in India, continuously transforming the eye care delivery structure through various Eye Care Initiatives across age groups, cutting-edge technology, scientific approach, innovation, research & training.
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Special Intensive Revision Campaign Accelerates in Vijayanagar, 100% Forms Distributed
Bengaluru, July 15: The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) campaign is gaining momentum in Vijayanagar district, Karnataka. According to district administration, significant progress is being made in the special revision of the voter list. District Commissioner (DC) Kavita S. Mannikeri personally inspected the operations of the SIR helpline. She tested the helpline by calling and directly ... Read more Special Intensive Revision Campaign Accelerates in Vijayanagar, 100% Forms Distributed
Al-Hind terror conspiracy case: Key accused gets 7-year term
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Class 7 student battles for life after 'harassment' by teachers at school in Bengaluru
A 13-year-old student is critical after allegedly attempting suicide following school punishment. His family claims a teacher subjected him to mental harassment and humiliation. The boy had previously expressed his desire not to study at the school. Parents allege caste-based abuse by students and teachers at the institution. Authorities are awaiting a formal complaint to initiate an investigation into the incident.
TechnoSport launched a large warehouse in Bengaluru to enhance its national distribution capabilities. This expansion increases controlled warehousing capacity by 130 percent for retail and D2C growth. The strategically located facility will improve access to South India and western regions. The new warehouse stores 1.8 million products and processes one million units monthly. This move supports the brand's growing retail footprint and omnichannel ambitions.
Sabudana vada and stagecraft: Anjus Cafe in Ranga Shankara turns 20
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Karnataka seeks central team to assess drought situation
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Second-year MBBS student dies by suicide in Mangaluru
Mangaluru: A 21-year-old MBBS student allegedly died by suicide after jumping from the fifth floor of a residential apartment in Surathkal on Tuesday, July 14. The deceased has been identified as Mahalakshmi, a second-year MBBS student of Srinivas Medical College at Mukka and a native of Hubballi. According to police, Mahalakshmi was residing in a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
ISRO-ISTRAC Recruitment: Opportunity for 95 Apprentice Positions, Know the Application Requirements
Bengaluru, July 15: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced an exciting opportunity for aspiring candidates. The Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru has released an official notification for the recruitment of 95 Graduate, Diploma, and Trade Apprentices for the year 2026-2027. Interested candidates must apply by July 31, as the deadline ... Read more ISRO-ISTRAC Recruitment: Opportunity for 95 Apprentice Positions, Know the Application Requirements
Deve Gowda Warns Karnataka Government Over Bidadi Township Project Protests
Bengaluru, July 15: Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda has launched a scathing attack on the Karnataka government regarding the proposed Bidadi Township Project, following a violent incident related to it. He demanded the immediate withdrawal of FIRs filed against protesting farmers and urged the government to cancel the project. Deve Gowda warned that if ... Read more Deve Gowda Warns Karnataka Government Over Bidadi Township Project Protests
Bengaluru-based director and IIM Lucknow graduate Karan Lakhwani shared the money habits his Sindhi family has followed for years. From introducing children to banking early and openly discussing family finances to avoiding unnecessary debt and maintaining a 24-month emergency fund, he outlined five key lessons. Lakhwani also credited his parents for teaching budgeting, taxes, and investing at home, saying strong money management is a shared family responsibility.
Bengaluru Police Arrest 13 in Rs 100 Cr Land Fraud Case
Using these documents, the accused allegedly mutated six acres of land out of the 45 acres granted to the Trust and attempted to encroach upon it
Bengaluru-based CA Meenal Goel shared a Reddit post by a 33-year-old with a net worth of Rs 5.67 crore, no debt, and a desire to retire early. Reflecting on the post, she said more people in their 30s are seeking financial independence rather than promotions. According to Goel, the goal isn't escaping work but gaining the freedom to choose how, where, and for whom they work.
Three IPS officers cleared in Chinnaswamy stampede probe
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government on Tuesday exonerated senior IPS officers B. Dayananda, Vikash Kumar Vikash and Shekhar H. Tekkannavar in connection with the June 4, 2025, Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede case in which 11 people were killed, bringing an end to the departmental proceedings initiated against them under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Krishna Byre Gowdas plan for Bengaluru; Googles AI push in India
In a candid conversation with Shradha Sharma, Founder and CEO of YourStory and The Bharat Project, Karnataka Minister for Greater Bengaluru Development Krishna Byre Gowda, talks about his vision for the city. Meanwhile, Google has unveiled a broad India AI strategy.
Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar unveils AI push with first AI University, green data centres
Karnataka's chief minister unveiled an ambitious roadmap for AI development. The state plans to establish India's first government-backed AI University. An AI Innovation Hub and green data centers will also be created. This initiative aims to foster cutting-edge research and develop future AI talent. Karnataka seeks to become an AI-native state across all sectors.
Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar writes to PM Narendra Modi as drought looms
Karnataka's Chief Minister has requested Prime Minister Modi to send a central team. This team will assess the state's severe monsoon deficit and emerging drought conditions. Rainfall is significantly below normal, impacting agriculture and water resources across many districts. Reservoir levels are also critically low, affecting irrigation and hydropower generation. Timely central intervention is crucial to mitigate the widespread consequences.
Bengaluru daycare horror: Operator alleges extortion plot behind abuse videos
Little Scholars daycare alleges former employees staged videos of distressed children. These videos reportedly showed disturbing acts and were used for demands. Following the footage, Capgemini temporarily shut down the creche facility. Police have registered cases against five women and made arrests. The investigation into the alleged incident is currently ongoing.
BMSA greets Dylan P on qualifying for Badminton Asia U 17 Junior C'ships
Bangalore Manipur Students' Association BMSA has congratulated Dylan P Thokchom on being selected to represent India at the Badminton Asia U 17 Junior Championships, scheduled to be held in Chengdu, China, from 8 to 13 September 2026 He will be competing in two events U 17 Boys Singles and U 17 Boys Doubles, said BMSA in a congratulatory note br br table align center cellpadding 5 width 610 tbody tr td table class capbox width 100 tbody tr td img width 600 src https www e pao org galleries images News Related 2026 07 Dylan 20260715 jpg border 1 alt BMSA greets Dylan P on qualifying for Badminton Asia U 17 Junior C'ships td tr tr td align center BMSA greets Dylan P on qualifying for Badminton Asia U 17 Junior C'ships td tr tbody table td tr tbody table br br The recently concluded Yonex Sunrise All India Sub Junior Ranking Badminton Tournament U 15 U 17 , held in Bengaluru, Karnataka, from 29 June to 7 July 2026 served as the selection tournament for the Badminton Asia Junior Championship Dylan delivered an outstanding performance by winning a bronze Medal in the U 17 Boys' Singles category and a silver medal in the U 17 Boys' Doubles category with Rahul Kadapakula of Andhra Pradesh, making a spot for himself in the National team for the continental event, it said Dyan is the son of Thokchom Romen Kumar and Binika Pangambam, originally from Manipur Although his family is currently based in Bengaluru due to professional commitments, he continues to make Karnataka, Manipur and the Manipuri community proud through his dedication and excellence in badminton, BMSA noted BMSA also expressed pride that Dylan was one of the association members who sealed the title of BMSA's Smash for Glory 2026 Badminton Tournament, held earlier this year On behalf of the entire Manipuri community in Bengaluru, BMSA extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dyan, his parents, coaches and everyone who has contributed to his success, it added Wishing him the very best as he prepares to represent India on the international stage, BMSA also exuded confidence that he will continue to inspire aspiring athletes from Manipur and across the nation Source The Sangai Express
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When Parents Grow Old and Children Grow Distant: The Changing Face of Elder Care
There was a time when the twilight years of life were spent in the comforting embrace of family. Elderly parents lived under the same roof as their children, watched their grandchildren grow, shared stories over evening tea, and found contentment in the familiar rhythm of home. Caring for ageing parents was never considered an obligation; it was simply a way of life. The family stood as the strongest support system, and old age was viewed not as a burden but as a stage deserving love, respect, and dignity. The India of today, however, presents a very different picture. The pursuit of higher education, better employment, and financial stability has scattered families across cities and continents. Young men and women leave their hometowns to build careers in metropolitan cities or abroad. While this migration has opened doors to professional success, it has quietly widened the distance between parents and children. This distance is not merely geographical; it is emotional and social. Elderly parents are increasingly finding themselves living alone in homes that once echoed with laughter and activity. Their children remain deeply attached to them, yet the demands of modern life often prevent them from being physically present. It is in this changing social landscape that professional elder-care agencies have emerged as an important part of urban life. Over the past few years, India has witnessed the rapid growth of organisations that provide home-based care for senior citizens. These agencies offer trained caregivers who assist with daily activities, administer medicines, accompany elders to hospitals, monitor their health, arrange medical consultations, and respond during emergencies. Some even provide companionship by spending a few hours every day with elderly people who otherwise spend most of their time alone. The popularity of these services reflects a changing reality rather than changing values. It would be unfair to assume that children who hire professional caregivers have abandoned their responsibilities. In most cases, they are trying to fulfil those responsibilities in the only way circumstances permit. Modern careers leave little room for choice. A son working in Bengaluru cannot be with his ageing parents in Srinagar every day. A daughter employed in London cannot immediately travel home whenever her father falls ill. Their absence is often the price they pay for the opportunities that also enable them to support their families financially. This has created a difficult emotional dilemma. Children wish to remain close to their parents but cannot always do so. Parents encourage their children to pursue successful careers, yet they silently miss their presence. Both generations carry their own share of sacrifice. Professional caregiving has become an attempt to bridge this gap. It ensures that someone trustworthy is available to help elderly parents when family members cannot be there. Caregivers remind them to take medicines, help with household chores, accompany them to medical appointments, and offer immediate assistance during emergencies. Yet elder care is about far more than physical assistance. Old age often brings an invisible burdenloneliness. After retirement, social circles gradually shrink. Friends move away or pass on. Children become busy with careers and raising families. Days grow quieter, and conversations become fewer. For many senior citizens, the greatest hardship is not illness but isolation. Human beings are emotional by nature. They need conversation, affection, and companionship regardless of age. A few kind words, someone asking about their health, or simply sharing a meal together can lift the spirits of an elderly person more effectively than many medicines. Professional caregivers can provide valuable companionship, but they cannot replace the emotional bond shared between parents and children. That bond has been built over decades of sacrifice, love, and shared memories. It cannot be recreated through employment. Technology has undoubtedly made communication easier. Video calls allow families to see one another despite being separated by thousands of kilometres. Messages travel instantly across the world. But technology has its limits. A mobile phone cannot wipe away tears, hold a trembling hand, or offer the comfort that comes from the physical presence of a loved one. Parents seldom complain. Most understand the pressures their children face. They know the world has changed. They know careers demand mobility and competition. Many even hide their loneliness because they do not wish to become a burden. Children, too, live with silent guilt. They often wonder whether they are doing enough. Every missed family gathering, every delayed visit, every unanswered phone call leaves behind a feeling of regret. Hiring a caregiver often becomes an expression of concern rather than convenience. However, society must recognise an important truth. Professional care should complement family care, not replace it. No agency can celebrate festivals with the warmth of family. No paid caregiver can recreate childhood memories or the comfort of hearing one's own son or daughter say, I am here. Emotional presence remains the greatest gift children can offer, even if physical presence is not always possible. Families can still remain closely connected despite distance. Regular phone calls, frequent video conversations, planned visits, celebrating important occasions together, involving parents in family decisions, and simply listening patiently can make elderly parents feel valued and remembered. Choosing an elder-care agency also demands responsibility. Since senior citizens are among the most vulnerable members of society, families must ensure that caregivers are properly trained, verified, compassionate, and accountable. Trust is the foundation of quality elder care. The rise of these agencies also reflects broader demographic changes. India is steadily becoming an ageing society. Improvements in healthcare have increased life expectancy, while migration and nuclear families have reduced the availability of traditional family support. The need for organised elder care will therefore continue to grow in the coming decades. This changing reality calls for collective responsibility. Governments must strengthen healthcare services for senior citizens. Employers should encourage flexible work arrangements whenever possible. Residential communities should create neighbourhood support systems where elderly residents living alone receive regular assistance. Civil society organisations can also play a meaningful role by promoting volunteer programmes and social engagement for senior citizens. Ultimately, the discussion is not about choosing between family care and professional care. It is about combining both with compassion and wisdom. Professional caregivers can ensure safety, health, and daily support. Families must continue to provide love, emotional security, and a sense of belonging. Every parent spends the best years of life building a future for their children. They sacrifice comfort, postpone dreams, and work tirelessly without expecting repayment. In return, they ask for very littlerespect, affection, companionship, and the reassurance that they have not been forgotten. The growing elder-care industry is a reflection of changing times, not declining values. It represents society's effort to adapt to new realities. Yet even the finest professional service can never replace the warmth of a familiar voice, the comfort of a loving embrace, or the joy of seeing one's children walk through the front door. As we celebrate progress, mobility, and global careers, we must ensure that we do not leave behind those who once held our hands and taught us how to walk. Our success will be measured not only by the heights we achieve but also by the care we extend to those whose sacrifices made those achievements possible. In the end, ageing parents do not seek luxury. They seek love. And while professional care can make life easier, only family can make old age truly meaningful. (The Author is a columnist and can be reached at: sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com )
Inside Targets same-day delivery play
A viral LinkedIn post questions how living location shapes professional priorities and daily experiences. It contrasts a high-earning Bengaluru life with a simpler mountain town existence. The author suggests urban environments foster comparison, while rural settings promote contentment. LinkedIn users shared varied opinions, emphasizing perspective over surroundings for happiness. Ultimately, personal choices and mindset guide life satisfaction regardless of location.
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