Other Publications

The tendency to assemble in large groups, even in the face of danger, is not a shortcoming of human nature; rather, it is a characteristic that has contributed to the survival and success of our species throughout history. 

Artificial intelligence, once confined to the realms of imagination and academic discussion, has transformed into a formidable and ubiquitous presence that influences almost every facet of our existence. AI has revolutionised our communication, learning, food production, and health care, fundamentally altering our interactions with the world and one another.

Started as National Plastic Surgery Day, observed on July 15, originated in India, gained global attention, and became World Plastic Surgery Day.  Plastic does not refer to the synthetic material "plastic". Plastic Surgery has ancient Indian roots, with a similar process mentioned in the "Sushruta Samhita". Plastic Surgery is not just about cosmetic touch-ups; it is reconstructive surgery, burn care, microvascular repair, congenital corrections, and many more. For many, it's about regaining lost function, overcoming disfigurement, and finding a renewed sense of self-worth.

In an era where information flows freely through touchscreens and virtual experiences dominate leisure time, museums could seem like remnants of a bygone era to today's digital natives.

Vaccine hesitancy—a reluctance or refusal to vaccinate despite the availability of the vaccine—continues to be a growing global concern, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and fuelled by misinformation and distrust.

July 2 is "International Sports Journalists Day".  Sports journalists go beyond scores and statistics to bring the spirit of the game alive and help audiences connect with the sport. Tens of thousands of sports journalists work worldwide, and it is a male-dominated profession (more than 70%). One of the significant problems the sports journalist profession in India faces is the lack of training and resources. Many journalists enter the field without formal training in sports journalism. 

The International Day of Cooperatives (Coops Day) is observed on the first Saturday of July (5 July this year). A cooperative is an enterprise that brings individuals together to meet common economic, social, and cultural needs. The cooperative movement in India has a significant history, closely tied to the country's socio-economic development. In a world facing complex issues such as economic inequality and social fragmentation, cooperatives offer a resilient and inclusive model. Cooperatives build a better future for all.

The life, work and persona of India’s famous astrophysicist and science fiction writer Dr Jayant Vishnu Narlikar inspire thousands of young people worldwide who have a passion for science and science fiction. A clear vision and thought provoking account is based on a chain of interesting and exciting conversations of the author with Dr Narlikar when he was the Director IUCAA, Pune.

June 26, is observed ad the "International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking".  The UN says that the number of people abusing drugs is increasing and stands at ~296 million globally.  Empowering the young with knowledge, skills, and support helps build resilience. Legalising drugs is a complex and controversial issue and would not automatically eradicate drug abuse.  It is human greed for money and the desire to look for shortcuts to pleasure that are the reasons for this evil. Shift in focus from punishment to prevention, is the way forward.