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The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has been allocated Rs 13,539 crore in the 2024-2025 budget, an increase of 37 per cent from the 2023-2024 revised estimates of Rs 9,853.32 crore. This increase is primarily focused on enhancing <keyword id="20312810" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="welfare-programmes" source="keywords">welfare programmes</keyword> for <keyword id="21384605" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="marginalised-communities" source="keywords">marginalised communities</keyword> and improving infrastructure for social services. The key areas of funding include Rs 9,549.98 crore for the 'Umbrella Scheme for Development of Scheduled Castes', a significant increase from the Rs 6,780 crore in the previous financial year. For achieving social justice comprehensively, the saturation approach of covering all eligible people through various programmes, including those for education and health, will be adopted, Finance Minister <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> said on Tuesday while presenting the 2024-25 Union Budget in Parliament. She said to ensure <keyword id="22517725" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="inclusive-human-resource-development" source="keywords">inclusive human resource development</keyword>, a social justice saturation approach will be adopted. Social justice through the saturation approach refers to a strategy where the government aims to ensure that all eligible individuals are covered by various programmes and initiatives. The department has been allocated Rs 2,150 crore for the 'Umbrella Programme for Development of Other Vulnerable Groups' and Rs 314 crore for the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction. The establishment expenditure of Rs 145.80 crore for the central administration includes allocations for the secretariat and national commissions. The amount is a slight decrease from the previous year's Rs 152.60 crore. The National Commission for Scheduled Castes has been allocated Rs 38 crore and the National Commission for Backward Classes Rs 21 crore. The budget of the Development and Welfare Board for Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities remains at Rs 5 crore. Central sector schemes and projects are among the focus areas of this budget, with the <keyword id="22517726" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="scholarships-for-higher-education" source="keywords">Scholarships for Higher Education</keyword> for Young Achievers Scheme for Scheduled Castes being allocated Rs 428 crore. This scheme encompasses various sub-schemes, including the National Fellowship for SCs, Free Coaching for SCs and OBCs, Top Class Education for SCs and the National Overseas Scholarship for SCs. The Scheme of Residential Education for Students in High School in Targeted Areas for SCs has been allocated Rs 133.07 crore. The department also prioritises <keyword id="22024434" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="economic-assistance" source="keywords">economic assistance</keyword> and <keyword id="20068989" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="skill-development" source="keywords">skill development</keyword> through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi Yojana -- that has been allocated Rs 130 crore -- and the <keyword id="20245482" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="venture-capital-fund" source="keywords">Venture Capital Fund</keyword> for SCs and OBCs -- that has bee allocated Rs 50 crore. Additionally, the Self Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers, which previously had allocations, does not feature in the current budget, indicating a possible reallocation of funds or a change in strategy. Support for marginalised individuals, particularly through the Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise programme, which includes comprehensive rehabilitation for persons engaged in begging and welfare of transgender persons, has been allocated Rs 98.46 crore. This marks a substantial increase from the previous year's Rs 32.82 crore, highlighting a growing commitment to addressing these vulnerable groups' needs. Transfers to states and Union Territories under centrally sponsored schemes form a major part of the budget.

Budget: Rs 13,539 cr allocated to social justice department, 37% higher than last year

<ul><li><keyword id="357923" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Yogesh-Chaudhary">Yogesh Chaudhary</keyword>, Director, <keyword id="913970" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jaipur-Rugs">Jaipur Rugs</keyword> shares his plans on spending the earmarked Rs 4.5 crore on marketing.</li><li>He further shares with us how the organisation has supported underprivileged women and helped them become self-reliant since 1978.</li></ul>India is currently a leader in the production of <keyword id="455352" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="handmade-carpets">handmade carpets</keyword> and 90% of the carpets are exported from our country. However, a systemic practice of oppression through caste discrimination has been followed in our country for a very long time. Rugs and woven carpets are made by local artisans in rural India, who often do not get their due credit or even the right remuneration for their art and work. Jaipur Rug, a handwoven carpet brand, was founded by Nand Kishore Chaudhary at a time when the practices of the Indian caste system were extremely rigid and upper-class men working with Dalit women was frowned upon (openly). He was on a mission to help rural and tribal women become independent and get recognised for their talent. He started his business with two looms and nine artisans. It is now a social business that connects rural craftsmanship with global markets. He has impacted the lives of 40,000 rural artisans spread across villages in North and West India. Over 80% of the artisans are women and about 7,000 tribals. He successfully built a profitable business by exporting handmade carpets by these artisans and its biggest market today is the US. <div type="image" title="JAIPUR_RUGS_Artisants_AW8I3784" msid="82178763" hostid="261"></div> Sharing how it all started, Yogesh Chaudhary, Director of Jaipur Rugs said, “ Back then, the practices of the Indian caste system were rigid, and the weaving community was considered ‘untouchable.’ Nand Kishore Chaudhar had to work against the system to realise his dream. His family frowned, while he enjoyed working with the weavers and sharing daily meals with them. Through his effortless connection with the rural communities, he quickly gained trust and began bringing livelihood opportunities to more and more underprivileged households. In a few years, he moved to Gujarat and spent nine years training more than 2500 people from the tribal community. Today, the modern and eclectic collection of rugs are retailed across three stores in India and exported to more than 65 countries.” Jaipur Rugs clocked an export revenue of about ₹5 crore in the first year of its operations. The company today works with a number of ethnically diverse communities spread across 600 villages in five states that lie in some of the most impoverished regions of India. <table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none; table-layout: fixed; width: 451.276pt;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#6d9eeb;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Revenue/profit (In INR crore) </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#6d9eeb;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;"> </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">FY15 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">137 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">FY16 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">153 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">FY17 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">133 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">FY18 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">125 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">FY19 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">155 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">FY20 (till Dec) </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">125 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;"> </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;"></td></tr></tbody></table> Due to COVID, people have been stuck at home and the carpet market is picking up again. Jaipur Rugs has earmarked Rs 4.5 crore for marketing this year. It would spend most of its marketing monnies on digital media. “We are bullish because Covid has led to an increase in homeownership and renovations. People are spending a lot more time at home and they want it to reflect their personality and positivity. We plan to spend a lot of it on social media and several digital and physical exhibitions and events. We have a number of unique collaborations in the coming year,” said Chaudhary. According to IBEF, India is responsible for around 40% of worldwide export of handmade carpets. Export of carpets from India stood at US$ 1.37 billion in FY20, while that of handicrafts excluding handmade carpets reached US$ 1.79 billion during the same period. The total carpet export was $ 893.99 million between April and November 2020 and for handicrafts excluding handmade carpets, it was US$ 989.92 million. The Indian carpets and rugs market is highly competitive and fragmented in nature. There are over 2000 manufacturers present in the market. On what helps Jaipur Rugs stand out in this huge market, Chaudhary said, “We have a powerful story as a brand. In addition to that, we also offer the largest variety in terms of designs and price points to our clientele making it convenient for them to shop at one place.” This year, it would focus on digital marketing and opening a physical store in Bengaluru and an experience centre in Jaipur. Based on this strong marketing and expansion plan, the company is aiming to grow by 15%. “We are looking at a growth of about 15% for FY22. We retail out of four stores in Jaipur, Delhi and Mumbai and have a significant digital audience. We are looking to expand both physically and digitally to take our existing audience base up by 10X. Apart from that, our focus this year is to do a lot of internal improvements in the business. We are taking a hard look at the underlying philosophy of your business and not just its mechanics. There is a clear purpose that our business has. A gap in the market that we fill. We are focusing on that to make informed changes for the next phase of growth,” said Chaudhary.

Meet Jaipur Rugs, an organisation that is empowering marginalised women in Rajasthan and exporting its local rugs to 65 countries

<ul class="generic-article__summary--ul content--ul"><li class="generic-article__summary--li content--li">West Bengal’s ruling Trinamool Congress woos Kolkata’s Chinese community as it faces a tough fight from Narendra Modi’s BJP</li><li class="generic-article__summary--li content--li">Though they do not have the numbers to influence government policy, the head of the Chinese Indian Association says voting is an important activity if you want to feel part of a country</li></ul> Restaurateur Monica Liu, 66, is an ethnic Chinese but has lived in the Indian city of Kolkata all her life. She and her family are among the estimated 6,000 Indian citizens of Chinese origin living in the country – with about 5,000 of them living in Kolkata, many with Hakka heritage. They are mostly descendants of those who fled to India in the middle of the 19th century to escape turmoil caused by the clash between British forces and Qing dynasty troops known as the <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/2075509/dark-legacy-britains-opium-wars-still-felt-today-amid-fight-against" class="link-text">Opium Wars</a> and the bloody rebellion against dynasty known as the Taiping Uprising. The Chinese community has long been marginalised by Indian authorities despite their presence for over 200 years. Those of Chinese origin born before 1950 cannot get Indian citizenship, leaving them holding on to Chinese and British passports while some have ended up being stateless after deciding not to renew their temporary resident permits. <h3 style="margin-bottom: 2.35714rem; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: 300; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 1.71429rem; line-height: 2.42857rem; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; display: inherit;"><a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3010741/indian-election-explained-how-narendra-modis-good-days-turned" class="link-text">Indian election: how Modi’s ‘good days’ turned bad </a></h3>But for those who are citizens, more have decided to participate in politics after community leaders began mobilising people to get their voter identity cards in the last two decades, said Bean Ching Law, president of the Chinese Indian Association. Kolkata voters will go to the ballot booth on Sunday, the last day of polling in <a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3010741/indian-election-explained-how-narendra-modis-good-days-turned" class="link-text">India’s mammoth six-week general election</a> . In recent weeks, election wall graffiti in Chinese, requesting votes for the candidate of the Trinamool Congress party (TMC), appeared on the walls of Kolkata’s Chinatown in the Tangra district. Trinamool runs the state government in West Bengal, where Kolkata is situated.SUBSCRIBE TO THIS WEEK IN ASIA Get updates direct to your inbox Members of the community say it’s the first time they’ve seen this sort of outreach to them. Most think that it is an extension of the Trinamool’s grass roots-level growth in the state. After all, no one from the party has approached the elders of the Chinese community for votes. Also, Kolkata North, the constituency within which the Chinatown falls, will see tough fight between the candidates of the TMC and <a href="https://www.scmp.com/topics/narendra-modi" class="link-text">Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s</a> Bharatiya Janata Party, making every vote a crucial one for either side.A history of exclusion Law, a 49-year-old entrepreneur, has fought for the rights for the Chinese community since his return from the US in 2007. One of his strategies has been to attempt to obtain Overseas Indian Citizenship (OCI) for those born before 1950. The OCI, which gives foreign citizens permission to work and live in India indefinitely, will help such individuals avoid having to spend around US$156 annually to renew a permit allowing them to stay in the country. “However, these applications were rejected [by authorities] saying those individuals never showed the need to become an Indian citizen,” he says. “This is false: people applied for passports in the 1960s and were rejected outright. In fact, it was this rejection letter that helped them get other countries’ passports.” Law has been encouraging the community to vote. “Voting is the most important activity if you want to feel part of a country. It differentiates you from a person from another country. It is a sign that you belong here…..For any other Indian, why is it important to vote? The same reasons apply to us,” he said. <h3 style="margin-bottom: 2.35714rem; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: 300; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 1.71429rem; line-height: 2.42857rem; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; display: inherit;"><a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3010707/india-elections-bjp-may-need-allies-narendra-modi-drove-away" class="link-text">BJP may need the allies Modi drove away </a></h3>But he is pragmatic, pointing out that they do not have the numbers to influence government policy, even about themselves. “[This is the] weakness of democracy as far as microscopic minorities are concerned. Democracy is always about the majority; the minuscule minority is dirt,” he said. For Liu, the memory of how her family was snatched from their homes and thrown in prison for five-and-a-half years after the <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/article/1452590/1962-sino-indian-war-still-stirs-bitter-controversy" class="link-text">Sino-Indian war</a> , remains.The clash between tens of thousands of Indian and Chinese troops took place between October and November 1962, after a series of border incidents sparked by India’s decision to grant asylum to the Dalai Lama after a failed Tibetan rebellion against Chinese rule. China declared a ceasefire on November 19 but that was when the danger began for India’s ethnic Chinese residents. Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, greets her supporters in Kolkata. Photo: Reuters Liu recalls how her mother saw it coming, her intuition sharpened by listening for Japanese bomber aircraft and running for cover in her village in southern China during the Second World War. “She packed bags full of clothes for each of my siblings and tasked me with equipping them with the bags, when the police came for us,” Liu said. It was 5am when the police knocked on the door and explained that all ethnic Chinese were being rounded up, days before India’s Parliament passed a law that allowed the detention of people assessed to be “of hostile origin”. The Indian government has never released the numbers, so estimates on the number of detainees vary: of the roughly 40,000 Chinese-origin individuals in India at the time, between 3,000 and 10,000 were detained, although no one was successfully prosecuted. Mass deportations to China and migrations to countries like Canada, the US and Australia, mostly from the affluent members of community who were Hakka, followed the detentions. Liu’s family was offered deportation to China soon after internment but her father chose to remain in India. “My mom wanted to go. My daddy didn’t want to. Dad said, “I have nobody in China. When I go back, what will I do?,”she said. <h3 style="margin-bottom: 2.35714rem; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: 300; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 1.71429rem; line-height: 2.42857rem; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; display: inherit;"><a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/opinion/article/3009682/exploiting-islamophobia-election-winning-tool-india" class="link-text">Exploiting Islamophobia: an election-winning tool in India </a></h3>Indian filmmaker Rafeeq Ellias compared the Chinese internment in India to when Americans of Japanese origin were detained during the Second World War. “People have not even spoken about their experiences even to their own children,” said Rafeeq, who made a documentary, The Legend of Fat Mama, about Kolkata’s Chinese community in 2005. Ellias has also written about the need for the Indian government to acknowledge the internment. The Japanese Americans documented their experience and were able to obtain an apology from the US government. The ethnic Chinese in India have been unable to do that. “They have been so marginalised and so few in number and the young people have all migrated at the first opportunity,” he says. “They don’t even have a sense of history or continuity.” Sinking roots But things could be changing. Singapore-based Rinkoo Bhowmick, who founded the CHA project, said she saw younger ethnic Chinese choosing to remain in India instead of migrating to countries like Canada, the US and Australia because the economy was doing well. The CHA project has been attempting a revival of Kolkata’s Old Chinatown in the Tiretta Bazaar area, which is where the first migrants settled, before pollution regulations forced the creation of a New Chinatown in 1910 in Tangra, about 7km away. The project plans to transform the Old Chinatown into a vibrant public space through events and heritage conservation. “The decision of these youngsters to stay back should eventually give rise to a sense of belonging,” Bhowmick said. Others like Thomas Chen, 42, joint secretary of the Indian Chinese Association (ICA), one of the many organisations for ethnic Chinese, have been working to promote Chinese culture and heritage among Indian society. Chen speaks with pride of teaching a contingent of the Indian Army a Mandarin song about friendship. <h3 style="margin-bottom: 2.35714rem; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: 300; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 1.71429rem; line-height: 2.42857rem; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; display: inherit;"><a href="https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/geopolitics/article/2104347/imagine-what-china-and-india-can-do-together" class="link-text">Imagine what China and India can do together </a></h3>“I also wrote a Chinese song on the Mid-Autumn Festival for the Indian Chinese Association. It was telecast twice last year on China Central Television.” The now-defunct project of the ICA, which has only 10 members, also saw the association organise Chinese-language classes for Indian companies Tata Iron and Steel, and Infosys. Robert Hsu, secretary of the ICA, said he knew of community members who were uncomfortable at how the Indian media took a jingoistic line on the 2017 <a href="https://www.scmp.com/topics/china-india-border-dispute" class="link-text">border stand-off between the armies of India and China</a> . Indian soldiers wanted China to stop construction of a road extension project in a location claimed by its ally Bhutan as well as Beijing.But Hsu pointed to the organisation’s name and said it served to show that for India’s ethnic Chinese, “it has always been about being Indian first”. Indian PM Narendra Modi at an election rally in Mathurapur, south of Kolkata. Photo: AP For Monica Liu, who now owns five busy restaurants in Kolkata, the state came knocking at her door again some years back but it was for a more pleasant reason: the then-chief minister of West Bengal wanted to dine at one of her eateries. Asked about her feelings about India and her identity, Liu offered a food analogy. “People always ask me: is your food Chinese Indian or Indian Chinese,” she says. “I reply that my food is exactly Chinese. Is there Indian masala in my food? No. The only thing is that we add more of some ingredients to enhance the flavour for the Indian customer.” Her Chinese identity is rooted in India, she continued. “Indian people have never asked me whether I am Chinese. But I am asked this when I visit China. I tell them that I am Chinese, my parents were from China, I was born and brought up in India, I am doing in business in India and my features are Chinese. I then tell them they shouldn’t be asking me that question,” she said.

India election: how will the Chinese community factor play out in Kolkata?

<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div><ul class="summary-list"><li>Starting last week and over the weekend, a series of heated online events known as #Reactgate unfolded on <a href="http://businessinsider.com/category/twitter">Twitter</a>.</li><li>#Reactgate centered around the React community, a community of <a href="http://businessinsider.com/category/developers">developers</a> and users of a popular <a href="http://businessinsider.com/category/open-source">open source</a> project that started on <a href="http://businessinsider.com/category/facebook">Facebook</a>.</li><li>Several users, including designer Tatiana Mac, called out the racism they've seen in the React community and faced harassment online.</li><li>During #Reactgate, open source library author Ken Wheeler and Dan Abramov, a React software engineer at Facebook, temporarily deactivated their accounts.</li><li>Facebook's React team has since adopted a code of conduct focused on being more inclusive and plans to set up ways to prevent harassment.</li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/?hprecirc-bullet">Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories</a>.</li></ul>Facebook is adopting a new code of conduct and vowing to combat harassment after one of its most popular open source projects was rocked by days of heated Twitter feuds and accusations of racism in an incident now known as #Reactgate.Reactgate is a reference to Facebook's <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/react-facebook-javascript-twitter-asana-pinterest-2019-6">React open source project, </a>a framework that's used for building user interfaces (UI), which is to say, what an application looks like and how people interact with it. Starting mid-last week and through the weekend, several React community members called out the racism and harassment they've seen in tech, triggering a wave of dismissive comments and online harassment.When it was all over, Tatiana Mac, a designer who had initially raised some of the issues, announced she was leaving the industry as a result of a barrage of harassment she suffered. And two influential members of the React community, including a Facebook software engineer, temporarily deactivated their Twitter accounts.Dan Abramov, the React software engineer at Facebook, eventually returned to Twitter to apologize on behalf of the React team for not being as "loud and clear about it as we should have," while Ken Wheeler, an open source library author, also returned to Twitter to express remorse for his role in the affair.The incident points to the broader turmoil reverberating across the tech industry, as employees raise uncomfortable issues about inclusion, discrimination and problematic behavior ingrained in the male-dominated engineering world.Also read: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/react-facebook-javascript-twitter-asana-pinterest-2019-6">Everything you need to know about React, a project started at Facebook that now helps Twitter, Pinterest, and Asana keep their apps looking good and working great</a>In response to #Reactgate, Facebook's React team plans to adopt the <a href="https://www.contributor-covenant.org/">Contributor Covenant</a>, a code of conduct that focuses on being more inclusive to women, people of color, and other marginalized populations. It also plans to set up a way for people to anonymously report violations of the Contributor Covenant and step up diversity and inclusion efforts in the React community."Hateful rhetoric or behavior have no place in the React open source community or any Facebook community," Yuzhi Zheng, engineering manager of the React team, said in a statement. "These behaviors are abhorrent to everyone on the React team and we are committed to working with the wider community to address them and ensure we create an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome and empowered to thrive."Here's how #Reactgate unfolded.<h2>A 'much broader problem with white supremacy'</h2>Last week, Mac <a href="https://slides.com/tatianamac/systems-of-systems">gave a talk</a> at Clarity Conf, a design conference in San Francisco, about designing in a more inclusive way. During the talk, she covered the "white supremacist capitalist patriarchy," which she says affects much of society today.A conference attendee <a href="https://twitter.com/beep/status/1164300625384882176">tweeted a photo</a> from Mac's presentation, and the next day, the user @itsreth1nk replied to the tweet saying, "Most definitely wasn't a tech conference," and "Looks to be some kind of SJW conference." The acronym SJW means "social justice warrior."&#xa0;"There's a much broader problem with white supremacy in general because of a lack of education of this concept in tech," Mac told Business Insider. "It's a React problem and a framework that's much larger in tech."Another user, designer and writer Heydon Pickering, tweeted a joke suggesting that users in the React community were obsessed with lifting weights, guns, Trump and free market ideals.&#xa0;Several people commented, saying that Pickering was generalizing the React community. Jordan Walke, who created React, tweeted the following:Wheeler also chimed in, tweeting, "TFW you ridicule other devs for weightlifting." That tweet has since been deleted. He also retweeted Pickering's tweet with this response:&#xa0;Wheeler says that originally, he felt like Pickering's tweet was "a little bit of a reach," which was why he posted those tweets in response."I probably took it a little bit lightly at first because I couldn't believe what I was being accused of," Wheeler told Business Insider.<h2>'People care more about protecting the reputation of a framework'</h2>Mac called out the React users on Twitter for focusing more on protecting React's reputation rather than listening to its users.&#xa0;Many Twitter accounts, including users in the React community and Wheeler's followers, started harassing her for "hours at a time."&#xa0;"It was an entire mob attacking you because they're upset their inspiration or leader deactivated their Twitter account for hours," Mac said. "It's hard to filter out the hateful messages you get especially when you're a queer woman of color."Tae'lur Alexis, founder of CodeEveryday.io, defended Mac on Twitter. Alexis says that she's seen "toxic" behavior in the React community firsthand."Coming from someone in the React community, I've been in it for over a year," Alexis said. "I've been knee-deep in it. People express harmful views and behavior, and they're defended. People don't want to believe someone they look up to could be problematic."<h2>The OK sign</h2>Adding to the controversy, images surfaced from a conference a year ago in which Wheeler is seen flashing an upside down OK sign. When the presentation from the React Rally, conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, was posted online, a YouTube user questioned if Wheeler was flashing the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/universal-orlando-guests-make-nazi-salute-white-power-gestures-2019-8">OK sign</a> that has become linked to the alt-right and white supremacists.Wheeler said he was flashing the sign because he was playing the "circle game," a schoolyard ritual in which anyone who looks at the sign gets a punch in the arm. He said that he made a joke at the beginning of the presentation, saying that now everyone gets a punch in the arm. At the time, he says he had no idea that the OK sign had become a white supremacist symbol.On Twitter, he also posted a thread, where he said he didn't know what the sign meant at the time and apologized.&#xa0;"Perhaps it was my own privilege that prevented me from being aware of that being used," Wheeler said. "I wanted to go ahead and just apologize to anyone who might have been hurt from that. After finding out, I wanted to be clear and say, 'Hey, I didn't know.' I don't think I did anything wrong but the impact was still there and I"m sorry if I cause anyone pain or harm."<h2>'I'll be the one who calls out bad behavior when I see it'</h2>During #Reactgate, both Wheeler and Abramov temporarily deactivated their accounts. Wheeler says he deactivated his account so that his followers, who were using his replies to harass people, would not have the ability to continue doing so.&#xa0;<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div>"I saw a lot of harassment taking place," Wheeler said. "A lot of it was either on my behalf or on behalf of what they would construe my side to be. I felt like it was necessary to come out and say, 'If you do this on my behalf, that's not welcome and you're not doing me a favor. You're not doing me a favor by harassing people.'"Wheeler says moving forward, he's committed to holding himself, as well as other followers, more accountable."If I see something going on, that's work that I have to do. I'll be the one who calls out bad behavior when I see it," Wheeler said. "I'll use my position and privilege and my standing in the community to do that."Both Wheeler and Abramov had since tweeted apologies.&#xa0;<h2>A 'move fast and break things' mentality</h2>Still, Mac says she's leaving the industry because of the harassment she faced online, and she's not sure what she'll do next. She'll continue working on the design contracts she already has, but does not plan to take on any new ones.&#xa0;"I'm the one who's leaving the industry and it gets washed under," Mac said. "It's illustrating the problem. Women in tech and women of color are completely marginalized in this industry. Even when stuff like this goes, people don't notice that I'm the one who's most impacted by this."Mac says that this problem isn't just isolated within the React community, but also tech as a whole. However, she says there are aspects of the React community that do not make it inclusive.&#xa0;"React has a very specific kind of culture associated with it, which is difficult for people who work in the React space," Mac said. "React has a very pro-bro culture, to put it lightly. React being a derivative of Facebook has a lot of the Facebook 'move fast and break things' mentality, which is inherently coded as masculine."Mac also says that these many of these members may not necessarily identify as white supremacists, but she feels that harassment and gaslighting often gets tolerated."People who speak out like I did get harassed until we shut up and leave like I did," Mac said.Since #Reactgate, Abramov has reached out to Mac, and she plans to talk more to the React team about how the community can do better. The React team also met to understand what happened during #Reactgate and decide what to do next.&#xa0;However, Mac says the community needs to "put in the work.""That work is hard," Mac said. "I do hope that this unfortunate series of events leads to something better for the community and makes a safer space for minoritized individuals in tech."Mac and her colleague wrote a document detailing what happened during #Reactgate. You can view the whole document <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1g4oh2GGZOsucZfT1YJ5wjDUSk3ntbM3RNAxVs528-NM/edit">here</a>.Got a tip? Contact this reporter via email at <a href="mailto:rmchan@businessinsider.com">rmchan@businessinsider.com</a>, Telegram at @rosaliechan, or&#xa0;Twitter DM at <a href="https://twitter.com/rosaliechan17">@rosaliechan17</a>. (PR pitches by email only, please.) Other types of secure messaging available upon request. You&#xa0;can also&#xa0;<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-tip-business-insider-securely-guide-signal-securedrop-2017-6">contact Business Insider securely via SecureDrop</a>.<div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div> <div class="margin-top"> <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-meteor-shower-perseids-orionids-leonids-2018-8">A spectacular meteor shower is coming - here's what you're actually seeing</a></h3> <div> </div> </div>

React, a popular open source project that started at Facebook, is adopting a new code of conduct after several people on Twitter called out racism in the community

With Gen Alpha already leading the latest wave of memes (skibidi toilet, anyone? No one?), it can start to feel like toddlers are learning to scroll before they can walk. With social media turning out to become a massive part of growing up nowadays, Australia has become the first nation to step up with plans to ban it for minors. This has sparked a question that desperately needs to be answered: just how much is too much when it comes to kids on social media? The risks aren’t just rumours. Researchers have been raising red flags for years, suggesting that too much screen time at a young age can have lasting effects. So, let’s take a look at what science has to say about how early exposure to social media affects kids’ minds, moods, and everything in between. <h2>The sleep struggle</h2>It’s not just adult sleep that gets disrupted by blue light — it’s kids’ sleep too, only they’re even more vulnerable. Screens, especially before bedtime, can delay the release of melatonin, the hormone that tells our bodies it’s time to sleep. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who use screens near bedtime often get less sleep and end up feeling groggy the next day. That leads to more than just fatigue; lack of sleep can also affect kids' learning, memory, and even mood stability. <h2>Scrolling through emotions</h2>The social media effect on mental health is a bit like playing with fire. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, while moderate use can boost self-esteem and help kids feel more connected, too much can tip the scales the other way. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="115056492" title="I&amp;#39;m a mom of 6 and don&amp;#39;t throw birthday parties after age 1. Kids don&amp;#39;t remember them and they are a waste of money." mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Excessive social media can lead to anxiety, depression, and lower self-worth. Kids may also suffer from FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), as they constantly compare themselves to the perfect-looking snapshots of others. Imagine dealing with that pressure before you even hit high school — it’s no wonder it’s causing stress for young minds. <h2>Attention span on shuffle mode</h2>Social media doesn’t just grab kids’ attention; it keeps it on a fast-paced rollercoaster. Research from multiple regions, including India, shows that children who spend a lot of time on social media might find it harder to stay focused on tasks without instant rewards. The endless cycle of quick likes and notifications can make schoolwork and even daily routines feel sluggish by comparison. Think of it as training kids’ brains to expect rewards on a constant, rapid-fire basis — something that real life just doesn’t offer. <h2>Virtual friends vs. real connections</h2>Kids might feel like they have tons of friends online, but are those connections as meaningful as the ones they’d make in person? UCLA researchers found that kids who spend a lot of time online may struggle to develop strong social skills in real life, like reading body language and empathy. This doesn’t mean that social media is all bad; for marginalised kids or those who have niche interests, it can provide a sense of belonging and community. But the danger is when those virtual friendships start replacing real ones, making it harder for kids to connect offline. <h2>Cyberbullying and online harassment</h2>The internet has its darker sides too, and cyberbullying tops the list. According to the Cyberbullying Research Center, more than half of adolescents have experienced cyberbullying in some form. Unlike traditional bullying, which might stop once the school bell rings, online bullying can follow kids home, affecting their mental health long-term. Kids who face bullying online are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and even thoughts of self-harm, making the need for boundaries even clearer. <h2>Body image battles</h2>Apps like Instagram and TikTok are fun — but they can also be a trap for body image issues, especially for girls. A study published in the Body Image Journal found that young girls who frequently use social media are more likely to experience body dissatisfaction. When kids see a constant feed of “perfect” lives and appearances, they can start to feel that they don’t measure up, even if they’re barely old enough to understand the concept of self-esteem.<h2>To post or not to post?</h2>Despite the risks, social media isn't all bad. When used responsibly, it can be a powerful tool for learning and creativity. These platforms can enhance creative expression and provide educational content that supports academic growth. For children with special interests or those who feel isolated, online communities can offer a sense of belonging and support. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="115028734" title="I was a teen dad on food stamps. Now that I&amp;#39;m a multimillionaire, teaching my kids to appreciate money is really difficult." mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>As we continue to integrate technology into every aspect of our lives, understanding and mitigating its impacts on our youngest members becomes ever more crucial. F or parents and caregivers, the key lies in setting boundaries, fostering open communication, and guiding children to navigate the digital world thoughtfully. Australia’s stance might just be the catalyst needed to inspire similar protective measures worldwide, ensuring that children can enjoy the benefits of technology without falling prey to its pitfalls.

Scrolling to doom? Here's what happens to kids when they are exposed to social media early in their lives

The internet insists on calling a spade a spade. The internet will also pompously convince you that they have personally worked with a variety of spades and that they intimately understand how these fantastic tools curve precisely around their working edges for maximum utility. However, any amount or manner of squinting will also reveal that the tool they’re referring to, is in fact, a shovel. Despite the fact that humans today indubitably can access information like before in history, there is still a terrible misinformation pandemic afoot. When it isn’t producing dizzying Mandela Effects to reconcile with, it is mobilising the public with pitchforks, rallying them for a cause they didn’t care about until a week ago. A similar incident transpired during the recent 2024 Paris Olympics, where the identity of Algerian boxer <keyword id="22621786" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="imane-khelif" source="keywords">Imane Khelif</keyword> came under intense scrutiny after her historic gold — with some media outlets and influential personalities also aiding the uproar. Since the initial row dragged in high-profile figures such as <keyword id="19903807" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="elon-musk" source="keywords">Elon Musk</keyword> and Trump, a leaked medical report has claimed to “confirm” Imane’s male-ness. This renewed public discourse on the matter, with various Indian media outlets once again casually labelling the athlete as “a man”. For example, a headline in the Hindustan Times ran, “Imane <keyword id="22633929" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="khelif" source="keywords">Khelif</keyword>, Paris Olympics medalist, confirmed a man in leaked medical report”, and another article by Livemint claimed Khelif was "confirmed as man" following the leak of her medical details. Similar headlines were being carried by a host of mainstream outlets, including The Indian Express and Moneycontrol. Science suggests that there is a great deal of nuance to gender and identity, concepts that are misrepresented due to a lack of gender studies in traditional education. Reporting Khelif to be a man, based solely on reported biological characteristics is highly misleading when discussing both the medical and societal implications of gender identity. To clear the confusion, let’s look at the official definitions of gender, explore Khelif’s reported medical condition, and review the consequences of how media coverage can amplify misunderstandings and bias. <h2>Where the new controversy started</h2>The recent controversy began when a leaked medical report indicated that Khelif has XY chromosomes, internal testes, and lacks a uterus, potentially due to a rare genetic condition called 5-alpha reductase deficiency. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112218392" title="Imane Khelif: Is it accurate to label this female-born boxer as ‘biological male’ or ‘transgender’?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>This was nothing new, as a similar report had helped Khelif become the subject of substantial media and public scrutiny in the past as well. During the Olympics, however, statements from high-profile figures like former US President <keyword id="19918985" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="donald-trump" source="keywords">Donald Trump</keyword> and author <keyword id="20260304" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="jk-rowling" source="keywords">JK Rowling</keyword> — who insisted that Khelif was an ineligible man — helped catapult public discourse on gender and sports to astronomical levels. In response, Khelif filed a complaint in France against Trump, Rowling, and Elon Musk, citing cyber harassment and arguing that the comments about her identity amount to public harassment. Despite the reports and the outrage, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has upheld her eligibility to compete in the women’s division, acknowledging her identity as a woman. They based their decision on her lifelong identification as female and her history of competing as such, setting an example of inclusivity while recognising the complexities of gender and biological diversity. <h2>Difference between sex and gender</h2>Understanding Khelif’s case requires better clarity on the terms “sex” and “gender.” While the public may use them interchangeably, there are important differences that are rooted in many fields of science. Sex typically refers to biological differences — chromosomes, hormones, and reproductive anatomy. Gender, however, encompasses the social roles, behaviours, and identities that individuals embody, which may or may not align with their biological sex. A helpful way to think about this distinction is by analogy. Consider how some people have genetically blue eyes while others have brown eyes — these are inherent biological characteristics. However, people might choose to wear contact lenses to change their eye colour, much like how gender identity can vary depending on how individuals view themselves and how they are seen within society. Another popular — albeit somewhat controversial — manner of comparing the two is to think of a person’s sex as their “hardware”, while their gender is the “software” they run on. As such, a person’s biology might suggest certain physical traits, but their gender identity could align differently based on personal and cultural factors. To help them feel more at ease with their bodies, many individuals often undergo hormone therapy and counselling. Some even opt for “gender-affirming” surgeries to modify their physical appearances to match up with the gender they feel the most comfortable in. It is also key to recognise that, for some people, gender identity is flexible and can evolve over time. While biological sex generally remains constant, some people may feel more connected to a specific gender at certain points in their lives, while at other times, they feel aligned with another. This concept, called gender fluidity, shows that gender identity isn't always fixed, and is instead shaped by a blend of inner feelings and external experiences, meaning it can shift naturally over time. Supporting this fluidity helps people feel accepted and understood. <h2>Media language and its implications</h2>Due to these reasons, it is problematic when media outlets refer to Khelif as a "man" or "confirmed as man" in their headlines, which is often the only section of the news most read nowadays. These titles communicate to the general public that biology alone dictates gender identity, a stance inconsistent with widely accepted definitions and understandings of gender today. For instance, even the <keyword id="19896311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="world-health-organization" source="keywords">World Health Organization</keyword> (WHO) differentiates between sex and gender based on the biological and socially constructed characteristics discussed earlier, insisting that calling someone a man based on sex-linked traits alone oversimplifies their identity and disregards personal self-identification. Not just the WHO, major organisations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and the United Nations differentiate sex and gender in a similar manner. Science aside, news outlets have a responsibility to handle sensitive issues like gender identity with nuance and respect. While transparency in reporting is essential, invasive coverage of Khelif's private medical details and sensationalised labelling may infringe upon her privacy. Moreover, by framing her gender identity in simplistic terms, the media risks reinforcing stereotypes and marginalising individuals with differences in sex development or gender diversity. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112240010" title="Dutee Chand extends support to under-fire boxer Imane Khalif following controversial win in Paris Olympics" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Overall, such rare, unique, and complex cases must be handled by the appropriate and informed authorities and should not be subject to a media trial. Ethically, a more respectful approach would involve using gender-neutral terms when discussing Khelif’s eligibility and refraining from language that disregards her self-identification as a woman. Such reporting would be in line with journalistic guidelines that emphasise minimising harm and respecting the dignity of individuals, especially those in vulnerable or marginalised communities. <h2>What even is 5-Alpha Reductase Deficiency?</h2>The condition reportedly attributed to Khelif, 5-alpha reductase deficiency, is a rare genetic condition. Individuals with this condition have XY chromosomes, but their bodies do not effectively convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an androgen responsible for male genital development. Consequently, people with this condition often appear female or have ambiguous genitalia at birth, although they might undergo masculinising changes at puberty. Notably, people with 5-alpha reductase deficiency are typically assigned female at birth in societies with limited access to advanced genetic testing. Even Imane’s assigned gender was 'female' at birth, as per the official birth certificate shared by her family after the initial controversy during the Paris Olympics. Many of these individuals live as women and some self-identify as female throughout their lives. Thus, it would be misleading to categorically label them as male solely due to their chromosomal makeup, as this does not reflect their lived gender experience. The controversy surrounding Imane Khelif raises essential questions about gender identity and eligibility criteria in competitive sports. Many governing bodies are grappling with these issues, and it is clear that a single set of criteria may not accommodate the complexities of gender. Striking a balance between fair competition and the inclusion of all athletes will require policies informed by medical insights and a compassionate understanding of gender identity. Moving forward, it is essential that media, sports organisations, and the public alike strive to understand gender identity as an intricate intersection of biology, identity, and culture. Disclaimer: This article uses she/her pronouns considering that Imane identifies herself as female and a woman, and we were unable to find any public information on her preferred pronouns. However, this does not imply any form of judgement on the athlete’s gender identity. The decision on whether such athletes should be allowed to participate in competitions must be left to appropriate authorities and should not be made on social or digital media.

Imane Khelif Olympic gold controversy resurfaces. Is it accurate to term the Algerian boxer a “confirmed man”?

<keyword id="22782965" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ashima-Gulati" source="keywords">Ashima Gulati</keyword> is a lawyer turned <keyword id="22782966" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="policy-consultant" source="keywords">policy consultant</keyword> with over 7 years of experience in India's public policy arena. Starting off with a B.A.LL.B. (Hons.) from the National Law Institute University in Bhopal, Ashima kicked off her career as a securities and capital markets lawyer in Mumbai. Craving a deeper understanding of India's socio-economic landscape, she made a switch to the development and policy sector. Since her stint in Mumbai, Ashima's had quite the journey, including a two-year fellowship where she taught 70 students from a low-income community and co-founding a non-profit to improve healthcare access for marginalised communities. More recently, while Ashima was working as an independent consultant, collaborating with government, non-profit, and private organisations to build climate resilience and adaptation strategies for these groups, she went on something of a spree and applied to 10 master’s programs that combined general policy insights with climate change and sustainable development. But here’s the kicker: she got into ALL of them and bagged over USD 200,000 in <keyword id="19897091" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="scholarships" source="keywords">scholarships</keyword>! The impressive list of colleges and universities she got accepted into include Oxford, Columbia, <keyword id="191548" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cornell" source="Orion">Cornell</keyword>, <keyword id="142498" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="university-of-chicago" source="Orion">University of Chicago</keyword>'s Harris School of Public Policy, The Fletcher School at Tufts University and Geneva Graduate Institute, to name a few. As Ashima prepares to leave for Oxford, where she will pursue Master of Public Policy, we got in touch with her to ask her how she managed to achieve this monumental feat. While she works towards her ever-evolving passion for public policy and sustainable development, other aspirants can probably take a page or two out of her book! Ashima attributes her success in applying to international universities to the a few unique aspects. Here are five such major factors that helped her application stand out from the crowd in her own words: Demonstrate the uniqueness of candidature through evidence “I believe it is of utmost importance to be able to substantiate the claims that one makes in their applications with respect to their profile, work experiences, leadership qualities, and most importantly, the impact that one has created in the society. Since my college days, I have maintained a detailed record of all initiatives and opportunities I have engaged in, documenting my involvement thoroughly. For my master’s applications, I included such documentation through publications, data evidence, and other relevant sources. Additionally, I encouraged my recommenders to provide evidence supporting the qualities they intended to highlight in their letters. This approach fosters transparency and credibility in the application, avoiding the use of superlatives and ensuring grounded presentation of one’s profile.” Showcase alignment with the specific program and the university “It is essential to thoroughly research and understand the focus and advantages of the specific program before drafting application essays. This ensures that you can effectively align your profile and professional experiences with the program and the university. The application should clearly demonstrate how the program’s unique features will enhance your knowledge, skills, and career goals. In my view, the applications should be highly tailored to the specific program and university to which one is applying to.” Be honest with one’s limitations and gaps in current knowledge and skill set “In my view, there has to be a demonstrated need for upskilling and applying to the program. One should be able to discuss the obstacles and hindrances one has experienced in their current profile, and a genuine need to upskill to overcome such challenges. Additionally, the application should also discuss how the program/university will help the applicant in addressing such challenges, and in helping one grow in their professional journey.” Connect with alumni and articulate well-considered future goals “Applicants should clearly outline their professional goals, both short-term and long-term, within their applications. It is important to demonstrate that you have engaged with alumni to gain insights into the opportunities provided by the program and the university. Additionally, the application should detail how the program and the university will support you in achieving these advanced goals. This approach reflects thorough research and preparation, showcasing the uniqueness of the program and university as your commitment to leveraging these opportunities effectively.” Discuss your contribution to the growth of the program/university “Many applicants overlook this aspect in their applications. It is crucial to articulate how you will contribute to the program and university both as a current student and as an alumnus. This demonstrates a strong commitment to the institution. You should describe how you plan to leverage your skills and knowledge in specific areas, such as conferences or journals, to contribute meaningfully to the institution. This reflects your genuine interest and dedication to the institute, and a mutual relationship that you wish to nurture with the institute.” While the pointers Ashima shares are undoubtedly helpful, she stresses on how its the candidate profile that matters most. You can check out her profile <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashima-gulati/?originalSubdomain=in" data-type="tilCustomLink">here</a>. Furthermore, as dedicated as Ashima is towards her cause and her <keyword id="19907717" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="education" source="keywords">education</keyword> at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, she acknowledges that letting go of the financial stability that her career in law afforded her was not an easy choice to make. However, these acceptances served as affirmations that traditional notions of what a career must look like are evolving, she asserted. She now knows that taking risks in one’s career can be rewarding if done right! Going forward, Ashima is committed to using her education to advance her career in the public policy sector with the goal of contributing to the well-being and uplifting of marginalised communities, mostly by addressing the intersections of education, healthcare and climate change. And we wish her all the very best! <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112316410" title="I moved from the US to Germany for college. Tuition is mostly free, but I miss the American school spirit." mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>

This Amritsar resident got into Oxford, Columbia, Cornell, and 10 major international programs with over Rs. 1.6 crore in scholarships! She shares 5 tips for fellow applicants

New Delhi, Congress president <keyword id="63771" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="mallikarjun-kharge" source="Orion">Mallikarjun Kharge</keyword> on Monday launched the party's crowdfunding campaign here, asking people to join the fight against unemployment and rising costs. Kharge donated a sum of Rs 1,38,000 from his salary to launch the "Donate for Desh" campaign in the presence of party leaders and general secretaries K C Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh and treasurer <keyword id="50339" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="ajay-maken" source="Orion">Ajay Maken</keyword>. "It is a very happy day that our party leaders have prepared an App. I feel this is the first time that the Congress is seeking the help of common people to build the country," he told reporters after the launch. As part of the campaign, the party will receive money from small donors, he said and added, "If you keep working by depending on the rich, then tomorrow we would have to agree to their programmes and policies". Kharge said the Congress is already working for the interests of the poor, Scheduled Castes, backwards and they have been helping us in the past too. "Through 'Donate for Desh', we will work to take the country forward by taking help from general public. The Congress always got help from general public. <keyword id="6355532" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="mahatma-gandhi" source="Orion">Mahatma Gandhi</keyword> also got Independence for the country with the help of people of the country," he said. People will in one or two days voluntarily come forward and donate, he said. "We will collect donation from common people and join them in this fight.We can assure people that there is only one party which is fighting for the poor," he said. In a post on X, the Congress said, "Beyond a campaign, it's a commitment to champion the rights of marginalised communities, bridge disparities, and stand as a formidable opposition against a government favouring the affluent". "Join us in the fight against unprecedented unemployment and rising costs. Stand with the Indian National Congress as it strides beyond its 138th year, stronger and more determined than ever. Be a Changemaker, Contribute," the party said. Maken said anyone can contribute to the party by giving a donation of Rs 138, 1,380 or 1,38,000, marking the completion of 138 years of the Indian National Congress.

Cong launches crowdfunding campaign 'Donate for Desh' to help build country

New Delhi: In the world's largest democracy, every five years, a spectacular theatrical performance unfolds, captivating crores of people with its vibrancy, diversity, and sheer scale. Yes, we're talking about the <keyword id="19923279" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="lok-sabha-elections" source="keywords">Lok Sabha Elections</keyword> in India. And we have the dates now for the grand finale: June 4! The Election Commission of India on Saturday announced the dates for the general elections to be held from April 19 to June 1 in seven phases. Chief Election Commissioner <keyword id="20110344" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rajiv-kumar" source="keywords">Rajiv Kumar</keyword> announced today that the results will be announced on June 4. Phase 1 voting will be held on April 19, Phase 2 on April 26, Phase 3 on May 7, Phase 4 on May 13, Phase 5 on May 20, Phase 6 on May 25, and Phase 7 on June 1. “We will take democracy to every corner of the country. It is our promise to deliver a national election in a manner that we... remain a beacon for democracy around the world,” said the Chief Election Commissioner. <div type="image" title="Polling schedule" agency="ANI" msid="108550459" hostid="261" sizebytes="17144" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Polling schedule (ANI)&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> The tenure of the present <keyword id="19895394" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="lok-sabha" source="keywords">Lok Sabha</keyword> ends on June 16 and a new House will have to be constituted before that. As the tenure of Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Odisha assemblies will also end in June, these states will get an early taste of the ‘one nation, one election’ process, wherein voters will be casting votes for both Lok Sabha and assembly elections. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="subhead" text="Model code of conduct kicks in">Model code of conduct kicks in</cmsannotation> With the announcement of election dates, the model code of conduct comes into immediate effect. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar asked all political parties and their leaders to strictly adhere to the poll code. The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) mandates that no party or candidate shall indulge in any activity which may aggravate existing differences, create mutual hatred or cause tension between different castes and communities, religious or linguistic, according to the set of guidelines issued by the EC. It lists out the dos and don'ts regarding general conduct, meetings, processions, conduct of parties and their candidates on polling day, polling booth, observers, party in power and guidelines on election manifestos. According to the guidelines, all parties and candidates shall avoid scrupulously all activities which are "corrupt practices" and offences under the election law, such as bribing of voters, intimidation of voters, impersonation of voters, canvassing within 100 meters of polling stations, holding public meetings during the period of 48 hours ending with the hour fixed for the close of the poll, and the transport and conveyance of voters to and from the polling station. Political parties and candidates shall ensure that their supporters do not create obstructions in or break up meetings and processions organized by other parties. As soon as the poll code comes into effect, the party in power be it at the Centre or in the State or states concerned, shall ensure that no cause is given for any complaint that it has used its official position for the purposes of its election campaign. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="subhead" text="Major players and issues">Major players and issues</cmsannotation> Undoubtedly, the scale and magnitude of a nationwide election in a country like India involve numerous complex considerations. However, the major political parties are hoping to narrow down the voter’s priorities to a few major foundational aspirations on which powerful campaigns can be built. Prime Minister <keyword id="19895781" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="narendra-modi" source="keywords">Narendra Modi</keyword>, and his party <keyword id="19931558" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bharatiya-janata-party" source="keywords">Bharatiya Janata Party</keyword> (BJP), are confident of reelection for a third consecutive term. They have pitched 'Modi Ki Guarantee' as the main theme of his campaign. PM's website describes it as a guarantee for the development of youth, empowerment of women, welfare of farmers, and all those marginalised and vulnerable who have been ignored for decades. In a letter to the citizens of India on March 15, the Prime Minister noted, “The trust and support of 140 crore Indians inspires and motivates me. The transformation that has taken place in the lives of the people is the biggest achievement of our government over the last 10 years. These transformative outcomes are the result of the sincere efforts made by a determined government to improve the quality of life for the poor, farmers, youth and women.” BJP is building its campaign by highlighting the welfare schemes of the government, infrastructural development across the country, and the rejuvenation of the country’s cultural heritage. The major opposition party <keyword id="19895371" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="congress" source="keywords">Congress</keyword>, on the other hand, is banking on its <keyword id="20366194" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nyay" source="keywords">Nyay</keyword> guarantees to woo voters. The grand old party saw some success in the state elections of Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana when it pitched such 'Nyay' guarantees to the people. For the Lok Sabha polls, the party has put forward its 5 guarantees aimed at ensuring justice for youth, farmers, women, labourers, and participatory justice. The INDIA bloc, including the Congress, has been raising the issue of unemployment and rising prices of essential commodities. They have stated repeatedly that the lack of jobs is the single biggest issue and sought to corner the government over the issue. The BJP has hit back citing job growth and a fast-growing economy. Other major poll issues include electoral bonds, abrogation of Article 370, <keyword id="19963301" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="caa" source="keywords">CAA</keyword>, Uniform Civil Code, Ayodhya Ram Mandir, farmer protests for legal guarantee of MSP, and the Viksit Bharat vision of the government. Overall, India is poised to see an enthralling clash of ideologies, ideas, and personalities throughout the election season as the EC has opened the race for ruling the most populous country on Earth. (With inputs from ANI and PTI)

Elections 2024: Lok Sabha general elections in 7 phases from April 19, results on June 4; Here’s all you need to know

<ul><li>A repository will offer a consolidated platform for diverse <keyword id="6355729" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="data" source="Orion">data</keyword>, negating the necessity for lenders to source information from multiple channels. </li><li>Such a repository may also help in curbing fraudulent activities. </li><li><keyword id="30067" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rbi" source="Orion">RBI</keyword> also announced that it will come up with guidelines to govern <keyword id="19753861" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="web-aggregation" source="Orion">web aggregation</keyword> of <keyword id="789627" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="loan-products" source="Orion">loan products</keyword>. </li></ul>The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed the establishment of a <keyword id="19753447" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="fintech-repository" source="Orion">fintech repository</keyword>. “This will be operationalised by the Reserve Bank Innovation Hub in April 2024 or earlier. FinTechs would be encouraged to provide relevant information voluntarily to this Repository,” said Governor Shaktikanta Das while announcing the Monetary Policy Committee decisions on Friday. The RBI also announced that it will come up with detailed guidelines to govern web aggregation of loan products. The fintech repository holds the potential for various improvements in the . Firstly, it promises enhanced access to fintech information, offering a consolidated platform for diverse data, negating the necessity for lenders to source information from multiple channels. This streamlining of processes not only reduces operational costs but also significantly augments efficiency within the fintech ecosystem. Additionally, the repository's comprehensive compilation of an individual's fintech profile facilitates better credit risk assessment for lenders. By providing a holistic view of a borrower's financial health, it empowers lenders to make more informed credit decisions. Consequently, this informed decision-making has the potential to reduce loan defaults, thus fostering a healthier credit environment overall. “The proposed establishment of a repository by April signals a forward-looking approach, aiming to enhance the efficiency and transparency of financial systems on a macro scale,” says Sheersham Gupta, Director and Senior Technical Analyst at Rupeezy, a trading platform. Another benefit lies in the repository's ability to curb fraudulent activities. By enabling cross-institutional analysis of fintech data, it acts as a tool in identifying and preventing fraudulent transactions. This not only safeguards the interests of lenders but also bolsters trust and stability within the fintech system, benefitting both lenders and borrowers alike. One of the key aims of the repository is to bring about greater financial inclusion, particularly for marginalised communities and businesses. By offering lenders a more accurate and comprehensive assessment of an individual or entity's financial standing, it lays the groundwork for increased accessibility to credit and other fintech services, potentially bridging the gap for those underserved in the fintech domain. Lastly, the repository will provide the regulator with access to a vast dataset of financial information and will play a key role in improving regulatory oversight. Says Anand Agrawal, Co-Founder and Chief Product and Technology Officer , Credgenics, a debt collection platform, "The approach to encouraging voluntary contributions from fintechs will empower regulators with real-time insights and enable informed, agile, and risk-mitigating decision-making. This initiative is a crucial step in the RBI’s approach to streamlining the regulatory framework for fintechs.” With comprehensive insights, regulators can more effectively monitor the fintech system, identify potential risks, and implement proactive measures, contributing to a more robust, stable, and resilient fintech framework.

Fintech repository to be set up by April 2024, says Shaktikanta Das

<ul><li>Leena Gandhi Tewari, the chairperson of USV, is a philanthropist who supports a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and social development. </li><li>Manju D. Gupta and her family are known for their philanthropic endeavours, with a strong emphasis on education and healthcare. </li><li>Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, the founder and chairperson of Biocon, is a dedicated philanthropist with a focus on environmental sustainability. </li></ul>Women have not only reached the pinnacle of success in their respective business ventures, they have also done their bit to give back to society. We take a look at India’s most <keyword id="19362296" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="generous-women" source="Orion">generous women</keyword> according to the Edelgive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2023. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Rohini Nilekani" comment="Subhead" text="Rohini Nilekani"><keyword id="36737" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rohini-Nilekani" source="Orion">Rohini Nilekani</keyword></cmsannotation> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Donation: ₹170 crore" comment="Subhead" text="Donation: ₹170 crore">Donation: ₹170 crore</cmsannotation> Rohini Nilekani is an Indian philanthropist who supports initiatives in education, water, sanitation, and civic engagement. She is the co-founder of EkStep and the Chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies. She believes that education is the key to solving many of India's problems. She is the tenth most generous person in India, in a list that also has her husband Nandan Nilekeni at the eighth place. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Anju Aga and family" comment="Subhead" text="Anju Aga and family">Anju Aga and family</cmsannotation> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Subhead" text="Donation: ₹23 crore">Donation: ₹23 crore</cmsannotation> Anu Aga, former Chairperson of Thermax, is a prominent philanthropist and Chair of the Akanksha Foundation, an NGO providing education to underprivileged children in Mumbai and Pune. Thermax is also committed to social responsibility and sustainable energy solutions, with initiatives in education, healthcare, and environmental protection. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Leena Gandhi Tiwari Donation: ₹23 crore" comment="Subhead" text="Leena Gandhi TiwariDonation: ₹23 crore"><keyword id="19362298" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="leena-gandhi-tiwari" source="Orion">Leena Gandhi Tiwari</keyword> Donation: ₹23 crore</cmsannotation> Leena Gandhi Tewari, the chairperson of USV, is a philanthropist who supports a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, and social development. She is the founder of the Dr Sushila Gandhi Centre for Social Development, which provides education and training to underprivileged women and girls in Vakola, Maharashtra. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Manju D Gupta and familyDonation: ₹14 crore" comment="Subhead" text="Manju D Gupta and familyDonation: ₹14 crore">Manju D Gupta and family Donation: ₹14 crore</cmsannotation> Manju D Gupta and her family are known for their philanthropic endeavours. Their contributions span various sectors, with a strong emphasis on education and healthcare. They have established educational institutions, scholarships, and medical facilities, making quality education and healthcare accessible to many. The family has also championed social causes, supporting initiatives that empower marginalised communities. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Vembu Radha Donation: ₹14 crore" comment="Subhead" text="Vembu RadhaDonation: ₹14 crore">Vembu Radha Donation: ₹14 crore</cmsannotation> Vembu Radha, a prominent figure in the technology world, is best known for her role at Zoho Corporation. As a key executive, she has played a pivotal role in the company's growth and success. Beyond her professional achievements, Radha is a dedicated philanthropist, actively involved in various charitable initiatives. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Renu Munjal and family Donation: ₹ 9crore" comment="Subhead" text="Renu Munjal and familyDonation: ₹ 9crore">Renu Munjal and family Donation: ₹ 9crore</cmsannotation> Renu Munjal, along with her family, is renowned for their association with Hero MotoCorp, a global leader in the two-wheeler industry. Beyond their corporate success, the Munjal family has a strong focus on philanthropy. They have established numerous educational institutions and healthcare facilities, actively promoting social welfare and empowerment. Their commitment to philanthropy, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare, has transformed lives, underlining their dedication to creating a more equitable and prosperous society. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Donation:: ₹ 9crore" comment="Subhead" text="Kiran Mazumdar-ShawDonation:: ₹ 9crore">Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Donation:: ₹ 9crore</cmsannotation> Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, the founder and chairperson of Biocon Limited, is a dedicated philanthropist with a focus on environmental sustainability. She chairs the Biocon Foundation, established in 2014, which supports eco-friendly initiatives such as renewable energy, water conservation, waste management, and environmental education. Mazumdar-Shaw strongly advocates for corporate responsibility in protecting the environment.

Meet India’s most generous women

<ul><li>In 2009, Reddy contested from Kodangal assembly constituency and won the election as a Telugu Desam Party (TDP) candidate.</li><li>Along with 12 other MLAs, Reddy resigned from the TDP and joined the Indian National <keyword id="1575" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="congress" source="Orion">Congress</keyword> (INC) in 2017.</li><li>In June 2021, Reddy was appointed as the president of <keyword id="68884" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="telangana" source="Orion">Telangana</keyword> Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC), the party's state unit in Telangana. </li></ul>Revenge, they say, is best served cold. And Revanth Reddy of the Congress Party has done just that. Months before Telangana went to polls, Congress leader A Revanth Reddy was detained by the police in Hyderabad during a protest he was leading along with his party’s workers against <keyword id="5269" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="chief-minister" source="Orion">Chief Minister</keyword> K Chandrsekhar Reddy (KCR). It was not the first time that he was arrested by the Telangana police. An emotional Revanth Reddy once said that he would never forget the fact that he was in jail when his daughter was getting married. Call him the product of a political witch-hunt if you will, but this win is the best vindication Revanth Reddy could have looked for. Sunday’s victory should heal some of Revanth Reddy’s hurt, who is now all set to be the next Chief Minister of the southern state. KCR, who contested from two seats this time round, was trailing Revanth Reddy in Kamareddy seat by more than a few thousand votes. Big celebrations were seen at the residence of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president Revanth Reddy's residence and party headquarters in Gandhi Bhavan, after the Election Commission data showed that Congress had won in India’s youngest state. Congress supporters were dancing amid drumbeats outside the residence of Reddy, a front-runner for the post of chief minister. He is currently serving as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Malkajgiri constituency in the 17th Lok Sabha. Early political career Born on November 8, 1967, in Kondareddy Palli, Mahbubnagar district, Telangana, Reddy's political journey began during his student days. His active involvement in student politics nurtured his passion for serving the community and advocating for the rights of the marginalised. His early political forays include contesting local body elections in 2006 and emerging victorious as a ZPTC member from Midjil mandal as an independent candidate. Reddy's political career gained momentum in 2007 when he was elected as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) from the Hyderabad seat as an independent candidate. His independent spirit and ability to connect with the masses caught the attention of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu, leading to Reddy's induction into the TDP in 2008. His association with the TDP proved to be a turning point in his political trajectory. In 2009, he contested from Kodangal assembly constituency and won the election as a TDP candidate. His electoral success continued in 2014 when he retained his Kodangal assembly seat, cementing his position as a prominent political figure in Telangana. A shift in allegiance In 2017, a significant shift occurred in Reddy's political allegiance. Along with 12 other MLAs, he resigned from the TDP and joined the Indian National Congress (INC). This move was driven by ideological differences and a belief that the INC could better serve the interests of the people of Telangana. Reddy's decision to join the INC marked a new chapter in his political career. He contested the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2018_Telangana_Legislative_Assembly_election">2018 Telangana Assembly elections</a> from Kodangal as a Congress candidate and lost to TRS candidate Patnam Narender Reddy. He contested from the same constituency in the 2019 general elections and emerged victorious, securing his place in the 17th Lok Sabha. In June 2021, Reddy was appointed as the president of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC), the party's state unit in Telangana. This responsibility entrusted him with spearheading the party's campaign in the 2023 Telangana <keyword id="6372146" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="assembly-elections" source="Orion">Assembly elections</keyword>. Beyond his political accomplishments, Reddy is also known for his active family life. He is married to Geetha, niece of former union minister Jaipal Reddy. The couple has a daughter, Nymisha. (With inputs from IANS and ANI)

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