BHUMI Chennai

Dronacharya & Ekalayva - Leadership development program

2010-04-10T09:59:00.001-07:00

DnE is experiential learning leadership program which pairs underprivileged children with volunteers who act as their mentors and role models. The program helps the children realise their potential and transforms the volunteers into more socially aware leaders.

Why

• To enrich the lives of underprivileged children (Mentees) through a caring relationship with a personal mentor who will support, encourage and build their self-confidence.

• To groom the leadership qualities and the sense of social responsibility in young volunteers (Mentors), our country's future leaders, by exposing them to some of the most pressing social problems of our country.

How

The program is modelled on mentorship programs like the ‘Big Brothers Big Sisters’ (USA), Perach (Israel) and Dronacharya & Ekalyva (Hyderabad, India).

Tutors conduct classes for small batches for four hours every week, helping the children build a strong academic foundation and providing an impetus to continued education through improved academic performances.

Mentors meet mentees for two hours every week and assist them with school or home work, listen to their problems and support them in challenges they encounter. In the process, Mentors instil self confidence and the ability to solve one’s own problem in the children.

Mentors will undergo Bhumi certified training program in personal mastery, Communication, Problem solving and leadership and group learning cycles developed in collaboration with renowned experts from across the country.

Mentor’s Gain: Communication skills, Leadership, Inclusiveness, Social Sensitivity
Mentee’s Gain: Absenteeism decreases, Academic grades, Pass rate, children pursuing higher education, entering organised labour etc increases.

The advantages for children: Statistics Show that children with mentors are: (Source: www.ppv.org)
• 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs
• 27% less likely to begin using alcohol
• 53% less likely to skip school
• 33% less likely to engage in violence

The advantages for Young Volunteers: Young people who mentor benefit in the following areas: (Source: Boyer 1996)
• Improved employability as a result of better communication skills
• Develop leadership skills
• More patient and understanding demeanour.
• Enhanced cognitive and moral development
• Respect and compassion towards fellow human beings.

National Bravery Awards 2009

2010-02-06T12:31:00.001-08:00

The 'National Bravery Awards for Indian Children' are some of the prestigious civil awards in India, which are presented to the Indian children for meritorious acts of bravery against all obstacles.

The children, eight girls and 13 boys, have been selected by a high powered committee in recognition for their outstanding deeds of bravery and meritorious service. Two Awards will be given posthumously.

The coveted Bharat Award will be given to 13-year-old Gaurav Singh Saini of Haryana, who saved approximately 50 to 60 people in a stampede at the Naina Devi temple.

Karan Nishad of Uttar Pradesh has been selected for the Sanjay Chopra Award, the 11-year-old boy had saved five persons from drowning.

The prestigious Geeta Chopra Award will be conferred on 10-year-old Maibam Prity Devi of Manipur, who saved several lives when miscreants hurled a grenade inside their shop in Mayang Imphal Bazar.

Late Ranu Mishra (10 years) of Uttar Pradesh will get the Bapu Gaidhani Award posthumously for displaying exemplary courage in saving her brother and his friend from drowning.

Vijith V. of Kerala and Narendrasinh Natvarsinh Solanki of Gujarat will also get Bapu Gaidhani Awards for their acts of bravery. Vijith had saved four children from drowning in river Kallada while Narendrasinh had saved his father from the clutches of a crocodile in river Dhadhar.

Along with courageous acts there are instances of bold decisions and revolts against prevailing social-evil. Three girls from West Bengal-Rekha Kalindi (11 years), Sunita Mahato (11 years) and Afsana Khatun (12 years) refused to get married at early age and wanted to continue their studies.

The other recipients are: Uddesh R. Ramnathkar (Goa), Dijekshon Syiem, Thoi Thoi Khumanthem (Manipur), Zonunsanga, Lalrammawia (both from Mizoram), Sujith R., Amal Antony, Krishnapriya K., Sujith Kumar P.(all from Kerala), Master Dijekshon Syiem (Meghalaya), Vaishaliben Sambhubhai Solanki (Gujarat) and Yogesh Kumar Jangid (Rajasthan).

The Sanjay Chopra Award and Geeta Chopra Award are two of the most coveted awards among the National Bravery Awards. The awards were instituted in the year 1978 in the memory of the two brave Chopra children, who laid their lives while confronting their kidnappers. These two awards are presented to a boy and girl, respectively for their acts of bravery. The Bharat Award is considered the highest award among all the National Bravery Awards. This award was incepted in the year 1987 and the other prestigious award in this category, named the Bapu Gayadhani Award was started to be presented from 1988. The names of the award winning children are announced on 14th November, every year and the children receive the award from the Prime Minister of India, on a later date. A reception is also organised in their honour by the President of India and they take part in the Republic Day Parade at Rajpath, New Delhi, on 26th January, as well.

The National Bravery Award was a brainchild of India's first Prime Minister, Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru, who thought about it on 2nd October, 1957, while watching a performance at Delhi's Ramlila grounds, at the Red Fort. An accident occurred in that programme, when a fire broke out in a Shamiana, due to a short circuit. A 14 year-old scout, named Harish Chandra reacted bravely at that time and he instantly ripped open the burning Shamiana, using his knife. He saved hundreds of people who were trapped inside, with this act. Pundit Nehru was stunned and inspired with the brave act of that child and he instructed the authorities to constitute an award to honour brave children from all over the country. Action was taken immediately and Harish Chandra became the first one to receive this award.

The awardees, who will receive a medal, certificate and cash, are selected by a committee comprising representatives of various ministries, non-governmental organisations and Indian Council for Child Welfare members.

Eligible awardees are also granted financial assistance until they complete their schooling. Since its inception in 1957, the bravery awards have been given to 777 children, including 554 boys and 223 girls.

Siragugal '09 - When Bhumi spread colour, joy and more!

2009-12-22T05:06:00.000-08:00

Siragugal 2009 was a one day Art, cultural Fest held on 15 Nov, 2009. 796 children from classes 1-12 of 26 orphanages in Chennai, Kanchipuram and Thiruvallur Districts participated. The event consisted of 16 different competitions for three age categories, a science exhibition competition, fun events including a magic show and a theatre workshop for the children.

In spite of the heavy rains the children made it to the the venue, Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Kilpauk thanks to the buses Sponsored by Velammal Educational Trust. Siragugal'09 was inaugurated by Ms.Archana Raghuram (Cognizant Outreach), Mr.Kannan (Chinmaya Organisation for Rural Development), and Mr. Mukesh (playback singer of ‘where’s the party tonight’ fame). An electrifying performance by Mr.Mukesh and Bhumian Ms.Aakansha set the tone for the day getting the children and volunteers into a frenzy.

The children then spread out across the venue as six events started simultaneously. The morning session consisted of events like group song, solo dance, quiz, English and Tamil elocution, Tamil essay writing, Tamil poetry, drawing-painting, mimicry and monoact. While Siragu Montessori School delivered a prize winning traditional villu paatu during the group song event, many enthusiastic children drew and painted their message to society (“Say no to child labour”, “Give life by donating blood”, “Educate children” and the like).

In the meanwhile, the six game stalls including balloon shooting etc and the Science Exhibition which had models prepared by Bhumi's Little Einsteins Team and also those brought in by the children for the competition were thrown open to all participants. The children and Bhumi volunteers displayed their scientific models, and actively explained the theoretical concepts to the other children.

Immediately before lunch Magician Elango‘s show, a surprise element for the children doubled up the energy and the excitement in the auditorium. Lunch was sponsored by Cognizant Outreach and Food King.

Post-lunch events commenced at the respective venues – Tamil skit, soap carving, pot painting, rangoli, group dance, and solo song. Despite the registrations being closed before the event, groups of children turned up with requests to participate in art events like soap carving and pot painting turning the venue into a colour riot! Meanwhile at the auditorium, an outstanding performance from a child who participated in group dance was asked to perform Solo on demand. His moves to the title song from the movie Villu had the audience on their feet for a standing ovation! Definitely a moment that will be remembered by all those who were present there!

The valedictory function marked the close of Siragugal’09. Our Chief Guest ‘Food King’ Mr. Sarath Babu delivered an inspirational speech to the children. The guests of honour for the evening were Mr. Balasubramanian and Mr. Sattainathan (SBI, one of our sponsors). The guests distributed the certificates and medals to all the prize winners.

And the Awards went to!

Best Children's Home Rolling Trophy - Bala Mandir Kamaraj Trust, whose children made a clean sweep at Siragugal’09

Best Participating Children's Home Trophy’ - Indian Council for Child Welfare

Best Individual Performer, Male -- Mst. Udayakumar from SISTWA who stole hundreds of hearts with his realistic mimicry concept that revolved around the dancing styles of actors Kamal Hassan, Vikram and Vijay

Individual Best Performer, Female - Ms. Nancy Lavanya from St. Thomas children’s home for winning the most number of awards

Best Actor - Mst.Manikandan from CHILD Children's Home

Volunteers from Chinmaya Organisation for Rural Development (Thamaraipakkam), Cognizant’s Outreach, Infosys’ Sneham and NCC cadets from college of Engineering, Guindy contributed with zest equivalent to that of the organising Bhumi volunteers.

We are deeply indebted to our Sponsors including Cognizant Outreach, SBI, Infosys Sneham, Food King, Velammal Educational Trust, Welmech Engineering, Sniper Systems, ISHRAE and over a thousand individual donors also contributed towards the finances of the event.

Participating homes (in alphabetical order) - Aadhiswarar Home, Adi Dravida Samooga Sevagar Sangam (Manavar Illam), Anbagam Street Children Care Centre, Annai Bharathamatha Educational trust, Annai Trust, Bala Mandir Kamaraj Trust, Bharatha Matha School, Child Children's Home, Ebenezer Home Of Social Outreaches, Good Life Centre, Indian Council for Child Welfare, Maranatha Intermission children's home, Mottukkal Good Shepherd Convent, Nalmanam, Nesakkaram Seeds, Open Door Orph. & Community Centre, Parisu Trust Child Development Centre, SAC Dr. P.V.Rao School-Children’s Home, Roshini Home, Sathiya Jyothi Destitute Home, Siragu Montessori School, SISTWA, Sree Sarada Sevasramam, St. Thomas Orphanage, Swami Charitable Trust, Webbs Memorial Orphanage.

Team Bhumi celebrating the close of Siragugal '09

A bigger and better Siragugal 2010 beckons! Siragugal '10 will be a two day Art, Cultural, Science, Athletic and Sports Fete. See you all again in July 2010!

Diwali '09

2009-10-09T20:27:00.000-07:00

Bhumi Cares: Passive smoking kills and so do crackers!!
Copper - Irritation in respiratory tract
Cadmium - Anaemia and kidney damage
Lead - Affects the nervous system
Magnesium - Causes metal fume fever
Sodium - Skin diseases
Zinc - Vomiting
Nitrate - Mental impairment
Nitrite - Coma

Not-so-happy Diwali: At the Madras ENT Research Foundation (MERF) at least 15 to 20 patients, mostly youngsters, are diagnosed with permanent hearing loss every year after Deepavali.
Research has shown that excessive noise levels lead to hearing loss, high blood pressure, excess secretion of adrenaline, dilation of the pupil, sleeplessness, nervous problems, blood vessel constriction and even cardiac arrest.

Bhumi Suggests: Purchase crackers
• Which are easy on your ears.
• With ‘No Child Labour’ stickers.

Bhumi Requests: Say NO to crackers!!

The Bhumi Mirror: Vol08, Aug2009

2009-08-22T18:55:00.000-07:00

Bhumi Mirror Vol08 Aug2009

Bhumi Torchbearers Speak!

2009-08-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Bhumi conferred the Torchbearer of the Year Award 2009 to five Bhumians for their commendable contribution towards Changing today... Changing tomorrow! (Link)

Here's what they feel about the award...

Akhila Hari

Akhila is an example of how an ideal “teaching” volunteer in Bhumi, specifically MAD, should be! Bhumi is very proud of her consistent and dedicated contribution.

"WHOA!!!

I cant just believe what has happened with me on the 15th of august 2009. This will remain as one of the most memorable days of my life in BHUMI.

This journey began way back in 2008, July when i was hunting for a community service which was supposed to be a part of my college curriculum. It was then when i traced out through my community radio in college about Bhumi. I cannot believe that this Bhumi will become an intimate part of my life. But now community service is something that comes as the last priority for me. Bhumi as such means more than anything else.

I am extremely thankful to Bhumi and its members who thought me as a deserving person to take this award. Life in Bhumi has been wonderful especially with the kids as well as the volunteers. I will always look back to this day and cherish its memories always.

I am not able to express my happiness and thankfulness for giving me the torchbearer award and making me feel so special amongst everyone.

I look forward to live up to the expectations and will give my best to Bhumi.
Once again thank you so much Bhumi for this. I have no words to show my gratitude towards Bhumi."

Uma Sekar

For her consistent contributions to MAD, Think Green and overall interest in Bhumi.

"This award came as a huge surprise to me. I personally don't think I deserve a Torchbearer award. There is a lot more to do for the society. We who have are the ones who can and must give to people who don't and the best way is through education. Bhumi is an organization which identifies and helps people who want to do something to change the current way of things, actually do it!

Bhumi gives me the confidence that a group of people with the same vision can make a huge impact in the society and inspire more people to work towards change.

I'm so glad I joined Bhumi! I've wanted to do something like this since my childhood and I thought I could achieve that dream only when I was older! Thank you Bhumi for making it happen much earlier! :)"

Vaishnavi Srinivasan – The Karate Kid

For her consistent and dedicated contributions to Career counselling, Kanini and overall interest in BHUMI.

"Until December 2006, my final year of college I was living with the only ambition of Joining Army. It was my dream .. my goal and everything to me.. I saw that as the best way to do something for my country. But for various reasons I had to give it up and I felt drained, empty and useless. After that I tried to involve myself in various activities but Its only after I joined BHUMI that I again gained a focus and purpose.
I am immensely honored to be working with such committed minds and I always feel I am the one gaining more and more each day with Bhumi in terms of satisfaction, Knowledge, Refinement People skills and what not..
I had never got any award before.. This was my first and best.. Cant explain how it felt..
I thank BHUMI and each Bhumian for their extraordinary support and encouragement that I have always received.
My special thanks to INR, Vivek, Prakash, Vaish and Doc for the inspiration and encouragement.
Hats off to u Guys!!!
Its a honor and responsibility now for me to keep up to the expectation. I hope to do my best."

Vijayanand S

For his consistent and dedicated contribution to Kanini, Joy to the World and overall interest in BHUMI

"It is a great honor in receiving the Torch bearer Award from Bhumi. It was indeed a big surprise! I always felt that joining hands with Bhumi was very easy as its vision and mission are quite simple and practical. Teaching for the kids at TMV is always a pleasure. Its an year since we started Kanini here, though we continuously faced the inconsistency of students there are many who are regular, inspired and motivated. I remember the days where in the volunteers have continued the class till 4, after a lunch break. Those days are really a memorable one! At this time i would like to give my hearty thanks to our Project Head Ayyanar, co-volunteers of TMV and all enthusiast of Bhumi. I would also like to thank Kuppusamy and Kalaivani of Nest, for their cooperation and efforts.

Focusing on Changing Tomorrow..."

Vijayalakshmi Gnanasekar

For her enthusiasm and energy level in structuring and stablising the Kanini project.

"To be honest, only because of the support given by my fellow Kanini friends I was able to do at least something to the kids. Bhumi people never treated me as a fresher when I initially joined Bhumi which boosted me to enthusiastically participate in all the Bhumi activities. J I am glad to hear that my contribution has reached the kids in a good way.

I am proud to tell everyone, that I am a bhumian :)… Thanks for recognizing and encouraging me to contribute even more.

Change today... Change tomorrow..."

Bhumi Torchbearers of the Year 2009

2009-08-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

BHUMI has changed a lot from the days when ten of us used to have meetings at Gandhi Mandapam to now, holding meetings at open air auditoriums. This has not been made possible without Bhumi’s greatest asset… our volunteers. Last year we had over 130 volunteers who contributed for at least a month. Who were the most exceptional of them all?

While every volunteer is a torch bearer of BHUMI, the organization is proud to recognize these five who have walked that extra mile - towards Changing Today… Changing tomorrow and confer the Torch Bearers of the year award for 2009.

Akhila Hari

1) She doesn’t know Tamil well. But, to ensure a strong rapport was established in the initial phase, she made extra efforts to learn Tamil – this was very inspiring

2) She has always added components to ensure her classes are fun and interesting – like printing her own flash cards, preparing handmade games. Her scrabble game won the “most innovative idea” poll on orkut. These handmade board and letters were also circulated amidst all volunteers from Dr. PV Rao School. To ensure good class strength, she maintained a well-made attendance register which was marked both before and after class.

3) She was always ready to substitute for volunteers from Sunday. Due to rains, towards the end of the academic year, when children had school on many Saturdays. She didn’t want to miss teaching her children. So made it a point to attend Sunday classes. We had to make her a permanent Sunday volunteer, since her credits were bouncing off the limit!!! Last year, she had the highest number of credits, almost double of any of the existing MAD volunteers.

4) For her effective contribution to classes @ Dr. PV Rao School: Good class control and discussing issues faced in class, with her project head.

Akhila is an example of how an ideal “teaching” volunteer in Bhumi, specifically MAD, should be! Bhumi is very proud of consistent and dedicated contribution.

Uma Sekar

1) Initially, had a very hard time in getting her children to understand the need to learn. But she roped them in by preparing materials, made copies of lots of activities, read out stories every week, and now, children look forward to her classes!

2) She openly discussed issues faced in class, with her project head.

3) She showed high interest, and participated regularly in Think Green activities too.

4) For her enthusiasm in trying to implement the “books from waste” programme where volunteers were expected to bring recyclables from home sell it off and purchase some storybooks for the children.

5) For her interest in trying to implement workbooks for the children as part of the MAD programme.

For her consistent contributions to MAD, Think Green and overall interest in Bhumi.

Vaishnavi Srinivasan – The Karate Kid

1. She continues to play a major role in stabilizing and strengthening the Knowledge Management team of the Career Counselling project. Her role has been inspirational to others in this team.

2. The responsibilities that she has taken till date have been addressed with utmost dedication, perfection and above all in a timely fashion

3. Her contribution works as an indirect spark that will light the lives of many students tomorrow

4. Her equally dedicated contribution and effective handling of classes in Kanini at WET, Pallavaram, Community centre is worth a mention

5. Her role in Kanini admin team and panel member has been pivotal

For her consistent and dedicated contributions to Career counselling, Kanini and overall interest in BHUMI.

Vijayanand S

1. His abilities as Kanini center head are commendable. Through his dedication, he was able to inject hope in students which helped stabilise the student turnout at his centre.

2. He played a major role in taking Kanini to more children in Thiruvallur district.

3. He was the Joy to the world coordinator at Wipro and was nodal in fulfilling simple wishes of many students

4. Although a resident of Ambattur, he never missed any General or Kanini meetings which are usually held in the heart of the city. His contribution in general Bhumi discussions have been invaluable.

5. The 'One man Army' of Thirumulaivoyal who handled four different sessions for more than 40 students in a weekend!

For his consistent and dedicated contribution to Kanini, Joy to the World and overall interest in BHUMI

Vijayalakshmi Gnanasekar

1. She has been the primary syllabus designer for Kanini

2. Exhibited immense character by handling Kanini classes at both NEST, Thirumulaivoyal, Community centre and Balamandir Orphanage with great responsibility when there was lack of volunteers at both centres [Topographically, they’re 30 kms apart]

3. Her skills as a good teacher helped stabilize classes at Balamandir orphanage.

4. For making an effective contribution towards Joy to the World

5. Her charming and friendly nature makes her very popular among volunteers and students

For her enthusiasm and energy level in structuring and stablising the Kanini project.

Bhumi is proud to confer the Torchbearer of the Year Award 2009 to these five Bhumians for their commendable contribution towards Changing today... Changing tomorrow!

Bhumi Blast 2009!

Excellence in Literacy Rotary Award for Bhumi

2009-08-06T13:45:00.001-07:00

Bhumi turns 3 this August 15th and Bhumians received a birthdya gift this year :)
Bhumi is the proud recipient of the Excellence in Literacy Award 2009 from the Rotary Club of Madras Chenna Patna. Congrats to all Bhumians!

Receiving the 'Excellence in Literacy' Award Citation from past Rotary International District Governor

Receiving the 'Excellence in Literacy' Award 2009 from past Rotary International District Governor

This is just the beginning! Bhumi Team @ Hotel Savera after the Award ceremony 30.07.09!

Read Bhumi's Citation & Award

Be our Fan on FaceBook

Bhumi in the News: The Hindu

Bhumi's FIRST!!!

2009-07-28T22:07:00.000-07:00

Bhumi is a youth volunteer non-profit organisation that has been providing supplementary education to underprivileged children in and around Chennai. Many of you might not know that three years back, Bhumi failed! Yes…Due to the lack of structure in teaching, the founders of Bhumi were asked to quit teaching at an orphanage in Chennai. But that definitely wasn’t de-motivating! They came back, if not with a bang, but with a basic outline of the curriculum and started teaching at two other orphanages. The group then comprising less than ten active volunteers took turns to teach twice during weekends. Bhumi has come a long way since then!

150 vibrant youngsters teach English, Computers, Maths and Science, and provide career counseling at eight orphanages [including the one Bhumi founders were sent out of :-)], seven community centres and one school. Through the community centres, Bhumi has been successful in touching many lives from remote villages.

For the small organisation it is, this three-year journey has brought Bhumi in touch with people from many walks of life – youngsters wanting a platform to help the needy, like-minded social workers, trainers, naturalists, psychologists etc… Bhumi was formed with no intention of gaining personal satisfaction / recognition from supporting underprivileged. Nevertheless, today Bhumi is the recipient of one of Tamil Nadu’s most prestigious awards for non-profits – Rotary Chenna Patna’s ‘Excellence in Literacy’ Award 2009.

More than an award to the organisation, we consider this a reward to every volunteer who has contributed many hours planning, and taking classes, mentoring orphaned / destitute children in dire need of emotional support and working on-field to make Chennai a greener city.

Bhumi aims to continue its work towards bridging the gap in society through education, by expanding to more orphanages in both rural and urban areas. With support from youngsters willing to make a difference, Bhumi sees a bright future for these beautiful, innocent, smart and energetic children!

The Bhumi Mirror: Vol 7, Jul 2009

2009-07-12T11:39:00.001-07:00

Bhumi Mirror Vol7 Jul2009

The Bhumi Mirror: Vol 6, Jun 2009

2009-06-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

Bhumi Mirror Vol6 Jun2009 Bhumi Mirror Vol6 Jun2009 BhumiChennai News Letter of Bhumi. Chennai. A youth volunteer Non-profit Organisation working in the field of Supplementary education of destitute children.

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Magazines & Newspape children charity

BHUMI is YouthActionNet®’s Global Fellowship Program Semi-Finalist!

2009-06-07T10:08:00.001-07:00

Great News at the beginning of a new academic year!

Bhumi has been selected as one of 50 semi-finalists from over 500 applications received for the Youth Action Net Global Fellowship! http://www.youthactionnet.org/

YouthActionNet®’s Global Fellowship Program targets exceptional young social entrepreneurs anywhere in the world who have developed innovative approaches to addressing issues of international relevance.

Congrats to all Bhumians!

The Bhumi Mirror: Vol 5, May 2009

2009-05-16T10:28:00.000-07:00

Bhumi Mirror Vol5 May2009 Bhumi Mirror Vol5 May2009 BhumiChennai News Letter of Bhumi. Chennai. A youth volunteer Non-profit Organisation working in the field of Supplementary education of destitute children.

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Magazines & Newspape children charity

The Bhumi Mirror: Vol 4, Apr 2009

2009-05-16T10:27:00.000-07:00

Bhumi Mirror Vol 4 April 2009 Bhumi Mirror Vol 4 April 2009 BhumiChennai News Letter of Bhumi. Chennai. A youth volunteer Non-profit Organisation working in the field of Supplementary education of destitute children.

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Magazines & Newspape children charity

The Bhumi Mirror: Vol 3, Mar 2009

2009-03-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

Bhumi Mirror Vol 3 Mar 2009 Bhumi Mirror Vol 3 Mar 2009 BhumiChennai News Letter of Bhumi. Chennai. A youth volunteer Non-profit Organisation working in the field of Supplementary education of destitute children.

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Magazines Periodicals & Report children charity

The Bhumi Mirror: Vol 2, Feb 2009

2009-02-23T09:58:00.001-08:00

Bhumi Mirror Vol 2 Feb 2009

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Academic Work Travel children charity

The Bhumi Mirror: Vol 1, Jan 2009

2009-01-29T01:27:00.000-08:00

Bhumi Mirror Vol 1 Jan 2009

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Periodicals & Report children charity

Dr.Kalam's message to Children in Bhumi's projects

2009-01-21T08:40:00.000-08:00

Most Fun Diwali ever: Celebrations at Dr.PV Rao Orphanage

2008-12-09T08:03:00.000-08:00

A week's planning and a lil' bit of practice by some volunteers resulted in our most memorable Diwali in a long long time, on 26th October 2008 @ Dr.PV Rao School & Orphanage.

The fun began from the very beginning :) Ashwin and Uma (Speak Out – MAD volunteers @ PVR School) started off with the story of Diwali (their own version of things :P) and had to be told the right 'story' by the kids and volunteers. Then volunteers from Government Girls Home and Anbu Karangal kicked off the festivities with a dance programme...

A skit titled “Good Boy, Bad Boy” enacted by PVR guys made children understand the importance of being a good student. The group’s miming efforts ought to be commended! The group dance by them was memorable too. They tried hard but rhythm and co-ordination were hard to spot ;) (Considering they were practicing only just before the programme began and delayed the start with their practicing... it was a decent show). Several solo and group dance performances and song renditions by the volunteers of PVR followed.

The excitement amidst volunteers became contagious and soon children from PVR started performing solos and group dance performances... And what’s Diwali without sweets and crackers!!! After several free for all dance performances to several ‘kuthu pattus’ we finally rounded off the day with sweets and crackers for children and their teacher-volunteers.

The BHUMI team @ PV Rao Orphanage for the Diwali Celebrations

Infosys exhorts employees to go on 1-yr sabbatical, work for NGOs

2008-11-20T07:51:00.000-08:00

India’s second-largest information technlogy services provider, Infosys Technologies, has issued letters to its employees stating they could opt for a one-year sabbatical to engage themselves in philanthropic activities. They would continue to draw 50 per cent of their salary during the period. Infosys crossed the 100,000-employee mark in India in the quarter ended September 30, 2008.

The company said that while the move may have coincided with the global financial turmoil and slowing growth rates of IT firms, it should be perceived as a pure voluntary act by employees who are prompted by altruistic motives and inspired by the example of its chairman and chief mentor, NR Narayana Murthy.

The employees, an internal memo said, need to be on the company rolls for at least two consecutive years before they are eligible for the offer and a panel comprising senior members of the Infosys leadership team will decide each case. “This policy will promote volunteerism among employees and we believe that the value and benefits arising from it will have an impact on community, the employees and ultimately, the company,” it said.

Sources said that the policy came into force only a few days back and the company is working out the finer points like whether the employees will be given any salary or emolument during the sabbatical. However, it is understood that the company is planning to pay some amount of the salary, while the rest the employees can earn from the NGO they are working for.

An Infosys spokesperson confirmed the development: “We introduced this policy almost two months back, which allows the employees to go on up to one year of sabbatical to engage in philanthropic activities. All the employees have been communicated the policy internally.” When asked how much the employees will be paid during that time, the spokesperson said they will be given 50 per cent of the salary, while the other half will be given by the respective NGOs they work with.

“It’s a part of Narayana Murthy’s desire to give back to the society, which is driven by the fact that many employees quit their jobs to pursue philanthropic activities. This would give such employees an option to pursue their hobby while still continuing with the jobs, even if they will be paid a small amount by the company. The employees can go out with a cut in their salaries, even though the final details are being worked out by the company,” a source close to the development told Business Standard.

POSTED from the Business Standard

Speak Out - Make A Difference is a Global Competition Finalist!

2008-11-06T00:33:00.000-08:00

The numbers were so baffling that I had to read them over and over again to convince myself that in fact, they were true, and no it was not time yet to change my specs again….

521 entries from 61 countries… And the MAKE A DIFFERENCE project has been picked as one of the 15 finalists…

After convincing myself, (and reading again), I realized that this was no fluke…

We were finally being accepted for the work that we do…

The Staples Youth Social Entrepreneur Competition’s purpose is to discover and recognise creative, inspiring ways in which young people are changing the world….

And as a BHUMIan, the fact that we got picked from among several hundred deserving nominations from around the world, is a matter of immense pride… If you’re a Bhumi volunteer, I’m pretty sure you’re feeling euphoric too…

Anyhow, the competition isn’t done yet.. Go to http://changemakers.net/en-us/competition/staplesyv to vote for the most deserving candidate….

Check out MAKE A DIFFERENCE, COCHIN's Voting Made Easy section for more detailed info on how to vote…

Three Cheers for everyone at MAD Cochin & MAD Pune as well :)

Speak Out: Flash Card Games

2008-11-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

1.Crisscross Bingo:

Materials Required:

1.Bingo board - a grid with:
Rows - Verbs from the verb set assigned;
Columns - Subject (I/He/She/It/We/They)
2. Pair of dice –
Verbs and Subject on each

How to Play:

Step 1: A child rolls the dice

Step 2: He/She makes a sentence with the combination

Example:
Dice 1: He; Dice 2: Walk
Sentence: He walks to school

Step 3: On the bingo board, the child needs to write his/her name in the grid that corresponds to He and Stand. The first child to make a straight line (like cross and naught) is the winner.

The dices and board are available on:
http://www.toolsforeducators.com/crisscross/

2.Memory game: Cards placed face down.A child tries to match a picture with its corresponding flash card.Kids were so excited that they decided to complicate it further by shuffling the order after each chance!! So it took some time to finish the game.

After making a right pair, the child has to say the substitution chart with actions for that verb.

3."Stop!! Thats mine!": This game is played one at a time. A child is given a picture card. The remaining cards (9) are put down one after another by the moderator. The child needs to hit and say STOP when his/her picture's flash card is put down.

4. "Make your pair": Picture cards (P) should be separated from flash cards (F) and shuffled. Every child is given 1P and 1F.A child starts the game by putting down a F card.The next child, picks it up, chooses to retain, drops another/same F card.The game goes on till one manages to find his/her pair.

NOTE: The picture card should be retained throughout the game!

During all games, children were asked to make sentences with a subject(he/she/you) + verb.

Cross posted from the BHUMI, Chennai Blog

Training for Speak Out Volunteers

2008-11-02T09:10:00.000-08:00

Make a Difference (MAD), Cochin has played an invaluable role in shaping Speak Out. While BHUMI identified orphanages to start this project at, MAD brought The Teacher Foundation (TTF, Bangalore). The aim was to equip Bhumians with methodologies, ideas, and tips to make these English classes interactive and energetic. Little experience in teaching made this training mandatory for all our Speak Out volunteers. BHUMI will always be grateful to MAD for bringing one of the best and experienced trainers in the country.

Due to a large strength, the trainers decided to split the group into two batches (of 30 each). The two-day training programme was nothing like long, monotonous lectures. Volunteers were on their feet throughout the session, playing every activity that we would be taking back to our classrooms. In the 8-hour classes, volunteers dirtied their hands with fabric paint, composed jazz tunes, mimed short plays, and actively participated in group discussions. This way they were able to relate to the possible outcomes of implementing these activities with their batch of children.

http://picasaweb.google.com/BhumiChennai/TTFTraining1Aug9102008#

http://picasaweb.google.com/BhumiChennai/TTFTrainingSecondSession#

Feedback from a few volunteers:

“I honestly thought it would be some kind of theory session where someone would teach us how to teach! I had loads of fun and felt really childish after a really long time!! Plus learnt and lot and got a better perspective to the classes.”

What the training could have offered in addition: “A syllabus, in the sense, in school we were taught nouns first and then verbs and so on. So, a certain order alone can be given. Otherwise, it was great! :)”
- Uma Sekar, Volunteering at Dr.P.V.Rao School

“I expected to get a lot more ideas on teaching and handling overactive kids! It would be great if we got a syllabus from TTF or we could have a discussion with them about how much our children know and we can accordingly get a syllabus for each standard.”
- Deepthi Ravichandran, Volunteering at Avvai Home

“I hoped the training will be fun, because I was apprehensive that it was two full days, also being weekends. But, the class was actually lot of fun as well as learning! It was a good experience; It gave me an opportunity to learn the teaching methods.”
- Karthik Venugopal, Teach India Volunteer, Avvai Home

Unfortunately, we had a few practical difficulties in implementing this system. Most of our children, both from lower and higher classes, lacked basic knowledge in the subject. A small percentage of children (age no exception!) had problems identifying alphabets. Such a scenario compelled a change in the direction we had planned to adopt.

In addition, a syllabus was necessary to take structured classes. Two teachers with decades’ experience – Ms. Malathy and Ms. Prema, were introduced to BHUMI. The first workshop conducted by them provided volunteers with not just more tools but also a syllabus that revolves around ‘Drilling and Repetition’. The academic year has now been split into terms (3 months each). Starting from simple present and past, the course would gradually roll out into a more advanced one. Care has been taken to ensure that volunteers retain the original ‘learn-through-activities’ system.

Every term ends with a feedback session to discuss problems faced by volunteers during the term and syllabus for the next. The terms to come will start focussing on content from school textbooks, so that children start experiencing the benefits as soon as possible.

Cross posted from the BHUMI, Chennai Blog

Learning from the learner group

2008-10-12T03:08:00.000-07:00

"Teachers should encourage students and children to ask questions and develop the spirit of enquiry, so that they blossom into creative citizens.”
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

Until a few years back, I found children annoying! Their constant need to talk, urge to ask questions, eagerness to know minuscule information put me off.

Nevertheless, today I think for hours on how creative one can get to make ‘Speak Out’ classes interactive, special, and memorable!

An unforgettable incident at one of our centres, Welfare Education Trust [Pallavaram] - One day as I was narrating Cinderella, Sudha from my class stopped me to ask "Akka, if the spell broke at midnight, why is her shoe still in good shape? That should have disappeared too!?!"

I was perplexed. Having read the story innumerable times, never have I given this a thought!!

Questions are no more maddening! They are enlightening!

Cross posted from the BHUMI, Chennai Blog

Why does BHUMI do whatever it does?

2008-09-11T04:50:00.001-07:00

Why does BHUMI do whatever it does? Why Education & the Environment?

It's a question lots of people have asked me... Why not clean the beach? Why not fight politics? Why not feed needy children? Why not fight corruption? The list is endless as are the ills that plague this country...
Obviously there are a lots of things a young group of individuals as large as ours can do to Make India a better place but why the focus only on Education and the Environment?

The answer is quite simple, 'We believe that these under-privileged children whom we work with are the latent potential India will need for the future and if we don't act against climate change there simply is no future for India or the human race'

Lastly one of my fav quotes... I think it explains a lot :)
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." - Margret Mead

Cross Posted from The BHUMI, Chennai Blog

BHUMI's Speak Out

2008-09-01T00:25:00.000-07:00

“I am running late to work, AGAIN! And my 6 foot tall – stern faced – I can’t smile boss is not going to pardon me this time! Stuck in a traffic jam that is as long as a giraffe’s tongue. I see a mason’s daughter by the pavement making a beautiful sand castle. If only she could afford Education!! Sigh… Will the current situation ever change? Will India see a few more Kalams and Bedis? Would “India, Superpower by 2020” be a dream forever?

Oh, the signal just turned green. Now, vehicles are gonna crawl like ants! If only Batman’s utilities were applicable in the real world. Sci-fi has never impressed me, nevertheless…”

Such writing would make this blog usual!

Welcome to BHUMI!

From a small group of friends teaching at a school in 2006, BHUMI is now a guild of 250 students and young professionals. While educational projects target children of all ages, our environmental and societal initiatives focus on improving the current conditions of the local community.

Our volunteers hope to share their personal experiences and special BHUMI moments on this blog. Kicking off with how our English Teaching programme evolved.

Successful completion of KANINI (our e-literacy initiative) at Anbu Karangal and SOS Village in 2007 meant extending this to more orphanages. That was when I learnt about HOPE Foundation. HOPE is an international organisation that provides shelter, personal and medical care for AIDS affected adults and children.

Even though the children took time to open up, we bonded within weeks. During the course, I learnt that children here did not have answers to many questions: why am I at HOPE, why do I need to pop in capsules day and night, why do I feel drugged all day, how does it feel to be with ‘family’, and many more.

My outlook with respect to the World and its People changed. I realised how one’s hasty decision/action can change the life of another (unintentionally). Tears trickle down every time I think about the quality of life such boys and girls, in contrast to us, lead.

Unfortunately, their level of English was a barrier in proceeding further. That was when BHUMI started discussing the possibility of teaching our children English.

Make a Difference (MAD) an NGO based in Cochin has been teaching destitute children English for the past two years. With assistance from their team, “Speak Out – Make a Difference” started taking shape. Effective campaigning at colleges and workplaces brought in more volunteers.

Now Bhumians are actively teaching at three orphanages and one community centre in Chennai. Trained by The Teacher Foundation (Bangalore) our volunteers are now well equipped with resources from the Cambridge University to make this journey of learning English as interactive as possible!

If you want to be part of this initiative, visit us at www.bhumichennai.org and register!

Project Kanini: Hidden Gems of PVR Orphanage

2008-08-30T08:32:00.000-07:00

Though Speak Out classes have begun on time this year, Kanini's start was delayed due to the time taken to repair the computers donated to BHUMI by Satyam Computers.

Kanini's roll-out began this Independence Day weekend at Anbu Karangal and PV Rao Orphanage & School. After Ayyanar and his team gave a short introduction to computers, the 15 students of class 10 were allowed to work on the computers. All of them were 'touching' a computer for the first time in their life!

The Kanini Syllabus starts of with MS Paint, which allows the kids to learn mouse handling and also have some fun at the same time. The kids started working with a bit of help from the volunteers. Within 30 seconds one kid had drawn an India Map (more or less!) I don't know how many of you could have managed stuff like this within your first few minutes on a comp... I'm sure i would've struggled quite a bit.

As they gave finishing touches to their first drawings on a PC all of us were pleasantly surprised...

It left me thoughtful, What would've these children become with a normal family, childhood, education & facilities like a computer?

Another reminder that Children are a precious resource, they lack opportunity, not capability! Another wake up call for us as BHUMIans to work faster and better to bring more and more under-privileged children into our supplementary education programmes. The future is bright!

Can u spot the Happy faces of the volunteers among the children? :)

Cross Posted from the BHUMI, Chennai Blog

Think Green

2008-08-04T19:03:00.000-07:00

Climate change is the most agonizing challenge being faced by the humanity today. In a country of a billion population and a majority of them being dependent on the limited natural resources for the basic survival, the problem of climate change assumes a much greater significance. When the Himalayan glaciers, that feed almost 40% of the humanity (India and China), face the threat of a complete melt down due to increasing temperature, the agriculture that survives purely on the rivers fed by these glaciers would collapse resulting in the worst socio-economic crisis our country has ever faced. If the worst has to come, the perennial rivers could well become seasonal rivers, fed only by the monsoon, in the coming next three decades. With a 7000km long coastline, the threat of sea level rise poses a danger as grave as the melt down of glaciers. Severe shortage of food and drinking water, continuous failure of agriculture leading to collapse of a civil society is already being felt in some countries of the world. The need to address the issue of climate change is now at its highest point given the fact most of the extreme climatic events, like the break down of Larsen shelf, shrinking Greenland ice etc, are pre-dating the predictions of the scientific community. The only comforting point is that we might be just able to avert a crisis and stabilize the climate in its present form so that we may have just enough time to figure out ways to mitigate the problems and work towards a more sustainable earth. This is not all about climate change but a brief overview of the prospective dangers posed by climate change.
Every individual is a stakeholder in this process and the least anybody can do is to be aware – of the causes of the climate change, the individual’s contribution, ways of reducing the strain on environment and creating a more sustainable environment.

The Initiative:

Think Green is the initiative which is going to primarily focus on creating this awareness among the people of Chennai, to begin with and subsequently extending it to other parts of the state. The Program aims to produce a strong group of committed youth leaders who will carry the message of Climate Change, Leaders who will initiate and lead grassroots climate groups in their work, schools, colleges and communities. Alongside generating awareness, we envisage to take up a project in the form of a fieldwork to demonstrate that we aren’t just armchair philosophers but we would also engage in direct action to demonstrate our commitment for the cause.

The Program:

The time frame for the program is set at six months to one year and has three divisions.

1. Getting ourselves ready
2. Making presentations
3. Field Project

Getting ourselves ready: Most of us know about climate change but in order to make presentations that sound credible and convincing, it is important that we equip ourselves with authentic data and scientifically proven facts to back our claims. Enough material will be provided to the participants. The participants are expected to do some basic research into the subject and make a Power Point presentation. The culmination of this stage would be a one-day training session in which the participants would be provided with more perspectives and ideas that could be used to fine-tune their presentation. The training session will be held in roughly a month’s time.

People working for the same company or studying in the same college or even a group of individuals could team up to simplify the work and make the presentation more effective by doing independent in-depth research.

Making Presentations: Every group/individual is expected to make at least one presentation a month in schools/colleges/workplace/community or any other place of their choice. While Bhumi would actively look out for prospective places where presentations could be made participants are encouraged to identify places where they would be more comfortable.

Field Project: This is a relatively tricky assignment of the three. Nevertheless, this could be the most effective way to spread the message and drive the point home. The project could be anything from a tree plantation drive in the neighbouring community to campaigning against the usage of low grade plastic in residential colonies or sensitizing people in the office to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels by encouraging them to use public transport or forming car pools. Every group or participant is expected to submit a draft proposal one the eve of the training session.

People who want be a part of this program please fill this form. All fields are mandatory to have a rough idea and generate a pool of ideas to proceed with.

http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?key=pr8utZ7S3Ncsh4tddddsALw&email=true

The Tricolour National Flag

2007-08-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

On August 15, 1947: The tricolour National Flag was first flown above the Red Fort, Delhi, signifying the transfer of power from Britain to India.

The National Flag shall be a tri-colour panel made up of three rectangular panels or sub-panels of equal widths. The colour of the top panel shall be India saffron (Kesari) and that of the bottom panel shall be India green. The middle panel shall be white, bearing at its centre the design of Ashoka Chakra in navy blue colour with 24 equally spaced spokes. The Ashoka Chakra shall preferably be screen printed or otherwise printed or stenciled or suitably embroidered and shall be completely visible on both sides of the Flag in the centre of the white panel.

The significance of the colours and the chakra in the National Flag was amply described by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan in the Constituent Assembly, which unanimously adopted the National Flag. Dr. S. Radhakrishnan explained—“Bhagwa or the saffron colour denotes renunciation of disinterestedness. Our leaders must be indifferent to material gains and dedicate themselves to their work. The white in the centre is light, the path of truth to guide our conduct. The green shows our relation to soil, our relation to the plant life here on which all other life depends. The Ashoka Wheel in the center of the white is the wheel of the law of dharma. Truth or satya, dharma or virtue ought to be the controlling principles of those who work under this flag. Again, the wheel denotes motion. There is death in stagnation. There is life in movement. India should no more resist change, it must move and go forward. The wheel represents the dynamism of a peaceful change.”

A call to the Nation on the eve of our 60th Independence Day

2007-08-12T09:05:00.000-07:00

Every year in the life of every Indian come these special days – the 15th of August and the 26th of January. Two more holidays…!. Or is it something more than that??
On one side we have the school children ― who are forced to wakeup much earlier than usual on these days and attend the flag hoisting, and on the other side we have people who probably have never seen any tricolour being hoisted since ages – because by the time they wake up these holidays all the flags are already hoisted. This is the same set of people who state that “Vande Maataram” should be our national anthem and not “Jana Gana Mana”, but haven’t sung either of them since ages.

Lost among these masses are a few awakened souls who atleast for a moment feel concerned and worried that “Everything is not fine with our motherland”. In these 60 years of Independence we have certainly not reached where we had set out for. On the contrary we are headed towards where we should not be going. Sad is the fact that most such concerns end up with either complaining about lack of ethical and moral values among we Indians comparing ourselves to the westerners or else blaming the Politicians of the country for being corrupt and malevolent and holding them responsible for the state of affairs in India and finally concluding “Nothing can be done”.

Bharat Uday Mission believes India can be set back on the right track. What is required is the good will and faith of the awakened masses led and guided by the sacrifices of the enlightened few. Most Indians dream of seeing India become the superpower of the 21st century, a golden sparrow of the world. Bharat Uday Mission is committed to give a divine hope to every such soul. We are dedicated to bringing India to the zenith of its glory – “Whatever it takes”.

This Independence day dedicated to all those concerns, worries and wishes of the common Indian man- Bharat Uday Mission comes up with a noble cause of avoiding the dishonor rendered to the Tiranga by we ignorant citizens. We call upon every citizen to stand up for the cause and try to avoid any such dishonor by him or in his presence.

Gone are the days when we as children used to sit down with crayons and a scissor and craft our own Tricolour and wave it with pride. Now-a-days it’s just the matter of a rupee – that’s all the flag made up of polythene costs. All we need is to pay a penny and wave it or even post it on our vehicles. We wave it until we get bored, or it remains hoisted on the vehicles as long as it can stand there – and then we will find it fallen on the road side forming part of the garbage.

How many of us even know that manufacture and use of poorly made cheap plastic flags is against the flag code of India. More so we are not supposed to use the flag for hoisting on the public vehicles. Ok fine we may object that how can we be questioned against expressing our love and pride for the Motherland and our very own national flag. But the insulting thing is where that love and pride disappears by the end of the day or the next day when the same flags are lying on the roadside with the garbage and even in the drains… Now, this certainly is a very reprehensible issue. In fact the flag code clearly states that ‘after use, the flags have to be disposed off properly with full honour’. Proper disposal is the responsibility of every citizen and a matter of respect to the nation to be adhered by every one of us.

So this Independence Day Bharat Uday Mission is on the mission of preventing dishonor of any form being rendered to the national flag in the city/country. This act comes as a measure of justifying the fact that a small team of enlightened individuals backed by the goodwill support and participation of the awakened masses can bring about a noticeable change in the city... And more so in the country too.

Flag Code and How it is being Violated in Public

2007-08-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

It is a well-known fact that the Tricolour is treated too casually by many in the public. The National flags are seen lying on the roadside along with the other garbage and even in drains by the evening of the Independence Day, the Republic Day and other National Days. Cheap plastic flags, rather than the sacred Khadi Flags have become the order of the day. Such a treatment is not only a violation of the ‘Flag Code’ and other applicable laws like the ‘Emblems and Names Act, 1950’, ‘Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971’, but also an atrocity on the patriotic sentiment of every true citizen of India.

Flag Code and How it is being Violated in Public

There are strict standards to be adhered to for making and using the flag. The Hubli-based Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha (KKGSS) has been certified as the sole institution to supply national flags for the entire country, by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) in conformation with the standards laid down by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Few Indians even know there is one. Some important stipulations laid down in the Flag code are as follows:

· First, there are nine standard sizes to which our flag is made, each with a special purpose for which only it may be used.
· The colors have to be of the exact shade specified by KVIC and BIS. Both saffron and green have to be of equal length and breadth.
· The length and width of the entire flag should be in the ratio 2:3.
· The chakra should contain 24 equally spaced spokes. The chakra should be printed on both sides; the position of both synchronized.
· There should be a four-thread stitch in each centimeter of the cloth. The flag edge (for rod insertion) has stipulated dimensions.
· Only, hand-spun and hand-woven cloth can be used for a national flag.
· Only cotton, silk, wool or khadi can be used.
· Whenever it is flown, it should occupy the position of honour and be distinctly placed.
· The flag must not be used as a festoon, rosette or bunting or in any other manner of decoration. It should not be used as a portion of a costume or uniform. It should not also be embroidered on any cushion, handkerchief, or printed on napkins or boxes.
· Only specified Indian dignitaries can fly the flag atop their cars.
· Even the half-masting during mourning has to be done only for certain dignitaries' deaths. This too in a certain procedure ― it has to be hoisted briskly, and lowered slowly.

Any defects in the manufacture of flags, such as colour, size and thread count are considered a serious offence and are liable for fine or imprisonment or both, as per the provisions of Flag Code of India. The flags will have to be first quality-checked by the BIS. If they find any defect, the entire lot will be rejected. Even the tailors need certain specified diplomas / training certificates to be recruited.

"Flying a plastic or paper flag can attract imprisonment of up to three years with a fine. Even for disposing of a damaged or discolored national flag (the Flag Code says these are not to be used), you have to gather a/few local leader(s), and in their presence, burn it and then bury it. Also, private citizens can only hoist it in their homes, not cars,"

The Indian Navy uses woolen Flags, the Army cotton and silk ones, and the Air Force mostly silk. The Flag Code of India says there are nine different sizes in which the flag is made. Each has certain dimensions and a specified use. The sizes range from a few inches to a few feet. The smallest one (Size Nine) ― 6 inches X 4 inches or 150 mm X 100 mm is for use as a table flag during meetings, conferences involving participation by foreign countries (you would have seen this one in countless TV clippings and newspaper photos); Size Eight – 9 inches X 6 inches or 225 mm X 150 mm is for use in VVIP cars; Size Seven ― 18 inches X 12 inches or 450 mm X 300 mm for VVIP aircraft and train carrying the President; Size Six – 3 ft X 2 ft or 900 mm X 600 mm for display in rooms on cross bar, etc.; on deceased persons; Size Five ― 5.5 ft X 3 ft or 1,350 mm X 900 mm) for smaller sized public buildings; Size Four – 6 ft X 4 ft or 1,800 mm X 1,200 mm on deceased persons entitled to state / military funerals and on small government buildings. Size Three – 9 ft X 6 ft or 2,700 mm X 1,800 mm on Parliament House and medium sized government buildings; Size Two -- 12 ft X 8 ft or 3,600 mm X 2,400 mm on gun carriages, Red Fort, Rashtrapati Bhavan; Size One -- the biggest of them all (21ft into 14ft or 6,300 mm into 4,200 mm) is for very large buildings with a high flag mast.