Rebuilding Uttarakhand
Salient Features of Mid Term Shelters
- calendar_month 11,SEP 2013
The objective of an appropriate response after a natural disaster cannot simply be the delivery of sheds for shelter. Even though the immediate needs of people are for a quick shelter – that which tents / emergency shelter spaces provide, a mid-term need is that of a waiting house wherein a family may spend upto one to one half year till such time permanent homes are available.
These shelters too should come up fairly quickly to provide the necessary relief, and, these ‘mid-term’ shelters need to be treated as short stay homes. They will be people’s homes for such a period, but these should certainly not be treated as permanent homes. Let us examine each aspect:
Speed is of essence and the pace of construction once begun should not slacken but continue till the job is done. External bottlenecks if any should be minimized in the process.
A stone balli-structure may seem to be starting off slowly but the process quickly picks up speed and continues to increase its pace as more and more local people and masons join in. It is not dependent on the logistics of external factory production.
The Mid-term shelter may be a short stay home, but it still needs to be climatically responsive so that families can bear at least one if not two winters, a summer and a monsoon. Eventually, it should be dismantled and the materials used for permanent homes.
A stone and balli midterm home will be a cosy space that families can comfortably stay for a short period. They will be warmer in winters and not heat up when the sun shines hard. They can easily put in simple things like hooks and shelves and even adjust the room sizes to suit their individual needs, it will not be as cold in winters and as hot when the sun shines overhead. In addition, they will be able to take all materials to use in walls and roofs of their permanent homes, with whatever modifications that are needed done locally in the village.
The communities need livelihoods along with homes. Any action after a natural disaster must aim to bring in work to strengthen the economic situation in the affected area, where most of the major economic activities come to near stand still for a substantial length of time.
A stone and balli mid-term shelter (with a tile or a GI roof) will enable the affected families, and local masons and carpenters to put in their labor and earn even as they build their own homes. Thus enabling some financial flows into the villages. It also permits skill development that will enable the local artisans to continue to earn their living through the building activity in their own area.
A shelter response after a disaster, must aim to build back better. It must lay a foundation for long term sustainable construction processes This means disaster resistant and sustainable more eco-friendly homes. Sustainability emerges from use of low energy, local resource based houses constructed in disaster safe manner, enabling local livelihoods and respond to local cultural aesthetics.
A stone and balli tile structure is not only able to handle the weather conditions, it will demonstrate the application of low carbon, low energy structures that may be promoted in future and thus lays ground for the permanent structures that are locally appropriate and sustainable in the long term. The processes it sets in place will promote local livelihoods and local skills and reinforce a local cultural aesthetic.
A mid-term shelter is an opportunity to provide a confidence building amongst communities. This confidence building comes with being engaged with the act of building and with familiarity of their locale.
A local material using shelter in which families are engaged in the process will help them get their confidence back and as they will be part of the process, the discontent will never arise, in fact they will themselves be able to do minor repairs if required. Longer time contentment will also be reflected in their responses. As the techniques are local, no special skills are required, minimal training during the construction of the mid-term shelters will be adequate.
Lastly but most importantly the use of stone in midterm shelter will bring to forefront the issue of the use of local materials in the construction of houses that has been for long impeded in the state by various directives and executive orders, and in the process has caused immense undue hardships to the local people, especially the poor.
The use of stone (local materials) at this juncture will help put breaks to carting in of bricks from the plains and adjoining states, thus reducing the destruction of the valuable agriculture topsoil and greatly reducing the pollution caused by burning of diesel in carting.
It would only be appropriate to mention at this point that even more appealing and visually more attractive much talked about prefabricated shelters made of non-metallic materials such as plastics have many more drawbacks when used as mid-term or long-term shelters.
The table below summarizes the salient points:
Closest to the local building system that people are familiar with, and so requires no special skills
100% salvageable and recyclable
Amenable to site-specific adjustments done at the site. Considering that majority of construction of mid-term shelters will be done in the terrace fields, the depth of which always vary along their length, the adjustability is a very important attribute.
Thermally more comfortable and, hence, more suitable for a moderately long stay
Rat resistant due to RR walls
Permits modifications as and when desired for adding conveniences
Allow greater contribution from the house owner
Significant portion of the cost creates much needed local employment
Use of masonry and carpentry will be seen as beginning of the reconstruction process, and will help rebuild peoples’ confidence for the permanent house construction at a later date.
Masonry walls top will provide an extra built-in shelf for storage
Floor raised through 6″ against the walls with plastic sheet embedded throughout will help eliminate dampness from capillary action
Graph indicating the speed of construction will be relatively flat at the onset since at the onset the work cannot start before stone for walls is collected. Beyond that it will purely depend upon the number of masons and carpenters on hand.
The stone based construction will help set the tone of reconstruction of permanent houses. In other words, this will help go green in the rehabilitation phase by eliminating the bricks being transported over long distances.
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छात्रवृत्ति से दें अपने सपनों को उड़ानअगर आप भी पढ़-लिख कर अपने सपनों को साकार करना चाहते हैं और यदि इसमें आर्थिक परेशानी सामने आ रही है, तो घबराएं नहीं। अतुल माहेश्वरी छात्रवृत्ति के माध्यम से आप अपने पंखों को उड़ान दे सकते हैं। फार्म में मांगी गई सभी जानकारियां देना अनिवार्य है। छात्रवृत्ति के लिए एक लिखित परीक्षा 85 शहरों में निर्धारित परीक्षा केंद्रों पर आयोजित की जाएगी। फॉर्म भरते समय विद्यार्थी लिखित परीक्षा के लिए अपनी सुविधानुसार शहर का चयन कर सकते हैं। परीक्षा केंद्र की सूचना ई-मेल द्वारा भेजे जाने वाले एडमिट कार्ड में दी जाएगी। इसलिए हर आवेदक की ई-मेल आईडी होना अनिवार्य है।
इनमें से किसी भी लिंक पर क्लिक करें और आवेदन फॉर्म भरें-
https://www.amarujala.com/atul-maheshwari-chhatravritti-2024
https://amarujalafoundation.org/
https://www.amarujala.com/
इस वर्ष अतुल माहेश्वरी छात्रवृत्ति परीक्षा में नौवीं और दसवीं के प्रादेशिक बोर्ड के विद्यालयों में पढ़ने वाले 23 विद्यार्थियों के लिए 50-50 हजार रुपये और 11वीं-12वीं के 23 विद्यार्थियों को 75-75 हजार रुपये की छात्रवृत्ति प्रदान की जाएगी। इस परीक्षा में भाग लेने के लिए प्रादेशिक शिक्षा बोर्ड के केवल नौवीं से 12वीं कक्षा में पढ़ने वाले वही छात्र पात्र हैं, जिन्होंने पिछली वार्षिक परीक्षा में न्यूनतम 60 फीसदी अंक प्राप्त किए हों और जिनकी वार्षिक पारिवारिक आय दो लाख रुपये से कम हो। बीपीएल कार्ड धारक परिवार के बच्चों को प्राथमिकता दी जाएगी। आठवीं में पढ़ने वाले और बारहवीं उत्तीर्ण कर चुके छात्र आवेदन करने के लिए पात्र नहीं हैं। आवेदन केवल ऑनलाइन माध्यम से ही स्वीकार किए जाएंगे। 2023 में आयोजित की गई अतुल माहेश्वरी छात्रवृत्ति परीक्षा में एक लाख से अधिक विद्यार्थी शामिल हुए थे और उनमें से सफल 44 विद्यार्थियों के बीच छात्रवृत्ति के रूप में 27.5 लाख रुपये वितरित किए गए थे।
एक एमबी से ज्यादा का न हो दस्तावेज
आवेदकों को ऑनलाइन आवेदन फॉर्म में फोटो, पिछली कक्षा की मार्कशीट, आवासीय पते का प्रमाण और अन्य आवश्यक दस्तावेज अपलोड करने होंगे। अपलोड किए जाने वाले दस्तावेज एमबी से अधिक न हों, नहीं तो आवेदन अस्वीकार कर दिया जाएगा।
दृष्टिहीनों के लिए दो विशेष छात्रवृत्तियां
पिछले वर्ष की तरह इस बार भी दो दृष्टिहीन विद्यार्थियों को विशेष छात्रवृत्ति दी जाएगी। ऐसे छात्रों को परीक्षा में अपने साथ एक सहायक लाने की छूट प्रदान की गई है, जो छात्र से नीचे की कक्षा का होना चाहिए। सहायक को अपने साथ स्कूल का आई कार्ड लाना अनिवार्य होगा।
एक मोबाइल नंबर, एक आवेदन
विद्यार्थी फॉर्म भरते समय इस बात का ध्यान रखें कि एक मोबाइल नंबर से केवल एक ही फॉर्म भरा जा सकता है। एक मोबाइल नंबर से एक से अधिक फॉर्म भरने पर आवेदन स्वीकार नहीं किया जाएगा। इसलिए एक मोबाइल नंबर से केवल एक ही फॉर्म भरें।
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Empowering the Next Generation: Amar Ujala Foundation Police ki Pathshala at Lala Lajpat Rai Nursing College, MeerutAmar Ujala Foundation's initiative, Police ki Pathshala was hosted at Lala Lajpat Rai Nursing College, marking another milestone in community outreach and education. Deputy SP Navina Shukla, the guest speaker, provided an in-depth session on personal safety and the importance of swift action against harassment.
Deputy SP Shukla’s address highlighted key strategies for students to manage and prevent harassment, emphasizing the immediacy of reporting any incidents. She explored the nuances of responsible social media use, advising students on how to secure their online presence and avoid becoming victims of cybercrimes. "Enduring harassment is never an option," she asserted, encouraging students to always voice their concerns and seek assistance.
The interactive session included practical advice on staying alert to potential dangers and using technology to their advantage. Deputy SP Shukla provided students with essential helpline numbers, urging them to keep these contacts accessible for emergencies.
The event concluded with a Q&A session, where Deputy SP Shukla patiently addressed the students' queries, reinforcing the key messages of awareness and empowerment. The session left a lasting impact, equipping the students with knowledge and confidence to act decisively in safeguarding their personal and professional environments.
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On World Blood Donor Day 6,438 Donated Blood to Save Others LivesGreat Donors… 6,438 Donated Blood to Save Others' Lives
In an inspiring show of community spirit, Amar Ujala Foundation, in collaboration with numerous social organizations, organized blood donation camps across more than 110 cities to mark World Blood Donor Day. This initiative saw an impressive turnout, with 6,438 individuals stepping forward to donate blood, emphasizing the importance of saving lives.
Blood donation camps were held in over 110 cities, resulting in the collection of 6,438 units of blood across 125 camps. Participants from various states, including Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Punjab, enthusiastically supported the cause.
The campaign witnessed significant contributions from different locations: Chandigarh collected 515 units, Lucknow 682, Dehradun 395, Agra 335, Bareilly 274, Gorakhpur 208, and Meerut alone collected an outstanding 775 units. Each donor was honored with a certificate of appreciation from Amar Ujala Foundation, recognizing their invaluable contribution.
This widespread support from social and community organizations made the campaign a resounding success. Individuals from diverse backgrounds came together, demonstrating a shared sense of social responsibility and commitment to community welfare.
The entire campaign highlighted the spirit of humanity, as thousands contributed selflessly to save lives. Amar Ujala Foundation’s appeal to donate blood not only raised awareness but also showcased the collective effort of communities to support a noble cause.
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Atul Maheshwari Chhatravritti 2023 facilitation ceremonyStudents who have achieved the Atul Maheshwari Scholarship were honored at a grand ceremony organized by Amar Ujala Foundation. The students met Rajul Maheshwari, Chairman of Amar Ujala Group who encouraged them by saying, "Get to know yourself, expand your knowledge, and give direction to your life."
Life is never easy. Many challenges arise, and the true success of life lies in facing these difficulties. Even when life is tough, one should not despair but rise to face struggles head-on. This was the essence of the guidance given by Rajul Maheshwari, Chairman of the Amar Ujala, to the scholarship-winning students.
The students were taken on an educational tour of PM Sangrahalaya and India Gate in Delhi. Rajul Maheshwari chairman of Amar Ujala met the students and shared his own life experiences, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and perseverance. He highlighted that in difficult times, one should not lose hope but rather strive harder and expand their knowledge to overcome obstacles.
The Amar Ujala Foundation organizes these scholarships for meritorious students who face financial difficulties. The Chairman Rajul Maheshwari inspired the students to work diligently and make the best use of the opportunities presented to them. He urged them to stay committed to their education and use their knowledge to bring positive changes in their lives and society.
The tour of Delhi's historical sites aimed to provide the students with a broader perspective and deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of India. This educational experience was designed to motivate them and instill a sense of pride and determination to achieve their goals despite the challenges they might face.
1. Meeting Rajul Maheshwari Boosted Confidence:
- Students who achieved the Atul Maheshwari Scholarship met with Rajul Maheshwari, Chairman of Amar Ujala. He motivated them by sharing insights about hard work, knowledge, and direction in life.
2. Touring Delhi and Sharing First Experiences:
- The students had an exciting tour of Delhi, which included CDS General Anil Chauhan home, PM Sangrahalaya and India Gate. They shared their new experiences with great enthusiasm.
3. Certificates and Medals Raised Morale:
- The distribution of certificates and medals at the ceremony elevated the students' spirits and motivated them to strive for higher achievements.
The event, organized by Amar Ujala Foundation, not only recognized the achievements of these students but also provided them with a platform to share their experiences and motivate each other. The students left the ceremony with renewed energy and a clear vision for their future.
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Role Model, Create Discipline for Yourself, This Will Make Your Life Better: CDS General Anil ChauhanUnder the aegis of Amar Ujala Foundation, as part of the 'Atul Maheshwari Chhatravritti' (Scholarship) initiative, CDS Anil Chauhan interacted with promising students.
In a warm and motivational session, Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan advised students to set discipline for themselves and create role models to improve their lives. Sharing his own experiences, he highlighted that despite coming from a modest background, he made his way to the Sainik School through determination and support.
The event took place at the Campus of General Anil Chauhan home where CDS met and encouraged the students who had won the scholarship. He shared valuable insights and answered the children's questions, urging them to remain focused and dedicated towards their goals.
In an emotional note, CDS General Anil Chauhan shared how meeting the young scholarship recipients brought back memories of his own childhood. He reminisced about the struggles and the support he received which shaped his career. The event was not just a formal interaction but a heartfelt connection between a leader and aspiring young minds.
The ceremony concludes with the reflections of the students who felt motivated and inspired by the interaction with CDS Anil Chauhan. They expressed their gratitude for the opportunity provided by Amar Ujala Foundation and vowed to strive towards their ambitions with renewed vigor.
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