OBJECTIVES
The training programme beginning at HESCO headquarters from September 15, 2013 is aimed to
Demonstrate construction of Mid-term shelter having load-bearing walls of Un-course Rubble Masonry, with CGI sheet pitched roof supported on Timber understructure
Train masons and carpenters so that they are able to build this shelter elsewhere and also train other artisans to build the same
Teams of trained artisans – masons and carpenters – are able to build similar structures across the devastated areas of Uttarakhand, wherever they are required to do so.
APPROACH
Hands-on training on actual construction of one mid-term shelter with special emphasis on four different aspects. These are (a) Basic understanding of earthquake resistant features in UCR masonry, (b) Proper construction with stone in mud mortar from foundation to sill level, (c) CGI Roof installation including the timber under-structure, and (d) Training of other artisans by them.
Subsequent to this the trained artisans will be able to continue the work and construct more shelters where ever designated by the donor agencies under the guidance of local engineers/supervisors.
For Funding AGENCY
All the costs involved in the training programme – materials and labor will be borne by Amar Ujala Foundation (AUF).
All other incidental costs like lodging and boarding of trainees, their transport etc. may be borne by AUF.
Mason trainees will be given a “mason booklet” (made by NCPDP, AUF & HESCO) as a reference material for the future construction.
A pamphlet guide specifically on the construction of this mid-term shelter could be quickly put together if its need is felt for construction of shelters ahead. NCPDP could provide all the technical support for it.
All Building Artisans will work with their hands on all different items. So they must bring all necessary tools that they regularly use.
MASON TRAINING
Ground Work:
NCPDP had suggested the following before this programme was finalized.
Based on the earlier experiences in other parts of the country the following ground-work will have to be carried out.
At the Site:
Identify site where this can be constructed where maximum number of people are able to visit and see the structure
If the site is located in the campus of an NGO, it will be beneficial, since they could be a spokesperson as desired by the programme
Local engineers may be invited to see the construction of this structure.
Deliver all necessary materials at least two days prior to the training date.
Soak the mud for mortar few days prior to the start of the construction. If found suitable, the soil excavated from the foundation may be used for this purpose.
Avoid the round stone from river at all cost. They are not suitable for construction without much dressing which calls for too much undue effort.
Get to the site all necessary critical infrastructures a day ahead of time.
Make arrangement for water at the site since mud mortar as well as cement pointing to last for at least two days of training.
Clear the site area and close surroundings at least one day in advance.
TARN-NCPDP representative will arrive at the site a day in advance to verify that the necessary preparation is done.
Selecting Building Artisans:
Give first preference to masons who have basic skills in stone construction. If enough are not available then bring those who have worked in brick/concrete block masonry. Do not get artisans who are mere experts on plastering, tile laying, bar bending, centering t, or RCC work.
Take every precaution to make sure that the construction laborers are not registered in the guise of masons.
Get artisan registration forms prepared to gather all the database about the participants at Dehradun also at the later five sites.
While registering the artisans it will be crucial to brief them in detail about where they are going, why, what they are going to be doing, what will be the future prospects for them etc. This is nothing but marketing to ensure their meaningful presence at the training program.
Through communication with the Building Artisans it is important to create in them the felt need for the training. The “Objectives” listed above should be clearly conveyed to them.
Also it is crucial to make it explicitly clear to the artisans that they must come to do work and not just to listen to the lecture, and for that they should bring along all their basic tools such as trowel, stone hammer, plumb-bob, cotton string, plastering equipment such as wood batten or aluminium channel. The carpenters must come with saw, chisel, hammer, girmit, hand-drill, pliers etc.
Masons will have to do all the work including mixing of mortar, giving mortar, spraying of water etc. There will not be any labourer. Hence, it is important that there are 20 masons, who will rotate with their responsibilities, and things will be in no more than three days.
Artisans will work in groups.
With nearly twenty artisans or more working, in order to get work out of them adequate supervisory personnel is necessary. Two technical individuals are needed to manage two groups. But one semi-technical person in support is needed to manage other aspects.
Building Artisans are not likely to bring their equipment unless specifically told to. They must be told that if they do not bring it then they will not be allowed to attend the course, nor will they be paid any stipend.
Building Artisans must be instructed beforehand that
what tools they should bring,
they should come on time,
they will be doing work with their hands,
they would receive a certificate, booklets etc.
The training programme will begin with a theory class. Later the focus will be primarily on the hands-on work.
Check all materials at site 24 hours prior to the training to ensure the presence of right materials.
Tasks for the Local Groups:
Procure the materials.
Identify and register the Building Artisans after necessary orientation.
Do the necessary on-site preparation to commence the work on the right day at the right time
Contact local people and NGOs, and invite them to see the work.
On the days of training provide non-technical support at the site.
Tasks of Rajendra and Rupal
To help finalize the design, material list, costing etc.
To prepare booklets for future use of Building Artisans. Optional
To bring along a models for training (desired),
To conduct artisan training jointly with support of technical and non-technical persons including those of the local group
Materials
Construction stone 5 chatta
Mud for mortar free from stone, large particles of sand
Timber as specified
CGI and GI sheets as specified
Water
Cement for pointing
Fine sand for pointing
4”, 2”, and 1” wood nails with few washer
14 gauge GI wire
1” wide soft GI straps for timber connections

अगर 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।

Amar 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.

Great 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.

Students 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.

Under 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.