The whole aim of human existence is to create peace, tranquillity and happiness

 Q. All of us have the power to make small changes in our behaviour, surroundings and our relationships that can help us not only to lead a happy life but also spread cheer and goodwill around us. You are Niraj/Nirja. Draft a speech to be delivered in the Inter House Speech Competition, on the topic ‘The whole aim of human existence is to create peace, tranquillity and happiness’. (120 - 150 words) 

Esteemed judges, respected teachers, and my dear friends

Today, I stand before you to share a simple yet profound truth: the ultimate purpose of our existence is to cultivate peace, tranquillity, and happiness. It's not about grand gestures or extraordinary achievements; it's about the small acts of kindness that ripple through our lives and the world around us.

Each of us possesses the power to create a ripple effect of positivity. A smile shared, a helping hand extended, a kind word spoken – these seemingly insignificant actions can transform lives. When we choose compassion over conflict, understanding over judgment, and love over hate, we sow the seeds of peace and harmony.   

Let us strive to be beacons of light in the darkness, spreading warmth and joy wherever we go. By nurturing our own inner peace, we can inspire others to do the same. Let us embrace the power of empathy, the beauty of forgiveness, and the strength of unity.

Remember, true happiness is not found in material possessions or fleeting pleasures, but in the connections we forge with others and the positive impact we make on the world. Let us live our lives with purpose, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to creating a more peaceful and harmonious future for all.   

Thank you.

English Dominance: A Threat to India's Languages

 Q. The English language has acquired a privileged position in India. It has caused the neglect of other Indian languages, including Hindi. Is there a need to pause and reflect on the situation? Write an article in about 120-150 words. 

English Dominance: A Threat to India’s Languages
By:

English has become very important in India. It is used everywhere, from schools to workplaces. But this has led to a problem: other Indian languages, like Hindi or other regional languages, are being neglected.

When only English is given preference, people who don't know English are left behind. They find it difficult to get good jobs or study at good schools. This hurts their chances in life.

To solve this issue, we need to value all Indian languages. We should teach Hindi and other regional languages in schools and use them in government work. This will help everyone, especially those who come from rural backgrounds.

By promoting all languages, India can become a truly multilingual nation.

Additional points:
• As English becomes the preferred language for education, career advancement, and social mobility, regional languages are being gradually eroded. The consequences are far-reaching, resulting in a loss of cultural heritage and diversity.
• It is essential to recognize the value of native languages and take corrective measures to promote their use. We must encourage multilingualism and support initiatives that fosters the growth of Hindi and other Indian languages. By doing so, we can preserve our rich linguistic tapestry (connection) and ensure that our cultural identity is not subsumed (absorbed) by the dominance of English. Let us strive for more inclusive and diverse language landscape in India. 

Dominance: supreme influence, control

Combating Loneliness: A Call to Connect

 Q. Nuclear family system, lack of communication with parents and siblings, stress related to studies and peer pressure are some of the reasons leading to loneliness among the youth. This in turn is resulting in a variety of problems like development of suicidal and homicidal tendencies, depression and a feeling of insecurity etc. Write an article in not more than 200 words suggesting ways of dealing with this problem. Give it a suitable heading. 

Combating Loneliness: A Call to Connect
By: ABC

Loneliness, a silent epidemic, is increasingly affecting today’s youth. Factors such as the nuclear family structure, diminished communication with parents and siblings, academic stress, and peer pressure contribute to this growing issue. This, in turn, can lead to serious mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.

To address this pressing concern, it’s imperative to foster stronger connections and promote mental well-being. Firstly, by prioritising relationships, we can make/devote time for quality interactions with friends and family. Engaging in meaningful conversations, sharing experiences and offering support to youth are the key factors in combating loneliness. Additionally, open communication with youth is playing a vital role. A safe and open environment for discussions about feelings, fears and aspirations can help in combating loneliness among youth.

Moreover, youth should be encouraged to join some social groups or participate in clubs, sports team or community organizations to connect with like-minded individuals and build lasting friendships. The last but not the least that they should limit their screen time as the Excessive screen time can lead to feelings of isolation. To say is, a balanced digital interactions with real-world connections is also playing a very significant role in combating loneliness among youth.

By implementing these strategies, we can empower young people to overcome loneliness and build stronger, more fulfilling lives. Let’s work together to create a more connected and compassionate society.

• Epidemic: a large number of people or animals suffering from the same disease at the same time. (Small geographical area) 

• strategies: plan designed to achieve objective/aim.

Stunt Bikers: A Dangerous Trend

 Q. There is a fad among youth for sports bikes and very often they indulge in stunts to attract the attention of the public. This results disruption of law and order and cases of road-rage have also been reported by the traffic police. Despite a ban on this activity, there are various clubs which come out on the road in groups replicating the stunts in films. Write an article on ‘Stunt-bikers’, the dangers they are prone to and give suggestions on obedience of traffic rules on the road. 

Stunt Bikers: A Dangerous Trend
By: NOP

The allure of high-speed thrills and the desire for public admiration have led to a surge in the popularity of stunt biking among the youth. While these daredevil stunts may seem exciting, they pose significant risks to both the riders and the public.

A Risky Pursuit
Stunt biking involves a range of dangerous maneuvers, including wheelies, stoppies, and jumps. These activities often take place on public roads, disregarding traffic rules and endangering the lives of pedestrians and other motorists. The consequences of such reckless behavior can be severe, ranging from minor injuries to fatal accidents.

Disruption and Road Rage
The reckless behavior of stunt bikers often leads to disruptions in traffic flow and public order. Their loud exhaust systems and aggressive riding styles can provoke road rage incidents, escalating tensions between motorists. Furthermore, these activities can damage public infrastructure and private property, leading to additional costs and inconvenience.

The Need for Regulation
Despite the inherent dangers and negative societal impact, stunt biking continues to thrive. To address this issue, stricter enforcement of traffic laws is crucial. Authorities should impose hefty fines and penalties on individuals who engage in such activities. Additionally, awareness campaigns should be launched to educate the public about the risks associated with stunt biking.

Promoting Road Safety
To ensure the safety of all road users, it is imperative to promote responsible riding habits. Young bikers should be encouraged to participate in organized events and competitions that provide a safe and controlled environment for their stunts. By channeling their energy into legitimate platforms, they can fulfill their passion for biking without endangering themselves or others.

In conclusion, stunt biking is a dangerous trend that needs to be curbed. By enforcing traffic laws, raising awareness, and promoting responsible riding habits, we can create safer roads for everyone.

Vocabulary:
• allure: attraction, powerful attractiveness or charm.
• thrills: feeling of great pleasure or excitement, an exciting or pleasurable experience.
• admiration: प्रशंसा appreciation
• daredevil: dangerous
• exciting: pleasurable, make somebody happy, to make somebody react in particular way.
• pose: to cause something, especially a problem or difficulty. 
• pursuit: the action of trying to achieve or get something, a recreational activity.
• maneuvers: movements, skillful plan.
• wheelies: a trick or manoeuvre whereby a bicycle or motorcycle is ridden for a short distance with the front wheel raised off the ground.
• stoppies: A stoppie is a bicycle or motorcycle trick where the rider lifts the back wheel off the ground by applying the front brake and then riding on the front wheel for a short distance.
• exhaust: drain or empty; exhaust system: a system consisting of the parts of an engine through which burned gases or steam are discharge.
• thrive: grow
• legitimate: lawful, legal 

• endangering: to cause danger

• enforce: to make people obey a law or rule or do something that they do not want to.