KABAAD-SE-JUGAAD

It was past midnight when Kartavya team of senior batch announced its idea of
conducting an event Kabad-se-Jugaad for the PGP-6 batch. It pumped some
fresh energy into us and the enthusiasm level of the batch rose instantly. My
mind was suddenly trying to concentrate on what all junk material was there in
my room and in vicinity. How could I possibly use it to create something useful
out of it. Looking at the waste collected by my batch mates in the given time slot
of 15 minutes, there was cardboard, polythene, old curtains, newspapers, plastic
bottles, thermocol, e-waste (broken chargers and headphones) and what not. As
a motivation to successfully complete the task, there was an urge to innovate on
these items and put it into the best utility in the limited time allotted to us. By
the end of the 45 minutes, and with the collective efforts and presence of mind
of the team mates, all the teams came up with something unique and useful. The
idea behind the product was conveyed to the remaining batch in a small
presentation following completion of the task. The products were judged by a
panel consisting of Kartavya members from the senior batch based on factors
like innovation and practicability. The most fascinating product was a multipurpose stand made up of paper, plastic and cardboard waste. It can store small
items like pins and combs and also had a provision for hanging light-weight
things. Another product that caught everyones eyes was a pet-house. It had
special features like a cushioned bed for the pet, window for fresh air and also a
plate for pet-food.
The most important aspect of conducting this activity was realising the motive
behind it. We, as consumers, dispose off much waste, be it organic or inorganic.
It is becoming increasingly necessary to realise that what can be recycled
should be recycled so as to reduce the harmful effects on the environment.
Coming from the city beautiful, Chandigarh, I have seen a practical example of
this activity from a close end The Rock Garden, developed by Late Shri Nek
Chand. Spread over an area of 40 acres, every part of the garden is made up of
waste and throw-away items that he collected from demolition and dumping
sites. His deep vision turned a gorge in deep forests into a landmark tourist spot
attracting 5000 visitors daily. All that is required is a broader outlook and respect
towards the Mother Nature.

MY ROLE IN KARTAVYA
Work for a cause, not for applause
Community service has always been a passion for me. Having taken corporate
line as a career option, CSR is the best link to stay connected with my passion. If
selected to kartavya, I will like to take up the role where I can create maximum
impact with my efforts. Giving a share of my success back to the society that
played an indispensible and a significant role in helping me reach here will be the
only agenda in my mind.
I hope to add value to Kartavya through my past experience with non-profit
organisations like Rotaract Club of Chandigarh, H.E.A.L. Society and others. Now
in Chhattisgarh, on analysing some social concerns here, I came across a study
that reveals high iron content in the ground water of southern districts of the
state. One of the initiatives that I would like to take up is a proposal followed by
an action plan to treat the red water before supplying it to the children in
government schools, maybe through small scale IRP (Iron Removal Plants).
Analysing local issues and trying to find a practical solution will definitely
increase the credit-worthiness of the club.