Billion Beats isa beautiful ideaDDeeaarr ffrriieennddss,,

Billion Beats, an e-paperaimed at capturing positivestories, is indeed a beautifulidea.It should set a new tradition

by celebrating the success ofIndians wherever they are. Itmay be from an agriculturalvillage or a fishing village; itmay be from a dairy village orfrom the service sector. Billion Beats should tap

and spread the success ofIndians and their glad tid-ings. We have islands of suc-cess in every field and weshould connect them tomake a garland.The idea of Billion Beats is

to make every Indian write. Iam confident that Billion Beatswould create knowledge con-nectivity among the people.My greetings and best

wishes to the editorial team.

The constant bombardment ofnegative news in the mediapaints a very distorted pictureof our society. There is a lot ofgoodness in society thatneeds to be highlighted.Values like love, compassion,

a sense of sharing and inner freedom are theuniversal pulse of life that beats in billions ofhearts, whichever cultures or continent theymay be from. I wish you all success incatching this pulse and inspiring youththrough your work, in keeping with the lega-cy of Dr Kalam.

-- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Spiritual Guru, Art of Living

Dr Kalam had many dreams.We are making an honesteffort to propel them one afteranother through silent work.We will strive hard to inspirethe future generation of Indiathrough various productive

missions. I am happy that the family mem-bers are united in spreading his mission.Billion Beats was very close to Dr Kalam’sheart.

- Dr Naseema Maraikayar, FounderChairperson, Dr A P J Abdul Kalam

International Foundation

Billion Beats is a great conceptand a much-needed one, con-sidering we are surrounded bya plethora of negative news. Iam confident that Billion Beatswill empower ordinary citizensof this country. - Raji Pattamana, Housewife

BILLION WISHES

NOVEMBER 14, 2015 SINCE 2007 | NOT FOR SALEVOL 1 | ISSUE NO. 1

Legendary music director Ilayaraja launches the logo of Dr A P J Abdul KalamInternational Foundation in Chennai on October 11, 2015.

MISSION RELAUNCHEDBy Dr Anantha Krishnan M

It’s serendipity that I am writingthis piece for Billion Beats again.Around the same time in 2007, Iremember sitting with GuruKalam, past midnight inHyderabad, finalizing the firstedition of Billion Beats to belaunched on Children’s Day.Upset with the increasing num-

ber of negative reports in themedia, Guru Kalam was alwaysconcerned about its impact onyounger generations. He hadexpressed his desire to relaunchBillion Beats just days before hisdemise. And I am delighted thatHouse of Kalam (Rameswaram)has decided to take up the mission.The new-look Billion Beats sticks

to the very principle Guru Kalamhad in mind, when he hand-picked a group of young journal-ists from Bangalore to run theshow. The core idea of this e-paper is to capture inspiring sto-

ries of Indians all across the globe.“Ensure that every email is

opened and worthy ones acknowl-edged. Don’t disappoint people,because they write to us withhope,” Guru Kalam once toldTeam Billion Beats.I am happy that the flightpath

for Billion Beats will now be chart-ed by Inspired Indian Foundation(IIF), a popular movement forunsung heroes in Bangalore. IIFbelieves in more action and lesstalk. Results and not claims.We are on a mission mode -- car-

rying forward the vision of GuruKalam. To take India forward, tomake India a developed nation.

Billion Beats is one honest step inthat direction capturing the ‘Pulseof India.’ The ‘write’ way!And, YOU are our inspiration!

� The writer is an aerospace journalist and a Post-Doctoral

Fellow with University of Mysore.He is the Editor of Billion Beats

and tweets @writetake.

India by 2020: Every youth must insure own futureBy Wg Cdr Rakesh Sharma (Retd), Ashoka Chakra

The year 2020 as envisaged by India’sPeoples’ President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam,

is just a shade above 4 years from now – not abig number given our ancient civilization. In

this fast moving world,we ought to be lookingahead rather than atour past and hence

this attempt togaze in thecrystal ball.By 2020,more than66 croreIndianswill bebelowthe ageof 25and

the average age of India in that year is expect-ed to be 29 – much lower than that of China(37 years) and Japan (48 years). Different peo-ple interpret this fact very differently.Economists and planners look at this as ademographic dividend that can be leveragedto boost the nation’s economy, while politi-cians see it as a potential vote bank that needsto be focused on and so on.To the discerning youth of today, these are

just numbers. Knowing very well that thisconstituency is aspirational, it is concernedonly with the profound influence that gover-nance exerts on creating opportunities andthrough it, personal wealth.It is said that every country gets the govern-

ment it deserves. This cannot be truer than itis, in our case. We expect the government todo everything for us, while we unthinkinglydo everything to make governance a difficulttask for them. We want corruption to be erad-icated but we do not hesitate for a second

before bribing policemen, government inspec-tors, politicians and a host of others. We raisedemands for a clean country but carelessly lit-ter public places ourselves almost every day.If our great country has to regain its past

glory, it needs to be driven by our demo-graphic dividend: our youth. The very youththat runs the risk of not realizing their aspira-tions if social indices in our country do notimprove; and if our civil services do notbecome more open, transparent, clean andefficient.Every young student and youth of today

needs to insure his own future by positivelycontributing towards the change he or shewishes to see in our country. Today’s studentis going to raise a family tomorrow. Everyfamily needs a role model it can look up to.Be that model!My best wishes to Team Billion Beats!

� The writer is the first and only Indianastronaut to go to space

I am happy to know that BillionBeats is being relaunched. Itwas my dream to meet KalamSir once, but I couldn't. Now, Iwill look forward to readinginspiring stories of Indiansthrough Billion Beats. Hope tosee some stories from sporting fraternity aswell. Glad that his work is being carried for-warded by his family."

- Saina Nehwal, International Badminton player

Billion Beats is a conceptwhich was dear to Dr Kalam.He launched it with great hopeand I wish that the currentteam carries forward his ideaof capturing positive articles. Ilook forward to contribute infuture issues.

- Dr Satheesh Reddy, ScientificAdvisor to Defence Minister WRITE INDIA, WRITE

FROM GURU KALAM

Do you have a success story toshare? An inspiration that can beimbibed? We welcome short con-tributions along with a passport-size photo, name, mailing address,phone number & scanned ID proof.Write in at: billionbeats@gmail.com

The above message was givenby Guru Kalam during

the launch of Billion Beatson November 14, 2007.

New-BB:Layout 1 11/12/2015 10:18 AM Page 1

billion beats is an e-paper published by Dr A P J Abdul Kalam International Foundation headquartered in Rameswaram. It is edited, designed anduplinked by a team from Inspired Indian Foundation (www.inspiredindianfoundation.org), Bangalore. billion beats will hit the web every month

and you are free to use the content by giving due credit to the publication. THE TEAM | Mentor: A P J M Maraikayar | Editorial Advisors from House of Kalam: Dr Naseema Maraikayar, A P J MJainullabudeen, G K Moinudeen, A P J M J Sheik Saleem, A P J M J Sheik Dawood,

A P J M S Nagoor Roja | Editor: Dr Anantha Krishnan M | National Coordinator: Sindhu A | Desk: Aaron Mathew | Design: Manju |Email: billionbeats@gmail.com | Twitter: @HouseOfKalam | FB: https://www.facebook.com/BillionBeatsOfficial/ | Phone: +91 77080 04744

By Vagdevi H.S.

As they say, the realopportunity for suc-

cess lies within the per-son and not the job; aswas proved wonderfullyby Mohan H. M., a sim-ple bus conductor in acity bus who hassecured a Doctorate degree in History.Born in a small besmirched village of

Harohalli, Mohan completed his primaryeducation and moved to Mandya for collegeeducation. Nurturing his mind with greatthoughts and ambitions, he came to Mysuruto continue his education. However, fate hada different plan. With the sad demise of hisfather, he had to quit studies and start work-ing for Karnataka State Road TransportCorporation (KSRTC). When he started issu-ing tickets to hundreds of students commut-ing by bus every day, the concealed sparkwithin him kindled again, which promptedhim to work towards his dreams.He completed his Master’s Degree in

History from KSOU and wrote the entranceexam for Ph.D. To his surprise, he stood sec-ond in the test, which assured him a seat tocontinue his research work. During the entirecourse, he juggled between work and a famil-ial life while pursuing research paid rich div-idends. Finally, all his hard work paid offand he was awarded the Doctorate degree.Being a voracious reader, he wants to

publish books in Kannada to help studentsfrom rural areas to get a better scope of edu-cation. This, he says, is his humble service tothe society. “As a student, I faced a lot oftrouble not having access to research materi-al in Kannada, which limited my resources,”he says. Today, not only his family andfriends but also the KSRTC is incrediblyproud of him and his achievements.Dr Mohan H.M. has proved that the jour-

ney of success begins with one step and thestrong determination to succeed.

� The writer is a Project Fellow withUGC UPE–FA–II, Vijnana Bhavan,

University of Mysore

The neighbourhood kids in Saji Thomas’remote village Idukki (in Kerala) used to

call him 'potten' (idiot), but this wasn’t theusual mockery done by kids towards a deafand mute boy. This teasing was a dab at howhe was constantly trying to piece together junkinto something new, something useful.The 45 year old 'potten' has come a long way.

Thomas, quite recently, designed and built atwin-seater ultra-light aircraft on his own fromused parts and recycled material, which gothim into some noted record books. He is alsogoing to be featured on Discovery Channel in aprogramme called HRX Superheroes, whichshowcases nine people who overcame physicaldisability to achieve their dreams.His ultra-light aircraft, called Saji X Air-S,

has already done several successful flights at aprivate flight training academy owned by aThiruvananthapuram based retired WingCommander, S K J Nair.Thomas’ passion for planes was kindled

when, as a 15 year old, he saw a small aircraftspraying pesticides on nearby rubber planta-

tions. He mustered enough courage to go and'talk' to the pilots, one of whom gave the mutekid their Mumbai address. A few months later,Thomas left for Mumbai. Impressed by hisenthusiasm, the pilots gave him some aviationmanuals to read up and put him on odd jobs.Over the years, Thomas has had to undergo

severe hardships to build the aircraft, whichincluded selling the only five cents of land heowned. "He could only construct the frame of

an aircraft in his first attempt. The second time,the aircraft could not fly as a motor bike enginewas used in it," said Mariya, his wife. Afterselling the second aircraft's model to an engi-neering college, Thomas bought an aircraftengine with the money and completed thework on Saji X Air-S last year.Thomas, whose name is mentioned in India

Book of Records as the first differently-abledperson to build an aircraft, has often worked asa rubber tapper, an electrician and band pho-tographer to earn a living. "It was when we lostall hope that support came from Nair whomade arrangements for Thomas to test his air-craft and also helped him to fly it atManimuthar in Tamil Nadu," Mariya said.Thomas is now seeking a license from the

Directorate General of Civil Aviation andplans to build a twin-engine aircraft. He is alsoseeking a job as an aeronautics mechanic andhopes that one of the reputed aeronauticalcompanies recruits him.� Courtesy: The Times of India. Reproducedwith the permission of TOI Editor, Kerala

They called him an idiot, but he gave wings to dreams2 NOV 14, 2015

NO LITTERING, PLEASE: I wasborn in the USA and am cur-rently living in Canada. Thelast time I visited India, Ienjoyed my stay with ourrelatives. I adored almosteverything I saw, thoughthere were a few things I would change.The ‘India of My Dreams’ would have

minimal amounts of pollution. Thisincludes zero honking of vehicles whichwould mean an increase in patienceamong drivers. Another point - I don’twant littering anywhere. This could meanbigger garbage bins, better garbage dis-posal, more responsible citizens- whichisn’t really too much to ask for!The biggest point in my opinion - I

love animals and I hate to see strays, beit dogs, cats or anything. I suggest wehave more shelters for them. Also, if youhave a pet, just don’t leave it out if youdecide you cannot handle it.As a concluding point, I would love to

see cleaner buildings. A little more main-tenance would certainly help. All of theabove are points that I think can help cre-ate the India of my dreams.

� Medha Velpula, Grade 6,William G Davis Senior Public

School, Ontario, CanadaBOOKS ARE BEST BET: I amgoing to share with you mythoughts on books and thehabit of reading. Our belovedformer President of India DrA P J Abdul Kalam oncefamously said: “One good

book is equal to a hundred good friendsand one good friend is equal to a library.”Recently I read in the newspapers that

his family members, while launching theDr A P J Abdul Kalam InternationalFoundation in Chennai, said that one oftheir mission will be to inspire the youthto set up a small library in every house. Iwas very happy to read the news andhave already taken a small step - gavebirth to a library at my home, which hasaround 10 books now.I dream of an India with a library in

every house. Yes, it is possible.Books are priceless assets we all

should own, my friends. The knowledgewe get from books will shape us intoresponsible citizens of this country. Theyhelp us to unravel the mysteries of thiswonderful universe, acting as a source ofknowledge, thereby empowering us. As young children, we must take the

guidance of our teachers, parents andelders while choosing the right kind ofbook. Hence, what to read is importantand how to read makes the art of readingreally enjoyable.

Reading can influence your thoughts.It can refresh your mind and also adds topersonality development. The more youread, more is the confidence you build totake on the challenges of the world.In today’s world, children are virtually

addicted to modern electronic gadgets.While technology plays an important rolein shaping our future, we should not for-get the powerful role books play in ourlives. Let’s take a pledge to make India adeveloped nation by empowering our-selves through books and reading.Knowledge is power and it stays forever.

� Vaishnav Venugopal, Class III,Pearl Brightland Discovery School,

Paravoor, Alappuzha, Kerala

MY BEAUTIFUL DREAM: Lastnight I had a beautifuldream. In the dream I sawstudents pursuing the sub-jects of their choice. Thejob opportunities werewider. Every nook and cor-

ner of our locality was spic and span.Sports and games had an important rolein every school. Child labour was nowhere to be seen. Each child, irrespec-tive of the income group, had the right toeducation. Healthy and good food wasavailable to every child. Each child hadthe option of pursuing his/her dreambased on their talent.People were aware of pollution and

took necessary measures to avoid it.

There was greenery everywhere. Roads were safe and clean and with-

out ditches and with a proper drainagesystem. Law and order was stern andcrimes had considerably decreased inthe society. Our nation had flourishedrapidly in every sector.Suddenly I woke up. And I wished my

dream changes into reality very soon as Ilove my India.

�� Hemanth V, Class VI,BEL Primary School (Kannadamedium), Bangalore, Karnataka

INDIA FILLED WITH TREES: Indiain my dreams is a nation fullof trees. I have always won-dered why we cannot planttrees every day. Why can’twe gift saplings? Why can’twe make house visits andpresent saplings to our friends andneighbours?A lot has been said about the impor-

tance of tree plantations. But, are wedoing enough to save Planet Earth?I have a solution. Schools must give

marks to students who plant maximumnumber of saplings every year. Imagine howgreen our country will become in few years.It’s possible and I hope that someonereads my suggestion and takes action.�� Afrin Maryam A, Class VI, National

Academy School (ICSE)Pattinamkathan, Ramnathapuram

Tamil Nadu

By Stuti Sarkar

Just like others, I also have somedreams. When I think about it, manydreams come to my mind. I am trying tocapture some of them for Billion Beats.Corruption, dishonesty, crime and ter-

ror are our biggest enemies. India isprogressing a lot in science and tech-nology, but these bad elements aremaking our country weak day by day.My main dream is to build a nation freefrom them. I have another dream of creating an

India where everyone is equal. There wilbe no division among them based oncast and creed. My dream is to spreadpatriotic feelings amongst all Indians. Inthis age, it is lacking.People call us differently-abled or

children with special needs. We are spe-cial, so our needs are different from otherchildren. When our problems are initiallydiagnosed by doctors, our parents faceenormous troubles.

Our childhood starts with differenttypes of therapies and medications,both of which very expensive and thusour parents face financial problems.They are put through greater difficultiesdue to our mood disorders.We are citizens of our country too.

The government should give somefinancial support to the parents of spe-cial children. Society can give somemoral support too. I think our conditionhas improved a bitnow, but we are stillnot in the main-stream.Please organise

awareness pro-grammes for chil-dren with specialneeds fromtime totime.Jai

Hind!

His ticket to successcame from strong will

INDIA OF MY DREAMS

�� Stuti Sarkar is a differently-abled girl,dreaming to become a writer one day.

India of My Dreams section is open to schoolchildren, including those with special needs. Shoot off your thoughts alongwith a passport-size photograph, scanned ID proof, school details and phone number to: billionbeats@gmail.com

“My National Flag shall always fly in my heart andI will bring glory to my nation. - Guru Kalam

New-BB:Layout 1 11/12/2015 10:18 AM Page 2