We know money can’t buy happiness. But it can buy something else — just look at Delhi this winter! The city’s 'Disastercard' is swiping us straight into smog. Industrial and vehicular emissions, low temperatures, stagnant winds, stubble burning, and festive firecrackers are turning the air toxic. And the hidden charges? Far beyond coughing or wheezing, Delhi’s air is harming almost every organ — raising heart disease, worsening asthma, affecting mental health, complicating pregnancies, and stunting lung growth in children. So, beware of this Disastercard, dear Young Environmentalists. Its cost is …

Eat Healthy. Breathe Healthy. Stay... ***************************** Zillions of vehicles are emitting a cocktail of poisonous gases. Industries spewing forth more of it. Burning crops, waste dumps on fire, construction and demolition dust, Diwali firecrackers... Winter is here with a host of triggers for a variety of ailments. Add to it, the gastronomic indulgence that the festive season occasions, a time when adulterated food assumes a particularly menacing appearance. The question is, will the Jawan in all of us be able to deal with this double jeopardy?

To burst or not to burst?’ is a question many young humans might be asking as the patakha (firecracker) season begins. Teachers and doctors tend to advice against firecrackers but there’s always a paan-chewing uncle or a macho friend who’ll bully you kids into becoming enthusiastic arsonists. It’s usually a tough choice to make. Some additional information is always a good help in firming up ones’ resolutions. Therefore, let's throw some light on the history, chemistry, and eco-friendliness of patakhas.

Most of us love fireworks during Diwali. But these bright and colourful crackers have a dark side It's the toxic metals that give fireworks the beautiful colours we find magical The red colour of a firecracker comes from Strontium, a metal that causes bone growth problems in children Barium, which gives fireworks the green colour, is harmful to the nervous system, the heart and can cause tremors, weakness, anxiety, shortness of breath and paralysis.