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.

Carbon is a chemical element found widely in the universe. It is the basis of our life. But what about ‘blue carbon’?

Honeybees are an integral part of mountain farming in Himachal Pradesh. They are a source of income, nutrition, and medicine for mountain communities. These tiny superorganisms help in the pollination of plants, which increases the productivity of crops and maintains the biodiversity of the region.Traditionally, farmers in Himachal Pradesh keep the indigenous honeybee called...

The market today is flooded with bright, shiny toys and soft clothes for babies. But how is this related to microplastics in their feces? The market today is flooded with bright, shiny toys and soft clothes for babies. But how is this related to microplastics in their feces? Most products today like sipper cups, lunch boxes, baby bottles and wiping napkins are made of a substance called PET or polyethylene terephthalate. PET is taken from natural gas and crude oil. It is also another version of the polyester fabric...