Inspirations - THE YOUNG CRUSADER

by Life Positive

A lucky few though appear to be born with it. Meet 12-year-old Utkarsh, a Std VIII student of the Brij Bihari Sahai (BBS) Inter College in Allahabad, who is also the editor, and publisher of a weekly handwritten newspaper called Jagriti. The lofty aim of Jagriti is to awaken civil society by highlighting issues like the environment and female foeticide.

The periodical is distributed free of charge and boasts of about 150 readers mainly comprising his school friends, neighbours and family.

So what possesses a youth who could be playing a video game or a sport like his peers to take on the hard role of crusader?

According to Utkarsh's father Hari Prasad, Utkarsh was inspired to serve his country after reading an article on Indo-China relations in a Hindi daily. When he asked his father how he could do so, his father suggested making people aware of their rights. Ergo: Jagriti.

"I try to cover social issues pertaining to environment, female foeticide and others in the editorial section, and also information about public welfare schemes and important government policies for the betterment of the poor or children," Utkarsh added.

Jagriti also carries success stories of scientists, political leaders and other prominent personalities.

But how does he get time from his studies to bring out a weekly newspaper?

"I believe if anyone is passionate about something, he or she can take out some time to pursue his passion, irrespective of the hectic schedule," Utkarsh replied.

Way to go, Utkarsh.