The Junior Age

Category: Education

All About Marine Turtles: History and Conservation

Sea turtles or marine turtles are reptiles with webbed feet, a streamlined body, and hard shells that protect them from predators. Turtles belong to one of the oldest reptile groups in the world. Turtles were around even 200 million years ago and lived alongside the dinosaurs. This makes them older than snakes, crocodiles, and alligators.

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  • Habitat:  Shallow coastal waters, bays, lagoons, estuaries and occasionally the open ocean
  • Average Lifespan: 50 years or more
  • Diet: Varies from carnivore to omnivore
  • Largest Species: Leatherback
  • Smallest Species: Kemp’s ridley
  • IUCN Red List Status: From Threatened to Endangered

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Interesting facts about the Marine Turtle:

  1. Sea turtles rarely leave the ocean, except to lay eggs in the sand. However, they can migrate long distances. 
  1. There are seven species of marine or sea turtles. Six of them are threatened or endangered. 
  1. Surrounding temperatures play a big role in determining the sex of a baby sea turtle. During incubation, warmer temperatures (above 85°F) result in more female hatchlings, while cooler temperatures (below 85°F) produce more males.
  1. Their shells are made up of over 50 bones fused together. They literally wear their bones on the outside. Turtle bones are light and spongy, which helps them float.
  1. Marine turtles do not have teeth. They have beak-like mouths. 
  1. The Kemp’s ridley can weigh up to 40kg, whereas a leatherback turtles can weigh around 500kg. 
  1. Sea turtles can hold their breath underwater for a very long time. Some sea turtles species can hold their breath underwater for up to five hours! 
  1. Unlike a land turtle, sea turtle cannot retract its limbs, head or neck under its shell. 
  1. Sea turtles play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem of the ocean. By grazing on seagrass beds they maintain productive coral reefs and they also transport essential nutrients from oceans to beaches.

Also Watch full video Fascinating Facts About Marine Turtles

Fun and Easy Screen-Free Weekend Activities for Kids

In today’s digital world, children are spending more time than ever glued to screens. While technology has its place, too much screen time can impact sleep, behavior, and creativity. That’s why many parents are now embracing screen-free weekends—a time to unplug, reconnect, and encourage active, imaginative play.

This article is packed with fun, affordable, and engaging screen-free weekend activities to help your kids explore, learn, and bond with family—no devices required.

Encouraging Inquisitive Minds To Explore The World Around Themselves WITH INFORMATION CARDS

Why Go Screen-Free on Weekends?

Going screen-free, even for just two days a week, offers a variety of benefits for kids:

  • Improves focus and attention span
  • Promotes creativity and independent thinking
  • Enhances physical activity
  • Strengthens family relationships
  • Reduces stress and anxiety

Ready to power down? Here are plenty of screen-free ideas to keep your weekend lively and full of fun!

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Indoor Screen-Free Activities for Kids

1. Build a Fort

Let your kids transform the living room with blankets, cushions, and chairs. Fort-building sparks imagination and keeps them entertained for hours.

2. DIY Crafts and Art Projects

Set up a craft station with paper, glue, scissors, and paint. Projects like paper plate masks, friendship bracelets, or homemade greeting cards are creative and rewarding.

3. Family Board Game or Puzzle Night

Board games are a great way to build critical thinking and social skills. Try classics like Uno, Monopoly, or Scrabble, or pick age-appropriate puzzles for quiet fun.

4. Indoor Treasure Hunt

Create clues and hide small prizes around the house. It’s a fun way to keep kids moving and thinking.

5. Cook or Bake Together

Get kids involved in the kitchen by letting them measure, stir, or decorate. Try simple recipes like homemade pizza, cookies, or fruit salad.

Watch full video on Everything You Need To Know About Heat Waves | How To Keep Kids Safe From Heatwaves?

Outdoor Screen-Free Activities for Kids

6. Backyard Camping

Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, and tell stories under the stars. If you don’t have a yard, create a similar experience at a nearby park.

7. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Give your child a list of things to find in nature (e.g., pinecone, feather, red leaf). This boosts observation skills and encourages exploration.

8. Visit a Local Park or Nature Trail

A walk in nature helps clear the mind and gets the body moving. Bring a picnic and make a day of it!

9. DIY Obstacle Course

Use cones, ropes, or pool noodles to create a fun challenge in your yard. Add jumping, crawling, and balancing tasks to get them moving.

10. Gardening Together

Let kids dig, plant seeds, and water the plants. Gardening teaches patience, responsibility, and a love of nature.

Also read Top Summer Camps in Delhi NCR for Kids

Social & Community-Based Activities

11. Library Visit

Libraries often host storytime sessions, crafts, or reading challenges. It’s a great place for quiet screen-free enrichment.

12. Volunteer as a Family

Help at a local food bank, clean a park, or walk dogs from a shelter. Volunteering teaches empathy and community spirit.

13. Host a Playdate or Game Night

Invite friends over for classic games, relay races, or arts and crafts. No screens required—just good old-fashioned fun.

Also Checkout, Top Kids Bookstores In Delhi NCR

Quiet Time and Mindful Activities

14. Journaling or Drawing

Give your child a blank notebook and some colored pens. Journaling encourages self-reflection, and drawing boosts creativity.

15. Storytelling or Reading Aloud

Let kids choose a book and read aloud together, or make up your own bedtime stories. It’s bonding and brain-boosting all at once.

Tips to Make Screen-Free Weekends a Success

  • Plan Ahead: Make a list of activities and gather materials before the weekend starts.
  • Set Expectations: Let your kids know the plan and get their input to increase buy-in.
  • Be a Role Model: Limit your own screen use to encourage your child to do the same.
  • Create a Routine: Start with a few hours screen-free, then gradually expand to full weekends.

While screens have their place, weekends are a great opportunity to reconnect with your kids and spark creativity in new ways. These screen-free weekend activities offer your family a chance to slow down, engage fully, and make meaningful memories—one fun idea at a time.

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Everything You Need to Know About National Endangered Species Day

Did you know that some of your favourite animals might disappear forever if we don’t protect them? That’s why we celebrate National Endangered Species Day every year – to remember how important it is to take care of animals and plants that are in danger of going extinct. India, along with the rest of the world, has celebrated National Endangered Species Day on the third Friday of May every year since 2006. This year the National Endangered Species Day will be celebrated on May 16.

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History

National Endangered Species Day was started in 2006 by David Robinson and the Endangered Species Coalition in the US to help people learn about animals and plants that are in danger of disappearing forever.

Why is it celebrated?

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, forty percent of animals, insects and plants on this planet are at risk of extinction. The day is celebrated to raise awareness about endangered species-animals and plants that are at risk of extinction because of things like habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and hunting. It reminds us why it is important to protect these species and their homes to keep nature balanced and healthy for future generations.

How is it celebrated in India?

In India, National Endangered Species Day is observed with activities that teach people about the country’s endangered animals. Schools, wildlife groups, museums, and communities organise events such as workshops, online campaigns, and educational programs to spread awareness and encourage people to help protect these species.

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India’s Endangered Animals

Here are some important endangered species in India that you should know about:

  • Bengal Tiger: India’s national animal, the Bengal tiger is critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
  • Asiatic Lion: Found only in the Gir Forest of Gujarat, this lion is smaller than African lions and critically endangered.
  • Snow Leopard: Lives in the Himalayan mountains and is endangered because of habitat loss and conflicts with humans.
  • Red Panda: Looks like a mix of a cat and bear, lives in forests, and is threatened by deforestation and poaching.
  • Great Indian Bustard: One of the heaviest flying birds, critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting.
  • Blackbuck: A beautiful antelope endangered because of poaching and habitat loss.
  • Gharial: A long crocodile found in rivers, endangered mainly due to polluted water.
  • Pangolin: A unique ant-eating mammal poached for its scales and meat, critically endangered.
  • One-horned Rhinoceros: Mostly found in northeastern India, vulnerable but recovering due to conservation.
  • Nilgiri Tahr: A mountain goat living in the Western Ghats, endangered due to habitat loss and climate change.
  • Indian Bison (Gaur): The largest wild cattle, threatened by poaching and habitat loss.
  • Kashmiri Red Stag: Critically endangered deer species found in Dachigam National Park.

Word Check: 

An endangered species is one that’s at serious risk of extinction — meaning it could disappear from the planet entirely. This can happen for several reasons:

  • Habitat loss, such as deforestation and urban development
  • Poaching and illegal trade
  • Pollution, including plastic and chemical waste
  • Climate change, which affects food sources and breeding cycles
  • Invasive species introduced by human activity

Watch full video on Cheetah- The Fastest Mammal on LandLeopard Facts For Kids 

What is Operation Sindoor? All You Need to Know About India’s Military Operation 

In the early hours of May 7, 2025, India launched precision strikes under a military operation code named ‘Operation Sindoor’ on terrorist infrastructure at nine different sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (“PoK”). The Indian Armed Forces used highly sophisticated and niche technology weapons to carry out the strikes.

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Why did India launch Operation Sindoor?

Operation Sindoor was India’s response to the deadly April 22 attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir, during which 26 innocent civilians were killed. Tensions between India and Pakistan grew after this deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir. The attack led to a serious breakdown in relations between the two countries. After the attack, India took several steps meant to punish terror camps based in Pakistan and to send a message to the Pakistan administration that India will not tolerate Pakistan sponsored terrorism. India cut off all trade with Pakistan, closed its borders, and expelled diplomats. India even cancelled the longstanding Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.

After the strikes, later on May 7 morning, the Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri along with two women officers briefed the country on the details of Operation Sindoor. The two women officers were Colonel Sofiya Qureshi from the Indian Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, a helicopter pilot. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said, “The Armed forces conducted Operation Sindoor on the night between May 6 and 7 at 1.05 a.m. and 1.30 a.m. Nine terror camps were targeted and completely destroyed. Terror infrastructures such as centres for recruitment, indoctrination and launch pads are present in Pakistan and PoK”.

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Where did India strike during Operation Sindoor?

Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed forces targeted the following nine places:

  • 2 separate places in Muzaffarabad (PoK)
  • 2 separate places in Kotli (PoK)
  • 1 place in Bhimber (PoK)
  • 2 separate places in Sialkot (Pakistan)
  • 1 place in Bahawalpur (Pakistan)
  • 1 place in Muridke (Pakistan)

India successfully destroyed these terror camps linked to banned terror groups Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen. These groups have carried out many attacks in India. More than 100 terrorists, including five key terrorists responsible for terror attacks in India, were killed during India’s strikes on the terror camps in Pakistan. These locations were identified as key training and operational hubs in Pakistan for terror attacks against India. Further, 11 air bases in Pakistan were also destroyed. Operation Sindoor was executed through the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, conducted from Indian territory.

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What happened after Operation Sindoor?

After the launch of Operation Sindoor by India on May 7, Pakistan flew drones and aircrafts into the Indian airspace all across borders, and launched artillery shelling across the Line of Control. India responded to these attacks by Pakistan by use of appropriate force and successfully neutralised the attacks by Pakistan. The Indian Army inflicted heavy damage on Pakistan.

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Ceasefire the fighting has stopped 

India and Pakistan agreed to halt all military actions on land, air, and sea, with effect from the evening of May 10.

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Why did India target terror camps and Pakistan based terror organisations?

There have been several terrorist attacks in India since 2001 where there has been a direct involvement of Pakistan. Despite India giving evidence, Pakistan has refused to take action against terrorist organisations and continues to extend support to them. The examples of major terrorist attacks include: 2001 Parliament attack, 2008 Mumbai attacks, 2011 attacks in Delhi and Mumbai, 2013 Hyderabad, 2015 Gurdaspur, 2016 Uri, 2017 Amarnath Yathra, and 2019 Pulwama. After the recent Pahalgam attack, India decided to give a befitting reply to the terror attacks on India by terror organisations based in Pakistan.

Also read PM Launches A War Against Obesity 

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Civil Drills

On May 7, India carried out mock drills across 244 districts in the country. These drills, codenamed ‘Operation Abhyas’, were held to ensure that the civilians are prepared and aware about safety protocols. During the drills air raid warning sirens were played in some areas and training was conducted for civilians and students on how to protect themselves during a hostile attack. These mock drills are like fire safety and earthquake drills that you may have at your school. The main reason for conducting the drills was to ensure that everyone stays calm and is prepared.

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If you feel or felt anxious after hearing about Operation Sindoor, here are a few things you can do:

  • Talk to a trusted adult like a parent, teacher, or school counselor about how you are feeling.
  • Ask questions if you are confused or scared. Adults can help explain what’s happening in a way that’s easier to understand and reassure you that you are safe.
  • Focus on calming activities like drawing, reading, playing games, or spending time with friends and family to help distract from anxious thoughts.
  • Remember that safety measures are in place. The Indian government and armed forces worked together to keep everyone safe.

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Padma Awards 2025: Full List of Winners

Padma Vibhushan 2025 Winners

1

Shri M. T. Vasudevan Nair (Posthumous), Literature and Education, Kerala

2

Dr. Duvvur Nageshwar Reddy, Medicine, Telangana

3

Dr. Lakshminarayana Subramaniam, Art, Karnataka

4

Shri Osamu Suzuki (Posthumous), Trade & Industry, Japan

Watch the full video on Who Is Mahatma Gandhi?

Padma Bhushan 2025 Winners

 

1.

Shri Nandamuri Balakrishna, Art, Andhra Pradesh

2.

Shri Vinod Kumar Dham, Science and Engineering, United States of America

3.

Shri Sushil Kumar Modi (Posthumous), Public Affairs, Bihar

4.

Shri Shekhar Kapur, Art, Maharashtra

5.

Shri S. Ajith Kumar, Art, Tamil Nadu

6.

Shri Pankaj R. Patel, Trade and Industry, Gujarat

7.

Dr. Jose Chacko Periappuram, Medicine, Kerala

8.

Dr. Arkalgud Anantaramaiah Surya Prakash, Literature and Education (Journalism), Karnataka

9.

Shri Sreejesh P. R., Sports, Kerala

10.

Shri Pankaj Keshubhai Udhas (Posthumous), Art, Maharashtra

Padma Shri 2025 Winners

1.

Dr. Shyam Bihari Agrawal, Art, Uttar Pradesh

2.

H.E. Shka. Shaikha Ali Jaber Al-Sabah, Yoga, Kuwait

3.

Dr. K. Omanakutty Amma, Art, Kerala

4.

Shri Miriyala Apparao (Posthumous), Art, Andhra Pradesh

5.

Shri Ravichandran Ashwin, Sports, Tamil Nadu

6.

Shri Joynacharan Bathari, Art, Assam

7.

Smt. Begam Batool, Art, Rajasthan

8.

Smt. Arundhati Bhattacharya, Trade and Industry, Maharashtra

9.

Prof. Anil Kumar Boro, Literature and Education, Assam

10.

Shri R. G. Chandramogan, Trade and Industry, Tamil Nadu

11.

Shri Maruti Bhujangrao Chitampalli, Literature and Education, Maharashtra

12.

Shri Bheru Singh Chouhan, Art, Madhya Pradesh

13.

Dr. K. Damodaran, Culinary, Tamil Nadu

14.

Shri Gokul Chandra Das, Art, West Bengal

15.

Smt. Nirmala Devi, Art, Bihar

16.

Shri Hriday Narayan Dikshit, Literature and Education, Uttar Pradesh

17.

Shri Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid, Literature and Education, Uttar Pradesh

18.

Shri Adwaita Charan Gadanayak, Art, Odisha

19.

Dr. Pawan Kumar Goenka, Trade and Industry, Maharashtra

20.

Prof. Bharat Gupt, Art, Delhi

21.

Shri Naren Gurung, Art, Sikkim

22.

Smt. Shalini Devi Holkar, Trade and Industry, Madhya Pradesh

23.

Shri VasudeoTaranath Kamath, Art, Maharashtra

24.

Dr. Jaspinder Narula Kaul, Art, Maharashtra

25.

Shri Stephen Knapp, Literature and Education, United States of America

26.

Shri Lama Lobzang (Posthumous), Spiritualism, Ladakh

27.

Shri Vinayak Lohani, Social Work, West Bengal

28.

Prof. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar Mahapatra, Medicine, Odisha

29.

Shri Baijnath Maharaj, Spiritualism, Rajasthan

30.

Jainacharya Shri Vijay Nityanand Surishwar Ji Maharaj, Spiritualism, Rajasthan

31.

Pt. Ronu Majumdar, Art, Maharashtra

32.

Pt. Tejendra Narayan Majumdar, Art, West Bengal

33.

Shri Sheen Kaaf Nizam, Literature and Education, Rajasthan

34.

Prof. Nitin Nohria, Literature and Education, United States of America

35.

Shri Onkar Singh Pahwa, Trade and Industry, Punjab

36.

Prof. Ratan Kumar Parimoo, Art, Gujarat

37.

Shri Chaitram Deochand Pawar, Social Work, Maharashtra

38.

Dr. Hassan Raghu, Art, Karnataka

39.

Dr. Lakshmipathy Ramasubbaiyer, Literature and Education (Journalism), Tamil Nadu

40.

Shri Durga Charan Ranbir, Art, Odisha

41.

Prof. Arunoday Saha, Literature and Education, Tripura

42.

Smt. Libia Lobo Prataprao Sardesai, Social Work, Goa

43.

Dr. Madugula Nagaphani Sarma, Art, Andhra Pradesh

44.

Dr. Prativa Satpathy, Literature and Education, Odisha

45.

Shri Hariman Sharma, Agriculture, Himachal Pradesh

46.

Prof. (Dr.) Chandrakant Trikamlal Sheth (Posthumous), Literature and Education, Gujarat

47.

Smt. Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shilliekyatara, Art, Karnataka

48.

Shri Tushar Durgeshbhai Shukla, Literature and Education, Gujarat

49.

Shri Arijit Aditi Surinder Singh, Art, West Bengal

50.

Dr. Satyapal Singh, Sports, Uttar Pradesh

51.

Bhai Harjinder Singh Ji, Art, Punjab

52.

Shri Suresh Harilal Soni, Social Work, Gujarat

53.

Shri Radhakrishnan Devasenapathy Sthapathy, Art, Tamil Nadu

54.

Prof. David R. Syiemlieh, Literature and Education, Meghalaya

55.

Shri C. S. Vaidyanathan, Public Affairs, Delhi

56.

Dr. Surinder Kumar Vasal, Science and Engineering, Delhi

57.

Dr. Deshmane Vijayalaxmi, Medicine, Karnataka

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