Allahabad, the abode of God is picturesquely situated at the confluence of the  rivers Ganga,Yamuna and Saraswati.The famous Urdu poet, Mir Wazib described Allahabad as the city of eternal glory. According to legends, Allahabad had its origins during the vedic times, as the first holy city. Today, after more than than 100,00 years the religious ethos of the city, its conservative culture and its penchant to maintain its status quo has not changed much. Developments and advancements in other field have been remarkable and are easily perceptible.

 In recent  years, Allahabad has emerged on the national scene as the center for academic potential and excellence and this has changed the spirit of the city to a great extent and has also improved its status. Allahabad can still boost of having an University once considered Oxford of the East.  Although this institution is not what it used to be in its golden days, it is still a major center of learning. The university has produced luminaries in various fields, including the administrative services. Establishment of IIIT has made the city a forerunner in the field of information technology. A recent feather, already to its illustrious cap is the  Motilal Nehru National University of Technology. Two highly advanced scientific research institutions; the HRI and Geomagnetism Institute further mark the significance of the city in the field of science and technology.

 Present day Allahabad is not just known for education, it has also made contributions in other fields also. In sports, some eminent sports personalities are products of this city. The young cricketer  Md. Kaif , is a lad of the city. Another landmark is the establishment of world class gymnastic facilities in the city. The sports scenario in Allahabad has other important markers, the famous Madan Mohan Malviya Stadium ,the Mayo Hall Sports Complex and the establishment of a regional center of Sports Authority of India .

 Allahabad has provided stalwarts in different fields, including legal, medical and the most important politics.  Many important politicians belong to this great city. Its contributions to freedom struggle are well documented. Even today this tradition is continuing. Our present HRD minister Murli Manohar Joshi is an example of this tradition. While talking about luminaries one cannot forget the star of the Millennium, Amitabh Bachan. This list can go on and on but these few examples would suffice to illustrate the recent contributions of this great city.

 Like the two sides of a coin these positive developments have a somewhat darker side also. Over the years the city has been languishing because of several pressing problems. Our population has increased drastically about 40% from 1950. This factor is the root cause of our problems leading to increased pollution, collapse of the civic amenities like housing, drainage and incidences of crime. It is no longer a safe place, where people can move freely .One can only wish:

Why is  the city's progress  getting hindered
Such a beautiful rose getting withered
  We need surely to rectify it
  Taking utmost care not to intensify it.
- Vipul Singh 7B

Human Rights is a burning question in today's political scenario. Around the globe every nation has accepted certain basic natural principles of human rights. 
These human rights are enforced and enacted with the help of the United Nations Organisation, "Human Rights" are those rights which infact are very essential for the physical, mental, moral and spiritual development of a person. In 1215 A.D. first, the people of England put a charter of demands before King John, for fundamental rights, which he granted. In this way this can be said as the first written document in regard to fundamental rights. Thereafter America, France and other countries have also granted all those natural rights to their citizens. 
After the devastating era of wars and battles, leaders of more than 50 countries made a consensus on human rights. The United Nations Organisation in its infancy only and each and every member of the United Nations Organisation is bound to follow these rules and regulations. 
After attaining Independence India has also given in the 3rd chapter of her constitution such rights which are intact essential for the human beings. All these rights have been provided to the citizens against the government so that in real the existence of democracy can be saved. As the democracy is very relevant in the present perspective and it is established by the people. 
Human Rights are necessary for human beings. These human rights include: - 

•  All men are born free and have equal rights 
•  All persons are equal in the eyes of law. 
•  All persons have the liberty to do whatever they like provided they do not injure other people. 
•  All persons have the right to express their views. 
•  Law is the expression of the will of the people. 
•  No one shall be accused, arrested or penalised till the charges against him are proved. 
• All the citizens of the world will enjoy religious freedom. 

But sometimes it becomes a matter of controversy. In contemporary literature there is a good deal of discussion on these rights. The problem becomes more serious at the time when developed countries in the name of safeguarding human rights, torment the developing countries. Infact "Human Rights" is just an excuse for them. 
Tianemen, the gate of heavenly was defiled by the Community government of China in 1989 when thousands of protesting innocent students were butchered by army men. They succumbed to heavy injuries and many of them even died. There are numerous incidents cannot be mentioned within the time but the most recent atrocities committed on the people of West Timor in Indonesia draws every one's attention when even after general plebiscite they were not allowed to have their government and were massacred by the hard-core Indonesian Military men. Our next door neighbours Pakistan and Afghanistan, are notorious for the violation of human rights, respective territories. 
In real, still today there are some countries which are openly violating human rights. All the of the world unitedly should take stern action against those countries but this does not happen. This position becomes more pitiable when United Nation played the role of a mute spectator. 
Countries like America take action against Yugoslavia but when their friends violate Human Rights they are seen to help them. India is declared a country who violates human rights when she tries to defend her integrity, when terrorists kill innocent people then the world's police officer Amercia does not speak the word. But when our army men kill those terrorists it is said that, India is violating human rights. 
In this way we can say that the protection of human rights must be done with a pure heart & mind and in it participation of all countries is very essential. The United Nations must play the main role as it is a recognized organisation. If any country takes responsibilities for human rights in all the countries it is deplorable and in other words it is also the violation of human rights

By Roopesh Kumar Dwivedi

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It was a moment of great joy for students of St. Mary's Convent and St. Joseph's College to witness an impressive array of aspiring debators and orators in the St. Joseph's auditorium in a series of debate and elocution held for classes 9 and 11 on 24th of July and 14t of September respectively. Akshat Kumar accorded a warm and cordial welcome to the Chairman, the Judges and other distinguished guests and teachers from the Convent. Mr. Sharad Verma advocate, High Court and Mr. Aaninda Chatterjee chaired the debates for classes 9 and 11 respectively.
The topic of debate for class 9 was "THERE IS NO RELEVANCE OF VALUE EDUCATIOIN IN THE MODERN CORRUPT WORLD" while that for class 11 was "THE FEMALE OF ALL SPECIES IS DEADLIER THAN THE MALE" Young minds arguing for and against the well-posed topic was indeed an encouraging sight. 
Finally, it was our team which emerged victorious in both the debates with the prizes for the speakers for the best speaker against the motion coming under our banner. Amitanshu Gaur and Michael Anthony won the prizes for best speakers in the class 9 category. Sharad Malhotra and Vishal Makhija won the prizes for best speakers in the class 11 category. Alekh Chatterjeee won the second prize in the elocution competition for class 11. The debate for class 9 was judged by Mrs. Smita Agarwal, Wg. Commander Achchyut Kumar and Mr. Yashwant Verma. The judges for debate and elocution for class 11 were Mrs. Smita Agarwal. Fr. Sebastian and Mr. Mobd. Aslam. In the end, the Chairman, the Judges and the Principals spoke encouraging words for the participants. The competitions were conducted by the Literary Association of the college. 

Akshat Kumar 
XII-A

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"Service to mankind is service to God". This was the motto of the students of standard X-C as we went to the Shelter House for the poor on Strachey road as a part of our SUPW Project under the benevolent guidance of Mr. V.K. Paul our Class Teacher.

Our class was divided into six groups. Each group consisting of 10 boys. It was the duty of every group to share their feelings, provide support to the little kids and bring joy to their monotonous lives, even though, for a few days only.

All of us did whatever we could, we provided them with the moral support, letting them know that they were not alone in this world. We also assisted financially with our generous contribution. We were assured by the authorities concerned, that the money donated would be used for the education of these helpless girls. We also provided them with our old Text Books, registers and stationery. To make them happy we organised a variety of entertaining items like dancing, singing and playing games. We taught them about our country, its varied and rich culture, its unity in diversity. We even beautified their garden by planting trees and some beautiful rose plants. On our last day's visit all of us contributed wheat, sugar, rice, pulses, grain, toiletries and other articles for them. We made their lives happy and joyous for a few days but our souls have been touched by their lives and their hard ways of existence. We are really thankful to God for making us fortunate enough so that we are loved and cared for and for those helpless girls who have enlightened us with the bare and crude facts of life.

Rant Kamshik Ajitabh Raizada 

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4th Sept. '99 was a day of rejoicing at St. Joesph's College campus as chimes of greetings and laughter resounded in the air. The occasion was the celebration of Teachers' Day, a day dedicated to shower reverence in abundance on teachers for their  selfless and arduous dedication and commitment to their chosen noble vocation.

to the shores of knowledge and persevere to carve out a complete person in each student under the loving care.

The school Captain Kumar Toshik in his speech compared the role of a teacher to that of a potter moulding the tender souls of each student for a better tomorrow. The colourful event had a slot for a solemn occasion to pay floral tributes to an ideal teacher Mr. R.P. Srivastava whom the untimely cruel clutches of death had snatched away. Rich tributes were paid to Mother Teresa a teacher in her second death anniversary.

The star attraction was the large card signed by 700 students with their greetings and messages presented to the teachers by Ankit Mathur and Shubham on behalf of the students. The song 'Just like the clay' rendered by the junior section choir and the skit 'Unity in diversity' focussed on the consensus of the teacher as the cultural synthesis on an Indian society. The delightful skit and a well choreographed dance number presented by the students of class XII had the audience in raptures and ecstatic applause. The colorful event was rounded off with the interesting yearly feature the 'Teachers' Anthakshari' wherein the participating teams won, true to the spirit of the day. 
Thereafter the vote of thanks was proposed by Ankit Mathur and the Head Master Rev. Fr. Thomas on behalf of the students and the staff respectively.

The commemoration culminated with the sumptuous fellowship meal graced by the presence of the Chairman of the school management committee His Lordship Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes. Gifts were presented as souvenirs to the teachers by his Lordship who in his address praised the college staff of their relentless service and called upon each one to replenish and revitalize their spirit and enthusiasm and work in unison as a team towards the betterment of the Students and the institution at large.

Mrs. S. Sandhya

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The students of St. Joseph's college celebrated CHRISTMAS in a meaningful way by exchanging gifts among themselves to show their love and concern for their co-students on the 18th December 1999 at 3.15 p.m. in the college premises.

The whole atmosphere was vibrating with joy, happiness and serenity as the boys gathered with gifts in their hands. 

The celebration began with a reading from the Holy Bible and a short prayer. The devotional atmosphere was enhanced by Christmas carols and a skit based on Christmas. The most exciting item of the programme was the arrival of SANTA CLAUS dancing to the rhythm of Jingle Bells. The boys' joy knew no bounds at the sight of Santa Claus as he always comes loaded with gifts. The remarkable thing was that each student brought a gift and these gifts were exchanged. It was done to make the children realize that the greatest happiness consists in sharing what we have with others. It can be recalled here that in the morning the staff of the college had a similar function where they too ex-changed gifts and set an example to all.

The programme concluded with an inspiring Christmas message by the Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, the Bishop of Allahabad Diocese. 

Chacko P.J.

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Nostalgia engrips me first as I begin writing this article. I find it almost impossible to believe that it's been twelve years since I first stepped through the portals of this institution. I can still clearly remember my first day at school. I sat staring incredulously at my classmates who were crying because they wanted to be with their parents. Never did I miss my family or feel lonely at St. Joseph's College. After all, it was my home away from home.

I was probably one of the most shy boys of my class. While everyone else readily answered the teacher's questions, the very idea of doing so seemed unimaginable to me. I remember feeling jubliant on finding out that the teacher knew my name. My head swelled with pride when she praised my handwriting before the whole class. I felt as if I had conquered the world. Today, I smile to myself as I recall these moments. Each class was special in its own way. In class sixth, the entire "eyes-right' procedure was explained to us. I remember turning my head with extra vigourjust to make my House Captain happy.

Apart from a life- time supply of memories, St. Joseph's has given me so much more. I made many friends within its four walls. Friends I shared my joys and sorrows with; friends I could talk about anything with; friends who were always there when I needed them; friends who were more like brothers to me. And I realise with sorrow that I will Probably lose touch with some of these childhood compamions and never see them again. But we will always share a common bond we will always be Josephites.

Everyday in St. Joseph's College has been a new learning experience. I learnt to accept responsibility; to work with others for a common goal; to keep my word; to have faith in my abilities; to handle defeat with dignity; and so much more. I have also learnt that the quality of the life I will lead will be ultimately decided by these virtues alone.

So, as I end one phase of my life and step into a strange and unfamiliar world, I have within me a belief that some day, with the help of what I have learnt here, I will achieve all that I intend to and then perhaps be able to say that I lead my fife in the best way possible. And that would be my tribute to you-my inspiration, my guide, my Alma Mater, St. Joseph's College. 

Rahul Misra 
XII-a

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INTER INSTITUTIONAL DEBATE

"Value Education is irrelevant in this world of Corruption."
"Against the motion"

Values and morals are jewels of a person's. He The price of values is just inestimable. As it is rightly said about children "Catch them young." Value education should be imparted at least till school level. I put forth a question before you my friends. What is the use of a the person having immense wealth but no values? What is the use of a person having talents but no values? What is the use of a person being highly educated but having no values? My friends, it is the quality which commands most respect and esteem in the eyes of others.

My worthy opponents state that value education is irrelevant in this world of corruption, but I ask then how has this problem of corruption arisen in our country?Yes, my friends it is due to lack of morals. How can we e the mute spectators in these situations and let this problem flourish in our country? We should inculcate morals in ourselves and change the society towards the better. By opposing value education we would be proving the victory of evil over good. I am also of the opinion that we should ourselves impart value education within the poorer sections of the society.

The reputation of men of morals may be of slow growth, their true qualities may 'not be wholly concealed, they may be misrepresented by some and misinterpreted by others. Misfortune and adversity may for sometime overtake them, but with patience and endurance they will eventually command the respect which they deserve. Some may even fall short of their aim but we cannot fail to be improved by every honest effort made by us in the upward direction.

My worthy opponents may be under the impression that a man who goes after morals is wasting his time and his not abiding by the so-called rules of the corrupt world, but they fail to realize that the man of morals is richer than the richest, more skillful than the mostly talented and more literate than the education.

Every holy book, be it the Bible, the Gita, the Quran or the Guru Govind Sahib emphasise the part morals play in our lives. By imposing moral education we would be disapproving the criticizing the very word of God.

I would like to conclude by saying that if each one of us decides to inculcate morals in oneself this world would become a better place to live in. Value education as, is and forever will play a formidable role in developing our character and changing the face of the society.
Remember
"If wealth is lost nothing is lost
if health is lost something is lost
But if MORAL VALUES are lost
EVERYTHING is lost."

Michael Anthony
IX-A

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Instead of giving politicians the keys to the city, it might be better to change the locks. 
Middle age is when your broad mind and narrow waist begin to change places. 
The motorist who thinks all other drivers to be fools has a chance to live a long life. 
Pay attention to your enemies, for they are the first to discover your mistakes. 
A man should be educated enough to know that education alone is not enough. 
Doing easily what others find difficult is talent; doing what is impossible for talent is genius. 
A brother is born to help in time of need but a true friend is always loyal. 
Obstacles are things a person sees when he takes his eyes off his goal.
Nearly all men can stand adversity but if you want to test a man's character, give him power. 
Never bet on a sure thing unless you can afford to lose. 
You mustn't expect everything exactly to your taste. 
Men are quick to praise and quick to blame, so pay no attention to what others speak of you. 
Never look above you until you are secure on the ground you move. 
He who does not understand your silence will probably not understand your words. 
An evil man should be avoided, though learned. 
Is a snake less dreaded if adorned with jewels? 
It is a foolish idea to suppose that another can cause you happiness or misery. 
Don't get discouraged; it's often the last key in the bunch that opens the lock. 
People who drink to drown their sorrow should be told that sorrow knows how to swim. 
Words are one of our chief means of adjusting to all the situations of life. The better control we have over words the more successful our adjustments are likely to be. 
The world is divided into people who do things and people who get the credit. Try, if you can, to belong to the first group. There is less competition. 
Success without honour is like food without salt ... it will satisfy your hunger, but it won't taste good. 

Udayan Rai, 
Ill- A 

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