The policy was signed in Jakarta by seven ministers and is designed to guide the use of digital technology and AI across formal and informal educational institutions, from early childhood education to universities.

Officials said the measure aims to balance the potential benefits of digital innovation with safeguards to protect children and teenagers from risks associated with prolonged exposure to digital platforms.

Indonesia has one of the world’s largest online populations, with nearly 230 million internet users in 2025, according to a survey by the Association of Indonesian Internet Service Providers. Generation Alpha and Generation Z together account for nearly half of that figure.

Government officials said Indonesian children spend about 7.5 hours per day on screens, raising concerns about the social and cognitive effects of prolonged digital engagement.

Pratikno, Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, said the decree was introduced partly in response to growing concerns about mental health issues among young people.

“There are a lot of factors but the number of teenagers with mental health issues are high and continue to increase, and one of the suspected triggers that have been proven academically is the uncontrolled, unmitigated use of digital technology,” Pratikno said.

He added that excessive reliance on digital tools could weaken brain activity and reduce critical thinking, cognitive development and reflective abilities among students.

The policy also seeks to promote responsible digital use and strengthen digital literacy among young Indonesians.

Meutya Hafid, Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, said the initiative was intended to ensure that children are able to use technology in a way that reflects their level of readiness.

“Indonesia has a significant number of children using the internet. Therefore, we must ensure that they are not only a target market for the technology industry, but also able to utilize technology according to their readiness,” she said.

The decree was also signed by officials including Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto and Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti, reflecting a cross-government approach to regulating digital technology in the education sector.

First published in 1776, Smith’s landmark work laid the intellectual foundation for modern economic thought, examining how labour, markets and trade contribute to national prosperity. Two and a half centuries later, the principles outlined in the book remain central to policy discussions in major economies grappling with questions about tariffs, inequality and corporate power.Scholars widely regard Smith as a foundational thinker of modern capitalism, though interpretations of his legacy vary. While some view him as a champion of free markets and minimal government intervention, others emphasize his warnings about monopolies and economic concentration.

Smith’s analysis of markets centred on the idea that individuals pursuing their own economic interests could contribute to broader societal prosperity, a concept often associated with the “invisible hand.” His work also explored how specialization and the division of labour could increase productivity and economic growth.Those themes continue to resonate as governments debate trade barriers and industrial policy amid shifting global supply chains and geopolitical tensions. Discussions around tariffs, protectionism and the structure of global markets frequently echo arguments first articulated in Smith’s writings.Economists note that Smith was also critical of policies that concentrated economic power in the hands of a few firms. In The Wealth of Nations, he argued that monopolies and restrictive trade practices could distort markets and limit economic opportunity

The 250th anniversary has renewed academic debate over how Smith’s ideas should be interpreted in modern economic policy. Some economists highlight his support for open trade and competitive markets, while others point to passages in which he warned about the social consequences of inequality and unchecked corporate influence.Smith wrote during a period of profound economic transformation as Britain moved toward industrialization and global trade expansion. His observations about labour, productivity and wealth distribution helped shape early thinking on how economies function and grow.Today, policymakers in advanced and emerging economies alike continue to confront issues Smith addressed centuries ago, including how governments should regulate markets, manage trade relationships and ensure that economic growth translates into broader prosperity.

The global economic landscape has evolved dramatically since Smith’s era, with multinational corporations, complex supply chains and digital markets reshaping commerce. Yet analysts say the core questions explored in The Wealth of Nations remain central to economic policymaking.Debates about tariffs, taxation and competition policy often reflect the tension between protecting domestic industries and maintaining open global markets. Smith’s critique of protectionist trade barriers and monopolistic practices is frequently cited in discussions about how governments should balance those priorities.As governments reassess economic strategies in response to shifting geopolitical and technological forces, the work of Smith continues to serve as a reference point for understanding the dynamics of markets and the sources of national wealth.The enduring relevance of Smith’s ideas underscores the lasting impact of a book written in the 18th century but still invoked in economic debates shaping the 21st-century global economy.

Service does not just transform the life of the one who receives it.

There are some memories that slip away with time, and then there are others that grow deeper, richer, and more meaningful as the years pass. One such memory from my teenage years continues to shape the person I am today—a simple act of service that unexpectedly illuminated the purpose of my life.

As a student, I went through a phase in which I visited a blind school every single day. There was nothing extraordinary about it then; it was just something I felt drawn towards. I would spend my afternoons helping the elderly write letters to their families, reading the newspaper aloud to them, and recording English lessons for the children.

I read small stories, explained grammar concepts, and guided them through their exercises with patience. Their curiosity, their hunger to learn, and their unbroken spirit filled me with a sense of joy I did not yet fully understand.

To me, these moments were gentle acts of companionship. But to them, those hours of reading and teaching were doors opening toward a world they longed to reach. I would walk home each day without realising that, in those quiet classrooms, an invisible exchange was taking place—they were learning English, and I was learning life.

Years went by. School ended, life moved forward, responsibilities changed. That little blind school became a tender memory tucked away in a corner of my heart.

Then one afternoon, long after I had stopped expecting anything to come from those visits, the past found its way back to my doorstep. A young man stood outside, waiting politely. At first, I did not recognise him. With folded hands and a gentle humility in his voice, he introduced himself: “Madam, I am Vinod Tiwari. You used to teach me English at the blind school.”

What he said next took me completely by surprise. Vinod explained that the English language lessons I had recorded and read aloud all those years ago had helped him excel in his examinations. Those foundational skills gave him confidence to step into the world and compete for opportunities he once thought were out of reach. He secured a job as a telephone operator and worked his way up.

Today, he serves as a Manager at Pawan Hans. He travels in a chauffeur-driven car, is happily married, and is the proud father of two healthy children. And then, in a deeply emotional gesture, he bent down and touched my feet.

“I will always be grateful to you,” he said, his voice trembling.

In that moment, tears came to my eyes. I was overwhelmed not because he had come so far, but because I had never realised that the small, ordinary acts of my teenage years had created such an extraordinary ripple in his life. For the first time, I truly understood the depth of what it means to make a difference.

As I reflected later, I realised that service is never a one-way street. We often imagine that we are the givers and others are the receivers. But sometimes, unknowingly, they give us far more—purpose, direction, and a sense of fulfilment that no achievement or award can match.

Service does not just transform the life of the one who receives it. It transforms the heart of the one who gives it.

That day, as Vinod walked away with a smile, I felt a quiet completeness settle within me. A teenage girl who once read English stories in a small blind school had helped build a future she couldn’t have imagined. And in doing so, she had also discovered her own calling.

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not reflect Milli Chronicle’s point-of-view.

Perhaps it’s time to ask ourselves a difficult question: Are we truly being fair to our children?

Parenting today bears little resemblance to what it was even a decade ago. The fast-paced lifestyle, constant digital distractions, and changing family structures have transformed both the challenges and the opportunities that parents face.

In their effort to maintain harmony between professional and personal life, many parents end up yielding to every demand of their children—reasonable or otherwise. What begins as affection often turns into over-indulgence. Children, pampered beyond measure, gradually lose the ability to handle denial or constructive criticism. The result is fragile self-esteem and diminished emotional resilience—often leading to psychological struggles that become harder to correct later.

Dependence Over Discipline

A growing concern among educators and psychologists alike is the increasing reliance of children on parents and domestic help for even the simplest daily tasks. Tying shoelaces, packing school bags, or cleaning up after play are no longer viewed as essential life skills—they are outsourced responsibilities.

This dependency delays the development of crucial self-management abilities, which form the foundation of a child’s confidence and independence. The habit extends into school life, where many students look to teachers for tasks they should perform themselves.

Teachers, naturally intent on fostering independence, often encourage children to take small initiatives. Yet, some parents misinterpret these gestures as the child being “made to work.” Complaints follow, and a well-intentioned effort to teach responsibility becomes a point of friction.

It is time to rethink this attitude. Allowing children to take charge of age-appropriate responsibilities builds confidence, adaptability, and self-worth—qualities that no amount of comfort can substitute.

A Mirror to the Past

Perhaps it’s time to ask ourselves a difficult question: Are we truly being fair to our children?

Let’s pause and remember how earlier generations were raised—with discipline, respect, and independence. We learned to accept criticism gracefully, to value hard work, and to find joy in simple achievements. Those experiences made us resilient, grounded, and grateful.

Why, then, are we hesitant to gift our children those same formative strengths? Over-protection may feel like love, but it robs them of growth.

As a community, we must move away from the culture of spoon-feeding and instead nurture young minds that can think independently, act responsibly, and shoulder life’s challenges with quiet courage.

Schools, too, have a vital role beyond academics. Rather than merely competing for higher enrolment, they should focus on guiding parents—helping them raise well-balanced, self-assured children who are emotionally and socially equipped for the future.

The Screen Trap and the Rise of Acquired Autism

An alarming new dimension of modern childhood is the rapid rise in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Global data reveals a steep increase—from about 62 per 10,000 children in 2012 to nearly 100 per 10,000 in recent studies.

Even more concerning is the emergence of acquired autism, linked primarily to excessive and unsupervised screen exposure. In many homes, devices have quietly replaced companionship. Parents often resort to digital bribery—“Finish your homework and you can play on the phone.”

What seems harmless slowly erodes social interaction, communication, and critical-thinking skills. Playgrounds are empty; conversations replaced by screens. Childhood is being digitized, not lived.

Technology is an enabler—but only when used within the boundaries of supervision, moderation, and discipline. The goal is to make children tech-savvy, not tech-dependent.

Towards a Balanced Tomorrow

Parenting has never been easy—but today, it requires heightened awareness and collective reflection. The balance between love and discipline, between guidance and freedom, is delicate yet essential.

Let us, as parents, teachers, and a society, stand united in our resolve to raise children who are strong, self-reliant, and compassionate. Children who are not shielded from life—but prepared for it.

Because ultimately, the measure of good parenting is not how happy our children are in the moment, but how capable they are when the moment challenges them.

“Let us nurture with wisdom, love with limits, and guide with grace. Only then will our children rise—not merely to exist, but to excel.”

Law firms are already projecting a reduced need for entry-level lawyers due to the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the legal sector.

The Legal Grounds coffee shop at Elon University School of Law is busier than ever, fueled by the surge of record-high first-year law students this fall.

Elon, one of seven U.S. law schools reporting historic new classes, is part of a nationwide trend that includes prestigious institutions such as Harvard, where first-year enrollment has reached levels not seen in over a decade.

“It’s been a boon for the coffee shop,” said Elon Law Dean Zak Kramer. With nearly a 10% increase in first-year students across its two campuses, Elon is working to ensure classrooms have enough chairs, study spaces, and resources to accommodate the influx of students.

Preliminary data suggests that the corridors, classrooms, and libraries of law schools nationwide are more crowded than in previous years. This uptick comes on the heels of a blockbuster admissions cycle: the national applicant pool has grown by 18%, building on a strong 2024 that saw a 6% increase in applicants and nearly 40,000 first-year Juris Doctor students nationwide.

Though impressive, this number remains below the historic high of over 52,000 first-year students in 2010.

Other schools joining Elon’s growth include the University of Hawaii, Rutgers University, Pace University, Liberty University, Faulkner University, and the University of New Hampshire. Harvard Law School enrolled 579 first-year students this year, about 3% more than its usual class of 560, marking the largest intake since at least 2011.

Meanwhile, universities including Tennessee, Buffalo, Duquesne, Drake, Samford, Cleveland State, Maine, Southern Illinois, and Ave Maria also reported their largest first-year classes in over a decade.

However, the surge in law school enrollment raises questions about the future job market for graduates. Nikia Gray, Executive Director of the National Association for Law Placement, warns that larger first-year classes could contribute to an oversaturated legal job market by 2028.

Law firms are already projecting a reduced need for entry-level lawyers due to the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the legal sector.

“The unknown here is how quickly that change will happen across the whole market and whether the impact will be felt before or after these students graduate,” Gray said.

Despite these concerns, recent history offers reassurance: the class of 2024 enjoyed record-high employment, with 93% of graduates securing jobs within ten months of leaving campus. For now, law schools continue to enjoy robust enrollment, energized campuses, and yes—a thriving coffee business.

South Asian governments, especially Pakistan and India, must take bold steps to integrate refugee children into local schools.

For more than four decades, Afghan families have been on the move, fleeing war, political turmoil, and the endless cycle of violence that has plagued their homeland. They sought safety in neighboring countries—primarily Pakistan and India—hoping to rebuild their lives in dignity. Yet, behind every political statement, diplomatic meeting, and policy debate lies a quieter tragedy: the lost childhoods of Afghan refugee children.

In Pakistan alone, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that over 1.4 million registered Afghan refugees currently live in the country. A significant proportion of them are school-age children. But for most of these children, the idea of attending school remains a distant dream. Financial hardships prevent families from paying school fees, while legal barriers and documentation issues often exclude them from local education systems. Even when access exists, language barriers leave many children unable to cope.

This educational vacuum forces young Afghan boys and girls into paths no child should have to take. Some end up working in brick kilns, carpet factories, or roadside shops to support their families. Others are pushed into early marriages, robbing girls of their adolescence and their chance at independence. For many, informal jobs replace classrooms, and survival becomes their only curriculum.

Girls suffer the most under these circumstances. In refugee camps and marginalized urban settlements, Afghan girls are often kept away from school due to cultural stigma and fears about safety. Parents worry about harassment, the lack of secure learning environments, and the long walks to poorly resourced schools. The result is heartbreaking—an entire generation of Afghan girls remains invisible to the education system.

The consequences are not confined to the refugee families alone; they ripple outward into host countries and the region as a whole. Experts have repeatedly warned that an uneducated refugee population is not merely a humanitarian challenge but a long-term security risk. Deprived of knowledge and opportunity, children are left vulnerable to exploitation, poverty cycles, and even radicalization. Without education, they risk becoming what aid agencies term a “lost generation”—a demographic with little chance of contributing productively to the societies around them.

The truth is sobering: Afghan refugee children do not lack intelligence, curiosity, or resilience. What they lack is opportunity. And opportunity can only come if governments, international organizations, and civil society recognize education as a humanitarian priority rather than a luxury.

South Asian governments, especially Pakistan and India, must take bold steps to integrate refugee children into local schools. This requires political will, financial support, and, above all, compassion. Incentives can be introduced for local schools that admit refugee children, while community-based programs can help overcome resistance from parents worried about costs or cultural gaps. Non-governmental organizations and aid agencies can also play a vital role by offering bridge programs that teach local languages, easing the transition for Afghan students.

The international community, too, must rise above rhetoric. Too often, we hear expressions of sympathy for Afghan refugees, but support rarely translates into long-term solutions. Financial aid should be targeted toward education infrastructure in refugee-hosting countries, not just short-term relief. Technology can also be harnessed—digital learning programs, low-cost tablets, and community learning centers can ensure that no child is left behind, even in remote camps.

At its core, education is not just about textbooks and classrooms. For Afghan refugee children, it is about reclaiming dignity, finding security, and nurturing hope for a future that is not defined by displacement. A child holding a schoolbag instead of a brick or a sewing machine is not just a symbol of personal progress—it is a promise of stability for the entire region.

History will judge us not only by how we sheltered Afghan refugees but also by how we enabled their children to dream again. Ensuring education for these children is not charity—it is justice. And justice, in this case, begins with the simple but powerful right to learn.

When an Indian citizen greets the morning with a sher in Urdu and casts their vote with clarity in Hindi, that is not division—that is unity.

In the grand mosaic that is India, language is more than a tool of communication—it is a carrier of memory, identity, and belonging. Among the many tongues spoken across this vibrant land, two stand out for their profound cultural weight and political relevance: Urdu and Hindi.

They are more than “sister languages.” They are intertwined voices of the Indian soul—one capturing the lyrical nuance of our poetry, the other anchoring the voice of the common citizen in the political sphere. Speaking Urdu and voting in Hindi is not just poetic symbolism—it is a civic and cultural necessity.

Urdu Was Born in India, Not Pakistan

Despite popular misperception, Urdu was not born in Pakistan. It was born in the heartlands of India—in Delhi, Lucknow, and Hyderabad. These cities were not only cradles of Islamic scholarship and art but also the nurseries of this graceful language. Pakistan adopted Urdu as its national language despite having a population dominated by Punjabis, Sindhis, Balochs, and Pashtuns. In doing so, it imposed Urdu rather than let it evolve organically.

India, on the other hand, allowed Urdu to breathe. As Pakistan’s Mufti Tariq Masood once said in his lecture, “Urdu ki paidaish Lucknow hai” (Urdu’s birthplace is Lucknow).

The late Jagjit Singh, whose ghazals still echo in millions of Indian homes, once remarked, “Urdu is not just a language; it is the legacy of our shared culture.” This language doesn’t belong to a religion or a country—it belongs to civilization.

The legacy of Urdu extends beyond poetry and politics—it has been instrumental in preserving and transmitting Islamic scholarship on Indian soil. A powerful testament to this is the visit of Late. Shaykh Rabee bin Hadi Al-Madkhali, one of Saudi Arabia’s most prominent Islamic scholars, who spent time in Hyderabad—a city renowned for its Deccani Islamic heritage. During his stay, Shaykh Rabee engaged in deep study of classical Islamic texts, and notably, collaborated with an Urdu-speaking translator to access key Indian commentaries and manuscripts.

Hindi: The Democratic Lifeline of India

If Urdu is our soul’s poetry, Hindi is the pulse of our democracy. It is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and in India, it plays a vital role in shaping political consciousness. Hindi is the language of campaign slogans, election manifestos, and parliamentary debates. It is the medium through which the majority of Indians understand their rights and duties.

In electoral politics, voting in Hindi is empowerment. It ensures that ordinary citizens—farmers in Bihar, homemakers in Uttar Pradesh, factory workers in Madhya Pradesh—can engage meaningfully with democracy. When political content is available in Hindi, it levels the playing field, ensuring no one is excluded because of linguistic elitism.

Two Languages, One Nation

Speaking Urdu while voting in Hindi may seem paradoxical, but in reality, it is a celebration of India’s pluralism. Language does not divide us; it unites us when we respect each other’s mother tongues.

Rishi Suri, son of veteran journalist Navin Suri and editor of the Daily Milap—India’s oldest Urdu newspaper—continues to preserve this linguistic heritage. Bollywood too, from Majrooh Sultanpuri to Javed Akhtar, has kept Urdu alive through its lyrics, scripts, and songs. These languages are not rivals—they are reflections of each other, shaped by shared histories and cultural crossings.

Inclusivity Begins with Language

A society that values all its languages is one that values all its people. Promoting both Urdu and Hindi creates space for inclusivity, empathy, and participation. Educational institutions that teach both languages empower students to respect their country’s complexity rather than fear it.

Political leaders, too, must rise to the moment. In a time when polarizing rhetoric threatens to fragment the social fabric, championing linguistic diversity can be a powerful act of national healing. When a voter sees their language reflected in policy, media, and leadership, it strengthens trust in democratic institutions.

Media and Technology: Allies of Linguistic Justice

In today’s digital age, language is content, and content is power. Political messages in Urdu and Hindi, when disseminated through social media, WhatsApp groups, YouTube, and digital news platforms, can mobilize communities with precision and cultural resonance.

Platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube have become battlegrounds of narrative warfare. And yet, most political parties still overlook the potential of content creation in minority languages like Urdu. When done right, this can engage underserved communities, promote political education, and counter disinformation.

Digital media can also bridge generations. A young YouTuber explaining the budget in Hindi, or a poet reciting Ghalib in Urdu on Instagram, becomes part of a larger democratic dialogue—one that is multilingual and multidimensional.

Political Representation Begins with Respect

Minority languages like Urdu are often the first casualties in nationalist politics. But true nationalism celebrates every color in the national palette. Political parties must recognize that embracing Urdu does not alienate the majority—it builds bridges with a significant section of the citizenry who often feel sidelined.

Parties that use both Hindi and Urdu in outreach campaigns often find wider resonance and deeper loyalty. Voters feel seen. And when voters feel seen, they show up—not just at rallies, but at ballot boxes.

Let us not treat language as a battlefield. Let us treat it as common ground.

When an Indian citizen greets the morning with a sher in Urdu and casts their vote with clarity in Hindi, that is not division—that is unity. That is what it means to be Indian.

As we move forward into an increasingly digital and political world, the call to action is clear: Speak Urdu with pride. Vote in Hindi with power. Respect both. Fear neither.

In doing so, we preserve the best of who we are—and build a nation that honors all its voices.

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not reflect Milli Chronicle’s point-of-view.

Indian Muslims are not just part of India’s future. They are helping to create it.

A popular narrative aggressively pushed in the international media is that Indian Muslims are oppressed, unsafe, and voiceless. Unfortunately, many—both within and outside India—still buy into this rusted propaganda. It paints a bleak picture of victimhood and exclusion, often ignoring the lived realities and actual progress of Muslims across the country.

But beyond this outdated and politically motivated narrative lies a far brighter, bolder, and more grounded truth: Indian Muslims are not just surviving—they are thriving. From civic activism in Delhi’s Seelampur to entrepreneurship in Bengaluru, from World Cup victories to legal advocacy, Muslims across India are shaping their identity through education, democratic participation, innovation, and resilience.

Community Participation: Grassroots Power and Local Leadership

From narrow lanes to open fields, from rural bastis to urban settlements, Muslim communities are quietly but powerfully transforming their surroundings. In places like Seelampur in Delhi, Kishanganj in Bihar, and parts of Hyderabad and Bengaluru, locals are coming together to run evening schools, healthcare camps, and vocational training centers.

What makes this effort remarkable is its community-led nature. Whether it’s women teaching literacy in local madrasas, youth groups spreading digital awareness, or NGOs providing scholarships, Muslims are choosing action over apathy, proving that true change begins from within. These initiatives show how local efforts can create national impact, and how compassion, unity, and service define real leadership.

Across India, Muslims are participating in democracy with greater conviction and clarity. From voting in record numbers to contesting panchayat, municipal, and state elections, the community is increasingly aware that political engagement is empowerment.

Parties like the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) in Kerala and All India United Democratic Front [AIUDF]  in Assam have long reflected strong regional aspirations. Meanwhile, new political energies are rising, with youth-led forums, independent candidates, and Pasmanda coalitions pushing for inclusive representation.

Rather than being boxed into stereotypes or reduced to a “vote bank,” Muslims today are asserting their place in politics as equal stakeholders in the Indian democratic project.

Socio-Economic Growth: A Quiet Revolution

Despite socio-economic challenges, Indian Muslims are turning adversity into opportunity. Across the country, young Muslims are breaking generational barriers, entering fields like technology, law, medicine, digital media, and entrepreneurship. Startups run by Muslims in Bengaluru and Hyderabad are making headlines, while artisans from Kashmir to Tamil Nadu are reviving traditional crafts with global flair.

Pasmanda Muslims in particular are embracing change with boldness – sending their children to school, seeking skill-based jobs, and tapping into government and private opportunities. The growth of community microfinance, women-run cooperatives, and online learning platforms is enabling them to step into a new era of progress with confidence.

This quiet revolution is powered by faith, family, education, and a determination to create a better tomorrow.

From bustling marketplaces to tech startups, Muslim entrepreneurs are innovating, building, and thriving. Their businesses, be it in food, textiles, fashion, or digital spaces blend traditional skills with modern innovation, creating employment and preserving cultural legacies.

More Muslim women and youth are entering business with confidence, supported by community-led initiatives and digital platforms. Their success stories are inspiring and show that talent and hard work know no barriers. Muslim entrepreneurs are not just economic contributors, they’re culture-keepers, job creators, and visionaries building a better tomorrow.

Civic Participation: Youth, Women, and New Voices Rising

Indian Muslims are no longer waiting to be included-they are making space for themselves. From campus activism to legal advocacy, from media awareness campaigns to environmental initiatives, Muslim youth are at the forefront of civic change. Students from institutions like Jamia Millia Islamia and  Aligarh Muslim university, are building coalitions across communities to protect constitutional values and ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

Indian Muslim women are leading too — organizing health awareness drives, running schools, and becoming lawyers, entrepreneurs, and elected representatives. Their courage is reshaping the narrative and inspiring future generations to aim higher.

In stadiums across the nation, Indian Muslims are not only participating in sports, they are excelling, inspiring, and breaking barriers. Their achievements are rewriting narratives and reaffirming that talent knows no religion, only determination and dreams.

Take the example of Mohammed Shami, whose breathtaking performance in the 2023 Cricket World Cup was not just about wickets — it became a symbol of national pride. From humble beginnings in Uttar Pradesh to becoming India’s strike bowler, Shami’s journey inspired millions, transcending religious divides and uniting cricket fans across communities.

Alongside him, Mohammed Siraj has emerged as a fast-bowling force, celebrated not just for his talent, but for his emotional journey, including his tribute to his late father during India’s historic win in Australia.

In tennis, Sania Mirza stands as an icon of women’s empowerment and sporting excellence. As a Muslim woman who dominated global tennis rankings while proudly embracing her identity, Sania has become a role model for girls across India — especially from minority communities — proving that boundaries are meant to be broken.

Young Muslim athletes are also rising in sports like football, wrestling, boxing, and athletics. Across Kashmir, Kerala, Hyderabad, and West Bengal, local tournaments often spotlight Muslim talents, many of whom come from modest backgrounds and dream of representing India on the world stage. Academies and training camps run in community centers and minority-dominated areas are nurturing these dreams, showing how access and encouragement can change lives.

Importantly, young Muslim women are claiming their space in the sporting world too. Initiatives like Girls Kick Football Academy , and rising stars in boxing like Tabassum Pasha, are leading a quiet revolution – challenging stereotypes, inspiring the next generation, and reminding the nation that the future of Indian sports lies in its diversity.

In every sprint, serve, and six, these athletes reflect a spirit of resilience and unity. Their stories remind us that sports, at its best, mirrors the country we aspire to be — inclusive, aspirational, and full of heart.

Representation: From Silence to Strength

For too long, the question of Muslim representation in India was limited to numbers. But today, it is about voice, visibility, and value. Whether in law courts, newsrooms, legislatures, or classrooms, Muslims are demanding and gaining spaces that reflect their realities and ambitions.

What’s heartening is that the new wave of leadership is not confined to religion or identity alone. It is intersectional, inclusive, and idea-driven. From Pasmanda activists to Hindu-Muslim coalitions, from Muslim women’s rights defenders to secular regional parties: the message is clear: Muslims are no longer on the margins. They are shaping the center.

India’s Muslim community, with its rich cultural legacy and youthful energy, is moving forward with purpose and pride. They are not just surviving, they are building, learning, leading, and contributing to the national vision of progress and pluralism.

As this vibrant community continues to dream, organize, and uplift one another, one truth becomes more visible than ever: Indian Muslims are not just part of India’s future. They are helping to create it.

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not reflect Milli Chronicle’s point-of-view.

The promise of a better life comes with a heavy price—both financially and emotionally.

For thousands of Indian students, Canada has long been seen as a land of opportunity—a place where they can receive a world-class education, secure a stable future, and build a better life. However, a recent viral Reddit post has shattered this illusion, offering a raw and unfiltered look into the struggles many international students face in Canada. From financial exploitation to crushing loneliness, the challenges are far greater than most anticipate.

The Dream vs. The Reality

Many Indian students invest their family’s life savings or take hefty loans to pursue higher education in Canada, believing it will be a stepping stone to success. Unfortunately, the reality is often far from the glossy brochures and promotional videos. Instead of high-quality education and promising job prospects, they find themselves burdened with outdated curriculums, exorbitant tuition fees, and institutions that seem more interested in profits than in providing meaningful education.

Financial Struggles and Exploitation

The financial strain on international students is immense. With tuition fees often three to four times higher than those for domestic students, many struggle to make ends meet. The high cost of living—especially rent, groceries, and transportation—adds to the burden. Many students are forced to take on survival jobs, such as working in warehouses, restaurants, or as Uber drivers, just to afford basic necessities.

To make matters worse, the lack of “Canadian experience” means that finding a job related to their field of study is nearly impossible. Many employers hesitate to hire international students, leaving them stuck in low-paying, physically demanding jobs. Some students even face exploitation, working for less than the legal minimum wage under the table, with no job security or benefits.

Mental Health and Social Isolation

Beyond financial struggles, the emotional toll of studying abroad is overwhelming. Leaving behind family, friends, and the cultural familiarity of home can lead to extreme loneliness and mental health issues. Many students miss out on festivals, social gatherings, and the support systems they once relied on. The pressure to succeed, coupled with long hours of work and study, often leads to anxiety, depression, and burnout.

The lack of a strong social network further exacerbates these problems. Unlike domestic students, international students do not have childhood friends or extended family members to rely on. Making new connections can be challenging, especially when time is consumed by work and studies.

A Wake-Up Call for Aspiring Students

The viral Reddit post serves as a stark warning to those considering studying abroad. While Canada does offer opportunities, the path is far more difficult than many realize. The promise of a better life comes with a heavy price—both financially and emotionally.

This raises an important question: Is studying abroad truly worth it? With India’s growing economy and increasing job opportunities, staying rooted and working smart may be a better alternative. Rather than chasing an uncertain future in a foreign land, students must carefully weigh their options and make informed decisions.

Think Before You Leap

For those considering studying abroad, thorough research is essential. Speak with current and former students, understand the real cost of living, and evaluate whether the investment will truly pay off. Education is an important step towards a successful future, but it should not come at the cost of financial ruin and emotional distress.

Canada may still be a viable option for some, but for many, the dream sold to them is far from reality. Stay informed, stay grounded, and make choices that will lead to a fulfilling and sustainable future—whether at home or abroad.

Don’t worry about the cost—the NHS will cover the expenses for children under 16 and those under 19 in full-time education.

As a parent, it’s a given that you’d go to great lengths to give your kids resources that will help their future, especially as they enter school. You’ll choose their school carefully, selecting one that can nurture your child’s capabilities and bring out exemplary performance and behaviour.

You’ll see to it that the teachers treat them responsibly and with kindness. You may even prep them for their first few lessons to make sure that they excel in their class.

However, none of these arrangements will be helpful if your child can’t see correctly. According to Mini First Aid, around 20% of school-aged children have an undiagnosed vision problem. If you notice your child often rubbing their eyes, having frequent headaches, and sitting too close to screens or books, it may be time to find them the right prescription glasses. Here’s how.

Be guided by your child’s visual needs

Your awareness of the need for prescription glasses was probably first sparked by your child exhibiting symptoms or even outright telling you they can’t see well. Your first step, then, is to head to the clinic for an eye exam.

Don’t worry about the cost—the NHS will cover the expenses for children under 16 and those under 19 in full-time education. Your optometrist will be able to tell you your child’s prescription as well as any other eye conditions they might have, like astigmatism or amblyopia.

They can also explain how this may affect learning. Knowing all these factors can then aid you in making educated decisions moving forward.

Ensure durability

Now that you know your child’s vision needs, you need to find the right glasses that are not just functional but also durable. The truth is that children can be careless, no matter how well-behaved they are. After all, kids in school partake in sports, playtime, and other activities that may damage their specs. You’ll, therefore, want their prescription glasses to be extra durable.

To do that, examine the material of their eyeglass frames. You’ll want to look at frames that are light but capable of dealing with daily wear and tear. Some you might want to consider are titanium, which is sturdy, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant, or flexon, a flexible alloy that can return to its original shape even after being twisted and bent.

You can also think about purchasing extra shielding for your child’s lenses, like a scratch-resistant coating or a hydrophobic coating, to maintain the lenses’ integrity better.

Optimise for comfort and fit

Given that your child will wear their glasses all throughout the school day, you’ll want to give them specs that are comfortable. The best way to do so is to get them to test the specs out.

You can do this in a physical store—but if you want to take advantage of the cost-saving benefits and wider selection buying prescription glasses online, you can also leverage features that allow you to try on glasses at home. With these, your child can try on up to four frames to determine the weight and size that they need within a week-long trial window.

During this time, you can both look at factors like whether the nose pads fit comfortably and if the arms are just the right length. Being able to take your time figuring out if a pair of glasses fits right is hugely beneficial as this lets your child experience how it will be to wear them long-term.

Honour your child’s style

Finally, don’t forget to consult your child on the design of their specs. Today, glasses are no longer just for vision correction but also for self-expression. This has added weight during the first critical weeks of the school year, when children want to feel secure in their appearance to make a good expression.

It’s best not to determine their looks completely for them. Like as not, your tastes won’t match theirs—according to research cited by the online magazine The Lady, 4 in 10 children believe their parents don’t have fashion sense. In order for your kids to feel encouraged to wear their specs regularly, it’s important they see their glasses as beautiful accessories rather than cumbersome tools.

To ease the discomfort, allow them to choose the shape and colour of their frames. Let them be happy with their overall aesthetic before making the final purchase, so they can greet their new classmates and teachers with the confidence of someone who knows they’re well-styled.

Choosing the right prescription glasses is essential to caring for your child’s eye health and helping them succeed. Use the above tips to pick the best ones for your kid.