The Rocket: A Student Built Technological Achievement | A Living Classroom

NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044

Mar Baselios Christian College of Engineering and Technology in Peermade is preparing for a remarkable moment in the history of Indian education. On 18 December 2025 at ten thirty in the morning, the college will launch a student-built rocket from its own campus. This will be the first time that an engineering college in India has completely designed, assembled, and launched a rocket within its campus.

This single event carries deep meaning. It shows what students can achieve when they are given freedom, guidance, and opportunities to learn through real experiences. It also shows that world class engineering work can happen in educational institutions that value imagination and independent thinking.

This project is also part of the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the college, making the moment even more meaningful. As the college completes twenty five years of service, it celebrates a milestone that looks boldly toward the future. The rocket built by the students is a fully integrated system, meaning that it contains all the major parts that a professional launch vehicle would have. It has propulsion systems, structural elements, guidance and control systems, avionics circuits, a communication section, and even a small payload section.

Students from many branches worked together to create this system. They learned how each part connects with the others. They studied design, safety procedures, testing methods, and failure analysis. They also learned how to work as a team, how to divide tasks, how to solve problems under pressure, and how to think creatively.

Work Across Departments

The strength of this project comes from teamwork across the entire college. Students and faculty from several departments contributed:

• The Mechanical Engineering department guided the design of the propulsion chamber, structural body, and aerodynamic shape.
• The Electronics and Communication Engineering department designed the sensors, circuits, communication modules, and avionics boards.
• The Electrical and Electronics Engineering department worked on the power systems, control circuits, and wiring.
• The Computer Science and Engineering department developed the simulations, data handling programs, and control algorithms.
• The Civil Engineering department helped with launch pad considerations, structural materials, and safety measurements.
• The Sciences and Humanities department provided essential support in basic sciences, mathematics, and communication.

Each department made the rocket stronger in its own way. This is what makes it a true college level project that reflects the entire academic community. This is what making a college life meaningful. The project shows that learning does not happen only in classrooms. It happens in work spaces, discussions, late night brainstorming sessions, and testing grounds where ideas take shape. In many ways, this rocket is a lively classroom that transformed theories into actions and dreams into real engineering. Thanks to Dr. Oommen Tharakan’s sleepless nights guiding the dynamic students to dream and to drive for it.

Leadership That Made the Dream Possible at the Top Level

A project of this scale requires vision and consistent support. At the top, Director Dr Oommen Mammen provided direction and encouragement needed for such a daring initiative. His belief in practical engineering education has created an atmosphere where students are encouraged to experiment, explore, and attempt ambitious challenges. The Principal, Dr V I George, offered strong academic leadership.

He encouraged a learning culture where students are trained to solve real problems and understand the deeper meaning of engineering. Under his guidance, the idea of the rocket grew from a small student conversation into a campus wide project.

Expert Technical Mentorship

The project received expert guidance from Professor Oommen Tharakan K T, an experienced former scientist from the Indian Space Research Organisation. As the Head of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering and the Dean of Research and Development, he played a vital role in shaping the technical journey.

His experience with advanced systems helped the students understand complex concepts such as thrust calculations, structural load distribution, telemetry data, control loops, and safety procedures. His presence gave the students confidence that they were working under knowledgeable mentorship.

Support Across the Institution

Many other faculty members supported the work through guidance, practical training, lab facilities, and advice. Faculty leaders and coordinators such as Professor Elias Janson, Professor Anu Mary Mathew, Professor Tom J Kuriakose, Professor Manikandan S, Professor Shaibu V B, Professor Resmara S, Professor Annie Chacko, and several others stood with the students in this journey. The efforts of lab instructors, workshop engineers, technicians, administrative staff, and support staff were equally important. Every person played a role in strengthening the project, whether by providing equipment, helping with lab work, arranging materials, or ensuring safety.

India’s Space Heritage | A Tribute to a Glorious Beginning

This student-built rocket pays respect to the spirit of India’s space pioneers. In 1963, the first rocket was launched from Thumba under the leadership of Dr Vikram Sarabhai. That rocket was four point six meters tall and weighed around seven hundred fifteen kilograms. It was the spark that started India’s remarkable space journey.

Idukki: A Place of Beauty and Rising Ambition | A Jewel in the Green Hills

The rocket built by MBCCET students is a tribute to that early courage. It shows that even small beginnings can lead to major achievements. It also reminds us that the future of science lies in young minds that dare to innovate. We will see amazing additions in the history of Idukki in the days, weeks, months and years to come. Let us get into the acts instead of waiting those things to happen from elsewhere.

A Local Milestone with National Meaning

This is not only a victory for the college. It is a victory for educational innovation in India. It sends a message that colleges can become centers of technological progress, not just places for exams and lectures. It shows that when imagination is encouraged, young engineers are capable of building extraordinary things.

MBCCET stands in the peaceful highlands of Idukki, surrounded by misty mountains, green valleys, and spice plantations. If Idukki were imagined as a graceful woman in a green saree, then this rocket would be the shining jewel placed gently on that saree. It adds a new dimension to the identity of the region. Idukki has always been known for its natural beauty. Now it will also be known for scientific ambition, creativity, and youthful energy. The rocket launch shows innovation can grow anywhere, even in places far from the noise of cities.

The Day of the Launch | A Moment of Excitement and Pride

The entire college community is waiting eagerly for the moment when the countdown begins. Students, faculty, parents, guests, and local residents will gather to witness the rocket rise from the campus ground. The air will be filled with excitement, pride, and a sense of achievement. For the students who worked on the project, the launch will be an unforgettable moment. For the faculty who mentored them, it will be a fulfillment of years of dedication to teaching. For the college leadership, it will be a moment that reflects the institution’s true spirit.

A College That Encourages Innovation | A Supportive Environment | A Message to All Young Learners

The launch carries an important message for young students everywhere: with passion, persistence, and the right support, you can achieve things that once seemed impossible. You do not have to wait to join a large space agency to start creating. You can begin right where you are. MBCCET encourages creativity and experimentation.

The college has strong academic programs in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, and the Department of Science and Humanities. The college has councils, committees, and innovation groups that help students explore new ideas and work on meaningful projects.

Building a Culture of Research

The presence of a Research and Development cell, along with faculty with deep expertise, has created an environment where students can attempt ambitious tasks. This rocket project shows what can happen when a college builds a culture of inquiry and discovery.

A Tribute to Everyone Who Contributed

A project of this nature is never the work of a single person. It is a collective effort. The students deserve applause for their dedication. The faculty deserve praise for their guidance. The lab staff and workshop coordinators deserve respect for their technical support.

The administrative team deserves appreciation for making sure that materials, space, and safety arrangements were all in place. Everyone who contributed has added their strength to launch a dream into the sky. Most of the materials are procured from the district of Idukki, mostly, except the fuel that was from Kottayam, as we gather information from the Director himself. Soon the work for the second Rocket and many thereafter begins. Manu schools have come forward to collaborate and partner with MBC to inspire their students in innovation. 

Looking Toward the Future | A New Identity for MBCCET

After this launch, MBCCET will be known as a college that believes in action, exploration, and real engineering. This identity may lead to new research opportunities, new courses, new collaborations, and even new student start-ups. The college will continue to inspire students to think boldly, explore new ideas, and challenge the limits of what is possible.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The rocket may rise only for a short time, but the inspiration it creates will rise much higher and last much longer. Young people will look at the sky differently because of this moment. They will see possibility where once they saw only distance.

A Launch That Symbolizes Hope and Possibility

As the final second of the countdown approaches, MBCCET is all set to claim a new chapter in educational history. This rocket is more than metal, circuits, and fuel. It is a symbol of ambition, teamwork, and the courage to dream. Here is to MBCET, to its students, faculty, leaders, and the entire community. This is a moment of pride, a celebration of effort, and a promise for an inspiring future. Congratulations!

The Neighbour Geriatric Counseling & Yoga Centre focuses on addressing both physical and mental health concerns commonly faced by senior citizens.

NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044

Chethikkulam: In response to the increasing demand for age-appropriate healthcare and emotional support for senior citizens, the Neighbour Geriatric Counseling & Yoga Centre has commenced its services at Pariyaram, Eravu Chira, Thottakadu, near Sri Krishna Temple, Chethikkulam. The centre aims to promote holistic health among the elderly through yoga therapy, counseling, and lifestyle guidance rooted in traditional wellness practices.

The centre was formally inaugurated on 12 December 2025 in a dignified ceremony. Dr. C. R. Harilakshmeendra Kumar, Associate Professor, School of Gandhian Thought and Development Studies (SGTDS), and Honorary Director, Centre for Yoga and Naturopathy (CYN), Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, lighted the ceremonial lamp and officially inaugurated the Neighbour Geriatric Counseling & Yoga Centre, Thottakadu. He delivered the inaugural address, highlighting the academic and social relevance of establishing a Geriatric Counseling and Yoga Centre as an extension of the MSc Yoga and Geriatric Counseling programme.

Dr. Harilakshmeendra Kumar emphasized that such initiatives fulfill the expectations of the University in alignment with the educational ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and the quality benchmarks prescribed by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). He further underscored the role of the Centre in addressing contemporary lifestyle-related diseases and catering to diverse sections of society through structured programmes such as Kids’ Yoga, Yoga for Women, Yoga for Working Professionals, and Yoga Therapy for the geriatric population.

The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Shri Saji Thomas, Chairman, Neighbour Geriatric Counseling & Yoga Centre. In his presidential address, he emphasized the growing importance of yoga in maintaining physical and mental health in modern life and elaborated on the role of yoga in preventing and managing lifestyle-related diseases. Smt. Anita V. S., Vice-Chairman, delivered the welcome address.

The keynote address was delivered by Shri Chandran Master, Kannur, a renowned Yoga Therapist, who highlighted the significance of yoga in sustaining overall health. He discussed contemporary lifestyle diseases and elaborated on various aspects of Yoga Therapy in managing conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Shri M. J. Thomas, Secretary, Senior Citizen Forum, Vakathanam, and Shri Pradesh, President, Shri Krishna Swami Temple, Chethikkulam, offered felicitation addresses. They emphasized the importance of establishing the Neighbour Geriatric Counseling & Yoga Centre in addressing modern health challenges and improving the well-being of people in and around Thottakadu.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Smt. Jisha James, Joint Secretary, Neighbour Geriatric Counseling & Yoga Centre. Smt. Sandhya Devi, Joint Secretary; Shri Anurag Nair and Shri Sandeep Sabu, Committee Members; Shri Mahesh K. K., Third Semester MSc Yoga and Geriatric Counseling, CYN; along with several well-wishers and community members, were present at the function.

Shri. Madhusoodhanan, Treasurer of the Neighbour Geriatric Counseling and Yoga Centre and a well-known yoga teacher, delivered an enlightening lecture on the importance of yoga in modern society and conducted a free yoga class for the participants of the inauguration ceremony. Shri. Vijaya Kumar, Secretary of the Neighbour Geriatric Counseling and Yoga Centre, was also present during the inauguration ceremony.

Prior to the inauguration, a General Body Meeting of the Neighbour Geriatric Counseling & Yoga Centre was convened, during which office bearers were unanimously elected and the programme schedule for the inauguration ceremony was finalized. An Executive Committee Meeting was also held to plan future programmes of the Centre, during which responsibilities were entrusted to the Chairman and other office bearers to finalize forthcoming activities, registration procedures, and related administrative matters.

The Neighbour Geriatric Counseling & Yoga Centre focuses on addressing both physical and mental health concerns commonly faced by senior citizens, including joint pain, reduced mobility, stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, and lifestyle-related ailments. By integrating yoga therapy, breathing techniques, and counseling services, the Centre seeks to enhance quality of life while supporting reduced dependency on medication under appropriate medical supervision.

Yoga sessions are conducted by trained instructors experienced in managing age-related health conditions. Individualized guidance is provided based on participants’ physical abilities and health status, ensuring safety and effectiveness. Alongside physical wellness, the Centre places strong emphasis on emotional and psychological well-being, offering counseling support to address loneliness, stress, depression, and age-related emotional challenges.

Speaking on the initiative, the organizers stated that the Centre aims to create a supportive neighbourhood environment where senior citizens feel respected, cared for, and empowered to take an active role in managing their health. The involvement of family members in encouraging elderly participation in wellness programmes was also emphasized.

Residents interested in enrolling for yoga classes or availing counseling services may contact the Centre for registration and further details.

Yoga Class Booking Contacts:

• Vijaya Kumar: 94464 27733
• Saji Thomas: 91378 07691
• Madhusoodhanan: 94460 74861

The Neighbour Geriatric Counseling & Yoga Centre stands as a timely and commendable initiative, offering a compassionate and integrated approach to elderly care by blending traditional wisdom with contemporary health awareness, ensuring dignified and healthy aging.

The Unifying Tongue: How Catholic Schools Forged India’s English Legacy

English has undeniably served as a significant uniting factor in post-independence India, bridging the vast linguistic and cultural diversity of the subcontinent. With over twenty-two officially recognized languages and hundreds of dialects, a neutral lingua franca was essential for national administration, higher education, and pan-Indian communication. English fulfilled this role, becoming the language of the Supreme Court, a key medium in parliament, and the primary vehicle for interstate business, science, and technology. It allowed a Tamilian and a Punjabi to converse, a Keralite engineer to work in Gujarat, and federal policies to be uniformly understood across states, thus acting as a crucial adhesive in the fabric of the Indian union.

This deep-rooted presence of English in India is, in large part, a historic contribution of Catholic schools, particularly those established by missionary orders during the colonial era and beyond. Institutions such as those run by the Jesuits, Irish Christian Brothers, and various congregations of nuns pioneered English-medium education for Indians, often with a focus on excellence and inclusivity. They opened the doors of English education not only to the elite but also to marginalized communities and women, creating a vast network of schools and colleges that became synonymous with academic rigor and character formation. From St. Xavier’s and Loyola colleges to countless convent schools across the country, these institutions produced generations of Indians fluent in English, who went on to lead in every field. Therefore, while English serves as India’s unifying language, its widespread adoption and prestige are directly tied to the foundational work of the country’s Catholic educational system.