Follow these steps and India will be more energy efficient

Abhas Mukherjee is the Editor at TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute). He handles all of TERI’s flagship magazines. In an informal interview, the Apeejay School, Noida, alumnus recalls some of his favourite memories from school days, shares his story behind choosing an editorial career and gives ideas to make India more energy efficient. Edited excerpts:

So, what all encompasses the editor’s responsibilities?

My work involves editing TERI’s flagship magazines such as TerraGreen and Energy Future. Also, other editorial work such as editing of reports, papers, brochures, etc. take up a lot of my time. In short, it’s mostly a busy day at the office. 

How did you join this field?

I was inspired by my father to take up the field of writing, journalism and editing. He is himself a science communicator and has been writing on science, environment, energy conservation for the past 45 years. As I was also interested in both English and Hindi since my school days at Apeejay Noida, I thought a career in writing and editing would fit the bill for me. 

When you look back, what are some of the best memories from your school days?

There are  plenty of memories from school life that I shall cherish for the rest of my life. For instance, every time I got a Scholar Badge award in the school assembly for excelling in academics, I felt very satisfied. Another distinct memory was watching Jurassic Park in 1993 with my classmates as Apeejay Noida took us out for an excursion. Of course, there were many other educational tours conducted by my alma mater. Then, taking part in the Annual Day and Sports Day preparations was very special. During the Sports Day, I felt very proud participating in march past drills while representing Nehru House in the iconic light blue jersey!! I often wonder if the colours of the jerseys of various houses are the same even now?

What life lessons would you give to the current batch of students?

I would say, my dear current batch of friends at Apeejay Noida, I realise now that you are the future of India. So try and maintain a perfect balance between online and offline life. I mean do not remain with your mobiles, laptops and gadgets all the time. Go out, play with your friends in the playgrounds, inculcate the habit of reading books, join each other in healthy discussions/debates. 

Last but not the least, inculcate the habit of writing a diary about your blessings, your dreams and aspirations. Try to write something each day for a few minutes (or as long as you like). Meditating and chanting mantras (such as Gayatri Mantra or any sacred hymn from the religion you follow) also helps to develop your spiritual side and keeps you grounded. Always remember all of us matter in the larger scheme of things in this universe.