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By:

Quaid Najmi

4 January 2025 at 8:56:24 pm

Mumbai threatened by ‘toxic’ firecrackers

Lab tests reveal fireworks contain high levels of hazardous chemicals AI generated image Mumbai: Firecrackers sold as ‘green’ may be anything but environment-friendly, with laboratory tests commissioned by the Awaaz Foundation reportedly detecting hazardous chemicals, including high quantities of barium, in several popular brands sold in Mumbai. In a warning ahead of the festive season, anti-noise pollution activist and Awaaz Foundation Founder Sumaira Abdulali has urged Chief Minister...

Mumbai threatened by ‘toxic’ firecrackers

Lab tests reveal fireworks contain high levels of hazardous chemicals AI generated image Mumbai: Firecrackers sold as ‘green’ may be anything but environment-friendly, with laboratory tests commissioned by the Awaaz Foundation reportedly detecting hazardous chemicals, including high quantities of barium, in several popular brands sold in Mumbai. In a warning ahead of the festive season, anti-noise pollution activist and Awaaz Foundation Founder Sumaira Abdulali has urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to crack down on such fireworks, demanding strict enforcement of restrictions at every stage, from manufacture and distribution to sale and use. Following complaints, the foundation procured 17 firecrackers from the main markets in south Mumbai and Kurla and sent them for laboratory testing. “Several of these were found to contain toxic chemicals, including high quantities of barium. Eleven had no noise levels specified, while four did not mention the chemical composition of their contents,” Abdulali contended. The Awaaz Foundation also raised questions about claims of environmental compliance by the manufacturers. Although all the crackers were labelled ‘Green Crackers’, five brands had no QR codes, while nine of those carrying QR codes were found to have fake codes when tested, she alleged. Abdulali has called for the authorities to ensure that products falsely marketed as ‘green’ or containing hazardous/banned chemicals are not allowed to enter the market. She pointed out that the Mumbai Police and the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) license firecracker distribution outlets, making enforcement and checks on products being sold particularly important in view of the larger public interest. The report comes as Mumbai enters a packed festive period - Devi Visarjan, Durga Puja, Dussehra, Diwali and Guru Nanak Jayanti will be followed by Christmas and New Year celebrations, when firecrackers are commonly burst in public spaces. Abdulali noted that a recent Mumbai Police order prohibits the use of firecrackers in public places in the city until December 4, 2026, covering much of the festive season. She urged the authorities to ensure that the restrictions are implemented effectively. The potential health risks are particularly concerning as winter approaches, when weather conditions allow pollutants to linger in the air for longer periods. Abdulali said Mumbai’s Air Quality Index had deteriorated from the ‘Good’ category in the previous month to ‘Moderate’, with an AQI of 101 and PM2.5 recorded at Kherwadi on October 14, according to the figures cited by her. Referring to emails sent by the foundation on September 26 and 28 about loudspeakers, firecrackers and laser lights during the recently concluded Ganeshotsav, Abdulali appealed afresh for restrictions on laser lights and loudspeakers during upcoming festivals, including Navratri and the Mahim Dargah fair. With multiple festivals approaching, she called upon the state government to prioritise public health and ensure that misleading eco-friendly labels do not allow potentially hazardous firecrackers to reach consumers. Firecrackers: Not Fun At All The samples tested by Awaaz Foundation included popular varieties like: Flower Pot, TimTim Flower Pot, Deluxe Flower Pot, Colour Koti, Rainbow Fog, Ground Chakkar Deluxe, Power Point, King Winner Deluxe, Scarlet Saucer, Apple, Leo and Serpent Egg Big, among others. The manufacturers named comprise: Sri Padmavati Pyrotech, Sri Laxmi Fireworks, Vinayaga Sonny, Vanitha Fireworks Industries, Standard Fireworks, Rajkamal Sparklers, Sriram Fireworks, Anandha Krishna Fireworks, Vasantha Fireworks, Jai Durga Sparkles and Sri Pathrakali Paper Caps.

Why Women Are Better Investors Than Men

Mar 9, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Mar 10, 2025


Women Are Better Investors

As the world celebrated International Women's Day, discussions centered around women's achievements in various fields—business, leadership, science, and beyond. But one area where women consistently outperform men, yet receive little recognition, is investing.


Despite money management often being seen as a male-dominated field, women have quietly and consistently proven to be better investors than men. With patience, discipline, and a long-term mindset, women naturally possess qualities that make them superior money managers.


A Perfect Blend of Knowledge and Wealth

In Hindu mythology, Goddess Saraswati symbolizes knowledge, while Goddess Lakshmi represents wealth—two essential pillars of investing. The ability to manage wealth wisely stems from a deep understanding of financial principles, and this is where women excel. They take the time to learn, analyze, and make informed investment decisions rather than rushing into trends or speculation.


Why Women Make Better Investors

Several traits make women stand out as investors:


Patience and Long-Term Vision: Unlike men, who may be more prone to impulsive trading and get-rich-quick schemes, women tend to have a longer term mindset. Their ability to stay calm, especially during market fluctuations, leads to better returns over time.


Disciplined and Goal-Based: Women prioritize consistent savings and goal-based investing. This disciplined approach helps them build wealth steadily. Women naturally excel at budgeting, planning, and structuring investments to align with future goals, whether it’s children’s education, home buying, or retirement security. Their emotional connection with goals is what makes them stick to discipline.


Risk-Aware, Not Risk-Averse: Contrary to the stereotype, women are not afraid of risks—they are just more calculated about them, through appropriate asset allocation. Eventually, this approach ensures maximum returns with minimal risks. 


Trust and Willingness to Learn: Women value education and expertise, making them more likely to seek guidance from a well-qualified financial advisor. Unlike men, who often overestimate their investing abilities, women approach financial decisions with a willingness to learn. Once they find a trusted expert, they follow sound advice instead of making emotional, short-term moves.


Women Leading the Financial World

These qualities are why many of the world’s leading financial institutions are now led by women. In India and abroad, we see prominent banks, asset management companies, and investment firms thriving under female leadership. Their ability to combine strategic thinking with emotional intelligence makes them exceptional at managing money—both at a personal and professional level.


Final Thoughts

With their trust in expert advice and a strong focus on financial education, more women should embrace their strengths and take control of their financial futures!

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