UP Government to launch 3,000 Balvatikas on Independence Day

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August 14, 2025

On August 15, the Uttar Pradesh government will inaugurate 3,000 new ‘balvatikas’, nursery and kindergarten-level schools, in line with the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) mandate of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

These institutions, previously operating as co-located Anganwadi centres, have now been upgraded to create a more engaging and development-oriented learning environment for children aged 3 to 6 years.

According to officials, the initiative is aimed at laying a strong foundation for education while fostering creativity, self-confidence, and responsible citizenship in future generations.

Director General of School Education, Kanchan Verma, stated that each balvatika has been equipped with activity-based ‘wonder box’ kits, interactive learning corners, outdoor play resources, child-friendly furniture, and necessary stationery. ECCE teachers, Shikshamitras, and Anganwadi workers have undergone special training to prepare children for school readiness, along with ensuring proper nutrition.

Also Read: Tamil Nadu Universities to go fully digital with DigiLocker integration

Basic Education Minister Sandeep Singh emphasised that elementary education is a top priority for the state. “Through balvatikas, we are focusing on holistic development and nutrition, empowering children to become confident and responsible citizens of the future,” he said.

Tamil Nadu Universities to go fully digital with DigiLocker integration

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Kaanchi Chawla

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August 14, 2025

All universities in Tamil Nadu are set to integrate the National Academic Depository (NAD) DigiLocker system, enabling secure digital storage and management of students’ certificates. This initiative is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP), which advocates the use of DigiLocker and the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) to simplify academic record management and facilitate smooth credit transfers between institutions.

The Tamil Nadu State Council for Higher Education (TNSCHE), under the Higher Education Department, has issued an advisory to implement the initiative across all state universities.

The Academic Bank of Credits acts as a lifelong repository of credits earned by students, enabling mobility between institutions. The National Academic Depository, developed by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), functions as a 24/7 secure online platform to store degrees, mark sheets, and provisional certificates.

A senior Higher Education Department official said this digital shift will give students instant access to verified academic documents anytime, without visiting university offices. The system is also expected to reduce certificate forgery and allow quick credential sharing significantly.

Also Read: CBSE gives green light to open-book exams for Class 9 from 2026-27

Education experts say the service’s QR code verification will benefit students seeking higher studies or applying for government welfare schemes. Employers too stand to gain—private companies can integrate with DigiLocker to verify academic credentials in days instead of weeks.

With TNSCHE’s support, Tamil Nadu is poised to become a leading state in secure, paperless education documentation, keeping pace with national reforms in academic data management.

CBSE gives green light to open-book exams for Class 9 from 2026-27

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Kaanchi Chawla

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August 12, 2025

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has confirmed that Class 9 students will take Open-Book Assessments (OBAs) starting with the 2026-27 academic year. The decision, finalised on June 25 by the board’s Governing Body, is part of a broader push under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023 to make learning more skill-focused and less reliant on memorisation.

Unlike traditional closed-book tests, OBAs will allow students to use approved textbooks and reference materials during the exam. The approach will be integrated into all three term-wise written assessments for core subjects — Languages, Mathematics, Science, and Social Science. The aim is to encourage deeper understanding, analytical reasoning, and the ability to connect classroom learning to real-life situations.

The policy follows a series of trials in select schools. For Classes 9 and 10, the tests were conducted in English, Mathematics, and Science, while senior students in Classes 11 and 12 attempted them in English, Mathematics, and Biology. Results showed a wide score range, from 12% to 47%, highlighting challenges such as effective use of resources and interpreting multi-disciplinary questions. Despite these hurdles, educators believe OBAs can strengthen higher-order thinking skills and reduce exam-related anxiety.

Also Read: UP Cabinet clears three new private Universities

To ensure a smooth rollout, CBSE will issue a clear framework, sample question papers, and implementation guidelines. Initially, schools will have the flexibility to decide whether or not to adopt the system during the first phase.

This isn’t CBSE’s first foray into open-resource assessments. A decade ago, the board experimented with the Open Text-Based Assessment (OTBA) for Classes 9 and 11, but it was discontinued after mixed feedback. The new plan, however, comes with more robust preparation and teacher support to make it a long-term success.

UP Cabinet clears three new private Universities

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Kaanchi Chawla

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August 11, 2025

In a major boost to higher education, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved the establishment of three private universities and unveiled an international scholarship programme aimed at enabling underprivileged yet talented students to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom. State Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay announced these developments on Thursday evening.

Three New Private Universities in Uttar Pradesh

Vedanta University, Muzaffarnagar
The government has issued a Letter of Intent for setting up Vedanta University on 23.33 acres in Muzaffarnagar, exceeding the minimum 20-acre requirement for urban areas. Managed by the Lala Fatehchand Charitable Trust, the project has been cleared by the Higher Education Department and the State-Level Expert Committee. All operational formalities must be completed within two years.
Bodhisattva University, Barabanki
Bodhisattva University has received final operational clearance after fulfilling all provisions under the Uttar Pradesh Private Universities (Third Amendment) Act. With sufficient land and all regulatory approvals in place, the institution is now ready to commence academic sessions.
KD University, Mathura
Currently operating a dental college, KD University in Mathura has been upgraded to a full-fledged university. With over 50 acres of land—well above the urban requirement—the institution has secured approvals from all relevant committees to begin its expanded academic operations.

Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Shivalinga UP State Scholarship Scheme

The Cabinet has also approved an international scholarship initiative in partnership with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the British Council’s Shivalinga programme. This scheme, named in honour of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, will provide full funding for one-year master’s degree programmes in leading UK universities, such as:

University of Oxford
London School of Economics (LSE)
Imperial College London
King’s College London

Also Read: GHMC launches smart digital services to boost transparency

Key Highlights:

Covers tuition, examination, and research fees
Includes living expenses and round-trip economy airfare
Joint selection by UP Government & FCDO representatives
Five scholarships awarded annually
Initially valid for 2025–26, 2026–27, 2027–28 with possible extension till March 2028

The scholarship is targeted at financially disadvantaged but academically gifted students, bridging the gap between local talent and global opportunities. Funding has already been allocated in the 2025–26 budget.

GHMC launches smart digital services to boost transparency

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Kaanchi Chawla

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August 11, 2025

In a bid to modernise civic administration and enhance transparency, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has rolled out a series of technology-driven initiatives under its IT Wing. These services, accessible through the MyGHMC mobile app, aim to streamline urban governance, improve citizen engagement, and set a benchmark for smart city management in India.

According to GHMC Additional Commissioner (Revenue & IT) Anuraag Jayanthi, the goal is to transform GHMC into a role model for innovative, citizen-centric governance, ensuring that service delivery is swift, accountable, and accessible to all.

Key Smart Services Now Available on MyGHMC App

E-Waste Pickup Booking – Residents can now book doorstep collection of electronic waste, promoting eco-friendly disposal practices.
Mosquito Fogging Requests – A quick request system to schedule fogging operations, tackling mosquito-borne health issues promptly.
Garbage & C&D Waste Reporting via WhatsApp – Citizens can lodge complaints regarding garbage or construction debris dumping for swift action.
Geo-Tagged Anti-Larval Operation Tracking – Field inspections are monitored with geo-tagged images to ensure transparency and accountability.
Comprehensive Sanitation Challan Management – An internal tool for GHMC officers to streamline challan management and enhance operational efficiency.
AI-Powered Facial Attendance – A contactless attendance system for head office staff, ensuring accurate workforce tracking.
GIS Mapping of Urban Assets – Digital mapping of parks, public toilets, streetlights, and other civic assets to support better urban planning.

Also Read: IIT Gandhinagar and Ethiopia’s Ministry of Education launch joint PhD Programme

With these digital-first solutions, GHMC aims to not only simplify civic processes like property tax payments, building permissions, and grievance redressal, but also make Hyderabad a frontrunner in smart governance.

IIT Gandhinagar and Ethiopia’s Ministry of Education launch joint PhD Programme

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Kaanchi Chawla

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August 7, 2025

The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Education, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, to launch a joint doctoral programme, Multidisciplinary International Quality Improvement Doctoral Degree Program (MIQMDDP). This initiative is designed to strengthen academic and research cooperation between India and Ethiopia.

Under this five-year collaboration, up to 15 Ethiopian PhD scholars will be selected annually to pursue research under joint supervision by faculty from both IITGN and Ethiopian institutions. The selected scholars will spend 12 to 18 months at IITGN, with institutional support as per IITGN norms, while the Ethiopian Ministry of Education will fund international travel.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was officially signed at IIT Gandhinagar by its Director, Professor Rajat Moona, in the presence of key institutional leaders, including Professor Surya Pratap Mehrotra (External Relations), Professor Nithin V George (Dean, General Administration), Professor Kabeer Jasuja (International Affairs), and Dr Somnath Mitra (CEO, Centre for Research Commercialization). Representing Ethiopia, Prof Krishnaraj Ramaswamy, Joint PhD Coordinator and Principal Scientific Advisor, Ministry of Innovation and Technology, also attended the ceremony.

Prof. Moona expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We look forward to welcoming Ethiopian scholars and building impactful research partnerships between our countries.” Prof Mehrotra highlighted the broader potential of the MoU to foster deeper engagement with universities across Africa.

Also Read: Indian Army and IIT Madras launch ‘AGNISHODH’

Prof. Ramaswamy termed the agreement a landmark moment for India-Ethiopia academic ties, noting that the programme will offer scholars interdisciplinary mentorship, advanced research infrastructure, and global exposure.

This joint effort reflects a shared commitment to fostering research excellence, building academic bridges, and nurturing globally competent scholars.

The Need for Upskilling amid Tech Sector Layoffs

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digitalLEARNING Network

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August 6, 2025

As the tech sector continues to face large-scale layoffs, the need to stay relevant hasn’t been more urgent. With companies rapidly undergoing restructuring, tech professionals are under significant pressure to adapt. In 2024 alone, over 2.8 million jobs have been lost, with organisations across the globe enforcing significant workforce adjustments. The trend has continued this year with over 61,000 job losses across 130 companies to date. Major players like Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Intel are pivoting toward high-growth areas like data science, analytics, AI, automation, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. What used to be performance-based exits are now skill-alignment decisions, showing us that those with future-ready skills are better positioned to not just survive but thrive. In this new landscape, “upskilling” isn’t just an option; it’s essential to stay relevant.

From Performance-Based Exits to Skill-Alignment Decisions

Historically, layoffs in the tech sector were largely attributed to performance-related factors. However, the current wave of job cuts signals a broader trend wherein companies are increasingly making workforce decisions based on skill sets rather than just individual performance. As organisations undergo workforce restructuring, the emphasis is shifting toward ensuring that employees possess the skills needed to thrive in high-growth areas like data science, analytics, AI, automation, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. As per the estimates by Goldman Sachs, AI is expected to automate up to two-thirds of current jobs and potentially displace 300 million jobs worldwide, highlighting the urgent need to adapt to the newer skill sets.

This shift demonstrates the growing need for professionals to develop skills that align with the rapidly changing demands of the tech industry. With this, companies are prioritising employees proficient in in-demand fields like data science, analytics, machine learning, and AI. Those with these future-ready skills are much more likely to be retained, redeployed, or promoted, even as their organisations undergo restructuring.

Future-proofing Employees for Retention

The evolving nature of job roles in the tech sector underscores the importance of skill development. As businesses shift focus to technologies like data science, analytics, AI, automation, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, employees lacking the necessary skills are at risk of being left behind. Reports indicate that industries such as enterprise software and hardware are particularly vulnerable, with many job roles being automated or replaced by AI-driven efficiencies. According to the World Economic Forum, 23% of current jobs are expected to change by 2027, with approximately 83 million jobs expected to be lost and 69 million new jobs created due to technological shifts.

Employees who proactively invest in their skill development are not only positioning themselves to survive but also to thrive in the future job market. Those who prioritise reskilling are more likely to remain valuable to their organisations and capitalise on emerging opportunities, reinforcing the need for workforce adaptability to stay competitive in the face of constant technological change.

The Crucial Role of Education Platforms

In this rapidly changing environment, education platforms have become essential in bridging the gap between industry demands and workforce capabilities. As digital literacy becomes a fundamental necessity, Education companies are playing a pivotal role in equipping professionals with the skills required for success in the tech-driven job market. Industry data estimates that the Indian EdTech market is projected to reach $29 billion by 2030, with an increased shift in focus from degrees to high-demand skills.

Platforms offering targeted digital skilling programs help individuals develop expertise in high-demand fields like data science, analytics, AI, automation, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. These programs provide flexibility of on-demand learning, allowing professionals to acquire new skills at their own pace and stay ahead in an era of continuous technological advancements. This enables workers to remain relevant and resilient as new job roles and technologies continue to emerge. Data suggests that 75% of Indian companies find it difficult to source skilled professionals in data science, analytics, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, a gap that education technology companies are addressing actively.

Upskilling and Reskilling for Retention and Agility

As industries embrace digital transformation, upskilling has become essential for businesses to stay competitive. Technologies like data science, analytics, AI, automation, cybersecurity, and cloud computing are reshaping operations and employee roles. For companies facing workforce restructuring, investing in reskilling is a strategic move. By offering opportunities for skill development, businesses can enhance workforce adaptability, boost morale, and improve retention. Organisations with robust upskilling initiatives have witnessed 30-50% higher retention rates.

Professionals equipped with future-ready skills are better positioned to thrive in the evolving job market, reducing the need for costly layoffs. As new roles emerge, reskilling ensures both organisations and employees remain agile, meeting the demands of emerging technologies. Those who embrace digital adaptability will be well-prepared to navigate the changing landscape, staying ahead in a job market defined by continuous technological evolution.

The Importance of On-Demand Skilling Programs

A key trend driving upskilling is the rise of on-demand skilling programs, offering flexibility for professionals to learn skills directly applicable to their work. In today’s fast-paced job market, this is crucial for those needing to quickly acquire new skills or adapt to new roles without disrupting work or personal commitments. As per Microsoft, 71% of employees now seek frequent skill updates, and 80% are calling on their organisations to prioritise upskilling and reskilling investments, indicating a strong demand for accessible learning.

These programs cater to a wide range of professionals, from entry-level employees to executives, ensuring that workers at all levels have access to essential training. Whether mastering digital tools or understanding emerging technologies, on-demand skilling allows individuals to continuously adapt, stay competitive, and grow in an ever-evolving industry.

Also Read: AIMC recognised among the best mass media colleges in India for excellence in media education

Securing the Future Workforce

The need for upskilling in the tech sector is urgent. As companies restructure and lay off employees, skill development is essential for professionals to stay competitive. The shift toward AI, automation, and cloud computing is creating new opportunities for those prepared. EdTech platforms and digital skilling programs play a crucial role in helping professionals acquire future-ready skills. By investing in reskilling, companies can retain talent and drive digital transformation. Those dedicated to continuous learning and adaptability will be best positioned for success, as upskilling is key to securing long-term success in an increasingly digital world.

“The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways!”

Views expressed by Nikhil Barshikar, Founder & CEO, Imarticus Learning

Indian Army and IIT Madras launch ‘AGNISHODH’

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Kaanchi Chawla

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August 6, 2025

In a decisive move to strengthen India’s defence capabilities through indigenous innovation, the Indian Army has inaugurated a cutting-edge research centre, ‘AGNISHODH – Indian Army Research Cell (IARC)’, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. The facility was officially launched by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), during his recent two-day visit to Chennai.

The establishment of Agnishodh aligns with the Army’s long-term transformation strategy based on the Five Pillars of Transformation, particularly the emphasis on modernisation and technological infusion. The new research cell will act as a crucial bridge between military requirements and academic innovation, enabling rapid translation of lab-based research into operational defence technologies.

Addressing an audience at IIT Madras, General Dwivedi delivered a keynote address on “Operation Sindoor – A New Chapter in India’s Fight Against Terrorism”. He described the high-impact, intelligence-led, tri-services operation as a game-changer in India’s counter-terrorism strategy. Spanning 88 hours, Operation Sindoor exemplified India’s ability to execute swift and coordinated responses across the DIME (Diplomatic, Informational, Military, and Economic) framework, compelling Pakistan to seek a ceasefire in record time.

He also spoke about the evolving character of warfare, noting the shift toward fifth-generation conflict characterised by non-contact operations, strategic momentum, and psychological dominance. Emphasising “Swadeshikaran Se Sashaktikaran”, he highlighted the Army’s commitment to nurturing indigenous capabilities through collaborations under initiatives like INDIAai, Chip-to-Startup, and Project QuILA, with MCTE Mhow as a pivotal partner.

General Dwivedi commended the role of IITs and leading institutions in contributing to India’s defence readiness. He made special mention of successful Army partnerships with IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur, and IISc Bengaluru, and praised IIT Madras for pioneering efforts in additive manufacturing and projects like Project SAMBHAV. He remarked that Agnishodh would catalyse battlefield-ready innovation and significantly contribute to the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The collaboration will also extend into the IIT Madras Research Park, where Agnishodh will work alongside tech incubators like the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Centre (AMTDC) and the Pravartak Technologies Foundation. This will provide a unique innovation ecosystem to transform early-stage research into deployable defence solutions.

Beyond R&D, Agnishodh is set to become a pivotal platform for reskilling and upskilling Indian Army personnel in emerging domains such as cybersecurity, quantum computing, wireless systems, unmanned aerial platforms, and additive manufacturing—laying the foundation for a future-ready, tech-empowered military force.

During his Chennai visit, the COAS also toured the Officers Training Academy (OTA), where he was briefed on its modern infrastructure, evolving training frameworks, and the efforts to shape future-ready military leaders. He appreciated the academy’s focus on inculcating core values and combat readiness in officer cadets.

Reinforcing the Army’s “Decade of Transformation”, General Dwivedi remarked that modern conflicts will necessitate a seamless synergy between traditional strength and technological prowess, where “boots must share space with bots.”

Also Read: IIM Raipur launches 12-month advanced certificate programme

The visit concluded with an interaction with military veterans, where the COAS honoured four retired personnel with Veteran Achievers Awards—recognising their lifelong dedication and contributions to nation-building.

With AGNISHODH, the Indian Army has taken a decisive step towards integrating frontier technologies with operational readiness, embodying the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat and setting a bold course for future military innovation.

Nagaland University launches first interdisciplinary MA in language & culture to preserve Naga heritage

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Kaanchi Chawla

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August 4, 2025

Nagaland University has introduced a pioneering Master of Arts (MA) in Language and Culture, marking its first interdisciplinary postgraduate programme. Designed to safeguard and promote the rich linguistic and cultural legacy of the Naga communities, the course integrates diverse academic perspectives to encourage a more holistic and inclusive approach to education.

Offered by the Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies, the two-year, four-semester programme is set to commence on August 5, with an initial intake of 20 students. Unlike conventional programmes confined to a single discipline, this course allows students to engage with multiple areas of study, fostering cross-disciplinary insight into language, literature, history, and indigenous knowledge systems.

Graduates of the programme will be eligible to appear for the UGC NET in three key areas—Linguistics, Folk Literature, and Tribal and Regional Languages—opening doors to a broad range of academic and professional opportunities. Career pathways include teaching, research, digital archiving, policy analysis, language planning, and roles in the development and consultancy sectors.

Speaking on the initiative, Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University, said,

“This programme is a landmark initiative—our first interdisciplinary master’s degree—dedicated to preserving and promoting the Naga people’s heritage. It demonstrates our commitment to academic innovation, inclusivity, and indigenous knowledge.”

Also Read: IIM Raipur launches 12-month advanced certificate programme

Nagaland University, established under the Nagaland University Act 1989 and operational since September 6, 1994, is the 13th Central University in India. With jurisdiction across the state, the university continues to lead educational development in the Northeast through such forward-thinking programmes.

IIM Raipur launches 12-month advanced certificate programme

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Kaanchi Chawla

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August 4, 2025

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur has introduced a 12-month Advanced Certificate Programme in General Management, aimed at empowering early to mid-career professionals with the cross-functional and digital leadership skills needed in today’s fast-evolving business landscape.

Offered in collaboration with edtech platform Emeritus, the fully online course begins on September 30, 2025, and is tailored for working professionals, including managers, consultants, entrepreneurs, and functional heads seeking enterprise-level leadership roles.

This strategic programme covers core business disciplines such as strategy, marketing, finance, operations, and HR, while also integrating emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Generative AI (GenAI), analytics, digital transformation, and cloud computing. Participants will benefit from a mix of live faculty-led sessions, recorded modules, six industry masterclasses, and an optional campus immersion for networking and peer learning.

Designed to develop data-driven, innovation-focused decision-makers, the programme addresses the growing need for professionals who can lead transformation across departments and industries.

Eligibility and Certification
Graduates (10+2+3) from UGC/AICTE/DEC/AIU-recognised universities and equivalent international bodies are eligible to apply. Upon successful completion and meeting evaluation criteria, participants will receive a certificate from IIM Raipur and gain alumni status, unlocking access to career services such as resume-building, interview prep, and IIMJobs Pro membership.

Priced at ₹1,45,000 + GST, this programme aligns with current leadership trends, especially in light of the EY CEO Outlook Pulse Survey 2025, which found that over 88% of Indian CEOs prioritize upskilling to stay competitive.

Also Read: Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 enters Guinness World Records

IIM Raipur, ranked 14th in the NIRF 2024 Management category and a member of the AACSB Business Education Alliance, continues to reshape executive education through future-forward, digitally enabled learning.

Key Smart Services Now Available on MyGHMC App

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