IIT Madras Launches ‘Fine Arts and Culture Excellence’ Quota for Undergraduate Admissions

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December 18, 2024

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has announced the launch of the Fine Arts and Culture Excellence (FACE) admission scheme for its undergraduate programmes. This first-of-its-kind initiative aims to acknowledge and reward students who have demonstrated exceptional talent and achievements in fine arts and cultural activities.

Under the FACE scheme, two additional seats per programme will be created across all BTech and BS courses at IIT Madras. Of these, one seat will be reserved exclusively for female candidates, while the other will be open to all genders. The provision applies to Indian Nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)/Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) who have opted to be treated as Indian nationals during the JEE (Advanced) 2025 registration process.

Speaking at the launch, IIT Madras Director Professor V Kamakoti emphasized the significance of the initiative. “IIT Madras is embarking on a new journey to recognise and reward talent in fine arts and culture through the Fine Arts and Culture Excellence admission scheme. We are excited to provide this unique opportunity for students to join our prestigious programmes,” he said.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates interested in applying under the FACE admission scheme must meet the following requirements:

Qualify for JEE (Advanced) 2025 with a valid rank.
Fulfill the minimum academic criteria for IIT admissions.
Demonstrate significant achievements in fine arts or cultural activities recognized within specific categories.

Also Read: IIT Delhi-Abu Dhabi Launches Inaugural PhD Programme in Energy and Sustainability

Independent Application and Seat Allocation Process

Applications for FACE admission will be submitted through a dedicated portal, independent of the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) platform. A FACE Rank List (FRL) will be prepared based on candidates’ cultural achievements.

Seats will be allocated in multiple rounds based on the FRL. Selected candidates must withdraw from JoSAA 2025 and pay the seat acceptance fee. The process will allow candidates to freeze or slide seats, similar to the JoSAA allocation process.

This year, IIT Madras is the sole institute offering the FACE admission scheme, setting a precedent for integrating cultural excellence with academic achievement in India’s higher education landscape. For more details, visit the official FACE portal.

IIT Delhi-Abu Dhabi Launches Inaugural PhD Programme in Energy and Sustainability

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December 18, 2024

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has unveiled its first PhD programme at its international campus in Abu Dhabi, focusing on the critical areas of Energy and Sustainability. This programme is set to commence in January 2025 and aims to address critical global challenges related to energy transitions and environmental sustainability.

The PhD programme is designed to delve into advanced research areas, including:

Renewable energy systems
Sustainable process engineering
Decarbonisation strategies
Process intensification
Microgrids and power distribution
Application of artificial intelligence and data science in energy transitions

Scholars will work on frontier topics linked to achieving NetZero targets, promoting solutions with real-world impact.

Application Details

Prospective candidates can submit their applications online until December 31, 2024. The selection process will evaluate applicants based on academic merit, qualifying examination scores, relevant experience, and performance in interviews. Notably, the application fee has been waived for this inaugural cohort.

Financial Support

Admitted students will benefit from full tuition waivers and attractive monthly scholarships. The programme is open to both UAE nationals and international students, reflecting IIT Delhi-Abu Dhabi’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment.

Strategic Alignment with UAE Priorities

This initiative aligns with the UAE’s strategic focus on sustainable energy and technological innovation. By establishing advanced research programmes in Abu Dhabi, IIT Delhi aims to contribute significantly to the region’s educational and industrial landscape.

Also Read: India’s Schools Witness 73% Rise in Electrification Over a Decade

Expansion of Academic Offerings

The launch of the PhD programme follows the introduction of other academic courses at the Abu Dhabi campus, including an MTech programme in Energy Transition and Sustainability in January 2024, and two BTech programmes in Computer Science and Engineering, and Energy Engineering in September 2024. The programme aligns with the UAE’s priorities, underlining the institute’s focus on sustainable solutions through academic and research excellence.

For more information on the PhD programme and application process, candidates can visit the official website: abudhabi.iitd.ac.in/ph.d_admissions.

India’s Schools Witness 73% Rise in Electrification Over a Decade

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December 18, 2024

India has made remarkable progress in schools electrification over the past decade. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently announced that 91.8% of schools across the country now have access to electricity, a significant leap from 53% in 2013-14. This achievement underscores the government’s efforts to strengthen educational infrastructure and create better learning environments for students.

The improvement is part of a broader initiative to address infrastructure gaps, particularly in rural and underserved areas. As per Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) data, the electrification rate in schools has shown steady growth over recent years. In 2019-20, 80.16% of schools had electricity, rising to 86.58% by 2021-22. Union Territories like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Puducherry now boast 100% electrification, while states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat report near-total coverage.

However, regional disparities persist. Rural schools, particularly in northeastern states, Odisha, and Jammu & Kashmir, face challenges in accessing functional electricity. These gaps highlight the need for targeted interventions to ensure equitable infrastructure development across urban and rural regions.

Electricity in schools goes beyond powering lights and fans. It serves as a foundation for modernizing education, enabling smart classrooms, computer labs, and audio-visual learning tools. For rural and government schools, electrification is transformative, providing students access to digital learning and bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary education systems.

Also Read: India Tops International Junior Science Olympiad with Unprecedented Six Gold Medals

This achievement is a testament to the government’s focus on holistic educational reforms. The drive toward electrification aligns with broader goals of enhancing learning outcomes and creating an environment where every child has access to quality education. However, addressing remaining challenges, such as ensuring reliable electricity in remote areas, will be essential to sustaining this progress.

India’s electrification journey reflects its commitment to empowering future generations through improved infrastructure and equitable access to educational resources, marking a significant step toward a brighter future.

India Tops International Junior Science Olympiad with Unprecedented Six Gold Medals

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December 17, 2024

India has achieved a historic milestone at the 21st International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) held in Bucharest, Romania, from December 2 to 11, 2024. The Indian contingent secured six gold medals, emerging as the best-performing nation among participants from 57 countries.

The IJSO is a prestigious annual competition that challenges students under the age of 16 in the disciplines of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology through rigorous theoretical and experimental examinations. The top 10% of participants are awarded gold medals, making India’s clean sweep of six golds a remarkable feat.

List of Indian Gold Medalists at IJSO 2024:

Swetank Aggarwal
Bhavyaa Gunwal
Jinansh Shah
Manas Goel
Harshit Singla
Pranit Mathur

The selection and training of these exceptional students were overseen by the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT), an organisation dedicated to promoting excellence in science education across the country.

A felicitation ceremony was organised on December 13, 2024, at Vidyavardhaka Sangha in Rajajinagar to honor the students and their mentors. The event was graced by Professor Anil Kumar, Dean of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), as the chief guest. Other dignitaries included Professor Ahluwalia, President of IAPT, Professor Dwarakanath, Chairman of Vidyavardhaka Sangha, and Professor Lakshminarasu, Vice Chairperson.

Educational institutions played a significant role in nurturing these young talents. Notably, students from Narayana Educational Institutions, including Bhavyaa Gunwal and Shwetank Agrawal, contributed to the gold tally. Dr. P. Sindhura, Director of Narayana Educational Institutions, expressed pride in their achievements, stating, “Our students have once again exemplified what dedication, hard work, and the right guidance can achieve.”

Also Read :- NTA to End Recruitment Exams, Prioritise Higher Education Entrances starting 2025: Dharmendra Pradhan

Similarly, four students from Allen Career Institute were among the gold medalists, highlighting the institute’s commitment to academic excellence. A spokesperson from Allen stated, “With six gold medals, India has secured the top position among 57 participating countries.”

The Indian govenment’s support and investment in science education have been instrumental in this success. By providing resources and opportunities for young scientists, the government aims to foster innovation and maintain India’s competitive edge in the global scientific community.

The IJSO was established in 2004 and has since become a platform for young students worldwide to showcase their scientific prowess. India’s consistent participation and success in the Olympiad underscore the country’s dedication to cultivating a strong foundation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.

This unprecedented achievement not only brings honor to the nation but also inspires future generations of Indian students to pursue excellence in the sciences. The collective efforts of students, educators, and institutions have set a new benchmark in the realm of international academic competitions.

NTA to End Recruitment Exams, Prioritise Higher Education Entrances starting 2025: Dharmendra Pradhan

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December 17, 2024

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will discontinue conducting recruitment examinations from 2025 and will focus exclusively on higher education entrance tests, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced on Tuesday. The move follows recommendations by a high-level panel constituted earlier this year in response to controversies such as the NEET paper leak and repeated exam cancellations due to suspected leaks and technical issues.

Speaking about the reforms, Pradhan said, “The NTA will restrict itself to entrance exams for higher education. Recruitment exams will no longer be part of its mandate starting next year.” He also confirmed that the Common University Entrance Test (CUET)-UG will continue to be held annually.

The Ministry of Education is also exploring a shift to technology-driven and computer-adaptive tests, which are expected to ensure a more secure and efficient testing process. Discussions with the Ministry of Health are ongoing regarding whether the NEET exam will adopt a computer-based format or retain the traditional pen-and-paper approach.

Additionally, Pradhan announced a significant restructuring of the NTA in 2025. “At least ten new posts are being created to improve its functioning. The aim is to make NTA a zero-error testing agency,” he said.

Also Read :- XAT 2025 Achieves Record 1.42 Lakh Registrations Amid Key Exam Updates

The reforms come in the wake of major examination challenges, including the alleged leak of the NEET-UG 2024 question paper and several exam cancellations. These incidents raised concerns about the integrity of the testing system and prompted demands for a robust overhaul. By narrowing its focus to entrance exams, the NTA seeks to strengthen its operations, restore credibility, and enhance the overall examination experience for candidates.

The National Testing Agency was established in 2017 as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Education and has been responsible for conducting entrance examinations for higher educational institutions and recruitment tests for various government positions. As the NTA undergoes restructuring, the Ministry of Education emphasises its commitment to creating a transparent, efficient, and error-free examination system that upholds the standards of higher education in India.

XAT 2025 Achieves Record 1.42 Lakh Registrations Amid Key Exam Updates

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December 16, 2024

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2025 has set a new milestone, with a record-breaking 1,42,235 registrations, surpassing last year’s count of 1.35 lakh. This marks a significant leap from the pandemic-era low of 79,843 registrations in 2021, demonstrating a remarkable resurgence in students’ interest in management education.

The surge reflects a consistent upward trend since 2023, fueled by strategic initiatives to enhance XAT’s appeal. An official statement attributed the rise to a targeted outreach campaign led by XAT’s organizing team and its associate business schools, designed to dispel myths and position XAT as a test for top-tier aspirants.

“XAT stands for inclusivity and diversity, and this record number underscores our commitment to these principles. It also highlights the aspirants’ trust in the transformative power of management education,” said Prof. Rahul Shukla, XAT 2025 Convenor. “The unprecedented registration figures are a testament to our efforts in demonstrating the unique value of XAT and its role in shaping future leaders,” he further noted.

Key Changes in XAT 2025

This year introduces several changes to enhance the testing and evaluation experience:

Scientific Calculators Allowed: Candidates can now access a scientific calculator directly through the exam interface during the test, marking a significant shift in the exam’s approach to evaluating quantitative and analytical skills.
Expanded Test Centre Network: To accommodate the growing number of applicants, 34 new test cities have been added. These include locations like Anantapur, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Kolhapur, Shimla, and Ujjain, among others, providing wider accessibility for candidates nationwide.
Revised Analytical Essay Writing (AEW): Unlike previous editions, the AEW component will now be assessed during the Group Discussion and Personal Interview (GD/PI) stages rather than as part of the main test.
Updated General Knowledge Section: The General Knowledge section has been revised to include 20 questions, down from 25. The updated format balances 12 questions on current affairs with 8 on static knowledge, offering a more focused evaluation of candidates’ awareness.

Also Read: IIM Raipur Offers Free Training Programmes to Boost Startups and MSME Growth

These updates showcase XAT’s commitment to staying ahead in testing innovation while catering to the aspirations of candidates and the expectations of business schools. The record-breaking registrations and thoughtful enhancements highlight XAT’s continued relevance as a key gateway to India’s top management institutions, solidifying its reputation in the competitive MBA entrance landscape.

IIM Raipur Offers Free Training Programmes to Boost Startups and MSME Growth

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December 16, 2024

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur, in partnership with the Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Program (ESDP) Division of MSME, has announced two specialised development programmes aimed at empowering aspiring entrepreneurs and strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The programmes, fully funded by ESDP and MSME, are open to eligible candidates free of cost.

Interested individuals can apply for:

Advanced E-SDP for New Venture Creation (February 3-7, 2025)
Advanced MDP for Business Scale-Up for MSMEs (February 3-8, 2025)

Applications are open until January 12, 2025, with priority given to candidates from underrepresented groups such as SC, ST, OBC, women, and persons with disabilities.

Program Highlights:

Advanced E-SDP for New Venture Creation:
This 5-day intensive programme is tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to transform innovative ideas into viable business ventures. Participants will gain practical knowledge of entrepreneurial marketing, financing, operational management, leadership, and legal aspects of startups. The curriculum covers end-to-end business setup, from identifying market opportunities to building sustainable management structures, with a focus on corporate governance and industry-specific strategies.
Advanced MDP for Business Scale-Up for MSMEs:
Designed for MSME owners and managers, this 6-day programme addresses growth challenges and equips participants with the tools to scale operations effectively. Core topics include opportunity identification, global venture expansion, securing finances, marketing strategies, and managing family business complexities. By the programme’s conclusion, participants will develop actionable growth roadmaps for their enterprises.

Eligibility and Selection:
Candidates must be graduates, aged 18 or above, with a strong desire to enhance their entrepreneurial or business skills. While applications are open nationwide, special emphasis is placed on candidates from Chhattisgarh and those from SC/ST/OBC/women/PH categories.

Applicants will be shortlisted based on ESDP guidelines, with potential follow-up interactions for final selection. Selected candidates will receive formal admission confirmation.

Also Read: BHU Awards Degrees to Over 14,000 Students at 104th Convocation

Leadership Vision:
Professor Ram Kumar Kakani, Director of IIM Raipur, emphasised the institution’s commitment to fostering innovation and empowering entrepreneurs:
“At IIM Raipur, we aim to fuel entrepreneurial aspirations, support MSME resilience, and contribute to India’s journey towards becoming a global economic powerhouse under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. These programmes focus on nurturing a culture of innovation and inclusivity, especially among underrepresented communities.”

Both programmes will be held offline at IIM Raipur, welcoming participants from across India.

BHU Awards Degrees to Over 14,000 Students at 104th Convocation

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December 16, 2024

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) celebrated its 104th Convocation on December 14, marking a monumental milestone in its legacy. A total of 14,072 degrees were awarded across various faculties and disciplines. Among these were 867 PhD, 21 MPhil, 5,074 postgraduate, and 8,110 undergraduate degrees. The university also honoured exceptional academic performances by conferring 544 medals, including the coveted Chancellor’s Medals and Maharaja Vibhuti Narayan Singh Gold Medals.

The convocation was presided over by BHU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sudhir Kumar Jain and graced by distinguished alumnus Jay Chaudhry, Founder, CEO, and Chairman of Zscaler, as the Chief Guest. Chaudhry, a global leader in cybersecurity, delivered an inspiring keynote address, urging students to focus on creating meaningful impact rather than merely chasing financial gains.

“Adversity is a wonderful thing; it makes you figure things out,” said Chaudhry, as he recounted his journey from a humble farming family to global success. He emphasized the importance of resilience, hard work, and lifelong learning. Reflecting on his fond memories of BHU, he expressed gratitude for the role the institution played in shaping his career and life. Chaudhry encouraged graduates to uphold ethical values, maintain a positive attitude, and always strive for excellence.

Prof. Jain lauded the graduating students as future leaders and emphasized the role of gratitude, values, and collaboration in their lives ahead. “The challenges of the future require not just technical expertise but also ethical commitment, teamwork, and the ability to learn throughout life,” he said. He also encouraged students to give back to society and remain grateful to their teachers, families, and communities.

Also Read: India’s Internship Landscape Booms with 25% Surge in 2024

A key highlight of the event was the outstanding achievements of women graduates, with a significant number receiving gold medals. Recognising this, Chaudhry applauded their accomplishments and called for greater recognition of women’s potential. “India needs to realise the power of women,” he said, commending their academic excellence and perseverance.

The convocation also celebrated BHU’s strides in education, research, and infrastructure development, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing well-rounded leaders for the future.

IIM Lucknow Introduces High-Impact Course on Fintech and Applied Risk Management

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December 14, 2024

As the cryptocurrency revolution continues to transform the financial sector, the integration of finance and technology is driving new opportunities and challenges. With the surge in digital platforms, blockchain, and fintech innovations, professionals must be equipped with a strong understanding of both technology and risk management to safeguard consumer interests and maintain financial stability.

To meet the growing demand for skilled professionals, the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIM Lucknow), ranked 4th among India’s top business schools (FT-100 ranking), has partnered with Emeritus to launch its Executive Programme in Fintech, Banking, & Applied Risk Management.

According to the Global Fintech 2023: Reimagining the Future of Finance Report, Asia-Pacific (APAC) is set to overtake the United States, becoming the world’s leading fintech market by 2030, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27%.

This trend highlights the pressing need for professionals in the region to enhance their expertise in emerging financial technologies and advanced risk management, empowering organizations to leverage the opportunities presented by this rapid growth.

Designed for mid- to senior-level managers in banking and financial services, business leaders, risk management consultants, and early-career professionals, this 10-month, high-impact programme focuses on developing proficiency in fintech and risk management. The course also targets entrepreneurs and business owners aiming to refine their ventures.

Avnish Singhal, Executive Vice President for India and APAC at Emeritus, commented, “We are excited to collaborate with esteemed institutions like IIM Lucknow to offer this impactful programme. It equips professionals with the critical skills needed to excel in fintech and risk management, empowering them to navigate the complexities of the financial sector and develop innovative solutions that drive significant change.”

Also Read: Delhi Govt Plans AI Labs to Boost Technological Learning in Schools

The IIM Lucknow Executive Programme in Fintech, Banking & Applied Risk Management will feature live online sessions delivered by top IIM Lucknow faculty and international experts, along with a 2-day on-campus immersion at the IIM Lucknow campus. The curriculum includes a capstone project, real-world case studies, and hands-on business simulations. Key modules cover risk management in banking, regulatory frameworks, credit risk models, digital disruption, and innovation, among others.

PROGRAMME DETAILS:

Start date: December 30, 2024
Fee: Rs 2,20,000 + GST
Certification: Participants will receive a certificate of completion from IIM Lucknow and have the opportunity to gain IIM Lucknow Executive Alumni status upon successful completion and a minimum attendance of 75%.

For further information, candidates can visit the official IIM Lucknow website.

India’s Internship Landscape Booms with 25% Surge in 2024

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December 14, 2024

Internship opportunities witnessed a remarkable 25% increase in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to the “Annual Internship Trends Report 2024” by Internshala. Over the last five years, the report reveals a staggering 135% growth in internships, reflecting the rapid evolution of India’s internship culture.

The growing emphasis on practical work experience among students and young professionals highlights the increasing recognition by organisations of internships as a crucial pathway for nurturing industry-ready talent. Internships continue to bridge the gap between academia and industry, equipping students with real-world experience and preparing them for successful careers.

The report highlights the shift toward skill-based hiring, with organisations using internships as a strategic tool to identify and groom future talent. This trend signals a strong trajectory for further expansion in 2025, potentially outpacing the growth seen in 2024.

Sectors Offering Opportunities

Management roles dominated the internship space, accounting for 42% of all opportunities. Key areas included marketing, sales, finance, digital marketing, operations, and human resource management. Engineering followed with 20% of the opportunities, featuring roles in software and web development, product management, and disciplines like mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering.

Competitive Stipends and Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs)

Media internships represented 13% of the total, spanning journalism, public relations, creative writing, and videography. Education and design each claimed a 4% share, covering teaching, graphic design, UI/UX, and animation.

Internship stipends in 2024 reflected a competitive job market. The average stipend stood at ₹8,000 per month, with top offers soaring to ₹1,00,000 per month. Additionally, 22% of internships included pre-placement offers (PPOs), underscoring internships as a direct gateway to full-time employment.

Diversity and Work Flexibility Trends

Inclusivity was a standout theme in 2024, with 66% of employers expressing willingness to hire women returning to the workforce. Flexible programmes and mentorship initiatives supported this effort. Meanwhile, 49% of internships were work-from-home opportunities, highlighting the hybrid work model’s growing popularity among students and employers.

In-Demand Skills and Geographical Trends

The most sought-after skills in 2024 mirrored the evolving job market. Proficiency in English, MS Excel, social media marketing, and digital marketing were in high demand. Engineering and design roles required expertise in JavaScript, ReactJS, AutoCAD, and Adobe Photoshop.

While urban hubs like Delhi-NCR (31%), Mumbai (17%), and Bangalore (11%) remained dominant for internships, the rise of remote internships is decentralising opportunities, enabling students from tier-2 and tier-3 cities to access premium roles.

Also Read: IIM Lucknow Introduces High-Impact Course on Fintech and Applied Risk Management

Looking Ahead to 2025

The report concludes on an optimistic note, predicting that internships in 2025 will become even more inclusive, innovative, and aligned with industry demands. Employers are expected to offer more competitive perks, including certifications, letters of recommendation, and wellness programmes.

As the internship ecosystem evolves, its role in shaping career trajectories will only strengthen, reaffirming its position as a vital component of India’s professional landscape.

Key Changes in XAT 2025

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