November 27, 2024

The Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur has introduced the Anālakṣhya Metamaterial Surface Cloaking System (MSCS), a groundbreaking innovation in stealth technology designed to make objects nearly invisible to radar. This advanced system offers a transformative edge in defence and national security by significantly reducing detectability.

The Science Behind Anālakáṣhya

Developed by IIT Kanpur’s team of researchers and students, Anālakṣhya MSCS is a textile-based broadband metamaterial microwave absorber. Its unique design absorbs radar waves across a wide spectrum, effectively neutralizing Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imaging systems.

This capability enhances protection against radar-guided threats and provides modern warfare systems with unmatched stealth capabilities.

A Milestone in India’s Defence Self-Reliance

Anālakṣhya MSCS exemplifies India’s drive for self-reliance, with over 90% of its materials sourced domestically. After rigorous testing from 2019 to 2024 under various operational scenarios, the system demonstrated exceptional performance.

The technology has been licensed to Meta Tattva Systems Pvt. Ltd. for manufacturing, paving the way for its deployment by the Indian Armed Forces.

Transforming Modern Warfare

In an era dominated by radar surveillance, Anālakṣhya’s ability to absorb radar waves strengthens the survivability of equipment and personnel. It represents a critical asset in countering radar-guided threats and bolstering India’s defence infrastructure.

Also Read: IIT Delhi and DRDO Lead Quantum Revolution in Secure Communication

A Proud Collaboration

The launch event, graced by distinguished defence officials including Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar, and Lt. Gen. Cherish Mathson, highlighted the synergy between academia, industry, and the armed forces.

Anālakṣhya MSCS not only sets a new benchmark in stealth technology but also highlights India’s potential to lead in cutting-edge defence innovations.

IIT Delhi and DRDO Lead Quantum Revolution in Secure Communication

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November 27, 2024

The Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) have demonstrated advanced quantum communication technologies, setting a new standard for secure and tamper-proof communication. These innovations hold immense promise for defence and strategic sectors, emphasizing Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), a cutting-edge encryption method that detects any unauthorized access attemptQuantum technology heralds a future where sensitive data can be transmitted without fear of interception, marking a transformative leap in secure communication for defence, finance, and beyond.

Quantum Communication Milestones

The team successfully showcased QKD over fibre-optic cables, achieving secure communication across 50 km in the lab and 8 km on the IIT Delhi campus. Additionally, free-space quantum communication was tested over short distances, with QKD demonstrated for 20 metres indoors and 80 metres in open-air environments.

Pioneering Free-Space Technology with Indigenous Innovation

The experiments utilized the BBM-92 protocol, a state-of-the-art method that employs photon pairs for ultra-secure information exchange. Another highlight was hybrid entanglement, which achieved an exceptionally low error rate, pointing to its potential for next-generation communication systems.

A key aspect of this initiative was the development of indigenous components, including single-photon sources and high-performance detectors. By reducing dependence on imports, the project strengthens India’s quantum technology ecosystem, reinforcing its position as a leader in secure communication.

Also Read: Dharmendra Pradhan Introduces ‘TeacherApp’ to Redefine Teacher Training Nationwide.

Advancing India’s Quantum Landscape

These achievements build on India’s first QKD demonstration in 2022, which established secure quantum communication over 100 km between Prayagraj and Vindhyachal. With support from defence-focused deep-tech programs, IIT Delhi and DRDO continue to push the boundaries of quantum research.

Dharmendra Pradhan Introduces ‘TeacherApp’ to Redefine Teacher Training Nationwide

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digitalLEARNING Network

November 26, 2024

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has unveiled the TeacherApp, a digital platform designed to support and enhance the professional development of educators across India. The launch event, held in New Delhi, focused on the theme “Elevating Teachers, Elevating India”, emphasizing the government’s commitment to empowering teachers as the cornerstone of the nation’s education system.

A Step Towards 21st-Century Classrooms

The TeacherApp equips educators with innovative tools and resources for continuous professional growth, aligning with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Highlighting the role of teachers as Karmayogis shaping future generations, Pradhan stressed the importance of equipping them with future-ready skills to thrive in modern classrooms.

“The TeacherApp is a step towards creating a community of empowered educators who will drive India’s educational progress in this knowledge-driven era,” said Pradhan. The app offers a wide array of high-quality resources, including:

260+ hours of content such as courses, podcasts, webinars, and videos.
Live expert sessions with actionable strategies for effective teaching.
Quizzes and interactive activities to engage teachers in skill-building.

User-Friendly and Inclusive Design

The platform, developed with input from educators, is accessible on the Web, iOS, and Android devices. It caters to both traditional teaching needs and emerging challenges, offering support in 12 states through strategic collaborations.

Beyond offering resources, the app fosters a community where educators can share impactful stories, collaborate with peers, and learn from live expert sessions. This focus on community building aims to create a robust support system for teachers nationwide.

An Initiative by Bharti Airtel Foundation

The TeacherApp was developed by the Bharti Airtel Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Bharti Enterprises. The launch event saw the presence of Rakesh Bharti Mittal, Vice Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, and Mamta Saikia, CEO of Bharti Airtel Foundation, along with education leaders, school principals, teachers, and students from teacher-training programs.

Also Read: IIT Madras Launches Human-Centric AI Centre to Drive Innovation and Empowerment

Transforming Schools and Classrooms

Aligned with NEP 2020, the TeacherApp aspires to transform schools into safe, inclusive, and dynamic learning environments. It also provides tailored resources for school leaders and administrators, facilitating holistic growth in education.

IIT Madras Launches Human-Centric AI Centre to Drive Innovation and Empowerment

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November 26, 2024

IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation has unveiled the Centre for Human-Centric Artificial Intelligence (CHAI), an initiative aimed at leveraging artificial intelligence to amplify human potential and deliver impactful solutions in key domains. The Centre will focus on technology development, fostering entrepreneurship, building human resources, and enabling global collaborations.

The Centre was launched on November 14, 2024 at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Lt.Gen. KS Brar, AVSM, GoC Dakshin Bharat; Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras; Dr. M.J. Shankar Raman, CEO, IIT-M Pravartak Technologies Foundation; Prof. Gaurav Raina, Chief Scientist, CHAI, students, researchers and other stakeholders.

CHAI operates under IIT-M Pravartak Technologies Foundation, which is funded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. The Foundation is already engaged in national projects, collaborating with entities such as the Supreme Court of India, Sansad TV, and the Indian Army.

Advancing Human-Centric AI
Setting the vision for CHAI, Prof. V. Kamakoti highlighted the significance of human-centric AI systems, emphasising explainability and responsibility as core principles. “These systems are crucial for ensuring user trust and adoption,” he stated. Lt. Gen. Brar called for a future where AI empowers humanity, enhancing lives and fostering a better world.

The Centre’s activities align with Industry 5.0 principles, focusing on human-centricity, sustainability, and translational research. It aims to deliver impactful solutions across domains such as education, healthcare, financial services, cybersecurity, and cultural preservation.

Key Areas of Research and Innovation
CHAI will tackle critical challenges, including:

Language Models: Developing small, domain-specific models tailored for contextualized and non-English datasets, with a strong emphasis on Indian languages.
Responsible AI: Ensuring innovations prioritize ethics, safety, and privacy while addressing issues like bias and disinformation.

Also Read: India Advances Research and Innovation with ‘One Nation One Subscription’ and AIM 2.0 Approval.

Capacity Building and Collaboration
The Centre will offer internships and research opportunities for students nationwide, fostering a pipeline of AI talent. Students at IIT Madras can engage in advanced research, co-guided by CHAI experts, strengthening India’s capacity for AI innovation.

Additionally, the Centre will collaborate with government agencies, industries, startups, and academic institutions to create solutions with both local and global impact. Applications will span from enhancing education and healthcare to protecting citizens through cybersecurity and preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.

India Advances Research and Innovation with ‘One Nation One Subscription’ and AIM 2.0 Approval

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digitalLEARNING Network

November 26, 2024

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the ambitious One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) scheme, designed to make scholarly research and academic journals accessible to learners and researchers across India. One Nation One Subscription initiative, backed by a budget of ₹6,000 crore for the 2025–2027 period, will provide seamless digital access to academic resources for over 1.8 crore students, faculty members, and researchers. Alongside ONOS, the Cabinet has also extended the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog, with a funding of ₹2,750 crore until March 2028.

About ONOS Scheme

ONOS will be implemented by the Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET), an autonomous body under the University Grants Commission (UGC). It will cover more than 6,300 higher education institutions and central government R&D laboratories, aiming to bridge academic divides, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

Aligned with the goals of Viksit Bharat@2047 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this scheme supports the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) in fostering interdisciplinary research and innovation. The government will negotiate national licenses with leading STEM and social science publishers, replacing individual institutional subscriptions. This approach is expected to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance the quality of academic and scientific output in the country.

To ensure effective implementation, the Department of Higher Education will oversee a unified ONOS portal, enabling simplified access to resources. Additionally, the ANRF will monitor usage and publication metrics to maximize the scheme’s impact. Nationwide awareness campaigns are planned to encourage widespread adoption among eligible institutions.

Also Read: IIT Kanpur Gears Up for ASEAN-India Start-up Festival 2024 from November 28-30

AIM 2.0: Strengthening India’s Innovation Ecosystem

The Cabinet has also approved the continuation of the Atal Innovation Mission, now entering its second phase as AIM 2.0, with an allocation of ₹2,750 crore until March 31, 2028. AIM 2.0 seeks to deepen India’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem by fostering the growth of startups, creating employment opportunities, and developing high-impact products and services.

As India ranks 39th on the Global Innovation Index and houses the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, AIM 2.0 is expected to enhance the country’s global competitiveness. This initiative aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat and is set to play a pivotal role in accelerating India’s journey toward becoming a global innovation leader.

IIT Kanpur Gears Up for ASEAN-India Start-up Festival 2024 from November 28-30

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digitalLEARNING Network

November 25, 2024

The Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) at IIT Kanpur, in partnership with the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), is set to host the ASEAN-India Start-up Festival 2024.

Scheduled to take place from November 28 to 30 at Vivanta Taj in New Delhi, the event aims to strengthen cross-border collaborations and promote innovation by bringing together entrepreneurs and innovators from India and the 10 ASEAN member nations.

Spotlight on Deep-Tech and Sustainability
The festival will showcase cutting-edge solutions from 60 Indian startups and 40 ASEAN startups, focusing on deep-tech and sustainable innovations. These startups will present innovative approaches to addressing regional challenges while driving socio-economic growth through advanced technologies and sustainable practices.

Eminent Dignitaries to Attend
The event will be graced by notable dignitaries, including Jitendra Singh, Union Minister for Science and Technology; Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of DST; Professor Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur; Srikant Sastri, Chairman of the Geospatial Data Promotion & Development Committee; ambassadors from ASEAN nations; and senior government officials and industry leaders. Their participation highlights the importance of this initiative in fostering international partnerships and driving economic progress.

Also Read: Elon Musk Latest Venture ‘Ad Astra Preschool’ Aims to Revolutionise Early Education

A Packed Three-Day Agenda
The festival will feature seminars, exhibitions, pitch competitions, and networking sessions designed to promote B2B and G2G collaborations. These activities aim to strengthen innovation-driven economic ties between India and ASEAN countries.

The programme will culminate in industry visits to leading organisations in the Delhi-NCR region, providing participants with an opportunity to engage with India’s thriving innovation ecosystem.

The ASEAN-India Start-up Festival 2024 stands as a testament to the growing synergy between India and ASEAN nations, paving the way for a future of shared innovation and growth.

Elon Musk Latest Venture ‘Ad Astra Preschool’ Aims to Revolutionise Early Education

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digitalLEARNING Network

November 25, 2024

Ad Astra, a pre-kindergarten Montessori school funded by billionaire industrialist Elon Musk, has officially received its state permit to begin operations in Bastrop County, Texas. Approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission on November 14, the school cleared earlier delays in its application process, according to Fortune.

Located about 40 minutes from Austin, Ad Astra—Latin for “to the stars”—will initially cater to 24 children aged three to six. Rooted in exploration-based learning, the school emphasizes STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education. Activities range from creative exercises like coloring to geography lessons using maps and globes, all aimed at nurturing curiosity and foundational knowledge. Outdoor amenities such as a basketball court and tricycles further enhance the learning experience.

The curriculum draws inspiration from psychologists Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs, focusing on building responsibility, respect, and resourcefulness among students, as detailed in state permit documents obtained by Fortune.

From Preschool to a Broader Vision
Ad Astra is backed by Elon Musk’s X Foundation, a non-profit funded by the Musk Foundation with an investment of nearly $100 million. This preschool marks the first step in Musk’s ambitious plan to reshape education. Future phases may include the expansion to K-12 schools and the establishment of a university in Texas, contingent on the program’s success, Fortune reported.

For now, the school operates out of a modest white farmhouse near Musk’s company facilities in Bastrop County.

Innovative Management and Curriculum
The school is managed by Xplor Education, led by CEO Greg Marick, with three faculty members already on board. Ad Astra’s innovative approach integrates structured “work” and “play” periods, where children learn practical life skills like sweeping, resolving conflicts, and apologizing, according to the business website report.

Although Musk’s name is absent from the application documents, his involvement is clear. The X Foundation owns the property, and the application was submitted by Musk’s financial advisor, Jared Birchall, as revealed by Fortune.

Also Read: World Bank’s ‘Jobs at Your Doorstep’ Report Paves the Way for Skilling Young India

A Growing Legacy
Ad Astra’s current capacity of 54 students could increase based on community demand and quality metrics, as noted by the X Foundation. Tuition details for the Bastrop facility have yet to be disclosed.

World Bank’s ‘Jobs at Your Doorstep’ Report Paves the Way for Skilling Young India

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digitalLEARNING Network

November 25, 2024

In a significant step towards addressing the skill gap among young people, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, along with Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labour and Employment plus Youth Affairs and Sports, launched the Jobs at Your Doorstep: A Jobs Diagnostics for Young People in Six States report in New Delhi on Friday, November 22.

The event witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education & Literacy; Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; and Auguste Tano Kouame, Country Director for the World Bank in India. Also in attendance were Shabnam Sinha, Lead Education Specialist at the World Bank, other ministry officials, and school principals.

What is the Jobs at Your Doorstep Report?

The Jobs at Your Doorstep report is a comprehensive skills gap analysis aimed at aligning the trades taught in schools with the industry-specific needs of the districts they serve. Based on extensive primary and secondary research, the study focuses on six states participating in the World Bank’s Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) initiative: Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Rajasthan.

The findings emphasize the importance of embedding skill-based education into the school curriculum from grades 9 to 12. By adopting a bottom-up approach, the report delves deep into district-level needs to propose localized solutions for preparing students for diverse career opportunities.

Also Read: U.S. Hosts Record 1.1 Million International Students, India Takes the Lead: Report

India’s Path to Economic Empowerment

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan commended the World Bank for its in-depth analysis and urged the team to develop a pan-India framework based on the report’s findings. He highlighted the need to expand the definition of employment to encompass broader economic opportunities and empowerment, stressing that India’s population has the potential to drive the global economy.

Pradhan also emphasized the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s vision of integrating skilling into school education to better equip students for future challenges. “Skilling must start at the school level to create a workforce ready for the demands of the 21st-century economy,” he noted.

Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education & Literacy, underscored the NEP 2020’s focus on instilling discipline and consistent practice among students to help them achieve mastery in their chosen skills.

U.S. Hosts Record 1.1 Million International Students, India Takes the Lead: Report

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digitalLEARNING Network

November 23, 2024

International student enrollment at U.S. colleges and universities reached an all-time high of over 1.1 million (1,126,690) during the 2023-2024 academic year, marking a 7% increase from the previous year, according to the Open Doors 2024 Report on International Educational Exchange. This annual report is jointly published by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the Institute of International Education (IIE).

India emerged as the top contributor, sending a record 331,602 students—a 23% rise compared to the prior year. For the first time since 2009, India surpassed all other countries as the leading source of international students in the U.S.

India’s Dominance in Graduate and Professional Training

Indian students now account for 29% of the total international student population in the U.S., solidifying their position as the largest group of international graduate students for the second year in a row. Nearly 197,000 Indian students enrolled in graduate programs, reflecting a 19% year-on-year increase.

Participation in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows students to gain work experience in their field of study, surged by 41%, with 97,556 Indian students participating. However, the number of Indian students in non-degree programs fell by 28% to 1,426, while undergraduate enrollment grew by 13%, exceeding 36,000 students.

Remarks from U.S. and Indian Representatives

U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti highlighted India’s leadership, stating: “This year marks a significant milestone, with India surpassing all other countries in sending the most students to the U.S. for the first time since 2009.”

Sachin Jain, Country Manager for ETS India & South Asia, commented on the broader trends: “The Open Doors 2024 Report underscores the U.S.’s continued appeal as a global higher education hub. With over 1.1 million international students, the U.S. remains the top destination for learners worldwide. The remarkable 21% growth in Indian student numbers is primarily driven by graduate programs. These trends align with the rise in GRE and TOEFL test takers, reinforcing the U.S.’s position as their preferred choice.”

Also Read: CBSE and ICAI Join Hands to Boost Financial Literacy and Career Readiness Among Students

Broader Implications of Growth

The report also highlights the significant role of Indian students in the U.S. higher education landscape, particularly in advanced studies and workforce development. The surge in OPT participation highlights the growing demand for skilled professionals in the U.S. economy, while increased enrollment across all levels reflects India’s steadfast preference for American institutions.

CBSE and ICAI Join Hands to Boost Financial Literacy and Career Readiness Among Students

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digitalLEARNING Network

November 23, 2024

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance financial literacy and promote commerce-based skill development among students. This collaboration, spearheaded by ICAI’s Committee on Career Counselling, aims to equip students with practical skills and knowledge in the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sectors, paving the way for improved employability and career opportunities.

Under the initiative, ICAI will contribute its expertise to develop course content, study materials, and training modules. It will also organise workshops, training sessions, and career counselling activities to raise awareness about career prospects in accountancy and related fields. A key focus of the partnership is to familiarise educators and students with the diverse opportunities available in the commerce sector.

Key Highlights of the Agreement

ICAI President CA Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal hailed the partnership, stating: “This MoU marks a pivotal step towards building a robust skill development ecosystem for students across India. By promoting commerce-based skill courses, we aim to equip students with industry-relevant competencies and bridge the gap between education and professional demands. This partnership will undoubtedly open new career pathways in accountancy and finance.”

The collaboration will also include awareness programmes targeting school principals, teachers, and management teams of CBSE-affiliated schools. These sessions will highlight the significance of BFSI-related skill courses in shaping students’ careers.

CBSE plans to roll out capacity-building initiatives to empower teachers and ensure they are equipped to deliver specialised commerce-related courses effectively.

Also Read: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Promotes Innovation through VISION Initiative

Expanding Education and Professional Development

Beyond this partnership, ICAI continues to foster academic excellence through collaborations with over 85 universities, colleges, and educational institutions. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between academic learning and the evolving demands of the global economy.

The Science Behind Anālakáṣhya

A Milestone in India’s Defence Self-Reliance

Transforming Modern Warfare

A Proud Collaboration

Quantum Communication Milestones

Pioneering Free-Space Technology with Indigenous Innovation

Advancing India’s Quantum Landscape

What is the Jobs at Your Doorstep Report?

India’s Path to Economic Empowerment

India’s Dominance in Graduate and Professional Training

Remarks from U.S. and Indian Representatives

Broader Implications of Growth

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