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.

Delhi Govt Plans AI Labs to Boost Technological Learning in Schools

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December 13, 2024

The Delhi government has invited proposals from qualified agencies to set up Artificial Intelligence (AI) labs in selected schools across the city. The initiative, announced by the Directorate of Education (DoE), is designed to promote technological innovation and equip students with practical knowledge of AI concepts.

The official notification outlines the primary objectives of these labs, which include fostering advanced learning in AI and providing students with hands-on experience in technologies like machine learning, data analysis, coding, and robotics. Each lab will be a dedicated learning space featuring state-of-the-art hardware and software to support practical exploration and skill development.

Interested agencies have been requested to present their proposals, detailing the infrastructure, features, functionalities, training modules, and implementation strategies of their AI Lab setups. Demonstrations are a crucial part of the selection process, allowing the Directorate to evaluate the operational feasibility and potential impact of these labs on students.

“Qualified agencies are invited to submit their proposals along with a demonstration showcasing their AI Lab setup and capabilities,” the Directorate of Education stated in its notification.

The deadline for submitting proposals and demonstrations to the office of the Joint Director (IT), Directorate of Education, GNCID, is seven days from the notice’s publication. The evaluation process will prioritize comprehensive demonstrations that clearly outline the approach to establishing and managing these AI Labs in schools.

This move aligns with the Delhi government’s broader efforts to integrate cutting-edge technology into the education system and prepare students for future opportunities in AI-driven industries. By equipping schools with such facilities, the government aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, fostering a generation of innovators and tech-savvy professionals.

Also Read: West Bengal to Establish Rabindranath Tagore and Ramakrishna Paramhansa Universities to Boost Higher Education

The introduction of AI Labs in schools marks a significant step toward modernising the education landscape, offering students the tools and exposure necessary to thrive in a technology-driven world.

West Bengal to Launch Rabindranath Tagore and Ramakrishna Paramhansa Universities

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December 13, 2024

Rabindranath Tagore and Ramakrishna Paramhansa

The West Bengal Assembly has approved the establishment of two new privately-owned universities: Rabindranath Tagore University in Dhaniakhali, Hooghly, and Ramakrishna Paramhansa University in Agarpara, North 24-Parganas. This legislative move will increase the total number of universities in the state to 44, including both private and state-aided institutions. Currently, West Bengal hosts 14 private and 28 state universities. This move not only expands the state’s educational infrastructure but also honors the legacies of two of Bengal’s most revered cultural figures.

Rabindranath Tagore University will be managed by the Kalipada Saha Memorial Trust, while Ramakrishna Paramhansa University will be promoted by the Ramakrishna Vivekananda Mission. Government approval is anticipated soon, clearing the way for construction to begin.

In addition to these two universities, the Bhawanipore Gujarati Education Society College (BESC) will be upgraded to university status, further strengthening the state’s higher education network. The Bhawanipore Global University will be set up in Tollygunge, on three acres of land, marking the first private university within the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) limits.

List of private universities in West Bengal in the order of their establishment:

University	Year of Establishment
Techno India University	2012
Adamas University	2014
Seacom Skills University	2014
JIS University	2014
Amity University	2015
University of Engineering and Management (UEM)	2015
The Neotia University	2015
Brainware University	2016
St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata	2017
Sister Nivedita University	2018
Swami Vivekananda University	2019

During the Assembly session, Education Minister Bratya Basu highlighted the transformation of West Bengal’s higher education sector, noting that the state had only 11 state-funded universities before 2011. Over the past 13 years under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership, the number has expanded significantly to 44, reflecting a focus on improving educational infrastructure.

25% reservation for West Bengal students

The newly approved legislation also mandates a 25% reservation for students from West Bengal, a 5% quota for economically disadvantaged students on scholarships, and a 50% reservation for local candidates in non-teaching roles. These measures aim to ensure greater accessibility and opportunities for local communities.

Also Read: India Becomes Global Leader in Online Learning with AI and Cybersecurity as Top Choices

In addition to offering standard academic programmes, the new universities will emphasise specialised fields to align with emerging market demands. Proposed courses include vocational studies, hospitality, fashion technology, food and nutrition, and business-oriented disciplines such as MCA, BCA, and BBA.

India Becomes Global Leader in Online Learning with AI and Cybersecurity as Top Choices

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December 12, 2024

India has emerged as a global hub for online learning in 2024, surpassing Europe in the number of learners on Coursera, as per data from the platform. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have become focal points, with 60% of India’s most popular courses this year centered on these technologies.

Generative AI (GenAI) witnessed unprecedented growth, with enrollments in India quadrupling compared to 2023, reaching 1.1 million—the highest globally. This surge placed India ahead of the US in GenAI enrollments. Coursera highlighted this trend, noting that learners in India enrolled in GenAI content every minute on average, compared to every three minutes in the previous year.

Most Popular GenAI Courses in India

The top 10 GenAI courses reflect a shift from foundational knowledge to practical workplace applications, underscoring the growing demand for operational expertise. These include:

Generative AI for Everyone by DeepLearning.AI
Introduction to Generative AI by Google Cloud
Google AI Essentials by Google
Generative AI with Large Language Models by DeepLearning.AI and AWS
Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT by Vanderbilt University
Generative AI: Introduction and Applications by IBM
Generative AI: Prompt Engineering Basics by IBM
ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers by DeepLearning.AI
ChatGPT Advanced Data Analysis by Vanderbilt University
Introduction to Large Language Models by Google Cloud

Broader Learning Trends

While AI dominated, courses in finance, project management, and data analytics remained popular among Indian learners. Entry-level Professional Certificates, which cater to individuals without prior experience, saw significant adoption. Programs like Google Data Analytics, IBM Data Science, Google UX Design, and Google Project Management aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and were among the top choices.

India’s Top 10 Courses in 2024

Among all available courses, the following gained the most traction in India:

AI For Everyone by DeepLearning.AI
Generative AI for Everyone by DeepLearning.AI
Python for Data Science, AI & Development by IBM
Introduction to Generative AI by Google Cloud
Foundations: Data, Data, Everywhere by Google
Foundations of Cybersecurity by Google
Supervised Machine Learning: Regression and Classification by Stanford University & DeepLearning.AI
Financial Markets by Yale University
Google AI Essentials by Google
Foundations of Project Management by Google

Also Read: NLSIU Bengaluru Breaks New Ground with Liberal Arts BA (Hons) Programme

Coursera’s Job Skills Report 2025 further highlighted the demand for GenAI skills, followed closely by Cybersecurity, Risk Management, and HR Technology, showcasing India’s readiness to embrace a future shaped by technological innovation.

NLSIU Bengaluru Breaks New Ground with Liberal Arts BA (Hons) Programme

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December 12, 2024

The National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru, India’s first National Law University, is set to introduce a three-year BA (Hons) programme in 2025, signaling its foray into liberal arts education. This marks a significant step in the institution’s evolution toward becoming a multidisciplinary university.

Renowned for pioneering legal education in India with its integrated five-year BA LLB (Hons) programme in 1987, NLSIU is now leveraging its 35 years of expertise in social sciences and humanities to offer a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum.

Vice Chancellor Sudhir Krishnaswamy emphasised the professional focus of the new programme, describing it as a “terminal degree” designed to prepare students for diverse career paths. “We are very clear in our minds as we start that the BA degree is the only degree that a student will need,” he said.

The course will cover a broad spectrum of contemporary fields, including artificial intelligence, business consulting, digital journalism, creative writing, and policy advocacy. It also offers opportunities for students to study Indian languages and engage in annual internships.

In line with the University Grants Commission’s 2022 guidelines, high-performing students can opt for an additional fourth year to earn a BA (Hons with Research) degree. This advanced option includes a 20,000-word dissertation based on original research.

Admissions and Eligibility

The programme is open to students who have completed their 10+2 or equivalent. General category applicants must have a minimum of 55% marks, while SC/ST candidates need 45%. Admissions will be determined through the NLSAT-BA, an all-India written exam scheduled for April 27, 2025.

The inaugural batch will be capped at 60 students, with applications opening in January 2025. The final admission list will be published in May, and classes will commence on July 1, 2025.

Also Read: University of Southampton to Open First Indian Campus at International Tech Park, Gurgaon

A Multidisciplinary Approach

NLSIU Bengaluru, BA (Hons) programme reflects its commitment to multidisciplinary education, blending liberal arts with practical learning experiences. With this initiative, the university aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world, while building on its legacy of academic excellence.

University of Southampton to Open First Indian Campus at International Tech Park, Gurgaon

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December 12, 2024

The University of Southampton, Delhi, has officially selected Gurgaon’s International Tech Park as the site for its inaugural Indian campus. The facility, currently under development, is slated for completion by April 2025, with the first batch of students commencing classes in August 2025.

“The new campus will bring world-class education, research, and enterprise opportunities to India, leveraging the state-of-the-art infrastructure at International Tech Park,” the university announced in an official statement.

Strategic Location and Futuristic Design

Explaining the decision to establish the campus in Gurgaon, Professor Andrew Atherton, Vice-President of International and Engagement at the University of Southampton, highlighted the city’s status as a leading hub for business, technology, and innovation in India.

“The International Tech Park offers an ideal location, surrounded by cutting-edge industries and dynamic career opportunities. The campus’s futuristic design will foster creativity and collaboration, with facilities that promote both academic excellence and student well-being. This environment will empower students to not only receive world-class education but also gain practical skills and industry connections essential for their careers,” Atherton stated.

The University of Southampton will feature a range of modern amenities, including a student hub, collaboration areas, IT labs, a large library, private study spaces, and a dedicated research zone to encourage academic and student collaboration.

World-Class Facilities and Sustainability

Spread over 60 acres, the campus at International Tech Park will be IGBC LEED Platinum pre-certified and designed by the globally renowned architectural firm Morphogenesis. It will integrate sustainable practices and accessibility features, ensuring an inclusive learning environment.

Students will also benefit from access to on-site facilities such as fitness centres, food halls, and sports zones, including basketball and tennis courts. A cricket pitch is under development, and nearby amenities like golf courses and equestrian centres further enhance the student experience.

Oxford International will serve as an operational partner, ensuring the same high standards of learning and employability that students experience at the university’s UK campus.

Academic Offerings and Admissions

Initially, the campus will offer undergraduate programs in Computer Science, Business Management, Economics, and Accounts and Finance, along with postgraduate programs in International Management and Finance. Additional programs in emerging fields will be introduced annually.

Students graduating from the Gurgaon campus will receive the same degree as those studying in Southampton, UK.

Also Read: CUET-UG 2025 Goes Fully Online with Flexible Subject Choices; Check Details

The first application round for August 2025 entry concluded on November 29, with results expected by mid-January 2025. Two more admissions rounds are planned. The university waived the Rs 5,000 application fee for the initial round, and further details on scholarships and student accommodations will be announced soon.

Key Changes in XAT 2025

Most Popular GenAI Courses in India

Broader Learning Trends

India’s Top 10 Courses in 2024

Admissions and Eligibility

A Multidisciplinary Approach

Strategic Location and Futuristic Design

World-Class Facilities and Sustainability

Academic Offerings and Admissions

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