Kerala Introduces Menstrual Leave and Saturday Holidays for Female ITI Students

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November 30, 2024

The Kerala government has taken a progressive step by introducing a monthly menstrual leave policy for female students enrolled in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).

Under this policy, female trainees will receive two days of menstrual leave each month. This initiative recognizes the physically demanding nature of skill-training programs, including those in traditionally labor-intensive trades where women are excelling.

“In today’s era, women are active in every field, including some of the most physically demanding skill-training trades. Taking these factors into account, the government has decided to grant two days of menstrual leave each month for female trainees in ITIs,” announced General Education Minister V. Sivankutty.

This policy builds on Kerala’s earlier decision to offer menstrual leave to female students across universities under the higher education department, showcasing the state’s commitment to student welfare. With over 100 ITIs across Kerala set to implement the policy, a large number of female students are expected to benefit from this supportive measure.

Also Read :- UGC Unveils New Framework for Postgraduate Programmes under NEP 2020

Saturday Holidays for ITI Students

In addition to menstrual leave, the Kerala government has designated Saturdays as holidays for all ITI students. To accommodate this change without disrupting training schedules, adjustments have been made to the shift timings:

First Shift: 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Second Shift: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM

While Saturdays are officially non-working days, students can utilize the day for extracurricular activities, shop-floor training, or short-term courses if they choose.

These initiatives reflect Kerala’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and flexible learning environment for ITI students, especially women while maintaining the quality of education and skill training.

UGC Unveils New Framework for Postgraduate Programmes under NEP 2020

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November 29, 2024

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a comprehensive curriculum and credit framework for Postgraduate (PG) programmes as part of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This initiative seeks to modernise postgraduate education in India, offering students diverse and flexible learning pathways tailored to their academic and professional aspirations.

Key Highlights of the New Framework:

Flexible Structures for PG Programmes

The revised framework accommodates varying educational backgrounds, providing:

2-year PG programmes for students with a 3-year Bachelor’s degree, with the final year dedicated to research.
1-year PG programmes for students with a 4-year Bachelor’s degree.
5-year integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s programmes, blending undergraduate and postgraduate studies into a seamless academic journey.

Curriculum for Contemporary Needs

The updated curriculum emphasises core and interdisciplinary areas such as Machine Learning, “AI + X,” healthcare, law, and other professional domains. These additions align with global academic trends, equipping students with skills relevant to emerging industries.

Credit System and Mobility

Postgraduate degrees now correspond to Levels 6, 6.5, and 7 of the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF), with well-defined learning outcomes. The framework encourages flexibility through credit transfers, multiple entry and exit points, and adherence to the Academic Bank of Credit system for seamless credit accumulation.

Encouraging Cross-Disciplinary and Interest-Driven Learning

Students can tailor their academic journey by selecting courses across disciplines, fostering holistic growth. Eligibility for PG programmes will depend on undergraduate performance and entrance exams, ensuring alignment with the student’s academic focus and career goals.

Expansion of Online Learning

Acknowledging the growing demand for flexible education, the framework expands online learning opportunities. Students can access quality education from anywhere and simultaneously enroll in multiple degree programmes, enabling them to diversify their expertise and design personalised academic pathways.

Recognition of Work Experience as Academic Credit

A groundbreaking feature of the framework is the creditisation of professional work experience. Relevant industry experience can be converted into academic credits, reducing the time required to complete PG programmes and bridging the gap between practical skills and academic qualifications.

Blended Learning and Specialisation Opportunities

Advanced courses (400–499 levels) offer a mix of practical and theoretical training for students consolidating foundational knowledge. For those pursuing specialised research, 500–599 level courses facilitate innovation and critical thinking, essential in today’s competitive job market.

Also Read: Six Leading Australian Universities Consider Gurugram Campus for Undergraduate Programs

Academic Integrity and Quality Assurance

The framework ensures rigorous academic standards through continuous assessment, anti-plagiarism measures, and robust grading systems. The Academic Bank of Credit supports vertical and horizontal mobility, empowering students to transition across disciplines or specialisations seamlessly.

This transformative framework under NEP 2020 represents a forward-thinking approach to postgraduate education, equipping learners with the tools and opportunities needed to thrive in an evolving academic and professional landscape.

Six Leading Australian Universities Consider Gurugram Campus for Undergraduate Programs

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November 28, 2024

A consortium of six premier Australian universities is exploring the establishment of a campus in Gurugram to offer undergraduate programs, according to a statement by the Haryana government. The delegation, led by Deputy High Commissioner of the Australian High Commission Nick McCaffrey, met with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to discuss the initiative.

The visiting delegation included Mathew Johnston, Minister Counsellor for Education and Research at the Australian High Commission; Professor Simon Biggs, Chair of the Innovative Research Universities (IRU) and Vice-Chancellor and President of James Cook University; along with representatives from other member universities of the consortium.

Earlier this year, the IRU announced Professor Simon Biggs as its Chair for 2024-2025, underscoring the group’s commitment to advancing international education partnerships.

Haryana’s Support for the Initiative

Chief Minister Saini welcomed the proposal and assured the delegation of the Haryana government’s full cooperation. He offered state support, including access to existing infrastructure for the proposed campus and facilitation of essential resources.

An MoU will soon formalize this collaboration, with Haryana’s Foreign Cooperation Department coordinating the initiative based on the requirements of the Australian universities.

Bringing Global Education Home

The proposed campus would allow Indian students, especially those from Haryana, to pursue undergraduate degrees from Australian universities without the need to travel abroad. Graduates would receive globally recognized certifications from the respective Australian institutions, enhancing their career prospects both locally and internationally.

“This initiative will significantly reduce the financial burden on students by eliminating the costs associated with overseas education, including hefty tuition fees and living expenses,” the government statement noted.

The campus is expected to launch four-year integrated programs in disciplines such as software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), financial technology, tourism and hospitality, and sports management. Course offerings will be expanded over time to address the evolving demands of the state and its workforce.

Strengthening India-Australia Ties

Deputy High Commissioner Nick McCaffrey highlighted the growing collaboration between India and Australia since 2014, facilitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “Education remains the largest area of cooperation, opening new avenues for mutual growth and understanding,” he said.

The meeting also coincided with Haryana’s ongoing celebrations for the International Gita Mahotsav. The chief minister gifted copies of the Bhagavad Gita to the visiting delegation as a token of respect.

Also Read: IIT Kanpur Unveils ‘Anālakṣhya’, India’s Breakthrough in Radar-Evading Stealth Technology

Leaders in Attendance

The meeting was attended by Haryana Chief Secretary Vivek Joshi; Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Rajesh Khullar; Principal Secretary of the Higher Education Department, D. Suresh; Adviser to the Foreign Cooperation Department, Pawan Chaudhary; and Professor Rajbir Lohan, Vice-Chancellor of Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak.

This initiative marks a significant step in Haryana’s efforts to enhance global partnerships in education while making international-quality programs accessible to its students.

IIT Kanpur Unveils ‘Anālakṣhya’, India’s Breakthrough in Radar-Evading Stealth Technology

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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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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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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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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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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.

Saturday Holidays for ITI Students

Key Highlights of the New Framework:

Flexible Structures for PG Programmes

Curriculum for Contemporary Needs

Credit System and Mobility

Encouraging Cross-Disciplinary and Interest-Driven Learning

Expansion of Online Learning

Recognition of Work Experience as Academic Credit

Blended Learning and Specialisation Opportunities

Academic Integrity and Quality Assurance

Haryana’s Support for the Initiative

Bringing Global Education Home

Strengthening India-Australia Ties

Leaders in Attendance

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

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