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IIT Bombay Launches Innovative BTech in IEOR

The Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT Bombay) has introduced a new BTech program in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research (IEOR) starting this academic year. This innovative course integrates applied mathematics, computing, technology, and management to address real-world challenges through effective decision-making models.

This BTech program, encompassing the core areas of Operations Research (OR) and Industrial Engineering (IE), is ideal for students interested in data science, computing, and decision analysis. OR examines complex human-technical systems and their structures, utilising mathematical and decision models such as optimisation, simulation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. These models address planning, scheduling, and control issues across various fields. IE focuses on designing, analysing, improving, and managing industrial and service systems to sustainably enhance their efficiency and effectiveness.

The BTech IEOR curriculum aims to provide a solid foundation in applied mathematics and computing while emphasising practical problem-solving skills. The program includes core courses in basic sciences (mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology), humanities and social sciences (economics, design thinking, HASMED), and engineering and technology (computer programming, Makerspace). These foundational courses are generally completed in the first and second years.

The program starts with “Introduction to IE and OR” (IE101) in the first semester, covering essential IEOR themes and developing problem-solving and systems-thinking skills. Other core courses include probability and statistics, optimisation (linear and non-linear), data structures and algorithms, control systems, artificial intelligence/machine learning, stochastic processes, simulation, risk and uncertainty, industrial systems, operations analysis, and logistics and supply chain management. Most of these courses are scheduled for the second year, with some extending into the third year. Probability and statistics are introduced in the second semester to provide a foundation for many decision models.

The program includes six core labs to complement the coursework: four computational labs focusing on algorithms and programming, optimisation, data analytics and AI/ML, and simulation, and two hardware labs dedicated to industrial engineering and digital enterprise systems. The computational labs will enhance modelling and analysis skills using various tools, while the hardware labs will teach data collection methods and modern tools, including IoT and AR/VR experiences.

Also read: Kaspersky, IIT Bombay signs MoU to strengthen cybersecurity education and research

Students can explore additional subjects through the department and STEM electives and may pursue an Honors degree in IEOR by completing extra courses and a capstone project. Minors in other disciplines are also available.

Graduates of the IEOR program can pursue careers in diverse sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, business analytics, e-commerce, production, agriculture, financial services, healthcare, security, information and telecommunications, and more. The program aligns with India’s initiatives like Make in India, Gati Shakti, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The skills acquired are highly valued in industries, technology innovation centres, research labs, and academia. IEOR graduates are equipped to analyse underlying processes and offer forward-looking solutions, distinguishing them in data science roles. The program also prepares graduates for advanced studies such as Master’s, MBA, or PhD programs at top global institutions.

 

Bridging the Internship Gap with New Programs

India is poised to achieve remarkable growth in the rapidly evolving digital era, outpacing the economies of its neighbouring nations. With this in mind, we are thrilled about the new measures announced in the 2024–25 interim budget to support education, employment, and skill development.

The government has allocated Rs 1.48 lakh crore for these important areas, showing a strong commitment to improving opportunities for our youth. One highlight is the plan to provide internships for one crore young people in 500 top companies. Each intern will receive a stipend of Rs 5,000 and a one-time assistance of Rs 6,000. This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain valuable work experience. Companies will fund these internships through CSR funds, creating a great partnership between the public and private sectors.

A new centrally funded scheme will also be launched in partnership with state governments and companies to train around 20 lakh youth over five years. As part of this initiative, 1,000 ITIs will be updated, with training content and design linked to industry skill requirements.

The Education Ministry’s budget has increased by 6.8%, now totalling Rs 1,20,627.87 crore, up from Rs 1,12,899.47 crore last year. This extra funding will help improve nationwide schools, colleges, and educational programs. Another important announcement is the support for loans up to Rs 10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions. This will make it easier for students to afford college and university, opening doors to better careers.

Views expressed by: Rohan Rai, CEO and Co-Founder, Edupull

Bridging the Gap: Integrating Skills into India’s Education System

A decade after spending a considerable amount of money since the setting up of the National Skill Development Mission and the National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in 2015, we have not seen the mainstreaming of skills, making it an integral part of our education system. This artificial barrier between education and skills needs to be removed. One effective way of doing this is to acquire appropriate job/vocational skills, which are essential to what we teach in schools and higher educational institutions. The skills imparted must also be strongly tethered to the job market, giving more credibility to skilling institutions. The government could even consider providing financial subsidies to acquire high-end skills, which has proven very effective; for example, schemes like FAME are giving a big push to the electric mobility sector.

Views expressed by: Abhimanyu Saxena, Co-Founder, InterviewBit and Scaler

Budget 2024-25 Lauded by Dharmendra Pradhan in Drive for India’s 2047 Goals

Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan has praised the 2024-25 Budget, calling it a monumental step towards realising India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. The budget announcement, which prioritises education, skilling, employment, research, and innovation, was made public by Delhi’s Press Information Bureau (PIB) last evening.

Pradhan expressed deep appreciation for the concerted efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman focused on enhancing the quality of life and economic opportunities for India’s “Garib, Mahila, Yuva, and Annadata.” According to the Education Minister, this budget is “truly a people-oriented, growth-inducing, inclusive, and progressive” step forward.

Emphasising the strategic allocation of funds, Pradhan highlighted the significant ₹1.48 lakh crore earmarked for education, employment, and skilling. This includes a comprehensive Prime Minister’s Package to revolutionise the skilling and apprenticeship ecosystem, provide skill development and internship opportunities to 1 crore youth, and offer employment-linked incentives across various sectors.

Additionally, the budget has allocated funds to facilitate the provision of Model Skill Loans and education loans, which are expected to empower over 25,000 students annually with more accessible financial support for higher education.

Regarding specific allocations, the Department of School Education & Literacy has received its highest budget of ₹73,498 crore for FY 2024-25, marking a 19.56% increase from the previous fiscal year. This includes enhanced allocations for flagship schemes like Samagra Shiksha, PM-POSHAN, and PM-SHRI.

The Department of Higher Education also sees a substantial increase, with a total allocation of ₹47,619.77 crore. This includes increases across major educational bodies and schemes, such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), alongside the newly announced Centres of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence.

Pradhan asserted that these “comprehensive and concrete measures” are set to fulfil the aspirations of the Indian youth by significantly enhancing the education landscape, thus ensuring India’s position as a global hub for talent, skills, and innovative solutions.

With this budget, the government aims to bolster socio-economic conditions, fuel green growth, strengthen social justice, improve the business climate, and accelerate economic growth, propelling India towards its goal of being a developed nation by its centenary year of independence.

Investing in the Future with Rs 1.48 Lakh Crore for Education and Skill Development

The government’s move to launch a scheme to provide internship opportunities in 500 top companies to 1 crore youngsters in the next five years will go a long way in creating new jobs in the country. This will also enable the youngsters to upskill themselves and move up the value chain. Acquiring the requisite skills needed for the industry is most important, and this move to provide internships will accelerate that process.

The finance minister has also said that the government will allocate Rs.1.48 lakh crore for the education sector, jobs and skill development. This is a tremendously encouraging move.
The FM has also announced financial support for loans up to Rs.10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions. This measure will encourage students to continue their education in India, creating a situation where their technical skills can be utilised.

Views expressed by: Raj Mruthyunjayappa, Chairman and CEO, Talisma Corporation

EdTech’s Crucial Role in India’s Skilling and Employment Drive

The Finance Ministry’s focus on youth development, job creation and the skilling of millions of young learners will establish a robust foundation for India’s economic strength and position it as a global hub for skills. The comprehensive package of schemes, with an estimated cost of Rs. 2 lakh crores, aims to facilitate employment and skilling initiatives, significantly contributing to job creation and skill enhancement across various candidate categories in the country. The direct benefit transfer of one month’s salary to new entrants in the workforce will help expand the base of formal employment, benefiting 2.1 lakh young people in India.

Higher education has a crucial role in executing these next-generation initiatives. EdTech platforms, particularly, have proven to be key differentiators in democratising education through innovative and cutting-edge technology. They are significantly upskilling Indian youth to enhance employability and contribute to executive learning, thereby creating a substantial upskilled workforce to power the economy. We look forward to Edtech’s continued participation in India’s growth narrative.

Views expressed by: Anish Srikrishna, CEO, TimesPro

Education Budget 2024 Highlights: Major Push for Education, Employment, and Skilling

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Budget 2024 today, July 23, 2024, marking the first budget of the BJP-led NDA after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his third term. This year, all eyes were on the Central Government’s plan to meet the rising education sector demands. The budget emphasises skill-based learning, technological advancements, substantial reforms, and increased investments in school education.

From addressing infrastructural needs to enhancing capabilities, the budget promises to shape a more inclusive and robust educational system. Experts and educators are optimistic that the government will prioritise education spending and implement policies fostering innovation, accessibility, and quality in schools.

Employment Linked Incentive Schemes

The Finance Minister announced three schemes under the Prime Minister’s package to boost employment and skilling through ‘Employment Linked Incentives’. These schemes focus on recognising first-time employees and providing support to both employees and employers:

Scheme 1: ‘First Timers’

  • Provides one month’s wage to all new formal sector employees.
  • Direct benefit transfer of one month’s salary, in three instalments, up to ₹15,000.
  • Eligibility for employees earning up to ₹1 lakh per month.

Scheme 2: ‘Job Creation in Manufacturing’

  • Incentivises additional employment in manufacturing linked to first-time employees.
  • Provides incentives for EPFO contributions in the first four years of employment.

Scheme 3: ‘Support to Employers’

  • Covers additional employment in all sectors.
  • The government reimburses employers up to ₹3,000 per month for two years for each additional employee earning up to ₹1 lakh per month.

Key Highlights of the Education Budget 2024

Total Allocation: ₹1.48 Lakh Crore

The budget allocation for education, employment, and skilling has increased by 30% to ₹1.48 lakh crore. This significant investment aims to meet the growing demands of the sector.

Education Loans and E-Vouchers

  • Financial support for loans up to ₹10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions.
  • E-vouchers are issued to 1 lakh students annually with a 3% interest subvention.

Skilling and Training Initiatives

  • Upgrading 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) using a hub-and-spoke model, aligning course content with industry needs.
  • We revised the Model Skill Loan Scheme to offer loans up to ₹7.5 lakh with a government-backed guarantee for 25,000 students annually.
  • Skilling 20 lakh youths over the next five years.

Internship Opportunities

A new internship scheme will provide opportunities for one crore youths in over 500 top firms, offering 12-month exposure to real-life business environments.

Additional Announcements

Support for Working Women

Plans to set up working women’s hostels to promote higher participation of women in the workforce through supportive facilities like hostels and crèches.

National Cooperation Policy

The announcement of a National Cooperation Policy aimed at overall development.

 

Union Budget 2024 Live: Nirmala Sitharaman Takes the Floor for Her Record-Breaking Seventh Budget Address in Lok Sabha

Nirmala Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman commenced the presentation of her seventh consecutive Union Budget 2024-25 today, marking a historic milestone as the first finance minister to achieve this feat. Surpassing former Prime Minister Morarji Desai’s record of six consecutive budgets from 1959-64, Sitharaman’s Budget also marks the first comprehensive financial plan under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government’s third consecutive term.

The Union Budget, an annual financial statement from the central government, details proposed expenditures and revenues for the upcoming fiscal year (FY25) spanning April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. It highlights the government’s achievements from the past year and sets forth objectives and allocations for the year ahead, addressing policy needs and financial planning.

The Budget Session of Parliament commenced on July 22, with Sitharaman presenting the 2024 Economic Survey a day earlier. Scheduled for 16 sittings over 22 days, the session is anticipated to conclude on August 12.

FM Sitharaman on nine important priorities

The finance minister announced that the government has identified nine priority areas for focused development. These nine priorities are:

  • Agriculture
  • Employment
  • Social justice
  • Manufacturing
  • Urban development,
  • Energy
  • Infrastructure
  • Research and development
  • Next-generation reforms

23 Jul 2024, 11:24 AM IST

During the Budget 2024 presentation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced, “The government will provide financial support for education loans up to ₹10 lakhs for higher education in domestic institutions.”

23 Jul 2024, 11:26 AM IST

Total Budget Allocation: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced an allocation of ₹1.48 lakh crore specifically for initiatives targeting education, employment, and skills as part of the Union Budget for 2024-25.

23 Jul 2024, 11:29 AM IST

The Union Budget 2024-25 proposes a revision of the Model Skill Loan Scheme to support 25,000 students annually. E-vouchers for loans up to ₹10 lakhs for higher education in domestic institutions will be provided directly to 1 lakh students each year, offering an annual interest subvention of 3% on the loan amount.

23 Jul 2024, 11:31 AM IST
A new centrally sponsored scheme aims to skill 20 lakh youth over the next five years. Approximately 1,000 ITIs will be upgraded using a hub-and-spoke arrangement, with course content tailored to meet the needs of the industry, particularly in emerging sectors.

23 Jul 2024, 11:36 AM IST
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the government will focus on increasing women’s participation in the workforce by setting up hostels and forming partnerships to organise women-specific skilling programs.

23 July 2024 12:10 PM IST
₹2 lakh crore allocated to employ 4.1 crore youth over the next 5 years 
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed creating employment for about 4.1 crore youth over the next five years, with an allocation of ₹2 lakh crore. Additionally, ₹1.48 lakh crore will be allocated for skilling citizens to generate job opportunities, with plans to skill 20 lakh youth over the same period. The budget also includes upgrading 1,000 industrial training institutes.

A one-time wage incentive for first-time employees across all sectors will be provided through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The government will also launch internship opportunities for one crore youth in 500 companies over the next five years. Interns will receive a monthly allowance of ₹5,000 and exposure to real-life work environments, with companies covering training costs and 10% of the training expenses through CSR funds. This Budget focuses on employment, skilling, MSMEs, and the middle class.

23 July 2024 12:13 PM IST
Focus on Skilling Programs:

  • The government’s strategic plan to skill 20 lakh youth over the next five years.
  • Major upgrade of 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) to provide industry-relevant skills.
  • Introduction of new courses aimed at meeting emerging skill needs in various sectors.

Public-Private Synergy: How Budget 2024 Could Transform Education

Anticipations for the Union Budget 2024 in the education sector are centred around significant enhancements, notably through an increase in allocations for digital infrastructure. This would support a more robust integration of technology in education. Additionally, there is a strong call for the expansion of teacher training and upskilling programs, aimed at equipping educators with the necessary tools and skills to meet modern educational demands.

A pivotal aspect of the expected reforms includes fortifying public-private partnerships, which would leverage the strengths of both sectors to improve educational outcomes. Moreover, providing tax incentives for edtech startups is seen as essential to foster innovation and growth within this burgeoning sector.

Furthermore, a greater emphasis on vocational training and the development of employability skills is anticipated. Such initiatives are crucial for narrowing the skills gap in the workforce. By focusing on these areas, the budget aims to make education more accessible, equitable, and aligned with the needs of a future-driven economy, preparing students for the evolving job market.

Views expressed by: Naveen Kumar, CMO, Scontinent Technologies 

Investing in Knowledge: What to Expect from India’s Education Budget

Ritesh Chopra, AVP at Magic EdTech, provides expert predictions on the upcoming budget for India’s education sector. Drawing from his extensive experience, he forecasts key shifts in funding and initiatives that could shape the future of educational delivery in India, offering valuable insights for stakeholders.

Predictions for the Indian Education Sector Budget:

1. Increased Funding for Digital Education: With the ongoing emphasis on digital learning, there might be an increase in funding for digital infrastructure, online learning platforms, and digital literacy programs to bridge the digital divide.
2. Expansion of NEP 2020 Initiatives: Continued implementation and expansion of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 initiatives, including skill development, vocational training, and the introduction of new curriculums.
3. Focus on Teacher Training: Allocation for extensive teacher training programs to enhance the quality of education and ensure teachers are well-equipped with modern teaching methodologies.
4. Infrastructure Development: Increased investment in building and upgrading school infrastructure, especially in rural areas, to ensure all children have access to quality education facilities.
5. Support for Research and Higher Education: More funds for research and innovation in higher education institutions, promoting interdisciplinary studies, and enhancing the global competitiveness of Indian universities.
6. Scholarships and Financial Aid: Expansion of scholarship programs and financial aid to ensure that education is accessible to students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.
Value Adds Required for the Educational Sector
1. Focus on Early Childhood Education: Prioritize and fund early childhood education programs to ensure foundational learning for children from a young age.
2. Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to leverage resources, expertise, and innovative solutions for improving educational outcomes.
3. Inclusive Education: Develop and implement policies to support inclusive education for children with disabilities, ensuring they have equal opportunities and access to education. Internationally, we have WCAG guidelines – it’s time to start pondering over its implementation.
4. Mental Health and Well-being: Integrate mental health programs and counselling services in schools to support the overall well-being of students.
5. Emphasis on STEM Education: Promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, including coding and robotics, to prepare students for future job markets.
6. Global Competitiveness: Initiate programs to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian students, such as international exchange programs, collaborations with foreign universities, and exposure to global education standards.
These predictions and recommendations aim to address the immediate and long-term needs of the Indian education sector, fostering an environment that supports holistic development and prepares students for the future.

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