Day: February 11, 2025

Measuring the Pulse of Indian Education

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Education is not only the foundation upon which our civilization has been built, but it is also the architect of humanity’s future.”

~Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

Education has always been a key priority for the government and with the vision to make India a global education hub, the Union Budget 2025-26 introduces innovative initiatives. Focused on expanding medical seats, enhancing skilling infrastructure and growing IITs, these measures aim to provide more opportunities and equip youth with essential skills for the future.

Announcements for a Smarter, Inclusive India

  1. Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme: To provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education. This aims to help students understand their subjects better. 
  2. National Centres of Excellence for Skilling: Building on the July 2024 Budget, five National Centres of Excellence for skilling will be established with global partnerships to equip youth with skills. These centres will focus on curriculum design, trainer training, skills certification, and regular reviews.
  3. Expansion of Capacity in IITs: Additional infrastructure will be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students. Hostel and other infrastructure capacity at IIT, Patna will also be expanded. Total number of students in 23 IITs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years.  
  4. Centre of Excellence in AI for Education: A Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education will be set up with a total outlay of 500 crore.
  5. Expansion of Medical Education: The government had added almost 1.1 lakh UG and PG medical education seats in ten years, an increase of 130 per cent. In the next year, 10,000 additional seats will be added in medical colleges and hospitals, towards the goal of adding 75,000 seats in the next 5 years.

Inside India’s Education System

The Indian education system has undergone significant transformation over the years. Serving 24.8 crore students across 14.72 lakh schools, it is supported by a dedicated workforce of 98 lakh teachers, as reported by the UDISE+ (Unified District Information System for Education Plus 2023-24). Government schools form the backbone of the system, comprising 69% of the total, enrolling 50% of students and employing 51% of teachers. On the other hand, private schools make up 22.5% of institutions, catering to 32.6% of students and employing 38% of teachers. This growing structure reflects the dynamic changes in the Indian education landscape, paving the way for continuous improvements in enrollment and access over the years.

Enrollment Trends in India

The NEP 2020 aims for a 100% Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) by 2030. The GER is near universal at the primary (93 %) and the efforts are underway to bridge the gaps at the secondary (77.4 %) and higher secondary level (56.2 %), driving the nation closer to its vision of inclusive and equitable education for all. In the realm of higher education, India has seen a dramatic rise in student enrollment. The total number of students enrolled in higher education reached 4.33 crore in 2021-22, a 26.5% increase from 3.42 crore in 2014-15. The Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) for the 18-23 age group also rose from 23.7% to 28.4% in the same period.

Women’s participation in higher education has also witnessed significant growth, with female enrollment rising from 1.57 crore in 2014-15 to 2.07 crore in 2021-22, marking a 32% increase. This progress is especially evident in fields like Medical Science, Social Science, and Arts, where women are now leading the charge in enrollment.

Decline in Dropout Rate


However, challenges still persist and the dropout rate remains a critical concern. While there has been a steady decline in dropout rates. School dropout rates have steadily declined in recent years, standing at 1.9 per cent for primary, 5.2 per cent for upper primary and 14.1 per cent for secondary levels. According to AISHE report the dropout rate at the secondary level has also decreased significantly from 21% in 2013-14 to 13% in 2021-22.

Transforming India’s Education Landscape

Over the years, India has seen a remarkable transformation in its higher education ecosystem. The number of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) has grown significantly, increasing by 13.8% from 51,534 in 2014-15 to 58,643 in 2022-23. This expansion reflects the country’s commitment to making higher education more accessible and diverse.

  • Growth in Medical Education and Workforce:  Medical Colleges grew from 499 in FY19 to 780 in FY25.
  • Candidates aspiring to study MBBS increased from 16 lakh in 2019 to 24 lakh in 2024.
  • MBBS Seats increased from 70,012 in FY19 to 1,18,137 in FY25.
  • Postgraduate Medical Seats grew from 39,583 in FY19 to 73,157 in FY25.

  • Doctors Available: 13.86 lakh registered practitioners as of July 2024, with a current ratio of 1:1263 per person. The WHO norm of 1:1000 could be met by 2030 with an annual increase of 50,000 doctors.
  • Growth of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): The number of IITs increased from 16 in 2014 to 23 in 2023.
  • Growth of Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs):The number of IIMs grew from 13 in 2014 to 20 in 2023.
  • Expansion of Universities:The number of Universities grew from 723 in 2014 to 1,213 in 2024, marking a 59.6% increase.
  • Increase in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs): Total HEIs increased by 13.8%, from 51,534 in 2014-15 to 58,643 in 2022-23.

Progress in Basic Facilities

Education infrastructure has significantly improved, with a rise in the number of higher education institutions. Key areas like medical check-ups, sanitation, and ICT availability have also seen substantial upgrades, highlighting positive progress in school facilities to enhance the quality of education. From 2019-20 to 2023-24, there have been notable improvements in school infrastructure. The percentage of schools with girls’ toilets increased slightly from 96.9% to 97.2%, while access to libraries/reading rooms rose from 84.1% to 89%.  The availability of electricity improved from 83.4% to 91.8%, and computers in schools increased from 38.5% to 57.2%. Additionally, internet access grew significantly from 22.3% to 53.9%, marking a positive shift toward better-equipped schools.

Conclusion

The education sector in India is being strengthened through various government initiatives aligned with NEP 2020. Programs like Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, PM SHRI (Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India) and PM POSHAN (Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman) are driving improvements in infrastructure, teacher training and learning outcomes. The Economic Survey highlights the progress and the government’s commitment to making education more inclusive and accessible.

References

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UGC discontinues CARE Journal Listing, suggests new parameters to ensure quality, transparency, and relevance

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The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially announced the discontinuation of its UGC-Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics (CARE) journal listing. This significant shift marks a transition toward a more decentralized and flexible framework for evaluating academic journals.

Introduction of Suggestive Parameters for Journal Selection

In lieu of the UGC-CARE list, the UGC has developed a set of suggestive parameters aimed at guiding faculty members and students in selecting credible and peer-reviewed academic journals for research and publication. These parameters were meticulously crafted by a panel of experts and academicians and have now been made publicly available for feedback. Stakeholders, including Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) and faculty members, are invited to share their opinions by February 25, 2025, via email at journal@ugc.gov.in.

This decision follows the recommendations made by an expert committee and was formalized during the UGC’s 584th meeting on October 3, 2024. The new guidelines are intended to replace the previous CARE system outlined in the Public Notice dated November 28, 2018.

Focus on High-Quality Research and Institutional Review Mechanisms

To foster high-quality research, HEIs are encouraged to adopt these suggestive parameters and customize them based on their academic requirements. The UGC recommends that institutions establish internal review committees to ensure compliance with these evolving quality benchmarks. This move aims to empower institutions to take ownership of journal evaluation processes while promoting scholarly excellence.

Rationale Behind Discontinuing the UGC-CARE List

Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman of the UGC, explained that the UGC-CARE list was initially introduced in 2018 to address concerns over the proliferation of predatory journals and to ensure that only reputable publications were recognized for faculty selections, promotions, and research funding applications. However, the system faced numerous challenges, including:

  • Over-centralization and bureaucratic delays in updating the journal list.
  • Lack of transparency in decision-making processes.
  • Exclusion of respected journals, particularly those in Indian languages, while less credible ones were included.
  • Pressure on researchers to publish exclusively in UGC-CARE listed journals.

NEP 2020 and the Shift Toward Decentralization

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 highlighted the need to reduce heavy regulation in academic publishing. In response, the UGC formed an expert committee in December 2023 to review the UGC-CARE scheme. Based on its recommendations, the UGC decided to discontinue the central list and encourage HEIs to develop their own robust mechanisms for evaluating journals.

“This new approach provides institutions with greater flexibility,” stated Prof. Kumar. “It allows them to develop models that align with academic norms and the specific needs of various disciplines. Researchers will no longer be bound by a centralized list of journals.”

Combating Predatory Journals and Protecting Academic Standards

Under the new system, HEIs will bear the responsibility for combating predatory journals by establishing credible evaluation mechanisms. This will help protect the academic reputation of institutions and maintain scholarly integrity. Experienced faculty members are expected to mentor younger researchers in identifying legitimate journals and avoiding predatory ones.

A Step Toward Academic Freedom and Autonomy

The discontinuation of the UGC-CARE list is seen as a step toward restoring academic freedom and institutional autonomy. “By transferring the responsibility for journal evaluation back to HEIs, the UGC has empowered institutions and researchers to make publication choices that best suit their disciplines and target audiences,” Prof. Kumar emphasized.

HEIs will also need to accommodate emerging and interdisciplinary fields by creating dynamic evaluation models that recognize journals beyond traditional indexing frameworks. This adaptability is crucial to addressing the rapidly evolving landscape of academic publishing.

Stakeholder Engagement and Feedback

The UGC encourages stakeholders to carefully review the proposed parameters and provide their feedback before the deadline. This inclusive approach aims to foster a collaborative environment for enhancing academic publishing standards.

For further information, stakeholders are advised to refer to the UGC’s official communications and actively participate in shaping the future of academic journal evaluation in India.

Navigating the Science Behind Herbal Remedies: Kratom and Its Uses

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In recent years, herbal remedies have gained widespread attention for their potential health benefits. Kratom, a tree native to Southeast Asia, has become a popular alternative in this category. Known for its stimulant-like and pain-relieving properties, Kratom has raised both interest and concern.

But, how exactly does Kratom work in the body? Can it offer real health benefits, or is it just a passing trend? In this blog, we will explore the science behind Kratom, its uses, and its potential effects on health.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom is a tropical tree found in Southeast Asia. It belongs to the coffee family and is used for its leaves. These leaves contain compounds that can have effects on the brain. People often consume Kratom in powder or capsule form.

The main compounds in Kratom are called alkaloids. Two important alkaloids are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These compounds interact with receptors in the brain. This interaction can help with pain, mood, and energy.

How Does Kratom Work in the Body?

Kratom affects the body by binding to opioid receptors. It can create effects similar to those of opioids but is not an opioid. When consumed, Kratom may produce mild pain relief and energy boosts.

Depending on the dose, Kratom can have either stimulant or sedative effects. At low doses, Kratom can increase alertness and focus. At higher doses, it may cause relaxation and pain relief. Kratom’s potential effects make it an appealing alternative for many people.

Health Benefits of Kratom

Kratom has several reported health benefits. Some people use it for pain relief. Others claim it helps reduce anxiety and depression. Kratom may also provide an energy boost, helping with daily tasks. There is evidence that Kratom can improve mood and boost motivation.

While these benefits are reported by users, more research is needed. Some people also combine Kratom with other herbal remedies like kava. A kratom + kava shot is sometimes used for a more balanced effect.

Risks and Side Effects of Kratom

Despite its benefits, Kratom also comes with risks. Some people experience nausea, dizziness, or constipation when using it. In higher doses, Kratom can lead to sedation and confusion.

Additionally, Kratom’s long-term effects are not fully understood. There have been reports of dependence and withdrawal symptoms. It is crucial to be cautious when using Kratom, especially in high doses. Always consult a healthcare provider before adding Kratom to your routine.

Is Kratom Safe to Use?

Kratom’s safety remains a topic of debate. While some users report positive experiences, others may face health issues. Its use can lead to side effects, particularly when not used correctly.

Kratom’s potential for addiction also raises concerns. Currently, the FDA does not regulate Kratom, which makes safety a concern. Some regions have banned Kratom due to safety worries. It is important to stay informed and cautious about Kratom use.

Understand Kratom and Its Uses

Kratom is an herbal remedy that shows both promise and risk. Its ability to offer pain relief and energy makes it appealing to many people. However, its safety is still uncertain, and more research is needed.

Using Kratom responsibly and understanding its potential effects is important. Before starting Kratom, consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s right for you.

Always remember to explore other articles on the blog for more insights on various topics!

From Manager to Visionary: How to Lead Business Transformation in Uncertain Times

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Picture this – you’re steering a ship in the middle of a storm. The winds are howling, the waves are unpredictable, and your crew looks to you for direction. In today’s volatile business environment, managers are facing a similar challenge. Economic fluctuations, rapid technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations have made traditional management styles obsolete. To survive and thrive, leaders must move beyond managing tasks – they must become visionaries who anticipate change, inspire innovation, and drive transformation.

Photo by Eva Bronzini on Pexels.com

So, how does one make this leap from manager to visionary? What skills and mindset shifts are required to navigate uncertain times successfully? This article explores the key strategies that can help leaders transform businesses while ensuring stability and long-term growth.

1.     Shift From Being Reactive to Being Proactive

Traditional managers are often reactive – responding to challenges as they arise. Visionary leaders, on the other hand, anticipate change before it happens. They don’t just solve problems; they look ahead, identify opportunities, and shape the future. Here’s how you can be a visionary leader:

  • Embrace Scenario Planning: The most successful leaders don’t wait for crises; they prepare for them. Companies like Amazon and Tesla thrive because their leaders think five to ten years ahead. Regularly conducting “what-if” analyses can help businesses stay ahead of disruptions.
  • Encourage a Culture of Innovation: Visionary leaders foster environments where employees feel empowered to experiment and challenge the status quo.
  • Stay Ahead of Industry Trends: Subscribe to reports, attend conferences, and network with thought leaders to predict industry shifts before they happen.

2.     Adapt to Digital Transformation

Technology is the biggest disruptor in today’s business landscape. AI, automation, and big data are not just buzzwords; they are fundamentally reshaping industries. Managers who resist digital transformation risk becoming obsolete, while visionary leaders harness these tools to drive efficiency, enhance decision-making, and create new revenue streams. Steps to lead this digital transformation:

  • Invest in Digital Literacy: Even if you’re not in a tech-heavy industry, understanding AI, blockchain, and data analytics is crucial. Many executives enroll in a general management course to strengthen their ability to integrate technology into business strategy. You can consider enrolling in a general management programme to learn these skills.
  • Leverage AI for Smarter Decision-Making: Companies like Netflix use AI-driven analytics to predict customer preferences and enhance user experience. Could your business use AI to forecast market trends or optimize supply chain management?
  • Adopt Agile Practices: Traditional business models follow rigid hierarchies. Visionary leaders embrace agility, enabling their teams to pivot quickly in response to change.

3.     Lead with Purpose

A manager manages teams; a visionary inspires movements. To lead transformation in uncertain times, leaders must establish a clear purpose that resonates with employees, customers, and stakeholders. You need to build a compelling vision.

  • Define Your ‘Why’: What impact does your company want to create? Visionary leaders, like Steve Jobs and Elon Musk, built companies with missions that were larger than profits.
  • Communicate with Clarity: A vision is useless if your team doesn’t understand it. Every decision, project, and strategy should align with the company’s broader purpose.
  • Lead by Example: Employees look to leadership for cues. If you want your organization to embrace transformation, demonstrate adaptability and forward-thinking in your own actions.

4.     Build Resilience

In uncertain times, resilience is the most important trait a leader can cultivate. Visionary leaders don’t fear failure; they see it as a learning opportunity. How to build organizational resilience:

  • Encourage a Growth Mindset: Visionary leaders foster a culture where employees feel safe to take risks and innovate.
  • Develop Strong Crisis Management Skills: Leaders must be prepared to respond to market downturns, supply chain disruptions, or workforce challenges without losing momentum.
  • Strengthen Financial Agility: Businesses that survived the COVID-19 crisis were those that quickly adapted their financial strategies. Maintaining healthy cash reserves and diversifying revenue streams can be game-changers.

5.     Embrace People-Centric Leadership

At the heart of every transformation is people. The best strategies and technologies mean nothing if employees are disengaged or resistant to change. Visionary leaders prioritize people over processes, ensuring that teams remain motivated, aligned, and prepared for the future.

  • Empower Teams with Autonomy: Employees perform better when they have ownership over their work. Autonomy fosters creativity and innovation.
  • Prioritize Employee Well-Being: Burnout is a major challenge for organizations undergoing transformation. Companies with strong well-being programs see higher productivity and retention rates.
  • Develop Future-Ready Skills: A general management course can help leaders refine their skills in change management, strategic thinking, and employee engagement.

6.     Make Bold, Data-Driven Decisions

In uncertain times, relying on intuition alone can be risky. Visionary leaders combine data-driven insights with bold decision-making to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

  • Leverage Predictive Analytics: AI-driven analytics can help forecast customer behavior, market trends, and operational risks.
  • Test and Iterate: The best leaders experiment with new strategies, analyze results, and pivot quickly if needed.
  • Balance Logic with Instinct: While data is powerful, gut feeling and experience also play a role in high-stakes decisions.

Final Thoughts

The leap from manager to visionary isn’t about a title change – it’s about adopting a mindset that embraces change, inspires innovation, and leads with clarity and purpose. As the business world grows increasingly complex, the most successful leaders will be those who:

  • Anticipate and adapt to change
  • Leverage technology for transformation
  • Lead with vision and inspire their teams
  • Prioritize resilience and agility
  • Make bold, data-driven decisions

For managers looking to step into visionary leadership roles, investing in executive education, like IIM General Management Program, which can provide the strategic insights, leadership skills, and digital expertise needed to lead successfully in an era of uncertainty.

International Conference on Advanced Materials and Technologies (ICAMT-2025)

International Conference on Advanced Materials and Technologies (ICAMT-2025) – Call for Papers

Bhopal, India – Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, is set to host the International Conference on Advanced Materials and Technologies (ICAMT-2025) from February 28 to March 2, 2025. This conference will bring together leading scholars, researchers, and industrialists to discuss the latest advancements in materials science and technology.

About the Conference

ICAMT-2025 serves as a premier interdisciplinary platform for researchers, practitioners, and educators to present and discuss emerging trends, challenges, and solutions in the field of advanced materials. The event will feature keynote speakers, poster presentations, and Best Paper, Best Poster, and Best Microstructure awards.

Call for Papers & Publication Opportunities

Researchers are invited to submit original and high-quality papers for presentation. Selected papers will be published in reputed journals, including:

  • Nanomaterials and Energy
  • Transactions of the Indian Ceramic Society
  • IOP Conference Series (Journal of Physics)
  • Book chapters with ISBN

Important Dates

  • Abstract Submission Deadline: February 12, 2025
  • Abstract Acceptance Notification: February 15, 2025
  • Full Manuscript Submission: March 15, 2025

Registration Details

  • Research Scholars/Students: ₹4,000 (Early) | ₹4,500 (Late)
  • Academicians/Industrialists (India & SAARC): ₹5,000 (Early) | ₹5,500 (Late)
  • Academicians/Industrialists (Overseas): $250 (Early) | $300 (Late)

Scope of the Conference

The conference will cover a broad range of topics, including:
✅ Shape memory alloys
✅ Functional materials
✅ Electronic materials and devices
✅ Advanced ceramics and composites
✅ Biomaterials and nanomaterials
✅ Hydrogen production and storage

Contact & Registration

🔗 Website: icamT2024.com
📧 Email: icamtmanit2025@gmail.com
📞 Phone: +91-755-4051702

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with global experts in materials research!

National Seminar on “Cybersecurity in the Age of AI & ML” –

National Seminar on “Cybersecurity in the Age of AI & ML” – Call for Papers

Ranchi, India – The Department of Computer Science & Engineering, Central University of Jharkhand (CUJ), in collaboration with the Computer Society of India (CSI), is organizing a Two-Day National Seminar on “Cybersecurity in the Age of AI & ML”. The seminar will take place on 27th – 28th February 2025 at CUJ, Ranchi.

This seminar aims to bring together academicians, researchers, and students to discuss the evolving challenges and advancements in cybersecurity, particularly in the context of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).

Call for Papers

The organizing committee invites well-researched, original papers from academia, research scholars, and students for presentation in both offline and online modes. Accepted papers will be presented during the seminar, and selected participants will receive the Best Presentation Award Certificate.

Registration Details

  • 🔗 Register here: Click Here
  • 💰 CSI Members: ₹500 | Non-CSI Members: ₹750
  • 📌 Submission Deadline: 18th February 2025

This is a great opportunity for researchers and students to showcase their work, engage in insightful discussions, and network with experts in the field.

For more details, visit CUJ’s official website or contact the seminar coordinators.