Month: February 2025

Agricultural Infrastructure Fund

In order to enhance the income of farmers, it is not only essential to enhance production and productivity of farm produce but also minimize the post-harvest losses and ensure better realization of prices for farmers through creation of modern post-harvest management infrastructure. With an objective to address the existing gaps in post-harvest management infrastructure in the country, the flagship scheme of Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) was launched in 2020-21 to strengthen the infrastructure in the country through creation of farm gate storage and logistics infrastructure to enable farmers to store and preserve their farm produce properly and sell them in the market at better price with reduced post-harvest losses and lesser number of intermediaries. Improved post-harvest management infrastructure like warehouses, Cold stores, sorting and grading units, ripening chambers etc will allow farmers to sell directly to a larger base of consumers and hence, increase value realization for the farmers. This will improve the overall income of farmers. Further, AIF scheme aims to benefit all stakeholders in the agricultural ecosystem by contributing in the holistic development of the agriculture sector. Under AIF, provision for Rs. 1 Lakh crore loan has been made through lending institutions with a interest rate cap of 9% on loans. The scheme is operational from 2020-21 to 2032-33.

All loans under this financing facility have interest subvention of 3% per annum up to a loan limit of ₹2 crores. This interest subvention is available for a maximum period of 7 years. In case of loans beyond ₹2 crores, interest subvention is limited up to ₹2 crores. Credit guarantee coverage is also available for eligible borrowers from this financing facility under Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme for a loan up to ₹2 crores. The fee for this coverage is borne by the Government.

Budgetary support is being provided for interest subvention and credit guarantee fee as also administrative cost of PMU. This will be amount to Rs. 10,636 crores over a period of 10 years. The detailed break up is as below.

SL NO.Name of ComponentAllotted Fund Amount
1Interest Subvention CostRs. 7907Cr
2Credit Guarantee CostRs. 2629 Cr
3Administration Cost of PMURs. 100 Cr
TotalRs. 10636 Cr

 State/UT wise details of Projects approved under AIF scheme during the last three years is as below: –

  (Amount in Rs Crore)

Sl.State / UTSanctioned NoSanctioned Amount
1Madhya Pradesh7,7015,853
2Maharashtra6,8604,151
3Rajasthan1,8022,310
4Gujarat2,0722,215
5Uttar Pradesh3,8543,636
6Haryana2,7042,108
7Punjab12,0033,116
8Telangana1,6622,178
9Karnataka2,2082,148
10Andhra Pradesh6801,116
11West Bengal2,5371,441
12Tamil Nadu5,8891,189
13Chhattisgarh8141,008
14Odisha1,098810
15Assam409726
16Bihar848680
17Kerala1,600604
18Uttarakhand236315
19Jharkhand225255
20Himachal Pradesh347137
21Jammu And Kashmir88198
22Delhi710
23Goa1910
24Meghalaya28
25Chandigarh28
 26Arunachal Pradesh56
27Tripura510
28Nagaland00
29The Dadra And Nagar Haveli And Daman And Diu11
30Puducherry22
31Manipur31
32Mizoram00
33Sikkim00
34Ladakh00
35Lakshadweep00
36Andaman and Nicobar Islands00
 Total         55,683               36,250

An impact assessment study of AIF was conducted by Agro Economic Research Centre, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, Pune in December 2023 to evaluate overall performance of the scheme, primarily based on feedback from beneficiaries as well as farmers in selected states.  The main findings of the study are as below. 

1.       Based on this study, till 26th January 2025, investment in the agri sector under AIF has generated more than 9 lakh employment opportunities. Out of the sanctioned projects, nearly 97% of the projects created are in rural areas promoting investment and employment opportunities in rural areas. 

2.       The average number of persons employed per unit in the peak season was found to be 11. The average was highest i.e. 27 in Rajasthan and lowest i.e. 5 in the state of Maharashtra.

3.       Further, the storage infrastructure created under AIF has added nearly 550 LMT of storage capacity which includes approx. 510.6 LMT of dry storage and nearly 39.4 LMT of Cold storage capacities (as on 26.01.2025). This additional storage capacity can save up to 20.4 LMT of food grains and 3.9 LMT of horticulture produce annually. 

4.       The Agro processing centres created under the scheme is promoting timely value-addition of farmer’s produce resulting in increase in farmer’s income up to 20% and reduction of post-harvest losses. Custom hiring centres set up under the scheme is boosting farm mechanization and adoption of better crop residue management practices.

5.       31 percent of the AIF units have availed of government subsidies also. Thus, they have been benefitted due to Convergence under AIF. 

6.       For around 85 percent of the total units, availability of AIF loan was the main reason for starting the unit.

Benefits of Organic Farming

It is agreed to the view that biological substitutes for chemical fertilizers and pesticides can improve health of soil, human and planet, besides benefiting farmers.

In order to promote use of bio-fertilizers, the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) has developed improved and efficient strains of bio-fertilizers specific to different crops and soil types under the Network project on ‘Soil Biodiversity-Bio-fertilizers’. Under this project ICAR has developed improved and efficient strains of bio-fertilizer specific to different crops and soil types, Liquid Bio-fertilizer technology with higher shelf life, bio-fertilizer consortia formulation with two or more bio-fertilizer strains, microbial enriched bio-compost and Zinc & Potassium Solubilizing Bio-fertilizers. The ICAR also imparts training to educate farmers on use of bio-fertilizers.

To promote use of organic fertilizers in the country, Government is promoting organic farming through the schemes of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) in all the States/UTs (except North Eastern States). For North Eastern States, Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) scheme is being implemented. Both the schemes stress on end-to-end support to farmers engaged in organic farming i.e. from production to processing, certification & marketing and post-harvest management training and capacity building. Under PKVY, assistance of Rs. 31,500 per ha for a period of three years is provided for promotion of organic farming. Out of this, assistance of Rs. 15,000 per ha for a period of three years is provided to farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer for on- farm /off –farm organic inputs. Under MOVCDNER, assistance of Rs. 46,500/ha for 3 years is provided for creation of Farmers Producer Organization, support to farmers for organic inputs etc. Out of this, assistance @ Rs. 32500/ ha for 3 years is provided to farmers for off -farm /on –farm organic inputs under the scheme including Rs. 15,000 as Direct Benefit Transfer to the farmers. The year-wise fund released including assistance for procurement of off-farm and on-farm organic inputs during the period of last three years is as under:

Rs. in Crore.

YearPKVYMOVCDNER
2021-2288.58133.29
2022-23188.78144.42
2023-24206.39230.67

In order to ensure the avaibility of good quality of bio-fertilizers, organic fertilizers and Bio- stimulants, the Government of India regulates its quality under the Fertilizer Control Order (1985).

Government is implementing Market Development Assistance (MDA) @ Rs. 1500/Metric Tonne to promote organic fertilizers, viz., Fermented Organic Manure/ Liquid Fermented Organic Manure/Phosphate Rich Organic Manure produced at plants under Galvanizing Organic Bio Agro Resources Dhan (GOBARdhan) scheme of Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.

To incentivize the farmers to reduce the overall consumption of fertilizers for improving soil health and fertility and sustainable productivity, “PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother Earth (PM-PRANAM)” incentivizes States and Union Territories to promote alternative fertilizers and balanced use of chemical fertilizers. Under this programme, 50% of subsidy savings will be passed on as a grant to the state that reduces chemical fertilizers.

National Center of Organic and Natural Farming (NCONF) and its Regional Center of Organic and Natural Farming (RCONF) located at Ghaziabad, Nagpur, Bangalore, Imphal and Bhubaneswar organise various trainings and online awareness campaign on organic and natural farming. ICAR also imparts trainings, front-line demonstrations, awareness programs etc. to educate farmers on organic farming, through network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF)

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh inaugurated 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) at Pusa Campus in New Delhi today, marking a significant milestone in global fisheries and aquaculture. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted the Government of India’s commitment to sustainable fisheries.  He accentuated that India has risen as the world’s second-largest fish producer under the Prime Minister’s visionary leadership and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The Minister also emphasized that India is implementing cutting-edge digital solutions such as National Digital Fisheries Platform and vessel monitoring, transponders, and emergency alerts to ensure the safety of fishermen at sea. He also informed that the Kisan Credit Card scheme has been extended to the fishers and fish farmers and various insurance schemes to the fisheries’ sector were also introduced. He further applauded the ICAR for its technological offerings, recognizing its contributions in the fisheries development in the country. Further he stressed that the research institutes should undertake capacity building initiative involving KVKs to improve the adoption of scientific practices by fishers and farmers. He also inaugurated the 14AFAF expo, a major highlight, bringing together the stakeholders from state fisheries departments, academia, research institutions and the industry to showcase technological advancements.

Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary, DARE, and DG, ICAR highlighted that 75 new fisheries technologies and improved fish varieties developed by ICAR, emphasizing ICAR’s commitment to sustainable, carbon-neutral fisheries and aquaculture for long-term industry resilience.

Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, highlighted the Government’s transformative initiatives, substantial investments, and the vital role of startups in driving innovation for India’s blue economy.

‘Padma Shri’ Dr. S. Ayyappan, former Secretary, DARE, and DG, ICAR, highlighted India’s leadership in fisheries research and described 14AFAF as the Mahakumbh of fisheries researchers from Asia.

Dr. Essam Yassin Mohammed, Director General, WorldFish, Malaysia, spoke on global innovations in fisheries and applauded India for its transformation initiatives in sustainable aquaculture.

Prof. Neil Loneragan, President, Asian Fisheries Society, Kuala Lumpur, emphasized the significance of international collaboration in advancing the fisheries sector globally.

Dr. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries Science), ICAR, and Convener of 14AFAF, in his welcome address, stated that the forum will play a crucial role in shaping the future of fisheries and aquaculture. He highlighted that the event features over 20 lead presentations by renowned experts from India and abroad, with 1,000 participants from 24 countries.

The session also saw the release of different publications & technologies by the dignitaries. The event was organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Kuala Lumpur, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India, and the Asian Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB), Mangalore.

Hosting the 14th AFAF in India after 15 years highlights the country’s growing prominence in global fisheries and aquaculture. With a rapidly expanding blue economy, progressive policies, and scientific advancements, India is emerging as a key player in sustainable fisheries. This forum serves as an opportunity to showcase India’s contributions, strengthen global partnerships and drive sustainable aquaculture initiatives for the future.

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Symposium on “Aquatic Animal Diseases – Addressing emerging challenges and preparedness”

Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri George Kurian has inaugurated the symposium on ‘Aquatic Animal Diseases: Emerging Challenges and Preparedness’ organised at the ICAR Convention Centre, Pusa Campus, New Delhi today. The symposium was organised as part of the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) meet being held here from 12-15 February, 2025 with the theme “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri George Kurien said appreciated ICAR for its initiative in organizing the symposium and emphasized the “One Earth – One Family” approach, stressing the importance of nutrition and biosecurity in aquaculture. He highlighted that sustainable aquaculture practices are key to ensuring food security, livelihoods, and economic growth in India. He acknowledged the efforts made under various government initiatives such as PMMSY and emphasized the need for continuous research and innovation in aquatic animal health management. He called for a multi-stakeholder approach, involving government agencies, research institutions, and industry players, to work together towards strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing biosecurity protocols, and improving diagnostic and therapeutic measures.

Dr. J.K. Jena, DDG (Fisheries Science), ICAR, and Convener of the symposium, provided an overview of the event, thanking the Government of India and Network of Aquaculture Centers in the Asia Pacific for their support. He emphasized about the need of strong biosecurity measures and discussed the ongoing NSPAAD Phase II and INFAR project, which aim to develop strategies for better disease control in aquaculture. He emphasized the Network project on Fish Health as a crucial initiative for advancing disease research and control in aquaculture. which focuses on disease management and early response mechanisms to mitigate potential risks in fish farming. Furthermore, he stressed that disease management will be critically important for the future in light of the diversification of aquaculture with introduction of new species, new systems, and the expansion of aquaculture. He also highlighted the importance of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines for effective disease management in aquaculture.

Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries and Animal Husbandry and Dairying in his address, highlighted the vital role of fisheries in supporting livelihoods and the economy. He stressed the importance of national, regional, and local-level strategies to combat disease outbreaks effectively. He underscored the need for proactive response mechanisms, recognizing that disease transmission is often linked to live animal movement. He called for enhanced biosecurity measures and early detection systems to safeguard the sustainability and economic viability of the aquaculture industry.

Dr B.K. Behera, Chief Executive, NFDB emphasized the need to institutionalize fish disease surveillance programs in India to ensure systematic disease monitoring, early detection, and effective control. He highlighted the importance of establishing disease-free zones in key aquaculture areas to prevent the spread of infections and enhance biosecurity measures. Institutionalizing surveillance would require integrating it into national aquaculture policies, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and ensuring sustained funding and implementation across states.

Dr. Eduardo Leano, NACA, Thailand provided insights into NACA’s mission since 1990, operating in 20 countries and spearheading five key disease surveillance programs. He highlighted the growing risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in aquaculture and stressed the urgent need for a sustainable, internationally coordinated approach to aquatic biosecurity.

Earlier Dr. B.K. Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, delivered the welcome address, highlighting aquaculture advancements and the importance of strengthening disease management. He emphasized the Network project on fish health under National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) as a key initiative for improving disease surveillance and fostering innovation in aquatic health solutions.

Dr. P.K. Sahoo, Director, ICAR-CIFA, delivered the Vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all dignitaries and participants.

The Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) is a triennial event of the Asian Fisheries Society with its Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This 14AFAF is being jointly organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Kuala Lumpur; Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi; the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India; and the Asian Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB), Mangalore. This prestigious event is being hosted in India for the 2nd time after the 8AFAF held at Kochi in 2007.

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Celebrating a Decade of Soil Health Cards

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Describe a phase in life that was difficult to say goodbye to.
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The Soil Health Card Scheme was introduced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 19th February, 2015 at Suratgarh, Rajasthan. The scheme was launched to assist State Governments to issue soil health cards to all farmers in the country. Soil health card provides information to farmers on nutrient status of their soil along with recommendation on appropriate dosage of nutrients to be applied for improving soil health and its fertility.

The Soil Health Card Portal (www.soilhealth.dac.gov.in) facilitates generation of Soil Health Cards for the benefit of farmers in uniform and standardized format across country in all major languages and 5 dialects.

The Soil Health Card contains status of the soil with respect to 12 parameters, namely N,P,K, S (Macro-nutrients); Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn, Bo (Micro – nutrients) ; and pH (Acidity or Basicity), EC (Electrical Conductivity) and OC (Organic Carbon).

Based on this, the card will also indicate fertilizer recommendations and soil amendment required for the farm. Soil Samples are taken generally two times in a year, after harvesting of Rabi and Kharif Crop respectively or when there is no standing crop in the field.

The Guideline of Village Level Soil Testing Labs (VLSTLs) was issued in June 2023. VLSTLs can be set up by individual entrepreneurs i.e. rural youth and community based entrepreneurs, including Self Help Groups (SHGs), Schools, Agriculture Universities etc. The beneficiary/village level entrepreneur should be a youth whose age should not be below 18 years and should not be more than 27 years. Self Help Groups, Farmers Producers Organisation (FPO) can also be enrolled as VLSTL.

As of February 2025, 665 Village-level Soil Testing Labs have been established in 17 States.

School Soil Health Programme

A pilot project on School Soil Health Programme has been undertaken by Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in (DA&FW) collaboration with Department of School Education & Literacy (DSE&L), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and State Governments in 20 schools (10 Kendriya Vidyalaya & 10 Navodaya Vidyalaya) in rural areas. The aim is to make students aware about soil health for sustainable agriculture practices. 20 soil health labs were set up in these schools. Modules for students from class VI to XII and teachers were developed and disseminated. Under the programme, soil samples were collected by School Students and soil testing were also done by students and SHCs were generated Students also educated farmers about the recommendation of Soil health card for judicious use of fertilizer and crop recommendation.

As of 2024, 1020 schools are implementing the School Soil Health Programme, with 1000 soil testing labs set up and 125,972 students enrolled.

Soil Health Card scheme has been merged in Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) scheme as one of its components under the name ‘Soil Health & Fertility’ from the year 2022-23.

Technological Advancements

SHC Mobile App–

To further ease the process of obtaining easy access to the Soil Health Card, the Government of India in 2023 made technological interventions in the New Soil Health Card Scheme. The Soil Health Card portal was revamped and integrated with a Geographic Information System (GIS) system so that all the test results are captured and seen on a map. To make the implementation/monitoring of the scheme smooth and to facilitate farmers an easy access to his soil health card, the mobile application has been made robust with the additional features such as:

  • Restrict the sample collection region for the Village Level Entrepreneur/Operator collecting the soil samples
  • Auto selection of the latitude and longitude of the location
  • Generation of a QR code to link with the sample and test results of all samples directly on the portal from the geo-mapped labs, without any manual intervention.

This application provides the graphical information of all over the India and also shows multiple layers State Boundary, District Boundary, Taluka Boundary, Panchayat Boundary and Cadastral Boundary.

The new system was rolled out in April 2023 and samples are now being collected through the mobile application. Soil Health Cards are now generated on this revamped portal.

For digitizing the Soil Health Cards, Web based work flow application Soil Health Card portal has been designed and developed by National Informatics Centre (NIC).

Conclusion

The Soil Health Card Scheme has transformed agricultural practices in India over the past decade. Since 2015, it has empowered farmers with crucial information on soil nutrient status and optimal fertilizer use, promoting sustainable farming and improved crop productivity. Initiatives like the School Soil Health Programme have expanded soil health awareness among students and local communities. With a robust mobile app, the process of obtaining a Soil Health Card has enhanced accessibility, efficiency, and transparency. As the scheme evolves, it continues to play a vital role in fostering sustainable agricultural development and safeguarding India’s soil health for future generations.

References:

Kindlty find the pdf file 

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Importance of High Impact Research Publications and How to Search Papers

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High impact research publications are pivotal in advancing knowledge and shaping academic and industry landscapes. They serve as the cornerstone for disseminating breakthroughs, influencing policy decisions, and fostering collaborations across disciplines. Here’s a deeper look into their importance and a guide on how to effectively use the research search tool available on Track2Training:

Importance of High Impact Research Publications

  • Dissemination of Innovative Ideas:
    High impact publications are essential for sharing new methodologies, theories, and experimental results. They reach a broad audience, ensuring that innovative ideas are disseminated throughout the scientific community and beyond.
  • Academic and Professional Recognition:
    Publishing in high impact journals not only adds credibility to a researcher’s work but also enhances their academic reputation. It often plays a crucial role in securing funding, tenure, and professional opportunities.
  • Influence on Policy and Practice:
    Research that garners high impact tends to influence policy-making, industry practices, and future research directions. Its findings are frequently cited, guiding further studies and real-world applications.
  • Global Collaboration and Networking:
    High impact research often acts as a bridge for international collaboration. Researchers from various parts of the world can build on each other’s work, leading to collaborative projects that push the boundaries of knowledge.
  • Quality and Rigor:
    The rigorous peer-review process associated with high impact publications ensures that the research meets high standards of quality, reliability, and relevance. This process helps to validate findings and enhances the overall integrity of the research field.

How to Search Using the Track2Training Research Page

The Track2Training research page is a specialized tool designed to help users locate high-quality research publications efficiently. Here’s how to make the most out of it:

  1. Accessing the Search Interface:
    When you visit the research page, you’ll find a clean and intuitive interface. Typically, there is a prominent search bar that serves as the starting point for your inquiry.
  2. Keyword Search:
    • Input Specific Keywords:
      Begin by entering relevant keywords related to your research topic. Whether you’re interested in “machine learning,” “renewable energy,” or “clinical trials,” the search bar allows you to narrow down the vast repository of research papers.
    • Use Boolean Operators:
      For more precise results, you might combine keywords using Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT). This helps in filtering out unrelated results and focusing on the core aspects of your research interest.
  3. Advanced Search Filters:
    • Publication Date:
      Narrow your search by specifying a range of publication years to access the most current research or historical perspectives.
    • Journal or Conference Name:
      If you are looking for publications from a particular journal or conference, use the filter options provided.
    • Research Area or Discipline:
      Many research search tools, including this one, allow filtering by specific research domains, which can help in locating niche or interdisciplinary studies.
  4. Reviewing Search Results:
    • Title and Abstract Review:
      Once the search results are displayed, scan through the titles and abstracts. This quick review can help you determine the relevance of each paper before diving into the full text.
    • Citation Information:
      High impact research is often indicated by a high number of citations. Look for citation counts or related metrics if available, as they can provide insights into the influence of the research.
  5. Accessing Full-Text and Additional Resources:
    • Link to Full Papers:
      Many search tools provide direct links to the full-text versions of the papers or to their respective publisher pages.
    • Reference Management:
      Some platforms also offer options to download citations in various formats (like BibTeX or EndNote), which can be very helpful when managing references for your own research.
  6. Staying Updated:
    Regularly revisiting the research page or setting up alerts (if the functionality is available) ensures that you remain updated on the latest high impact research publications in your field.

Final Thoughts

High impact research publications not only validate the credibility and relevance of academic work but also drive progress across multiple sectors. By leveraging specialized search tools like the one offered by Track2Training, researchers can efficiently navigate through vast databases, pinpoint the most influential studies, and build upon existing knowledge to foster further innovation.

This approach not only streamlines the research process but also ensures that the most pertinent and high-quality information is at your fingertips.

Discipline in the Indian Education System

By Shashikant N Sharma

In education, discipline refers to the rules and practices that help students learn and grow in a safe environment. It helps students stay organized and focused, and can help them develop good study habits. 

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Discipline is a crucial component of the Indian education system, shaping the moral, ethical, and academic foundation of students. It is not just about maintaining order but also about instilling values such as responsibility, respect, and self-regulation. The Indian education system, rooted in ancient traditions and evolving through modern reforms, has always emphasized discipline in various forms.

1. Historical Perspective on Discipline in Indian Education

a. Ancient Gurukul System

  • The Gurukul system was the earliest form of education in India, where students (shishyas) lived with their teachers (gurus) in an ashram.
  • Discipline was strictly maintained through rules that emphasized obedience, humility, and rigorous academic and physical training.
  • Punishments were minimal as self-discipline was encouraged through spiritual learning and practical wisdom.

b. Colonial Influence on Discipline

  • The British education system introduced structured discipline in schools through strict rules, uniforms, and punishments.
  • Corporal punishment was common, and the system focused more on rote learning and obedience rather than creativity and critical thinking.

c. Post-Independence Reforms

  • After independence, India adopted a more balanced approach, incorporating discipline with democratic values.
  • Policies promoted student-friendly environments while maintaining classroom order and respect for authority.

2. Forms of Discipline in Indian Schools and Colleges

a. Self-Discipline

  • Encouraged from an early age, students are taught to take responsibility for their actions.
  • Morning assemblies, yoga, meditation, and moral education help in self-discipline.

b. Institutional Discipline

  • Schools and colleges follow strict codes of conduct regarding attendance, uniforms, behavior, and academic performance.
  • Rules are set to ensure order, such as punctuality, respect for teachers, and adherence to dress codes.

c. Teacher-Imposed Discipline

  • Teachers play a major role in enforcing discipline through classroom management and behavioral guidance.
  • Positive reinforcement, mentorship, and counseling are increasingly replacing traditional punitive methods.

d. Parental and Societal Influence

  • Indian parents place significant emphasis on discipline, ensuring that children follow rules at school and home.
  • Society also plays a role in shaping student behavior through cultural expectations and moral upbringing.

3. Role of Discipline in the Indian Education System

a. Academic Excellence

  • A disciplined environment ensures that students focus on studies, complete assignments on time, and respect deadlines.
  • Punctuality and time management are key aspects of academic discipline.

b. Character Development

  • Discipline instills values like honesty, responsibility, and perseverance.
  • It prepares students to face real-world challenges with resilience and determination.

c. Social Harmony

  • Schools promote discipline to foster mutual respect, teamwork, and cooperation among students from diverse backgrounds.
  • It helps in reducing conflicts and promoting a peaceful learning atmosphere.

d. Preparation for Professional Life

  • The disciplined environment of educational institutions prepares students for the workforce, where punctuality, work ethics, and responsibility are essential.

4. Challenges in Maintaining Discipline

a. Changing Societal Norms

  • The influence of social media and digital platforms has impacted traditional discipline methods.
  • Students are more independent but also more prone to distractions and indiscipline.

b. Issues of Corporal Punishment

  • Though banned, corporal punishment still exists in some schools, leading to psychological stress among students.
  • The focus is now shifting toward counseling and positive discipline strategies.

c. Parental Overindulgence

  • Some parents are overprotective, interfering in school disciplinary actions and making it difficult for institutions to enforce rules.

d. Teacher Shortages and Workload

  • Overburdened teachers struggle to maintain discipline effectively while handling large class sizes.

5. Modern Approaches to Discipline in Education

a. Positive Discipline Strategies

  • Encouraging students through rewards and appreciation rather than punishments.
  • Engaging students in decision-making to develop accountability.

b. Digital Monitoring and AI-Based Discipline

  • Schools use digital attendance, CCTV cameras, and AI-driven behavior monitoring to track and enforce discipline.

c. Student Counseling and Emotional Support

  • Schools and colleges now focus on mental health and counseling to address behavioral issues rather than harsh disciplinary measures.

d. Legal Framework for Student Discipline

  • The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, and guidelines from CBSE, ICSE, and UGC ensure that discipline policies align with child rights and ethical standards.

6. Conclusion

Discipline in the Indian education system has evolved from rigid control to a more balanced, student-friendly approach. While maintaining order and respect remains essential, modern education policies emphasize holistic development, self-regulation, and psychological well-being. Moving forward, India must continue to balance traditional discipline with progressive, positive reinforcement strategies to create responsible, well-rounded individuals.

References

Amare, G. (1967). Aims and Purposes of Church Educaiton in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian Journal of Education, 1(1), 1-11.

Adaobi, E. M., & Abigail, O. M. (2021). Effect of problem-based learning on achievement of secondary school computer studies sudents in nnewi educaiton zone. International Journal of Innovative Research and Advanced Studies (IJIRAS), 8(6), 93-97.

Harman, G. (2000). Institutional Mergers in Australian Higher education since 1960. Higher Education Quarterly, 54(4), 343-366.

Cavanagh, D. M. (1985). Teacher Curriculum: A Failed Paradigm of Practise and Proceedure. Australian Journal of Teacher Education, 10(2), 5.

Ping, H., & Liu, Y. (2010, March). Notice of Retraction: Demonstrative Analysis of Undergraduate Hospitality Management Education in Research-oriented Universities of China and of America. In 2010 Second International Workshop on Education Technology and Computer Science (Vol. 1, pp. 735-738). IEEE.

Yorke, M. (2000). Developing a Quality Culture in Higher Educaiton. Tertiary Education and Management, 6(1), 19-36.

Why You Should Visit Eduindex.org Daily for Educational News

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In today’s fast-paced digital world, staying updated with the latest educational trends, research developments, and academic opportunities is crucial for students, educators, and researchers. Eduindex.org is your one-stop destination for all things education, offering timely and relevant news across various domains. Here’s why you should make it a habit to visit Eduindex News daily and follow our WhatsApp channel for instant updates.

1. Comprehensive Coverage of Educational News

Eduindex News provides a wide range of educational updates, including:

  • Latest research findings and academic papers.
  • University admissions, scholarships, and funding opportunities.
  • Government policies related to education.
  • Online learning resources and technology trends in education.
  • Interviews with top educators and scholars.

2. Timely and Reliable Information

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Eduindex News – An Educational News Agency

Bhopal, 20 February 2025

Eduindex can boost educational news by leveraging its platform to enhance visibility, credibility, and engagement. Here’s how:

  1. Content Aggregation & Curation
    Eduindex can compile the latest educational news from verified sources, ensuring that educators, students, and policymakers get a one-stop destination for updates.
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    Optimizing articles for search engines can improve rankings, making educational news more accessible to a wider audience.
    Using targeted keywords and meta descriptions can ensure that the right people find relevant content.
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    Sharing content across social media platforms, newsletters, and mobile apps can increase readership.
    Collaborations with influencers in education can further amplify reach.
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    Encouraging educators, researchers, and students to contribute articles can bring diverse perspectives.
    Featuring interviews with education experts can add authority and credibility.
  5. Engaging Multimedia Content
    Adding infographics, videos, and podcasts can make educational news more engaging and easier to consume.
    Live discussions or webinars on trending education topics can attract interactive audiences.
  6. Community Engagement & Discussion Forums
    Hosting discussion forums for teachers, students, and education professionals can enhance interaction and exchange of ideas.
    Polls and surveys can gather feedback and insights on key educational topics.
  7. Timely Updates & Alerts
    Push notifications and email alerts for breaking educational news can keep the audience informed instantly.
  8. Integration with Research & Academia
    Linking educational news with academic journals, research papers, and policy analysis can provide deeper insights.
    Partnering with universities and institutions can help disseminate valuable knowledge.
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UGC Discontinues CARE List, Proposes Guidelines for Journal Selection

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Share one of the best gifts you’ve ever received.
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New Delhi, Feb. 18 – The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially dissolved the UGC-CARE (Consortium for Research and Academic Ethics) list, which previously served as a benchmark for faculty publications. In its place, the commission has introduced a set of suggestive parameters to assist faculty members in selecting peer-reviewed journals for research publication.

The newly formulated parameters, developed by a panel of academicians and subject experts, have been made available for public feedback. The UGC has invited suggestions via email at journal@ugc.gov.in, with the deadline set for February 25.

Introduced in 2018, the UGC-CARE list was intended to recognize credible journals for research publication, faculty promotions, and funding applications. However, it faced criticism over concerns of over-centralization, procedural delays, and the inadvertent inclusion of predatory journals. The exclusion of research journals in Indian languages also remained a key point of contention.

The newly proposed parameters have been categorized under eight broad criteria, including Journal Preliminary Criteria, Journal Visibility, and Research Ethics. The UGC has advised Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to adopt and refine these parameters according to their academic and research priorities. Institutions may also set up internal committees to periodically assess and enhance the framework to ensure adherence to quality standards.

Explaining the rationale behind this decision, UGC Chairman M. Jagadesh Kumar pointed to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which criticized excessive regulation in academia and called for greater institutional autonomy. “By discontinuing the UGC-CARE list, we are shifting the responsibility to HEIs, allowing them to develop their own credible evaluation mechanisms for research publications,” he said.

He further cautioned that without a robust institutional framework, HEIs run the risk of recognizing faculty publications in dubious journals, which could harm their academic reputation. Emphasizing the role of mentorship, he noted that senior faculty members must guide young researchers in distinguishing credible journals from predatory ones.

With this shift, the UGC aims to strike a balance between academic freedom and quality assurance, encouraging institutions to take a proactive role in upholding research integrity while reducing bureaucratic constraints.

14th February: A Day of Love or a Black Day?

Written by Priya Acharya

Introduction

14th February is globally recognized as Valentine’s Day, a celebration of love, affection, and companionship. Couples express their emotions through gifts, roses, and heartfelt gestures. However, in India, this day is not just about love; it also carries a painful memory that turned it into a Black Day for many.

For some, it symbolizes love, while for others, it reminds them of an immense sacrifice. So, is 14th February a day of romance or remembrance? Let’s explore both perspectives.

  1. Valentine’s Day: The Celebration of Love

Valentine’s Day originates from the story of Saint Valentine, who was believed to have secretly helped lovers unite. Over time, this day became a global festival dedicated to expressing love.

Why is Valentine’s Day Special?

Expression of emotions: Couples confess their feelings and strengthen their relationships.

A festival for the youth: Youngsters celebrate it with excitement, exchanging gifts and planning special outings.

Beyond romance: It’s not just for lovers; it also symbolizes love for friends, family, and humanity.

Shayari on Love: “Love is not just a moment, it’s a lifetime of care, It’s found in every smile, in every silent prayer.”

  1. 14th February: The Black Day of India

While the world celebrates love on this day, for India, 14th February is also a day of mourning and remembrance due to a tragic event.

(A) The Pulwama Attack (2019)

On 14th February 2019, a deadly terrorist attack in Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir, shook the entire nation.

A suicide bomber targeted a CRPF convoy, killing 40 brave soldiers and leaving the country in grief.

Since then, many Indians have started observing 14th February as a Black Day to honor the martyrs.

Shayari for the Martyrs: “They gave their today for our tomorrow, We remember them not just in pain but in pride and sorrow.”

(B) Cultural and Social Resistance

In India, traditional values and modern love celebrations often clash.

Many groups believe that Valentine’s Day is against Indian culture and have protested against its celebration.

Some organizations have declared this day as “Parents’ Worship Day”, urging youth to respect their elders instead.

Shayari on Values: “Love is pure, love is divine, But never forget where your roots entwine.”

  1. Love vs. Remembrance: Finding the Balance

The debate around 14th February continues—should we celebrate love or mourn the loss of our heroes?

The Ideal Approach

Respecting sentiments: Those celebrating Valentine’s Day should also acknowledge and pay tribute to the fallen soldiers.

A day for both: Love and sacrifice can coexist—one should not overshadow the other.

True love is beyond one day: Instead of limiting love to one date, we should practice compassion and gratitude every day.

Final Shayari: “Love is not just about roses and wine, It’s found in sacrifice, in the stars that shine. Honor the love, cherish the brave, Let 14th February be a tribute, not just a wave.”

Conclusion

14th February carries two different meanings—one of love and another of sacrifice. While some celebrate relationships, others remember the sacrifices of soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation.

Whether you see it as a day of love or a Black Day, what matters most is respecting both perspectives and ensuring that love, in any form, is never forgotten.

Final Thought:

“Love is eternal, and so is the sacrifice of the brave. May we always find a way to honor both.”

Written by Priya Acharya

Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 to be inaugurated on 15th February

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The Governor of Tamil Nadu, Thiru R.N. Ravi, flagged off the train carrying the first batch of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 delegates—including students, teachers, and writers—today at Dr. MGR Central Railway Station, Chennai. This 10-day-long event is scheduled to take place from 15th to 24th February 2025. Director of the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Prof. V. Kamakoti and other dignitaries were also present at the event.

The Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, in a social media message, welcomed everyone to embrace the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ at Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0. He emphasized that the event serves to cherish, celebrate, and strengthen the deep-rooted bonds between Kashi and Tamil Nadu—two enduring centers of culture, civilization, and knowledge.

The central theme of this edition of KTS will be Maharishi Agasthyar and Mahakumbh and Shri Ayodhya Dham will be the backdrop. The event will offer a divine experience and bring Tamil Nadu and Kashi—the two timeless centres of our civilisation and culture, more closer.

An exhibition on the different facets of Sage Agasthyar and his contributions to world of Health, Philosophy, Science, Linguistics, Literature, Polity, Culture, Art, particularly to Tamil and Tamil Nadu, etc. and seminars, workshops, book release, etc. will be organised at Kashi during KTS 3.0.

This year, the government has decided to bring around 1000 delegates from Tamil Nadu under five categories/groups: (i) Students, Teachers, and Writers; (ii) Farmers and Artisans (Vishwakarma Categories); (iii) Professionals and Small Entrepreneurs; (iv) Women (SHG, Mudra Loan beneficiaries, DBHPS Pracharaks); and (v) Start-up, Innovation, Edu-Tech, Research. This year, an additional group of around 200 students of Tamil origin studying in various CUs will be a part of this event to enliven the bond between Kashi and Tamil Nadu. Participation of youth in all categories has been encouraged this year. The duration of the tour for the delegates will be 8 days (4 for travel, 4 at site). The first group left Tamil Nadu today and the last group will return to Tamil Nadu on 26th February 2025.

The objective of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam is to rediscover, reaffirm, and celebrate the age-old links between Tamil Nadu and Kashi—two of the country’s most important and ancient seats of learning.

Kashi Tamil Sangamam is being organized by the Ministry of Education, Govt. of India in collaboration with other ministries including Culture, Textiles, Railways, Tourism, Food Processing, I&B etc. and the Govt. of UP. The programme aims to provide an opportunity for scholars, students, philosophers, traders, artisans, artists and people from other walks of life from the two regions to come together, share their knowledge, culture and best practices and learn from each other’s experience. It also aims to make the youth aware and experience cultural oneness. The endeavour is in sync with NEP 2020’s emphasis on integrating the wealth of Indian Knowledge Systems with modern systems of knowledge. IIT Madras and BHU are the two implementing agencies for the programme.

The Government has so far celebrated the Kashi Tamil Sangamam on two occasions earlier; i.e., for one month in 2022 and for a fortnight in 2023 and around 4000 delegates from Tamil Nadu have been a part of this event. In both the editions of KTS, there were overwhelming responses from people of Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. IIT Madras will be the sender institution and BHU the receiving institution, as in the earlier editions.

Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the registration portal for KTS 3.0 on 15th January 2025. The portal for registration was open till 1st February 2025.

KTS 2.0 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at Varanasi on 17th December, 2023, with the first-ever real-time, app-based translation of a part of the Prime Minister’s speech in Tamil for the benefit of visiting Tamil delegates.

MANIT Bhopal to Host 11th International Conference on Transportation Systems Engineering & Management (CTSEM 2025)

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Bhopal, India – Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT) Bhopal, in collaboration with CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), New Delhi, is set to host the 11th International Conference on Transportation Systems Engineering & Management (CTSEM 2025) on July 4-5, 2025. The conference aims to bring together researchers, academicians, scientists, and transportation professionals to discuss emerging challenges and advancements in transportation engineering and management.

Conference Leadership

  • Chief Patron: Dr. Manoranjan Parida, Director, CSIR-CRRI, New Delhi
  • Conference Chairperson: Dr. P.K. Agarwal, MANIT Bhopal
  • Conference Secretaries:
    • Dr. Siddhartha Rokade, MANIT Bhopal
    • Dr. Pritikana Das, MANIT Bhopal
    • Dr. Bivina G.R., MANIT Bhopal

Conference Highlights

CTSEM 2025 will provide a platform for experts to discuss key issues related to transportation systems, including:

  • Sustainable and Intelligent Transportation Solutions
  • Traffic Management and Congestion Mitigation
  • Road Safety and Infrastructure Development
  • AI, Big Data, and IoT in Transportation
  • Public Transport Planning & Management
  • Urban Mobility and Non-Motorized Transport (NMT)
  • Freight Transport and Logistics

The event will feature pre-conference workshops, networking sessions, technical visits, and best paper awards, making it a valuable gathering for professionals in the field.

Paper Submission and Publication Opportunities

Authors are invited to submit their full papers via the MSCMT platform by April 15, 2025, with final acceptance notifications to be sent by June 1, 2025. Selected high-quality papers will be published in SCOPUS-indexed conference proceedings by Springer, and some outstanding papers will be considered for publication in the Journal of Traffic and Transportation Engineering (JTTE) by Elsevier.

Sponsorship Opportunities

CTSEM 2025 welcomes industry sponsors to participate, with sponsorship categories ranging from Platinum (INR 3 lakhs) to Bronze (INR 0.5 lakh). Sponsors will receive branding and promotional benefits, exhibition space, and recognition during the conference.

About MANIT Bhopal and CSIR-CRRI

MANIT Bhopal, one of India’s premier technical institutions, has been at the forefront of engineering education and research. The Civil Engineering Department is a key center for academic excellence, fostering innovative solutions for urban and rural transportation challenges. CSIR-CRRI, a leading research institute, is known for its contributions to road and transportation planning, playing a crucial role in shaping India’s infrastructure.

Venue and Connectivity

The conference will be held at MANIT Bhopal, located in the heart of Bhopal City, known as the City of Lakes. Bhopal is well-connected by air, rail, and road, with the campus just 20 km from the airport and 8 km from the railway station.

Contact Information

CTSEM 2025 Organizing Committee
Transportation Engineering Division, Civil Engineering Department
Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, India
Email: ctsem2025manit@gmail.com
Website: CTSEM 2025

With a rich history of successful editions hosted by reputed institutions across India, CTSEM 2025 at MANIT Bhopal promises to be an enriching event for professionals in the transportation sector. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this significant international conference!

Interaction of MANIT Director and Experts with PhD Scholars

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Date: 12th February 2025
Venue: Vivekanand Conference Hall, MANIT Bhopal

Bhopal, 12th February 2025 – An interactive session between the Director, esteemed experts, and PhD scholars of MANIT was conducted at the Vivekanand Conference Hall. The session focused on providing guidance on crucial aspects of research, including research metrics, journal selection, societal and industrial relevance of research, and the importance of timely completion of PhD programs.

Fig. Research Publication Trends of MANIT indexed in Scopus

The session began with a discussion on the basics of research metrics, where the significance of impact factor, h-index, citation index, and other evaluation parameters was highlighted. Scholars were advised to focus on the quality and novelty of their research rather than solely on numerical metrics. Following this, scholars presented their research progress and received constructive feedback from the experts. The importance of structured research planning and setting regular milestones was emphasized to ensure timely completion.

Experts then provided guidance on selecting reputable journals based on indexing, peer-review standards, and relevance to the research domain. Scholars were encouraged to avoid predatory journals and aim for Scopus, Web of Science, and UGC-CARE-listed journals. The discussion also underscored the need to align research with real-world problems and societal needs. Opportunities for collaboration with industries and governmental bodies were explored to enhance practical applications, and scholars were encouraged to explore patents, technology transfers, and start-up ideas arising from their research.

One of the key concerns addressed was the timely completion of PhD programs and avoiding the ‘slow poison’ of prolonged stipend dependency. The adverse effects of extended PhD durations and over-reliance on stipends were highlighted, and scholars were motivated to complete their research within the stipulated timeframe to contribute effectively to academia, industry, or policy-making. The importance of skill development and networking for post-PhD career opportunities was also stressed.

The session was highly interactive and insightful, offering scholars valuable perspectives from the Director and experts. The discussion reinforced the importance of quality research, timely completion, and the broader impact of scholarly work on society and industry. Scholars were encouraged to remain dedicated, innovative, and socially responsible in their research endeavors.

Leap in Rural School Enrollment

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The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024 is a nationwide rural household survey that reached 649,491 children in 17,997 villages across 605 rural districts in India. Further, ASER surveyors visited 15,728 government schools with primary sections. 8,504 were primary schools and 7,224 were schools which also had upper primary or higher grades.

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Key Findings for Pre-primary (age group 3-5 years)

  1. Enrollment in pre-primary institutions
  • Among children aged 3-5 years, enrollment in some type of pre-primary institution (Anganwadi centre, government pre-primary class, or private LKG/UKG) has improved steadily between 2018 and 2024.
  • Among 3-year-olds, enrollment in pre-primary institutions increased from 68.1% in 2018 to 77.4% in 2024. Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Telangana have achieved near-universal enrollment for this age group.
  • Among 4-year-olds, the all-India figure for enrollment in pre-primary institutions increased from 76% in 2018 to 83.3% in 2024. In 2024, enrollment rates in pre-primary for this age exceed 95% in states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
  • Among 5-year-olds, this figure also showed big increases, rising from 58.5% in 2018 to 71.4% in 2024. The states with enrollment exceeding 90% in pre-primary institutions for this age include Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Nagaland.
  1. Type of pre-primary institution
  • Anganwadi centres continue to be the biggest provider of services in pre-primary age group in India.
  • Approximately one-third of all 5-year-olds attend a private school or pre-school in 2024. This figure was 37.3% in 2018, fell to 30.8% in 2022, and returned to 37.5% in 2024.
  1. Age of entry to Standard (Std) I
  • The proportion of children who are “underage” (age 5 or below) is decreasing over time. In 2018, this figure was 25.6%, in 2022 it stood at 22.7%, and in 2024, nationally the percentage of underage children in Std I was at its lowest ever at 16.7%. On average, this proportion has either declined or remained stable across all states in India.

Key Findings for Elementary (age group 6-14 years)

  1. Enrollment
  • Overall school enrollment rates among the 6-14 age group have exceeded 95% for close to 20 years. This proportion has stayed almost the same, from 98.4% in 2022 to 98.1% in 2024. Across all states, enrollment in this age group is above 95% in 2024.
  • In 2018, 65.5% of children in the 6-14 age group in India were enrolled in government schools. By 2024, the all-India figure increased to 66.8%.
  1. Reading
  • Std III: The percentage of Std III children able to read Std II level text was 20.9% in 2018. This figure increased to 23.4% in 2024. The improvement in government schools is higher than the corresponding recovery for private schools. Following a decline in Std III reading levels in government schools in most states in 2022, all states have shown a recovery in 2024. States with more than a 10-percentage point increase in this proportion between 2022 and 2024 in government schools include Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Odisha, and Maharashtra.
  • Std V: Reading levels improved substantially among Std V children, especially for those who are enrolled in government schools. The proportion of Std V children in government schools who can read a Std II level text fell from 44.2% in 2018 to 38.5% in 2022 and then recovered to 44.8% in 2024. In 2024, Mizoram (64.9%) and Himachal Pradesh (64.8%) had the highest proportions of Std V children in government schools able to read Std II level text. States with over a 10-percentage point increase in this proportion in government schools include Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu.
  • Std VIII: Reading levels increased among children enrolled in Std VIII in government schools, which fell from 69% in 2018 to 66.2% in 2022 but then rose to 67.5% in 2024. Government schools in states such as Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Sikkim show notable improvements.
  1. Arithmetic
  • Std III: The all-India figure for children in Std III who are able to do a numerical subtraction problem was 28.2%. This figure has increased to 33.7% in 2024. Among government school students, this figure went from 20.9% in 2018 to 27.6% in 2024. For private school students, this number showed a smaller improvement since 2022. Government schools across most states have shown gains since 2022, with over 15-percentage point increases recorded in states like Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh.
  • Std V: At the all-India level, the proportion of children in Std V who can do a numerical division problem has also improved. This figure was 27.9% in 2018 and then rose to 30.7% in 2024. This change is also driven mainly by government schools. States with the showing most improvement (more than 10-percentage points) in government schools include Punjab and Uttarakhand.
  • Std VIII: The performance of Std VIII students in basic arithmetic remains similar to earlier levels, going from 44.1% in 2018 to 45.8% in 2024.

Key Findings for Older children (age group 15-16 years)

  1. Enrollment
  • The proportion of 15-16-year-old children who are not enrolled in school dropped sharply from 13.1% in 2018 to 7.9% in 2024 at the all-India level.
  1. Digital literacy
  • Access to smartphones is close to universal among the 14-16 age group. Almost 90% of both girls and boys report having a smartphone at home. More than 80% report knowing how to use a smartphone.
  • Of the children who could use a smartphone, 27% of 14-year-olds and 37.8% of 16-year-olds reported having their own phone.
  • 82.2% of all children in the 14-16 age group reported knowing how to use a smartphone. Of these, 57% reported using it for an educational activity in the preceding week while 76% said that they had used it for social media during the same period. While the use of a smartphone for educational activities was similar among girls and boys, girls were less likely than boys to report using social media (78.8% of boys as compared to 73.4% of girls). Kerala stands out in this respect, with over 80% children who reported that they used the smartphone for educational activity and over 90% using it for social media.
  • Among children who used social media, knowledge of basic ways to protect themselves online was relatively high. 62% knew how to block or report a profile, 55.2% knew how to make a profile private, and 57.7% knew how to change a password.

Key Findings of School Observations

  1. Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) activities
  • Over 80% of schools had received a directive from the government to implement Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) activities with Std I-II/III, both in the previous as well as in the current academic year. A similar proportion had at least one teacher who had received in-person training on FLN.
  • More than 75% schools had received Teaching Learning Material (TLM) and/or funds to make or purchase TLM for FLN activities.
  • More than 75% schools reported implementing a school readiness program for students prior to entering Std I, in both the previous and the current academic year.
  • More than 95% schools reported having distributed textbooks to all grades in the school, a substantial increase over 2022 levels.
  1. Student and teacher attendance
  • Student and teacher attendance in government primary schools show small but consistent improvements since 2018. Average student attendance increased from 72.4% in 2018 to 75.9% in 2024.
  • Average teacher attendance increased from 85.1% in 2018 to 87.5% in 2024. This trend is largely driven by changes in teacher and student attendance in Uttar Pradesh.
  1. Small schools and multigrade classrooms
  • The proportion of government primary schools with less than 60 students enrolled shows a sharp increase, rising from 44% in 2022 to 52.1% in 2024. More than 80% primary schools in these states are small schools: Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Nagaland, and Karnataka. Himachal Pradesh has the highest proportion of small Upper primary schools at 75%.
  • Two-thirds of Std I and Std II classrooms in primary schools were multigrade, with students from more than one grade sitting together.
  1. School facilities
  • Nationally, all Right to Education-related indicators included in ASER have shown small improvements between 2018 and 2024 levels. For example, the fraction of schools with useable girls’ toilets increased from 66.4% in 2018 to 72% in 2024.
  • The proportion of schools with drinking water available increased from 74.8% to 77.7%, and the proportion of schools with books other than textbooks being used by students increased from 36.9% to 51.3% over the same period.
  • Sports-related indicators remain at close to the levels observed in 2018. For example, in 2024, 66.2% schools have a playground, similar to 66.5% in 2018.

References

Click to access ASER_2024_Final-Report_25_1_24.pdf

Leap in Rural School Enrollment

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