Education is the fundamental way for achieving full human potential, developing an equitable and just society and promoting national development. Providing quality education universally to raise the literacy rate to its extent, the main motive and only key to boost economic growth, social justice and equality, scientific advancement, cultural advancement and nation’s integrity. Moreover its best way forward for developing and maximizing the country’s talent and utilizing it for good of the individual, the society, the country and for whole world. India is going to have world’s highest population of young people over the next decade, and our ability to provide worth education opportunities is going to decide the future of the nation.
Although today in the eve of technology, where machine learning , artificial intelligence are replacing humans with machines , the only person stands out is that which have something that makes it different from others . This gap of what we possess or current state of learning outcomes and what is required get bridged through undertaking change in reforms of education policy. The Education policy we were till relied on was designed and implemented in 1986 which somehow based on memorizing things i.e. the more you memorize the more scores you get.
But, under the purview of self reliant India and in respect with ongoing pandemic situations, to make Indians self sufficient, along with change in many fields the change in education policy is appreciable. In July 2020, “New Education Policy, 2020” [NEP] was approved by cabinet and it is based on the principle that education must develop not only cognitive capacities –both included foundational [literacy and numeracy] and high order thinking skills [critical reasoning and logic based] but also social, ethical, emotional and dispositions capacities too. This policy aims for the major overhaul of the Indian education system and under this it is expected that the education system will be completely transferred by 2040.
Positive Impacts on The Education System
On Schools
School years are changed from 10+2 format to 5+3+3+4 format which to be precise means that students get freedom of choosing their subjects in 9th standard and AISSCE get transferred to collages. And for the first time, Early childhood Care and education [ECCE] get included in education policy. This aims at achieve the gross enrollment ratio 100% in pre-schools to secondary education by 2035.
To eliminate the rote learning and promotes the holistic development of the children, the present curriculum and pedagogy will be revamped to make it suitable for 21st century.
Nutritious breakfast will be provided in addition to mid day meal to make students more focused and concentrates on studies.
Vocational studies that impacts or improves employability chances as per trends among developed countries gets integrated to mainstream education which in previous policy considered as inferior subject.
It purposed imparting emotional skills such as empathy, communication, perseverance, public speaking, leadership qualities and many more in students along with intellectual skills. NEP 2020 also stresses on encouraging creativity and innovativeness in students. they will be provided technology advancements knowledge, fundamental duties, social issues etc.
“Right to Education” extended from 14 to 18 years.
To increase gross enrollment ratio and access to education, Online Distance learning, MOOC [Massive open online courses] options are given adequate consideration.
A regulatory system worked towards stooping the commercialization of education by increasing arbitrary fee.
National Test agency (NTA) will conduct high quality common aptitude test for entrances in order to reduce multiple test logarithms.
Teachers will be given “Continuous professional development “[CDP] for self improvement and to get more indulge or to bring more innovativeness in their existing approaches of teaching.
On higher education
Aims to increase gross enrollment ratio in higher education from 26% to 50% by 2030
Many higher educations are providing only limited courses but with NEP, 2020 it integrates these institutes into multidisciplinary institutions by proving wide choices of subjects.
It made degree flexible by proving entry and exit options to degree courses.
India will be transformed as a global study destination by allowing TOP 100 universities of world to open colleges in India. And further no student will be deprived of education because of financial inability.
“National Higher Education Regulatory Authority” [NHERA] will regulate all higher education institutes to eliminate duplicate regulatory efforts.
But a coin always has two sides; criticism comes always wherever positives come.
CRITICISM:
It was provided that funding for the education will increased from 4.6% to 6% of GDP to in=implement NEP,2020. But this COVID outbreak impacted the economy so badly that increase funding share in any sector is a terrible thought itself.
Mother tongue or local language as a medium of instruction was made mandatory till class 5th. This being criticized on the ground that English connects the whole world as its being spoken in many countries and somewhere it might impacts immigrants too.
This policy mentioned online education but in India stilt ere are many people who don’t have access to digital devices and internet connection
Poor infrastructure in educational institutions and shortage of teachers are not addressed.
In general, some companies do not prefer recruiting the students that are graduated through distance learning courses. So, employability value of open learning courses should be addressed.
CONCLUSION:
At present, the Indian education system is criticized by many due to many reasons such as its rote learning methods, outdated curriculum etc. India is ranking 35th in global education rankings of 2020. National Education Policy 2020 can completely change our education system for good because it crafted well according to the requirements of the 21st century. By 2030, India will have the largest population of youth. NEP 2020 helps in utilizing this demographic dividend. And It can also make India a knowledge hub of the world by attracting foreign students
Education is the fundamental way for achieving full human potential, developing an equitable and just society and promoting national development. Providing quality education universally to raise the literacy rate to its extent, the main motive and only key to boost economic growth, social justice and equality, scientific advancement, cultural advancement and nation’s integrity. Moreover its best way forward for developing and maximizing the country’s talent and utilizing it for good of the individual, the society, the country and for whole world. India is going to have world’s highest population of young people over the next decade, and our ability to provide worth education opportunities is going to decide the future of the nation.
Although today in the eve of technology, where machine learning , artificial intelligence are replacing humans with machines , the only person stands out is that which have something that makes it different from others . This gap of what we possess or current state of learning outcomes and what is required get bridged through undertaking change in reforms of education policy. The Education policy we were till relied on was designed and implemented in 1986 which somehow based on memorizing things i.e. the more you memorize the more scores you get.
But, under the purview of self reliant India and in respect with ongoing pandemic situations, to make Indians self sufficient, along with change in many fields the change in education policy is appreciable. In July 2020, “New Education Policy, 2020” [NEP] was approved by cabinet and it is based on the principle that education must develop not only cognitive capacities –both included foundational [literacy and numeracy] and high order thinking skills [critical reasoning and logics based] but also social, ethical, emotional and dispositions capacities too. This policy aims for the major overhaul of the Indian education system and under this it is expected that the education system will be completely transferred by 2040.
Positive Impacts on The Education System
School years are changed from 10+2 format to 5+3+3+4 format which to be precise means that students get freedom of choosing their subjects in 9th standard and AISSCE get transferred to collages. And for the first time, Early childhood Care and education [ECCE] get included in education policy. This aims at achieve the gross enrollment ratio 100% in pre-schools to secondary education by 2035.
To eliminate the rote learning and promotes the holistic development of the children, the present curriculum and pedagogy will be revamped to make it suitable for 21st century.
Nutritious breakfast will be provided in addition to mid day meal to make students more focused and concentrates on studies.
Vocational studies that impacts or improves employability chances as per trends among developed countries gets integrated to mainstream education which in previous policy considered as inferior subject.
It purposed imparting emotional skills such as empathy, communication, perseverance, public speaking, leadership qualities and many more in students along with intellectual skills. NEP 2020 also stresses on encouraging creativity and innovativeness in students. they will be provided technology advancements knowledge, fundamental duties, social issues etc.
“Right to Education” extended from 14 to 18 years.
To increase gross enrollment ratio and access to education, Online Distance learning, MOOC [Massive open online courses] options are given adequate consideration.
A regulatory system worked towards stooping the commercialization of education by increasing arbitrary fee.
National Test agency (NTA) will conduct high quality common aptitude test for entrances in order to reduce multiple test logarithms.
Teachers will be given “Continuous professional development “[CDP] for self improvement and to get more indulge or to bring more innovativeness in their existing approaches of teaching.
Aims to increase gross enrollment ratio in higher education from 26% to 50% by 2030
Many higher educations are providing only limited courses but with NEP, 2020 it integrates these institutes into multidisciplinary institutions by proving wide choices of subjects.
It made degree flexible by proving entry and exit options to degree courses.
India will be transformed as a global study destination by allowing TOP 100 universities of world to open colleges in India. And further no student will be deprived of education because of financial inability.
“National Higher Education Regulatory Authority” [NHERA] will regulate all higher education institutes to eliminate duplicate regulatory efforts.
But a coin always has two sides; criticism comes always wherever positives come.
CRITICISM:
It was provided that funding for the education will increased from 4.6% to 6% of GDP to in=implement NEP,2020. But this COVID outbreak impacted the economy so badly that increase funding share in any sector is a terrible thought itself.
Mother tongue or local language as a medium of instruction was made mandatory till class 5th. This being criticized on the ground that English connects the whole world as its being spoken in many countries and somewhere it might impacts immigrants too.
This policy mentioned online education but in India stilt ere are many people who don’t have access to digital devices and internet connection
Poor infrastructure in educational institutions and shortage of teachers are not addressed.
In general, some companies do not prefer recruiting the students that are graduated through distance learning courses. So, employability value of open learning courses should be addressed.
CONCLUSION:
At present, the Indian education system is criticized by many due to many reasons such as its rote learning methods, outdated curriculum etc. India is ranking 35th in global education rankings of 2020. National Education Policy 2020 can completely change our education system for good because it crafted well according to the requirements of the 21st century. By 2030, India will have the largest population of youth. NEP 2020 helps in utilizing this demographic dividend. And It can also make India a knowledge hub of the world by attracting foreign students.
Amarcord (1973) is set in a small Italian town near Rimini, and it is a whimsical tale about the vibrant people of this town shown in a span of a year. Most of it is based on the director, Frederico Fellini’s childhood.
The film follows a very unique narrative style, even though we see this town through the eyes of teenager Titta Biondi, the film’s focus is not on one character, the movie is like a collection of vignettes that portray the lives of the people of this town. The narrators keep changing. There’s no plot, this film is like a carnival – you’re transported to this world and you are supposed to enjoy all the chaos shown on screen.
This is an extremely light and breezy movie. The film flows like music, because the focus changes from one character to the other very smoothly. All characters are eccentric and lively. It feels surreal and dreamlike, the use of washed out colours adds to this feeling. I like how personal all of Fellini’s films are and this is probably his most personal one. I loved how he’s captured the spirit of youth. I found the film very relatable because of how he’s shown all the emotions and experiences of childhood.
Fellini has touched on the subjects of Christianity, sex and Mussolini’s fascist government with a lot of humour. One of the scenes that made me laugh super hard was when the priest of this town tells all the school boys to avoid masturbation because it would make Saint Louis cry. And while confessing, the protagonist Titta starts recalling all his sexual fantasies.
Amarcord is one of the most dazzling film experiences I’ve ever had, Fellini succeeds at evoking nostalgia by telling a dreamy and personal story about his youth in a small Italian town. In the end- a masterpiece.
A SCANNER DARKLY (2006)
A Scanner Darkly (2006) is set a few years into the future and it’s about an undercover detective Bob Arctor (Keanu Reeves) who’s trying to get to the distributers of this brain damaging drug named “Substance D”. While working on this assignment, he gets addicted to the substance and starts losing his identity.
This film is grim and hypnotic, these elements are elevated by it’s stunning rotoscope animation. The characters are abstruse and well done. Keanu Reeves, Robert Downey Jr. and Woody Harrelson have all given top notch performances.
Linklater has created this feeling of claustrophobia and paranoia. The film maintains a certain ambiguity, which could make it hard to follow, but that’s part of the experience. It is based on Philip K Dick’s novel of the same name which was about his experience with drugs. This is a faithful adaptation of his novel that gives an important message in a hard hitting and impactful way.
A minor nitpick that I have with the movie is that it does get a little convoluted in the third act. A lot of things happen, a few twists take place here and there, I think these could have been done in a smoother fashion. A few small plot points do not make sense when everything adds up.
Overall, A Scanner Darkly is an entrancing experience with a rousing screenplay and an important message.
The Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu has expressed profound grief on the passing away of former President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee today. In a message, he said that Shri Mukherjee was a statesman and an illustrious son of India who brought dignity and decorum to every post held by him. In his death, India has lost one of the outstanding leaders, Shri Naidu added.
Following is the full text of the Vice President’s message –
“I learnt with profound grief the passing away of former President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He was a statesman and an illustrious son of India, who rose from humble beginnings to occupy the country’s highest constitutional position through hard work, discipline and dedication.
Shri Pranab Mukherjee brought dignity and decorum to every post held by him during his long and distinguished public service. Known for his administrative acumen and deep understanding of India’s parliamentary system, he held several important positions including Finance Minister, Defence Minister, External Affairs Minister and Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission. As President, he encouraged people to participate in innovative programmes at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
He was an encyclopedia on parliamentary processes, contemporary political and other matters and was known for his scholarly knowledge. He was an excellent parliamentarian and known for his oratorical skills. His phenomenal memory and quick grasp of the issues were legendary. He took an abiding interest in deepening democracy and strengthening various institutions. He was one of the great consensus figures and used to reach out to everybody across the political spectrum.
In his death, India has lost one of the outstanding leaders. I convey my deepest condolences to bereaved family members and pray to God to give them strength and fortitude to the bear this huge loss.”
Election Commission of India deeply mourns the passing away of Former President Sh Pranab Mukherjee.
Expressing grief, Chief Election Commissioner Sh Sunil Arora said “In his demise, the nation has lost a widely respected savant and a Rajrishi known for his encyclopaedic knowledge of economic, constitutional and historical affairs.”
Recalling Sh Pranab Mukherjee’s specific association with Election Commission of India, CEC Sh Arora said despite failing health Shri Pranab Mukherjee had graciously accepted ECI’s invitation and delivered the first Sukumar Sen Memorial Lecture, organised by ECI on 23rd January 2020. Shri Mukherjee, as President of the republic, had addressed ECI’s National Voters Day event twice in 2016 and 2017.
“May God give his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss”, Sh Arora added.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has condoled the passing away of former President Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee.
The Prime Minister said, “India grieves the passing away of Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He has left an indelible mark on the development trajectory of our nation. A scholar par excellence, a towering statesman, he was admired across the political spectrum and by all sections of society.
During his political career that spanned decades, Shri Pranab Mukherjee made long-lasting contributions in key economic and strategic ministries. He was an outstanding Parliamentarian, always well-prepared, extremely articulate as well as witty.
As India’s President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee made Rashtrapati Bhavan even more accessible to common citizens. He made the President’s house a centre of learning, innovation, culture, science and literature. His wise counsel on key policy matters will never be forgotten by me.
I was new to Delhi in 2014. From Day 1, I was blessed to have the guidance, support and blessings of Shri Pranab Mukherjee. I will always cherish my interactions with him. Condolences to his family, friends, admirers and supporters across India. Om Shanti.
Dr. Saroj Ghose, the Father of Science Centre Movement in India turns 85 on September 1, 2020. The doyen of science popularization movement not only in India but acclaimed internationally, Dr. Ghose is known as museum maker. Way back in 1960s, he dreamt of taking science to the millions in the country through Science Museums and Science Centres and played a pivotal role in establishing National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) in 1978, which resulted in setting up of Science Centres in different parts of the country, including the Nehru Science Centre in Mumbai. Science Museums and Science Centres are institutions that popularize science and technology in a non-formal way.
Dr. Ghose graduated from Jadavpur University in Electrical and Communication Engineering, and joined the upcoming Birla Industrial & Technological Museum (BITM), in Kolkata, under the aegis of CSIR, as a Technical Officer in 1958. BITM was opened in 1959 and Dr. Ghose soon became an indispensable part of it.
In 1965, Dr. Ghose took charge of BITM. In the same year, BITM launched ‘Mobile Science Museum’ (now called Mobile Science Exhibition) at Ramakrishna Ashram School, Narendrapur, near Kolkata. The exhibition was on the theme ‘Our Familiar Electricity’ which had 30 exhibits mounted on portable stands, and carried by a bus. The philosophy behind this travelling exhibition was, “If children cannot come to Science Museum, Science Museum will go to them”. NCSM now operates 48 Mobile Science Exhibition buses throughout the country. Limca Book of Records recognized this programme as the largest and the longest running Non-Formal Science Education Programme in India.
In the early 1970s, Dr. Ghose went to USA for higher studies where he earned an M.S. degree in ‘Control Engineering’ from Harvard University and was subsequently engaged with research in the history of science and technology at the Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC. After his return to India, in 1974, he submitted a thesis on ‘The Introduction and Development of the Electric Telegraph in India’ with Jadavpur University and earned a PhD degree in Engineering. While in the USA, he noticed how the world famous The Exploratorium, San Francisco, was changing the very concept of how children should learn science with the help of interactive exhibits to explore the rudiments of scientific principles. Dr. Ghose introduced this concept in India and Nehru Science Centre at Mumbai became the first Science Centre in India fully equipped with interactive exhibits. The centre was opened in 1985. Later on, in 1992, National Science Centre, Delhi was opened in the same format but with interactive historical perspectives.
Prior to this in 1979, the International Year of the Child, he turned a municipal garbage ground at Worli in Mumbai into the world’s first science park, where children could explore the basics of science while playing with the exhibits, set up in the lush green ambience of the park. The model was globally followed by large numbers of science centres and is considered as an original contribution by NCSM. In 1985, this became the Nehru Science Centre, considered as the largest interactive science centre in India.
In 1978, the Govt of India delinked the two existing Science Museums and one Science Centre from CSIR and National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) was formed. Dr. Ghose took over as Director of NCSM in 1979 and in 1986 as the Director General. Motivated with the zeal of popularizing science, creating a scientific awareness in the country and nurturing creativity and scientific temper in the children through science centre activities, Dr. Ghose spearheaded the Science Centre movement in India. Under his leadership, 18 Science Centres (2 National Level, 7 at Regional Level and 8 at Sub-Regional/District Level) were set up across India. These Science Centres continue to play a vital role in spreading the message of Science in the country since their inceptions. Dr. Ghose retired from NCSM’s service in 1997, but NCSM continued his good work by setting up large numbers of science centres across the country. This was possible because of the visionary outlook of Dr. Ghose, who always emphasized on building a dedicated, motivated and trained manpower of Scientific, Technical and Administrative staff who would take his legacy forward.
In the mid ‘80s, Dr Ghose masterminded the concept of international mega travelling exhibition titled “India: a Heritage of Science”. The exhibition was hugely popular in the USA, France, Soviet Union, Bulgaria, China, Bangladesh, Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana etc. The exhibition earned NCSM an international recognition for its contribution to the science popularization activities.
After retirement from NCSM in 1997, Dr Ghose kept himself busy with the development of Kolkata Panorama for Kolkata Museum Society, Parliament Museum, Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum etc. He was also the Museum Advisor to the President of India. He also played a key role in the development of Gujarat Science City, Ahmedabad.
The illustrious career of Dr. Saroj Ghose is studded with many national and international recognitions. He was awarded ‘Indira Gandhi Prize’ from the Indian National Science Academy as well as ‘Hari Om Trust Award’ from University Grants Commission for Popularization of Science in 1988. In 2001, NCSTC, Govt. of India, awarded him ‘National Award’ for the best effort in science popularization amongst children. He was conferred with ‘Padma Shri’ (1989) and ‘Padma Bhushan’ (2007) by the Government of India. In 1996, he received ‘Primo Rovis International Prize’ from the Trieste International Foundation, ‘ASTC Fellow’ [Association of Science and Technology Centers, USA] in 1997.
Dr. Saroj Ghose had held several important positions in the Paris based International Council of Museums (ICOM) between 1974 and 1998 and twice became its President (1992-95 and 1995-98). He was also the President, Second Science Centre World Congress, 1999.
India aims for 100 million tonnes (MT) coal gasification by 2030 with investments worth over Rs. 4 lakh crores, said Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of Coal and Mines. Addressing a webinar on Coal Gasification and Liquefaction, Shri Joshi said that Coal Gasification and Liquefaction is no more an aspiration, but a requirement. He added that for encouraging use of clean sources of fuel, government has provided for a concession of 20% on revenue share of coal used for gasification. He emphasized that this will boost production of synthetic natural gas, energy fuel, urea for fertilisers and production of other chemicals. The webinar was organised by Ministry of Coal (MoC) in New Delhi for discussing the road map for achieving the target. The webinar was attended by around 700 delegates from Government of India, CIL and the coal sector.
Reiterating on government’s commitments for green initiatives in the coal sector, Shri Joshi said that Coal Gasification and Liquefaction are well in the government’s agenda and various actions have been taken for development of Surface Coal Gasification in India. A Steering Committee has been constituted in this regard under the chairmanship of Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog comprising of members from the Ministry of Coal. CIL has also planned to set up at least 3 gasification plants (besides Dankuni) on BOO basis through global tendering and has signed an MOU with GAIL for marketing synthetic natural gas.
Shri Joshi urged the attendees of the session to explore more about technologies & other aspects in Coal Gasification sector, in line with our country’s SWOT analysis. He added that this will help in harnessing nation’s reserves for maximum utilisation while heading on the path to sustainability, as per global standards.
Dr. V K Saraswat, Member NITI Aayog and Shri Anil Kumar Jain, Secretary, Coal also addressed the webinar. Shri Binay Dayal, DT, CIL; Dr. P K Singh, Director, CIMFR; Shri Ashutosh Prasad, GM, PDIL; Shri Naveen Jindal, Chairman, JSPL; Shri Rajesh Jha, CEO, Mundra Synergy; Dr. V R Sharma, MD, JSPL; Dr. Dev Gavaskar, Partner, True North Ventures; Mr. Bob Carter, Group VP, Air Products also shared their views and valuable information.
The Government of India announces with profound sorrow the death of ShriPranab Mukherjee, former President of India at Army Research & Referral Hospital, New Delhi on 31stAugust, 2020.
As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, seven days State Mourning will be observed throughout India from 31.08.2020 to 06.09.2020, both days inclusive. During the period of State Mourning the National Flag will fly at halfmaston all buildings throughout India, where it is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment.
The date, time and venue of the State Funeral will be intimated later.
Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah has mourned the passing away of former President of India, Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. In a tweet, Shri Amit Shah said, “Deeply anguished on the passing away of former President of India, Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee ji.”
The Union Home Minister said, “He was a vastly experienced leader who served the nation with utmost devotion. Pranab da’s distinguished career is a matter of great pride for the entire country.”
Shri Amit Shah said, “Pranab Da’s life will always be cherished for his impeccable service and indelible contribution to our motherland. His demise has left a huge void in Indian polity. My sincerest condolences are with his family and followers on this irreparable loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.”
CSIR-CMERI has developed the World’s Largest Solar Tree, which is installed at CSIR-CMERI Residential Colony, Durgapur. Prof.(Dr.) Harish Hirani, Director, CSIR-CMERI, while elaborating about the technology stated that, “The installed capacity of the Solar Tree is above 11.5 kWp. It has the annual capacity to generate 12,000-14,000 units of Clean and Green Power”.
The Solar Tree has been designed in a manner to ensure maximum exposure of each Solar PV Panel to Sunlight and also creation of the least amount of shadow area beneath. There are a total of 35 Solar PV Panels in each tree with a capacity of 330 wp each. The inclination of the arms holding the Solar PV Panels are flexible and can be adjusted as per requirement, this feature is not available in Roof-Mounted Solar facilities. The energy generation data can be monitored either real-time or on daily basis.
Prof.(Dr.) Harish Hirani explained, “The CSIR-CMERI developed Solar Tree besides being the World’s Largest Solar Tree also has certain customizable features for application at diverse sites. The Solar Trees were designed in a manner to ensure minimum Shadow Area, thus potentially making these Solar Trees available for widespread usage in Agricultural activities such as High Capacity Pumps, e-Tractors and e-Power Tillers.
TheseSolar Trees can be aligned with Agriculture for substituting price-volatile fossil fuels. Each Solar Tree has the potential to save 10-12 tons of CO2 emissions being released into the atmosphere as Greenhouse Gases when compared with fossil fuel fired energy generation.Besides, the surplus generated power can be fed into an Energy Grid.
This Agricultural Model can provide a consistent economic return and help the farmers counter the effects of the uncertain variations in Agriculture related activities, thus, making farming an Economic and Energy Sustainable practice.”
Each Solar Tree will cost Rs 7.5 lakhs and the interested MSMEs can align their Business Model with the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evem Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) Scheme for farmers, for developing a Renewable Energy based Energy Grid.
The solar tree has the capability to incorporate IOT based features, i.e. round-the-clock CCTV surveillance in agricultural fields, real-time humidity, wind speed, rainfall prediction and soil analytics sensors. The CSIR-CMERI developed solar powered e-Suvidha Kiosks may also be connected to the Solar Trees for real-time access to the vast majority of agricultural database as well as to the eNAM i.e. National Agricultural MarketPlace for instant and real-time access to an unified online market.This Solar Tree is a Quantum Leap towards making an Energy Reliant and Carbon Negative India.
Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri Prakash Javadekar has mourned the passing away of former President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee.
In his condolence message the Minister said “India has lost one of its great sons, Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. Shri Mukherjee was not only an intellectual but a decision maker, a strategist and the backbone of Parliament for many years. He has left his mark on governance and administration. As President of India he has performed with clear understanding and with dignity.”
Shri Javadekar reminisced the time he sought permission from Shri Mukherjee for publishing his speeches, which the former President was kind enough to permit.
The Government of India has announced the Sale (Re-issue) of (i) ‘5.22 percent Government Stock, 2025’ for a notified amount of Rs 12,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction, (ii) ‘6.19 percent Government Stock, 2034’ for a notified amount of Rs 11,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction, and (iii) ‘7.16 per cent Government Stock, 2050’ for a notified amount of Rs 7,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction. GoI will have the option to retain additional subscription up to Rs2,000 crore against each of the above securities. The auctions will be conducted by the Reserve Bank of India, Mumbai Office, Fort, Mumbai on September 04, 2020 (Friday) using multiple price method.
Up to 5% of the notified amount of the sale of the stockswill be allotted to eligible individuals and Institutions as per the Scheme for Non-Competitive Bidding Facility in the Auction of Government Securities.
Both competitive and non-competitive bids for the auction should be submitted in electronic format on the Reserve Bank of India Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) system on September 04, 2020. The non-competitive bids should be submitted between 10.30 a.m. and 11.00 a.m.and the competitive bids should be submitted between 10.30 a.m. and 11.30 a.m.
The result of the auctions will be announced on September 04, 2020 (Friday) and payment by successful bidders will be on September 07, 2020 (Monday).
The Stocks will be eligible for “When Issued” trading in accordance with the guidelines on ‘When Issued transactions in Central Government Securities’ issued by the Reserve Bank of India vide circular No. RBI/2018-19/25 dated July 24, 2018 as amended from time to time.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has expressed his deep anguish over the demise of former president of India, Shri Pranab Mukhejee. In a Twitter message Shri Singh said, “He was widely respected by the people across all sections of society. His demise is a personal loss. He had tremendous knowledge of India’s history, diplomacy, public policy and also defence.” Remembering his persona, Shri Singh said “ Pranabda epitomised simplicity, honesty and strength of character. He served our country with diligence and dedication. His contribution to public life was invaluable.”
Raksha Mantri expressed deepest condolences to his bereaved family.
The former President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee, breathed his last today, the 31st August in New Delhi. He has been senior minister in various central government ministries, including the Ministry of Defence during 2004-06.
Corona virus is a family of viruses that cause illness such as respiratory diseases or gastrointestinal diseases. A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been identified in humans previously. On 31 December 2019, a cluster of cases of pneumonia of unknown cause, in the city of Wuhan, Hubei province in China, was reported to the World Health Organisation. This novel coronavirus was named Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) by WHO in February 2020. The virus is referred to as SARS-CoV-2 and the associated disease is COVID-19. On 30 January, India reported its first case of COVID-19 in Kerala, which rose to three cases by 3 February; all were students who had returned from Wuhan, China. No significant rise in cases was seen in the rest of February. On 4 March 22 new cases came to light, including those of an Italian tourist group with 14 infected members.
To combat with COVID-19, Indian Government extended the date of lockdown to 3rd May, 2020.Recently an industry survey that is jointly conducted by industry body FICCI and tax consultancy Dhruva advisors and took responses from about 380 companies across the sectors. It is said that businesses are grappling with “tremendous uncertainty” about their future. According to Dun & Bradstreet, COVID-19 no doubt disrupted human lives and global supply chain but the pandemic is a severe demand shock which has offset the green shoots of recovery of the Indian economy that was visible towards the end of 2019 and early 2020. The revised Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimates for India downwards by 0.2 percentage points for the fiscal year 2020 to 4.8 per cent and by 0.5 per cent for the fiscal year 2021 to 6 per cent. Further, it is stated that the extent of the actual impact will depend upon the severity and duration of the outbreak.
There are three major channels of impact for Indian businesses according to the report namely linkages, supply chain and macroeconomic factors. The data of the Dun & Bradstreet shows that at least 6,606 Indian entities have legal linkages with companies in countries with a large number of confirmed COVID-19 cases. And business activity in the foreign markets is slow which implies a negative impact on the top line of these companies. Sectors that would be much affected include logistics, auto, tourism, metals, drugs, pharmaceuticals, electronic goods, MSMEs and retail among others. KPMG India Chairman and CEO Arun M Kumar said: “Apart from providing robust safety nets for the vulnerable, a focus on ensuring job continuity and job creation will be imperative”. “And there is urgent need to mobilise resources to stimulate the economy for increased demand and employment”. According to the KPMG report “It is expected that the course of economic recovery in India will be smoother and faster than that of many other advanced countries”. Impact on Indian industry:
Chemical Industry: Some chemical plants have been shut down in China. So there will be restrictions on shipments/logistics. It was found that 20% of the production has been impacted due to the disruption in raw material supply. China is a major supplier of Indigo that is required for denim. Business in India is likely to get affected so people securing their supplies. However, it is an opportunity. US and EU will try and diversify their markets. Some of the business can be diverted to India which can also be taken as an advantage.
Shipping Industry: Coronavirus outbreak has impacted the business of cargo movement service providers. As per the sources, per day per vessel has declined by more than 75-80% in dry bulk trade.
Auto Industry: Its impact on Indian companies will vary and depend upon the extent of the business with China. China’s business no doubt is affected. However, current levels of the inventory seem to be sufficient for the Indian industry. If the shutdown in China continues then it is expected to result in an 8-10% contraction of Indian auto manufacturing in 2020.
Pharmaceuticals Industry: Despite being one of the top formulations of drug exporters in the world, the pharma industry of India relies heavily on import as of bulk drugs. Due to the coronavirus outbreak, it will also be impacted.
Textiles Industry: Due to coronavirus outbreak, several garments/textile factories in China have halted operations that in turn affecting the exports of fabric, yarn and other raw materials from India.
Solar Power Sector: Indian developers may face some shortfall of raw materials needed in solar panels/cells and limited stocks from China.
Electronics Industry: The major supplier is China in electronics being a final product or raw material used in the electronic industry. India’s electronic industry may face supply disruptions, production, reduction impact on product prices due to heavy dependence on electronics component supply directly or indirectly and local manufacturing.
IT Industry: The New Year holidays in China has been extended due to coronavirus outbreak that adversely impacted the revenue and growth of Indian IT companies.
Tourism and Aviation: Due to the coronavirus outbreak, the inflow of tourists from China and from other East Asian regions to India will lose that will impact the tourism sector and revenue.
RBI announced further measures for dealing with the COVID-19.
Extension of realisation period of export proceeds Presently value of the goods or software exports made by the exporters is required to be realized fully and repatriated to the country within a period of 9 months from the date of exports. In view of the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the time period for realization and repatriation of export proceeds for exports made up to or on July 31, 2020, has been extended to 15 months from the date of export. The measure will enable the exporters to realise their receipts, especially from COVID-19 affected countries within the extended period and also provide greater flexibility to the exporters to negotiate future export contracts with buyers abroad.
Review of Limits of Way and Means Advances of States/UTs Reserve Bank had constituted an Advisory Committee (Chairman: Shri Sudhir Shrivastava) to review the Ways and Means limits for State Governments and Union Territories (UTs). Pending submission of the final recommendations by the Committee, it has been decided to increase WMA limit by 30 percent from the existing limit for all States/UTs to enable the State Governments to tide over the situation arising from the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The revised limits will come into force with effect from April 1, 2020 and will be valid till September 30, 2020.
Implementation of countercyclical capital buffer The framework on countercyclical capital buffer (CCyB) was put in place by the Reserve Bank in terms of guidelines issues on 5th February 2015. Wherein it was advised that the CCyB would be activated as and when the circumstances warranted, and that the decision would normally be pre-announced. The framework envisages the credit-to-GDP gap as the main indicator, which is used in conjunction with other supplementary indicators. Based on the review and empirical analysis of CCyB indicators, it has been decided that it is not necessary to activate CCyB for a period of one year or earlier, as may be necessary. FDI policies changes due to Covid-19: On 18 April 2020, the government of India passed an order that would protect Indian companies from FDI during the pandemic. All countries sharing a land border with India would now face scrutiny from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry before any FDIs.
• Infrastructure 10% of India’s GDP is based on construction activity. Indian government has invested $1 trillion on infrastructure from 2012–2017. 40% of this $1 trillion had to be funded by private sector. 100% FDI under automatic route is permitted in construction sector for cities and townships. • Automotive FDI in automotive sector was increased by 89% from April 2014 to February 2015. India is 7th largest producer of vehicles in the world with 25.5 million vehicles annually. 100% FDI is permitted in this sector via automatic route. Automobiles shares 7% of the India’s GDP. • Pharmaceuticals Indian pharmaceutical market is 3rd largest in terms of volume and 13th largest in terms of value. Indian pharmacy industry is expected to grow at 20% compound annual growth rate from 2015 to 2020. 74% FDI is permitted in this sector. • Service FDI in service sector was increased to 46% in 2014–15. It is US $1.88 billion in 2017. Service sector includes banking, insurance, outsourcing, research & development, courier and technology testing. FDI limit in insurance sector was raised from 26% to 49% in 2014.[ • Railways 100% FDI is allowed under automatic route in most of areas of railway, other than the operations, like High speed train, railway electrification, passenger terminal, and mass rapid transport systems etc. Mumbai-Ahemdabad high speed corridor project is single largest railway project in India, other being CSTM-Panvel suburban corridor. Foreign investment more than ₹90,000 crore (US$13 billion) is expected in these projects so far. • Chemicals Chemical industry of India earned revenue of $155–160 billion in 2013. 100% FDI is allowed in Chemical sector under automatic route. Except Hydrocyanic acid, Phosgene, Isocyanides and their derivatives, production of all other chemicals is de-licensed in India India’s share in global specialty chemical industry is expected to rise from 2.8% in 2013 to 6–7% in 2023 • Textile Textile is one major contributor to India’s export. Nearly 11% of India’s total export is textile. This sector has attracted about $1647 million from April 2000 to May 2015. 100% FDI is allowed under automatic route. During year 2013–14, FDI in textile sector was increased by 91%. Indian textile industry is expected reach up to $141 billion till 2021.
• Airlines Foreigner investment in a scheduled or regional air transport service or domestic scheduled passenger airline is permitted to 100%.
CII sets up relief pool funds to help MSMEs, society. Apex industry body Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) on Monday said it has set up CII COVID-19 CODE and CII COVID – 19 rehabilitation and relief pool fund to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) and society from the impact of disruptions caused by coronavirus.CII has developed and advocated a COVID-19 CODE to its members to help its workers and society at large from the impact of disruptions caused by COVID-19, said Vikram Kirloskar, President, CII. Uday kotak, the President-Designate of CII, said the COVID Rehabilitation Fund is important for the micro and small industry, which will need special hand holding and help to rehabilitate their business. “The CII COVID Rehabilitation and Relief Fund (CRR) will be an industry led initiative to work with the MSME sector,” Kotak said. Elaborating on some of the major interventions required from RBI, Kotak said that it is important that a rate cut of 50 to 100 basis points is announced immediately. He also called for dollar liquidity swap as India was in a comfortable position as far as its dollar reserves are concerned. CII has called for cash into the bank accounts of all whose earnings are below Rs 5 lakhs. All Indian citizens should be given cash in their accounts through the direct benefit transfer; while those below 25 years can be given a one-time payment of Rs 5000, senior citizens above 65 age can be given Rs 10,000, CII has said. According to CII, there is a need to ensure that all migrant workers continue to stay in the cities where they work and so providing for enablers is crucial. All borrowers should be given a three-month moratorium on all loans and all repayment obligations should be suspended for this period, it said. CII also emphasised that there is an immediate need to facilitate and enable advances for ways and means for industry across sectors and the government could perhaps explore options of a moratorium on interest and principle for the next three months. It also pitched for suspension of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) proceedings while redefining norms for NPAs as several companies will be unable to meet their payment obligations. The CII also recommended for close coordination between regulators like RBI, MCA and SEBI to get effective results and implementation. An outbreak of COVID-19 impacted the whole world and has been felt across industries. The outbreak is declared as a national emergency by the World Health Organisation. In India the three major contributors to GDP namely private consumption, investment and external trade will all get affected. World and Indian economy are attempting to mitigate the health risks of COVID-19 with the economic risks and necessary measures necessary will be taken to improve it. -KUMARI LILI
Eduindex 
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