India-Australia Cooperation in field of Public Administration and Governance Reforms

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On the second day of his visit to Namsai district, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh reviewed the district’s performance under the Aspirational District Programme (ADP). Emphasizing collaboration, convergence, and competition, he underscored the transformative impact of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and said, PM Modi has made Northeast an essential part of India’s mainstream growth story.

The Minister noted that before 2014, the region often felt alienated from the rest of the country. Today, it stands as an integral part of India’s cultural and developmental landscape. Citing examples such as youth from the North East excelling in the tourism and aviation industries, Dr. Jitendra Singh stressed the strides made in fostering a sense of belonging and national integration.

Highlighting good practices in Namsai, he pointed out initiatives such as integrating Anganwadi Centres with schools to improve early childhood education and health outcomes and the innovative “Pehli Sawari” ambulance service for newborns. Such ideas, he said, are worth replicating across other aspirational districts.

Dr Jitendra Singh appreciated the fact that the Namsai district has emerged as a beacon of progress under the Aspirational District Program (ADP), showcasing remarkable improvements across various sectors, including health, education, and infrastructure. The district’s composite score has surged from 35.8 in April 2018 to 54.0 in March 2024, reflecting a 37.64% improvement. This leap has propelled Namsai from the 97th position to the 12th among 112 districts, earning it accolades and substantial rewards under the Sustainable Development Goals – Empowered Action Group (SDG-EAP).

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The health sector in Namsai has witnessed transformative changes. The district has achieved a 100% conversion of sub-centres and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) into Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs). Additionally, 75% of PHCs now comply with Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS), and 70% of specialist services are available in district hospitals. However, challenges remain, such as the acute shortage of General Duty Medical Officers (GDMOs) and nurses, and the absence of radiologists in the district hospital.

Maternal and child health indicators have also shown significant progress. The percentage of pregnant women receiving four or more antenatal care check-ups has increased from 35.46% in April 2018 to 81.3% in March 2024, and institutional deliveries have surged from 46.7% to 117%. The district has also achieved a remarkable 119% immunization rate for children aged 9-11 months.

Namsai’s education sector has made strides in improving literacy and school infrastructure. The district, which has a predominantly rural population with 76% dependent on agriculture, has focused on enhancing government schools, which cater to 67% of the student population. The literacy rate has improved, but it still lags behind state and national averages.

Key initiatives include the renovation of 27 old school buildings, construction of additional classrooms, and provision of computer labs in five government higher secondary schools. The district has also addressed basic amenities, ensuring functional toilets in 81% of schools and drinking water facilities in 98% of schools. The innovative e-fencing software has been implemented to monitor attendance and reduce absenteeism.

The district’s progress is a result of collaborative efforts involving various stakeholders. Significant projects include the construction of a laboratory building and an OPD building under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, the establishment of model Anganwadi Centres, and the provision of modern diagnostic equipment for district hospitals and Community Health Centres (CHCs). The “Pehli Sawari” initiative, funded by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), provides free ambulance services for institutional deliveries, further enhancing maternal health outcomes.

Agriculture and Infrastructure: Addressing Challenges and Leveraging Potential

Agriculture remains a critical sector for Namsai, with 74% of the population engaged in farming. The district faces challenges such as inadequate irrigation facilities, exploitation by middlemen, and low productivity of local livestock. However, the fertile plains and excellent road connectivity offer significant potential for agricultural diversification and agro-based industries.

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Infrastructure development has also been a priority, with 100% household electrification, improved road connectivity under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and enhanced access to potable water and sanitation facilities.

Namsai’s journey under the ADP serves as a model for other aspirational districts. The district’s comprehensive approach, focusing on health, education, and infrastructure, coupled with collaborative efforts, has yielded significant improvements. As Namsai continues to address its challenges and leverage its potential, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of targeted development programs.

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Dr. Jitendra Singh’s visit not only showcased the achievements of Namsai but also highlighted its potential as a model for other districts. The Minister emphasized that such targeted developmental efforts demonstrate how collaboration and innovative practices can overcome challenges and drive inclusive growth.

As Namsai continues its journey of progress, its story serves as an inspiration for aspirational districts across India. The Minister’s visit has reignited focus on leveraging local potential and ensuring equitable development, aligning with the government’s vision of a self-reliant and inclusive India.

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Ease of Living for the Pensioners through Digital Empowerment: DLC (Digital Life Certificate) Campaign 3.0

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Jeevan Pramaan is the vision of the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi for Digital Empowerment of Pensioners. All key stakeholders – Pension disbursing banks, Department of Pensions and Pensioners Welfare, Controller General of Defence Accounts, Ministry of Railways, Department of Telecom, Department of Posts, IIPB, UIDAI and Pensioners Welfare Associations are working with whole of government approach to realise the vision of Digital Empowerment of Pensioners.

Department of Pensions and Pensioners Welfare launched the Nation-wide Digital Life Certificate Campaign 3.0 for Digital Empowerment of Pensioners at National Media Center, New Delhi on 6th November 2024. The DLC Campaign 3.0 is being held in 800 cities/ towns of India from November 1-30, 2024. 1575 camps have been held from November 1-17, 2024 in 800 cities/districts, 1.8 lac postmen deployed across the country.

In this campaign, the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare is putting all efforts to create awareness amongst all pensioners regarding DLC-Face Authentication technique by way of banners / posters placed strategically in offices and all Bank Branches / ATMs. All Banks have created a team of dedicated staff at their branches having downloaded the desired apps in their smart phones who are using this technology extensively for submission of Life Certificates by the pensioners. In case, the pensioners are not able to visit the Branches due to old age/illness/weakness, the Bank officials are also visiting their homes/hospitals for the above purpose.

The Pensioners’ Welfare Associations are extending their full support to the Campaign. Their representatives are motivating the pensioners to visit the nearby Camp locations and submit their DLCs. The officials from Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare are also visited major locations through-out the Country to assist pensioners in use of various digital modes to submit their Life Certificates and monitoring the progress very closely.

As a result, Digital Life Certificate (DLC) Campaign 3.0 has made remarkable progress by the end of 2nd second week, achieving significant milestones in its mission to bring convenience and accessibility to pensioners across the nation. The campaign has successfully generated over 77 lacs Digital Life Certificates by the end of 2nd week of launch of the 3.0 Campaign, out of which about 1,77,153 pensioners above 90 years old and 17,212 pensioners between 80 – 90 years category could submit their DLCs from the comfort of their home/locations/offices/branches. This incredible momentum underscores the commitment of our pensioners, banking institutions, and government agencies towards a digitally empowered India. A lot of excitement has been observed amongst all the stakeholders, particularly sick / very old pensioners at all the locations.

Key highlights of the campaign include:

  • Mega Camps: As part of the Campaign, 4 Mega camps have been organized, 2 in Delhi (4-5 November), 1 in Bengaluru (8 November) and 1 in Hyderabad (12 November) involving all stakeholders. Secretary PPW participated in all these camps and encouraged pensioners to adopt digital modes of submission of LCs.
  • Bank-wise Achievements: SBI and PNB are leading the Campaign by generating more than 9 lacs DLCs by the end of 2nd week of the month-long Campaign, while Canara Bank and Central Bank of India registered impressive performances by generating 1 lacs and 57,000 DLCs respectively.
  • State-Wise Progress: Maharashtra led the way with over 10 lacs certificates generated, followed by Tamilnadu and West Bengal 6 lacs each. Uttar Pradesh has also done well with more than 5 lacs DLCs.
  • Departmental Contributions: The Defence Department stood out with a 21 lacs DLCs, while the Telecom Department generated an impressive 3.1 lacs DLCs. Civil Departments also contributed significantly with over 3.4 lacs certificates generated.
  • IPPBs Performance: IPPB generated 4.4 lacs DLCs by the end of 2nd week of the campaign. IPPB has played key role in delivering doorstep delivery of services.
  • Face Authentication: Advanced authentication methods such as Face Recognition contributed to 24 lacs certificates, making up 34% of the total DLCs generated. There is 204 times increase in DLCs submitted through Face Authentication under DLC Campaign 3.0.

This campaign is a testament to DoPPW’s unwavering commitment to harnessing digital tools for the benefit of every pensioner. All stakeholders extended their full support to this campaign. This momentum shall continue to make DLC Campaign 3.0 a historic success.

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IIT Ropar’s Role in Shaping a Self-Reliant Bharat Highlighted at VIVIBHA 2024

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IIT Ropar proudly participated in VIVIBHA 2024, a distinguished three-day national conference organized by Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal (BSM) at SGT University, Gurugram. Themed “Vision for Viksit Bharat,” the event celebrated India’s rich cultural legacy while highlighting pioneering research and innovations that are shaping a self-sustaining nation.

The IIT Ropar TIF – AWaDH stall garnered considerable attention, particularly from Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Education, who interacted with the team to explore the showcased innovations. Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar, also extended his support. In a significant achievement, AWaDH was awarded the Best Stall in the Academia category, recognizing the excellence and societal impact of its presented research.

As part of the “Research to Realisation” exhibition, the IIT Ropar Technology and Innovation Foundation – AWaDH Agriculture and Water Technology Development Hub showcased its transformative technologies that promote sustainable solutions in agriculture, water management, and environmental conservation. Key innovations on display included Moohsense: An AI-driven livestock management system; Digital Entomologist: A biodiversity monitoring tool; Nanobubble Technology for Water Purification; Air Sense: Advanced air quality sensors, and Soil Health Monitoring System: Precision farming tools for improved productivity.

VIVIBHA 2024’s focus on integrating Bharat-centric research with India’s vibrant cultural heritage closely aligns with AWaDH’s mission. The event reaffirmed the commitment to bridging tradition with cutting-edge technologies for a sustainable and prosperous future.

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‘One Day One Genome’ initiative to harness the microbial potential of India

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The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) introducesthe ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative to showcase the enormous microbial potentialof India. Shri.Amitabh Kant, India’s G-20 Sherpa and Former CEO NITI announced the launch of ‘One Day One Genome Initiative’ on the 1st foundation day of BRIC held in National Institute of Immunology (NII), New Delhi on 9th November 2024

‘One Day One Genome’ initiative will highlight the unique bacterial species found in our country and emphasize their critical roles in environment, agriculture and the human health.Microorganisms are crucial for our ecosystem. They play an important role in all biogeochemical cycles, soil formation, mineral purification, degradation of organic wastes and toxic pollutants along with methane production. Cumulatively they help to maintain the homeostasis in our planet. In agriculture, they help in nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, maintaining soil fertility, controlling pest and weeds and stress responses. Microorganisms symbiotically associate with plants and help them in nutrient and water uptake. They are indispensable part of human body. There are much more microbial cells than the number of human cells in a human body. They are essential for our digestion, immunity and even mental health. All infectious diseases are mainly caused by pathogenic microorganisms on the other hand non-pathogenic microorganisms are indispensable for our defense against infectious diseases.

Genome sequencing will allow the visualization of the hidden potential of the microbial world to the community at large. Sequencing data can be analyzed to identify the genome encoded capacities for various important enzymes, antimicrobial resistance, bio active compounds etc. Research in this field will lead to the benefit of better protection and management of our environment, development in agriculture and improvement in human health.

This initiative coordinated by Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council-National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (BRIC-NIBMG) an institute of the Department of Biotechnology.This initiative aims a release a fully annotated bacteriological genome isolated in the country freely available to the public. This will be complemented with a detailed graphical summary, infographics and genome assembly/annotation details. These documents will thus give an idea about the scientific and industrial use of these microbes. Consequently, microbial genomics data will become more accessible to the general public, scientific researchers and thereby stimulate discussions; innovations directly benefit the entire community and ecosystem.

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Architect of Pollen development & Seed formation identified

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Scientists have identified a novel gene that plays a crucial role in the development of stamens (male reproductive structure) including pollen grain and seed formation, in Arabidopsis flowering plants related to cabbage and mustard. The study opens up new possibilities for improving crop fertility and seed production.

Pollen formation represents a very important developmental stage in plant life cycle. It represents the male gametophyte and its role is to deliver the genetic material to the embryo sac. The production and transfer of viable pollen grains to the stigma, germination of the pollen grains, growth of the pollen tubes down the style, and effective fertilization are necessary for the formation of a successful seed set. Thus, understanding the pollen development process not only elucidate the basic mechanism of sexual reproduction of flowering plants but also add valuable information for subsequent manipulation in crop production.

“Pollen germination speed” and “pollen tube growth” are the two important characteristic features of healthy pollens that have evolved with the evolution in flowering plants (Angiosperms). The rapid growth of the pollen tube through the style to reach ovary, is a pre-requisite for fertilization in flowering plants. Since many pollen tubes grow through the style, the reproductive success of a pollen grain is determined by its rate of pollen tube elongation.

It has been shown that maturation of pollen grain with proper structure and composition of cell wall determines its interaction with the stigma as well as its germination ability for successful fertilization. Thus, it is important to understand the molecular mechanisms responsible for pollen development, pollen hydration and pollen germination- factors that are responsible for the formation of a mature viable pollen grains.

Recent investigations on pollen development by Prof. Shubho Chaudhuri’s lab at Bose Institute, Kolkata, an autonomous institution of Department of Science and Technology, identified a novel gene named HMGB15, a non-histone protein that restructures chromatin, plays a crucial role in the development of stamens (male reproductive structure) in Arabidopsis.

A mutation in this gene, causes partial male sterility in plants. The mutant plants exhibit low pollen grain viability, defective pollen wall patterning, retarded pollen tube germination rate, shorter filaments that are unable to reach the stigma resulting in reduced seed production. The abnormalities in the mutants are due to the disruption in gene regulatory networks important for pollen development, maturation and pollen tube germination.

Molecular analysis indicated that several developmental pathways like biosynthesis of phytohormone jasmonic acid (JA), apoptosis of tapetal cells and actin polymerization dynamics have been severely affected in the HMGB15 loss of function mutants.

Understanding this mechanism on a  model organism used for studying plant biology, not only sheds light on the intricate biology of plants but also opens new possibilities for improving crop fertility and seed production. The studies have been published in reputed plant journals namely, Plant Physiology (Sachdev et al., 2024) and Plant Reproduction (Biswas et al., 2024).  Financial support for this work was provided by SERB, India.

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South Asia’s Largest Maritime Thought Leadership Summit Begins, aims to foster Global Maritime Cooperation

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Sagarmanthan – The Great Oceans Dialogue, the South Asia’s largest Maritime Thought Leadership summit, began here today. The inaugural session was addressed by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal; the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Greece, Christos Stylianides; the Minister of State for Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Maldives, Dr Amzath Ahmed; the National Representative for the Province of Rio Negro, Argentina, Ms Maria Lorena Villaverde; the Secretary of MoPSW, TK Ramachandran along with the President, Observer Research Foundation (ORF), Samir Saran in the presence of representatives from 61 countries along with hundreds of delegates from maritime sector.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) of the Government of India, in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation, is organising the two-day event, Sagar Manthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue. The initiative brings together global policymakers, maritime experts, industry leaders, and scholars to deliberate on advancing sustainable and innovative maritime practices.

Speaking at the inaugural session, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “India’s Maritime Vision 2047 is a roadmap to transform the maritime sector by fostering sustainability, enhancing connectivity, and leveraging technology. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, our ministry through initiatives like Sagarmala and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision is aiming at making India a leader in global maritime trade, achieving our goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. Our vision aims to revolutionise India’s maritime sector with an investment of ₹80 lakh crores to enhance port capacity, shipping, ship building inland waterways. Key projects include the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala, new mega ports at Vadhavan in Maharashtra, and Galathea Bay in Nicobar. By 2047, India targets a port handling capacity of 10,000 million metric tons per annum, leveraging strategic trade routes through initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor. Reviving its shipbuilding legacy, India is constructing the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal while advancing clean-fuel shipbuilding to meet future sustainability goals.”

The dialogue underscores India’s strategic role in global trade, with a 7,500 kilometers coastline and strategic islands that bolster its maritime potential. The event also highlights the nation’s commitment to the decarbonisation of the maritime sector through green initiatives such as the Harit Sagar Guidelines and the National Green Hydrogen Mission. 

Setting the context for the mega deliberations and discussion, Sarbananda Sonowal further added, “Recognising India’s maritime potential and its significance for economic growth, our government has implemented crucial policy measures for the ‘Blue and Ocean-based Economy’ over the last decade. Our participation in initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor underscores our commitment to strengthening global trade partnerships. We are also preparing to build future ships that run on clean fuels like ammonia, hydrogen, and electric, capable of traversing brown, green, and blue waters. Our Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047 has placed great emphasis on climate action and environmental sustainability.”

The Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Greece, Christos Stylianides, said, “For us policy makers, it is crucial to ensure a stable regulatory framework and a global level playing field for the industry. It is now time to set the foundations for forward-looking and realistic policies which will the current maritime challenges into opportunities. International transport systems with shipping at its core as an integral part, should serve the three pillars of sustainability: the environmental, the social and the economic one. This will be done by optimising efficiency in connectivity, minimising pollution and ensuring resilience across the entire maritime chain. What we need now is collaboration and the ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue’ is a great example in this direction. It is in our hands, in a spirit of partnership, to make this happen.”

The Minister of State, MoPSW, Shantanu Thakur highlighted the socio-economic potential of coastal communities and the need for global partnerships. The Minister stated, “India’s economic growth is guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—‘The World is One Family.’ Our ports and shipping corridors are not just about commerce but about connectivity, collaboration, and care for coastal communities and the environment. The oceans must be a global priority, not just for economic development but for ecological preservation and energy innovation.”

Speaking about this maiden initiative – Sagarmanthan, the Member, Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (PM-EAC), Sanjeev Sanyal said, “This should serve as a guiding principle for all of us to strengthen and grow our maritime cluster. Our goal is to position ourselves at the forefront of the maritime sector, and to achieve this, we must draw on the expertise of industry leaders who set benchmarks across various verticals. The seas and oceans, gifts of nature, are abundant with resources, energy, and potential. It is our responsibility to harness them wisely, combining knowledge and skill to achieve sustainable growth. Our commitment must ensure that both the economy and ecology thrive in harmony, fostering progress without compromise. We have the technology, the young workers, the trade volume, the steel and the coastline – all the ingredients. So we should aspire in 10 years to build 10-12 per cent of the world’s ships and own/flag 8 per cent.”

On the sidelines of Sagarmanthan, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal participated in a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy go Greece, Christos Stylianides here today. The two leaders discussed an array of topics and agreed to deepen the maritime relationship between the two countries. Both the leaders agreed to expand trade from the existing US$ 1.94 billion to doubling it by focussing on broadening, increasing, and balancing by 2030.

Speaking after the meeting, the Union Minister, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “It was a good meeting that we had here on the sidelines of Sagarmanthan here today. We discussed on collaboration and cooperation in multiple areas of maritime sector between the two countries. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India further deepened its bilateral relationship into strategic relationship with Greece. With this platform, India is working with Greece to expand economic cooperation with the European Union market. Given the economic potential in the Indian market, I am also reaching out shipping industries of Greece to consider setting their operations here through His Excellency the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy of Greece.”

The two maritime ministers also discussed underscored the importance of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on maritime and shipping issues as important bilateral institutional mechanisms for consolidating sector specific cooperation. Both the  leaders agreed to optimally use strategic maritime assets towards sustainable development. Given the rich heritage of both the nations, the ministers agreed to collaborate at the ongoing development of National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal, Gujarat by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and Government of India. The talks also touched important subjects like renewable energy, cultural and educational cooperation in maritime studies and explore multiple areas of maritime infrastructure development and its potential.

The two day forum’s agenda includes sessions on maritime connectivity, sustainable development, technological innovation, and global maritime governance. The Ministry also showcased India’s advancements in port digitisation, renewable energy integration, and decarbonised shipping, reflecting the nation’s vision of becoming a global maritime hub. The Dialogue featured participants from 60 countries across the globe with more than 1700 participants including ministers, former heads of state and government, journalists, and experts.

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Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) – Quarterly Bulletin [July – September 2024]

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Key findings

  • Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in urban areas among persons of age 15 years and above has increased from 49.3% during July – September, 2023 to 50.4% in July – September, 2024.
  • LFPR for male of age 15 years and above in urban areas increased from 73.8% during July – September, 2023 to 75.0% during July – September, 2024 reflecting overall increasing trend in male LFPR.
  • LFPR among female of age 15 years and above for urban areas increased from 24.0% during July – September, 2023 to 25.5% during July – September, 2024.
  • Worker Population Ratio (WPR) in urban areas among persons of age 15 years and above has increased from 46.0% during July – September, 2023 to 47.2% in July – September, 2024.
  • WPR for male of age 15 years and above for urban areas increased from 69.4% in July – September, 2023 to 70.7% during July – September, 2024 reflecting overall increasing trend in male WPR.
  • Unemployment Rate (UR) in urban areas among persons of age 15 years and above decreased from 6.6% during July – September, 2023 to 6.4% during July – September, 2024.
  • UR among males of age 15 years and above decreased from 6.0% during July – September, 2023 to 5.7% in July – September, 2024. UR among female of age 15 years and above decreased from 8.6% in July – September, 2023 to 8.4% in July – September, 2024.

A.         Introduction

Considering the importance of availability of labour force data at more frequent time intervals, National Statistics Office (NSO) launched Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) in April 2017.

The objective of PLFS is primarily twofold:

  • to estimate the key employment and unemployment indicators (viz. Worker Population Ratio, Labour Force Participation Rate, Unemployment Rate) in the short time interval of three months for the urban areas only in the ‘Current Weekly Status’ (CWS).
  • to estimate employment and unemployment indicators in both ‘Usual Status’ (ps+ss) and CWS in both rural and urban areas annually.

Twenty-three Quarterly Bulletins of PLFS corresponding to the quarter ending December 2018 to quarter ending June 2024 have already been released. In these quarterly bulletins estimates of labour force indicators, viz., Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR), Unemployment Rate (UR), distribution of workers by broad status in employment and industry of work in the Current Weekly Status (CWS) for urban areas have been presented.

The present Quarterly Bulletin is the twenty-fourth in the series for the quarter July – September, 2024.

PLFS fieldwork during the quarter July – September 2024

The fieldwork for collection of information in respect of all the samples allotted for the period July-September, 2024, were completed timely for the first visit as well as revisit samples, except for 15 first visit FSU[1]s (4 in Maharashtra, 3 each in Manipur and Madhya Pradesh, 2 in Kerala, 1 each in Odisha, Assam and Andaman and Nicobar Islands) and 5 revisit FSUs (2 in Maharashtra and 1 each in Gujarat, Meghalaya and Uttar Pradesh) which were treated as casualty.

These aspects may be kept in mind while using the estimates of PLFS for the concerned quarter.

B.         Sample Design of PLFS

A rotational panel sampling design has been used in urban areas. In this rotational panel scheme, each selected household in urban areas is visited four times, in the beginning with ‘First Visit Schedule’ and thrice periodically later with a ‘Revisit Schedule’. The scheme of rotation ensures that 75% of the first-stage sampling units (FSUs) are matched between two consecutive visits.

C.         Sample Size

At the all-India level, in the urban areas, a total number of 5,739 FSUs (urban sampling unit curved out from Urban Frame Survey) have been surveyed during the quarter July – September 2024. The number of urban households surveyed was 45,005 and number of persons surveyed was 1,70,598 in urban areas.

  1. Conceptual Framework of Key Employment and Unemployment Indicators for the Quarterly Bulletin: The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) gives estimates of key employment and unemployment Indicators like the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR), Unemployment Rate (UR), etc. These indicators, and ‘Current Weekly Status’ are defined as follows:
  1. Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): LFPR is defined as the percentage of persons in labour force (i.e. working or seeking or available for work) in the population.
  1. Worker Population Ratio (WPR): WPR is defined as the percentage of employed persons in the population.
  1. Unemployment Rate (UR): UR is defined as the percentage of persons unemployed among the persons in the labour force.
  1. Current Weekly Status (CWS): The activity status determined on the basis of a reference period of last 7 days preceding the date of survey is known as the current weekly status (CWS) of the person.
  1. The Quarterly Bulletin for the quarter July – September 2024 is available at the website of the Ministry (https://mospi.gov.in). The key results are given in the statements annexed.

Annexure

Key Findings of PLFS, Quarterly Bulletin (July – September 2024)

  1. Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for persons of age 15 years and above

LFPR in urban areas was 50.4% in July – September 2024 for persons of age 15 years in above. While for male LFPR was 75.0% in July – September 2024, for female, LFPR was 25.5% during this period.

Statement 1:  LFPR (in per cent) in CWS in urban areas for persons of age 15 years and aboveall‑India
survey periodMaleFemalePerson
(1)(2)(3)(4)
July – September 202373.824.049.3
October – December 202374.125.049.9
January – March 202474.425.650.2
April – June 202474.725.250.1
July – September 202475.025.550.4
  1. Worker Population Ratio (WPR) for persons of age 15 years and above

WPR in urban areas was 47.2% in July – September 2024 for persons of age 15 years in above. For male, it was 70.7% in July – September 2024, for female, it was 23.4% during this period.

Statement 2:  WPR (in per cent) in CWS in urban areas for persons of age 15 years and aboveall‑India
survey periodMaleFemalePerson
(1)(2)(3)(4)
July – September 202369.421.946.0
October – December 202369.822.946.6
January – March 202469.823.446.9
April – June 202470.423.046.8
July – September 202470.723.447.2
  1. Unemployment Rate (UR) for persons of age 15 years and above

Unemployment Rate in urban areas was 6.4% in July – September 2024 for persons of age 15 years in above. For male, Unemployment Rate was 5.7% in July – September 2024 and for female, UR was 8.4% during the same period.

Statement 3:  UR (in per cent) in CWS in urban areas for persons of age 15 years and aboveall‑India
survey periodMaleFemalePerson
(1)(2)(3)(4)
July – September 20236.08.66.6
October – December 20235.88.66.5
January – March 20246.18.56.7
April – June 20245.89.06.6
July – September 20245.78.46.4

E. Highlights of the Quarterly estimates of key Labour Market indicators

  1. Trend in Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for persons of age 15 years and above since 2022

The trend in LFPR in urban areas since the quarter January – March, 2022 for male and female are presented in figure 1 and 2.

  1. Trend in Worker Population Ratio (WPR) for persons of age 15 years and above since 2022

The trend in WPR in urban areas since the quarter January – March, 2022 for male and female are presented in figure 3 and 4.

  1. Trend in Unemployment Rate (UR) for persons of age 15 years and above since 2022

The trend in UR in urban areas since the quarter January – March, 2022 for male and female are presented in figure 5 and 6.

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Bharat NCX 2024 Officially Inaugurated: Strengthening Cyber Defense and Strategic Decision-Making Across India

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The Bharat National Cyber Security Exercise (Bharat NCX 2024), a landmark initiative to fortify India’s cybersecurity resilience, was inaugurated today at a high-profile ceremony organized by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) in collaboration with Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU). The 12-day exercise is a critical step in preparing India’s cybersecurity professionals and leadership to tackle evolving threats with advanced cyber defense, incident response capabilities, and strategic decision-making.

In his Inaugural Address, Lt Gen M. U. Nair, PVSM, AVSM, SM (Retd), the National Cyber Security Coordinator, stated, “Bharat NCX 2024 equips our nation’s cyber defenders and leaders with the skills to mitigate complex threats. From technical exercises to strategic decision-making, this initiative ensures our preparedness to manage crises at all levels.”

Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel, Vice Chancellor of RRU, delivered the Keynote Address, highlighting the integration of education, research, and innovation in addressing cybersecurity challenges. He remarked, “This exercise not only strengthens technical skills but also prepares leadership to navigate national-level cyber crises through informed decision-making.”

Key Features of Bharat NCX 2024: The exercise includes immersive training on cyber defense and incident response, live-fire simulations of cyberattacks on IT and OT systems, and collaborative platforms for government and industry stakeholders. A Strategic Decision-Making Exercise will bring together senior management from across sectors to simulate decision-making in a national-level cyber crisis, enhancing their ability to respond to high-pressure situations with strategic acumen. The CISO’s Conclave will feature Chief Information Security Officers from government, public, and private sectors sharing insights, participating in panel discussions, and exploring the latest trends and government initiatives in cybersecurity. On the sidelines, the Bharat Cybersecurity Startup Exhibition will showcase innovative solutions from Indian startups, emphasizing their role in enhancing the nation’s cybersecurity infrastructure. The exercise also highlights leadership engagement and capacity building, fostering a unified approach to emerging cyber challenges.

The event runs from November 18 to November 29, 2024, culminating in a comprehensive debrief to consolidate lessons learned and establish best practices in cybersecurity.

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NHRC, India organizes a three-day capacity building programme on human rights for the State Human Rights Commission, Arunachal Pradesh

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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India is organizing a three-day Capacity Building Programme on human rights for the officials of State Human Rights Commission, Arunachal Pradesh, at New Delhi. The programme is a part of the ongoing initiative of the Commission to reach out and help in the capacity building of the State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs) for protection and promotion of human rights of all. The NHRC works in tandem with SHRCs and other such bodies to protect and promote human rights in the country.

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In his opening remarks, Mr Bharat Lal, Secretary General, NHRC emphasized that sensitivity, promptness and responsiveness are important traits to dealing with human rights issues and violations. The NHRC and SHRCs are part of a framework in the country to ameliorate the cause of human rights. The programme has been designed for having interactive sessions.

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Mr Lal underscored the importance of proactive and speedy redressal of complaints to provide relief to the victims of human rights violations. This would help people to develop faith in the system. The three-day programme would enable the officers to understand how the system should be functioning. He expressed the hope that the exposure to the structured functioning of the NHRC, within the ambit of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 would be useful for the officers of the APSHRC.

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Earlier, the APSHRC Acting Chairperson, Mr Bamang Tago thanked the NHRC, India for organizing this programme. He said that the APSHRC is relatively a new SHRC, therefore, this capacity building programme is crucial for its officers, particularly in terms of learning the handling, registration and disposal of cases from the NHRC given its experience over the past three decades. He expressed the hope that the training would help not only the SHRC as an organization but also each participant individually in deepening their understanding of human values and the rights in the country.

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At the start of the 3-day programme, Shri Devendra Kumar Nim, Joint Secretary, NHRC said that it would equip the officers towards promoting and protecting the rights of the people. Their exposure to the functioning of the NHRC which inter alia includes registration and processing of complaints, enquiries, training, research, international mechanism, outreach activities, media and communication, publications, etc. may support them in carrying out their work more efficiently and effectively, to build a shared vision of protecting and promoting human rights in the country.

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Grievance Redressal Assessment And Index (GRAI) 2023 Launched On 18 November 2024

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Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; Minister of State (Independent Charge) Earth Sciences; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh has launched Grievance Redressal Assessment and Index (GRAI) 2023 in the presence of Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), Govt. of India.

Grievance Redressal Assessment and Index (GRAI) was conceptualized and designed by the DARPG, Govt. of India based on the recommendation of Parliamentary Standing Committee of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions with an objective to present organigation-wise comparative picture and provide valuable insights about strengths and areas of improvement regarding grievance redressal mechanism. The first edition of GRAI 2022 was released on 21 June 2023.

Eighty-nine Central Ministries and Departments were assessed and ranked based on a comprehensive index in the dimensions of (1) Efficiency, (2) Feedback, (3) Domain and (4) Organisational Commitment and corresponding 11 indicators. To compute the index, data between January and December 2023was used from the Centralised Public Grievance Redressal and Management System (CPGRAMS).

As part of GRAI, Ministries and Departments are grouped in three groups based on the number of grievances registered in calendar year 2023 at CPGRAMS viz.

GroupsRegistered Grievance RangeNo. of Ministries/Departments
Aregistered grievances > 10,00028
Bregistered grievances 2,000 to 9,99933
Cregistered grievances < 2,00028

Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, O/o the Comptroller & Auditor General of India and Department of Investment & Public Asset Management have topped the rankings in Group A, B and C respectively. A detailed list with top three Ministries and Departments in composite and dimension-wise ranking is as follows:

#Rank 1Rank 2Rank 3
Group A:Grievances > 10,000CompositeDepartment of Agriculture and Farmers WelfareDepartment of PostsMinistry of Cooperation
EfficiencyMinistry of CooperationDepartment of TelecommunicationsMinistry of Labour and Employment
FeedbackDepartment of Agriculture and Farmers WelfareCentral Board of Direct Taxes (Income Tax)Department of Defence
DomainUnique Identification Authority of IndiaMinistry of Home AffairsMinistry of Cooperation
Organisational CommitmentDepartment of PostsDepartment of TelecommunicationsMinistry of Corporate Affairs
Group B:Grievances 2,000 – 9,999CompositeO/o the Comptroller & Auditor General of IndiaDepartment of Land ResourcesNITI Aayog
EfficiencyDepartment of Legal AffairsDepartment of Land ResourcesNITI Aayog
FeedbackO/o the Comptroller & Auditor General of IndiaDepartment of ExpenditureDepartment of Financial Services (Pension Reforms)
DomainDepartment of Land ResourcesMinistry of Parliamentary AffairsMinistry of Drinking Water and Sanitation
Organisational CommitmentDepartment of Empowerment of Persons with DisabilitiesDepartment of Land ResourcesMinistry of Ayush
Group C:Grievances < 2,000CompositeDepartment of Investment & Public Asset ManagementMinistry of Development of North Eastern RegionDepartment of Pharmaceuticals
EfficiencyDepartment of Investment & Public Asset ManagementMinistry of Development of North Eastern RegionMinistry of Mines
FeedbackDepartment of PharmaceuticalsDepartment of Public EnterprisesDepartment of Investment & Public Asset Management
DomainMinistry of Development of North Eastern RegionDepartment of Youth AffairsDepartment of Bio Technology
Organisational CommitmentDepartment of Official LanguageDepartment of Chemicals and PetrochemicalsLegislative Department

In the GRAI 2023report released by DARPG, detailed Root-Cause Analysis has been included with specific inputs on areas of further improvement. This report presents a two-dimensional (vertical and horizontal) analysis of the root causes of effective redressal of grievances of each Ministries and Departments in an easily discernible colour coded analysis. The report also presents brief description of technical partners DARPG has engaged to facilitate the Ministries and Departments to optimally utilize CPGRAMS as a means of effective grievance redressal media.

Over the years, CPGRAMS has become a key tool for enhancing government accountability and transparency by enabling citizens to file and track grievances online. The Commonwealth Secretariat has recognised CPGRAMSas a best practice in Commonwealth Secretaries of Public Service / Secretaries to Cabinet meeting in April 2024.

The GRAI 2023 report presents a clear roadmap with an advisory for the Ministries and Departments to leverage CPGRAMS and its features like IGMS 2.0, TreeDashboard, etc., to enhance grievance redressal. The roadmap for improvement emphasizes integrating advanced technologies like AI and ML for data analysis, predictive analytics and preventive measures while revising ATR formats for better reporting. Capacity building for GROs, enhancing accountability through audits and extending CPGRAMS integration to the third-tier of government are key recommendations.

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ESCI Journals of Clarivate: An In-Depth Overview

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ESCI stands for the Emerging Sources Citation Index, a research database managed by Clarivate, which is a global leader in research analytics. The ESCI was launched in 2015 as part of Web of Science, a platform that includes several well-known citation indices, such as the Science Citation Index (SCI), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), and Arts & Humanities Citation Index (AHCI).

ESCI journals represent a category of scholarly journals that are in the process of being evaluated for inclusion in the more prestigious citation indices, such as SCI or SSCI. These journals are typically emerging or have demonstrated an increasing impact in their respective fields but have not yet achieved the citation levels or broad recognition necessary for inclusion in the more established indices.

In this article, we will dive into the following aspects of ESCI journals within Clarivate’s Web of Science:

  1. What is ESCI?
  2. Criteria for ESCI Journal Inclusion
  3. Differences Between ESCI and Other Citation Indices
  4. Importance of ESCI Journals
  5. How ESCI Affects Researchers and Authors
  6. How Journals Get Indexed in ESCI
  7. List of ESCI Journals and their Scope
  8. ESCI Journals and Academic Career Progression

1. What is ESCI?

The Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI) is an index introduced by Clarivate Analytics (formerly Thomson Reuters) to serve as a middle ground between unindexed journals and those included in well-established citation indices like the Science Citation Index (SCI) or the Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI).

ESCI includes journals that may not yet meet the rigorous standards for the established indices but are still recognized as valuable sources of scholarly content. These journals often focus on emerging fields, new interdisciplinary research, or regional content that may not yet have global visibility but is still highly relevant to specific academic or scientific communities.

Inclusion in ESCI signals that a journal is considered to have academic merit and is on track to potentially gain recognition in broader academic circles. However, it does not yet have the citation impact that journals in SCI or SSCI indices typically do.

2. Criteria for ESCI Journal Inclusion

Clarivate has a set of standards for selecting journals for inclusion in the ESCI. While the specific criteria are not fully disclosed, the following factors are generally considered:

  • Academic Quality: Journals must demonstrate scholarly rigor in their editorial process, peer-review practices, and the quality of articles they publish. This includes having professional editorial boards, following international standards for peer review, and ensuring transparency in publishing practices.
  • Relevance: ESCI journals should have a subject focus that is emerging or growing, offering high relevance to a specific academic community or niche research area. These could include rapidly developing disciplines, innovative interdisciplinary research, or underrepresented geographical or linguistic regions.
  • Citation Potential: Journals are evaluated for their citation potential. Although ESCI journals may not have extensive citation data initially, they are expected to grow in influence and impact. This is a key distinction between ESCI journals and those indexed in more established indices, which typically have higher citation numbers and long-term academic impact.
  • Publication Frequency and Editorial Content: ESCI journals are expected to maintain a regular publication schedule, typically with a certain minimum number of issues published per year. The editorial content must align with scholarly communication practices, including original research articles, reviews, and other accepted types of scholarly work.
  • International Coverage: Clarivate typically prefers journals that have an international scope or appeal, but regional journals that demonstrate a strong impact within a particular academic or geographic community may also be included.

3. Differences Between ESCI and Other Citation Indices

Clarivate’s citation indices, like SCI, SSCI, and AHCI, are highly selective and include journals that have achieved a certain level of citation impact, which is typically a sign of broad recognition and influence within their respective disciplines. ESCI, on the other hand, includes journals that may not yet have reached these citation thresholds but show promise and potential for future growth. Here’s a comparison:

AspectESCISCI/SSCI/AHCI
Citation ImpactEmerging, but lower citation impact compared to SCI/SSCIEstablished journals with high citation counts
Journal SelectionBased on quality and potential for growthBased on long-term citation performance and prestige
ScopeNew or emerging fields, interdisciplinary, or regional journalsEstablished fields with broad global reach and historical significance
Indexing RequirementsJournals must show academic merit but have limited citation historyJournals must demonstrate sustained academic impact and citation frequency
AudienceNiche, emerging scholarly communitiesGlobal, well-established academic communities

4. Importance of ESCI Journals

While ESCI journals may not have the same level of global recognition as those indexed in SCI or SSCI, they play a vital role in the academic publishing ecosystem. Here are several reasons why ESCI journals are important:

  • Supporting Emerging Research: ESCI serves as a platform for emerging or niche research areas that may not yet have significant visibility but are rapidly growing or developing. These journals can contribute to advancing knowledge in areas such as new technologies, interdisciplinary fields, or research that is regionally important.
  • Increasing Journal Diversity: By including journals from different regions and less mainstream disciplines, ESCI helps diversify the global academic publishing landscape. It provides a voice for scholars working in underrepresented fields or regions.
  • Providing Access to Scholarly Work: ESCI journals offer access to high-quality research in emerging fields. This is particularly useful for researchers looking for cutting-edge topics or early-stage developments that haven’t yet been widely covered by established journals.
  • Facilitating Journal Growth: For journals indexed in ESCI, the index serves as a stepping stone to recognition in SCI or SSCI. ESCI inclusion increases a journal’s visibility, helping it attract higher-quality submissions and more citations over time.

5. How ESCI Affects Researchers and Authors

For researchers and authors, publishing in ESCI journals offers both opportunities and challenges:

Opportunities:

  • Early Career Exposure: Researchers, especially those working in emerging or niche fields, can gain early exposure by publishing in ESCI journals. These journals may provide a platform to showcase new and innovative ideas that may not yet fit into larger, more established journals.
  • Increased Visibility: Inclusion in ESCI provides visibility in Web of Science, a globally recognized academic database. Articles published in ESCI journals are discoverable and citable, providing researchers with the opportunity to gain recognition for their work.
  • Potential for Future Recognition: ESCI journals are often viewed as stepping stones to inclusion in more prestigious citation indices like SCI or SSCI. Authors can contribute to the growth and development of these journals, helping them eventually achieve broader recognition.

Challenges:

  • Limited Citation Impact: Due to the emerging nature of ESCI journals, articles published in these journals may not initially receive the same level of citation as those in more established journals. This could affect researchers looking to build their citation profiles early in their careers.
  • Recognition and Prestige: While ESCI inclusion is a positive step, some academic institutions or funding bodies may prioritize journals indexed in more prestigious indices. For authors aiming for high recognition, publishing in ESCI journals may not have the same weight as publishing in SCI or SSCI journals.

6. How Journals Get Indexed in ESCI

Journals that wish to be indexed in ESCI must undergo a thorough evaluation process conducted by Clarivate’s editorial team. This process includes:

  1. Submission of Application: Journals must submit a formal application to Clarivate for inclusion in the ESCI, providing detailed information about their editorial policies, peer-review process, citation practices, and impact potential.
  2. Evaluation: Clarivate evaluates the journal’s editorial content, citation metrics, publishing frequency, and overall quality. This involves an assessment of factors like editorial board composition, adherence to best publishing practices, and the journal’s relevance within its academic field.
  3. Decision and Inclusion: If the journal meets the necessary criteria, it is included in ESCI. Inclusion is based on the overall potential for the journal to grow in citation impact and academic influence.
  4. Ongoing Monitoring: Once a journal is included in ESCI, it is continuously monitored for performance. Clarivate reviews journals on an ongoing basis to ensure they continue to meet the necessary standards for inclusion.

7. List of ESCI Journals and Their Scope

The ESCI includes thousands of journals from various disciplines, including:

  • Sciences: Emerging areas in fields such as biotechnology, environmental science, materials science, and engineering.
  • Social Sciences: New research areas in sociology, anthropology, psychology, education, and business.
  • Arts and Humanities: Journals that focus on niche topics in literature, cultural studies, philosophy, and history.

A detailed list of ESCI journals can be found on the Web of Science platform, where journals are categorized by subject and scope.

8. ESCI Journals and Academic Career Progression

For academic researchers, publishing in ESCI journals can be an important step in their career progression, especially for early-career scholars. ESCI inclusion demonstrates that a journal has academic merit and is being taken seriously within the scholarly community.

Ghost Villages in Uttarakhand

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Migration from the hill areas of Uttarakhand is a concerned issue. Many people especially from far-flung rural areas migrate to nearest towns or cities within or outside the state in search of employment and better educational and health facilities. The continuous migration from some villages have resulted in the absolute desertion of those villages with no inhabiting population left behind. These un-inhabited villages are being termed as Ghost Villages.

As per 2011 Census, there are 1048 villages with zero population and another 44 villages have population less than 10 persons.

Browse the list of ghost villages in Uttarakhand by each districts. Pauri district in Garhwal region and Almora district in Kumaon region contain the most number of ghost villages in Uttarakhand.

DistrictGhost Villages
Almora105
Bageshwar73
Chamoli76
Champawat55
Dehradun17
Hardwar94
Nainital44
Pauri Garhwal331
Pithoragarh103
Rudraprayag35
Tehri Garhwal88
Udham Singh Nagar14
Uttarkashi13

Hira Devi

The film, inspired by Devi’s own life, tells the story of an elderly couple’s love. PITHORAGARH: Hira Devi, 80, is an unlikely film heroine from one of Uttarakhand’s ghost villages, Gadtir, which has several empty houses because of migration. Hira Devi, 80, is an unlikely film heroine from one of Uttarakhand’s ghost villages, Gadtir, which has several empty houses because of migration. The octogenarian, who is illiterate and has lived in the mountain village most of her life, recently got a chance to star in ‘Pyre’, a film inspired by a story similar to her own, which will have its world premiere on Tuesday (Nov 19) at the 28th Tallinn Black Nights International Film Festival in Estonia.

Top Schools in Singapore – World Class Education

Top Schools in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide

Singapore is renowned for its world-class education system, which is often regarded as one of the best in the world. The city-state’s schools are recognized for their rigorous academic standards, comprehensive curriculum, and holistic development of students. Whether you are a local parent or an expatriate family considering relocation, finding the right school is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the top schools in Singapore, categorized by local public schools, international schools, and specialized institutions.

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1. Local Public Schools

Singapore’s local public schools are known for their high academic standards, disciplined environment, and holistic approach to education. These schools are highly competitive, with a focus on core subjects like Mathematics, Science, English, and Mother Tongue languages.

a) Raffles Institution (RI)

Overview: Established in 1823, Raffles Institution is one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in Singapore. It offers a six-year Integrated Programme (IP) that allows students to skip the O-Level examinations and proceed directly to the A-Level exams.

Key Features:

Strong emphasis on academic excellence, leadership, and character development.

Extensive co-curricular activities (CCAs) such as robotics, debate, and sports.

Alumni network that includes prominent leaders, professionals, and public figures.

Location: Bishan, Singapore.

b) Hwa Chong Institution (HCI)

Overview: Known for its rigorous academic curriculum and vibrant school culture, Hwa Chong Institution is another top-tier school offering the Integrated Programme. It focuses on nurturing leaders with a strong sense of social responsibility.

Key Features:

Bilingual education in English and Chinese.

Renowned for its Science and Mathematics programs, including research opportunities.

State-of-the-art facilities, such as a science research center and sports complex.

Location: Bukit Timah, Singapore.

c) Nanyang Girls’ High School (NYGH)

Overview: As one of the top all-girls schools in Singapore, Nanyang Girls’ High School provides an IP that emphasizes both academic excellence and character development.

Key Features:

Bilingual curriculum, with a focus on Chinese culture and language.

Strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) subjects.

Comprehensive CCAs, including performing arts and community service.

Location: Bukit Timah, Singapore.

d) Anglo-Chinese School (Independent)

Overview: A Methodist school with a rich history, ACS (Independent) offers both the Integrated Programme and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, making it a popular choice for both local and international students.

Key Features:

Holistic education approach, focusing on academic excellence, sports, and leadership.

Vibrant co-curricular life with a wide range of clubs, sports, and arts programs.

IB program known for producing high achievers.

Location: Dover Road, Singapore.

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2. International Schools

For expatriate families, Singapore offers a range of high-quality international schools that follow various global curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), American, and British systems.

a) Singapore American School (SAS)

Overview: SAS is one of the largest and most established international schools in Singapore, offering a comprehensive American-based curriculum from pre-kindergarten to Grade 12.

Key Features:

Emphasis on a broad-based education with a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

State-of-the-art facilities, including a new high school building with modern learning spaces.

Strong focus on arts, sports, and extracurricular activities.

Location: Woodlands, Singapore.

b) United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA)

Overview: Part of the global United World College network, UWCSEA is known for its diverse student body and rigorous IB curriculum. It offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP).

Key Features:

Focus on holistic education, sustainability, and service learning.

Extensive co-curricular activities, including sports, arts, and outdoor education.

Two campuses with world-class facilities, including theaters, swimming pools, and sports fields.

Locations: Dover and East Coast, Singapore.

c) Tanglin Trust School

Overview: A British-based international school, Tanglin Trust offers a blend of the British National Curriculum and the IB Diploma Programme. It caters to students from nursery to pre-university levels.

Key Features:

Strong academic results in IGCSE and IB exams.

Emphasis on pastoral care and student well-being.

Wide range of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and sports.

Location: Bukit Timah, Singapore.

d) Canadian International School (CIS)

Overview: CIS offers the IB curriculum with a focus on inquiry-based learning, catering to students from early years to high school.

Key Features:

Multilingual program with a strong emphasis on language acquisition.

Diverse and inclusive community with students from over 80 nationalities.

Two campuses with modern facilities, including makerspaces and design technology labs.

Locations: Lakeside and Tanjong Katong, Singapore.

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3. Specialized Schools

For students with unique talents or specific learning needs, Singapore offers specialized schools that focus on arts, sports, or academic excellence.

a) School of the Arts (SOTA)

Overview: SOTA is Singapore’s first pre-tertiary specialized arts school, offering a six-year integrated arts and academic curriculum leading to the IB Diploma.

Key Features:

Focus on visual arts, music, theatre, dance, and literary arts.

Holistic education that balances academic rigor with artistic training.

Strong support for students’ creative and artistic pursuits.

Location: Dhoby Ghaut, Singapore.

b) Singapore Sports School

Overview: Established to nurture student-athletes, the Singapore Sports School offers a customized curriculum that balances academics with high-performance sports training.

Key Features:

Training in a wide range of sports, including swimming, badminton, and track & field.

Academic pathways include the O-Level, IB Diploma, and customized sports programs.

Access to specialized sports facilities and coaching.

Location: Woodlands, Singapore.

c) NUS High School of Math and Science

Overview: NUS High School is a specialized independent school that focuses on mathematics, science, and engineering education for gifted students.

Key Features:

Accelerated curriculum with advanced courses in math and science.

Research opportunities and collaborations with universities.

Strong emphasis on STEM education.

Location: Clementi, Singapore.

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4. Admission Process & Tips

Singapore’s top schools are highly competitive, especially for expatriates seeking admission to international schools. Here are some tips to navigate the admission process:

Early Application: Apply as early as possible, as spaces are limited, especially in popular schools.

Entrance Exams & Interviews: Be prepared for entrance exams and interviews, particularly for prestigious schools like RI, HCI, and ACS.

Holistic Assessment: Schools often look for students with a strong academic record, as well as achievements in sports, arts, or community service.

Understand the Curriculum: Choose a school based on the curriculum that aligns with your child’s future education plans, whether it’s the IB, British, American, or local system.

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Conclusion

Singapore offers a diverse range of schooling options, each with its unique strengths. Whether you’re looking for a school that excels in academics, arts, sports, or holistic development, there’s something for every family. The key is to understand your child’s needs and strengths and match them with the right school to ensure a rewarding educational journey.

FAQs

1. What is the best school in Singapore for academic excellence?

Schools like Raffles Institution, Hwa Chong Institution, and Nanyang Girls’ High are known for their rigorous academic programs.

2. Are international schools in Singapore expensive?

Yes, international schools like UWCSEA, SAS, and Tanglin Trust can be quite costly, with annual fees ranging from SGD 25,000 to over SGD 40,000.

3. Can expatriates enroll their children in local public schools?

Yes, but the admission process is competitive, and priority is often given to Singapore citizens and permanent residents.

By understanding the offerings of each school, you can make an informed decision that best fits your child’s educational aspirations and needs.

Creative and Artistic Activities for Seniors: Keeping the Mind Sharp

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Have you ever wondered how to keep your mind sharp as you age?

Engaging in creative and artistic activities can be a powerful way to stay mentally active, improve mood, and bring joy to daily life. Whether it’s painting, writing, or even gardening, these activities not only spark creativity but also help you stay connected to the world around you.

cognitive health with memory care in Kansas City

In this article, we’ll explore fun and simple ways for seniors to keep their minds vibrant and healthy through creative and artistic pursuits.

Painting or Drawing

Painting and drawing are great ways for seniors to express their creativity. They can use different mediums like pencils, charcoal, or paints to create art. These brain boosting art activities help improve focus and fine motor skills as they work on details and shading.

Starting with simple sketches or watercolors is a good option for beginners. More experienced artists may enjoy trying oils or acrylic paints. Creating art can be a relaxing activity that gives seniors a sense of accomplishment.

Crafting

Crafting includes activities like knitting, crocheting, and making jewelry. These activities help keep the hands and mind busy with creative projects. Seniors can create items that are both functional and decorative, such as scarves or bracelets.

Crafting can be a social activity when done with others. It also offers a way for seniors to express their personal style and preferences. The sense of completion from finishing a project can boost self-esteem and well-being.

Writing and Journaling

Writing is an excellent activity to keep the mind active. Seniors can write about their memories, stories, or poems. This allows them to reflect on their life and express their thoughts in words.

Journaling is a simple and helpful way to organize ideas. Writing about daily events or personal experiences helps with memory. It also encourages the practice of thinking critically and creatively.

Music and Dance

Learning to play an instrument can keep the mind sharp and focused. Seniors may also enjoy listening to music, which can bring back memories and boost mood. Music activates different parts of the brain and can be a source of relaxation.

Dance helps with physical coordination and balance. Seniors can enjoy simple movements to music or follow dance routines. It also provides an outlet for self-expression and can increase energy levels.

Puzzles and Brain Games

Puzzles and brain games like Sudoku or crossword puzzles help keep the brain active. These games can improve memory, logic, and problem-solving skills. Seniors can enjoy these activities alone or with friends, making them both fun and beneficial for cognitive health.

Engaging in regular brain exercises, such as puzzles, is a proven way to promote improved cognitive health with memory care in Kansas City. These activities support mental well-being by keeping the brain sharp and alert.

Unlock Your Potential With Creative and Artistic Activities for a Sharper Mind

Engaging in creative and artistic activities can improve the overall well-being of seniors. These activities help maintain mental sharpness and promote a sense of purpose. They also provide opportunities for self-expression and can bring joy to daily life.

By participating in these creative activities for the brain, seniors can stay active, improve their mood, and feel more connected to themselves and others. Creativity offers a powerful way to enhance quality of life.

Did you learn something new from this article? If so, be sure to check out our blog for more educational content.

How to Choose the Right Respite Center for Your Loved One

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Choosing the right respite center for your loved one is an important decision. It’s not just about finding a place for care-it’s about ensuring your family member feels safe, comfortable, and well cared for.

respite care services for seniors in Burlington

A good respite center can provide support when you need a break. In this post, we’ll share some helpful tips to guide you in choosing the best center for your loved one’s needs. Read on.

Understand Your Loved One’s Needs

Before choosing a respite center, take time to understand the needs of your loved one. Do they have specific health conditions or mobility challenges? Knowing these details will help you find a center that can offer the appropriate level of care.

Consider whether your loved one requires special needs care or medical attention. Some centers offer more comprehensive services, including medication management or support for those with dementia. Make sure to ask about the services available at each center.

Check for Accreditation and Licensing

When selecting a respite center, make sure it is properly accredited and licensed. Accreditation ensures that the center follows industry standards for care and safety. A licensed facility is required to meet specific regulations, so you can trust that your loved one will be in good hands.

You can also ask about the staff’s training and experience. It’s important that caregivers are trained to handle specific medical conditions or mobility issues. A well-trained team will provide the best care for your loved one.

Consider the Services Offered

When choosing a respite center, it’s important to consider the services offered. Some centers provide basic care, while others offer specialized services like memory care or physical therapy. You should make sure the center can meet your loved one’s specific health needs.

Look for centers that offer a variety of activities to keep your loved one engaged. This can include recreational programs, social activities, and even educational sessions. If you’re unsure about what’s available, check out these respite care services for seniors in Burlington if you’re looking for a well-regarded option in your area.

Know What’s Covered by Medicare

If your loved one qualifies, it’s important to understand what services are covered by Medicare respite. Some centers offer services that are eligible for Medicare respite benefits. This can help reduce the financial burden on your family while ensuring your loved one receives quality care.

Make sure to ask the center about their Medicare respite policies. If your loved one has special needs or chronic conditions, some centers may offer additional support that is covered by respite care Medicare. This could include personal care, nursing services, and more.

Ensuring Comfort and Care: Selecting the Right Respite Center

Choosing the right respite center is key to ensuring your loved one receives the best care. Take time to consider their needs, the services offered, and the center’s location. Look for a place that feels welcoming and safe.

Don’t forget to ask about Medicare respite options if applicable. With the right planning, you can find a respite center that gives both you and your loved one peace of mind.

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