Tag: dailyprompt-1852

UGC Discontinues CARE List, Proposes Guidelines for Journal Selection

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Introduction of Suggestive Parameters for Journal Selection

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

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

Focus on High-Quality Research and Institutional Review Mechanisms

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

Rationale Behind Discontinuing the UGC-CARE List

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

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

NEP 2020 and the Shift Toward Decentralization

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

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

Combating Predatory Journals and Protecting Academic Standards

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

A Step Toward Academic Freedom and Autonomy

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

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

Stakeholder Engagement and Feedback

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

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

Navigating the Science Behind Herbal Remedies: Kratom and Its Uses

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

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

What Is Kratom?

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

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

How Does Kratom Work in the Body?

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

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

Health Benefits of Kratom

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

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

Risks and Side Effects of Kratom

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

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

Is Kratom Safe to Use?

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

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

Understand Kratom and Its Uses

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

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

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

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

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

Photo by Eva Bronzini on Pexels.com

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

1.     Shift From Being Reactive to Being Proactive

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

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

2.     Adapt to Digital Transformation

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

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

3.     Lead with Purpose

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

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

4.     Build Resilience

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

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

5.     Embrace People-Centric Leadership

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

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

6.     Make Bold, Data-Driven Decisions

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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