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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
Worker Population Ratio (WPR): WPR is defined as the percentage of employed persons in the population.
Unemployment Rate (UR): UR is defined as the percentage of persons unemployed among the persons in the labour force.
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.
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)
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 period
Male
Female
Person
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
July – September 2023
73.8
24.0
49.3
October – December 2023
74.1
25.0
49.9
January – March 2024
74.4
25.6
50.2
April – June 2024
74.7
25.2
50.1
July – September 2024
75.0
25.5
50.4
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 period
Male
Female
Person
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
July – September 2023
69.4
21.9
46.0
October – December 2023
69.8
22.9
46.6
January – March 2024
69.8
23.4
46.9
April – June 2024
70.4
23.0
46.8
July – September 2024
70.7
23.4
47.2
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 period
Male
Female
Person
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
July – September 2023
6.0
8.6
6.6
October – December 2023
5.8
8.6
6.5
January – March 2024
6.1
8.5
6.7
April – June 2024
5.8
9.0
6.6
July – September 2024
5.7
8.4
6.4
E. Highlights of the Quarterly estimates of key Labour Market indicators
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Groups
Registered Grievance Range
No. of Ministries/Departments
A
registered grievances > 10,000
28
B
registered grievances 2,000 to 9,999
33
C
registered grievances < 2,000
28
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 1
Rank 2
Rank 3
Group A:Grievances > 10,000
Composite
Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
Department of Posts
Ministry of Cooperation
Efficiency
Ministry of Cooperation
Department of Telecommunications
Ministry of Labour and Employment
Feedback
Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
Central Board of Direct Taxes (Income Tax)
Department of Defence
Domain
Unique Identification Authority of India
Ministry of Home Affairs
Ministry of Cooperation
Organisational Commitment
Department of Posts
Department of Telecommunications
Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Group B:Grievances 2,000 – 9,999
Composite
O/o the Comptroller & Auditor General of India
Department of Land Resources
NITI Aayog
Efficiency
Department of Legal Affairs
Department of Land Resources
NITI Aayog
Feedback
O/o the Comptroller & Auditor General of India
Department of Expenditure
Department of Financial Services (Pension Reforms)
Domain
Department of Land Resources
Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation
Organisational Commitment
Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
Department of Land Resources
Ministry of Ayush
Group C:Grievances < 2,000
Composite
Department of Investment & Public Asset Management
Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region
Department of Pharmaceuticals
Efficiency
Department of Investment & Public Asset Management
Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region
Ministry of Mines
Feedback
Department of Pharmaceuticals
Department of Public Enterprises
Department of Investment & Public Asset Management
Domain
Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region
Department of Youth Affairs
Department of Bio Technology
Organisational Commitment
Department of Official Language
Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals
Legislative 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.
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:
What is ESCI?
Criteria for ESCI Journal Inclusion
Differences Between ESCI and Other Citation Indices
Importance of ESCI Journals
How ESCI Affects Researchers and Authors
How Journals Get Indexed in ESCI
List of ESCI Journals and their Scope
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:
Aspect
ESCI
SCI/SSCI/AHCI
Citation Impact
Emerging, but lower citation impact compared to SCI/SSCI
Established journals with high citation counts
Journal Selection
Based on quality and potential for growth
Based on long-term citation performance and prestige
Scope
New or emerging fields, interdisciplinary, or regional journals
Established fields with broad global reach and historical significance
Indexing Requirements
Journals must show academic merit but have limited citation history
Journals must demonstrate sustained academic impact and citation frequency
Audience
Niche, emerging scholarly communities
Global, 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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Did this article help you? If so, take a look at some of our other blog posts for more informative reads.
Morse Code is a method of encoding text characters as sequences of dots (.) and dashes (-) that can be transmitted using sound, light, or visual signals. Named after its inventor, Samuel Morse, this system revolutionized long-distance communication in the 19th century and laid the groundwork for modern telecommunications. Though largely superseded by advanced technologies, Morse Code remains a valuable skill and is still used in various specialized applications today.
History of Morse Code
Invention by Samuel Morse: In the early 1830s, Samuel Morse, an American artist and inventor, along with Alfred Vail, developed the first version of Morse Code. It was initially intended for use with the telegraph, an electrical device that sends signals over wires.
First Successful Transmission: On May 24, 1844, Morse sent the first official telegraph message, “What hath God wrought,” from Washington, D.C., to Baltimore, Maryland. This event marked the beginning of a new era in communication.
Evolution of the Code: The original version of Morse Code was not suitable for all languages. As a result, a modified version called International Morse Code was developed in 1851, which is still in use today. The differences mainly involve changes to certain letters and punctuation marks.
How Morse Code Works
Morse Code represents letters, numbers, and punctuation using sequences of dots (short signals) and dashes (long signals). Each letter and number has a unique combination, making it possible to communicate messages clearly and efficiently.
The Basic Components
Dot (·): Represents a short signal. Typically lasts for one unit of time.
Dash (−): Represents a long signal, which is three times the duration of a dot.
Space:
Between dots and dashes within a character: 1 unit of time.
Between characters within a word: 3 units of time.
Between words: 7 units of time.
Morse Code Alphabet and Numbers
Here is the complete International Morse Code chart:
Letter
Code
Letter
Code
Number
Code
A
·−
N
−·
1
·−−−−
B
−···
O
−−−
2
··−−−
C
−·−·
P
·−−·
3
···−−
D
−··
Q
−−·−
4
····−
E
·
R
·−·
5
·····
F
··−·
S
···
6
−····
G
−−·
T
−
7
−−···
H
····
U
··−
8
−−−··
I
··
V
···−
9
−−−−·
J
·−−−
W
·−−
0
−−−−−
K
−·−
X
−··−
L
·−··
Y
−·−−
M
−−
Z
−−··
Special Characters and Punctuation
Period (.): ·−·−·−
Comma (,): −−··−−
Question Mark (?): ··−−··
Apostrophe (‘): ·−−−−·
Exclamation Mark (!): −·−·−−
Slash (/): −··−·
Parentheses ( ): −·−−·−
Ampersand (&): ·−···
Colon (:): −−−···
Semicolon (;): −·−·−·
Equals Sign (=): −···−
Plus (+): ·−·−·
Hyphen (-): −····−
Underscore (_): ··−−·−
Quotation Mark (“): ·−··−·
Dollar Sign ($): ···−··−
At Sign (@): ·−−·−·
Practical Uses of Morse Code
Despite being an old technology, Morse Code still finds use in various fields due to its simplicity and effectiveness:
Aviation and Maritime: Morse Code is still used in aviation (especially for navigation aids like VORs and NDBs) and maritime communication (like SOS signals).
Emergency Situations: Morse Code can be used to send distress signals when other forms of communication fail. The SOS signal (· · · − − − · · ·) is universally recognized.
Military: The military uses Morse Code for secure, covert communication, especially in special operations.
Amateur Radio (Ham Radio): Many amateur radio enthusiasts still use Morse Code, particularly for long-distance communication due to its ability to be transmitted over low bandwidth and noisy channels.
Assistive Technology: Morse Code can assist individuals with disabilities. For example, those with limited motor skills can use Morse Code inputs to communicate using specialized devices.
Learning Morse Code
Learning Morse Code may seem daunting, but with consistent practice, it becomes second nature. Here are some tips for beginners:
Tips and Techniques
Start with the Basics: Begin by learning the most commonly used letters (E, T, A, O, N, etc.).
Use Mnemonics: Associating Morse Code patterns with memorable phrases or rhythms can help retention.
Practice Regularly: Use online resources, mobile apps, or flashcards to practice consistently.
Listen to Morse Code: Hearing Morse Code regularly helps in recognizing patterns faster. There are plenty of apps and websites that play random sequences for practice.
Join a Community: Engage with amateur radio operators or Morse Code enthusiasts who can provide support and additional resources.
Morse Code Mnemonics Example
A (·−): Think of the phrase “A sail” (short and long).
B (−···): The phrase “Be a good boy” (one long, three short).
C (−·−·): Think of “Coca-Cola” (alternating sounds).
O (−−−): “Oh!” (a long exclamation).
Technological Impact of Morse Code
Morse Code was a key driver in the development of modern communication systems:
Telegraph: The invention of the telegraph, which used Morse Code, was the first form of long-distance communication that did not rely on physical transportation of messages.
Radio Communication: Early radio transmissions relied heavily on Morse Code due to its simplicity and the fact that it could be transmitted over low-quality channels.
Digital Communication: The binary nature of Morse Code (dots and dashes) influenced the development of digital communication protocols and encoding schemes.
Conclusion
Morse Code may seem like a relic from the past, but its enduring legacy and continued relevance in specialized fields highlight its significance. From enabling the first real-time long-distance communication to serving as a reliable backup in emergency situations, Morse Code has stood the test of time. Whether you’re an enthusiast looking to explore the history of telecommunications or someone interested in learning a new skill, Morse Code remains a fascinating and valuable part of our technological heritage.
Books: The Art and Skill of Radio-Telegraphy by William G. Pierpont, Morse Code for Dummies by James Anderson
Apps: Morse Code apps like Morse-It, Morse Code Trainer, and Gboard Morse Code Keyboard for mobile practice.
Fun Fact
Did you know that Morse Code is not only auditory but also visual? It can be communicated using light signals (like a flashlight), making it versatile in various scenarios, especially in emergency situations where sound-based communication is not feasible.
NCGG concluded its 2nd Webinar of webinar series on Public Policy and Good Governance in collaboration with IIT Kanpur on 24th October 2024. The webinar was chaired by Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) & Director General, National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG).
There were two esteemed speakers for the webinars. The first speaker for the webinar was Dr. Ajay Kumar, former Defence Secretary, Government of India & Distinguished Visiting Professor at IIT Kanpur and the second speaker for the webinar was Prof. Vimal Kumar, Head, Dept of Economic Sciences, IIT Kanpur.
Dr. Ajay Kumar delivered lecture on Challenges in Public Policy highlighting the role of Government of India in Policy making and how over the time it has changed its approach in policy making. His lecture further highlighted that changes in public policies should be calibrated in phases, the impact of digitization in mitigating the challenges faced while making new policies by highlighting the digitization of land records. He also highlighted on using data in decision making. He elaborated on the different approaches to policy making and emphasized that the process of policy making should involve diverse stakeholders. While discussing the challenges in public policy he also suggested the solutions such as incentivizing the progressive policies.
The second speaker for the webinar was Prof. Vimal Kumar, Head of Economic Sciences, IIT Kanpur who delivered his lecture on Platform Business Model & their regulation in Digital Economy. He started his lecture by discussing a quick history of Business in India from artisans producing single product to mass production. His lecture also suggested the importance of network and platform creation for any successful business model. He emphasized on diverse usage of various business platforms including payment networks, social media, traditional media such as newspaper, e-commerce platforms like Amazon & Flipkart, Apple’s App store and others. He also highlighted network on a platform within the group and cross-group wherein he explained attraction loop and attraction spill over. He concluded his lecture with the importance of digital platform using the comparison between BMW and Uber as case studies.
The webinar was concluded by the vote of thanks given by Dr. Himanshi Rastogi, Associate Professor, NCGG. Dr. Rastogi, expressed her heartfelt thanks to all participants, from Institutes of National Importance and Central Universities. She also thanked Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, DARPG & Director General, NCGG for chairing the webinar.
The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation Limited (NICDC), under the administrative control of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, in collaboration with the CEPT Advisory Foundation (CAF) of the Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT) University, organised a workshop to discuss the sustainable design of administrative buildings for 12 new greenfield industrial smart cities recently approved by the Government of India. This first-of-its-kind workshop, held on October 24, 2024, at the CEPT University campus in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, focused on highlighting sustainable design concepts such as biophilic architecture, integrated and inclusive planning, energy efficiency, and climatic bio-massing.
It has been envisioned that administrative buildings in these futuristic smart cities will embody these advanced principles to create uniquely designed structures that contribute to eco-friendly urban landscapes.The workshop was held to inspire Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and state officials to participate in discussions on emerging technologies and sustainable practices on both national and global levels.
Participants engaged in two detailed sessions during the workshop. In the initial session, the emphasis was placed on the value of good design and its role in creating appealing, functional workspaces. Distinguished architects demonstrated exemplary projects to showcase the advantages of innovative designs, while open discussions were held on the latest design trends and implementation challenges. This session was led by renowned professionals, including Ms. Aparna Khemani from Gensler, Mr. Bedanta Saikia from Edifice, and Mr. Ambrish Arora from Studio Lotus.
In the second part of the workshop, the CAF team outlined a robust and transparent process for procuring architectural services. This presentation emphasized the importance of balancing quality and cost in commissioning competent designers through a reliable and thorough process. This session was facilitated by Mr. Prasad Jasti from Jacobs and Mr. Avanish Pendarkar, Center Head, CEPT Urban Planning and Design Foundation – CoE.
CEO and MD, NICDC, Shri Rajat Kumar Saini, IAS, stressed the significance of developing unique, iconic administrative buildings in the industrial smart cities being established under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme. The aim of these industrial corridors is to create dynamic zones that stimulate industrial growth, improve logistics, and foster eco-friendly environments. Shri Saini expressed the NICDC’s vision of collaborating with CEPT University and CAF to develop resilient cities equipped to meet the needs of future generations.
CAF Director, Mr. Darshan Parikh, highlighted the importance of this collaboration with NICDC and SPVs, emphasising that CAF is committed to supporting NICDC in realising the vision of iconic buildings across designated locations. Mr. Parikh added, “Together, we aim to work collaboratively to bring the best design competencies for the development of these iconic administrative buildings”.
The workshop concluded with state officials gaining a deeper understanding of the nuances involved in designing and planning context-specific, innovative administrative buildings. This initiative represents a step toward the goal of Viksit Bharat, showcasing the pivotal role that architecture, culture, design, planning, technology, research play in building a robust and sustainable future.
NICDC, formerly known as the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation, is responsible for developing greenfield industrial smart cities with manufacturing as the primary economic driver, as part of the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme.
CEPT Advisory Foundation (CAF) is a section 8 (non-profit) company that focuses on advisory projects, constituted in November 2023. CAF offers services across nine thematic centres, including urban planning, transport, infrastructure, and water supply and sanitation. Its portfolio includes over 200 projects, ranging from development and strategic plans to feasibility studies and development control regulations.
National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) successfully organized a workshop on “Building Quality Infrastructure for Tribal Education” on 24th October 2024 at Akashvani Bhawan, New Delhi. This event is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to provide quality educational infrastructure for tribal communities through Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs), ensuring sustainable and effective learning environments.
Shri Ajeet K. Srivastava, Commissioner of NESTS, inaugurated the workshop, emphasizing the critical need for completing EMRS construction on time with emphasis on quality of construction. He stated, “Non completion of good quality EMRS on time means tribal children not going to school which is unacceptable.” He exhorted the participants to take pledge that they would construct EMRS before time by ensuring best quality of construction. Commitment to multifaceted development is evident in NESTS’ initiatives, including modern educational programs like the Amazon Future Engineering program and the organization of a Principal’s Conclave focused on academic and administrative excellence. This holistic approach underscores the importance of providing both high-quality infrastructure and advanced educational opportunities for tribal students.
Shri Ajeet K. Srivastava, Commissioner, NESTS addressing the gathering.
The workshop covered essential technical aspects such as geotechnical investigations, material testing, earthwork, and the reinforcement of construction practices in tribal areas. Participants included civil engineers, project managers, and architects, all eager to share best practices and insights from the newly launched handbook titled “Building Quality Infrastructure for Tribal Education.”
Interactive sessions focused on project planning, architectural layouts, and specific reinforcement issues related to tribal education infrastructure. Participants emphasized the importance of aligning construction practices with the unique geographical and cultural contexts of tribal regions for sustainable development.
Throughout the day, expert speakers provided valuable insights, fostering collaboration and innovative solutions to infrastructure challenges.
Topics included quality assurance during the construction process, effective material testing methodologies, and strategies for successful project planning. Interactive Q&A sessions allowed participants to address specific issues related to EMRS development, facilitating knowledge exchange and practical problem-solving.
This pioneering workshop represents a significant step forward in NESTS’ mission to enhance educational access and quality for tribal communities, reaffirming its vision of providing equal opportunities for all tribal students.
With a vision of “Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas”, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has implemented the PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM-YASASVI). This comprehensive umbrella scheme is aimed at uplifting students from Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and Denotified Tribes (DNT) by providing them with access to quality education during their formative years.
The PM YASASVI scheme consolidates and enhances several earlier initiatives, including the Dr. Ambedkar Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for EBCs and the Dr. Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for DNTs, which were subsumed under this program starting from 2021-22. By integrating these schemes, PM YASASVI aims to ensure a more streamlined and impactful approach to supporting the educational needs of socially and economically disadvantaged students.
Objective
The overarching goal of the scheme is to promote educational empowerment among these vulnerable groups, helping them overcome financial barriers and complete their education. This initiative not only fosters individual academic growth but also contributes to the broader vision of creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
Under this Scheme students can avail Pre-Matric Scholarship from Class 9 to 10 and Post Matric Scholarship for their higher studies at post-matriculation or post-secondary stage. Students who excel in their studies also get an opportunity of Scholarship to study in Top Class Schools and Colleges under the Scheme of ‘Top Class School Education’ and ‘Top Class College Education’. Hostel facilities are also provided to OBC students under the ‘Scheme of Construction of Hostels for OBC boys and girls.’
PM –YASASVI for OBC, EBC and DNT students has been formulated having following five sub-schemes:
Pre-Matric Scholarship for OBC, EBC and DNT Students
Post-Matric Scholarship for OBC, EBC and DNT Students
Top Class School Education for OBC, EBC and DNT Students
Top Class College Education for OBC, EBC and DNT Students
Construction of Hostel for OBC Boys and Girls
Scope
The Pre-Matric Scholarship is designed for students in classes IX and X attending government schools, offering an annual academic allowance of Rs. 4,000 to families with an income below Rs. 2.5 lakh. For the 2023-24 academic year, Rs. 32.44 crore has been allocated to states and Union Territories for its implementation. The Post-Matric Scholarship supports students pursuing post-secondary education, providing academic allowances ranging from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 20,000 based on the category of the course. For this scheme, Rs. 387.27 crore has been released for the current year.
Additionally, the Top Class School and College Education schemes are designed to support meritorious students from OBC, EBC, and DNT categories. These programs cover tuition fees, hostel expenses, and other academic costs, with school students (Class 9-12) eligible for funding up to Rs. 1.25 lakh annually. College students at top institutions receive full financial support, including tuition, living expenses, and educational materials. To further enhance access to education, Rs. 12.75 crore has been allocated in 2023-24 under the ‘Construction of Hostels for OBC Boys and Girls’ scheme, which aims to provide accommodation for socially and educationally backward students near government schools and institutions, ensuring they have better access to quality education.
Benefits
The PM YASASVI aligns with the government’s broader vision of fostering inclusivity, equity, and societal upliftment. By offering comprehensive support to students from OBC, EBC, and DNT categories, it directly addresses the systemic barriers that prevent many from accessing quality education. This initiative not only ensures financial assistance but also promotes educational empowerment for some of the most vulnerable sections of society, thereby creating opportunities for upward mobility and self-reliance.
The scheme’s focus on supporting students at both school and college levels helps to nurture talent from an early age and carry it through to higher education, laying a strong foundation for personal and professional growth. Moreover, by integrating earlier scholarship initiatives into a single, streamlined program, PM YASASVI enhances the impact of these efforts, contributing to the creation of a more inclusive and equitable education system. PM-YASASVI is ensuring that no student is left behind in the pursuit of academic and social progress. This scheme is playing a crucial role in the welfare and upliftment of marginalized communities, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
Impact
The PM YASASVI (Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India) scheme has made significant strides in providing financial assistance to students from Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and De-Notified Tribes (DNT). In Financial Year 2023-24, a substantial sum of ₹ 193.83 cr. was allocated for the Pre-Matric Scholarship, benefiting 19.86 lakh students during 2023-24, with further beneficiaries for 2023-24 expected. Similarly, under the Post-Matric Scholarship scheme, ₹988.05 cr. was released, benefiting 27.97 lakh students in 2023-24. These scholarships aim to empower underprivileged students by alleviating financial burdens, thereby promoting education across marginalized communities.
Additionally, the government has invested in other educational support initiatives. ₹14.30 cr. has been released for the construction of hostels, accommodating 1146 students in 2023-24. Top-class education programs and overseas study interest subsidies have also seen significant funding, reaching thousands of students. For example, ₹ 111.18 cr. was allocated to support 4762 students in top Class education in college scheme and Rs. 6.55 Cr. Was allocated to support 2602 students in Top Class education in Schools for OBC, EBC & DNT Students and ₹ 56.24 Cr. was granted as interest subsidies to 2789 students pursuing overseas education. These efforts reflect the growing impact of the PM YASASVI scheme, which is transforming the educational landscape for disadvantaged students, enabling them to achieve their academic potential and contributing to overall societal upliftment.
*Any additional documents specified in the application form
Key Points
Selection Process: The YASASVI Entrance Test (YET) 2023 is the basis for candidate selection, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) under the direction of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJ&E), Government of India.
Eligibility: Open to OBC, EBC, and DNT students with a total annual family income of up to ₹2.50 lakhs. Additional eligibility criteria may apply, depending on the specific scholarship scheme.
Where to Apply: Eligible students can apply online at the National Scholarship Portal: scholarships.gov.in.
Conclusion
By offering a comprehensive array of scholarships and support programs, PM-YASASVI is addressing the financial constraints that often hinder access to education for marginalized communities. The integration of various earlier schemes into one streamlined initiative ensures that students are supported from their school years through to higher education, creating pathways for personal and professional growth. With the government’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to quality education, the PM YASASVI Scheme is making a tangible impact on the lives of thousands of students, helping to create a more inclusive and prosperous India.
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