All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) welcomed its 9th batch of postgraduate scholars with a traditional orientation program, ‘Samskara 2024’. The 15-day program commenced with a swearing-in ceremony, where 85 newly admitted students took the Shishyopanayan Pledge.
Prof. (Dr.) Tanuja Manoj Nesari, former Director of AIIA, was the chief guest, while Prof. (Dr.) Sujata Kadam, Director (I/C), AIIA, presided over the event. Other dignitaries who graced the occasion included Dean PhD Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Vyas, Dean PG Prof. (Dr.) Yogesh Badwe, Advisor Academic Activities Prof. (Dr.) Anand More, and other faculty members.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Prof. (Dr.) Tanuja Manoj Nesari extended her best wishes to the new students, saying, “I expect this batch to create history in the future.” She emphasised AIIA’s unique selling proposition (USP)—valuing exceptional education and transformative journeys.
AIIA Director (I/C) Prof. (Dr.) Sujata Kadam encouraged students, saying, “Just as gold is refined through numerous tests, these three years will transform you into refined gold, making your journey extraordinary. I expect you to emerge as the best students from this institution.”
The 9th batch consists of 85 students selected from across India who cleared the All India AYUSH Postgraduate Entrance Test (AIAPGET) conducted by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) under the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India.
Established in 2017, AIIA has treated over 27 lakh patients and attends to more than 2000 patients daily.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Bhopal, October 25, 2024 — The ICSSR-sponsored workshop, titled “Enhancing Livelihood Security: Blending Eco-Tourism with Indian Traditional Knowledge,” commenced today at MANIT Bhopal, in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. The event, hosted by the Department of Architecture & Planning, attracted a diverse group of experts, researchers, and local stakeholders.
The inaugural session featured a welcome address and introduction to the workshop’s objectives, focusing on sustainable development strategies that integrate eco-tourism with traditional knowledge to support tribal livelihoods. Dr. Sameeta Rajora, CEO of M.P. Eco-Tourism, graced the event as Guest of Honour, sharing insights on eco-tourism’s role in enhancing the socio-economic status of tribal communities in the region.
The first lecture was delivered by Dr. Lal Bihari Singha of Manipur University, who highlighted the cultural significance of bamboo crafting in homestay tourism, emphasizing its potential to strengthen local economies. Following the lecture, Dr. Khokhar from Van Dhan Kendra, Mandla, presented an expert session on developing indigenous herbal products for tourism, showcasing various herbal teas and wellness products created by tribal artisans.
The day concluded with a panel discussion on “Challenges and Opportunities for Livelihood Sustainability,” where prominent panelists, including Jigyasa Bisaria, Dr. Ramakant, and Prof. Madhuri Dubey, explored potential solutions for sustaining livelihoods through eco-tourism and community involvement.
The workshop continues tomorrow with a deliberation session, followed by a site visit to understand the livelihood opportunities available within the tribal communities of Madhya Pradesh.
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.
Africa is home to several top-tier medical institutions that offer quality medical education and are renowned for their research contributions and clinical training. Many African medical colleges produce skilled professionals who contribute significantly to the healthcare systems in their countries and globally. Below are some of the top medical colleges across various African nations:
1. University of Cape Town (UCT) Faculty of Health Sciences – South Africa
The University of Cape Town is one of the most prestigious institutions in Africa. Its Faculty of Health Sciences offers a range of medical programs, including MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery). UCT’s medical school is well-known for its world-class research, particularly in areas such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and cardiovascular diseases. Its affiliation with Groote Schuur Hospital, where the first successful heart transplant was performed, adds to its prestige.
2. Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences – South Africa
Another top medical college in South Africa, Stellenbosch University is recognized for its academic excellence and medical research. Its Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences offers comprehensive training in medicine, with a strong emphasis on research and clinical experience. The university has a global reputation in fields like immunology and health sciences.
3. University of Nairobi School of Medicine – Kenya
The University of Nairobi’s School of Medicine is one of the leading medical schools in East Africa. It is known for its robust medical programs and contribution to healthcare research. The school plays a pivotal role in training medical professionals who serve in Kenya’s healthcare sector, and it has made strides in research on infectious diseases, including malaria and HIV.
4. Makerere University College of Health Sciences – Uganda
Makerere University in Uganda is among the oldest and most prestigious universities in Africa. Its College of Health Sciences offers medical degrees and is known for its pioneering work in health research, particularly in HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases. Makerere’s medical school has been instrumental in producing skilled healthcare professionals for Uganda and the East African region.
5. Cairo University Faculty of Medicine – Egypt
Cairo University’s Faculty of Medicine is one of the top medical schools in North Africa. Established in 1827, it offers high-quality education in medicine and surgery. Cairo University is known for its comprehensive medical curriculum, with strong research initiatives in fields like oncology and neurology. It has collaborations with various international medical institutions, enhancing its global profile.
6. University of Ibadan College of Medicine – Nigeria
The University of Ibadan’s College of Medicine is the premier medical school in Nigeria. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate medical programs and is well-respected for its contributions to medical research and healthcare training in West Africa. The college has made significant contributions to research in areas like sickle cell anemia and maternal health.
7. Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences – Ethiopia
The College of Health Sciences at Addis Ababa University is the leading medical school in Ethiopia. It offers a wide range of medical programs and has been instrumental in training healthcare professionals for the country. The university is also involved in critical health research projects, including those focused on public health and infectious diseases.
8. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) School of Medical Sciences – Ghana
KNUST’s School of Medical Sciences is one of the top medical schools in Ghana and West Africa. The institution is known for its comprehensive medical education programs and research initiatives. KNUST has partnerships with international medical organizations and is highly regarded for its work in tropical medicine and public health.
9. Cheikh Anta Diop University Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry – Senegal
This prestigious medical school in Senegal offers high-quality medical education and training in various health-related disciplines. Cheikh Anta Diop University is a leader in health sciences in West Africa, with strong programs in medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry. The university contributes significantly to research in tropical diseases and public health in Francophone Africa.
10. Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) – Tanzania
MUHAS is the top medical university in Tanzania, offering a variety of medical programs, including MBBS, nursing, and public health. The university is known for its clinical training and medical research, particularly in infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
Conclusion
African medical colleges are making significant strides in global health, education, and research. Institutions such as UCT, Makerere University, and Cairo University not only provide excellent medical training but also contribute to cutting-edge research in fields critical to Africa’s health challenges. These universities produce healthcare professionals who play a vital role in improving the healthcare landscape in Africa and beyond.
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