Agricultural Infrastructure Fund

In order to enhance the income of farmers, it is not only essential to enhance production and productivity of farm produce but also minimize the post-harvest losses and ensure better realization of prices for farmers through creation of modern post-harvest management infrastructure. With an objective to address the existing gaps in post-harvest management infrastructure in the country, the flagship scheme of Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) was launched in 2020-21 to strengthen the infrastructure in the country through creation of farm gate storage and logistics infrastructure to enable farmers to store and preserve their farm produce properly and sell them in the market at better price with reduced post-harvest losses and lesser number of intermediaries. Improved post-harvest management infrastructure like warehouses, Cold stores, sorting and grading units, ripening chambers etc will allow farmers to sell directly to a larger base of consumers and hence, increase value realization for the farmers. This will improve the overall income of farmers. Further, AIF scheme aims to benefit all stakeholders in the agricultural ecosystem by contributing in the holistic development of the agriculture sector. Under AIF, provision for Rs. 1 Lakh crore loan has been made through lending institutions with a interest rate cap of 9% on loans. The scheme is operational from 2020-21 to 2032-33.

All loans under this financing facility have interest subvention of 3% per annum up to a loan limit of ₹2 crores. This interest subvention is available for a maximum period of 7 years. In case of loans beyond ₹2 crores, interest subvention is limited up to ₹2 crores. Credit guarantee coverage is also available for eligible borrowers from this financing facility under Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme for a loan up to ₹2 crores. The fee for this coverage is borne by the Government.

Budgetary support is being provided for interest subvention and credit guarantee fee as also administrative cost of PMU. This will be amount to Rs. 10,636 crores over a period of 10 years. The detailed break up is as below.

SL NO.	Name of Component	Allotted Fund Amount
1	Interest Subvention Cost	Rs. 7907Cr
2	Credit Guarantee Cost	Rs. 2629 Cr
3	Administration Cost of PMU	Rs. 100 Cr
Total		Rs. 10636 Cr

State/UT wise details of Projects approved under AIF scheme during the last three years is as below: –

(Amount in Rs Crore)

Sl.	State / UT	Sanctioned No	Sanctioned Amount
1	Madhya Pradesh	7,701	5,853
2	Maharashtra	6,860	4,151
3	Rajasthan	1,802	2,310
4	Gujarat	2,072	2,215
5	Uttar Pradesh	3,854	3,636
6	Haryana	2,704	2,108
7	Punjab	12,003	3,116
8	Telangana	1,662	2,178
9	Karnataka	2,208	2,148
10	Andhra Pradesh	680	1,116
11	West Bengal	2,537	1,441
12	Tamil Nadu	5,889	1,189
13	Chhattisgarh	814	1,008
14	Odisha	1,098	810
15	Assam	409	726
16	Bihar	848	680
17	Kerala	1,600	604
18	Uttarakhand	236	315
19	Jharkhand	225	255
20	Himachal Pradesh	347	137
21	Jammu And Kashmir	88	198
22	Delhi	7	10
23	Goa	19	10
24	Meghalaya	2	8
25	Chandigarh	2	8
26	Arunachal Pradesh	5	6
27	Tripura	5	10
28	Nagaland	0	0
29	The Dadra And Nagar Haveli And Daman And Diu	1	1
30	Puducherry	2	2
31	Manipur	3	1
32	Mizoram	0	0
33	Sikkim	0	0
34	Ladakh	0	0
35	Lakshadweep	0	0
36	Andaman and Nicobar Islands	0	0
	Total	55,683	36,250

An impact assessment study of AIF was conducted by Agro Economic Research Centre, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, Pune in December 2023 to evaluate overall performance of the scheme, primarily based on feedback from beneficiaries as well as farmers in selected states. The main findings of the study are as below.

1. Based on this study, till 26th January 2025, investment in the agri sector under AIF has generated more than 9 lakh employment opportunities. Out of the sanctioned projects, nearly 97% of the projects created are in rural areas promoting investment and employment opportunities in rural areas.

2. The average number of persons employed per unit in the peak season was found to be 11. The average was highest i.e. 27 in Rajasthan and lowest i.e. 5 in the state of Maharashtra.

3. Further, the storage infrastructure created under AIF has added nearly 550 LMT of storage capacity which includes approx. 510.6 LMT of dry storage and nearly 39.4 LMT of Cold storage capacities (as on 26.01.2025). This additional storage capacity can save up to 20.4 LMT of food grains and 3.9 LMT of horticulture produce annually.

4. The Agro processing centres created under the scheme is promoting timely value-addition of farmer’s produce resulting in increase in farmer’s income up to 20% and reduction of post-harvest losses. Custom hiring centres set up under the scheme is boosting farm mechanization and adoption of better crop residue management practices.

5. 31 percent of the AIF units have availed of government subsidies also. Thus, they have been benefitted due to Convergence under AIF.

6. For around 85 percent of the total units, availability of AIF loan was the main reason for starting the unit.

Benefits of Organic Farming

It is agreed to the view that biological substitutes for chemical fertilizers and pesticides can improve health of soil, human and planet, besides benefiting farmers.

In order to promote use of bio-fertilizers, the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) has developed improved and efficient strains of bio-fertilizers specific to different crops and soil types under the Network project on ‘Soil Biodiversity-Bio-fertilizers’. Under this project ICAR has developed improved and efficient strains of bio-fertilizer specific to different crops and soil types, Liquid Bio-fertilizer technology with higher shelf life, bio-fertilizer consortia formulation with two or more bio-fertilizer strains, microbial enriched bio-compost and Zinc & Potassium Solubilizing Bio-fertilizers. The ICAR also imparts training to educate farmers on use of bio-fertilizers.

To promote use of organic fertilizers in the country, Government is promoting organic farming through the schemes of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) in all the States/UTs (except North Eastern States). For North Eastern States, Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) scheme is being implemented. Both the schemes stress on end-to-end support to farmers engaged in organic farming i.e. from production to processing, certification & marketing and post-harvest management training and capacity building. Under PKVY, assistance of Rs. 31,500 per ha for a period of three years is provided for promotion of organic farming. Out of this, assistance of Rs. 15,000 per ha for a period of three years is provided to farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer for on- farm /off –farm organic inputs. Under MOVCDNER, assistance of Rs. 46,500/ha for 3 years is provided for creation of Farmers Producer Organization, support to farmers for organic inputs etc. Out of this, assistance @ Rs. 32500/ ha for 3 years is provided to farmers for off -farm /on –farm organic inputs under the scheme including Rs. 15,000 as Direct Benefit Transfer to the farmers. The year-wise fund released including assistance for procurement of off-farm and on-farm organic inputs during the period of last three years is as under:

Rs. in Crore.

Year	PKVY	MOVCDNER
2021-22	88.58	133.29
2022-23	188.78	144.42
2023-24	206.39	230.67

In order to ensure the avaibility of good quality of bio-fertilizers, organic fertilizers and Bio- stimulants, the Government of India regulates its quality under the Fertilizer Control Order (1985).

Government is implementing Market Development Assistance (MDA) @ Rs. 1500/Metric Tonne to promote organic fertilizers, viz., Fermented Organic Manure/ Liquid Fermented Organic Manure/Phosphate Rich Organic Manure produced at plants under Galvanizing Organic Bio Agro Resources Dhan (GOBARdhan) scheme of Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.

To incentivize the farmers to reduce the overall consumption of fertilizers for improving soil health and fertility and sustainable productivity, “PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother Earth (PM-PRANAM)” incentivizes States and Union Territories to promote alternative fertilizers and balanced use of chemical fertilizers. Under this programme, 50% of subsidy savings will be passed on as a grant to the state that reduces chemical fertilizers.

National Center of Organic and Natural Farming (NCONF) and its Regional Center of Organic and Natural Farming (RCONF) located at Ghaziabad, Nagpur, Bangalore, Imphal and Bhubaneswar organise various trainings and online awareness campaign on organic and natural farming. ICAR also imparts trainings, front-line demonstrations, awareness programs etc. to educate farmers on organic farming, through network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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Symposium on “Aquatic Animal Diseases – Addressing emerging challenges and preparedness”

Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri George Kurian has inaugurated the symposium on ‘Aquatic Animal Diseases: Emerging Challenges and Preparedness’ organised at the ICAR Convention Centre, Pusa Campus, New Delhi today. The symposium was organised as part of the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) meet being held here from 12-15 February, 2025 with the theme “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri George Kurien said appreciated ICAR for its initiative in organizing the symposium and emphasized the “One Earth – One Family” approach, stressing the importance of nutrition and biosecurity in aquaculture. He highlighted that sustainable aquaculture practices are key to ensuring food security, livelihoods, and economic growth in India. He acknowledged the efforts made under various government initiatives such as PMMSY and emphasized the need for continuous research and innovation in aquatic animal health management. He called for a multi-stakeholder approach, involving government agencies, research institutions, and industry players, to work together towards strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing biosecurity protocols, and improving diagnostic and therapeutic measures.

Dr. J.K. Jena, DDG (Fisheries Science), ICAR, and Convener of the symposium, provided an overview of the event, thanking the Government of India and Network of Aquaculture Centers in the Asia Pacific for their support. He emphasized about the need of strong biosecurity measures and discussed the ongoing NSPAAD Phase II and INFAR project, which aim to develop strategies for better disease control in aquaculture. He emphasized the Network project on Fish Health as a crucial initiative for advancing disease research and control in aquaculture. which focuses on disease management and early response mechanisms to mitigate potential risks in fish farming. Furthermore, he stressed that disease management will be critically important for the future in light of the diversification of aquaculture with introduction of new species, new systems, and the expansion of aquaculture. He also highlighted the importance of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines for effective disease management in aquaculture.

Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries and Animal Husbandry and Dairying in his address, highlighted the vital role of fisheries in supporting livelihoods and the economy. He stressed the importance of national, regional, and local-level strategies to combat disease outbreaks effectively. He underscored the need for proactive response mechanisms, recognizing that disease transmission is often linked to live animal movement. He called for enhanced biosecurity measures and early detection systems to safeguard the sustainability and economic viability of the aquaculture industry.

Dr B.K. Behera, Chief Executive, NFDB emphasized the need to institutionalize fish disease surveillance programs in India to ensure systematic disease monitoring, early detection, and effective control. He highlighted the importance of establishing disease-free zones in key aquaculture areas to prevent the spread of infections and enhance biosecurity measures. Institutionalizing surveillance would require integrating it into national aquaculture policies, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and ensuring sustained funding and implementation across states.

Dr. Eduardo Leano, NACA, Thailand provided insights into NACA’s mission since 1990, operating in 20 countries and spearheading five key disease surveillance programs. He highlighted the growing risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in aquaculture and stressed the urgent need for a sustainable, internationally coordinated approach to aquatic biosecurity.

Earlier Dr. B.K. Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, delivered the welcome address, highlighting aquaculture advancements and the importance of strengthening disease management. He emphasized the Network project on fish health under National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) as a key initiative for improving disease surveillance and fostering innovation in aquatic health solutions.

Dr. P.K. Sahoo, Director, ICAR-CIFA, delivered the Vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all dignitaries and participants.

The Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) is a triennial event of the Asian Fisheries Society with its Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This 14AFAF is being jointly organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Kuala Lumpur; Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi; the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India; and the Asian Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB), Mangalore. This prestigious event is being hosted in India for the 2nd time after the 8AFAF held at Kochi in 2007.

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Why You Should Visit Eduindex.org Daily for Educational News

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Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 to be inaugurated on 15th February

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The Governor of Tamil Nadu, Thiru R.N. Ravi, flagged off the train carrying the first batch of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 delegates—including students, teachers, and writers—today at Dr. MGR Central Railway Station, Chennai. This 10-day-long event is scheduled to take place from 15^th to 24th February 2025. Director of the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Prof. V. Kamakoti and other dignitaries were also present at the event.

The Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, in a social media message, welcomed everyone to embrace the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ at Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0. He emphasized that the event serves to cherish, celebrate, and strengthen the deep-rooted bonds between Kashi and Tamil Nadu—two enduring centers of culture, civilization, and knowledge.

The central theme of this edition of KTS will be Maharishi Agasthyar and Mahakumbh and Shri Ayodhya Dham will be the backdrop. The event will offer a divine experience and bring Tamil Nadu and Kashi—the two timeless centres of our civilisation and culture, more closer.

An exhibition on the different facets of Sage Agasthyar and his contributions to world of Health, Philosophy, Science, Linguistics, Literature, Polity, Culture, Art, particularly to Tamil and Tamil Nadu, etc. and seminars, workshops, book release, etc. will be organised at Kashi during KTS 3.0.

This year, the government has decided to bring around 1000 delegates from Tamil Nadu under five categories/groups: (i) Students, Teachers, and Writers; (ii) Farmers and Artisans (Vishwakarma Categories); (iii) Professionals and Small Entrepreneurs; (iv) Women (SHG, Mudra Loan beneficiaries, DBHPS Pracharaks); and (v) Start-up, Innovation, Edu-Tech, Research. This year, an additional group of around 200 students of Tamil origin studying in various CUs will be a part of this event to enliven the bond between Kashi and Tamil Nadu. Participation of youth in all categories has been encouraged this year. The duration of the tour for the delegates will be 8 days (4 for travel, 4 at site). The first group left Tamil Nadu today and the last group will return to Tamil Nadu on 26th February 2025.

The objective of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam is to rediscover, reaffirm, and celebrate the age-old links between Tamil Nadu and Kashi—two of the country’s most important and ancient seats of learning.

Kashi Tamil Sangamam is being organized by the Ministry of Education, Govt. of India in collaboration with other ministries including Culture, Textiles, Railways, Tourism, Food Processing, I&B etc. and the Govt. of UP. The programme aims to provide an opportunity for scholars, students, philosophers, traders, artisans, artists and people from other walks of life from the two regions to come together, share their knowledge, culture and best practices and learn from each other’s experience. It also aims to make the youth aware and experience cultural oneness. The endeavour is in sync with NEP 2020’s emphasis on integrating the wealth of Indian Knowledge Systems with modern systems of knowledge. IIT Madras and BHU are the two implementing agencies for the programme.

The Government has so far celebrated the Kashi Tamil Sangamam on two occasions earlier; i.e., for one month in 2022 and for a fortnight in 2023 and around 4000 delegates from Tamil Nadu have been a part of this event. In both the editions of KTS, there were overwhelming responses from people of Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. IIT Madras will be the sender institution and BHU the receiving institution, as in the earlier editions.

Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the registration portal for KTS 3.0 on 15^th January 2025. The portal for registration was open till 1st February 2025.

KTS 2.0 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at Varanasi on 17th December, 2023, with the first-ever real-time, app-based translation of a part of the Prime Minister’s speech in Tamil for the benefit of visiting Tamil delegates.

MANIT Bhopal to Host 11th International Conference on Transportation Systems Engineering & Management (CTSEM 2025)

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Bhopal, India – Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT) Bhopal, in collaboration with CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), New Delhi, is set to host the 11th International Conference on Transportation Systems Engineering & Management (CTSEM 2025) on July 4-5, 2025. The conference aims to bring together researchers, academicians, scientists, and transportation professionals to discuss emerging challenges and advancements in transportation engineering and management.

Conference Leadership

Chief Patron: Dr. Manoranjan Parida, Director, CSIR-CRRI, New Delhi
Conference Chairperson: Dr. P.K. Agarwal, MANIT Bhopal
Conference Secretaries:
- Dr. Siddhartha Rokade, MANIT Bhopal
- Dr. Pritikana Das, MANIT Bhopal
- Dr. Bivina G.R., MANIT Bhopal

Conference Highlights

CTSEM 2025 will provide a platform for experts to discuss key issues related to transportation systems, including:

Sustainable and Intelligent Transportation Solutions
Traffic Management and Congestion Mitigation
Road Safety and Infrastructure Development
AI, Big Data, and IoT in Transportation
Public Transport Planning & Management
Urban Mobility and Non-Motorized Transport (NMT)
Freight Transport and Logistics

The event will feature pre-conference workshops, networking sessions, technical visits, and best paper awards, making it a valuable gathering for professionals in the field.

Paper Submission and Publication Opportunities

Authors are invited to submit their full papers via the MSCMT platform by April 15, 2025, with final acceptance notifications to be sent by June 1, 2025. Selected high-quality papers will be published in SCOPUS-indexed conference proceedings by Springer, and some outstanding papers will be considered for publication in the Journal of Traffic and Transportation Engineering (JTTE) by Elsevier.

Sponsorship Opportunities

CTSEM 2025 welcomes industry sponsors to participate, with sponsorship categories ranging from Platinum (INR 3 lakhs) to Bronze (INR 0.5 lakh). Sponsors will receive branding and promotional benefits, exhibition space, and recognition during the conference.

About MANIT Bhopal and CSIR-CRRI

MANIT Bhopal, one of India’s premier technical institutions, has been at the forefront of engineering education and research. The Civil Engineering Department is a key center for academic excellence, fostering innovative solutions for urban and rural transportation challenges. CSIR-CRRI, a leading research institute, is known for its contributions to road and transportation planning, playing a crucial role in shaping India’s infrastructure.

Venue and Connectivity

The conference will be held at MANIT Bhopal, located in the heart of Bhopal City, known as the City of Lakes. Bhopal is well-connected by air, rail, and road, with the campus just 20 km from the airport and 8 km from the railway station.

Contact Information

CTSEM 2025 Organizing Committee
Transportation Engineering Division, Civil Engineering Department
Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, India
Email: ctsem2025manit@gmail.com
Website: CTSEM 2025

With a rich history of successful editions hosted by reputed institutions across India, CTSEM 2025 at MANIT Bhopal promises to be an enriching event for professionals in the transportation sector. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this significant international conference!

Interaction of MANIT Director and Experts with PhD Scholars

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Date: 12th February 2025
Venue: Vivekanand Conference Hall, MANIT Bhopal

Bhopal, 12th February 2025 – An interactive session between the Director, esteemed experts, and PhD scholars of MANIT was conducted at the Vivekanand Conference Hall. The session focused on providing guidance on crucial aspects of research, including research metrics, journal selection, societal and industrial relevance of research, and the importance of timely completion of PhD programs.

Fig. Research Publication Trends of MANIT indexed in Scopus

The session began with a discussion on the basics of research metrics, where the significance of impact factor, h-index, citation index, and other evaluation parameters was highlighted. Scholars were advised to focus on the quality and novelty of their research rather than solely on numerical metrics. Following this, scholars presented their research progress and received constructive feedback from the experts. The importance of structured research planning and setting regular milestones was emphasized to ensure timely completion.

Experts then provided guidance on selecting reputable journals based on indexing, peer-review standards, and relevance to the research domain. Scholars were encouraged to avoid predatory journals and aim for Scopus, Web of Science, and UGC-CARE-listed journals. The discussion also underscored the need to align research with real-world problems and societal needs. Opportunities for collaboration with industries and governmental bodies were explored to enhance practical applications, and scholars were encouraged to explore patents, technology transfers, and start-up ideas arising from their research.

One of the key concerns addressed was the timely completion of PhD programs and avoiding the ‘slow poison’ of prolonged stipend dependency. The adverse effects of extended PhD durations and over-reliance on stipends were highlighted, and scholars were motivated to complete their research within the stipulated timeframe to contribute effectively to academia, industry, or policy-making. The importance of skill development and networking for post-PhD career opportunities was also stressed.

The session was highly interactive and insightful, offering scholars valuable perspectives from the Director and experts. The discussion reinforced the importance of quality research, timely completion, and the broader impact of scholarly work on society and industry. Scholars were encouraged to remain dedicated, innovative, and socially responsible in their research endeavors.

Leap in Rural School Enrollment

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The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024 is a nationwide rural household survey that reached 649,491 children in 17,997 villages across 605 rural districts in India. Further, ASER surveyors visited 15,728 government schools with primary sections. 8,504 were primary schools and 7,224 were schools which also had upper primary or higher grades.

Key Findings for Pre-primary (age group 3-5 years)

Enrollment in pre-primary institutions

Among children aged 3-5 years, enrollment in some type of pre-primary institution (Anganwadi centre, government pre-primary class, or private LKG/UKG) has improved steadily between 2018 and 2024.
Among 3-year-olds, enrollment in pre-primary institutions increased from 68.1% in 2018 to 77.4% in 2024. Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Telangana have achieved near-universal enrollment for this age group.
Among 4-year-olds, the all-India figure for enrollment in pre-primary institutions increased from 76% in 2018 to 83.3% in 2024. In 2024, enrollment rates in pre-primary for this age exceed 95% in states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
Among 5-year-olds, this figure also showed big increases, rising from 58.5% in 2018 to 71.4% in 2024. The states with enrollment exceeding 90% in pre-primary institutions for this age include Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Nagaland.

Type of pre-primary institution

Anganwadi centres continue to be the biggest provider of services in pre-primary age group in India.
Approximately one-third of all 5-year-olds attend a private school or pre-school in 2024. This figure was 37.3% in 2018, fell to 30.8% in 2022, and returned to 37.5% in 2024.

Age of entry to Standard (Std) I

The proportion of children who are “underage” (age 5 or below) is decreasing over time. In 2018, this figure was 25.6%, in 2022 it stood at 22.7%, and in 2024, nationally the percentage of underage children in Std I was at its lowest ever at 16.7%. On average, this proportion has either declined or remained stable across all states in India.

Key Findings for Elementary (age group 6-14 years)

Enrollment

Overall school enrollment rates among the 6-14 age group have exceeded 95% for close to 20 years. This proportion has stayed almost the same, from 98.4% in 2022 to 98.1% in 2024. Across all states, enrollment in this age group is above 95% in 2024.
In 2018, 65.5% of children in the 6-14 age group in India were enrolled in government schools. By 2024, the all-India figure increased to 66.8%.

Reading

Std III: The percentage of Std III children able to read Std II level text was 20.9% in 2018. This figure increased to 23.4% in 2024. The improvement in government schools is higher than the corresponding recovery for private schools. Following a decline in Std III reading levels in government schools in most states in 2022, all states have shown a recovery in 2024. States with more than a 10-percentage point increase in this proportion between 2022 and 2024 in government schools include Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Odisha, and Maharashtra.
Std V: Reading levels improved substantially among Std V children, especially for those who are enrolled in government schools. The proportion of Std V children in government schools who can read a Std II level text fell from 44.2% in 2018 to 38.5% in 2022 and then recovered to 44.8% in 2024. In 2024, Mizoram (64.9%) and Himachal Pradesh (64.8%) had the highest proportions of Std V children in government schools able to read Std II level text. States with over a 10-percentage point increase in this proportion in government schools include Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu.
Std VIII: Reading levels increased among children enrolled in Std VIII in government schools, which fell from 69% in 2018 to 66.2% in 2022 but then rose to 67.5% in 2024. Government schools in states such as Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Sikkim show notable improvements.

Arithmetic

Std III: The all-India figure for children in Std III who are able to do a numerical subtraction problem was 28.2%. This figure has increased to 33.7% in 2024. Among government school students, this figure went from 20.9% in 2018 to 27.6% in 2024. For private school students, this number showed a smaller improvement since 2022. Government schools across most states have shown gains since 2022, with over 15-percentage point increases recorded in states like Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh.
Std V: At the all-India level, the proportion of children in Std V who can do a numerical division problem has also improved. This figure was 27.9% in 2018 and then rose to 30.7% in 2024. This change is also driven mainly by government schools. States with the showing most improvement (more than 10-percentage points) in government schools include Punjab and Uttarakhand.
Std VIII: The performance of Std VIII students in basic arithmetic remains similar to earlier levels, going from 44.1% in 2018 to 45.8% in 2024.

Key Findings for Older children (age group 15-16 years)

Enrollment

The proportion of 15-16-year-old children who are not enrolled in school dropped sharply from 13.1% in 2018 to 7.9% in 2024 at the all-India level.

Digital literacy

Access to smartphones is close to universal among the 14-16 age group. Almost 90% of both girls and boys report having a smartphone at home. More than 80% report knowing how to use a smartphone.
Of the children who could use a smartphone, 27% of 14-year-olds and 37.8% of 16-year-olds reported having their own phone.
82.2% of all children in the 14-16 age group reported knowing how to use a smartphone. Of these, 57% reported using it for an educational activity in the preceding week while 76% said that they had used it for social media during the same period. While the use of a smartphone for educational activities was similar among girls and boys, girls were less likely than boys to report using social media (78.8% of boys as compared to 73.4% of girls). Kerala stands out in this respect, with over 80% children who reported that they used the smartphone for educational activity and over 90% using it for social media.
Among children who used social media, knowledge of basic ways to protect themselves online was relatively high. 62% knew how to block or report a profile, 55.2% knew how to make a profile private, and 57.7% knew how to change a password.

Key Findings of School Observations

Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) activities

Over 80% of schools had received a directive from the government to implement Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) activities with Std I-II/III, both in the previous as well as in the current academic year. A similar proportion had at least one teacher who had received in-person training on FLN.
More than 75% schools had received Teaching Learning Material (TLM) and/or funds to make or purchase TLM for FLN activities.
More than 75% schools reported implementing a school readiness program for students prior to entering Std I, in both the previous and the current academic year.
More than 95% schools reported having distributed textbooks to all grades in the school, a substantial increase over 2022 levels.

Student and teacher attendance

Student and teacher attendance in government primary schools show small but consistent improvements since 2018. Average student attendance increased from 72.4% in 2018 to 75.9% in 2024.
Average teacher attendance increased from 85.1% in 2018 to 87.5% in 2024. This trend is largely driven by changes in teacher and student attendance in Uttar Pradesh.

Small schools and multigrade classrooms

The proportion of government primary schools with less than 60 students enrolled shows a sharp increase, rising from 44% in 2022 to 52.1% in 2024. More than 80% primary schools in these states are small schools: Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Nagaland, and Karnataka. Himachal Pradesh has the highest proportion of small Upper primary schools at 75%.
Two-thirds of Std I and Std II classrooms in primary schools were multigrade, with students from more than one grade sitting together.

School facilities

Nationally, all Right to Education-related indicators included in ASER have shown small improvements between 2018 and 2024 levels. For example, the fraction of schools with useable girls’ toilets increased from 66.4% in 2018 to 72% in 2024.
The proportion of schools with drinking water available increased from 74.8% to 77.7%, and the proportion of schools with books other than textbooks being used by students increased from 36.9% to 51.3% over the same period.
Sports-related indicators remain at close to the levels observed in 2018. For example, in 2024, 66.2% schools have a playground, similar to 66.5% in 2018.

References

Click to access ASER_2024_Final-Report_25_1_24.pdf

Leap in Rural School Enrollment

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Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025

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On 10th February 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted with students at Sunder Nursery, New Delhi, during the first episode of the 8th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC). In this informal yet insightful session, the Prime Minister engaged with students from across the country, discussing a variety of topics. The 36 students present learned from the Prime Minister valuable lessons on Nutrition and Wellness; Mastering Pressure; Challenging Oneself; The Art of Leadership; Beyond Books – 360º Growth; Finding Positives and more. This interactive session provided students with valuable insights and practical strategies to navigate academic challenges with confidence and a growth mind set.

Today, renowned actor and mental health champion Deepika Padukone participated in the second episode of the 8th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha. Around 60 students attended the interactive session.

Deepika shared how addressing mental health challenges can be empowering and spoke about the valuable lessons she learned from her own struggles. Sharing her stress management strategies, she emphasized the importance of getting enough sleep, spending time outdoors in natural sunlight and fresh air, and maintaining a healthy daily routine to effectively reduce stress. She further emphasized that self-confidence and a positive mind set are key to success. Encouraging students to see failures as learning opportunities, she inspired them to keep moving forward with determination.

Reiterating Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s message—”Express, Never Suppress”—Deepika stressed the importance of seeking help when needed. She engaged with students in an interactive activity, where they wrote down their strengths and pinned them on a board on the stage, reinforcing the significance of self-awareness and recognizing one’s strengths. She conducted a live grounding session through an activity called 54321, demonstrating a technique to improve concentration during exams.

Students physically present at the program posed their queries, and Deepika responded by drawing from her personal experiences, offering valuable insights and practical advice. Additionally, a student from an international CBSE school also had the opportunity to ask a question, further enriching the discussion with a wider perspective.

The 8th edition of PPC had set a new benchmark. With over 5 crore participation, this year’s program exemplifies its status as a Jan Andolan, inspiring collective celebration of learning. For the episode with the Prime Minister, 36 students from all State and UT were selected from State/UT Board Government schools, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Sainik School, Eklavya Model Residential School, CBSE and Navodaya Vidyalaya. Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 will feature additional six insightful episodes, bringing together renowned personalities from diverse fields to guide students on essential aspects of life and learning. Each episode will address key themes:

Link to watch the 1^st episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5UhdwmEEls

Link to watch the 2^nd episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrW4c_ttmew

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‘GYAN BHARATAM MISSION’ TO PRESERVE OVER 1 CRORE MANUSCRIPTS

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Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan lauded the Budget 2025-26, emphasizing it as a budget that takes everyone together and prioritizes welfare, well-being, and empowerment of all citizens while firmly placing India on the path to achieving the goal of developed India by 2047. The Minister expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for a visionary and futuristic Budget.

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said that this Budget is aiming to cater to the comprehensive requirements, right from childhood to youth, who would be leading from the front in realizing the Viksit Bharat agenda in 2047 and beyond.

He further stated that the Budget announcements encompass today’s entire youth demographic, who will lead the nation for the next 25 years. This will strengthen the Bhartiya Gyan Parampara within our education system and foster a global community, he added.

The Minister highlighted that the Budget 2025-26 emphasizes investing in people and facilitating all-round development of India’s human capital. He noted that with “Gareeb, Yuva, Annadata, and Naari” as the pillars, this budget would uplift sentiments of the poor and middle class, accelerate spending, catalyze investments, and spur growth. He emphasized that it would remove regional imbalances, build rural prosperity, nurture research, innovation and entrepreneurship, invigorate the education and skilling landscape, and lead to employment-led development.

The Minister expressed gratitude for continuing with bigger and bolder investments in education, skilling, research, and innovation, stating that this budget represents another big leap towards empowering India’s population with more opportunities for world-class education and building capacities of human capital.

The Minister informed that the total budget allocation for the Ministry of Education has reached ₹128,650 crore, marking a 6.22% increase over BE 2024-25.

Union Education Minister informed that Fifty thousand Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) will be set up in Government schools in next 5 years to cultivate the spirit of curiosity and innovation, and foster a scientific temper among young minds. With this, students of all Government secondary schools will have access to ATL. The Union Budget also proposes to provide Broadband connectivity to all Government secondary schools and primary health centres in rural areas under the BharatNet project, he added.

Shri Pradhan informed that the total number of students in 23 IITs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years. Additional infrastructure will be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students. Hostel and other infrastructure capacity at IIT, Patna will also be expanded, he further added.

Shri Pradhan said that with the aim to help students understand their subjects better, it is proposed to implement a Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme to provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education.

The Union Minister also informed that five National Centres of Excellence for skilling will be set up with global expertise and partnerships to equip youth with the skills required for “Make for India, Make for the World” manufacturing. The partnerships will cover curriculum design, training of trainers, a skills certification framework, and periodic reviews.

Shri Pradhan highlighted that the fourth AI Centre of Excellence in Education, envisioned in the Budget 2025-26, aims to revolutionize India’s educational system from pre-primary to professional and research levels. By harnessing artificial intelligence, it seeks to address disparities and inefficiencies, ensuring equitable and high-quality education across the nation. This Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for Education will be established with a total outlay of ₹500 crore, he added

The Minister informed the allocation of Rs 20,000 crore to implement private sector driven Research, Development and Innovation. In the next five years, under the PM Research Fellowship scheme, provision of ten thousand fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc with enhanced financial support is also proposed in the Budget, he added.

The Minister informed that a Gyan Bharatam Mission for survey, documentation and conservation of our manuscript heritage with academic institutions, museums, libraries and private collectors will be undertaken to cover more than 1 crore manuscripts. A National Digital Repository of Indian knowledge systems for knowledge sharing will also be set up.

D/o School Education & Literacy

The Budget Allocation for the FY 2025-26 of ₹ 78572 Cr is the highest ever for the Department of School Education & Literacy.
There has been an overall increase of ₹ 5074 Cr (7%) in the Budget Allocation of Department of School Education and Literacy in the FY 2025-26 from BE 2024-25. As compared to RE of FY 2024-25, there has been an increase of ₹ 11,000 Cr (16.28 %).
The highest ever Budget Allocation may be seen in the Autonomous Body of Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) at Rs. 9,503 Cr. Allocation in KVS has increased by ₹ 201.17 Cr as compared to Budget allocation of FY 2024-25. There has been an increase of ₹ 776 Cr (9%) as compared to RE of FY 2024-25.
Budget Allocation of FY 2025-26 in Flagship Schemes have increased i.e Samagra Shiksha (by ₹ 3750 Cr), PM-POSHAN (by ₹ 32 Cr) and PM-SHRI (by ₹ 1450 Cr) with respect to Budget Allocation (BE) of FY 2024-25. As compared to RE 2024-25, allocation in Samagra Shiksha has increased by ₹ 4240 Cr (11%), allocation in PM-POSHAN has increased by ₹ 2500 Cr (25 %) and allocation in PM-SHRI has increased by ₹ 3000 Cr (66%).
Out of the overall Budget Allocation in FY 2025-26 of ₹ 78,572 Cr, the Scheme allocation is ₹ 63,089 Cr and Non-Scheme Allocation is ₹ 15,483 Cr.

Increase in Scheme Allocation in BE 2025-26 is ₹ 5284 Cr (9.14 %) as compared to BE 2024-25. As compared to RE 24-25, increase in Scheme Allocation is ₹ 10248 Cr (19%) and non-Scheme allocation has increased by ₹ 752 Cr (5%) in BE 2025-26.
Fifty thousand (50,000) Atal Tinkering Labs (ALT) will be set up in Government schools in next five years to cultivate the spirit of curiosity and innovation, and foster a scientific temper among young minds.
Broadband connectivity will be provided to all Government secondary schools under BharatNet project in the next three years.

Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education

The overall Budget Allocation in FY 2025-26 is Rs. 50077.95 Cr out of which Scheme allocation is Rs. 6990.88 Cr and Non- Scheme allocation is Rs. 43087.07 cr.
There has been an overall increase of Rs. 2458.18 Cr (5.16%) in the Budget Allocation of Department of Higher Education in the FY 2025-26 with respect to FY 2024-25.

Allocations to Major Autonomous Bodies under Higher Education

The total Allocation of Autonomous Bodies in 2025-26 increased to Rs. 42732 Cr from Rs. 39777.40 in 2024-25. There is increase of 7.42%

Allocation in Central Universities has been kept at Rs. 16691.31 Cr, against Rs. 15928 Cr in 2024-25 which is Rs 763.31 Cr more i.e. 4.79 % increase.
UGC has been allocated Rs.3335.97 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs. 2500 Cr in 2024-25 which is Rs. 835.97 Cr more i.e. 33.44 % increase.
IITs have been allocated Rs. 11349.00 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs. 10324.50 Cr in 2024-25 which is Rs. 1024.50 Cr more i.e. 9.92% increase.
For NITs, Rs.5687.47 Cr has been allocated in FY 2025-26, against Rs.5040 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 647.47 Cr i.e. 12.85% increase.
Deemed Universities have been allocated Rs.604 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs.596 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 8 Cr i.e. 1.34% increase.
IIMs have been allocated Rs.251.89 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs. 212.21 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 39.68 Cr i.e. 18.70% increase.
IIITs have been allocated Rs.407.00 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs.315.91 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 91.09 Cr i.e 28.83 % increase.
Grants for Promotion of Indian Languages have been allocated Rs.347.03 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs.310.10 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 36.93 Cr i.e. 11.91% increase.

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Measuring the Pulse of Indian Education

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Education is not only the foundation upon which our civilization has been built, but it is also the architect of humanity’s future.”

~Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

Education has always been a key priority for the government and with the vision to make India a global education hub, the Union Budget 2025-26 introduces innovative initiatives. Focused on expanding medical seats, enhancing skilling infrastructure and growing IITs, these measures aim to provide more opportunities and equip youth with essential skills for the future.

Announcements for a Smarter, Inclusive India

Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme: To provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education. This aims to help students understand their subjects better.
National Centres of Excellence for Skilling: Building on the July 2024 Budget, five National Centres of Excellence for skilling will be established with global partnerships to equip youth with skills. These centres will focus on curriculum design, trainer training, skills certification, and regular reviews.
Expansion of Capacity in IITs: Additional infrastructure will be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students. Hostel and other infrastructure capacity at IIT, Patna will also be expanded. Total number of students in 23 IITs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years.
Centre of Excellence in AI for Education: A Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education will be set up with a total outlay of 500 crore.
Expansion of Medical Education: The government had added almost 1.1 lakh UG and PG medical education seats in ten years, an increase of 130 per cent. In the next year, 10,000 additional seats will be added in medical colleges and hospitals, towards the goal of adding 75,000 seats in the next 5 years.

Inside India’s Education System

The Indian education system has undergone significant transformation over the years. Serving 24.8 crore students across 14.72 lakh schools, it is supported by a dedicated workforce of 98 lakh teachers, as reported by the UDISE+ (Unified District Information System for Education Plus 2023-24). Government schools form the backbone of the system, comprising 69% of the total, enrolling 50% of students and employing 51% of teachers. On the other hand, private schools make up 22.5% of institutions, catering to 32.6% of students and employing 38% of teachers. This growing structure reflects the dynamic changes in the Indian education landscape, paving the way for continuous improvements in enrollment and access over the years.

Enrollment Trends in India

The NEP 2020 aims for a 100% Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) by 2030. The GER is near universal at the primary (93 %) and the efforts are underway to bridge the gaps at the secondary (77.4 %) and higher secondary level (56.2 %), driving the nation closer to its vision of inclusive and equitable education for all. In the realm of higher education, India has seen a dramatic rise in student enrollment. The total number of students enrolled in higher education reached 4.33 crore in 2021-22, a 26.5% increase from 3.42 crore in 2014-15. The Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) for the 18-23 age group also rose from 23.7% to 28.4% in the same period.

Women’s participation in higher education has also witnessed significant growth, with female enrollment rising from 1.57 crore in 2014-15 to 2.07 crore in 2021-22, marking a 32% increase. This progress is especially evident in fields like Medical Science, Social Science, and Arts, where women are now leading the charge in enrollment.

Decline in Dropout Rate

However, challenges still persist and the dropout rate remains a critical concern. While there has been a steady decline in dropout rates. School dropout rates have steadily declined in recent years, standing at 1.9 per cent for primary, 5.2 per cent for upper primary and 14.1 per cent for secondary levels. According to AISHE report the dropout rate at the secondary level has also decreased significantly from 21% in 2013-14 to 13% in 2021-22.

Transforming India’s Education Landscape

Over the years, India has seen a remarkable transformation in its higher education ecosystem. The number of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) has grown significantly, increasing by 13.8% from 51,534 in 2014-15 to 58,643 in 2022-23. This expansion reflects the country’s commitment to making higher education more accessible and diverse.

Growth in Medical Education and Workforce: Medical Colleges grew from 499 in FY19 to 780 in FY25.

Candidates aspiring to study MBBS increased from 16 lakh in 2019 to 24 lakh in 2024.
MBBS Seats increased from 70,012 in FY19 to 1,18,137 in FY25.
Postgraduate Medical Seats grew from 39,583 in FY19 to 73,157 in FY25.
Doctors Available: 13.86 lakh registered practitioners as of July 2024, with a current ratio of 1:1263 per person. The WHO norm of 1:1000 could be met by 2030 with an annual increase of 50,000 doctors.

Growth of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): The number of IITs increased from 16 in 2014 to 23 in 2023.

Growth of Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs):The number of IIMs grew from 13 in 2014 to 20 in 2023.

Expansion of Universities:The number of Universities grew from 723 in 2014 to 1,213 in 2024, marking a 59.6% increase.

Increase in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs): Total HEIs increased by 13.8%, from 51,534 in 2014-15 to 58,643 in 2022-23.

Progress in Basic Facilities

Education infrastructure has significantly improved, with a rise in the number of higher education institutions. Key areas like medical check-ups, sanitation, and ICT availability have also seen substantial upgrades, highlighting positive progress in school facilities to enhance the quality of education. From 2019-20 to 2023-24, there have been notable improvements in school infrastructure. The percentage of schools with girls’ toilets increased slightly from 96.9% to 97.2%, while access to libraries/reading rooms rose from 84.1% to 89%. The availability of electricity improved from 83.4% to 91.8%, and computers in schools increased from 38.5% to 57.2%. Additionally, internet access grew significantly from 22.3% to 53.9%, marking a positive shift toward better-equipped schools.

Conclusion

The education sector in India is being strengthened through various government initiatives aligned with NEP 2020. Programs like Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, PM SHRI (Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India) and PM POSHAN (Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman) are driving improvements in infrastructure, teacher training and learning outcomes. The Economic Survey highlights the progress and the government’s commitment to making education more inclusive and accessible.

References

Click here to download PDF

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

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

Introduction of Suggestive Parameters for Journal Selection

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

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

Focus on High-Quality Research and Institutional Review Mechanisms

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

Rationale Behind Discontinuing the UGC-CARE List

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

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

NEP 2020 and the Shift Toward Decentralization

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

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

Combating Predatory Journals and Protecting Academic Standards

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

A Step Toward Academic Freedom and Autonomy

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

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

Stakeholder Engagement and Feedback

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

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

IAF CONDUCTS SEMINAR ON ‘NAVACHAR UTKRISHTAM BHAVISYAM’ (Innovation is Path to Better Future) AERO INDIA 25

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Indian Air Force (IAF) is working to harness the potential of indigenous defence industry through Govt policies under the umbrella of Atmanirbharta by continuously engaging with the Industry Partners. Considerable success has been achieved in the indigenisation and innovation of spares and sustenance of equipment. The efforts are now being focused towards complex futuristic technologies, weapon systems and space domain.

Aero India being one of the premier aerospace and defence exhibition, serves as a global platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies, innovations, and products in the field of aviation. IAF has been at the forefront of embracing the vision of ‘Make in India‘ by actively supporting indigenous defence development and manufacturing. IAF is the biggest stakeholder in aerospace domain and a major participant in leading the drive towards Atmanirbhata.

In pursuit of futuristic technologies and to highlight the drive towards self-reliance, lAF is conducting a seminar on the theme ‘NAVACHAR UTKRISHTAM BHAVISYAM’ (innovation is the Path to better Future). The Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has been invited as the Chief Guest for the event with Chief of the Air Staff in attendance.

The seminar is planned on 11 Feb 25, from 1400-1630 Hr, at Hall No 1, Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru. The seminar is expected to have attendance from senior officers of Armed Forces, Govt officials, Industry leaders from aviation and aerospace domain, reps from Defence Public Sector Units (DPSUs), MSMEs, Start-ups, Innovators and the Academia. The seminar aims to inspire collaboration between defence forces, industry and R&D agencies, fostering a robust ecosystem for innovation. During this seminar, the following are planned to be released /launched by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri:- a publication titled ‘IAF Compendium (Samarthya Margdarshika) of Challenges and Opportunities for Indian Industry‘, for the Indian industries, Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Start-ups and individual innovators, encompassing current and future requirements of IAF; Declaration of the winners of Mehar Baba-ll Competition (MBC). The MBC-II was launched for the Indian Industries in the year 2022. This competition harnessed exceptional talent of Indian industry in swarm drone technology and showcased their capabilities in realising solutions to specific problem statements. In addition, MBC-III ‘Collaborative Drone Based Surveillance Radars‘ will be launched to develop an unmanned capability similar to an Airborne Warning and Control System.

Towards bolstering the ‘Digital India’ drive, IAF will be launching ‘VAYU VITT‘ digital portal for placing orders, certification and payments between lAF and HAL. This is aimed towards enhancing digitisation along with improved efficiency and transparency.

Additionally, a panel discussion on ‘Manned Unmanned Teaming- From Concept to Targeting‘ is planned with eminent experts from the aerospace domain including scientists, industrialists, certification agencies and end users. The panel discussion is intended towards underscoring the pivotal role of Indian Industry in driving indigenous solutions for futuristic technologies to meet the evolving defence and security needs of our Nation.

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Pariksha Pe Charcha -Empowering Students, Transforming Lives

Examinations are often a source of stress for students and their families, but the “Pariksha Pe Charcha” (PPC) initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been transforming this narrative. Scheduled for 11 AM on February 10, 2025, this year’s PPC will once again serve as an interactive platform where the Prime Minister directly engages with students, teachers, and parents. Each edition of PPC highlights innovative approaches to tackle exam-related anxiety, fostering a celebratory attitude toward learning and life.

The Record-Breaking PPC 2025

The 8th edition of PPC, scheduled on 10 February 2025, has already set a new benchmark. With over 5 crore participation, this year’s program exemplifies its status as a Jan Andolan, inspiring collective celebration of learning This year, 36 students from all State and UT, have been selected from State / UT Board Government schools, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Sainik School, Eklavya Model Residential School, CBSE and Navodaya Vidyalaya. Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 will feature seven insightful episodes, bringing together renowned personalities from diverse fields to guide students on essential aspects of life and learning. Each episode will address key themes:

Sports & Discipline – M.C. Mary Kom, Avani Lekhara, and Suhas Yathiraj will discuss goal setting, resilience, and stress management through discipline.
Mental Health – Deepika Padukone will emphasize the importance of emotional well-being and self-expression.
Nutrition – Experts Shonali Sabherwal, Rujuta Diwekar, and Revant Himatsingka (Food Farmer) will highlight healthy eating habits, sleep, and overall well-being.
Technology & Finance – Gaurav Chaudhary (Technical Guruji) and Radhika Gupta will explore technology as a learning tool and financial literacy.
Creativity & Positivity – Vikrant Massey and Bhumi Pednekar will inspire students to cultivate positivity and manage negative thoughts.
Mindfulness & Mental Peace – Sadhguru will introduce practical mindfulness techniques for mental clarity and focus.
Stories of Success – Toppers from UPSC, IIT-JEE, CLAT, CBSE, NDA, ICSE, and past PPC participants will share how PPC shaped their preparation and mindset.

A Journey Through the Years

2024: Nationwide participation.

The seventh edition of PPC, held on January 29, 2024, was expansive with 2.26 crore registrations on the MyGov portal, it reflects the program’s immense popularity and relevance. For the first time, 100 students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) participated, symbolizing the inclusivity of the initiative. The event was held in a town-hall format at Bharat Mandapam, ITPO, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, with approximately 3,000 participants, including students, teachers, parents, and winners of the Kala Utsav.

Pariksha Par Charcha 2024

2023: Widening Participation

The 6th Edition of PPC was conducted on 27 January 2023 at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi. Hon’ble Prime Minister of India interacted with students, teachers and parents during this programme and gave his valuable suggestions/ inputs to all stakeholders. The programme was telecast live by many TV Channels and YouTube channels. 718110 students, 42337 employees and 88544 Parents viewed the live programme of PPC-2023. The interaction of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India with students, teachers and parents was inspiring, motivating thought-provoking for all.

Pariksha Par Charcha 2023

2022: The Revival of Physical Interactions

5th Edition of PPC was conducted on 1st April 2022 at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi. Hon’ble Prime Minister of India has interacted with students, teachers and parents in this programme and has given them his valuable suggestions/ inputs. 9,69,836 students, 47,200 employee and 1,86,517 parents viewed the live programme of Pariksha Pe Charcha-2022. The programme was telecast live by the many TV Channels and YouTube channel etc

Pariksha Par Charcha 2022

2021: The Virtual Connection

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the fourth edition of PPC was held online on 7 April 2021. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the interaction continued to inspire students and their families. The focus shifted to resilience and adaptability, teaching life skills to help students navigate uncertain times.

Pariksha Par Charcha 2021

2020: Expanding Participation

The unique Town Hall format of the event in which the Hon’ble Prime Minister directly interacted with school students at the Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi was held on 20th January, 2020. The event broadened its scope with an online competition for students that received 2.63 lakh entries. Students from all over India and also Indian students residing abroad from 25 countries participated. The event highlighted the need to embrace challenges as stepping stones for success.

Pariksha Par Charcha 2020

2019: Growing Reach

On January 29, 2019, the second edition of PPC took place at the same venue, witnessing an even greater level of participation. The interaction, which lasted for over ninety minutes, saw students, teachers and parents relax, laugh, and repeatedly applaud the Prime Minister’s observations, which included a touch of humour and wit.

Pariksha Par Charcha 2019

2018: The Inaugural Interaction

The first-ever Pariksha Pe Charcha was held on February 16, 2018, at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi. There were more than 2500 students from schools and colleges who were present in Talkatora Stadium of 16th February, 2018 for the interaction and more than 8.5 Crore students from across the country viewed or heard the programme on DD/TV Channels/ Radio Channels. The Prime Minister emphasized holistic development, resilience, and the importance of maintaining balance during exams. The event’s success set the tone for future editions.

Pariksha Par Charcha 2018

The Impact of Pariksha Pe Charcha

Over the years, PPC has evolved into an opportunity aimed at transforming exam-related stress into positive energy. By addressing real questions and offering actionable solutions, Prime Minister Modi has bridged the gap between policy and practice, empowering students to thrive under pressure. The program’s inclusivity, digital reach, and innovative approaches ensure its continued success as a cornerstone of student engagement in India. With each passing year, PPC reinforces the message that exams are not the end but a beginning!

References

Annual report 2023-24 to 2018-19. https://www.education.gov.in/documents_reports?field_documents_reports_tid=All&field_documents_reports_category_tid=All&title=&page=1

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https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2092794

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2000010

https://pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1561793

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2100184

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Aero India 2025 at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru on February 10, 2025

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The 15^th edition of Aero India, Asia’s biggest aerospace and defence exhibition, will be inaugurated by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 10, 2025. With the broad theme of ‘The Runway to a Billion Opportunities’, the five-day extravaganza will showcase India’s aerial prowess and indigenous cutting-edge innovations alongside state-of-the-art products of global aerospace companies. In line with ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ vision, the event will also provide a stage to forge international collaborations to fast-track the indigenisation process, thereby providing a thrust to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government’s resolve of making the country Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru on the eve of the event, Raksha Mantri described Aero India as a crucial platform, which will drive forward the Government’s vision of a strong, capable India, secure and self-reliant India. “Aero India is a platform that showcases the strength, resilience, and self-reliance of New India. It is not just crucial for India’s defence preparedness, but it also plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our nation. It will demonstrate our defence capabilities and forge global partnerships. Our goal is to enhance collaboration in areas of common interest with our friendly nations, fostering deeper cooperation and shared progress. The event is not just a showcase of technology and innovation, but will also serve as a source of inspiration for our youth, fostering scientific temperament and a spirit of innovation,” he said.

Organised in a total area of over 42,000 sq m and with the confirmed participation of over 900 exhibitors, including 150 foreign companies, the event is set to be the biggest-ever Aero India till date. Shri Rajnath Singh termed the participation of more than 90 countries as a testament to the growing global confidence in India’s aerospace and defence capabilities. “Defence ministers or representatives from about 30 countries have come to participate in this event. The presence of Air Chiefs and Secretaries from 43 countries further highlights the significance of this event – not just for India, but for the entire international defence community,” he said.

Highlighting the transformation of the defence and aerospace sector in the recent years, Raksha Mantri asserted that, today, India is not only capable of designing and developing major platforms and equipment within India, it has also successfully established a vast supply chain within the country. “Advanced platforms like Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter Prachand and C-295 Transport Aircraft are now being produced in India. We have also taken a firm resolve to manufacture fifth-generation fighter aircraft within the country. From the advanced variants of the Agni missile, the Astra missile system, and the Pinaka missile system to the cutting-edge Hypersonic missile system and the Akash air defence system, we have built numerous success stories. These achievements have played a crucial role in strengthening our defence sector, making India more self-reliant and secure,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh added that post corporatisation of Ordnance Factory Board, the newly formed companies have started performing exceptionally well in defence production. “Under a well-considered and well-developed plan, we have actively worked to empower the private sector in the defence and aerospace industries. Today, India has a thriving private defence industry that has firmly established itself and is making significant contributions to our national security,” he said.

Raksha Mantri expressed confidence that defence production, having crossed the record figure of Rs 1.27 lakh crore, will exceed Rs 1.60 lakh crore by the end of 2025-26. Defence exports, which touched the record figure of Rs 21,000 crore, he said, will surpass Rs 30,000 crore.

Shri Rajnath Singh underlined the crucial role being played by the defence industrial sector in making India an economic super power. He stated that any breakthrough in the defence sector not only strengthens national security, but also impacts the economy. Technologies developed for defence applications promote innovation in the civil sector as well, leading to employment generation and economic development, he said. He termed Aero India a significant driver of economic strength, contributing to the overall growth and development of the economy. He expressed confidence that Aero India will be remembered as a historic milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in the aerospace and defence sector.

The 15^th Aero India will be held between 10^th and 14^th February 2025. February 10^th to 12^th have been reserved as business days, with 13^th & 14^th set as public days for people to witness the show. The event comprises Defence Ministers’ Conclave; CEOs Roundtable; inauguration of India & iDEX Pavilions; Manthan iDEX event; Samarthya Indigenisation event; Valedictory function; seminars; breath-taking airshows and an exhibition of aerospace companies.

Defence Ministers’ Conclave

With the aim to strengthen defence cooperation with friendly nations amidst a rapidly-evolving global security landscape, Raksha Mantri will host the Defence Ministers’ Conclave on February 11 in hybrid mode. The theme this year ‘Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement (BRIDGE)’ underscores the importance of supply chain resilience and strategic collaboration in defence.

The last edition witnessed the participation of 27 Defence Ministers and Deputy Defence Ministers alongside 15 Defence & Service Chiefs and 12 Permanent Secretaries. This year, the participation has expanded as representatives from more than 80 countries are likely to participate in the conclave. Approx. 30 Defence Ministers in addition to Defence/Service Chiefs and Permanent Secretaries from friendly nations will attend the event.

The conclave will provide a crucial platform to address key aspects such as Defence capacity building through investment, joint ventures & co-production, Collaboration in R&D, training & technological advancements in AI & space, Maritime security cooperation and strategic partnerships.

CEOs Roundtable

CEOs Roundtable 2025 will be chaired by Raksha Mantri on February 10, on the theme ‘Enabling Defence Cooperation through Global Engagement (EDGE)’. Over 100 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have confirmed their participation in the event. These include 55 from 19 countries (USA, France, Russia, South Korea, UK, Japan, Israel & Brazil etc), 35 Indian (Larsen & Toubro, Bharat Forge Ltd, Adani Defence & Aerospace, Mahindra Defence Systems Ltd, BrahMos Aerospace & Ashok Leyland Defence) and 16 Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs). Shri Rajnath Singh had addressed over 73 CEOs of 28 Foreign OEMs and 45 Indian OEMs in the 2023 edition of the event.

Major foreign OEMs including Airbus (France), Ultra Maritime (USA), GNT (South Korea), John Cockerill Defence (UK), Mitsubishi (Japan), Rafael Advance Defence System (Israel), Safran (France) and Liebherr Aerospace (France) are expected to highlight their future plans, Joint Ventures, collaborations, partnerships with Indian companies for production of spares parts, development of aero-engines, setting up of Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) facilities and establishment of R&D facilities etc.

India Pavilion

The India Pavilion will provide an opportunity to Indian Defence Industries to showcase their design, development, innovation and manufacturing capabilities. It will be inaugurated by Raksha Mantri on February 10. The grandeur show at India Pavilion would signify the ‘Flight of Self-Reliance’ which encapsulates India’s journey towards becoming a global aerospace and defence powerhouse.

India Pavilion will be divided into five distinct zones displaying indigenous capabilities in aero aviation, land aviation and naval aviation, def-space and niche technologies domains. More than 275 exhibits will be at display through various mediums, represented by complete defence ecosystem of the country which includes DPSUs, design houses, private corporates including MSMEs and start-ups. The Central Area exhibits will include a striking display of marquee platforms including Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, Combat Air Teaming System, Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter.

iDEX Pavilion

The iDEX Pavilion will be inaugurated by Raksha Mantri on February 10. It will showcase cutting-edge indigenously developed products and technologies, marking a significant milestone in India’s defence innovation journey. Leading innovators will display their indigenously-developed products spanning a wide-range of advanced domains including Aerospace, DefSpace, Aero Structures, Anti-drone systems, Autonomous Systems, Robotics, Communication, Cybersecurity, Surveillance & Tracking, Unmanned Ground Vehicles etc. The Pavilion will also feature a dedicated section highlighting the winners of Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme, showcasing their ground-breaking work in critical and niche technologies.

iDEX has successfully onboarded over 600 start-ups and MSMEs, marking a significant milestone in fostering innovation. Furthermore, 40 prototypes developed under iDEX have received official clearance for procurement, with 31 procurement contracts worth Rs 1,560 crore already signed.

Manthan

Manthan 2025, the flagship annual defence innovation event, will be graced by Raksha Mantri on February 12. Organised by Innovations for Defence Excellence – Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO), the event will bring together stakeholders of the defence innovation ecosystem including innovators, industry leaders, academia, incubators, investors, thought leaders, senior government officials etc.

Manthan will deliberate on emerging challenges and opportunities in the sector, with a focus on supporting defence start-ups and MSMEs, enhancing innovation capabilities, and fostering strategic collaborations within the defence ecosystem. It stands as a testament to the scale and speed of iDEX, showcasing the rapid strides made in defence innovation and the pivotal role of start-ups in transforming India’s defence capabilities.

Samarthya

On the success story of indigenisation and innovation in the defence sector, an Indigenisation event on the theme ‘SAMARTHYA’ will be held on February 12 alongside the Valedictory function which will be graced by Raksha Mantri. This event is first-of-its-kind during Aero India, as it will showcase India’s indigenous ingenuity in defence manufacturing by demonstrating some of the major items indigenised by DPSUs, DRDO and Services with the involvement of the private sector.

Bilateral Meetings

Bilateral meetings at the levels of Raksha Mantri/Raksha Rajya Mantri/Chief of Defence Staff/Service Chiefs/Defence Secretary/Secretary (Defence Production) will take place on the sidelines of Aero India 2025.

Seminars

A number of seminars on a variety of topics will be organised as part of Aero India 2025. On February 11, Raksha Mantri is scheduled to address a seminar organised by the Indian Air Force on the theme ‘Manned Unmanned teams for Aerial Warfare – concept to targeting’ and another organised by DRDO on the theme ‘DRDO Industry Synergy towards Viksit Bharat’.

Other seminars on the themes – Mission DefSpace: From Vision to Reality – A Progress Report; Indigenous Development of Aerospace Materials: Strengthening India’s Self-Reliance; Transition to Aatmanirbhar Indian Naval Aviation 2047 and its associated ecosystem; Transformation of Maritime Aviation by Adopting Technological trends and Indigenisation; Aligning Technologies to Future Conflicts; and Investment Opportunities for Aerospace & Defence Manufacturers in Karnataka – will also be held as part of the event.

Historic First – Su-57 and F-35 at Aero India

For the first time in history, Aero India 2025 will witness the participation of two of the world’s most advanced fifth-generation fighter aircraft – the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35 Lightning II. It marks a milestone in global defence collaboration and technological advancement, offering aviation enthusiasts and defence experts an unparalleled prospect to witness these state-of-the-art warplanes.

Su-57: Russia’s premier stealth multirole fighter is designed for superior air superiority and strike capabilities. Equipped with advanced avionics, supercruise capability, and stealth technology, it is making its debut at Aero India 2025. Visitors can expect high-speed aerial manoeuvres and tactical demonstrations that highlight the fighter’s agility, stealth and firepower.

F-35 Lightning II: The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, the most widely-deployed fifth-generation fighter, integrates advanced stealth, unparalleled situational awareness and networked combat capabilities. Its presence at Aero India 2025 will enable visitors to witness the flagship of US Air Force.

The inclusion of both the Su-57 and F-35 highlights India’s position as a key hub for international defence and aerospace collaboration. Aero India 2025 will provide a rare side-by-side comparison of Eastern and Western fifth-generation fighter technology, offering defence analysts, military personnel and aviation enthusiasts valuable insights into their respective capabilities.

Visitor-Friendly Experience

With key infrastructure upgrades and improved amenities, Aero India 2025 promises to be bigger, smoother and more visitor-friendly than ever before.

Enhanced Infrastructure & Traffic Management: Recognising past challenges, extensive improvements have been made to facilitate seamless entry, movement and connectivity and there has been close coordination between Ministry of Defence, Indian Air Force (IAF), various arms of Karnataka State Government like Bengaluru Traffic Police, BBMP, NHAI, and Namma Metro. Approach roads have been widened to optimise traffic flow around Air Force Station Yelahanka so as to ease congestion and improve movement around the venue.

Security and Emergency Preparedness: Red drone zones have been designated and published with countermeasures in place to tackle unauthorised drone activity. Rapid Mobile Units will be deployed strategically to provide quick assistance and emergency support. Continuous mock drills with multiple agencies are being conducted to ensure practical and implementable contingency plans.

Exhibitor & Visitor Experience Enhancements: To enhance the experience for exhibitors and business delegates, the exhibition area has been revamped with several key upgrades:

Expanded and better-ventilated exhibition halls to accommodate more exhibitors and visitors comfortably.
Improved seating and rest zones throughout the venue.
Additional food courts and refreshment kiosks, including Indira Canteens (at parking areas).
Lost and found counters and ATM kiosks for visitor convenience.
Multiple water points, medical aid posts, and a dedicated cardiac aid post for emergencies, including medical evacuation.

Multi-Layered Security Measures: Ensuring the safety of all attendees, a multi-layered security system is being deployed in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Bengaluru Police, CISF, and Intelligence Agencies. Measures include:

Enhanced security protocols and faster access control.
An operational Command and Control Centre for real-time responses to security concerns.
24/7 CCTV monitoring for situational awareness.
Dedicated screening zones for visitors, exhibitors, and VIPs.
Disaster management and fire safety committees to handle emergencies.

Connectivity & Digital Infrastructure: To address connectivity challenges, all telecom service providers are deploying temporary mobile towers and network boosters for uninterrupted communication. A dedicated Aero India 2025 mobile app has also been launched which will provide live updates, navigation assistance, and event scheduling. Secure digital communication channels have also been established for coordination among agencies. Additionally, provisions have been made to support increased electricity demands during the event while ensuring safety.

Airspace Management & Demonstrations: Aero India demonstrations and aircraft movements are a major highlight of Aero India 2025. In coordination with AAI and HAL, the Indian Air Force has structured a dedicated Airspace management plan including:

Temporary flight restrictions around Aero India Force Station Yelahanka to maintain safety during scheduled demonstrations.
Strategic Aircraft parking and refuelling plans for domestic and international participants.

Business and Innovation Support: The Aero India provides a platform for collaborations and to facilitate B2B, G2B interactions and hosting roundtable discussions to showcase technological advancements. Special focus will be given to supporting start-ups and MSMEs by providing them with a global platform to present indigenous innovations.

Sustainability Initiatives: Aero India 2025 is committed to sustainability and has incorporated several eco-friendly measures in its conduct like:

Reduced vehicle movement to minimise pollution and enhance pedestrian comfort.
Exclusive use of more than 100 E Karts for movement of visitors in the exhibition venue.
Comprehensive waste management, including increased recycling bins, waste segregation zones, and timely disposal of waste.

With these multi-agency collaborations, Aero India 2025 is set to be one of the most well-coordinated and better organised editions to date.

Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff & Secretary, Department of Military Affairs General Anil Chauhan, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka Dr Shalini Rajneesh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, other senior officials of Ministry of Defence and industry leaders attended the curtain raiser press conference.

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