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Month: September 2025

Education

Himachal Pradesh Achieves Full Literacy; CM Sukhu Announces Education Reforms

Observenow Desk September 10, 2025

Himachal Pradesh has officially been declared fully literate, marking a significant milestone in the state’s educational journey. The announcement comes as a result of sustained efforts by the government, educators, and communities to ensure universal access to basic education. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu hailed the achievement as a historic moment and pledged comprehensive reforms to further strengthen the state’s education system.

CM Sukhu emphasized that achieving full literacy is only the first step toward transforming education in Himachal Pradesh. He outlined plans to modernize classrooms by integrating digital tools and technology, aiming to create interactive and engaging learning environments for students across the state. The initiative seeks to equip students with essential digital literacy skills, preparing them for the challenges of the 21st century.

In addition to digital classrooms, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of quality teaching and announced programs to enhance teacher training and professional development. Efforts will focus on modern pedagogical methods, subject expertise, and fostering innovative teaching practices. By investing in educators, the state aims to ensure that students receive a high standard of education that goes beyond basic literacy.

Infrastructure improvements also feature prominently in the reform agenda. Plans include upgrading school facilities, providing adequate learning materials, and creating safe, well-equipped classrooms that encourage student engagement and holistic development. CM Sukhu underscored that robust infrastructure is key to sustaining educational outcomes and supporting long-term academic growth.

The Chief Minister’s announcement has been welcomed by educators, parents, and policymakers, as it signals a commitment to consolidating literacy achievements while promoting quality education. With these reforms, Himachal Pradesh aims not only to maintain its fully literate status but also to become a model state for educational excellence and innovation.

Tags: Himachal PradeshSukhvinder Singh Sukhu

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Education

Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu Proposes Tech-Driven Education Reforms, Honours 175 Teachers

Observenow Desk

On the occasion of Teachers’ Day, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu outlined ambitious plans to modernize the state’s education system by leveraging technology and collaborative platforms. Speaking at the event, he emphasized the need to integrate social media, alumni networks, parents, and subject-matter experts to share educational content, mobilize resources, and enhance learning outcomes across schools in the state.

CM Naidu highlighted the importance of preparing students for the future by introducing AI and quantum-ready curricula, alongside traditional subjects. He stressed that education reforms should focus on developing critical thinking, computational skills, and adaptability, enabling students to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world. By incorporating emerging technologies into classrooms, the state aims to foster innovation, creativity, and global competitiveness among its students.

During the ceremony, 175 outstanding teachers were honored for their dedication, innovative teaching methods, and contributions to student development. CM Naidu praised their commitment to nurturing young minds and emphasized that teachers are central to realizing the vision of a technologically empowered and knowledge-driven education system.

The Chief Minister also encouraged educators to actively engage with digital platforms, collaborate with peers, and continuously update their skill sets to meet the demands of modern education. By harnessing the collective expertise of teachers, alumni, and industry professionals, the state hopes to create an ecosystem that supports both academic excellence and practical skill development.

CM Naidu’s proposals underscore Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to progressive education reforms that combine technology, collaboration, and teacher empowerment. The initiative aims to ensure that students are well-equipped for the challenges of the 21st century while recognizing and celebrating the invaluable role of teachers in shaping India’s future.

Tags: Andhra PradeshN. Chandrababu Naidu

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Education

Khan Sir Appeals to PM Modi to Remove GST on Educational Services

Observenow Desk

Educator and popular YouTuber Khan Sir has made a public appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the government to revoke the 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on educational services. Speaking in favor of the move, Khan Sir emphasized that quality education is a fundamental necessity and should not be burdened with additional taxation.

Khan Sir argued that imposing GST on educational services increases the financial strain on students and their families, potentially restricting access to quality learning resources. He highlighted that education is a cornerstone for national development and should be treated differently from commercial services that attract taxation.

The appeal comes amid growing discussions on the affordability of education in India, where tuition fees, coaching costs, and learning materials already place a significant financial burden on households. By exempting educational services from GST, proponents believe that more students, particularly from economically weaker sections, would have access to quality instruction without additional costs.

Khan Sir also stressed that removing GST would encourage more educational institutions and online platforms to expand their offerings, ultimately improving the overall quality and reach of education in the country. He emphasized that the government’s support in this regard could have long-term benefits for skill development, employability, and the nation’s competitiveness in a global knowledge economy.

His appeal has sparked conversations on social media and among education stakeholders, with many expressing support for a tax exemption that could make learning more affordable and inclusive. The discussion highlights the ongoing debate about balancing government revenue needs with the imperative to provide accessible and equitable education for all.

As the conversation continues, many educators, parents, and policymakers are watching closely to see whether the government will consider revising GST rules for educational services, potentially easing financial pressures and promoting wider access to learning.

Tags: GSTKhan SirNarendra ModiPM Modi

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Education

IIM Calcutta Climbs to 41st Spot Globally in FT Masters Rankings

Observenow Desk

The Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM Calcutta) has achieved a significant milestone by securing the 41st position in the 2025 Financial Times (FT) Masters in Management (MiM) rankings, marking a remarkable ascent from its previous 56th place. This advancement underscores the institution’s growing prominence on the global stage of management education.

Among Indian institutions, IIM Calcutta now ranks third, following IIM Bangalore at 28th and IIM Ahmedabad at 34th. This achievement highlights the competitive edge of Indian business schools in the international arena.

The FT MiM rankings evaluate programs based on various criteria, including alumni salary, career progression, value for money, and diversity. IIM Calcutta’s improved position reflects its strong performance across these parameters, particularly in alumni salary and career services. The institution’s focus on enhancing employability and providing comprehensive support to its graduates has contributed to this upward trajectory.

This recognition not only elevates IIM Calcutta’s status among global business schools but also reinforces the quality of management education offered by Indian institutions. Prospective students and industry stakeholders can look to IIM Calcutta as a beacon of excellence in management education.

As the demand for skilled management professionals continues to rise, IIM Calcutta‘s ascent in the FT rankings positions it as a leading choice for aspiring business leaders seeking a robust and globally recognized education.

Tags: FT Masters RankingsIIM Calcutta

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Education

Top 9 Management Institutes in Delhi NCR – NIRF 2025 Rankings

Observenow Desk

Delhi NCR continues to be a prominent hub for management education in India, with nine institutions securing spots in the top 100 nationally in the NIRF 2025 rankings. Leading the pack is IIT Delhi, followed by IIFT and Jamia Millia Islamia. Private institutions like IMI, FORE, and NDIM also feature prominently, reflecting the region’s diverse educational offerings.

The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) evaluates institutions based on parameters such as Teaching, Learning & Resources, Research and Professional Practices, Graduation Outcomes, Outreach and Inclusivity, and Perception. These rankings provide valuable insights for students seeking quality management education in the region.

The inclusion of these institutions in the top 100 underscores the growing emphasis on quality education and the development of industry-ready professionals in Delhi NCR. Students aspiring to pursue management studies in this region have a plethora of esteemed institutions to choose from, each offering unique strengths and opportunities.

As the demand for skilled management professionals continues to rise, these institutions are well-positioned to contribute significantly to the workforce, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the dynamic business environment.

Prospective students are encouraged to explore the specific offerings, faculty expertise, industry connections, and placement records of these institutions to make informed decisions about their educational paths. Engaging with alumni networks and attending open houses or webinars can also provide deeper insights into the experiences and outcomes associated with each institution.

In conclusion, the NIRF 2025 rankings highlight Delhi NCR’s status as a leading destination for management education, offering a diverse array of institutions that cater to the evolving needs of the business world.

Tags: NIRF 2025 Rankings

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Education

IIT-Kanpur and SCERT Launch AI Training Programme for UP Teachers

Observenow Desk

IIT-Kanpur, in collaboration with the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), has initiated a transformative teacher training programme aimed at enhancing AI skills in Uttar Pradesh’s government schools. The ‘Digital Literacy, Computational Thinking, Coding & AI’ (DLCCAI) initiative targets 750 science teachers from PM SHRI, upper primary, and composite schools across the state.

The DLCCAI programme adopts a hybrid model, combining five days of in-person sessions with online follow-up modules. This approach ensures that teachers receive comprehensive training while accommodating their schedules. The curriculum focuses on equipping educators with essential skills in digital literacy, computational thinking, coding, and artificial intelligence, thereby empowering them to integrate these competencies into their teaching methodologies.

By enhancing teachers’ proficiency in these areas, the programme aims to foster a generation of students adept in navigating the digital landscape. This initiative aligns with the broader objective of integrating technology into education, ensuring that students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

The collaboration between IIT-Kanpur and SCERT underscores the commitment to advancing educational standards in Uttar Pradesh through innovative training programmes. By investing in teacher development, the DLCCAI initiative seeks to create a ripple effect, enhancing the quality of education and fostering a technologically adept student community across the state.

As the programme progresses, it is expected to serve as a model for similar initiatives in other regions, contributing to the nationwide effort of integrating AI and digital literacy into the educational framework.

Tags: IIT KANPURSCERT

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Education

IIT Madras Professor Mitesh Khapra Named in TIME Magazine’s ‘Top AI 100’ List

Observenow Desk

Mitesh Khapra, Associate Professor at IIT Madras, has been recognized in TIME magazine’s 2025 list of the 100 most influential people in artificial intelligence. His inclusion places him alongside global AI leaders such as Elon Musk and Sam Altman, highlighting his significant contributions to AI research and development.

Khapra’s work primarily focuses on natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning, with a particular emphasis on making AI accessible to India’s diverse linguistic landscape. He co-founded AI4Bharat, an initiative dedicated to developing open-source tools and datasets that enable AI systems to understand and process all 22 of India’s official languages. This endeavor addresses the limitations of English-centric AI models by creating resources that cater to underrepresented languages, thereby promoting digital inclusion and bridging language barriers.

Under Khapra’s leadership, AI4Bharat conducted an extensive project that involved researchers visiting nearly 500 of India’s 700 districts. They recorded thousands of hours of voice data from individuals across various educational and socioeconomic backgrounds, capturing the linguistic diversity of the nation. These efforts have resulted in datasets that are now utilized by startups, government programs, and legal institutions, facilitating the development of AI applications that serve a broader population.

Khapra’s academic journey began at IIT Bombay, where he completed both his M.Tech and Ph.D. Prior to his tenure at IIT Madras, he worked at IBM Research India, contributing to advancements in machine translation and deep learning. His recognition by TIME underscores the impact of his work in reshaping AI research and applications to be more inclusive and representative of India’s linguistic diversity.

This acknowledgment not only celebrates Khapra’s individual achievements but also highlights the growing importance of inclusive AI research in addressing the needs of diverse populations.

Tags: IIT MadrasMitesh Khapra

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Education

Bundelkhand University Confirms Authenticity of Ex-MSU VC’s PhD After Initial Controversy

Observenow Desk

Bundelkhand University has officially reversed its earlier decision labeling the PhD of former Madhya Pradesh State University Vice-Chancellor Vijay Srivastava as “fake and forged.” The university issued a signed clarification and attested certificate confirming that Srivastava’s doctoral thesis, titled “A Study of Fats and Fatty Acids in Some Plants of Bundelkhand Region,” is authentic.

The controversy began when Bundelkhand University initially questioned the validity of Srivastava’s PhD, leading to public scrutiny and media attention. However, after conducting a thorough verification process, the university acknowledged errors in its initial assessment and rectified the situation by confirming the authenticity of the degree.

This development has brought renewed attention to the case, raising questions about the verification processes employed by academic institutions and the potential consequences of such errors. The reversal of the earlier decision has not only cleared Srivastava’s name but also highlighted the importance of accurate and reliable verification procedures in maintaining the integrity of academic credentials.

The incident serves as a reminder of the critical role universities play in upholding the credibility of academic qualifications and the need for meticulous verification processes to prevent misunderstandings and protect the reputations of individuals involved.

As the situation unfolds, it underscores the significance of transparency and accountability in academic institutions, emphasizing the necessity for thorough and accurate assessments to ensure the trustworthiness of academic records and degrees.

Bundelkhand University’s prompt action to rectify the earlier mistake and confirm the authenticity of Srivastava’s PhD reflects a commitment to maintaining academic integrity and restoring confidence in its verification processes.

Tags: Bundelkhand UniversityVijay Srivastava

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Education Minister Pradhan to Visit UAE, Inaugurate First Foreign Atal Incubation Centre

Observenow Desk

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan embarked on a landmark visit to the United Arab Emirates on September 10, 2025, aimed at boosting educational collaboration and innovation between India and the UAE. During his trip, he inaugurated the first international Atal Incubation Centre at the IIT Delhi-Abu Dhabi campus, marking a major step in India’s Atal Innovation Mission reaching beyond national borders. The centre is designed to nurture startups, encourage entrepreneurial ventures, and foster a culture of innovation among students and aspiring entrepreneurs in the region.

At the IIT Delhi-Abu Dhabi campus, Minister Pradhan also launched new PhD and B.Tech programs, engaging with faculty and students to highlight opportunities for academic growth and research excellence. These programs are expected to strengthen technical education and create a bridge for global knowledge exchange. Minister Pradhan emphasized the importance of innovation-driven education in preparing students for future challenges and said the incubation centre would serve as a hub for technological advancement.

As part of his UAE itinerary, he also attended the first anniversary celebrations of Symbiosis University’s Dubai campus and visited the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing the cultural and educational linkages between the two countries. On the following day, he joined UAE officials, including H.E. Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, to inaugurate IIM Ahmedabad’s first international campus in Dubai, showcasing India’s expanding higher education footprint globally.

The visit further included a roundtable discussion with Indian higher education institutions operating in the UAE and the launch of Atal Tinkering Labs in Indian schools across the Emirates, aimed at promoting creativity and hands-on learning. Minister Pradhan’s tour highlights India’s commitment to global educational collaboration, entrepreneurship, and innovation, while creating opportunities for students and institutions to benefit from cross-border knowledge sharing and academic excellence.

Tags: Atal Incubation CentreDharmendra PradhanUnited Arab Emirates

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Digital Native

Indian AI Startups Face US Visa Hurdles

Observenow Desk September 9, 2025

Indian AI startups aiming to expand into the U.S. are confronting significant visa-related challenges, which are slowing their growth in one of the world’s most dynamic AI ecosystems. Entrepreneurs are reporting extended wait times for B1/B2 business visas, sometimes ranging from three to nine months, affecting their ability to meet clients, investors, and partners in the U.S. The O-1 visa, intended for individuals with extraordinary abilities, has also seen a slight increase in denial rates, creating further uncertainty for Indian founders seeking to establish a presence abroad.

These visa restrictions are reshaping how Indian AI startups operate internationally. Many companies are now hiring locally in the U.S. for business development roles while keeping engineering and technical teams in India. This strategy helps mitigate risks linked to visa delays and the potential reduction of programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT), which had previously allowed international graduates to work temporarily in the U.S.

Despite these hurdles, the United States remains a critical hub for AI innovation, funding, and networking. Startups are exploring alternative pathways such as the International Entrepreneur Rule (IER), which allows foreign entrepreneurs to remain in the U.S. for up to five years. While useful, this program is temporary and does not provide a direct route to permanent residency, meaning startups must plan carefully to balance immediate operational needs with long-term strategic goals.

Industry experts warn that unless visa processes are streamlined, Indian AI companies could face challenges in scaling rapidly, accessing cutting-edge talent, and forming crucial international partnerships. Nevertheless, the determination of these startups, combined with strong homegrown talent and innovative solutions, keeps them well-positioned to navigate these obstacles while continuing to expand globally.

The situation underscores the importance of flexible strategies for international expansion and proactive planning to ensure that Indian AI startups can thrive despite evolving U.S. immigration policies.

Tags: AI StartupsUS Visa Hurdles

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