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Autism Care Centre Crosses 1,000 Enrolments in 18 Months, Plans Major Expansion of Services

The Centre of Excellence for Persons with Autism has achieved a major milestone by registering more than 1,000 children within just 18 months of its launch, marking a significant step forward in specialised autism care and rehabilitation services in India. Established on December 5, 2024, at the Government Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine in K.K. Nagar, the centre has so far enrolled 1,050 children, with over 700 currently receiving regular therapy sessions. The facility now handles nearly 100 visitors daily and sees around eight to ten new patients each day, reflecting growing awareness and demand for specialised autism support services. According to officials, the centre initially received only a handful of patients in its first month, but steady word-of-mouth awareness has contributed to rapid growth. Families from across Tamil Nadu have approached the centre, while even visitors from countries including Canada and parts of the Middle East have sought consultation during their visits to India. The facility, which was initially supported by the National Health Mission, Tamil Nadu, is now preparing to expand its services significantly. Upcoming additions include physical education programmes, pre-vocational skill development for children under 18, vocational training for adults, and new infrastructure such as a hydrotherapy swimming pool and a sensory park designed specifically for therapeutic intervention. The centre operates with a multidisciplinary team comprising paediatricians, psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, physiotherapists, and special educators. Children visiting the facility first undergo screening by paediatricians using internationally recognised autism screening tools that help identify developmental concerns at an early age. Medical experts at the centre say early signs of autism often include limited response to name calling, communication difficulties, and challenges in social interaction. Following diagnosis, children undergo personalised therapy plans where specialists work on improving daily life skills and addressing developmental gaps. Doctors also note that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often occurs alongside other conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. In such cases, additional medical treatment is provided alongside therapy sessions to support overall development. The centre is also running a daycare programme in collaboration with the Madhuram Narayanan Centre for Exceptional Children, where young children receive structured training focused on building essential life skills. The curriculum covers hundreds of developmental activities ranging from eating independently and dressing to early writing skills. Looking ahead, the centre is developing a dedicated mobile application for parents and therapists to monitor therapy progress and treatment goals. Plans are also underway to introduce skill-based vocational programmes such as block printing, fireless cooking, computer training, and tailoring, aimed at improving long-term independence and employability for persons with autism. Source: The Hindu

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CBSE Eases Language Policy Transition, Allows Existing Students to Continue Two Foreign Languages Till Class 10

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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced relief for students in Classes 7 to 9 who are currently studying two foreign languages under the existing three-language framework. These students will now be permitted to continue with the same language combination until they complete Class 10. The decision comes shortly after CBSE declared that from July 1, Class 9 students would be required to follow a revised three-language policy mandating the study of three languages, including at least two Indian languages. Following concerns raised by students and parents, and legal challenges against the earlier directive, CBSE clarified that the updated language requirement will only be implemented prospectively. This means students already enrolled in Classes 7 to 9 will not be forced to switch their language choices midway through their schooling. A senior CBSE official confirmed that the revised policy aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 will begin applying from Class 6 onward, ensuring that ongoing batches are not affected retrospectively. An official circular explaining the revised stance is expected shortly. Earlier in May, CBSE had directed schools that until dedicated R3 language textbooks become available, students entering Class 9 in the 2026-27 academic year should temporarily use Class 6 R3 textbooks for their selected language. The updated language policy is part of CBSE’s larger curriculum reforms aimed at bringing school education in line with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. As per the May 15 circular, students wishing to study a foreign language under the new system will only be allowed to do so after completing two Indian languages, either as a third language option or as an additional fourth language. In another major academic reform, CBSE had earlier announced the phased rollout of the three-language formula from Class 6 and introduced a new two-level system for Mathematics and Science for Class 9 students from the 2026-27 academic session. Under the new structure, both Mathematics and Science will offer two levels — a compulsory standard level and an optional advanced level. While all students will take a common 80-mark examination, those seeking deeper subject proficiency can choose an additional advanced paper focused on conceptual understanding and higher-order thinking skills. CBSE has confirmed that the first Class 10 board examinations under this two-tier subject structure will take place in 2028 for students entering Class 9 in the 2026-27 academic year. Source: PTI

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Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella Raises Concerns Over Growing AI Power Concentration

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Satya Nadella, Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft, has voiced serious concerns about the increasing concentration of power within the artificial intelligence sector, cautioning against a future where only a few major companies control the rapidly evolving technology. In a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal, Nadella shared his perspective on the future of AI, emphasizing the importance of affordability, accessibility, and giving users greater control over how the technology develops and is deployed. He warned against a scenario where a small group of companies dominates AI development while simultaneously claiming that white-collar jobs could disappear and using those fears to justify massive investments in infrastructure such as large-scale data centres. According to Nadella, society is unlikely to accept a future where the benefits, learning, and deployment of AI remain concentrated in the hands of a select few organizations. Instead, he stressed the need for the industry to build public trust and earn what he referred to as “social permission” to continue advancing the technology responsibly. His comments come amid growing global debate over the direction of the AI race. Although he did not directly mention competitors, Nadella criticized business models where only a handful of firms capture most of the economic value generated by AI while also raising concerns about safety risks, employment disruption, and the enormous computing resources required for development. A key strategic question for Microsoft is whether it should host models from DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company that has recently gained attention worldwide for offering highly cost-effective AI models. Such a decision could intensify competition in the AI market and challenge established industry leaders by driving down costs. Nadella also pushed back against the idea that AI should replace human jobs entirely. Instead, he argued that businesses should focus on redesigning and restructuring work roles so employees can adapt alongside technological progress rather than being displaced permanently. While acknowledging that AI-driven transformation will inevitably bring disruption, he said companies must actively create pathways that help workers adjust to these changes and remain relevant in the evolving workforce. Describing AI as a “knowledge engine,” Nadella said the future should involve organizations leveraging multiple AI models with varying capabilities and price points rather than depending on a single dominant provider. He further emphasized that rebuilding public confidence in AI will require more than promises or carefully crafted narratives. According to Nadella, the technology industry must demonstrate through concrete action that AI development can be both responsible and beneficial for society. The remarks come at a time when competition around AI is accelerating globally, with major technology firms investing billions of dollars into infrastructure, advanced computing systems, and data centres. Microsoft continues to remain one of the leading forces shaping the future of the AI ecosystem through its partnerships and investments across the sector. Source: IANS

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One Billion More People Now Exposed to Extreme Heat Stress Than in the 1970s, Study Finds

admin / Health & Wellness Community

A new study has revealed that nearly one billion more people across the world are now experiencing at least one day of extreme heat stress every year compared to the 1970s, highlighting the growing intensity, frequency, and duration of dangerous heat conditions globally. The research, conducted by scientists from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts based in the U.K. and Germany, suggests that governments urgently need stronger heat-health action plans, early warning systems, urban cooling strategies, and improved climate risk assessments to better protect populations from rising heat-related threats. Heat stress refers to the overall heat burden placed on the human body and is determined by multiple environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation. Researchers used the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI), commonly described as a “feels-like” temperature, to evaluate how these combined factors impact human health. Published in the journal Nature Climate Change, the study examined global heat stress data spanning from 1950 to 2024 and found that both daytime and nighttime temperatures have significantly intensified since the 1970s. According to the researchers, during the 1970s nearly 55 percent of the world’s population experienced around 90 days of strong heat stress annually. In today’s climate, that figure has increased to 70 percent. Exposure to at least one day of extreme heat stress has also risen from 16 percent to 22 percent globally, translating into roughly one billion additional people being affected. The analysis further found that nighttime temperatures are rising faster than daytime temperatures. The 10 warmest nights recorded annually have been warming at an average rate of 0.32 degrees Celsius per decade, slightly higher than the 0.27 degrees Celsius increase observed during the 10 hottest daytime periods. Researchers also noted that extreme “feels-like” temperatures are becoming more frequent across every continent, with subtropical regions witnessing the sharpest rise in heat exposure. Areas including southern parts of North America, southern Europe, northern and southern Africa, as well as South America, are now facing up to 50 extra days every year of strong to extreme heat stress compared to conditions seen in the 1970s. The findings add to growing concerns over the accelerating impact of climate change and underline the urgent need for countries worldwide to develop stronger adaptation measures as extreme heat events become increasingly common. Source: PTI

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Google DeepMind Invests $75 Million in A24 to Bring AI Innovation to Hollywood Filmmaking

admin / Media Entertainment & Art Community

In a major move that signals the growing intersection of artificial intelligence and entertainment, Google DeepMind has announced a $75 million partnership with acclaimed independent film studio A24 Films to develop AI-powered tools designed specifically for the filmmaking industry. The collaboration, described as a “first-of-its-kind” partnership, will allow both companies to work together on building advanced AI technologies aimed at supporting filmmakers throughout the creative process. As part of the deal, Google DeepMind will work closely with A24 and receive direct feedback from leading artists and creators to shape these tools effectively. Demis Hassabis, co-founder and CEO of Google DeepMind, said the company believes the best way to build useful creative technology is by partnering directly with artists from the very beginning. He emphasized that the goal is to create AI features that enhance authentic storytelling while helping creators bring their artistic vision to life. Known for producing critically acclaimed films such as Everything Everywhere All at Once, Marty Supreme, and the recent blockbuster Backrooms, A24 has become one of Hollywood’s most influential studios. The company has also collaborated with top stars including Timothée Chalamet and Anne Hathaway on several major productions. The partnership comes amid ongoing debate in Hollywood over the increasing role of AI in film production. However, A24 is not alone in exploring this technology. Earlier this year, Netflix announced the acquisition of filmmaker Ben Affleck’s AI-focused company InterPositive, while Amazon MGM Studios launched its own AI division last year to develop tools for television and movie production. The deal highlights how major technology companies and entertainment studios are increasingly joining forces to redefine the future of content creation through artificial intelligence. Source: TechCrunch

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CUET UG 2026 Results Declared: 22 Students Score 100 Percentile in Three Subjects, Over 11.6 Lakh Appeared

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The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially announced the results for Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate 2026, bringing relief to lakhs of students across the country. Candidates can now check and download their scorecards from CUET Official Website. According to the data released by NTA, only one student achieved an exceptional feat by securing a perfect 100 percentile score in four out of the five subjects they appeared for. Meanwhile, 22 candidates scored 100 percentile in three subjects, 180 students secured the same in two subjects, and as many as 3,214 candidates obtained a perfect percentile in one subject. This year, female participation saw a significant rise. Out of the total registrations, 7,74,607 women candidates registered compared to 7,94,257 male candidates. Interestingly, more women appeared for the exam, with 5,85,596 female candidates taking the test against 5,78,500 male candidates. Two candidates from the third-gender category also appeared for the exam. Overall, 11,64,098 candidates appeared for CUET UG 2026, out of more than 15 lakh registrations. NTA stated that the results were prepared based on the final answer key reviewed by subject experts and released on June 23. The agency also highlighted an improved evaluation process this year, announcing results within just 16 days after the completion of exams — 14 days faster than the previous year. Students can download their scorecards by visiting the official CUET portal, clicking on the result link, logging in with their application number and password or date of birth, and downloading the result for future use. CUET UG scores will now be used for undergraduate admissions in 49 central universities, including prestigious institutions such as University of Delhi, Banaras Hindu University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Jamia Millia Islamia, and University of Hyderabad, along with several state, private, and deemed universities. NTA clarified that while it conducts the examination and publishes results, admission procedures such as counselling, cut-offs, merit lists, and seat allocation will be handled independently by participating universities according to their own admission policies. Compared to last year, CUET UG 2026 witnessed higher participation and improved performance. In 2025, 13.5 lakh students had registered, with 17 candidates scoring 100 percentile in three subjects and only one candidate scoring perfect marks in four subjects. Source: Indian Express

CUET UG 2026 Results Declared: 22 Students Score 100 Percentile in Three Subjects, Over 11.6 Lakh Appeared Read More »

Ahmedabad’s Krishiv Achyut Dani emerges as National Topper as he scores 499/500 in CBSE Class XII After Re-evaluation with Perfect 100s in 4 Core Subjects

admin / Press Release

In an extraordinary academic achievement, Krishiv Achyut Dani, a student of ASIA English School, Ahmedabad, has secured an outstanding 499 out of 500 marks (99.8%) in the CBSE Class XII Board Examination after the re-evaluation process, placing him as the highest scorer in the country. Krishiv’s score increased significantly from 481 marks to 499 marks following the CBSE re-evaluation process, highlighting the effectiveness and transparency of the Board’s grievance redressal mechanism. His revised result includes a perfect 100 out of 100 marks in Accountancy, Entrepreneurship, Artificial Intelligence and Business Studies, while he scored an exceptional 99 out of 100 in English Core, resulting in an aggregate score of 499/500. This makes him a national topper in the commerce core subjects after re-evaluation. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that Krishiv accomplished this feat entirely through self-study, without attending any tuition classes or coaching institutes. His disciplined approach, dedication, and consistent hard work enabled him to achieve one of the finest academic performances in the country. Krishiv comes from a family with a strong academic and professional background. Both his parents are Chartered Accountants, and he has been inspired by their commitment to excellence and professionalism. He is currently pursuing the Chartered Accountancy programme and aspires to become a successful Chartered Accountant and entrepreneur in the future. Speaking about his achievement, Krishiv credited his success to disciplined self-study, support from his family, and the guidance provided by his school teachers. He emphasized the importance of consistency, conceptual clarity, and effective time management in achieving academic excellence. The achievement also reflects positively on the CBSE’s evaluation and re-evaluation framework. The significant improvement in marks after re-evaluation demonstrates the Board’s commitment to ensuring fairness, transparency, and accuracy in the assessment process. Such mechanisms provide students with confidence that their performance is evaluated objectively and that genuine discrepancies can be addressed through a structured review process. School authorities congratulated Krishiv on his exceptional accomplishment and described him as a role model for students across the country. His success serves as a powerful reminder that focused self-learning, determination, and perseverance can produce extraordinary results even without external coaching support. Krishiv’s remarkable performance has brought immense pride to his family, school, and the city of Ahmedabad, inspiring countless students to pursue academic excellence through dedication and hard work. ( Disclaimer: This report is generated from PRO services. ‘ArdorComm Media’ holds no responsibility for its content. )

Ahmedabad’s Krishiv Achyut Dani emerges as National Topper as he scores 499/500 in CBSE Class XII After Re-evaluation with Perfect 100s in 4 Core Subjects Read More »

Indian Railways Approves Kavach Safety System Deployment Across Key East Coast Railway Routes

admin / Governance Community

Indian Railways has approved the deployment of the Automatic Train Protection system, Kavach, across 631 route kilometres under East Coast Railway, aiming to further strengthen railway safety and improve operational efficiency. According to the Railways Ministry, the project will cover six major railway sections under East Coast Railway, including Baghuapal–Budhapank, Haridaspur–Paradeep, Khurda Road–Balangir, Naupada–Gunupur, Lanjigarh Road–Junagarh, and Bobbili–Salur. The installation of Kavach, India’s indigenous automatic train protection technology, is designed to significantly improve train safety by enabling collision prevention and automatic braking systems, reducing the chances of accidents caused by human error. The railway ministry stated that the project will enhance the safety of both passenger and freight train operations across critical rail corridors in Odisha and surrounding regions connected through East Coast Railway. This initiative is part of Indian Railways’ broader mission to expand Kavach coverage on high-density and strategically important railway routes, reinforcing its commitment to safer and smarter rail transportation across the country. Source: News on AIR

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EPF Interest Rate Retained at 8.25% for FY26; UPI-Based Withdrawals to Roll Out Soon

admin / Governance Community

The central government has officially approved an 8.25% interest rate on Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) deposits for the financial year 2025-26, keeping the rate unchanged for the third consecutive year. As per government officials, the interest amount is expected to be credited to more than 70 million contributing subscribers by the end of this month. The decision comes after approval by the Central Board of Trustees (CBT), the apex decision-making body of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation, with final clearance now granted by the finance ministry. In a significant push towards digital convenience, the government has also approved UPI-based withdrawals under the upcoming EPFO 3.0 platform. This new feature will allow EPF subscribers to access their provident fund savings directly through UPI apps and ATMs, making the withdrawal process quicker and reducing dependency on paperwork. The labour ministry is expected to officially notify these reforms by the end of the month, paving the way for a more streamlined and digitally enabled EPF ecosystem for millions of workers across India. Source: Economic Times

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ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2026 held in Chennai, Tamil Nadu on 19th June, 2026

admin / Blogs

The ArdorComm – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2026 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu concluded successfully on 19th June 2026, bringing together an extraordinary gathering of educators, policymakers, government dignitaries, industry leaders, EdTech innovators, and academic visionaries under one roof to deliberate on the future of education in India. Organized by ArdorComm Media Group, one of India’s growing media organizations focused on education, governance, technology, healthcare, and leadership communities, the summit revolved around the central theme: “Future-Ready Tamil Nadu: Learning in the Age of AI, Skills & Inclusion.” The event served as a dynamic knowledge-sharing platform that highlighted Tamil Nadu’s growing prominence as one of India’s strongest education and skilling ecosystems while addressing the evolving needs of a rapidly transforming digital world. Celebrating Tamil Nadu’s Educational Excellence Tamil Nadu has long been recognized as one of India’s leading states in literacy, academic excellence, industrial development, and workforce readiness. Cities such as Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Salem, Vellore, Tiruchirappalli, and Thanjavur have established themselves as important centers for higher education, innovation, research, and industry growth. Against this backdrop, ArdorComm brought together influential stakeholders from across the education ecosystem to discuss how institutions can prepare students for a future shaped by artificial intelligence, automation, digital transformation, and evolving employment landscapes. Industry Leaders and Keynote Speakers The summit commenced with an inspiring Inaugural Session centered around the theme “Future-Ready Tamil Nadu: Learning in the Age of AI, Skills & Inclusion,” setting the tone for a day of meaningful dialogue on the future of education and skill development. The session began with a warm Welcome Address by Kumar Chandan Anand, Founder, CEO & Group Editor, ArdorComm Media Group, who highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in transforming India’s education ecosystem for a rapidly evolving digital future. The event was further enriched by the presence of distinguished Special Guests, including Dr. M. Jayaprakasan, ISDS, Regional Director, RDSDE (Tamil Nadu), NSTI (Chennai & Trichy), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India, and Dr. S. Kannappan, Director, School Education, Directorate of School Education, Government of Tamil Nadu, who shared valuable perspectives on policy initiatives, skill development, and strengthening educational infrastructure. Adding further depth to the session, esteemed Guest Speakers Dr. Manjula Pooja Shroff, MD and CEO, Kalorex Group, and Dr. Smt. Uma Kannan, Founder Principal, Sri Venkateswara Group of Schools, delivered insightful thoughts on innovation in education, leadership, and preparing institutions to build inclusive and future-ready learning environments in the age of AI. Panel Discussion 1 focused on the crucial theme “Essential Skills for the 21st Century: Preparing Students for the Future of Work,” where education leaders explored the growing importance of equipping students with competencies required to thrive in an increasingly dynamic and technology-driven global workforce. The session was expertly moderated by Jagannathan D, Principal, Victoria School CBSE, Thoothukudi, who guided an engaging discussion on bridging the gap between traditional academic learning and industry expectations. Distinguished panelists including Dr. K. Maran, Director, Sri Sai Ram Institute of Management Studies, Chennai, Barath Silvester Raj, Principal, Sri Venkateswara Public Senior Secondary School, Chennai, and Dr. Nisha Nair, Principal, Jesus School for Excellence, Vadakkankulam, shared valuable insights on the need to foster critical thinking, communication skills, adaptability, leadership, creativity, and problem-solving abilities among students. The discussion emphasized that future-ready education must go beyond academics and focus on building well-rounded individuals capable of navigating the evolving demands of tomorrow’s workplace. Panel Discussion 2 centered on the important theme “Inclusive, Equitable & Accessible Education: Bridging Rural-Urban Learning Gaps,” highlighting the urgent need to create an education ecosystem that ensures equal learning opportunities for every student regardless of geography or socio-economic background. The session was thoughtfully moderated by Sivaprakasam Raman, Director, Hindu Global School, Erode & Salem, who steered the discussion around addressing disparities in access to quality education and building more inclusive learning environments. Esteemed panelists including Anand R, CEO – Preschool Division, Proelium Learning Solutions, Dr. Smt. Uma Kannan, Founder Principal, Sri Venkateswara Group of Schools, Ambattur, Dr. T. Arul Raj, Principal, International Delhi Public School, Kuppam, and D. Aida Emelensia, Director & Chairman, Trinity Group of Institution, Chennai, shared valuable perspectives on reducing educational inequalities through innovative teaching practices, stronger institutional support, improved infrastructure, and technology-driven accessibility. The discussion reinforced the collective responsibility of educators and policymakers in ensuring education remains inclusive, equitable, and accessible for learners across both rural and urban communities. Panel Discussion 3 explored the highly relevant theme “EdTech, Hybrid Learning & Digital Inclusion: Affordability, Accessibility & Digital Wellbeing,” focusing on how technology continues to transform modern education while ensuring learning remains inclusive and sustainable for all. The session was moderated by Venkatesh V, Associate Director, META-i Technologies Pvt. Ltd., who guided an engaging conversation around the opportunities and challenges of integrating digital solutions into education systems. The distinguished panel featured Prof. Godwin Tennyson, Director (I/C), IIM Tiruchirappalli, Prof. (Dr.) D. Viswanathan, Rector – Research and Development, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Dr. Shaleesha A. Stanley, Pro Chancellor, Jeppiaar University, Chennai, Bastin Thomas, Founder & CEO, Linways Technologies Pvt Ltd, and Dheepan Thangavelu, Vice Chairman, Sri Shakthi Group of Institutions, Tamil Nadu. The discussion highlighted the growing importance of hybrid learning models, affordable access to digital infrastructure, student wellbeing in technology-driven environments, and the role of EdTech innovation in creating scalable, future-focused learning experiences that can reach learners across diverse communities. Panel Discussion 4 focused on the transformative theme “Building Intelligent Education Ecosystems: AI, Automation & the Future of Student Experience,” highlighting how emerging technologies are redefining the education landscape and shaping the next generation of learning environments. The session was moderated by Dr. R. Hariprakash, Pro Vice Chancellor, Bharath Institute of Higher Education & Research (Deemed to be University), Chennai, who steered an insightful discussion on integrating artificial intelligence and automation into academic institutions to enhance learning outcomes and institutional efficiency. The esteemed panel featured Sameer Nazar, Deputy Manager, Meritto, Dr. M. A. Maluk Mohamed, Co-founder / VP (Research) / Head (India), Twin Health Inc & Chairman, MASTeR Group of Institutions (MAMCET

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