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Indian Institutions in QS Rankings Rise from 11 to 52 Since NIRF Launch: Centre

/ Education Community

India’s presence in global higher education rankings has expanded significantly over the past decade, with the number of Indian institutions featured in the QS World University Rankings rising from 11 in 2015 to 52 in the 2027 edition, the Centre informed the Lok Sabha on Monday. The government linked the growth to efforts to strengthen the quality, competitiveness and global visibility of Indian higher education institutions following the launch of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) in 2015. NIRF was introduced to assess and rank higher education institutions across the country. Its evaluation framework covers teaching, learning and resources; research and professional practices; graduation outcomes; outreach and inclusivity; and peer perception. NIRF participation more than doubles The government response also highlighted a substantial rise in participation in the national ranking exercise. The number of applications submitted to NIRF increased from 6,272 in 2021 to 14,163 in 2025. Over the same period, the number of unique institutions participating in NIRF grew from 4,030 to 7,692, reflecting wider participation across India’s higher education sector. More Indian institutions make gains in QS rankings The QS World University Rankings 2027 indicate that India’s progress is increasingly extending beyond the country’s traditional IIT-led group of institutions. Of the 52 Indian institutions included in the latest rankings, 26 improved their positions, while nine retained their previous ranks. Another 15 institutions saw their rankings decline, while two institutions made their debut in the global rankings. Eighteen Indian institutions recorded their highest-ever QS positions, with 13 of them coming from outside the IIT system. Among the leading Indian institutions, IIT Delhi moved up five places to rank 118th globally, equalling the highest position ever attained by an Indian institution. IIT Bombay, which had reached the same position in the 2026 edition, slipped five places to 134th. IIT Madras improved to 170th, while IIT Kharagpur climbed to 205th. IISc Bengaluru was placed at 221st. Several non-IIT institutions recorded particularly notable gains. Shoolini University moved up 51 places to 452nd, while BITS Pilani jumped 93 places to 575th. VIT made one of the biggest advances, rising 94 places to 597th. IIT Hyderabad improved by 76 places, while Jamia Millia Islamia climbed more than 75 positions to rank 686th. NEP 2020 among key government initiatives The Centre attributed the improvement in the global standing of Indian institutions to a range of policy measures, including initiatives introduced under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The policy places emphasis on multidisciplinary education, critical thinking, research and innovation, improved infrastructure and faculty development. The government also cited the Institutions of Eminence scheme, funding and institutional support provided through RUSA and PM-USHA, and the expansion of premier higher education institutions as contributing factors. Since 2014, the government said, 43 new premier institutions have been established, including seven IITs, eight Central universities and nine IIMs. The rising number of Indian institutions in the QS rankings, alongside broader participation in NIRF, points to a widening global footprint for India’s higher education sector and growing competition among institutions to improve academic and research performance. Source: Indian Express

Indian Institutions in QS Rankings Rise from 11 to 52 Since NIRF Launch: Centre Read More »

Disney+ Secures Global Streaming Rights to Formula E Racing Across 140+ Markets

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

Disney+ has secured global streaming rights to the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship across more than 140 territories, bringing one of the world’s leading electric racing series to audiences in 144 markets. The landmark agreement will provide Formula E with a more unified global streaming presence while allowing the championship to retain existing local television partnerships in key markets. In the United States, Formula E races will be available on ESPN’s streaming service, now known as ESPN Select. Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds said the partnership marks a major milestone for the championship, with Disney’s international reach expected to introduce the electric racing series to a much wider audience. Formula E, which held its first season in 2014, operates independently of Formula 1 and focuses exclusively on electric-powered racing and automotive technology. Disney+ deal comes ahead of GEN4 launch The streaming agreement comes as Formula E prepares to enter a new technological phase with the introduction of its GEN4 racing car. Formula E describes GEN4 as its fastest and most technologically advanced electric race car yet. The vehicle is capable of producing 600 kilowatts of power, equivalent to more than 815 horsepower, and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 1.8 seconds. The championship says the acceleration is roughly 30% faster than that of a Formula 1 car, underscoring the technological advances being made in electric motorsport. 21-race season planned for 2026-27 Formula E is scheduled to stage 21 races across 13 locations during the 2026-27 season. The campaign will begin with the opening two rounds in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on December 18 and 19, before concluding in Tokyo in July. Dodds said Disney+ could play a key role in expanding Formula E’s international audience as the championship enters the GEN4 era. The partnership could also extend beyond live race coverage, with both sides exploring additional content and fan-focused experiences. Formula E Chief Media Officer Michaella Snoeck said retaining local linear television agreements alongside Disney+’s global streaming reach would allow the championship to serve established audiences while expanding its digital footprint. Live sports drive streaming growth Disney’s move into Formula E reflects the broader streaming industry’s growing focus on live sports as a way to attract and retain subscribers. High-profile sporting events can provide recurring, appointment-based viewing and encourage audiences to remain engaged with streaming platforms. Formula E’s emphasis on electric mobility, technological innovation and sustainability also aligns with Disney’s broader brand positioning. Disney+ branding will appear on the GEN4 race car during the upcoming season alongside other major commercial partners. Joe Earley, co-president of Direct to Consumer for Disney Entertainment, said Formula E’s combination of competition, technology and sustainability makes it a distinctive addition to Disney+’s live sports offering. The partnership is expected to give Formula E a significantly broader global digital platform as the championship prepares for its next generation of electric racing. Source: Variety

Disney+ Secures Global Streaming Rights to Formula E Racing Across 140+ Markets Read More »

150 Years of Vande Mataram to Take Centre Stage at 80th Independence Day Celebrations

/ Governance Community

The commemoration of 150 years of the National Song “Vande Mataram” will be among the key highlights of India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations this year, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said during a media briefing in New Delhi. The celebrations will focus on two major themes — the contribution of young Indians towards building a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the celebrations from the historic Red Fort, where he will unfurl the National Flag and address the nation. For the first time, Vande Mataram will be performed from the ramparts of the Red Fort as part of the Independence Day ceremony. The venue will feature floral decorations inspired by the National Song, while nearly 2,500 NCC cadets and My Bharat volunteers will create a ‘Vande Mataram’ formation along Gyanpath. The National Song will also be performed collectively at the Red Fort with the participation of Service bands. Those present will stand at attention during the rendition. Following the Prime Minister’s address, NCC cadets and My Bharat volunteers will sing Vande Mataram, followed by the National Anthem. An aerial display by Mi-17 helicopters will add to the ceremony, featuring the National Flag, flower petals and a special banner marking 150 years of Vande Mataram. Armed Forces Bands to Perform Nationwide As part of the broader Independence Day celebrations, bands from the armed forces and other uniformed services will perform at 343 prominent locations across the country between August 8 and 15. The participating contingents will include bands from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, NCC, CRPF, ITBP, CISF, SSB, BSF, IDS, RPF and Assam Rifles. Yuva Shakti to Be a Key Theme The second major theme of this year’s celebrations is “Yuva Shakti – Leading the Journey to Viksit Bharat@2047”, with a special focus on young achievers and contributors to India’s development journey. Nineteen medal-winning students from the 2026 International Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics Olympiads have been invited as special guests. Young innovators, PM Internship Scheme interns, startup representatives, PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana trainees, My Bharat volunteers and beneficiaries of various government programmes will also attend. Around 500 students from Delhi government schools, selected through quizzes and competitions, will be part of the Independence Day ceremony. The event will also recognise a diverse group of people contributing to the Viksit Bharat vision. These include women entrepreneurs supported through PM Mudra, PMAY-U beneficiaries, scientists and innovators, Bharat Taxi drivers, PM Surya Ghar beneficiaries, PM Vishwakarma artisans, PM Shram Yogi Maandhan beneficiaries, farmers and International Yoga Day volunteers. Special Arrangements for Invitees More than 1,500 people from Delhi representing different states and Union Territories have been invited to the celebrations. They will attend the event wearing traditional attire representing their respective regions. To facilitate their travel, Delhi Metro services will commence at 4 am on Independence Day and will be available free of cost for invitees. Around 200 My Bharat and NCC volunteers will assist visitors at the venue, including those requiring wheelchair support. Facilities such as cloakrooms, drinking water, toilets and rain ponchos will also be provided. Parking locations will be made available through Google Maps and Mappls to help visitors plan their journey. Following the main ceremony, NCC cadets and My Bharat volunteers will conduct a cleanliness drive at the Red Fort. The initiative will include systematic plogging and the prompt removal of waste from the premises. Source: News on AIR  

150 Years of Vande Mataram to Take Centre Stage at 80th Independence Day Celebrations Read More »

ICMR Has Not Studied Whether Ultra-Processed Foods Show Addiction-Like Behaviour: Centre

/ Health & Wellness Community

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has not conducted any study to determine whether ultra-processed foods (UPFs) display addiction-like behavioural characteristics similar to tobacco or other habit-forming substances, the government informed the Lok Sabha. Responding to a written question in Parliament, Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav said ICMR’s assessment is based on available global scientific evidence, which links higher consumption of ultra-processed foods with a greater risk of several health problems. These include obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and certain mental health disorders. However, the minister clarified that such conditions have multiple contributing factors, with excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods being only one of several modifiable risk factors. The government also pointed out that much of the existing evidence on UPFs and health outcomes is observational. Therefore, the available research does not, on its own, establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. ICMR Steps Up Nutrition Awareness Jadhav said ICMR has undertaken various measures to educate the public about the potential health risks associated with excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods. The Dietary Guidelines for Indians, 2024, advise people to limit their intake of free sugars, avoid frequent consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and reduce their intake of ultra-processed foods. The guidelines also encourage consumers to identify such products and read food labels before making purchasing decisions. ICMR has additionally launched the “Let’s Fix Our Food” initiative in partnership with national and international organisations. The programme focuses on creating healthier food environments for children and adolescents by working with schools, parents, policymakers and civil society organisations. The initiative aims to develop evidence-based communication resources, improve food environments in schools and encourage healthier eating habits, while discouraging the consumption of foods high in sugar, fat and salt. The minister said ICMR also conducts nutrition awareness activities through public lectures, workshops, training programmes, National Nutrition Month campaigns and other public health initiatives. Educational material on nutrition is also disseminated in regional languages. FSSAI Campaigns Promote Healthier Eating The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has also introduced several initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices. These include the “Eat Right India” movement and the “Aaj Se Thoda Kam” campaign, which encourages consumers to reduce their intake of fat, salt and sugar. FSSAI is also using social media campaigns to raise awareness about obesity and related health concerns. In collaboration with MyGov, FSSAI has launched the “Eat Right Quiz on Obesity”. Its #HarLabelKuchKehtaHai campaign seeks to help consumers better understand nutritional information and other details provided on food labels. Jadhav said FSSAI has established quality and safety standards for a range of food products, aligned with international standards including those developed by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. Existing regulations also govern the levels of sugar, salt and fat in food products. Under the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, food manufacturers are required to disclose nutritional information such as energy, protein, carbohydrates, total sugars, added sugars, total fat and sodium, along with ingredient details. The rules also prohibit false or misleading labels. Meanwhile, the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018 require food-related advertisements and health claims to be truthful, scientifically supported and not misleading. Claims that a food product can prevent, treat or cure diseases are prohibited unless specifically allowed under the law. The government said violations of these regulations can result in regulatory and punitive action against non-compliant food business operators under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Source: PTI

ICMR Has Not Studied Whether Ultra-Processed Foods Show Addiction-Like Behaviour: Centre Read More »

India’s Single-Teacher Schools Decline by 3,282, But Five States Record Sharp Rise

/ Education Community

India recorded a net decline of 3,282 single-teacher schools in 2025-26, with their total number falling from 1,04,125 in 2024-25 to 1,00,843, according to data from the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+). The figures were also presented in the Rajya Sabha in late July in response to a question concerning teacher vacancies. A single-teacher school is one where one teacher handles multiple classes and subjects, making it an important indicator of staffing shortages and resource constraints in school education. However, the national decline masks significant differences between states. Five states alone reported a combined reduction of more than 11,000 single-teacher schools, more than three times the overall national decline. This was offset by substantial increases in several other states, resulting in a net reduction of 3,282 schools nationally. Madhya Pradesh records biggest decline Madhya Pradesh reported the largest reduction, with its number of single-teacher schools dropping from 7,217 in 2024-25 to 2,269 in 2025-26 — a fall of 4,948 schools. Chhattisgarh recorded the second-largest decline, reducing its count by 3,512, from 5,973 to 2,461. Uttar Pradesh, which continues to have one of the highest numbers of such schools among major states, saw the figure fall from 9,508 to 7,874, a reduction of 1,634. Punjab and Gujarat also registered notable declines, with their single-teacher school numbers falling by 682 and 601 respectively. Andhra Pradesh sees largest increase In contrast, Andhra Pradesh recorded the biggest increase in the country. The state’s single-teacher schools rose from 12,912 in 2024-25 to 16,357 in 2025-26, an increase of 3,445. Maharashtra reported an addition of 1,117 such schools, while Rajasthan saw an increase of 1,083. Karnataka and Jharkhand recorded increases of 693 and 655 respectively. The contrasting trends indicate that the national improvement has not been evenly distributed across the country. Government response does not explain state-wise variation The Centre’s response in the Rajya Sabha did not provide a state-specific explanation for the sharp variations. It cited factors such as teacher retirements, resignations, creation of new posts, rationalisation of teacher deployment and changes in student enrolment as general reasons for teacher vacancies. The government also did not provide the state-wise sanctioned, working and vacant teacher positions sought in the original question. It said such information is maintained by individual state governments and Union Territory administrations. Instead, the response provided the number of teachers currently in position and the number of single-teacher schools based on UDISE+ 2025-26 data. This means the available figures alone cannot establish whether reductions in single-teacher schools were primarily due to new teacher appointments. Other factors, including school mergers, closures or changes in classification, could also have contributed. Pupil-teacher ratio indicates improvement The latest data also point towards relatively favourable pupil-teacher ratios, although the two years cannot be compared directly because the figures were presented differently. UDISE+ 2024-25 reported an overall national pupil-teacher ratio of 24 students per teacher. For 2025-26, the government provided level-wise ratios of 19 at the primary level, 17 at upper primary, 15 at secondary and 23 at higher secondary. All four ratios are below the 2024-25 composite figure. The government said these figures remain within the benchmarks outlined under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which recommends a pupil-teacher ratio below 30 nationally and below 25 in areas with a high proportion of socio-economically disadvantaged students. While the figures suggest an improvement in teacher availability, the different methods of reporting mean they should not be treated as a direct year-on-year comparison. Source: Indian Express

India’s Single-Teacher Schools Decline by 3,282, But Five States Record Sharp Rise Read More »

Children Under 13 May Need Parental Consent to Join Social Media, Gaming Platforms Under Proposed Bill

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

Children below the age of 13 may be prohibited from creating accounts on social media and online gaming platforms without verified parental consent under a proposed private member’s bill introduced by BJP MP Baijayant Panda. The Safeguarding Healthy Internet Environments for Little Digital-Natives (SHIELD) Bill, 2025, seeks to establish stronger safeguards for children using digital platforms. The proposed legislation would also prevent platforms from tracking, profiling or serving personalised advertisements to minors. The bill was listed for introduction in Parliament on Friday but could not be taken up as proceedings were disrupted by repeated adjournments. Another private member’s bill on preventing the misuse of artificial intelligence to generate realistic replicas of individuals was also scheduled for introduction. Under the proposed legislation, platforms accessible to minors would be required to implement age-verification mechanisms and provide parental-control dashboards. These tools would enable parents or guardians to monitor online activity, adjust privacy settings and control children’s screen time. The SHIELD Bill defines a child as an individual below 18 years of age and proposes specific safety obligations for social media networks, online gaming services and other digital intermediaries. The legislation seeks to prohibit platforms from collecting or using children’s data for tracking, profiling or personalised advertising. It would also require platforms to take measures to limit minors’ exposure to potentially harmful material, including pornography, gambling and simulated betting, violent or extremist content, and information related to drugs. Companies found violating the proposed provisions could face fines of up to ₹10 crore. In cases involving repeated or deliberate violations, authorities could potentially order the temporary suspension or blocking of services under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act. However, the proposed legislation still faces a long legislative path. Private members’ bills are rarely enacted into law, with only a small number having successfully cleared Parliament since Independence. Source: Hindustan Times  

Children Under 13 May Need Parental Consent to Join Social Media, Gaming Platforms Under Proposed Bill Read More »

Netflix marks 10 years in India; CEO Ted Sarandos meets PM Modi, launches storytelling initiative

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Wednesday as the streaming giant celebrated a decade of operations in India and announced the Netflix India Storytelling Initiative, a long-term investment aimed at developing the country’s creative talent ecosystem. The multi-phase initiative seeks to strengthen India’s pipeline of creators in animation, visual effects (VFX), gaming and comics, building on Netflix’s collaboration with the Indian creative industry over the past 10 years. During this period, the platform has produced more than 200 original titles and filmed across 100+ locations in the country. According to Netflix, the initiative aligns with the government’s Viksit Bharat @ 2047 vision by enhancing skill development, industry partnerships and creator training to position India as a global storytelling hub. As part of the first phase, Netflix will collaborate with the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) to jointly develop specialised courses in Visual Effects Mastery and Media Technology Workflows. The company will also sponsor 100 scholarships for Indian students enrolled in IICT’s in-person programmes, covering areas such as interactive comics, sequential art, virtual production, character animation, and e-sports and gaming management. In another key partnership, Netflix has joined hands with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to train audio description writers and voice artists, making films and series more accessible to audiences with visual and hearing impairments while adhering to international accessibility standards. Sarandos said India has long been one of the world’s richest storytelling nations and reaffirmed Netflix’s commitment to investing in the next generation of Indian creators. He added that strengthening the country’s creative ecosystem would create more opportunities for emerging talent while taking Indian stories to global audiences. The visit also commemorated Netflix’s 10-year journey in India through an event organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Tourism. During the event, the Ministry of Tourism and Netflix India launched “As Seen on Netflix,” a dedicated section on the Incredible India website that allows viewers to explore real-life locations, cultural traditions and experiences featured in Netflix productions. Sarandos also participated in a fireside discussion with Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at the National Gallery of Modern Art, where they highlighted the role of authentic storytelling in promoting tourism, preserving cultural heritage and supporting India’s creative economy. The event also showcased two new promotional films celebrating India’s wildlife and cultural heritage. The collaboration builds upon a memorandum of understanding signed between the Ministry of Tourism and Netflix India last year to promote India’s tourism and cultural diplomacy through storytelling. Highlighting its decade-long journey in India, Netflix cited acclaimed productions such as The Elephant Whisperers, Amar Singh Chamkila, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, Musafir Café, Made in Korea and the upcoming patriotic series Operation Safed Sagar as examples of Indian stories resonating with audiences worldwide. As Netflix enters its second decade in India, the company said it will continue investing in India’s creative workforce while helping more local stories reach international audiences. Source: Variety

Netflix marks 10 years in India; CEO Ted Sarandos meets PM Modi, launches storytelling initiative Read More »

UGC flags 32 fake universities, warns students against EdTech franchise-based online degree programmes

/ Education Community

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has identified 32 institutions as fake universities in its latest list released in February 2026, the Ministry of Education informed the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The disclosure came in response to questions concerning misleading advertisements by EdTech platforms promoting 100% placement guarantees, lucrative job prospects, unauthorised institutional affiliations, fake universities, invalid degrees and unrecognised foreign collaborations. Minister of State for Education Dr. Sukanta Majumdar said the UGC has observed that several EdTech companies are advertising online and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) degree and diploma programmes in collaboration with universities and institutions recognised by the commission. He clarified that the UGC has issued a public notice stating that franchise arrangements for offering online or ODL programmes are not permitted. Degrees awarded through such unauthorised partnerships are not recognised by the UGC, and appropriate action will be taken against both defaulting EdTech firms and higher education institutions under existing laws and regulations. The commission has advised students and other stakeholders to verify the recognition or entitlement status of any online or distance education programme through the UGC Distance Education Bureau (DEB) portal before taking admission. According to the ministry, whenever the UGC receives complaints about unauthorised institutions awarding degrees, it issues notices seeking explanations. If the response is found unsatisfactory, the institution is subsequently included in the commission’s list of fake universities. To tackle such malpractice, the UGC established its Anti-Malpractice Cell (AMPC) on May 30, 1996, to address cases involving fake or unrecognised universities operating in violation of the UGC Act, 1956. The regulator also issues warning and show-cause notices, regularly publishes state-wise lists of fake universities, and conducts awareness campaigns through its website and social media channels. It has further urged state governments and Union Territories to initiate action, including filing FIRs where necessary, against fake institutions operating within their jurisdictions. The latest list includes fake institutions across Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Puducherry. Students have been urged to verify the authenticity and recognition status of higher education institutions through the official UGC website before seeking admission. Source: Indian Express

UGC flags 32 fake universities, warns students against EdTech franchise-based online degree programmes Read More »

ICAR Unveils India’s First Indigenous Vaccine Against African Swine Fever

/ Health & Wellness Community

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed India’s first homegrown vaccine to combat African swine fever (ASF), marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to protect livestock from one of the world’s most destructive pig diseases. African swine fever, caused by the African swine fever virus (ASFV), is a highly contagious viral disease that affects both domestic and wild pigs and is known for causing extremely high mortality rates. ICAR described the vaccine’s development as a major advancement in strengthening India’s animal health ecosystem. ICAR Director General M.L. Jat hailed the achievement as a landmark in veterinary science, saying it demonstrates India’s growing capability to create globally competitive animal health technologies. He added that the breakthrough would enhance disease preparedness, improve livestock health, and contribute to the country’s food and biosecurity. The vaccine has been developed by scientists at the ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (ICAR-NIHSAD), Bhopal, using a novel attenuated ASFV Genotype II strain. According to the Union Agriculture Ministry, the vaccine has successfully cleared a series of laboratory evaluations, including tests for sterility, purity, safety, genetic stability, immune response, protective efficacy, and the possibility of the virus regaining virulence. Designed for healthy pigs aged over eight weeks, the vaccine is administered as a 1 ml intramuscular injection, followed by a booster dose after 14 days. Officials believe the vaccine will play a crucial role in reducing pig mortality, limiting financial losses, and improving the livelihoods of pig farmers across the country. The Agriculture Ministry said the vaccine is expected to strengthen India’s animal health security by providing an effective preventive solution against ASF, while supporting the long-term sustainability of the pig farming industry. ASF has emerged as a major threat to the global livestock sector, with mortality rates that can reach nearly 100 per cent. Since the disease was first detected in India in 2020, it has spread across several states and Union Territories, leading to widespread pig deaths, disruptions in production, restrictions on livestock movement and trade, and severe economic hardship for farmers, particularly in the Northeastern region. In the absence of an approved vaccine or effective treatment until now, authorities have relied on rapid disease detection, culling infected animals, and enforcing strict biosecurity measures to contain outbreaks. The financial impact of ASF has been substantial. The Ministry noted that outbreaks in Assam during 2020 and 2021 resulted in estimated losses of around ₹276 crore due to pig deaths and culling. In Mizoram, the disease affected more than 11,382 households by 2025, with reported economic losses estimated at nearly ₹982 crore. Source: The Hindu  

ICAR Unveils India’s First Indigenous Vaccine Against African Swine Fever Read More »

Parliament Clears Bill to Expand Supreme Court Bench Strength to 37 Judges

/ Governance Community

Parliament has approved the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, paving the way for an increase in the sanctioned strength of Supreme Court judges from 33 to 37, excluding the Chief Justice of India. The Rajya Sabha passed the legislation after a discussion and returned it to the Lok Sabha, which had already cleared the Bill earlier this week. The legislation amends the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act, 1956 to accommodate the growing workload of the country’s highest court. Before the Bill was introduced, President Droupadi Murmu had promulgated an ordinance in May this year authorising the increase in the number of judges. Responding to the debate in the Rajya Sabha, Union Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said the expansion of the apex court’s bench reflects the government’s broader judicial reform agenda under the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas. He stated that strengthening the Supreme Court’s capacity would improve judicial efficiency and help address the increasing complexity and volume of cases before the court. The minister noted that the government has been implementing several measures to accelerate the disposal of pending cases. He said the rise in litigation, evolving constitutional issues and growing legal challenges have made it necessary to enhance the court’s judicial strength. During the discussion, Congress MP Vivek Tankha questioned the government’s decision to first issue an ordinance for the move, pointing out that nearly 95,000 cases remain pending before the Supreme Court. Supporting the legislation, BJP MP Sangeeta Yadav described it as a landmark reform that would strengthen the justice delivery system and improve access to timely justice. She observed that many cases have remained unresolved for more than a decade, making the expansion of the bench essential. Several members from different political parties backed the Bill while raising broader concerns about judicial infrastructure and vacancies. TMC MP Dr Menaka Guruswamy highlighted that nearly 30 per cent of High Court posts remain vacant. DMK MP R Girirajan said the additional judges would help reduce the Supreme Court’s mounting backlog, while BJD MP Dr Sasmit Patra emphasised the need to improve infrastructure in both the Supreme Court and High Courts. YSRCP MP S. Niranjan Reddy pointed to the increasing number of cases handled by each judge. AIADMK MP I.S. Inbadurai welcomed the move, calling it a timely reform, and urged the Centre to fill vacant judicial posts in the Madras High Court, where only 52 judges are currently serving against a sanctioned strength of 75. Shiv Sena MP Dr Jyoti N. Waghmare said the legislation would strengthen public confidence in the judiciary and contribute to faster justice delivery. Members including Rajendra Jain (NCP), Sanjay Singh (AAP), Milind Deora (Shiv Sena), Vijay Chintakayala (TDP) and Mahua Maji (JMM) also participated in the debate. Following the passage of the Bill, the Rajya Sabha proceeded with Special Mentions, during which members raised issues of public importance, before adjourning for the day. Source: News on AIR

Parliament Clears Bill to Expand Supreme Court Bench Strength to 37 Judges Read More »