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NEET & JEE Admissions May Soon Factor in 50% Board Exam Weightage Under Major Education Reform Push

India’s higher education admission system could soon witness a significant overhaul, with board examination marks potentially carrying up to 50 percent weightage in admissions currently determined primarily through competitive entrance exams such as National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and Joint Entrance Examination (JEE). According to sources, the proposed reform is aimed at reducing the immense pressure associated with single high-stakes examinations and creating a more balanced evaluation framework for students seeking admission to medical and engineering institutions. The discussions come amid growing concerns over recurring irregularities in the examination ecosystem, including paper leaks and evaluation discrepancies, which have intensified debates around the credibility and fairness of the current system. Among the key changes under consideration is the introduction of 50 percent weightage for board examination scores in final admission merit lists. In addition, authorities are reportedly looking at bringing entrance examinations closer to school curriculum frameworks to reduce students’ heavy reliance on coaching institutes. Other proposals include allowing multiple exam attempts and gradually transitioning towards adaptive, on-demand computer-based testing systems. At present, admissions to engineering and medical courses are largely dependent on entrance examination scores, with students only required to secure minimum qualifying marks in board examinations to become eligible for these competitive tests. The proposed reforms are currently being examined by a nine-member committee constituted by the Ministry of Education last year. The panel was tasked with studying issues such as the growing dependency on coaching centres, the rise of so-called dummy schools, and concerns regarding fairness and transparency in highly competitive entrance examinations. Sources indicate that the committee’s final report is expected to be submitted to the government in the coming weeks, with recommendations also focusing on better alignment between school education and national-level entrance assessments. Source: PTI

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India-Japan Partnership Enters New Era as PM Modi Highlights Strong Economic Ties, AI & Defence Cooperation

admin / Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the strength of India-Japan relations, describing the bilateral partnership as “truly special” while emphasizing its growing impact on the global economy. Speaking at the India-Japan Joint Economic Forum held in New Delhi, PM Modi highlighted that the collaboration between Japan’s technological expertise and investment capabilities, combined with India’s rapid growth and large-scale opportunities, creates significant benefits for the world economy. He noted that both nations have agreed to deepen cooperation across several strategic sectors, including artificial intelligence, economic security, defence, and healthcare, paving the way for a future-ready partnership. Addressing global economic challenges such as supply chain disruptions, trade uncertainties, and slowing international demand, PM Modi underscored India’s position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, recording a GDP growth of 7.7 percent in the previous financial year. The Prime Minister further stated that over the last twelve years, India has adopted the philosophy of Kaizen to transform its economic framework, alongside implementing next-generation reforms in taxation, governance, and ease of doing business. He added that the government continues to open new sectors for private participation while introducing incentives aimed at accelerating economic growth, reinforcing India’s position as a highly attractive destination for Japanese investments. Surveys conducted by Japan Bank for International Cooperation have consistently ranked India as the most promising destination for Japanese businesses for four consecutive years. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, in her address, highlighted energy security as a crucial pillar of India-Japan cooperation. She referenced the recent G7 Summit, where Japan proposed measures to strengthen global energy security through transparent energy trade, strategic stockpiling, and stronger collaboration between energy-producing and consuming nations. She also emphasized Japan’s commitment to implementing these goals through its Power Asia Initiative. On the occasion, both leaders jointly inaugurated the fourth vehicle manufacturing facility of Maruti Suzuki at Kharkhoda, Haryana, marking another milestone in industrial collaboration between India and Japan. Source: News on AIR

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Zee Entertainment Bags Exclusive Bundesliga Media Rights in India for Five Years

admin / Media Entertainment & Art Community

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited has significantly expanded its sports broadcasting portfolio by securing the exclusive television and digital media rights for Germany’s premier football competition, the Bundesliga, in India for the next five years. Starting from the 2026–27 season, Indian football fans will be able to watch Bundesliga matches exclusively on ZEE5 along with the company’s sports television network, Unite8 Sports channels. The agreement will provide viewers with comprehensive access to live matches, highlights, and additional football-focused programming throughout the season. The acquisition marks another major step in Zee’s growing investment in international sports broadcasting, coming shortly after its strategic partnership with FIFA. With this move, the company is aiming to strengthen its position in India’s competitive sports entertainment market while enhancing premium sports offerings for ZEE5 subscribers. Bavesh Janavlekar, Chief Business Officer of Unite8 Sports at Zee Entertainment, stated that Bundesliga remains one of the world’s most exciting football leagues, known for its passionate fan base, elite clubs, and strong focus on nurturing young talent. As part of the collaboration, Zee and Bundesliga are also expected to introduce football development initiatives in India, including grassroots programs, coaching clinics, and youth engagement activities designed to support the growth of football talent in the country. The partnership further reinforces Zee’s long-term strategy of building a stronger football ecosystem in India by bringing one of Europe’s biggest and most competitive football leagues closer to millions of Indian sports fans. Source: Economic Times

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Kerala Set to Launch PM-RAHAT Scheme, Offers ₹1.5 Lakh Cashless Treatment for Road Accident Victims

admin / Health & Wellness Community

Kerala is preparing to roll out the PM-RAHAT (Prime Minister–Road Accident Victims’ Hospitalisation and Assured Treatment) scheme, aimed at strengthening emergency healthcare access for road accident victims across the state. The announcement was made by Kerala Transport Minister C.P. John during discussions on departmental grants in the Assembly on Tuesday. Under the scheme, accident victims will be entitled to cashless medical treatment of up to ₹1.5 lakh for a maximum period of seven days from the date of the accident. The official state launch will take place at the Medical College Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram and will be inaugurated by Health Minister K. Muraleedharan. Alongside the scheme, the Transport Department is also preparing a statewide road safety awareness campaign inspired by Kerala’s literacy movement. The initiative aims to educate people from children to senior citizens, with a long-term target of reducing annual road accident fatalities from over 4,000 to nearly 1,000. The government is also planning to identify and eliminate accident-prone black spots across the state through road geometry corrections and improved traffic signage. In another relief measure, authorities are finalising a proposal to provide immediate financial assistance of ₹10,000 to families of victims involved in accidents with KSRTC buses to help cover funeral expenses while compensation claims remain pending before the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal. Kerala is further exploring green transport alternatives, with a pilot proposal under consideration to introduce hydrogen-powered buses in collaboration with KSRTC, Travancore Titanium Products Limited and Anert. The state government is simultaneously reviewing multiple infrastructure and tourism development initiatives, including expanding inland water cargo transport routes, introducing new boat connectivity services in Thiruvananthapuram, and launching a sunset cruise service on Vembanad Lake to boost tourism. Meanwhile, PWD Minister P.K. Basheer said the government is planning reforms to the PWD Manual to ensure faster execution of projects, while Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph confirmed Kerala’s participation in the parliamentary committee evaluating the ongoing Mullaperiyar dam dispute. Local Self-Governments Minister K.M. Shaji also assured that concerns regarding the Life Mission housing project would be addressed without excluding eligible beneficiaries. Source: The Hindu

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Indian Institute of Technology Bombay Partners with SBI Life Insurance to Launch AI-Driven Cyber Defence Innovation Hub for Insurance Sector

admin / Education Community

In a major step toward strengthening India’s digital security ecosystem, IIT Bombay has joined hands with SBI Life Insurance to establish the ‘Bharat AI & Cyber Innovation Hub for Insurance’, a dedicated research and innovation centre focused on advancing indigenous artificial intelligence and cybersecurity solutions for the country’s insurance industry. The initiative is designed to develop AI-powered cyber defence systems that are conceptualised, built, and owned within India, aligning with the government’s broader Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of technological self-reliance. With India’s insurance premium market expected to expand at an annual growth rate of 6.9% through 2030, ensuring stronger cyber security infrastructure and safeguarding customer data have become increasingly important priorities. The newly launched innovation hub will drive research and development across key emerging areas including artificial intelligence, cyber security, quantum technologies, and digital insurance ecosystems. Beyond technology development, the partnership will also focus on executive education programmes, talent development, innovation incubation, strategic consulting, and deeper collaboration between academia and industry stakeholders. One of the central goals of the collaboration is to create homegrown cyber defence capabilities, reducing India’s reliance on imported security technologies while enhancing the country’s preparedness against rapidly evolving digital threats in the financial services sector. The initiative will additionally help build a strong pipeline of skilled professionals in AI and cybersecurity, allowing students and researchers to engage directly with real-world industry challenges. According to IIT Bombay, the hub is expected to transform advanced research into deployable solutions while becoming a benchmark model for future partnerships between educational institutions and highly regulated industries, accelerating innovation-led growth in critical sectors. Source: Indian Express

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Rajnath Singh Highlights Economic Strength as Key Driver of India’s Defence Growth at Vibrant Gujarat Summit

admin / Governance Community

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has underscored the critical connection between economic strength and national security, stating that a strong economy is the backbone of a nation’s defence capabilities. Speaking at the valedictory session of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Vadodara, he said India’s growing industrial capacity is paving the way for greater self-reliance in the defence sector. Highlighting Gujarat’s industrial potential, Singh expressed confidence that the state is well-positioned to become a global centre for defence manufacturing, driven by its expanding footprint in sectors such as chemicals, electronics, shipbuilding, and renewable energy. He pointed to India’s remarkable progress in indigenous defence production, noting that the country’s domestic defence manufacturing output has risen sharply from ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to nearly ₹1.78 lakh crore today, reflecting the government’s continued push towards strengthening the country’s self-sufficiency in strategic sectors. Singh also highlighted Vadodara’s growing significance in India’s aerospace ecosystem, mentioning the establishment of the country’s first private-sector military aircraft manufacturing facility, where Tata Group and Airbus are jointly producing the Airbus C-295 transport aircraft — a milestone development for India’s defence manufacturing ambitions. Meanwhile, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced that agreements worth ₹3.34 lakh crore were signed during the two-day summit. These investments are expected to create over 1.97 lakh employment opportunities, providing a major boost to the region’s economic growth and industrial development in the near future. Source: News on AIR

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FIFA World Cup Sparks Surge in Late-Night Food Delivery Orders Across India

admin / Human Resource Community

India’s late-night food delivery market is witnessing a sharp rise as the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 drives demand during overnight match screenings. Industry leaders say changing lifestyles among young consumers, coupled with football fever, have significantly boosted food orders during late-night and early-morning hours. According to executives from quick-service restaurant chains, food delivery platforms, and quick commerce companies, demand for food deliveries between late night and early morning has jumped by nearly 12–15% over the past two weeks. Even before the tournament began, businesses had already recorded a steady 10–12% annual growth in late-night ordering habits. A major factor behind this trend is the shift in lifestyle patterns among younger consumers, many of whom now stay awake until 2 am or even later. McDonald’s India Chairman Sanjeev Agrawal noted that traditional dinner timings are rapidly changing, with more customers placing orders well past midnight. The company has already extended operating hours, with nearly 20% of its outlets across cities like Delhi-NCR, Lucknow, and Jaipur now functioning till 3 am, while select highway locations operate round the clock. Food delivery platform Swiggy reported that pizzas and burgers emerged as the most popular orders between 11 pm and 3 am since the tournament began. Among major cities, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai recorded the highest volume of overnight orders, while emerging cities such as Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, and Patna also showed strong demand. One customer in Chandigarh reportedly placed a late-night order worth ₹16,444. Meanwhile, Domino’s India has informed customers that several stores are now accepting orders until 3 am to cater to the increased demand. Its franchise partner, Jubilant FoodWorks, currently operates more than 2,400 outlets across the country. Packaged food brands are also benefiting from the trend. Amul Managing Director Jayen Mehta said demand during match hours is running 30–40% higher compared to normal days. Ice creams, frozen snacks, chocolates, and dairy-based products are seeing a strong uptick on quick-commerce platforms like Blinkit, BigBasket, and Zepto, especially in metro cities and southern India. However, industry experts noted that while overnight demand is rising steadily, late-night deliveries still represent a relatively smaller share compared to daytime orders. Availability also depends on local government regulations and store operating permissions. Source: Economic Times

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IAMAI Appoints JioStar Sports CEO Ishan Chatterjee as New Digital Entertainment Committee Chairman

admin / Media Entertainment & Art Community

The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has announced the appointment of Ishan Chatterjee, CEO of JioStar Sports, as the new Chairman of its Digital Entertainment Committee (DEC), succeeding Kiran Mani. Kiran Mani, who recently stepped down from his role as CEO – Digital at JioStar, is preparing to join OpenAI as Managing Director for Asia Pacific. Before stepping down, Mani had been leading IAMAI’s Digital Entertainment Committee and played a key role in shaping discussions around India’s growing digital media ecosystem. Commenting on his appointment, Ishan Chatterjee said India’s digital entertainment sector is entering a period of rapid expansion, driven by the intersection of technology, evolving consumer habits, and creative innovation. He highlighted the importance of stronger collaboration between content platforms, creators, brands, and policymakers to accelerate innovation, build consumer trust, and effectively leverage emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. He emphasized that consumers remain central to this transformation, continuously influencing how entertainment is created, distributed, and consumed. Chatterjee added that he looks forward to working closely with the industry to drive the next phase of growth and strengthen India’s position as a global leader in digital entertainment. Meanwhile, Deepit Purkayastha, co-founder and CEO of Inshorts, will continue serving as co-chair of the committee. IAMAI stated that its Digital Entertainment Committee plays a critical role in bringing together industry stakeholders to discuss policy, regulatory, and business issues impacting India’s streaming and digital media sector, while also promoting innovation and long-term industry development. Source: Economic Times

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

admin / Health & Wellness Community

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

admin / Education Community

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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