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Uttar Pradesh’s Aided Schools to Embrace Modern Education System

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The Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh has launched an ambitious project to modernize the state’s aided schools, connecting over 400 institutions to a new online platform via a mobile app. This initiative, part of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision for educational development, aims to rejuvenate the educational infrastructure and management across the state. App Development and Implementation The Uttar Pradesh Electronics Corporation Limited (UPLC) has been tasked by the Social Welfare Department to develop this app. The UPLC is in the process of selecting empanelled companies through an e-tender to create the app. The chosen agency will conduct a detailed project study based on departmental feedback and compile a System Requirements Specification (SRS). Key Features of the App The app will offer a range of features designed to streamline and enhance school management, including: Registration Modules: For students, staff, and school infrastructure. Management Information System (MIS): To streamline data management. Advanced Security Features: Including login and access controls, user role definitions, and permission settings. Scalability and Analytics: To handle large volumes of data efficiently. Hosting and Maintenance: With 16 GB RAM hosting, 1 TB storage, and annual maintenance plans. Comprehensive Database and Training The app will track essential information for over 60,000 students and provide detailed records for staff and school infrastructure. In alignment with the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) guidelines, the implementing agency will also provide a three-day official training for staff to ensure smooth operation and management. Benefits and Vision This project, spearheaded by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, promises significant improvements in the management and operational efficiency of aided schools in Uttar Pradesh. The integration of modern technology into the education system marks a critical step towards enhancing the quality of education across the state, making it more efficient and transparent.

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Pune Reports Two Cases of Zika Virus Infection

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Pune has reported its first two cases of Zika virus infection this year, involving a doctor and his teenage daughter, both residents of Erandwane. This marks the city’s initial encounter with the virus in 2024, officials confirmed on Monday. The first case involves a 46-year-old doctor associated with two major hospitals in Pune. He exhibited symptoms such as fever and rash and was treated at Mai Mangeshkar Hospital. His blood samples, sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) on June 18, confirmed Zika infection on June 20. The second case is the doctor’s 15-year-old daughter, who showed mild symptoms, including fever. Her blood samples, sent to the NIV on June 21, also tested positive for the Zika virus. She is currently receiving outpatient treatment at home. Zika virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which also spreads dengue and chikungunya. Most Zika infections are asymptomatic (up to 80%) or present with mild symptoms such as fever, rash, conjunctivitis, body ache, and joint pain. In pregnant women, Zika can cause microcephaly in the fetus. Following these detections, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) health officials and communicable disease experts visited the area. The public health team also inspected Erandwane on Monday. The infected man’s family, including his parents, wife, and daughter, are currently asymptomatic. A senior PMC doctor, speaking anonymously, stated, “Surveillance activities are being conducted in the entire Erandwane area and will continue for the next 14 days. Mosquito breeding was found in a few societies, leading to show-cause notices being issued to six housing societies. Door-to-door surveillance, insecticide spraying, and fogging are underway in the affected area. No suspected cases have been found during the surveillance so far.” Dr. Rajesh Dighe, assistant health officer of the PMC, urged citizens with fever to visit the nearest PMC hospitals for Zika virus testing. He emphasized, “The vector for Zika, dengue, and chikungunya is the same mosquito, Aedes Aegypti. In-house breeding of Aedes mosquitoes is highly possible. Citizens should keep their houses and surroundings clean, and clear stagnant water to prevent an outbreak of vector-borne diseases.”  

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Saudi Arabia Leads Middle East M&A Activity in Chemicals Sector with $500 Million Deals

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In the first quarter (Q1) of 2024, Saudi Arabia has emerged as the leader in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the Middle East’s chemicals sector, according to recent data from financial markets platform Dealogic. The Kingdom recorded $500 million worth of deals in the chemicals sector, highlighting its significant role in the region’s M&A landscape. Dealogic’s figures revealed that Saudi Arabia’s total M&A deal volume for Q1 2024 reached $955 million, with the chemicals sector accounting for a substantial 52.4 percent of this total. Notably, Saudi Arabia was the only country in the Middle East to exhibit activity in the chemicals sector during this period. A report from management consulting firm Kearney earlier this month indicated that chemical industry executives expect increased M&A activity, particularly driven by strategic investors such as national oil companies. “Recent deals by major players like Aramco and ADNOC underscore the region’s commitment to leveraging M&A as a key growth lever, setting the stage for a dynamic and transformative period ahead,” stated Jose Alberich, partner for the Middle East and Africa at Kearney. Beyond the chemicals sector, Dealogic’s data highlighted other targeted sectors in Saudi Arabia. The professional services sector was the second most targeted, with deals worth $160 million, accounting for 16.8 percent of the Kingdom’s total M&A volume. The technology sector followed closely with $138 million in deal value, capturing a 14.5 percent share. Additionally, the retail and insurance sectors represented 7 percent and 4.1 percent of the total, respectively. The broader Middle East M&A landscape saw a targeted deal volume of $6.21 billion in the first three months of the year. The technology sector led with 42 deals worth $1.56 billion, underscoring its growing prominence in the region. However, on a global scale, M&A activity experienced a significant decline during the same period. The number of transactions fell by 31 percent to 7,162, marking one of the quietest quarters for dealmakers in nearly two decades. This global slowdown was largely attributed to high capital costs, with Switzerland being the only major economy to cut interest rates in 2024.

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Who is Subodh Kumar Singh, NTA Chief Removed After NEET, NET ‘Leaks’?

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Subodh Kumar Singh, the chief of the National Testing Agency (NTA), was removed from his position on Saturday night following allegations of irregularities in the NEET-UG and UGC-NET exams. Singh has been placed on compulsory wait in the Department of Personnel and Training, while retired 1985 batch officer Pradeep Singh Karola has been appointed as the interim chief until a permanent replacement is named. Over the past two months, the NTA has faced scrutiny over alleged paper leaks and irregularities in two of India’s major competitive examinations. Subodh Kumar Singh, who has maintained a low profile throughout his career, found himself at the center of this controversy. A native of Uttar Pradesh, Singh holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee and an MBA from the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi. Before his appointment as NTA chief in June 2023, Singh served as the additional secretary in the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. Singh’s career includes nine years at the Chhattisgarh Secretariat from 2009 to 2018, where he worked under the state’s three-time BJP Chief Minister Raman Singh. He held various positions, including joint secretary, deputy secretary in personnel and general administration, special secretary, and director for personnel management. He also served as the secretary to the Chief Minister, managing director of the state’s electricity distribution department, and secretary of the mineral resources and industries and commerce department. During his tenure in Chhattisgarh, Singh was credited with significant achievements such as digitizing the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), transforming the state’s mineral sector, and improving road connectivity in Naxal-affected areas. He also played a key role in developing airports in Jagdalpur, Bilaspur, and Ambikapur, and expanding the state’s rail network. Despite being perceived as close to former Chief Minister Raman Singh, Singh was appreciated by leaders across political lines for his work. His tenure remained free from major controversies, even amidst corruption allegations against Raman Singh’s government. In recognition of his contributions, Singh received a national award in 2002 from the Ministry of Rural Development for excellence in implementing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. In 2019, he received another national award for digital transformation and transparency in mineral auctioning. Colleagues describe Singh as an “honest and straightforward” officer. A retired colleague from the CMO referred to him as “a gem of an officer and an asset to the government,” calling for a thorough inquiry into the current allegations against him.

Who is Subodh Kumar Singh, NTA Chief Removed After NEET, NET ‘Leaks’? Read More »

Haryana Increases Reservation for OBCs in Government Jobs

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In a significant move benefiting the Other Backward Classes (OBCs), the Haryana Government has announced an increase in the reservation for OBCs in government jobs and a raise in the upper income limit for the creamy layer to ₹8 lakh per year. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini made these announcements on Sunday, marking a notable shift in the state’s approach to social equity and inclusion. The reservation for backward classes has been increased from 15 percent to 27 percent in Group-A and Group-B government posts. This decision aims to provide greater opportunities and representation for OBCs in higher-level government positions. The term “creamy layer” refers to members of a backward class who are relatively advanced socially, economically, and educationally. By raising the upper income limit for this group, the Haryana Government aims to broaden the eligibility for reservations, ensuring that more individuals from OBCs can benefit from government job opportunities. Additionally, the government has committed to addressing the backlog of jobs for Backward Classes A and B on a priority basis through a special recruitment campaign. This initiative is expected to expedite the employment process and reduce the unemployment rate among these communities. In the context of the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections, Chief Minister Saini expressed confidence in his party’s prospects. He highlighted the government’s developmental works and initiatives aimed at providing employment and fostering growth in Haryana. He asserted that the BJP, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and with the support of election in-charges, is poised to win the elections and form the government for a third consecutive term. Taking a dig at the Congress party and the Hooda family, Saini criticized their approach as dynastic, contrasting it with the BJP’s focus on governance and public welfare. He emphasized the government’s commitment to the interests of the poor, farmers, and women, reiterating that the BJP is a government of the people. The Haryana Assembly elections will be held later this year, alongside elections in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Jammu and Kashmir.

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UGC-NET Exam Cancelled Amid Integrity Concerns, CBI Launches Probe

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The University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) June 2024 examination, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), has been cancelled due to concerns over its integrity. The decision was taken after the University Grants Commission (UGC) received inputs from the National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, indicating that the examination’s integrity may have been compromised. The UGC-NET examination was conducted on June 18 in two shifts across different cities in India, with over 9 lakh candidates appearing for the test. However, following the allegations of paper leaks, the Ministry of Education decided to cancel the exam to ensure transparency and maintain the sanctity of the examination process. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been handed over the case for a thorough investigation. The CBI has registered a case against unknown accused persons for compromising the integrity of the UGC-NET exam. The CBI probe aims to identify and punish those involved in the alleged malpractices. The cancellation of the UGC-NET exam has sparked controversy, with the Opposition demanding the resignation of the Education Minister and NTA officials. The Education Minister has announced the formation of a high-level committee to enhance the functioning of the NTA and ensure error-free examinations. The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, which aims to prevent leaks and malpractices in recruitment examinations, has come into effect from June 21. However, the UGC-NET examination will not be covered by this new law. The UGC-NET examination is crucial for determining the eligibility of Indian nationals for Junior Research Fellowships and Assistant Professor positions in Indian universities and colleges. The cancellation of the exam has left many students in limbo, awaiting fresh examination dates to be announced.

UGC-NET Exam Cancelled Amid Integrity Concerns, CBI Launches Probe Read More »

India vs Bangladesh, T20 World Cup 2024: Playing XI Prediction, Head-to-Head Stats, Pitch Report, and Weather Update

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After starting their Super Eight campaign with a thumping 47-run victory against Afghanistan, the Rohit Sharma-led India will take on Bangladesh in their second match of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Saturday. Bangladesh produced their best-ever showing at the T20 World Cup by winning three matches in the group stage to qualify for the Super Eights. However, the Tigers were handed a 28-run DLS defeat by Australia in their opening Super Eight fixture. They take on India next. Here’s a look at the Playing XI predictions, head-to-head stats, venue records, pitch, and weather updates ahead of the IND vs BAN match. India Predicted XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah. India Player to Watch: Virat Kohli’s form has been a concern for India in the ongoing tournament. The former India captain has mustered only 29 runs in four matches so far. Kohli, who is opening with Rohit Sharma, will be looking to get some runs under his belt against Bangladesh. Bangladesh Predicted XI: Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das (wk), Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Towhid Hridoy, Shakib Al Hasan, Mahmudullah, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman. Bangladesh Player to Watch: The underperformance of openers Litton Das and Tanzid Khan has compounded Bangladesh’s woes. Tanzid Hasan’s form is a concern since, despite striking an unbeaten 58 to help Bangladesh prevent a 3-0 whitewash against the USA late last month, he has reached double digits only twice in six innings. India vs Bangladesh Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Shakib Al Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Mustafizur Rahman, Jaker Ali, Tanvir Islam, Shoriful Islam, Soumya Sarkar. India vs Bangladesh Head-to-Head: Matches Played: 13, India Won: 12, Bangladesh Won: 1. India vs Bangladesh Pitch Report: Bangladesh’s 140 versus Australia suggests there was something in the surface, but Australia managed to score at almost nine an over in the chase. India vs Bangladesh Weather Report: According to weather.com, between 10 AM to 2 PM local time, during which the match should ideally finish, the temperature will be around 30 degrees Celsius. The weather will be mostly sunny, and there is no chance of rain. IND vs BAN Livestreaming Details: The India vs Bangladesh T20 World Cup match will be streamed on the Hotstar App and telecast on the Star Sports Network on June 22, Saturday from 8 PM IST.

India vs Bangladesh, T20 World Cup 2024: Playing XI Prediction, Head-to-Head Stats, Pitch Report, and Weather Update Read More »

India vs Afghanistan Highlights T20 World Cup 2024: Bumrah, Arshdeep Help India Beat Afghanistan by 47 Runs

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India secured a convincing 47-run victory over Afghanistan in their Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. The Indian bowling unit, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, played a crucial role in restricting Afghanistan’s batting efforts. India’s batting performance was led by Rohit Sharma, who scored 43 runs off 30 balls. The Indian captain’s innings was supported by Virat Kohli, who contributed 34 runs off 24 balls. The duo’s partnership helped India post a respectable total of 185 runs. In response, Afghanistan’s batting struggled to gain momentum. Their top-order batsmen, including Hazratullah Zazai and Usman Ghani, failed to make significant contributions. The Afghan team managed to score only 138 runs in their allotted 20 overs, ultimately falling short of the target by 47 runs. Bumrah and Arshdeep were the standout bowlers for India, taking three and two wickets respectively. The Indian duo’s impressive bowling display helped to restrict Afghanistan’s scoring and secure the win. India’s victory over Afghanistan has boosted their chances of advancing to the semifinals of the T20 World Cup 2024. The team will look to continue their winning momentum in their upcoming matches.  

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NCERT Introduces ‘Criticism of Secularism’ in Textbook: Parties Disregard Equality, Prioritise Minority

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The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has revised the Class XI political science textbook, incorporating a critical perspective on secularism in India. This new content suggests that political parties prioritize minority interests for vote bank politics, leading to “minority appeasement.” Key Changes: Previous Content: The earlier edition emphasized that there is “little evidence” suggesting vote bank politics favors minorities and stated that such politics should only be considered wrong if it results in injustice. It claimed that all political parties utilize vote banks without inherently troubling implications unless injustice is created. Revised Content: The new version states that while vote bank politics might theoretically be harmless, it distorts electoral politics by mobilizing social groups to vote en masse for specific parties, thus prioritizing short-term gains over long-term development. It highlights that competitive vote bank politics can exacerbate social divisions and portrays different groups as rivals. The revision asserts that this form of politics is associated with minority appeasement, leading to the marginalization of minority groups and preventing social reforms. Justification for Changes: The NCERT explained that the previous version failed to adequately define vote bank politics and appeared to justify it. The revised content aims to provide a relevant criticism of Indian secularism, addressing perceived anomalies in the earlier text. These revisions are part of NCERT’s ongoing efforts to update the curriculum but are separate from the broader overhaul set to be completed by the 2025-26 academic session. This ongoing process, initiated in September 2021, involves comprehensive inputs from states, constitutional bodies, and expert groups.

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ADB Approves $170 Million Loan to Strengthen Health Sector in India

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The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $170 million policy-based loan to enhance India’s readiness and capability in the health sector to address future pandemics. This funding, under the Strengthened and Measurable Actions for Resilient and Transformative Health Systems (Subprogramme 1), will support the implementation of the government’s National Health Policy 2017. The policy aims to ensure universal access to high-quality healthcare services across the country. Sonalini Khetrapal, a senior health specialist at ADB, stated, “The Covid-19 pandemic has taught us valuable lessons and the adoption of several innovative practices that would significantly strengthen pandemic preparedness and response capacities if consolidated, sustained, and institutionalised. ADB has been working with the Government of India to strengthen its health system and adopt transformative solutions.” This loan will address deficiencies in governance, legislation, and institutional structures, advancing India’s objective of achieving universal access to quality and affordable healthcare services, Khetrapal added. Work Towards Disease Surveillance Systems The programme aims to enhance disease surveillance systems to promptly address public health threats. It will establish laboratory networks for monitoring infectious diseases across states, union territories, and metropolitan areas. Additionally, it will assist in developing reliable data systems to oversee and align national health initiatives targeting disadvantaged populations such as the poor and women. “The programme will improve the governance and coordination of India’s One Health approach, its multisector response to emerging infectious diseases,” the press release stated. Efforts to Implement Policy Reforms ADB will assist in implementing policy reforms aimed at ensuring sufficient and skilled healthcare professionals. This effort includes legislation to oversee and uphold educational standards, service quality, and professional ethics among nurses, midwives, allied healthcare workers, and doctors. “The programme will help public health and health management teams deployed in some states to support public health functions and improve service delivery,” the release said. The programme aims to oversee integrated public health laboratories in five states and district critical care hospital units to enhance services for infectious diseases and critical illnesses. It will aid the intersectoral governing body and multisector task force in establishing environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient healthcare facilities. Furthermore, it will promote innovative approaches to service delivery.

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