ArdorComm Media Group

Contact Us
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 9:33 AM
logo
Menu
logo

Author name: admin

Pradhan discusses expansion of Indian schools in UAE, inaugurates Atal Incubation Centre at IIT Delhi-Abu Dhabi

Leave a Comment / / Education Community
ardorcomm news

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, during his two-day official visit to the United Arab Emirates, met Sara Musallam, Chairperson of the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge. The discussions centred on strengthening educational collaboration between the two countries, including the establishment of more Indian curriculum-based schools in the UAE to cater to the growing Indian community. Pradhan also visited the Abu Dhabi campus of IIT Delhi, where he inaugurated the Atal Incubation Centre (AIC)—the first such facility hosted by an Indian institution abroad. The AIC is envisioned to nurture joint start-ups and research-led enterprises involving innovators from both India and the UAE, with a focus on deep tech, artificial intelligence, clean energy, healthcare, and other areas of mutual interest. It will also provide Indian start-ups with a gateway to Middle Eastern markets. Highlighting the legacy of IIT Delhi, Pradhan noted that the Abu Dhabi campus has grown remarkably from a concept into a full-fledged institution, symbolising the India-UAE knowledge partnership. He also launched B.Tech and Ph.D programmes in Chemical Engineering and Energy & Sustainability at the campus, expressing confidence in the students’ potential to set new benchmarks in global innovation and prosperity. Pradhan shared insights on the success of Atal Tinkering Labs in India and discussed the possibility of introducing Atal Innovation Labs in Indian schools across the UAE. The talks also explored opportunities for two-way student exchanges starting from the school level, further strengthening academic and cultural ties. As part of his UAE visit, the minister is scheduled to inaugurate the Dubai campus of IIM Ahmedabad and hold meetings with leaders, policymakers, academicians, and institutional representatives from both nations to broaden cooperation in education, innovation, and skill development. Source: PTI Image Credit: x.com/iitdelhi

Pradhan discusses expansion of Indian schools in UAE, inaugurates Atal Incubation Centre at IIT Delhi-Abu Dhabi Read More »

India’s Economy Holds Steady Despite Global Trade Pressures: SBI Capital Report

Leave a Comment / / Governance Community
ardorcomm news

India’s economy continues to demonstrate robust resilience amid global trade headwinds and fiscal strains, supported by strong domestic demand and government expenditure, according to a new report by SBI Capital Markets. The study highlighted that while protectionist tariff policies — particularly from the United States — have become a major global challenge, India managed to remain relatively shielded in the first quarter, achieving an impressive GDP growth of 7.8%. The report pointed to ongoing structural reforms as a key factor driving momentum. A streamlined Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework is expected to inject around ₹50,000 crore into the economy, further boosting consumption. However, Indian exporters are increasingly under strain due to retaliatory tariffs from trade partners, with some duties reaching 50%. Notably, a 25% levy linked to Russian crude purchases has heightened cost pressures and disrupted trade flows. On the currency front, despite a softer U.S. dollar, the Indian rupee depreciated nearly 5% year-on-year, hitting record lows. The Reserve Bank of India has limited its interventions, opting instead to allow the weaker currency to support exports while conserving forex reserves. Externally, while capital inflows remain tepid, the current account deficit is viewed as manageable despite sluggish merchandise exports. The analysis also contrasted India’s fiscal situation with that of advanced economies. Rising debt burdens in countries such as the U.S. and U.K. are steepening bond yield curves, while in India, higher state government borrowing continues to exert pressure on long-term yields. Adding to the global backdrop, weaker U.S. employment data has heightened expectations of an imminent Federal Reserve rate cut in its upcoming policy review, the report noted. Source: IANS Photo Credit: iStock  

India’s Economy Holds Steady Despite Global Trade Pressures: SBI Capital Report Read More »

Extreme Heat Could Put 2026 World Cup at Risk, Warns Report

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community
ardorcomm news

A new study has raised serious concerns about the impact of climate change on the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, warning that extreme weather conditions could pose unprecedented challenges for players, fans, and organisers. The report, “Pitches in Peril” — compiled by Football for the Future, Common Goal, and Jupiter Intelligence — reveals that 10 out of the 16 host venues are at very high risk of extreme heat stress during the tournament. By 2050, nearly 90% of these stadiums will require significant adaptation to cope with soaring temperatures, while a third could face severe water shortages. Researchers also extended their analysis to future World Cup sites in 2030 and 2034, while drawing attention to grassroots football pitches worldwide, including those once used by global stars like Juan Mata, Mo Salah, and William Troost-Ekong. Mata, reflecting on Spain’s devastating floods in Valencia last year, said: “Football has always united people, but now it also reminds us of what we stand to lose.” Recent competitions already highlight the risks. At this year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S., players described conditions as unbearable, with extreme heat and storms forcing FIFA to implement emergency measures such as shaded benches, misting fans, and additional cooling breaks. According to the study, 14 of the 16 stadiums across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico already exceed safe-play thresholds for multiple hazards — including extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and flooding. Thirteen stadiums experience summer days breaching FIFA’s drinks-break benchmark of 32°C Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), while cities like Dallas and Houston endure WBGT readings of 35°C or higher for weeks at a stretch — a level scientists deem the upper limit of human adaptability. Though some venues, like those in Dallas and Houston, will rely on stadium roofs to mitigate heat, experts stress that climate risks extend far beyond elite facilities. For instance, Mo Salah’s childhood pitch in Egypt could see over a month of unplayable conditions annually, while Troost-Ekong’s hometown ground in Nigeria may face nearly year-round extreme heat by mid-century. Piers Forster, director of the Priestley Centre for Climate Futures, cautioned: “Without drastic measures, like moving major tournaments to cooler months or regions, the risks will only escalate.” The 96-page report calls on the football industry to commit to net-zero emissions by 2040, publish robust decarbonisation strategies, and establish adaptation funds. It also highlights that 91% of fans surveyed across the host nations want the 2026 edition — the biggest in World Cup history — to serve as a benchmark for sustainability. Yet, despite those hopes, another analysis by Scientists for Global Responsibility, the Environmental Defense Fund, and the Sport for Climate Action Network warns that the 2026 tournament, with 48 nations and 104 matches across three countries, is on track to become the most climate-damaging World Cup ever. Source: Reuters

Extreme Heat Could Put 2026 World Cup at Risk, Warns Report Read More »

Russia Declares Cancer Vaccine ‘Enteromix’ Ready for Clinical Use; To Be Provided Free for Patients

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community
ardorcomm news

Russia has announced that its personalised cancer vaccine, Enteromix, developed using advanced mRNA technology, is now ready for clinical application following successful early trials. The vaccine, created by the National Medical Research Radiology Centre in collaboration with the Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, was unveiled at the 10th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September 2025, attracting global interest from 8,400 delegates representing 75 countries. Personalised Immunotherapy Unlike chemotherapy and radiation, which damage healthy cells alongside cancerous ones, Enteromix works by training the body’s immune system to recognise and destroy tumors. Each dose is tailored to a patient’s RNA profile, ensuring a highly individualised treatment with fewer side effects. The vaccine uses four harmless viral vectors to trigger immune responses that shrink tumors, slow their spread, and extend life expectancy. Clinical Trial Results In early-stage clinical trials involving 48 patients, Enteromix demonstrated strong results: Tumor sizes reduced by 60–80%. Tumor growth halted and in some cases reversed. Improved overall survival rates. No severe side effects reported. Effectiveness maintained across multiple doses. The initial version of Enteromix targets colorectal cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Further versions for glioblastoma (brain cancer) and melanoma are also under development. Accessibility and Global Impact Russia’s Federal Medical and Biological Agency (FMBA), led by Veronika Skvortsova, confirmed that once regulatory approvals are secured, the vaccine will be distributed free of cost to patients, making advanced cancer therapy more accessible across all social groups. Enteromix is part of a growing global race to develop cancer vaccines using mRNA technology. Companies like BioNTech and Moderna are advancing similar personalised vaccines for pancreatic, lung, and skin cancers, while the UK’s Cancer Vaccine Launch Pad and India’s work on breast, oral, and cervical cancer vaccines show worldwide momentum in this field. Russia, however, is among the first to declare clinical readiness. Next Steps Despite promising results, Enteromix must undergo Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials involving larger patient groups to confirm its safety and effectiveness before widespread use. Approval from Russia’s Ministry of Health and international health agencies will be critical for its rollout. If successful, Enteromix could become one of the first personalised mRNA cancer vaccines available to the public, offering a major breakthrough in global oncology treatment. Source: TOI Photo Credit: @SputnikInt/X   

Russia Declares Cancer Vaccine ‘Enteromix’ Ready for Clinical Use; To Be Provided Free for Patients Read More »

India’s Literacy Rate Rises to 80.9% in 2023–24: Pradhan

Leave a Comment / / Education Community
ardorcomm news

India’s literacy rate has increased from 74% in 2011 to 80.9% in 2023–24, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said on Monday during a virtual address on International Literacy Day 2025. Pradhan stressed that literacy is more than reading and writing, describing it as a path to dignity, empowerment, and self-reliance. He underlined that true progress would be achieved only when literacy becomes a lived reality for every citizen. Highlighting the government’s ULLAS–Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, the minister said over 3 crore learners and 42 lakh volunteers have joined the initiative. Around 1.83 crore learners have already taken foundational literacy and numeracy assessments, with a 90% success rate. The programme now offers study material in 26 Indian languages. Pradhan congratulated Ladakh, Mizoram, Goa, Tripura, and Himachal Pradesh for achieving full literacy, terming it a collective success of governments, society, and volunteers. Ladakh became the first Union Territory to be declared fully literate in June 2024, while Himachal Pradesh recently joined the list of fully literate states. The theme for this year’s International Literacy Day was “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.” Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary noted that literacy in India has expanded to include digital literacy, crediting India’s digital public infrastructure for accelerating educational inclusion. “India has accomplished in a decade what could have taken fifty years, setting an example for the Global South,” Chaudhary said. Source: PTI

India’s Literacy Rate Rises to 80.9% in 2023–24: Pradhan Read More »

Dish TV Targets 25% Revenue from Non-DTH Business, Launches VZY Smart TV Range

Leave a Comment / / Media Entertainment & Art Community
ardorcomm news

Dish TV India is reshaping its business model with a strong push beyond traditional direct-to-home (DTH) services. The company expects 25% of its revenue to come from non-DTH businesses within the next 18–24 months, according to CEO and Executive Director Manoj Dobhal. Marking a bold step into the smart TV market, Dish TV has introduced its VZY (Vibe, Zone & You) series, an integrated entertainment solution that combines DTH, OTT platforms, and live TV in a single device. The VZY range currently offers seven models, from 32-inch HD to 55-inch 4K UHD QLED, priced between ₹12,000 and ₹45,000. Dish TV has already ventured into digital platforms with its OTT service Watcho (launched in 2019) and the quick-commerce platform Shopzop (launched in August 2025, now offering 4,000+ products). These, along with future innovations, are expected to strengthen its non-DTH revenue streams. “Dish TV will no longer be seen only as a DTH brand. In two years, we want to be recognized as a complete content ecosystem player, spanning devices, streaming, and linear TV,” Dobhal said at the VZY launch. In FY25, Dish TV posted revenue of ₹1,567.6 crore, down from ₹1,856.5 crore in FY24, largely due to declining Pay TV subscribers and stagnant ARPU. The company sees its new product strategy as a pivot to regain growth momentum. Unlike other smart TV makers, Dobhal emphasized that VZY’s integrated model is “unique,” eliminating the need for additional set-top boxes or separate OTT subscriptions. Currently powered by Google TV, Dish TV also plans to roll out its own operating system within the next two years. The VZY range will be available nationwide through retail outlets and e-commerce platforms, with the company encouraged by strong initial demand. Source: PTI

Dish TV Targets 25% Revenue from Non-DTH Business, Launches VZY Smart TV Range Read More »

Unilever to Overhaul Senior Leadership Roles Amid Global Revamp

Leave a Comment / / Human Resource Community
ardorcomm news

Unilever has announced plans to review its top 200 leadership positions, with around 25% set for a “refresh,” as part of its ongoing turnaround strategy. The move comes alongside broader restructuring measures, including cutting 7,500 jobs worldwide, aimed at tackling underperformance and improving profitability. The consumer goods major, best known for brands like Dove, has been accelerating changes under its new CEO Fernando Fernandez, who stepped in earlier this year after the exit of Hein Schumacher. Fernandez is pushing forward with transformation initiatives to enhance efficiency and strengthen margins. Speaking at the Barclays Global Consumer Staples Conference, Unilever reiterated its 2025 financial guidance, projecting sales growth of 3–5% and maintaining an underlying operating margin above 18.9%. Source: Reuters

Unilever to Overhaul Senior Leadership Roles Amid Global Revamp Read More »

West Bengal SSC Recruitment Exam Sees Massive Turnout of 3.19 Lakh Candidates

Leave a Comment / / Education Community
ardorcomm news

West Bengal witnessed a huge response on Sunday as over 3.19 lakh aspirants appeared for the School Level Selection Test (SLST) conducted by the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC). The test, meant for the recruitment of assistant teachers for classes 9 and 10, was held across 636 examination centres under tight security arrangements. This marked the first major teacher recruitment drive by the WBSSC since the Supreme Court, earlier in April, cancelled 26,000 appointments made in 2016, declaring the process “tainted and vitiated.” The exam began at 12 pm and continued till 1:30 pm, with an additional 20 minutes provided for specially-abled candidates. To maintain strict vigilance, candidates had to report by 10 am. Barcode scanning of admit cards, frisking at multiple checkpoints, and a ban on all electronic devices were part of the three-tier security plan. Even officials and supervisors were prohibited from carrying mobile phones inside examination halls. Only pens, supplied at the centres, were allowed. In a first-ever transparency initiative, candidates were permitted to take home both the question paper and a carbon copy of their OMR sheets, ensuring greater accountability in the evaluation process. While many first-time test-takers described the paper as “simple,” some felt better preparation could have improved their chances. For many of those whose jobs were cancelled following the SC verdict, the exam carried emotional weight. Several expressed distress at having to reappear after years of teaching, with one 55-year-old former teacher breaking down at the exam gate, lamenting the difficulty of preparing again after seven years in service. Candidates from other states, including Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, also took part in the test. This sparked political sparring — with Trinamool Congress (TMC) spokesperson Kunal Ghosh pointing out that job-seekers from BJP-ruled states had to come to Bengal due to unreliable recruitment processes in their regions. He stressed that Bengal never barred outsiders from applying. Meanwhile, BJP leader Sajal Ghosh countered that mobility across states was normal, while CPI(M)’s Shatarup Ghosh alleged that the ruling party might exploit this for “cut money.” State Education Minister Bratya Basu assured candidates that the administration was working to guarantee fairness, transparency, and safety during the recruitment drive. Metro Railways also extended services on both the Blue and Green lines from 9 am to aid travel for examinees. WBSSC Chairman Siddhartha Majumdar confirmed that another 2.46 lakh aspirants are scheduled to appear for the recruitment test for assistant teachers of classes 11 and 12 on September 14 at 478 centres. Importantly, the commission clarified that 1,806 teachers identified as “tainted” in the 2016 scam were barred from participating. Source: Indian Express  

West Bengal SSC Recruitment Exam Sees Massive Turnout of 3.19 Lakh Candidates Read More »

1948 degrees awarded during the 23rd Convocation of NIT Rourkela

Leave a Comment / / Press Release

Watch live event on – NIT Rourkela 23rd Convocation – https://youtu.be/D8O8rcjHW6E Shri Brijendra Pratap Singh, Chairman-cum-Managing Director National Aluminum Company Ltd. (NALCO), graced the event as the Chief Guest ROURKELA, 6th September 2025: National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela) celebrated its 23rd Convocation with a graduating class of 1948 students (471 female & 1,477 male) today, 6th September 2025. Shri Brijendra Pratap Singh, Chairman-cum-Managing Director National Aluminum Company Ltd. (NALCO), graced the event as the Chief Guest. Shri S. N. Subrahmanyan, Chairman, Board of Governors, NIT Rourkela, addressed the gathering, and Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao, Director, NIT Rourkela, presented the Director’s report. Speaking during the event, Shri Brijendra Pratap Singh, Chief Guest, NIT Rourkela 23rd Convocation, said, “Congratulations to all the graduating students! Your dedication and hard work has paid you. My deepest compliments to all the faculty and the management for guiding you all and my deepest appreciation again for parents for providing continuous support to their wards. Congratulations to management, students and everyone for NITR being ranked 13th and 2nd best NIT in the country. Students you are graduating in one of the most fortunate times. 7-8% of the economic growth, one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Now, India is the third largest economy so this is the best time when you are graduating and India aspiring to become Vikshit Bharat by 2047. Among the four pillars of Vikshit Bharat, the first and most important pillar is youth. India will require young entrepreneurs, engineers, scientists, administrators, doctors and everyone to become a developed India. You all will have ample opportunities, so live in India, support India and see India become a developed nation by 2047.” To honour academic excellence, the Institute awarded 09 Institute Gold Medals, 07 Endowment Gold Medals, 09 Endowment Awards, to branch toppers of the graduating batch of the year 2025.   Degrees awarded were: COURSE GRADUATING STUDENTS Bachelor of Technology 1044 (205 female and 839 male) Bachelor of Architecture 19 (04 female and 15 male) B.Tech. – M.Tech. Dual Degree 44 (01 female and 43 male) Integrated Master of Science (5 years) 65 (08 female and 57 male) Master of Science 170 (69 female and 101 male) Master of Arts 25 (16 female and 09 male) Master of Business Administration 66 (36 female and 30 male) Master of Technology 422 (99 female and 323 male) Doctor of Philosophy 93 (33 female and 60 male) Total – 1948   During his address, Shri S. N. Subrahmanyan, Chairman, Board of Governors, NIT Rourkela, said, “The most pertinent fact is that the institute has been ranked 13th on the NIRF 2025 List. Thanks to Prof. Rao and his entire team. In this competitive world, competing with top institutes both public and private, including IITs and to be ranked 13th is not just easy. It is also good to see that in a few categories NITR is ranked within 10 and including sustainability that is distinguishable and credit worthy. I heard from Prof. Rao that 90% of you have got placed. It is fantastic and credit worthy. This shows that the economy is doing well, plenty of jobs are available and companies are growing.”  Addressing the graduating class,  he further said, “Convocation is not about receiving degrees, it is also honoring the path that you walked. It is the challenges you have overcome as a student and the future you shape. Carry the spirit of NIT Rourkela and walk the world with humility. It is important to be down to earth. The best way to predict a future is to create it, so go out there shape it with purpose and make both yourself and NIT Rourkela proud.” Another key highlight of this year’s convocation was the graduation of 81 international students from various academic programs. Among these 63 are male and 18 female students. This includes one each from Afghanistan, South Africa and Sudan, 20 from Bangladesh, three from Bhutan, 32 from Nepal, and four from the USA, along with 19 Non-Resident Indian (NRI) students from India. Additionally, NIT Rourkela advanced to 13th position in NIRF Ranking 2025 (Engineering Category) and ranked second among other NITs. Congratulating the graduating students, Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao, Director, NIT Rourkela, said, “Today is a moment of immense pride as we celebrate the achievements of our graduating class. Your time at NIT Rourkela has not only equipped you with knowledge and technical expertise but also taught you valuable life lessons, preparing you for the challenges ahead. Each of you possesses unique qualities and a vital role to play in the world. My advice to you is to stay determined, resilient, focused, and disciplined while continuing to learn and grow as you work towards achieving your goals.” Prof. Rao further said, “NIT Rourkela position in NIRF 2025 Rankings is an extraordinary leap achieved through the collective dedication of our faculty, researchers, students and staff. We are equally delighted with our continued excellence in being the top-ranked engineering institute in Odisha and in the Architecture and Planning category we have been ranked 7th nationally. The institute is also the top-ranked institution among NITs in the ‘Research’ category, reflecting its diverse strengths and significant position in the national and state landscape. With over 420 faculty, 320 staff, 35,000 alumni and 7,800 students dedicated efforts, the Institute has received global recognition.” With Bachelor of Technology degrees in 15 disciplines across 12 departments, Bachelor of Architecture by the Department of Planning and Architecture; MBA; MTech. degrees in 31 specializations under 13 departments, MTech dual degree programs in 4 domains across 4 departments, Integrated Master programs in various Science & Arts streams, NIT Rourkela has a long-cherished contribution to the Nation in various fronts. This time, NIT Rourkela advanced the 2024-2025 convocation to September 2025, and this aims to support graduating students, especially international students, by facilitating the timely collection of their original degrees, eliminating the need to revisit for the same. This is also intended to alleviate difficulties students often encounter with provisional

1948 degrees awarded during the 23rd Convocation of NIT Rourkela Read More »

The Changing Face of Health: Why Prevention Matters More Than Cure

Leave a Comment / / Article/Stories

Health is no longer just about curing illnesses — it is about building resilience, balance, and longevity. In an age where medical technology is advancing rapidly, one truth stands out: most health challenges of today can be prevented through timely lifestyle choices. From Reactive to Proactive Healthcare Traditionally, healthcare systems have been reactive, stepping in only after illness occurs. But the global rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) — such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disorders, and cancers — is changing that mindset. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs account for over 70% of global deaths each year, many of which are linked to modifiable factors like poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and stress. Preventive healthcare focuses on early detection, timely intervention, and healthy living habits. Regular health check-ups, vaccinations, screenings, and wellness programs can significantly reduce the burden of disease, not just on individuals but also on healthcare systems. The Mind-Body Connection Health is multidimensional. Beyond physical well-being, mental health is increasingly recognized as a key factor. Stress, depression, and anxiety often manifest in the body as fatigue, poor immunity, or even chronic illness. For example, long-term stress can contribute to hypertension and heart disease. To counter this, practices like yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness are gaining popularity worldwide. Social support systems — family, friends, and community engagement — also play a powerful role in maintaining mental wellness. Nutrition and Lifestyle: The Foundation of Good Health The saying “we are what we eat” has never been truer. Diets rich in whole foods, fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats are proven to reduce the risk of lifestyle-related conditions. On the other hand, excessive consumption of processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats is directly linked to obesity and metabolic disorders. Equally important is physical activity. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, which could be as simple as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Combined with quality sleep and adequate hydration, these habits form the foundation of long-term health. Technology: A Game-Changer in Healthcare Digital health tools are reshaping the way people monitor and manage their well-being. Wearable devices can track heart rate, sleep quality, and physical activity, while telemedicine platforms make healthcare accessible from home. Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to detect early signs of diseases through scans and lab data, helping doctors make faster and more accurate diagnoses. This patient-centric approach empowers individuals to take control of their health, reducing dependency on hospitals for routine care. Community and Policy Initiatives Health is not just personal — it is social. Governments, workplaces, and schools are increasingly adopting wellness programs, from fitness incentives to mental health counseling. Public awareness campaigns on vaccination, hygiene, and balanced diets continue to play a pivotal role in improving community health standards. Policies that encourage pollution control, clean water, urban green spaces, and accessible healthcare facilities further strengthen the foundation of healthier societies. Building a Healthier Future The future of healthcare lies in a holistic model — where physical, mental, social, and environmental health are interconnected. Instead of waiting for illness to strike, people and systems must embrace prevention as the core of well-being. By making conscious choices — nutritious eating, regular exercise, stress management, technology-driven monitoring, and preventive check-ups — individuals can not only add years to life but also life to years. As the adage goes, “Health is wealth.” In the 21st century, that wealth depends on how well we balance innovation, awareness, and proactive living.

The Changing Face of Health: Why Prevention Matters More Than Cure Read More »