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PM Modi Highlights Role of Digital Public Infrastructure and AI in Global Inclusive Growth

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the transformative potential of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and data-driven governance in achieving inclusive global growth. Responding to a post by WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the PM highlighted their pivotal role in reshaping lives worldwide: “Thank you for your support and valuable insights. The emphasis on Digital Public Infrastructure, AI and data for governance is key to achieving inclusive growth and transforming lives globally.” Strengthening SDGs with Technology PM Modi’s vision aligns with global initiatives like the Global Digital Compact and the Global DPI Summit 2024, which underscore the need for equitable deployment of technology. The seamless integration of DPI and AI is proving instrumental in creating jobs, enhancing healthcare and education, and reducing inequality. Technology, when inclusive and citizen-centric, unlocks new avenues for growth and strengthens faith in democratic principles. Systems built with open, interoperable, and scalable designs enable businesses of all sizes to connect efficiently, empowering families and communities while fostering economic resilience. Prioritizing Privacy and Trust PM Modi stressed the need for transparent, secure, and equitable data governance principles to protect privacy and intellectual property while ensuring trust in digital systems. Foundational and frontier AI models trained on diverse datasets were highlighted as critical for accommodating global cultural and linguistic diversity. Indian Culture Resonates Globally In a separate post, PM Modi lauded Jonas Masetti and his team for promoting Indian culture through their Sanskrit performance of the Ramayan. “It is commendable how Indian culture is making an impact all over the world. I had mentioned Jonas during a #MannKiBaat program for his passion towards Vedanta and the Gita,” the PM said. This dual emphasis on leveraging modern technology and celebrating cultural heritage underscores India’s holistic approach to sustainable, inclusive development on the global stage. Source: pmindia.Gov.in Photo Credit: pmindia.Gov.in

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Trump Nominates Linda McMahon as Education Secretary, Vows to Abolish Department

Former WWE CEO Linda McMahon has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Education, an agency he has vowed to eliminate during his upcoming term. Announcing her appointment on Tuesday, Trump described McMahon as a “fierce advocate for Parents’ Rights” and reiterated his plan to return control of education to the states. “We will send Education BACK TO THE STATES, and Linda will spearhead that effort,” Trump stated. McMahon, who served as CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment before entering politics, has a two-year tenure on the Connecticut Board of Education and 16 years as a trustee at Sacred Heart University. Her selection aligns with Trump’s agenda of reducing federal oversight in education. A longtime ally and donor to Trump, McMahon has chaired the Center for the American Worker at the America First Policy Institute since 2021. She also previously served as the head of the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first term, where she supported millions of small businesses across the country. Trump’s ties to McMahon date back to her WWE days, where they famously staged a wrestling ring altercation during a live event. McMahon, in turn, praised Trump during the Republican convention, calling him “a colleague, a boss, and a friend.” During the 2024 campaign, Trump repeatedly emphasized his intent to dismantle the Department of Education, stating that eliminating the federal agency is crucial to empowering parents and local communities. McMahon’s nomination highlights Trump’s continued reliance on business leaders to drive his administrative agenda, as he prepares to return to the White House in January. Source: NDTV Photo Credit: NDTV

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India’s Healthcare Infrastructure Witnesses Post-Pandemic Growth

India’s healthcare infrastructure has experienced remarkable growth since the pandemic, according to a report by Pharmarack. Over the past five years, the number of hospitals has surged from 43,500 in 2019 to 54,000 in 2024, with private hospitals leading the growth at 27%. This rise has contributed to an increase in hospital beds from 1.1 million to 1.3 million during the same period, with projections estimating 1.7 million beds by 2030. Medical education has also expanded significantly. The number of medical colleges has grown from 387 in 2014, offering 51,348 seats, to 706 colleges with 109,145 seats in 2024. Similarly, nursing colleges have increased from 5,700 to 8,692 over the last decade, reflecting a strong push toward building healthcare capacity. Despite these advancements, challenges remain. A staggering 70% of India’s population resides in rural areas, yet only 25% of healthcare facilities cater to these regions. However, the adoption of pandemic-driven innovations like online pharmacies, teleconsultations, and government health initiatives is gradually bridging the gap, said Sheetal Sapale, VP (Commercial) at Pharmarack. The online pharmacy sector has seen explosive growth, expanding nearly four-fold from $512 million in 2018 to $2 billion in 2024. While initially growing at 10-15% annually, the sector peaked at 60% growth during the pandemic before stabilizing at 20%. “Online pharmacies have become especially popular among chronic illness patients for their discounts and convenience,” the report noted. With partnerships for last-mile delivery and options like cash-on-delivery and e-payments, these platforms are reaching semi-urban and rural regions, driving accessibility across the country. Source: financialexpress Photo Credit: financialexpress

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ArdorComm – Education Leadership Symposium” Friday, 6th December 2024 | Chennai, Tamil Nadu

“ArdorComm – Education Leadership Symposium” – A RoundTable Meet Event Theme: Preparing Students for the Future of Work: Essential Skills for the 21st Century #ELS2024 #ELSChennai #EducationLeadershipSymposium In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, graduates must be equipped with essential 21st-century skills to thrive. As automation, artificial intelligence, and global connectivity reshape industries, the demands on higher education institutions (HEIs) are shifting. Technical expertise alone is no longer sufficient. Higher education must prioritize fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability to enable students to navigate an uncertain and dynamic future. Moreover, competencies such as communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence are indispensable for success in diverse, interdisciplinary work environments. As the digital economy expands, HEIs must also focus on digital literacy, data interpretation, and the capacity for continuous learning to prepare students for a career of lifelong adaptation and growth. Through a reimagined approach, higher education can better prepare students to remain competitive and resilient in a rapidly changing global workforce. The upcoming “ArdorComm – Education Leadership Symposium” – A RoundTable Meet on 6th December in Chennai, we are inviting senior leadership from the education fraternity to have a meaningful brainstorming session. Who Should Attend: Educators Academicians Chancellors Vice-Chancellors CEOs Directors Principals Deans KEY DISCUSSION POINTS Curriculum Integration: How can HEIs incorporate essential 21st-century skills, like critical thinking and creativity, into traditional academic programs to better prepare students for the future workforce? Digital Literacy & Technology: What role should digital literacy and emerging technologies play in higher education, and how can institutions bridge the digital divide to ensure equitable access to these tools? Balancing Technical & Soft Skills: How can higher education ensure that students develop both technical and essential soft skills, such as teamwork, emotional intelligence, and leadership, which are increasingly important for career success? Fostering Lifelong Learning: In what ways can HEIs adapt a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability to equip graduates for continuous development in response to an evolving job market? Industry-Academia Collaboration: How can partnerships between HEIs and industry stakeholders be leveraged to provide students with relevant skills, internships, and real-world experiences that enhance their employability? Eminent Speakers Agenda Time Topic 3:30 – 4:00 PM Registration & Networking Tea 4:00 – 4:15PM Welcome Note: ArdorComm Media Group LinkedIn – Keynote Address 4:15 – 6:30 PM Roundtable Discussion – Moderated by LinkedIn 6:30 – 6:45 PM LinkedIn- Presentation 6:45 – 7:30 PM Felicitation Ceremony 7:15 PM Onwards Networking Cocktails followed by Dinner Venue Novotel Chennai Chamiers Road City Centre, near Boat Club Road, &, Nandanam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600035 

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RBI Governor Urges Banks to Prioritize Governance and Ethical Practices

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das on Monday called upon private sector banks to bolster their internal governance frameworks and curb unethical practices. Speaking at the Conference of Directors of Private Sector Banks in Mumbai, Das emphasized the long-term risks of practices like mis-selling products and opening accounts without proper KYC verification. “While such practices may yield short-term gains, they ultimately expose banks to reputational damage, supervisory scrutiny, and financial penalties,” he noted, urging bank boards to lead the charge in ensuring ethical operations. Das highlighted the need for banks to carefully structure employee incentives to avoid encouraging unethical behaviors. He also pointed out that the Indian banking sector is at a juncture of both opportunities and challenges, with improving financial indicators reflecting strong efforts by bank management and boards. To maintain this momentum, the governor underscored the importance of leveraging strong fundamentals to build resilience and grow sustainably. “Good times are the best times to reinforce resilience and fortify defenses,” he remarked. The governor also touched upon emerging challenges posed by technological advancements, the rise of fintech, third-party dependencies, and climate change. He urged bank boards to act as guiding beacons in this dynamic environment, helping navigate risks while steering towards stable and sustainable growth. Das reaffirmed the RBI’s commitment to supporting the banking sector in its pursuit of innovation and resilience. He emphasized that a proactive approach to governance and ethics is crucial for fostering trust and stability in India’s rapidly evolving financial landscape. Source: CNBCTV 18 Photo Credit: CNBCTV 18

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Health Ministry Calls for Local Action Plans on Climate Change and Health

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has urged States and Union Territories to draft district and city-level action plans under the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH). The initiative aims to address the growing health challenges posed by climate change and air pollution. In a letter addressed to Chief Secretaries and Advisors of all States and Union Territories, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava emphasized the importance of including air pollution mitigation strategies in the action plans. She also called for the expansion of sentinel hospitals to monitor illnesses related to air pollution, ensuring a robust surveillance mechanism. The updated health advisories shared by the Ministry provide guidelines to strengthen existing healthcare systems and advocate for raising awareness among vulnerable populations and high-risk occupational groups. Srivastava highlighted that the combined efforts of local governments and stakeholders could effectively tackle the intertwined crises of air pollution and climate change. The NPCCHH framework encourages community participation, innovation, and capacity building to mitigate the health impacts of environmental challenges. The Ministry’s focus on air pollution reflects its acknowledgment of the urgent need to address respiratory illnesses and other health conditions exacerbated by poor air quality. This directive follows an increasing recognition of the impact of climate change on public health, including rising cases of heat-related illnesses, vector-borne diseases, and respiratory disorders. By empowering local authorities to devise actionable plans, the Ministry aims to create resilient health systems capable of addressing future challenges. With this initiative, the Ministry underscores the role of proactive governance and intersectoral collaboration in safeguarding public health amidst changing environmental conditions. Source: newsonair.gov.in Photo Credit: newsonair.gov.in

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ArdorComm – Education Leadership Symposium Friday, 29th November 2024 | New Delhi

“ArdorComm – Education Leadership Symposium” – A RoundTable Meet Event Theme: 21st Century Skills for Students: Preparing for the Workforce with Data-Driven Insights #ELS2024 #ELSDelhi #EducationLeadershipSymposium In today’s rapidly evolving workforce, the importance of equipping students with 21st-century skills is more crucial than ever. As technology and data-driven decision-making increasingly shape industries, students need to develop skills that go beyond traditional academics. These include critical thinking, adaptability, digital literacy, and problem-solving capabilities. Data-driven insights are key to understanding workforce trends, allowing educators to tailor curricula that align with future job market demands. By integrating data analytics into education, institutions can better prepare students for emerging roles, fostering a generation that is not only tech-savvy but also capable of leveraging data to make informed decisions and solve real-world challenges. This approach ensures that students are future-ready and equipped for the modern workforce. The upcoming “ArdorComm – Education Leadership Symposium” – A RoundTable Meet on 29th November in New Delhi, we are inviting senior leadership from the education fraternity to have a meaningful brainstorming session. KEY DISCUSSION POINTS How can higher education institutions leverage data-driven insights to identify and address the evolving skill gaps in the workforce? What strategies can universities implement to integrate digital literacy and data analytics into non-technical disciplines, ensuring all students are prepared for a data-driven world? How can collaborations between academia and industry be enhanced to ensure that students are gaining relevant 21st-century skills for emerging job roles? What role should higher education play in fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills alongside technical skills in a rapidly changing workforce? How can universities ensure equitable access to tools and technologies that enable students to build essential 21st-century skills, especially in data analytics and decision-making? Who Should Attend: Educators Academicians Chancellors Vice-Chancellors CEOs Directors Principals Deans Eminent Speakers AGENDA Time Topic 3:30 – 4:00 PM Registration & Networking Tea 4:00 – 4:15PM Welcome Note: ArdorComm Media Group SAS – Keynote Address 4:15 – 6:30 PM Roundtable Discussion 6:30 – 6:45 PM SAS – Presentation 6:45 – 7:30 PM Felicitation Ceremony 7:15 PM Onwards Networking Cocktails followed by Dinner Venue Holiday Inn New Delhi Int’L Airport, an IHG Hotel Asset Area 12 Hospitality District, Aerocity, New Delhi, Delhi 110037

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A Transformative Gathering of Education Visionaries at the 13th ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024

On 15th November 2024, the vibrant city of Visakhapatnam, often referred to as the Jewel of Andhra Pradesh, became the hub of groundbreaking conversations and insights as the 13th edition of the ArdorComm – New Normal Education Leadership Summit & Awards (ELSA) 2024 took place. The event attracted a distinguished gathering of thought leaders, educators, policymakers, and industry experts, all united by a shared mission to explore and shape the future of education. With the theme “Future-Forward Education: Cultivating Skills and Mindsets in the 21st Century Workplace,” the summit set the stage for transformative discussions aimed at empowering the next generation of learners and professionals. A Milestone Event for Education Excellence ArdorComm Media Group continues its legacy of facilitating impactful dialogues and recognizing excellence in education. This year’s summit lived up to its reputation, drawing over 150 higher education institutions, 75 schools, 15 EdTech startups, and 50+ eminent speakers. The event also witnessed active participation from government dignitaries, corporates, and industry experts, all united by the common goal of envisioning the future of education. The event celebrated Andhra Pradesh’s remarkable progress in education and skilling initiatives, showcasing government programs such as Mana Badi Nadu-Nedu, Jagananna Amma Vodi, and Vidya Kanuka, which have revolutionized traditional learning through digital transformation. Highlights from the Summit The 13th ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024 commenced with a warm Welcome Address by Kumar Chandan Anand, Founder, CEO & Group Editor of ArdorComm Media Group, setting an inspiring tone for the event. The inaugural session was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Sribharat Mathukumilli, Member of Parliament for Visakhapatnam Constituency and President of GITAM, as the Chief Guest, and Kathawate Mayur Ashok, IAS, Joint Collector & Additional District Magistrate of Visakhapatnam, as the Guest of Honour. Adding to the richness of the discussion were Dr. Manjula Pooja Shroff, MD and CEO of Kalorex Group, and Saba Karim, India Head, Public Sector at LinkedIn, who shared their visionary insights on transforming education to meet the demands of the 21st-century workplace. Their presence underscored the event’s significance in shaping the future of education and skills development. The Panel 1 session on “Leveraging AI and EdTech: Enhancing Student Engagement and Personalized Learning” featured an illustrious lineup of speakers, moderated by N.V.K. Prasad, Principal, Delhi Public School, Anandpuram, Visakhapatnam. The panel included prominent educators and leaders such as Ashok Varma, Managing Director, Fort City School, Vizianagram; Anuradha Batthula, Chairperson, St. Johns School, Anakapalle; Rajesh Babu Srimusuru, CEO & MD, Radiant Technologies, Narayana Co-Olympiad School, Visakhapatnam; Vanisri Malla, Principal, School of Wonder Kids, Visakhapatnam; Prof. Shalivahan, Director, Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy, Visakhapatnam; Dr. J. Sudhakar, Principal, Vignan’s Institute of Information Technology, Visakhapatnam; Roja Paul K, Principal, Meridian School Uppal, Secunderabad; and Dr. SK Chaitanya Ch, Principal, Vignan’s World One School, Visakhapatnam. Together, they brought a wealth of expertise and innovative perspectives to the discussion. The Panel 2 session on “Building Emotional Resilience: Integrating Social-Emotional Learning into the Curriculum” brought together a distinguished group of experts in education. Moderated by Dr. M.V.V. Prasada Rao, an esteemed educationist and Advisor to Schools, and Retired Director of CBSE, the panel featured thought leaders like Rev. John Vesly, Founder/Director of Hebron Mission School, Ichapuram; Rajini Chitra, Director-Academics at The Intelli School Vizag and Pollocks Schools, Visakhapatnam; Mohammad Omer, Chairman of New Era International School, Hyderabad; P Chandra Sekhara Rao, Director of Chigurupati Sri Krishnaveni School, Poranki, Vijayawada; and Dr. Archana Rai, Director-Academics at Sriveda Universe The School, Hyderabad. Together, they explored strategies to foster emotional resilience in students by incorporating social-emotional learning into educational frameworks. The Panel 3 session on “Data-Driven Decision Making: How Analytics Can Transform Educational Strategies and Outcomes” showcased a panel of accomplished leaders and innovators in education and analytics. Moderated by Anchal Chopra, Regional Head – North Academic & Government (A&G) Business at LinkedIn, the session featured influential speakers including Ln. P. Kanakaraju, Founder Chairman of ADARSA Group of Institutions and Founder Secretary of KORINGA Educational Institutes; Prof. M. Sashibhushana Rao, Joint Secretary & Director at Satya Group of Educational Institutions, Vizianagaram; Dr. Prasanta Kumar Mohanty, Vice Chancellor of Centurion University of Technology and Management, Visakhapatnam; and Imtiyaz Arshad, Chief General Manager of HR at HPCL and CEO & Secretary of the Skill Development Institute, Visakhapatnam. The panel delved into how leveraging data analytics can revolutionize educational strategies, improve decision-making, and enhance learning outcomes. The Panel 4 session on “Harnessing Digital Tools: Transforming Traditional Classrooms into Dynamic Learning Environments” featured a distinguished panel of experts dedicated to revolutionizing education through digital innovation. Moderated by Dr. Prem Das Maheshwari, Director – South Asia at D2L, the panel included esteemed speakers such as Murarji Kotipalli, Founder & Chairman of Educare Group of Institutions, East Godavari; Neeraj Deshpande, Account Director for Coursera for Campus; Dr. Nagajyothi Koripella, Pro Vice Chancellor of B.E.S.T. Innovation University, Anantapur and Dr. Ameet Chavan, Director (IIEC) at VIT-AP University, Amaravati. The session explored the integration of cutting-edge digital tools to redefine traditional teaching methods and create interactive, dynamic learning experiences for students. The Panel 5 session on “Preparing Students for Future Careers: Aligning Education with Emerging Industry Trends and Skills” brought together a distinguished panel of education leaders focused on bridging the gap between academic learning and the evolving job market. Moderated by Prof. P. M. Balaji, Joint Director at IIAM, Visakhapatnam, the panel included influential speakers such as Ramu Naidu Malla, Director of School of Wonder Kids, Visakhapatnam; Dr. Smt Eshwari Prabhakar, Principal of Visakha Valley School, Visakhapatnam and Indukuri Deepika Rani, Co Ordinator, School of Wonder Kids, Visakhapatnam. The session focused on equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to meet the demands of emerging industries and future career opportunities. The Valedictory Session of the 13th ArdorComm – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024 culminated with a Felicitation & Award Ceremony. The event was graced by Shri T. Anil Kumar, Regional Employment Officer Zone-I, Visakhapatnam, and Ch. Subbi Reddy, District Employment Officer, Visakhapatnam, both from the Department of Employment and Training, Government of

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Johns Hopkins University Explores Setting Up Campus in India: Discussions with Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan

In a significant step towards the internationalisation of education in India, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan engaged in discussions with officials from Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Maryland, USA, regarding the establishment of the university’s campus in India. The meeting, held on Sunday, also explored academic and research collaborations, including dual and joint degree programs and partnerships in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, data science, and futuristic technologies. A senior official from the Ministry of Education expressed optimism, stating, “Given the keen interest shown by the high-level delegation, the government is hopeful of a positive outcome very soon.” The delegation, led by JHU President Ronald J. Daniels, included 12 representatives—the largest from JHU to visit India. Members also included officials from the Gupta Klinsky India Institute (GKII), which focuses on fostering research, education, and policy collaborations between JHU and Indian partners. During the meeting, Minister Pradhan highlighted the transformative potential of India’s National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) in fostering global partnerships and expanding academic opportunities. JHU, consistently ranked among the top global universities for its excellence in research, medicine, and education, currently operates 10 campuses, including two international hubs in Bologna, Italy, and Nanjing, China. The proposed campus in India would represent another milestone in its mission to advance education and research on a global scale. As part of their India visit, the delegation will tour various Indian university campuses and meet with key stakeholders, including government officials and academic leaders. These engagements aim to strengthen JHU’s presence in India and contribute to India’s growing role in global higher education. Source: Times of India Photo Credit: Times of India

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Trump Announces Cabinet Picks: Robert Kennedy Jr. for Health, Doug Collins for Veterans Affairs

US President-elect Donald Trump announced a series of high-profile Cabinet nominations on Thursday, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and former Congressman Doug Collins of Georgia as Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA). Both nominations are subject to Senate confirmation. In his announcement, Trump praised Kennedy, a former Democratic presidential candidate, for his commitment to addressing public health crises caused by industrial food, pharmaceutical companies, and harmful environmental factors. “Kennedy will restore these agencies to gold-standard scientific research and transparency, tackling the chronic disease epidemic to Make America Great and Healthy Again!” Trump stated. Doug Collins, a veteran and current chaplain in the US Air Force Reserve Command, was nominated to lead the VA. Trump highlighted Collins’ military service and dedication to veterans, calling him “a great advocate for our active duty service members, veterans, and their families.” Additionally, Trump announced Jay Clayton as US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, citing Clayton’s extensive experience in law, business, and public service, including his tenure as Chair of the SEC. Todd Blanche, recognized for his prosecutorial excellence, was named Deputy Attorney General, tasked with reforming the Justice Department. Dean John Sauer was chosen as Solicitor General, noted for his legal expertise and role in securing a landmark Supreme Court victory for Trump. Sauer, a Rhodes Scholar and Harvard Law graduate, was described as a “masterful appellate attorney” who will champion the administration’s judicial initiatives. Trump expressed confidence in his team’s ability to address national challenges and support the MAGA vision, emphasizing their qualifications and dedication to public service. These appointments signal the administration’s focus on health reform, justice system overhaul, and veterans’ welfare in Trump’s second term. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit: Business Standard

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