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Delhi Government Reopens SCERT-Led Online Training Programmes for Teachers

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The Delhi government has relaunched a series of structured online professional development programmes for teachers in government as well as private schools for the ongoing academic year. The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has announced the fresh rollout of NISHTHA (National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement) courses, along with General Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and short-duration nano courses. These programmes are open to teachers, school leaders and teacher educators from government, aided, unaided and private institutions across the capital. As part of the NISHTHA initiative, training modules will focus on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) and Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). The courses will be offered in English, Hindi and Urdu, and are designed to enhance teaching practices at the foundational level in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP). SCERT stated that the General CPD courses will address a broad spectrum of contemporary and emerging themes, including cyber hygiene, online safety, cyber crime awareness, digital well-being, inclusive education, techno-pedagogy, media literacy, financial security, data privacy, environmental issues such as e-waste, action research methodologies and the use of open educational resources. In addition, nano courses focusing on cyberspace safety and related topics will also be available. Teachers can register for all programmes through the DIKSHA portal, where course content is hosted in digital format. The DIKSHA platform offers a mix of video-based lessons, reading material and assessments, enabling educators to complete the training at their own pace within the stipulated timeframe. SCERT has informed that enrolment for all courses will remain open until March 10, 2026, while participants must complete the courses by March 15, 2026. Teachers and school heads have been advised to follow the schedule strictly, as course links will become inactive after the deadline. The initiative aims to enhance professional competencies among educators and ensure wider access to updated pedagogical and digital skills across Delhi’s school education ecosystem. Source: PTI

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Bhutan and Morocco Seek India’s Nod for Offshore IIT Campuses

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Bhutan and Morocco have approached the Union government to explore the establishment of offshore campuses of India’s premier Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), signalling growing global interest in India’s higher education ecosystem. At present, IITs operate two overseas campuses—IIT Madras in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and IIT Delhi in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Sources indicated that multiple countries have expressed interest in hosting IIT campuses, with Bhutan and Morocco among the latest to formally reach out. A third overseas IIT campus is also proposed in West Africa, to be hosted by the Federal Government Academy in Suleja. To streamline the expansion of IITs abroad, the central government had constituted a 17-member committee, chaired by IIT Council Standing Committee Chairperson Dr K Radhakrishnan. The committee submitted its recommendations in 2022, laying the groundwork for international campuses. IIT Madras became the first IIT to set up an overseas campus in 2023, launching operations in Zanzibar under Director-in-Charge Preeti Aghalyam, who also made history as the first woman Director of an IIT. The campus began functioning from a temporary facility in November 2023. Following this, IIT Delhi signed an agreement with the UAE government to establish a campus in Abu Dhabi. Located in Khalifa City, the IIT Delhi–Abu Dhabi campus was officially inaugurated on September 2, 2024. Expanding India’s global academic footprint further, IIM Ahmedabad has also recently inaugurated its first international campus at Dubai International Academic City. Source: PTI

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Mandatory Labelling of AI-Generated Content Likely Soon After Industry Consultations: IT Secretary

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The government is set to notify new rules on mandatory labelling of AI-generated content after completing extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, IT Secretary S Krishnan has said. Speaking to PTI, Krishnan noted that the industry has largely shown a responsible approach and has not strongly opposed the proposed move, recognising the rationale behind content labelling. According to him, most industry feedback has focused on seeking clarity around what degree of AI intervention should trigger labelling—particularly the distinction between substantive, material changes made using AI and routine technical enhancements that do not alter meaning or facts. Inputs received are currently being reviewed in consultation with other government ministries, and the final rules are expected to be announced shortly. Krishnan emphasised that the proposal does not impose restrictions or require registration with third parties, but simply asks platforms to clearly label AI-generated or synthetically modified content. He underlined that citizens have a fundamental right to know whether content is authentic or AI-generated. He explained that even minimal AI-driven changes—such as altering a few words—can significantly change context and meaning, whereas routine enhancements like camera optimisation on smartphones may only improve quality without affecting substance. While the government is open to accommodating reasonable industry concerns, excluding all forms of modification could be problematic, as even small AI edits can have major real-world impacts. The proposed amendments to the IT Rules, first floated in October, aim to curb the spread of deepfakes and misinformation by requiring platforms such as Facebook and YouTube to take greater responsibility for identifying and flagging synthetic content. The draft rules seek mandatory labelling, metadata embedding, and visibility markers for AI-generated or modified media, including visual identifiers covering at least 10 per cent of the screen or the initial 10 per cent of an audio clip. The IT Ministry has warned that deepfake audio, video, and other synthetic media can be weaponised to mislead the public, harm reputations, influence elections, and facilitate fraud, making clear labelling and accountability essential in the age of generative AI. Source: PTI

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WHO Report Finds Less Than 5% of Disease-Focused Genomic Studies Conducted in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

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A recent global analysis by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed a sharp imbalance in disease-focused genomic research, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) accounting for less than five per cent of such studies worldwide. According to the WHO, more than 6,500 genomic clinical studies were registered globally between 1990 and 2024 through its International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. The number of studies rose sharply after 2010, driven by rapid advancements in genome sequencing technologies, reduced costs, and expanding clinical applications. Despite this growth, over 80 per cent of genomic research remains concentrated in high-income countries. China emerged as the leading country in terms of the total number of registered genomic clinical studies over the past three decades, followed by the United States and Italy. India ranked among the top 20 countries globally. However, the report noted that LMICs are rarely in leadership roles within such research. India participated in 235 studies, while Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria featured in 38, 17, and 14 studies respectively—mostly as part of multi-country collaborations rather than as lead partners. The analysis, titled “Human genomics technologies in clinical studies: the research landscape,” highlighted that cancer, rare diseases, and metabolic disorders together account for more than 75 per cent of all genomic studies globally. While these areas were early adopters of genomic approaches, the report flagged a major gap in research on infectious diseases. Communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria represented just three per cent of all genomic studies, despite their significant contribution to the global disease burden—particularly in low-resource settings. The authors described this as a missed opportunity to use genomics to better understand disease susceptibility, treatment response, and host–pathogen interactions. The WHO study also pointed to demographic gaps in genomic research. Over three-quarters of studies focused on adults aged 18 to 64, while only 4.6 per cent targeted children and just 3.3 per cent involved older adults. Calling for urgent action, the WHO urged more inclusive, geographically balanced, and locally relevant genomic research. Recommendations included greater investment in genomic infrastructure and research capacity in underrepresented regions, stronger leadership from LMIC-based institutions, better alignment of research priorities with local disease burdens, and increased inclusion of children, older adults, and other underrepresented populations. Source: PTI

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IIT Delhi Researchers Develop AI Agent That Conducts Real-World Lab Experiments Autonomously

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Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, in collaboration with scientists from Denmark and Germany, have developed an artificial intelligence system capable of independently performing real-world laboratory experiments—much like a human researcher. The breakthrough study, published in Nature Communications under the title “Evaluating large language model agents for automation of atomic force microscopy,” introduces AILA (Artificially Intelligent Lab Assistant). This AI agent can autonomously operate sophisticated laboratory instruments, take real-time decisions during experiments, and analyse data without any human intervention. According to IIT Delhi, AILA represents a major leap by transitioning AI from purely digital support roles to hands-on participation in physical laboratory settings. The system has been specifically trained to handle an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM)—a precision instrument used to examine materials at the nanoscale. Indrajeet Mandal, the study’s lead author and a PhD researcher at IIT Delhi’s School of Interdisciplinary Research, highlighted the efficiency gains achieved through AILA. Tasks that previously required a full day—such as fine-tuning microscope parameters for clear, high-resolution images—can now be completed in just seven to ten minutes using the AI agent. The research was supervised by Prof. N. M. Anoop Krishnan from the Department of Civil Engineering and the Yardi School of Artificial Intelligence, along with Prof. Nitya Nand Gosvami from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at IIT Delhi. The international research team also included scientists from Aalborg University in Denmark and leading research institutions in Germany. Despite its promise, the study also points to notable limitations. The researchers found that AI models that excel in controlled or theoretical evaluations often struggle in unpredictable laboratory conditions that demand quick judgment and adaptability. Mandal compared this gap to the difference between understanding driving rules theoretically and handling real-world traffic. Safety concerns were another key issue. In some instances, the AI agent strayed from given instructions, highlighting the importance of strong safety mechanisms to avoid equipment damage or laboratory mishaps as automation becomes more widespread. Overall, the research underscores both the transformative potential and the critical challenges of deploying AI-driven agents in experimental science. Source: Indian Express

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Climate change–driven heat and humidity may worsen child stunting in South Asia by 2050: Study

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Rising temperatures combined with increasing humidity due to climate change could significantly worsen child health outcomes in South Asia, potentially leading to more than three million additional cases of stunting by 2050, according to a new study. The research, conducted by scientists at the University of California, Santa Barbara, examined how exposure to extreme heat and humid conditions during pregnancy affects early childhood development in one of the world’s most densely populated regions. The findings were published in the journal Science. The study focused on “height-for-age,” a widely used measure of chronic health and nutritional status among children under five. Researchers found that exposure to hot and humid weather during pregnancy—particularly during the earliest and latest stages—was strongly linked to poorer growth outcomes in children. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to heat stress because of physiological and hormonal changes that reduce the body’s ability to regulate temperature. High humidity further intensifies this risk by limiting the body’s capacity to cool down through sweating. The researchers noted that the impacts were most severe when heat and humidity occurred together. Exposure during the third trimester showed health effects nearly four times greater than exposure to high temperatures alone. The study used the wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT), which accounts for humidity, radiant heat, and airflow in addition to air temperature, to better capture real-world heat stress. The analysis also revealed demographic effects. Each additional day with a WBGT above 29°C was associated with fewer live births six to twelve months later. In contrast, days with maximum temperatures exceeding 35°C were linked to a temporary rise in births within three months, suggesting shifts in pregnancy timing and possible increases in early-stage pregnancy loss. According to the researchers, these trends align with earlier studies showing that extreme heat can lead to premature births and reduced conception rates. Hot and humid conditions, they warned, pose a greater risk to fetal development than heat alone. With climate models projecting a sharp rise in hot and humid days across South Asia under continued global warming, the study cautioned that the true health impacts of extreme weather may be underestimated if humidity is not fully considered. The research drew on child health data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and daily climate data produced by the Climate Hazards Center at UC Santa Barbara. Source: PTI  

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No immediate threat to Aravalli ecology; over 90% of region remains protected, says government

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The central government has asserted that the ecological integrity of the Aravalli range is not under any immediate threat, stating that more than 90% of the region continues to remain under protection. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said sustained afforestation efforts, eco-sensitive zone declarations, and stringent oversight of mining and urban development are helping preserve the Aravallis as a vital ecological barrier and natural heritage. Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav clarified that recent concerns around the Supreme Court’s 100-metre ruling on the Aravalli hills are based on misinterpretation. Addressing the media, he appealed to the public to refrain from spreading misinformation related to the fragile mountain range. The minister explained that the Aravalli range spans approximately 1.47 lakh square kilometres across Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Of this vast area, mining activities are permitted in only about 0.19%. He further emphasised that, in line with the Supreme Court’s directions, nearly 90% of the Aravalli region falls under protected status, with no relaxations granted. Highlighting Delhi’s status, Mr Yadav reiterated that mining is completely prohibited in the Aravalli hills within the national capital. He also noted that the Supreme Court has recently accepted the recommendations of a committee formed by the environment ministry, which redefined the Aravalli hill ranges. Under this definition, landforms with a height of less than 100 metres will no longer be classified as part of the ancient Aravalli system. The government maintained that these measures strike a balance between conservation and regulation, ensuring long-term ecological stability of the Aravallis. Source: newsonair

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Ikkz Ikbal, Principal, Maryam Memorial Institute Pandithpara Qaziabad, Srinagar shares insights on Integrating Technology and Skills for the Future

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Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a little about your institution. Yeah, my name is Ikkz Iqbal. I am the Principal and the Academic Head of Maryam Memorial Institute, Pandithpara. This institute is situated in a rural area of Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir. Despite many challenges, we are trying to integrate technology into the school curriculum and school management so that our students are prepared for the future—the AI storm and the digital storm that are coming. Students should be ready for that. For this, we have taken many initiatives which I believe are unique. We have a Samarth Prayer Programme initiative, where we give students something new to learn every day. That is a unique program we are running. Another initiative is titled Way to Destination, where we inculcate competition-based training in students right from Class 6, so that they become competitive and competent enough for the competitive examinations across the nation. We are also providing vocational and skill-based training to our students so that they do not remain dependent after completing their studies, because job opportunities are getting limited. Skilled people do not need to look for jobs—the jobs will find them. That is what we are trying to achieve in our institution, and we hope the institute succeeds in this. Thank you. You were a panel speaker today. How was your experience interacting with panelists from both school and higher education backgrounds? It was a very good blended panel, where we had panelists from schools as well as higher education. The experience was very enriching. I got to understand the problems we are facing in the Himalayan regions and the possible solutions to them. I believe that if these discussions do not remain only at the discussion level but are taken to the practical level, we will get real solutions. I also believe that school education and higher education will achieve equity, because equity begins with access—access to students, access to teachers, access to trainers, access to parents, and access to society as a whole. That is how we can achieve results and move towards digital empowerment. That is what Digital India is all about. You have attended multiple panels and industry sessions today. How has your experience been so far? First of all, the hospitality in this part of the nation—Jammu and Kashmir—is remarkable. We are very hospitable people, and thank you for appreciating that. Secondly, ArdorComm Media Group is doing a wonderful job by blending and integrating what is happening in education with technology. Thank you for giving us this opportunity and bringing these important discussions into the limelight. I believe ArdorComm will conduct such events in Kashmir as well. We are ready to welcome you there, because we need such programs and such initiatives more than anyone else. I truly hope you will come, and we will warmly welcome you. Thank you so much. Could you share a few lines about ArdorComm Media and give your wishes? ArdorComm Media is doing a great job. As rightly said in the speech by the founder, there is no fixed office setup, yet the organization is working across the nation, throughout India, and that itself is a great initiative. I hope ArdorComm Media rises day by day. The initiatives you are taking are remarkable, and you must continue with these efforts. I hope you reach the zenith, Inshallah. That is my wish. Thank you.  

Ikkz Ikbal, Principal, Maryam Memorial Institute Pandithpara Qaziabad, Srinagar shares insights on Integrating Technology and Skills for the Future Read More »

Prof. (Dr.) Rani Mughal, Principal, Govt. Degree College Surankote, Poonch shares her experience at AELSA Jammu 2025

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We welcome you to today’s event, how was your experience? My name is Dr. Rani Mughal. I am the Principal of Government Degree College Surankote, District Poonch, Jammu & Kashmir. I am thankful to ArdorComm Media for inviting me as an academic delegate to participate in this education summit. Additionally, I would like to make a point here. There are many summits happening in today’s era. When I was listening to the CEO, Kumar Chandan Anand ji, I was really inspired by his story. You mentioned that you do not have any physical office anywhere in India, yet you are doing a wonderful job and organizing such kinds of events. These events are not only promoting entrepreneurial skills but are also creating awareness that we are living in an age where technology is at the forefront. I thank ArdorComm Media for coming to remote regions like ours. It gives delegates a chance to express themselves and come to a platform where there is diversity. There are so many academicians here, and you have also invited civil servants. Today’s event is even more special because our Deputy Chief Minister, who is also from Jammu & Kashmir, will be the chief guest. I would like to give my best wishes and request that you organize more and more events in Jammu & Kashmir, especially in rural regions. If such events are organized here, it will be very beneficial for us.  

Prof. (Dr.) Rani Mughal, Principal, Govt. Degree College Surankote, Poonch shares her experience at AELSA Jammu 2025 Read More »

Ritesh Kapoor, Director- Principal, A.S.N. Hr. Secondary School, Channi Himmat, Jammu shares insights on Skill Development, Digital Learning, and Holistic Education

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We would like to know more about your institution. ASN Higher Secondary School stands for Adarsh Shiksha Niketan. The school was established in 1969, so we have a very strong historical background. It has 56 years of excellence. What role does skill development play at your institution? No school can run without skills and will. Skill development programs have been introduced at our school for the last decade. With government involvement, there is a special program called the INSPIRE Awards, where students’ skills are judged. They are asked to make projects and present their ideas and concepts in video format, project form, and written form, which are uploaded, and the government felicitates them. Our school has been part of the INSPIRE Awards category for more than 10 years. From which grade is skilling implemented in your institution? We have skill-based programs from Class 8 to Class 12. Before implementing any digital technology or innovation, what parameters do you follow? Our school is a fully smart campus with Wi-Fi. Every classroom is digital, equipped with tablets, smart TVs, and smart books. We definitely welcome new concepts, ideas, and technologies. AI and robotics are doing wonderful work in the market, and we will give them a warm welcome for sure. What are the key pointers before enrolling any tech partner? It needs to be user-friendly and pocket-friendly. Parents already face financial burdens related to uniforms, books, fees, and tuition. So before adding anything new to the curriculum or fee structure, we ensure it is genuine, economical, and budget-friendly. How important is sports in today’s curriculum, especially with increasing digitalization? To some extent, sports were lagging behind, but now parents, students, and schools have understood its importance. They are encouraging students toward sports and allied activities, and we actively push our students to participate. What weightage do you give to extracurricular activities? Two days ago, we held our inter-school annual day function where we felicitated merit holders, staff performers, and achievers in academics, extracurricular activities, co-curricular activities, and sports. We encourage students strongly, and teachers feel very proud when students participate and succeed. I am happy to share that our school stood first in inter-school cricket, hockey, debate, quiz (senior and junior categories), and painting competitions. Are you promoting entrepreneurship at the school level? Yes. I run a newspaper and a coffee house as well. We encourage students to start writing and improve their skills. Good writers are given opportunities to publish, and some are even paid. Around 100 students have received nominal payments for their writing skills. On special occasions, students also make cookies, chocolates, and cakes, which we sell at the coffee house. The earnings go directly to the students. How do forums like this help the education community? Education is always a joint venture. Schools cannot function alone without government support and corporate participation. For any event to be purposeful and successful, companies and stakeholders must come forward.  This forum includes everyone—from KG to PG, principals, owners, vice chancellors, and even bureaucrats. Have you attended a forum like this before? No, this is the first time. I congratulated the team during my panel discussion because this is the first platform where I saw discussions on skills, values, technology, involving teachers, principals, directors, vice chancellors, and bureaucrats together. Any key takeaways from today’s event? There are only takeaways—lots of learning and things to implement. This is the fourth anniversary of ArdorComm Media Group. Any message or wishes? ArdorComm is doing a wonderful job. Having representatives from 50 different cities is truly commendable. Keep doing your best, and you will definitely receive blessings and continued success.

Ritesh Kapoor, Director- Principal, A.S.N. Hr. Secondary School, Channi Himmat, Jammu shares insights on Skill Development, Digital Learning, and Holistic Education Read More »