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

/ Education Community

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

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

CBSE Eases Language Policy Transition, Allows Existing Students to Continue Two Foreign Languages Till Class 10

/ Education Community

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced relief for students in Classes 7 to 9 who are currently studying two foreign languages under the existing three-language framework. These students will now be permitted to continue with the same language combination until they complete Class 10. The decision comes shortly after CBSE declared that from July 1, Class 9 students would be required to follow a revised three-language policy mandating the study of three languages, including at least two Indian languages. Following concerns raised by students and parents, and legal challenges against the earlier directive, CBSE clarified that the updated language requirement will only be implemented prospectively. This means students already enrolled in Classes 7 to 9 will not be forced to switch their language choices midway through their schooling. A senior CBSE official confirmed that the revised policy aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 will begin applying from Class 6 onward, ensuring that ongoing batches are not affected retrospectively. An official circular explaining the revised stance is expected shortly. Earlier in May, CBSE had directed schools that until dedicated R3 language textbooks become available, students entering Class 9 in the 2026-27 academic year should temporarily use Class 6 R3 textbooks for their selected language. The updated language policy is part of CBSE’s larger curriculum reforms aimed at bringing school education in line with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. As per the May 15 circular, students wishing to study a foreign language under the new system will only be allowed to do so after completing two Indian languages, either as a third language option or as an additional fourth language. In another major academic reform, CBSE had earlier announced the phased rollout of the three-language formula from Class 6 and introduced a new two-level system for Mathematics and Science for Class 9 students from the 2026-27 academic session. Under the new structure, both Mathematics and Science will offer two levels — a compulsory standard level and an optional advanced level. While all students will take a common 80-mark examination, those seeking deeper subject proficiency can choose an additional advanced paper focused on conceptual understanding and higher-order thinking skills. CBSE has confirmed that the first Class 10 board examinations under this two-tier subject structure will take place in 2028 for students entering Class 9 in the 2026-27 academic year. Source: PTI

CBSE Eases Language Policy Transition, Allows Existing Students to Continue Two Foreign Languages Till Class 10 Read More »

Maharashtra Partners with Google to Train 4 Lakh Teachers in AI and Digital Skills

/ Education Community

The Maharashtra School Education Department has entered into a strategic partnership with Google for Education to provide artificial intelligence and digital technology training to more than four lakh teachers across the state. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed at Mantralaya in the presence of School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse. As part of the initiative, selected master trainers will first receive specialised training and will then mentor teachers across schools statewide. The programme will be offered completely free of cost by Google, ensuring no financial burden on the state government. Officials stated that while Google will facilitate training, the Maharashtra government will maintain full oversight of implementation and digital safety protocols for teachers. Minister of State for School Education Pankaj Bhoyar highlighted that the goal is to equip teachers in government and aided schools with globally recognised digital skills. The initiative will focus on improving AI literacy, enhancing digital competencies, and delivering training content in Marathi, Hindi, and English while encouraging the use of AI-powered educational tools for professional development. Source: PTI

Maharashtra Partners with Google to Train 4 Lakh Teachers in AI and Digital Skills Read More »

Coempt Edu Teck Rejects CBSE OSM Allegations, Says Scanning Errors Triggered Answer-Sheet Controversy

/ Education Community

Coempt Edu Teck, the Hyderabad-based firm facing scrutiny over the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) On-Screen Marking (OSM) system controversy, has dismissed claims of technical glitches and security vulnerabilities, stating that recent issues were isolated operational errors rather than failures in its technology infrastructure. The company clarified that the incident involving a student allegedly receiving another candidate’s answer sheet was linked to a mistake during the physical scanning process, not due to any software malfunction. According to Coempt, internal verification confirmed that the system itself functioned without technological errors, and the individual responsible for the scanning process had been identified. Responding to complaints regarding blurred answer-sheet images and readability concerns, the company said these cases are being examined in coordination with relevant evaluation authorities. It also refuted allegations that procurement norms were altered to allow inferior hardware, asserting that it uses industry-standard scanners that are upgraded regularly and deliver high-quality scanning resolution. Coempt further stated that nearly 95 percent of students who applied for access to scanned answer sheets have already received them, with only limited operational bottlenecks affecting the remaining cases. Addressing cybersecurity concerns raised after a 19-year-old ethical hacker reportedly discovered vulnerabilities on the platform, the company said the accessed server was only a publicly available testing environment containing dummy data and had no connection to live production systems handling student records. It emphasized that no student data had been compromised and its operational infrastructure remains secure. The company also referenced the controversy surrounding the 2019 Telangana Intermediate Examination Controversy, noting that courts had reviewed the matter and that the Supreme Court of India had rejected petitions seeking mass re-evaluation, compensation, and criminal proceedings against the technology provider. Currently, Coempt provides examination management services, including digitisation, on-screen evaluation, AI-assisted assessment, and question-paper management, to over 35 universities and educational institutions across India. Source: Indian Express

Coempt Edu Teck Rejects CBSE OSM Allegations, Says Scanning Errors Triggered Answer-Sheet Controversy Read More »

IIT Roorkee Partners with TeamLease EdTech to Launch Executive Programme in AI for E-Commerce and Quick Commerce

/ Education Community

Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee has introduced a new executive programme focused on Artificial Intelligence applications in e-commerce and quick commerce, in collaboration with TeamLease EdTech. Designed as a six-month course, the programme is aimed at working professionals looking to strengthen their expertise in rapidly evolving digital commerce sectors. The curriculum is structured to provide learners with in-depth knowledge of AI, machine learning, generative AI, natural language processing (NLP), and data-driven technologies that are transforming modern commerce ecosystems. Key modules include AI fundamentals, customer segmentation, recommendation engines, demand forecasting, inventory management, dynamic pricing strategies, fraud detection, customer analytics, and last-mile delivery optimisation. Participants will also gain practical exposure to industry-relevant tools and technologies such as Python, Power BI, Tableau, Elasticsearch, collaborative filtering models, association rule mining, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) architectures, LLM-powered chatbots, NLP frameworks, and open-source large language models. The programme will be delivered through live interactive sessions, making it accessible for professionals currently working as well as individuals aspiring to build careers in the e-commerce and quick commerce industry. Learners will work on real-world business challenges through hands-on projects and a capstone assignment focused on areas such as pricing strategies, customer intelligence, forecasting, recommendations, and churn analysis. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certification from the Continuing Education Centre at IIT Roorkee. Speaking on the launch, Prof. Soumitra Satapathi highlighted that the rapid growth of e-commerce and quick commerce is transforming business operations and customer expectations, making AI a critical component of future-ready business strategies. He noted that the programme has been designed to equip professionals with practical knowledge to apply AI solutions in real-world commerce environments. Source: Indian Express

IIT Roorkee Partners with TeamLease EdTech to Launch Executive Programme in AI for E-Commerce and Quick Commerce Read More »

UPSC Opens 400+ Direct Recruitment Vacancies Across 98 Posts; Applications Open Till July 3

/ Education Community

The Union Public Service Commission has announced a major recruitment drive under its direct recruitment scheme, offering more than 400 vacancies across 98 different positions in multiple central government departments and Union Territory administrations. Interested and eligible candidates can submit their applications online through UPSC ORA Portal. As per the official notification, the application process began on June 13, 2026, and candidates can apply until July 3, 2026, by 6 PM. The recruitment covers a wide range of ministries and departments, creating opportunities for professionals in engineering, aviation, scientific research, administration, law, healthcare, education, and technical roles. Key vacancies include Junior Scientific Officer, Operations Officer, Air Safety Officer, Assistant Director, Assistant Engineer, Assistant Public Prosecutor, along with teaching and faculty positions such as Associate Professors and Assistant Professors at the College of Military Engineering in Pune. Among the largest openings are 121 Specialist Grade-III medical positions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 50 Assistant Director Grade-II (Economic) posts under MSME, and 40 Assistant Professor vacancies under the Ministry of Defence’s CME group. Several positions have also been announced for departments in Ladakh, including administrative, technical, and healthcare roles. Candidates are advised to review the official recruitment notification carefully for department-wise vacancy details, eligibility criteria, and qualification requirements before applying. Source: Indian Express

UPSC Opens 400+ Direct Recruitment Vacancies Across 98 Posts; Applications Open Till July 3 Read More »

IIT Kanpur Introduces B Cyber Programme; Admissions Through JEE Main and Cybersecurity Assessment

/ Education Community

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) has announced the launch of a new undergraduate programme, Bachelor of Cybersecurity (B Cyber), commencing from the 2026-27 academic session. The four-year degree will be offered through the Wadhwani School of AI and Intelligent Systems, with the first batch set to begin classes in July 2026. Unlike traditional IIT undergraduate programmes, admission to the B Cyber course will not require a JEE Advanced score. Instead, applicants will be shortlisted based on their performance in JEE Main along with demonstrated experience or accomplishments in the field of cybersecurity. Selected candidates will then undergo an in-person evaluation at the IIT Kanpur campus, which will include a cybersecurity-focused hackathon. The programme has been structured to blend academic learning with practical industry exposure. During the first two years, students will study core cybersecurity concepts through classroom instruction, laboratory sessions, and hands-on training designed to build strong theoretical and technical foundations. In the final two years, students will undertake internships with government security agencies, gaining real-world experience by working on cybersecurity projects and addressing critical security challenges. IIT Kanpur stated that the programme has been introduced to address the growing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals amid increasing concerns around digital security and the protection of critical infrastructure. IIT Kanpur Director Manindra Agrawal emphasized the strategic importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding national and digital assets. Nitin Saxena, Dean of the Wadhwani School of AI and Intelligent Systems, said the initiative aims to create industry-ready professionals by combining rigorous academic education with extensive practical training. The institute also announced that a dedicated admission portal for the programme is currently under development and is expected to be launched next week. Comprehensive details regarding eligibility criteria, admission procedures, and application guidelines will be available on the website. Source: Indian Express

IIT Kanpur Introduces B Cyber Programme; Admissions Through JEE Main and Cybersecurity Assessment Read More »

IAF to Airlift NEET-UG 2026 Retest Question Papers Ahead of June 21 Examination

/ Education Community

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will play a key role in the conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 retest by transporting question papers to 18 locations across the country ahead of the examination scheduled for June 21, 2026. According to sources in the Ministry of Defence, the papers will be airlifted to designated hubs before being securely distributed to examination centres nationwide. The enhanced security arrangements come amid heightened scrutiny following the cancellation of the original NEET-UG 2026 examination, which was conducted on May 3. The test was annulled on May 12 after allegations of a question paper leak surfaced, prompting an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Meanwhile, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has rejected claims circulating on social media regarding an alleged leak or sale of the retest question paper. On June 6, the agency described such reports as false and misleading, warning that strict action would be taken against individuals responsible for spreading misinformation. The June 21 retest is being conducted under strengthened security protocols to ensure the integrity and transparency of the country’s largest medical entrance examination. Source: The Hindu

IAF to Airlift NEET-UG 2026 Retest Question Papers Ahead of June 21 Examination Read More »

IAF to Transport NEET 2026 Question Papers as Telangana Prepares for Re-Exam Across 208 Centres

/ Education Community

Around 73,000 candidates are set to appear for the NEET 2026 re-examination in Telangana on June 21, with authorities implementing extensive measures to ensure a smooth and secure conduct of the test. The examination will be held across 208 centres located in 24 cities throughout the state. During a high-level review meeting chaired by Telangana Chief Secretary K. Ramakrishna Rao, National Testing Agency (NTA) Director General Abhishek Singh announced that the Indian Air Force (IAF) will, for the first time, be involved in transporting NEET question papers. The move is aimed at strengthening security and safeguarding the integrity of the examination process. The Chief Secretary directed district administrations and relevant departments to coordinate closely and ensure seamless arrangements for candidates, including infrastructure, transportation, power supply, drinking water, and other essential facilities at examination venues. Telangana Principal Secretary (Health), Christina Z. Chongthu, stated that all necessary preparations are underway to facilitate the large-scale examination across the state. Emphasizing security, Director General of Police (Law and Order) Mahesh Bhagwat instructed police authorities to maintain strict vigilance at examination centres and work in coordination with local administrations. He also urged officials to actively monitor social media platforms to counter rumours and misinformation that could disrupt the examination process. With enhanced security protocols and comprehensive logistical planning, authorities are aiming to provide a hassle-free and fair examination environment for all NEET aspirants. Source: PTI  

IAF to Transport NEET 2026 Question Papers as Telangana Prepares for Re-Exam Across 208 Centres Read More »

CBSE Receives Nearly 44,000 Rechecking Requests Amid Ongoing Portal Issues

/ Education Community

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has recorded 43,980 applications for verification and re-evaluation of Class 12 answer sheets as of 12 noon on June 3, reflecting a surge in demand for post-result services. The total includes 4,924 requests for verification and 39,056 applications for re-evaluation. Despite the high number of successful submissions, students and parents continue to raise concerns over technical difficulties on the portal. Several complaints shared on social media platform X alleged delays in receiving scanned copies of evaluated answer books, a prerequisite for applying for verification and re-evaluation. Others reported missing options for certain subjects and questions, along with confusion surrounding compartment examination-related applications. In response, CBSE stated that its technical teams are actively monitoring the portal to ensure a secure, reliable, and student-friendly experience. The board also announced the integration of multiple payment gateways, including those of SBI, Canara Bank, Bank of Baroda, and Indian Bank. Students can make payments through UPI, net banking, debit cards, or credit cards without requiring accounts in these banks. According to CBSE, nearly 40,000 students had successfully completed their applications by 9:30 am on June 3. The latest figures mark a substantial increase from the previous evening, when the board reported over 28,000 successful submissions and nearly 14,000 concurrent users on the platform. To address user feedback, CBSE has introduced several enhancements, including extending session time limits to reduce automatic logouts during the application process. The verification and re-evaluation window remains open from June 2 to June 6 for Class 12 students who have obtained scanned copies of their answer books. Under the revised post-result framework, students can apply for verification at a fee of ₹100 per answer book and request re-evaluation at ₹25 per question. The board had postponed the portal launch to June 1 to facilitate a smoother and more transparent process. Since its launch, the system has faced heavy traffic and cyberattack attempts, prompting CBSE to strengthen technical safeguards while keeping services operational. Source: Indian Express

CBSE Receives Nearly 44,000 Rechecking Requests Amid Ongoing Portal Issues Read More »