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Tuesday, August 19, 2025 11:14 AM

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71st National Film Awards 2025: Full Winners List and Highlights

The 71st National Film Awards, one of the most revered recognitions in Indian cinema, have been officially announced, honouring the best in filmmaking, performances, and technical brilliance from across the country. Known for their credibility and impartiality, the National Awards stand apart from other honours in the Indian film industry by prioritising artistic and cinematic excellence over commercial success. Administered by the Directorate of Film Festivals and presented by the President of India, these awards celebrate films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) during the previous calendar year (January 1 to December 31). A jury, consisting of noted film personalities, undertakes the task of screening entries and selecting winners across categories and languages. This year’s awards reflect a powerful blend of storytelling, technical achievement, and strong performances, cutting across regional and mainstream cinema. From high-profile Bollywood blockbusters to intimate regional dramas, the winners showcased the diversity and depth of Indian filmmaking. Major Acting Honours Best Actor was jointly awarded to Shah Rukh Khan for Jawan and Vikrant Massey for 12th Fail. This marked a significant milestone in Khan’s career as he bagged his first National Award for acting. Best Actress went to Rani Mukerji for her emotionally charged role in Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway, which highlighted the struggles of a mother caught in an international legal battle. Supporting Performances Recognised Best Supporting Actor honours were shared between Vijayaraghavan (Pookkalam) and Muthupettai Somu Bhaskar (Parking). Best Supporting Actress was jointly awarded to Urvashi (Ullozhukku) and Janaki Bodiwala (Vash). Top Feature Films by Language Best Feature Film overall: 12th Fail Best Hindi Film: Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery Best Telugu Film: Bhagavanth Kesari Best Tamil Film: Parking Best Malayalam Film: Ullozhukku Best Kannada Film: Kandeelu: The Ray of Hope Best Marathi Film: Shyamchi Aai Best Bengali Film: Deep Fridge Best Gujarati Film: Vash Best Punjabi Film: Godday Godday Chaa Best Odia Film: Pushkara Best Assamese Film: Rongatapu 1982 These selections showcase the cultural and linguistic diversity of Indian cinema, reaffirming the National Film Awards’ commitment to inclusivity. Technical Excellence and Direction Best Director: Sudipto Sen for The Kerala Story, praised for its bold narrative and technical finesse. Best Choreography: Vaibhavi Merchant for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani Best Action Direction: Nandu and Prudhvi for Hanu-Man Best Lyrics: Kasarla Shyam for Balagam Best Music Direction: G.V. Prakash Kumar (Songs) for Vaathi Harshavardhan Rameshwar (Background Score) for Animal Performance in Music and Sound Best Male Playback Singer: P.V.N. S. Rohit for Baby Best Female Playback Singer: Shilpa Rao for Jawan Best Sound Design: Sachin Sudhakaran & Hariharan for Animal Other Key Technical Awards Best Cinematography: Prasanthanu Mohapatra for The Kerala Story Best Editing: Midhun Murali for Pookkaalam Best Production Design: Mohandas for 2018 – Everyone is a Hero Best Makeup: Shrikanth Desai for Sam Bahadur Best Costume Design: Sachin, Divya, Nidhhi for Sam Bahadur Special Mention: M.R. Radhakrishnan (Re-recording mixer) for Animal Final Thoughts The 71st National Film Awards not only celebrated artistic and cinematic triumphs but also reflected the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, where regional films continue to shine alongside mainstream blockbusters. The event acknowledged both legendary figures and fresh voices, reinforcing the relevance of storytelling that resonates across audiences and regions. Shah Rukh Khan’s long-awaited National Award win and the sweeping recognition for 12th Fail stood out as emotional and symbolic moments, while the inclusion of underrepresented languages and filmmakers demonstrated the Awards’ commitment to embracing India’s cinematic mosaic.

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Tesla Launches First Showroom in India, Enters World’s Third-Largest Auto Market

Tesla officially entered the Indian automobile market on Tuesday with the opening of its first showroom in the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), an upscale business district in Mumbai. The launch marks the electric vehicle (EV) giant’s much-anticipated foray into the world’s third-largest car market, after years of negotiation and policy roadblocks. The newly opened facility in Mumbai will serve as Tesla’s flagship retail and experience centre, introducing Indian consumers to its global EV portfolio. Initially, the company will import and sell the Model Y, with the rear-wheel-drive long-range variant priced at ₹6.78 million ($79,089). Deliveries are expected to begin in Q3 of 2025. While Tesla vehicles retail for approximately $44,990 in the United States (excluding tax incentives), high import duties and a premium positioning are expected to limit Tesla’s reach in India’s price-sensitive auto market. Despite this, industry observers say Tesla’s entry signifies increasing investor trust and adds momentum to India’s clean mobility goals. “Tesla brings cutting-edge EV technology to India. With deeper local engagement, the company can stimulate the EV ecosystem, support innovation, and align with national sustainability targets,” said Gaurav Vangaal, Associate Director at S&P Global Mobility. Policy Shifts and Delayed Promises Tesla’s arrival follows prolonged delays stemming from India’s steep import duties—previously as high as 100% for fully built imported EVs. In April 2016, Tesla CEO Elon Musk had invited Indian customers to place pre-orders, but no deliveries followed, and the advance payments were eventually refunded. In 2019, Musk expressed concern that India’s tariffs made Tesla cars “unaffordable,” urging for policy reforms. The situation shifted significantly earlier this year after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the U.S. in February 2025, prompting the Indian government to launch a revised EV policy. This policy reduced import taxes to 15% for EVs under $35,000, provided manufacturers commit to building local factories within three years. Although Musk initially planned a visit to India in April—widely seen as a precursor to announcing manufacturing plans—the trip was cancelled due to pressing company matters, and Musk instead traveled to China, one of Tesla’s core markets. Since then, Tesla has clarified that it has no immediate plans for domestic production in India. The U.S. government has also weighed in, with President Joe Biden expressing concern that Tesla could potentially use Indian manufacturing to circumvent U.S. tariffs, complicating ongoing bilateral trade negotiations between the two nations. Tesla’s Competition and Market Landscape In India, Tesla is expected to compete with high-end automakers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, rather than local budget players like Tata Motors or Mahindra & Mahindra. However, the luxury car segment accounts for just 1% of India’s total car sales, making it a niche but potentially influential market. Currently, EVs form just over 2% of India’s overall car market, but the government aims to increase that share to 30% by 2030 through incentives and infrastructure development. Starlink and Broader India Plans Tesla’s India strategy goes beyond cars. Musk’s other venture, Starlink, which aims to provide satellite-based internet, has seen recent progress in India. The service still requires telecom spectrum allocation from the government—a process expected to take a few months—before commercial operations can begin. In sum, while Tesla’s India debut is a symbolic and strategic milestone, the journey ahead depends on how quickly it can localize operations, navigate regulatory frameworks, and align with India’s evolving EV goals. Source: AP Photo Credit: Reuters

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Shubhanshu Shukla Becomes Second Indian in Space, 41 Years After Rakesh Sharma

India has once again etched its name into the stars. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force launched into space, becoming only the second Indian to do so — and the first to reach the International Space Station (ISS). His milestone flight comes 41 years after the legendary Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission aboard the Soviet Soyuz T-11. Launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, Shukla joins the Ax-4 mission of Axiom Space, marking a new era in India’s space journey. The crew, a mix of global astronauts, will live and work aboard the ISS for 14 days, conducting crucial scientific experiments. A Launch Worth the Wait The road to space was anything but smooth. Originally set for May 29, the launch faced seven delays due to technical issues, weather concerns, and complications aboard the ISS. SpaceX, NASA, ISRO, and Axiom Space worked tirelessly to resolve these, all while the crew remained quarantined and mission-critical biological samples were replenished. Despite the setbacks, the launch was a flawless spectacle. The Falcon-9 rocket’s engines thundered into life, lifting the Dragon capsule toward Low Earth Orbit. The first stage of the rocket returned to Earth successfully, while the second stage propelled Dragon into its planned path to the ISS. An Astronaut with a Purpose Shukla, born in 1985 — a year after Sharma’s flight — has long dreamed of reaching space. A decorated test pilot with experience flying aircraft like the MiG-21, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and Dornier, he now serves as the mission pilot. Although the Dragon is designed for autonomous docking, Shukla is responsible for monitoring flight systems and standing by for manual intervention if needed. His family watched the liftoff with pride from the viewing gallery, marking a moment not only of personal achievement but of national significance. International Crew, Shared Vision The Ax-4 crew reflects a spirit of global collaboration. Commanding the mission is Dr. Peggy Whitson — a legendary American astronaut and the most experienced spacefarer from the U.S., with over 675 days in orbit. Joining her are Poland’s Sawosz Uznanski, a CERN physicist and engineer representing the European Space Agency, and Hungary’s Tibor Kapu, a polymer technology expert involved in the HUNOR space program. Science in Orbit During the mission, Shukla will conduct seven India-designed experiments. These range from growing traditional Indian crops like moong and methi in microgravity to studying the behavior of microbes, muscle degeneration, the effects of prolonged screen exposure on mental health, and cellular ageing. One experiment will even explore algae as a sustainable space food source. The findings aim to inform future deep-space missions to the Moon and Mars. He will also connect with Indian students from orbit, inspiring the next generation of scientists and dreamers. Strategic Leap for Gaganyaan Shukla’s role in the Ax-4 mission is also a dress rehearsal for India’s upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, in which he is one of the four shortlisted astronauts. The operational knowledge — from international collaboration and pre-launch protocols to microgravity adaptation and scientific procedures — will feed directly into Gaganyaan’s readiness. This mission is not just about scientific progress; it strengthens India’s growing capabilities in human spaceflight, setting the stage for self-reliant space exploration. As Shubhanshu Shukla orbits Earth, he carries not only instruments and experiments — but the collective hopes of 1.4 billion Indians. His voyage is a testament to India’s rising stature in global space exploration and a symbol that the stars are indeed within reach. Source: India Today Photo Credit: SpaceX

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Yoga and Health: A Timeless Practice for Modern Well-being

In an age where chronic stress, lifestyle diseases, and burnout have become the new normal, the ancient practice of yoga offers a powerful antidote — a holistic approach to health that nurtures the body, calms the mind, and uplifts the spirit. Far more than a form of physical exercise, yoga is a science of well-being, offering preventive, promotive, and even therapeutic benefits that align perfectly with the evolving focus on whole-person health. As we grow more aware of the deep connections between physical, mental, emotional, and social wellness, yoga emerges not as a trend — but a timeless tool for healing. The Foundations of Yoga: Health Beyond the Physical Yoga, derived from the Sanskrit word “yuj” meaning to unite, is designed to create harmony between the body and the mind. At its core, yoga is about balance — balancing movement and stillness, breath and awareness, strength and surrender. Unlike quick-fix health fads, yoga encourages long-term, sustainable well-being through a series of practices: Asana (postures): Improve mobility, strength, posture, and circulation. Pranayama (breathing exercises): Regulate energy, reduce stress, and enhance lung function. Dhyana (meditation): Cultivate clarity, emotional regulation, and mental resilience. Lifestyle and ethics (yamas & niyamas): Encourage self-discipline, mindful habits, and inner peace. These elements work together to support health at multiple levels — physical, psychological, emotional, and even social. Yoga and Preventive Healthcare Yoga is not just for those seeking flexibility or stress relief — it’s increasingly recognized by health professionals and institutions as a preventive health strategy. Here’s how it supports different facets of wellness: Cardiovascular Health Lowers blood pressure and resting heart rate Improves heart rate variability and circulation Reduces risk factors associated with hypertension and heart disease Mental Health Reduces anxiety, depression, and symptoms of trauma Balances mood by regulating cortisol and other stress hormones Increases mindfulness and self-awareness, key to emotional regulation Respiratory and Immune Function Enhances lung capacity and oxygenation through conscious breathing Supports immune resilience by reducing inflammation and stress Musculoskeletal Health Improves joint health, flexibility, and muscular strength Relieves chronic pain (especially back, neck, and joint issues) Enhances balance and body awareness, reducing risk of falls  Sleep and Digestive Health Encourages better sleep patterns and reduces insomnia Stimulates parasympathetic response for improved digestion The Mind-Body Connection: Why Yoga Works The practice of yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system — also known as the “rest and digest” mode — which helps the body recover from chronic stress. In contrast to high-impact workouts that raise adrenaline levels, yoga encourages calm alertness, helping practitioners stay grounded and focused. This mind-body integration supports not only disease prevention but also faster healing, better coping mechanisms, and a stronger sense of control over one’s health. In fact, many hospitals and integrative health clinics now prescribe yoga alongside conventional treatment for: Diabetes Arthritis Asthma Depression Hypertension Rehabilitation post-surgery or injury Making Yoga a Part of Your Daily Health Routine You don’t need to commit hours or master advanced poses to benefit. The key is consistency and intention. Here’s how you can begin: Start with 15–20 minutes a day — even gentle stretches and breathing count Try guided sessions through certified instructors or apps focused on therapeutic yoga Focus on breath — mindful breathing alone has immense physiological benefits Incorporate yoga at work — desk yoga and mid-day breathing breaks can reduce fatigue and improve focus Listen to your body — yoga is about tuning in, not pushing through Looking Ahead: Yoga as a Health Movement As public health priorities shift towards preventive care, mental wellness, and lifestyle modification, yoga is becoming a pillar of future-ready healthcare systems. From corporate wellness programs to school-based yoga and community health drives, yoga is proving to be cost-effective, scalable, and universally accessible. Its role in managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) — which account for over 70% of global deaths — makes it more relevant than ever. Final Thoughts: Health is Harmony At its heart, yoga reminds us that health isn’t merely the absence of illness — it is the presence of harmony within and around us. When the body moves, the breath flows, and the mind rests, we tap into our most natural state: wellness. As the world grows more health-conscious and digitally drained, yoga remains a grounding force — a reminder that healing begins from within, one breath at a time. “Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” – Bhagavad Gita Whether you’re managing a health condition, seeking stress relief, or simply trying to live more mindfully — yoga is for you. Start where you are. Move at your own pace. And trust the process. Photo Credit: IStock

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Cybersecurity in Education: Protecting Students in the Digital World

As classrooms evolve from chalkboards to Chromebooks, the education sector is increasingly vulnerable to one of the most pressing threats of the 21st century—cyberattacks. With institutions rapidly adopting digital platforms for learning, administration, and communication, safeguarding the digital safety of students, teachers, and institutional data has become more crucial than ever. The Rise of Cyber Threats in Education Educational institutions are gold mines for cybercriminals. They store vast amounts of sensitive data—from student records and academic histories to biometric information and financial details. According to reports, the education sector is among the top five most targeted industries globally for cyberattacks. Common cyber threats include: Phishing Emails: Deceptive emails tricking students or staff into revealing personal information or login credentials.  Ransomware: Malicious software that locks data until a ransom is paid.  Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to student records and research data.  DDoS Attacks: Distributed Denial-of-Service attacks that crash school websites or learning management systems.  Why Are Educational Institutions Targeted? Low Security Infrastructure: Many institutions, especially in developing countries, operate on outdated systems and lack dedicated IT teams.  Human Error: Students and faculty often lack training in identifying cyber threats, making them easy targets.  High-Value Data: Student identity information can be used for identity theft, while research data is valuable for industrial espionage.  Impact on Students and Learning Cybersecurity lapses in education don’t just compromise data—they disrupt learning and psychological well-being. For example: School closures due to ransomware attacks can lead to missed classes and exams.  Loss of personal data can lead to identity theft and long-term emotional distress.  Exposure to inappropriate or harmful online content through unsecured platforms can impact student safety and mental health.  Protective Measures for Institutions To build a digital fortress around education, institutions must adopt a multi-layered approach: 1. Invest in Cybersecurity Infrastructure Upgrade legacy systems and software regularly.  Use firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption protocols.  Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all user accounts.  2. Conduct Regular Training and Awareness Organize workshops for students, faculty, and staff on recognizing phishing, handling passwords, and reporting suspicious activity.  Encourage cyber hygiene practices such as not sharing credentials or clicking unknown links.  3. Secure Learning Management Systems (LMS) Opt for reputable and secure platforms.  Regularly audit permissions and user access levels.  4. Develop and Test Incident Response Plans Have a clear strategy for identifying, reporting, and recovering from cyber incidents.  Run simulation drills to ensure readiness.  5. Foster a Culture of Digital Responsibility Include digital citizenship and online safety in school curricula.  Promote ethical tech use and respect for privacy among students.  Role of Government and Policy Several governments are waking up to the urgency of cybersecurity in education: In India, initiatives like Cyber Surakshit Bharat and Digital India aim to promote safe digital practices.  The U.S. K-12 Cybersecurity Act provides funding and guidance to public schools for cybersecurity preparedness.  The European Union’s GDPR has raised awareness about data protection responsibilities in educational institutions.  Collaboration is Key Cybersecurity is not just the IT department’s job. It requires a collaborative effort between: School management to fund and prioritize digital safety.  Teachers and students to remain vigilant.  Parents to reinforce safe practices at home.  EdTech providers to build privacy-first platforms.  Looking Ahead: A Secure Digital Future for Learning Education is the cornerstone of progress—and its digital transformation must be safeguarded. As we embrace online learning, AI tools, and smart classrooms, cybersecurity can no longer be an afterthought. It’s time to put student safety at the heart of digital innovation. By integrating robust cybersecurity strategies, raising awareness, and encouraging a culture of digital responsibility, we can create safe, inclusive, and future-ready learning environments—where education flourishes without fear.  

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Andhra Pradesh Partners with Wadhwani Foundation for AI-Driven Governance

In a significant step toward AI-driven governance, the Andhra Pradesh government has signed an MoU with the Wadhwani Foundation (WF) to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Generative AI, and Drones into governance. The agreement was signed between Katamneni Bhaskar, Secretary of Information Technology, Electronics & Communication (ITE&C) Department, and Prakash Kumar, CEO of Wadhwani Centre for Government Digital Transformation (WGDT). Key Objectives: Enhancing service delivery and optimizing government schemes Implementing AI-driven solutions for greater efficiency and transparency Leveraging AI-based data analysis to refine policies and streamline programs Boosting citizen engagement through technology-enabled governance A critical component of this initiative is capacity building among government officials. The state will introduce an AI Bootcamp under WGDT’s ‘AI Champions’ and ‘AI Enablers’ programmes to train government employees in AI applications. Additionally, AI-enabled online resources will be provided for continuous digital learning. This partnership is a pro-bono effort, with both GoAP and WF contributing resources and expertise to drive effective AI adoption. Katamneni Bhaskar, Secretary of ITE&C, stated: “Andhra Pradesh is committed to leveraging AI for better governance and public service efficiency.” With this collaboration, Andhra Pradesh is set to become a pioneer in AI-powered governance, ensuring smarter policies and improved citizen services. Source: Indian Express

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Union Budget 2025: Reactions from Education Leaders on Key Announcements

The Union Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has unveiled a range of initiatives aimed at transforming India’s education sector. With a strong focus on skill development, digital infrastructure, and higher education expansion, the budget sets the stage for a future-ready education system. Education leaders across the country have shared their insights on the impact and implications of these measures. Key Announcements in Education: Atal Tinkering Labs: 50,000 labs to be set up in government schools over five years to foster innovation and scientific temper among students. Broadband Connectivity: Extension of broadband under BharatNet to all government secondary schools, ensuring digital access for students in rural areas. Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme: Digital-format books in Indian languages to support multilingual education. Expansion of Medical Education: Addition of 10,000 medical seats next year, with a long-term goal of 75,000 new seats over five years. National Centres of Excellence for Skilling: Five centres to be set up with global partnerships for skill development in manufacturing and emerging technologies. Expansion of IIT Infrastructure: Capacity expansion in five IITs and hostel expansion at IIT Patna to accommodate growing student demand. Centre of Excellence in AI for Education: Establishment of a specialized AI centre with a budget allocation of Rs 500 crore to integrate AI into educational methodologies and research. Industry Leaders React to Budget Announcements: “The Union Budget 2025-26 demonstrates a strong commitment towards fostering inclusive and quality education in India. The government’s initiatives such as setting up 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools, providing broadband connectivity to rural schools, and launching Centres of Excellence in AI for education with a ₹500 crore outlay reflect a forward-looking approach. The expansion of IIT capacity and the establishment of five National Centres of Excellence for skilling are crucial steps in equipping the youth with industry-relevant skills. Moreover, the PM Research Fellowship, offering 10,000 fellowships for technological research, will strengthen India’s innovation ecosystem. India, a nation of young entrepreneurs, is making its mark on the global stage by prioritizing skill development and future-ready education, a recognition further validated by the QS World Future Skills Index. These efforts collectively pave the way for a skilled and empowered workforce, driving the nation towards ‘Viksit Bharat’.” – Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University. “The Union Budget 2025-26 demonstrates a strong commitment to India’s education sector, allocating ₹1.28 lakh crore—₹78,572 crore for school education and ₹50,078 crore for higher education. Key initiatives include adding 6,500 IIT seats, establishing a ₹500 crore Centre of Excellence in AI for education, and setting up 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to enhance STEM learning. Additionally, 10,000 medical college seats will be added next year, contributing to 75,000 new seats over five years. Despite these advancements, the allocation remains below the 6% GDP target recommended by NEP 2020, potentially impacting India’s Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) goal of 50% by 2035. India’s education spending (4.1%-4.6% of GDP) aligns with global benchmarks, but a stronger focus on PreK-12 education, regulatory support for private schools, and equitable investment in digital infrastructure is necessary to ensure holistic growth across all levels.” – Reekrit Serai, Managing Director, Satluj Group of Schools. “Budget 2025 takes a bold step toward a knowledge-driven India, emphasizing AI, skilling, and digital access. With 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs, broadband in government schools, and a ₹500 crore Centre of Excellence for AI in Education, technology is becoming a great equalizer. The Deeptech Fund and PM Research Fellowship Scheme further strengthen India’s innovation ecosystem. Expanding IIT infrastructure, setting up skilling centers, and increasing teacher recruitment will boost education quality. The focus on STEM, sustainability, and socio-emotional learning aligns with 21st-century needs. While the budget is ambitious, achieving the long-promised 6% GDP allocation for education remains a challenge. More collaboration between private and public schools, alongside better governance, is essential. With its emphasis on AI, upskilling, and cultural preservation, this budget is a significant leap forward—an 8/10 effort, with brownie points for integrating Indian sanskaar with futuristic growth.” – Kanak Gupta, Group Director, Seth M.R. Jaipuria Schools. “The 2025 budget takes commendable steps in expanding IIT infrastructure, AI-driven education, and skill development, but a truly transformative vision must go beyond elite institutions. With 90% of higher education provided by private and deemed universities, targeted support for these institutions is essential for inclusive growth. Additionally, ₹500 crore for AI in education is just a starting point—India needs bolder investments to lead globally in AI-driven learning. A more holistic approach will ensure that quality education reaches every student, not just those in premier institutions.” – ⁠Dr. Ramakrishnan Raman, Vice Chancellor, Symbiosis international University, Pune. “The Union Budget 2025-26 reinforces India’s commitment to education and skill development with a ₹1.28 lakh crore allocation. Key initiatives include broadband connectivity for all government secondary schools under BharatNet, the establishment of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs, and five National Institutes of Excellence for Skilling. The focus on AI, STEM education, and industry-driven skill programs will equip youth for a tech-driven future. Strengthening academia-industry collaboration and digital learning will accelerate India’s journey towards self-reliance and global leadership in education and innovation.” – Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra, Co-founder and Chancellor of Shobhit Deemed University, Meerut. “The Budget 2025-26 reaffirms India’s commitment to becoming a global knowledge superpower. With an allocation of ₹128,650 crore for education, this budget strengthens accessibility, equity, and quality. Key Highlights: School Education (₹78,572 crore, +16%) – Expansion of Samagra Shiksha (₹41,250 crore), PM POSHAN (₹12,500 crore), and PM SHRI (₹7,500 crore) will enhance infrastructure and learning. 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs will foster innovation in government schools. Higher Education (₹50,078 crore, +7.74%) – Expansion of IITs, 10,000 new medical seats, and the PM Research Fellowship Scheme will boost research and innovation. AI & Digital Education (₹500 crore) – Establishment of the Centre of Excellence in AI will revolutionize education. The Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme will enhance inclusivity through digital Indian language books. Skilling & Employability – Five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling with global partnerships will align education with industry needs. Education Accessibility –

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Gaza Ceasefire: Key Details of the Israel-Hamas Truce Agreement and Governance Prospects

Efforts to end the long-standing conflict in Gaza have led to a draft ceasefire agreement mediated by Qatar. The proposal outlines several stages aimed at halting hostilities, exchanging hostages for Palestinian prisoners, and addressing humanitarian concerns in the region. Key Elements of the Ceasefire Agreement Stage One: Hostage Release The first phase focuses on the return of 33 hostages held by Hamas. These include children, women (including female soldiers), men over 50, and individuals who are wounded or ill. While Israel suspects most hostages are alive, there has been no confirmation from Hamas. This stage could last between two weeks to 60 days. Negotiations for a second stage would begin on the 16th day of the agreement, aiming to secure the release of younger civilian males, male soldiers, and the remains of deceased hostages. Exchange for Hostages In return, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. While exact numbers vary, estimates suggest “many hundreds” to over 1,000 prisoners. Those convicted of deadly attacks, including participants in the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, will not be released to the West Bank. Phased Military Withdrawal Israeli forces will implement a phased withdrawal, ensuring the safety of border towns and maintaining a presence along the Philadelphi corridor near Egypt. Key changes include: Allowing unarmed North Gaza residents to return under monitored conditions. Gradual reopening of the Rafah crossing for medical evacuations. Increased humanitarian aid into Gaza, addressing the region’s severe crisis. Humanitarian Assistance The agreement emphasizes humanitarian aid expansion, as international organizations report dire conditions in Gaza. The Future of Gaza Governance The governance of Gaza remains a contentious issue and is absent from the current agreement due to its complexity. Israel’s Position: Hamas cannot remain in power post-conflict. Israel opposes the Palestinian Authority’s governance over Gaza and intends to retain security control over the enclave. International Stance: Gaza must eventually be governed by Palestinians. Discussions are ongoing among Israel, the UAE, and the U.S. regarding a provisional administration until a reformed Palestinian Authority is prepared to take control. Outlook While the draft agreement signifies progress, many details remain unresolved. The truce is a critical first step toward peace, yet the long-term governance and stability of Gaza demand further negotiations and international cooperation. Source: english.jagran Photo Credit: english.jagran

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Maharashtra Launches ‘E-Cabinet’ System to Modernize Governance

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Maharashtra government has introduced an ‘e-cabinet’ system aimed at revolutionizing governance by replacing traditional paperwork with smart tablets to document cabinet meetings. The system was launched by Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik on Tuesday as part of a broader strategy to enhance transparency and streamline administrative processes. Championed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the e-cabinet is designed to improve efficiency and communication in government processes while promoting environmental sustainability. This digital platform will enable ministers to access a user-friendly dashboard that includes relevant references, action points, and the ability to monitor the implementation of decisions. The e-cabinet system eliminates the need for paper-based proposal presentations, discussions, and documentation, making it easier for officials to retrieve meeting records and past decisions. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce paper usage, saving time for cabinet members and officials, and ensuring quick communication of decisions to the public. Described as a green initiative, the e-cabinet underscores the Maharashtra government’s commitment to fostering good governance and promoting sustainable practices. The system is seen as a critical step toward improving the efficiency of governance and tackling public issues more effectively. Source: devdiscourse Photo Credit: devdiscourse

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Hospitals in Gaza Warn of Fuel Shortage Amid Intensifying Conflict

The Gaza health ministry has sounded an alarm, warning that hospitals in the territory have only two days’ worth of fuel left. This urgent appeal comes amid escalating conflict and worsening humanitarian conditions, with aid deliveries facing severe disruptions. Marwan al-Hams, director of Gaza’s field hospitals, issued a dire warning, stating that hospitals will cease operations or significantly limit services if fuel supplies are not replenished. The United Nations has echoed these concerns, highlighting that essential aid, including food, water, and medical supplies, is being severely hampered due to Israeli restrictions and growing insecurity in the region. Key Developments: ICC Arrest Warrants: The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant. The charges include war crimes and crimes against humanity, particularly the alleged use of starvation as a method of warfare. Humanitarian Crisis: The UN and the World Health Organization (WHO) have expressed grave concerns about the deteriorating conditions, especially in northern Gaza. Israeli military operations in Jabalia and Beit Lahia have caused mass casualties and displacement. International Reactions: While some leaders, including US President Joe Biden, criticized the ICC’s warrants, others, like Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris, supported legal accountability. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban offered a contrasting stance, inviting Netanyahu to visit in defiance of the ICC. Escalation Beyond Gaza: The conflict has spilled over into Lebanon, with Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds. Clashes have resulted in significant casualties, with the Lebanese health ministry reporting over 3,580 deaths since late September. The war, which began after Hamas’s deadly attack on October 7, 2023, has claimed tens of thousands of lives in Gaza, with the majority being civilians, according to the Gaza health ministry. Meanwhile, calls for a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access continue to grow from the international community. Source: NDTV Photo Credit: NDTV

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