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Union Budget 2025: Reactions from Education Leaders on Key Announcements

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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

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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

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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

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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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West Bengal Activates Central Referral System in Five Kolkata Medical Colleges to Streamline Patient Transfers

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The West Bengal government has initiated a central referral system across five prominent medical colleges in Kolkata. This development follows recent demands from junior doctors and healthcare staff who have advocated for improved safety and operational protocols in the wake of tragic incidents affecting healthcare professionals. Alongside this system, a digital bed vacancy monitor has been introduced at the NRS Medical College and Hospital, providing real-time information on bed availability in each department. According to a senior official from the state health department, the newly activated central referral system is designed to facilitate smoother and quicker transfers of patients requiring advanced care from rural hospitals to the city’s medical colleges. By enabling district hospitals to reserve a bed in Kolkata-based establishments before referring patients, the system aims to reduce the uncertainty and delay often experienced in patient transfers. The central referral system is now operational in five key healthcare institutions in Kolkata: Calcutta Medical College and Hospital, SSKM Hospital, RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, NRS Medical College and Hospital, and National Medical College. These facilities have started responding to requests from district hospitals in rural West Bengal, marking the beginning of a more organized and transparent process. Key Features of the Central Referral System The core of the central referral system lies in its digital framework, which connects rural and district hospitals with city-based medical colleges through an online portal. Hospitals in rural areas can now make a formal bed request on behalf of patients needing higher-level medical support, particularly in complex cases where specialized treatments are necessary. Once a request is received, the medical colleges in Kolkata will promptly update their bed availability status, allowing rural hospitals to receive immediate confirmation on whether the patient can be accommodated. This enables faster and more efficient patient transport from rural facilities to Kolkata, thereby reducing critical time loss in emergency situations. An official from the health department remarked, “The central referral system was activated today in the five major medical colleges in Kolkata. Complete implementation will take a few more days to fully optimize the process.” He further highlighted that the referral system would soon be extended to additional healthcare facilities across the state, making it possible for more hospitals to link directly with Kolkata’s primary medical institutions. Digital Bed Vacancy Monitor to Increase Transparency To complement the referral system, a digital bed vacancy monitor has been introduced at NRS Medical College and Hospital, one of Kolkata’s busiest healthcare facilities. This digital monitor provides a real-time display of bed occupancy, showing the current number of beds available across different departments. Families and patients will be able to view these updates on screens located within the hospital, reducing confusion and ensuring that those in need are informed of availability as they arrive. “This digital monitor will offer transparent and accurate data, keeping families and referring hospitals well-informed,” the health official added. The display board at NRS Medical College and Hospital is set to show real-time bed occupancy across departments, providing essential information to both healthcare providers and the public. This system is expected to alleviate the long-standing issue of patients and families being turned away or directed to other facilities due to bed shortages without proper information. Healthcare Reforms in Response to Junior Doctors’ Demands The implementation of these systems comes in response to recent protests and demands from junior doctors who have called for improvements in healthcare infrastructure and staff safety protocols. Following the tragic assault on a medical professional at RG Kar Medical College, the need for reform has been amplified, with doctors and healthcare workers urging for better safeguards and resources. The government’s swift action in implementing these systems reflects a commitment to improving both safety and efficiency within the state’s healthcare framework. Looking Forward: Statewide Implementation While the central referral system and digital bed monitor have initially been activated in Kolkata, plans are underway to extend these initiatives throughout West Bengal. The state health department is working on integrating more hospitals into the system, with the goal of building a seamless network that covers not only Kolkata but also rural areas across the state. By creating a unified platform for bed availability and patient transfer, the government aims to make healthcare services more accessible to residents in every district. The activation of these systems represents a forward-thinking approach in West Bengal’s healthcare landscape, prioritizing patient care and operational transparency. As more hospitals join the network, the state anticipates a significant reduction in patient transfer delays and an increase in the efficient use of healthcare resources, contributing to better outcomes for patients and a more organized system for healthcare professionals. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit : Business Standard

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Ratan Tata, Visionary Leader and Philanthropist, Passes Away at 86

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Ratan Tata, the esteemed former chairman of the Tata Group and one of India’s most beloved business icons, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86. Tata had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai for age-related health conditions, including blood pressure complications. Despite rumors about his deteriorating health over the past week, his passing has left the nation mourning a towering figure in Indian industry and philanthropy. Known for his leadership and integrity, Ratan Tata transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse after taking over as chairman in 1991. Under his guidance, the group made bold international acquisitions, including Tetley, Jaguar Land Rover, and Corus Steel, firmly establishing India’s presence in the global business landscape. His leadership not only expanded the Tata Group but also brought international attention to India’s economic potential. Beyond business, Tata was deeply committed to philanthropy, contributing to education, healthcare, and rural development through the Tata Trusts. His quiet demeanor and humility endeared him to millions. Despite his immense success, he led a modest life, avoiding the lavish lifestyle associated with billionaires. Tata received numerous honors throughout his life, including India’s highest civilian awards, the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008. His philanthropic efforts and contributions to society earned him further accolades, including the Assam Baibhav in 2021 for advancing cancer care in Assam. Prime Minister of India shared condolence over the loss saying “My mind is filled with countless interactions with Shri Ratan Tata Ji. I would meet him frequently in Gujarat when I was the CM. We would exchange views on diverse issues. I found his perspectives very enriching. These interactions continued when I came to Delhi. Extremely pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family, friends and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti.” Alongside, President of India has tweeted a message saying “In the sad demise of Shri Ratan Tata, India has lost an icon who blended corporate growth with nation building, and excellence with ethics. A recipient of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan, he took forward the great Tata legacy and gave it a more impressive global presence. He inspired seasoned professionals and young students alike. His contribution to philanthropy and charity is invaluable. I convey my condolences to his family, the entire team of the Tata Group and his admirers across the globe.” As the nation mourns his passing, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his condolences, calling him a “Titan of the Indian industry” and a visionary who left an indelible mark on India’s economy and society. Ratan Tata’s legacy as a business leader and philanthropist will continue to inspire generations to come. The country unites in grief, with heartfelt tributes and condolences flooding in from across the spectrum – business tycoons, political dignitaries, and ordinary citizens alike – to celebrate the extraordinary life and achievements of Shri Ratan Tata. India has lost a giant, a visionary who redefined modern India’s path. Ratan Tata wasn’t just a business leader – he embodied the spirit of India with integrity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to the greater good. Legends like him never fade away. Om Shanti 🙏 pic.twitter.com/mANuvwX8wV — Gautam Adani (@gautam_adani) October 9, 2024 It is a very sad day for India and India Inc. Ratan Tata’s passing away is a big loss, not just to the Tata Group, but to every Indian. At a personal level, the passing of Ratan Tata has filled me with immense grief as I lost a dear friend. Each of my numerous interactions with… — Reliance Industries Limited (@RIL_Updates) October 9, 2024 My last meeting with Ratan Tata at Google, we talked about the progress of Waymo and his vision was inspiring to hear. He leaves an extraordinary business and philanthropic legacy and was instrumental in mentoring and developing the modern business leadership in India. He deeply… — Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) October 9, 2024 Ratan Tata: the man who made India proud. His legacy remains in posterity. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/Sk414lTjKW — Uday Kotak (@udaykotak) October 9, 2024 I am unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata. India’s economy stands on the cusp of a historic leap forward. And Ratan’s life and work have had much to do with our being in this position. Hence, his mentorship and guidance at this point in time would have been invaluable.… pic.twitter.com/ujJC2ehTTs — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) October 9, 2024 Deeply saddened by the demise of legendary industrialist and true nationalist, Shri Ratan Tata Ji. He selflessly dedicated his life to the development of our nation. Every time I met him, his zeal and commitment to the betterment of Bharat and its people amazed me. His commitment… pic.twitter.com/TJOp8skXCo — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) October 9, 2024 The passing away of Ratan Tata is the end of an era. He was deeply associated with the modernisation of Indian industry. And even more so with its globalisation. Was my privilege to have interacted with him on numerous occasions. And benefitted from his vision and insights.… — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 10, 2024 I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Ratan Tata Ji, a proud son of the nation. Over three decades, I was privileged to have a deeply personal and close family relationship with him, where I witnessed his humility, simplicity, and genuine respect for everyone, regardless of… — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) October 9, 2024

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AI Governance Market Set to Surge to $5.8 Billion by 2029, Driven by Compliance and Ethical Demands

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The AI Governance Market is poised for remarkable growth, expected to rise from $890.6 million in 2024 to an impressive $5,776.0 million by 2029, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 45.3%. This surge is largely attributed to increasing regulatory pressures and the growing demand for compliance as governments worldwide implement stricter regulations regarding artificial intelligence (AI) systems. One notable example is the European Union’s AI Act, which mandates risk assessments and compliance audits for AI systems, especially in high-stakes sectors like healthcare and finance. This heightened scrutiny has prompted organizations to adopt comprehensive governance frameworks, as failure to comply could lead to significant reputational damage. The recent controversy surrounding OpenAI’s GPT models, which raised concerns over misinformation and bias, underscores the critical need for robust AI oversight. Additionally, Amazon’s withdrawal of its biased AI recruiting tool serves as a stark reminder of the financial and reputational risks associated with unregulated AI systems. As AI adoption accelerates across heavily regulated industries, particularly in Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) and healthcare, the need for effective AI governance tools becomes more pronounced. Companies in these sectors face immense pressure to adhere to evolving regulations, prompting them to seek out governance solutions that ensure compliance. Data Governance Tools Lead the Charge In terms of product type, data governance tools are projected to capture the largest market share in 2024, thanks to their robust capabilities in data provenance and lineage. These tools enable organizations to monitor data quality and track potential biases within training datasets, ensuring that AI systems do not produce biased or unfair outcomes. For instance, data governance tools can implement profiling techniques to assess fairness and establish data lineage, addressing any issues in data sourcing. The increasing regulatory requirements for documentation, tracking, and record-keeping of the data used in AI systems have further amplified the significance of data governance. These tools play a vital role in compliance, offering traceability and accuracy that organizations require to implement responsible AI practices. Rise of Ethical AI The demand for ethical AI usage, especially in machine learning (ML) platforms and generative AI models, is propelling software and technology providers to become the fastest-growing end-user segment in the AI Governance Market. As these providers rapidly adopt governance tools to ensure the trustworthiness and ethical integrity of their AI systems, the regulatory scrutiny intensifies. Major players in the industry, such as Microsoft and Google, are establishing internal ethical frameworks to uphold strong ethical standards across their AI offerings. Stakeholders increasingly expect technology companies to develop AI responsibly, making it imperative for businesses to integrate ethical practices and compliance measures to sustain brand trust and growth. North America Leads the Market North America is set to hold the largest share of the AI Governance Market in 2024, driven by a robust regulatory environment and significant investments in responsible AI deployment. Federal funding for AI governance in the region exceeded $1 billion in 2023, indicating a growing commitment to responsible AI research and implementation. Industries under strict regulations, such as healthcare and banking, are at the forefront of governance adoption, with 45% of healthcare providers citing regulatory compliance as a crucial business requirement. Many businesses anticipate even stricter AI regulations in the coming years, with 62% highlighting data privacy compliance as a key driver for governance implementation. Furthermore, consumer trust plays a pivotal role; 78% of American consumers prefer brands that employ ethical AI practices. Organizations are increasingly prioritizing fairness in their AI systems, turning to tools like IBM’s AI Fairness 360 to mitigate bias, with 56% of companies taking such measures. Financial institutions, in particular, are focusing on risk management, prioritizing governance to address AI-related challenges. Key Players in the Market The AI Governance Market features significant players, including Microsoft, IBM, SAS Institute, DataRobot, and Dataiku, alongside innovative SMEs and startups like Fiddler AI, 2021.AI, Monitaur, Credo AI, and Fairly AI. These organizations are shaping the future of AI governance, ensuring that ethical practices and compliance measures become integral to AI development. As the AI Governance Market continues to expand, organizations that embrace robust governance frameworks will be well-positioned to navigate the complex regulatory landscape and leverage the full potential of AI technologies. The increasing focus on ethical AI and compliance will drive innovation and ensure that AI systems remain trustworthy and effective in addressing real-world challenges.  

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Developed India Needs Civil Governance Reforms for Inclusive Growth by 2047

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Achieving a developed India by 2047 requires significant reforms in civil governance to foster inclusivity, ensuring that every citizen can realize their full potential. A focus on double-digit growth to boost per capita income and enhancing human capital is essential, especially as half of the population is projected to live in urban areas over the next decade. Institutional flexibility and autonomy must be introduced in areas such as education, health, and nutrition. Civil governance reforms need to prioritize the bottom quintile of income earners, skilling, green growth, and urban living standards. To ensure effectiveness, decentralizing community action under the leadership of gram panchayats and urban local bodies is vital, with a strong role for women’s collectives in monitoring progress. The need for institutional flexibility, transparency in standard setting, city-wide planning, and capacity development is critical. A right to public services with guaranteed compliance, along with community-led action, will complement these changes. Furthermore, convergence across sectors such as education, health, nutrition, and employment is vital, as improvements in one sector often lead to benefits in others. To ensure accountability, data on public service performance, validated by local governments, should be made publicly available. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework can serve as a measure for governance success, with processes like the Mission Antyodaya Survey providing data on progress at the local level. Innovations in human resource engagement, performance-based assessments, and longer tenures for development functionaries are essential for sustained improvements in human development. Ultimately, evidence-based governance driven by community-led planning, transparent beneficiary selection, and conviction-based leadership is the key to realizing an inclusive and developed India by 2047.

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GOAT Box Office Day 1: Vijay’s Film Earns Rs 55 Crore, Sets New Record as Biggest Tamil Opener

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Thalapathy Vijay’s highly anticipated film The GOAT has shattered records at the Tamil box office, earning an estimated Rs 55 crore on its opening day across India. This impressive figure marks the film as the biggest Tamil opener, surpassing all expectations. The GOAT becomes the third Vijay film and the fifth overall from Kollywood to cross the Rs 50 crore threshold on its opening day. In Tamil Nadu alone, the film grossed over Rs 30 crore, with final numbers expected to be between Rs 32-35 crore, according to early reports. This puts The GOAT in line with Vijay’s other massive openers, such as Sarkar, Beast, and Leo, all of which have crossed the Rs 30 crore mark. It remains to be seen if The GOAT can break the first-day record held by Beast at Rs 35 crore as official figures are confirmed. The GOAT’s strong debut has dethroned Kamal Haasan’s Indian 2 as the biggest Tamil film opener of 2024, which previously held the record with Rs 26 crore net earnings in India. The film’s success further cements Vijay’s dominance at the Tamil Nadu box office, driven by his star power alone, as it lacks a popular IP or standout musical score to boost its appeal. Outside Tamil Nadu, the film also saw significant success, grossing over Rs 9 crore in Karnataka and Rs 6 crore in Kerala. However, it received a lukewarm response in the Telugu states, with analysts attributing the lower numbers to the film’s music, which may not have resonated as strongly with audiences in those regions. Despite mixed reviews, including a 2.5/5 rating from News18 Showsha, which criticized the film for lacking depth and character development, The GOAT’s record-breaking debut highlights Vijay’s unmatched box office pull, solidifying his title as the “Greatest of All Time” in Tamil cinema.    

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Heatstroke Took 374 Lives, Over 67,000 Cases Till July 27: Health Ministry

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India has reported 374 deaths and 67,637 cases of suspected heatstroke from March 1 to July 27 this year, according to Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel. The alarming figures were disclosed in the Lok Sabha on Friday. The latest data reveals a significant increase from the earlier estimates provided by the Ministry of Health, which reported 110 deaths and 42,000 cases by June 18. The majority of these incidents occurred in rural areas, where strenuous outdoor work associated with agriculture and poor health infrastructure exacerbated the impact of the heatwave. Uttar Pradesh was the worst-hit state, recording 52 deaths. Bihar followed with 37 fatalities, while Odisha and Delhi reported 26 and 25 deaths respectively. These statistics were compiled under the National Heat-Related Illness and Death Surveillance by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Government Response and Measures The Integrated Health Information Portal has been receiving data on heatstroke cases and deaths from States and Union Territories since 2023, as noted by Minister Patel. State and UT health departments get yearly warnings from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) to put awareness, readiness, and response plans into place. The Union Health Ministry’s Secretary communicated with the chief secretaries of all states and UTs on February 29 in order to release this year’s advise. The warning included steps to improve community awareness of heat-related diseases and to bolster health sector readiness. Record-Breaking Temperatures and Weather Anomalies With a blistering 47 degrees Celsius, June 2024 witnessed the hottest temperature recorded in the month in a decade. The hottest temperatures ever recorded in June 2023 were 41.8 degrees Celsius, 44.2 degrees Celsius in 2022, and 43 degrees Celsius in 2021. This is a considerable rise above the prior records. Furthermore, July was the second warmest month overall in India since 1901 and the highest nighttime temperature ever recorded in the country. Significant flooding resulted from the abnormally high rains that followed the record temperatures in various states, including Gujarat, Kerala, and Uttar Pradesh. It was the hottest July on record for both mean and lowest temperatures in the east and northeast of India. The terrible heatwave has made it clear how urgently better infrastructure and readiness are needed to deal with extreme weather, especially in rural regions. The growing frequency and intensity of these occurrences highlight the significance of long-term policies to address climate change and its implications on public health, even if the government’s preemptive actions and advisories play a key role in lessening the impact of such heatwaves. Reference taken from the Hindu

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