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Delhi Government Reopens SCERT-Led Online Training Programmes for Teachers

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

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

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

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

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

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Meghalaya Makes Khasi and Garo Mandatory in Foundational Education to Strengthen Cultural Roots

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The Meghalaya government has rolled out a new foundational-stage curriculum that makes Khasi and Garo compulsory for children up to Class 1, aiming to simplify early learning while strengthening students’ connection with local culture and heritage. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the initiative is designed to instil confidence and a strong sense of identity among children from their formative years. Emphasising the importance of mother-tongue education, he noted that early exposure to indigenous languages helps children develop a deeper sense of belonging. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by him on Friday. According to officials, the newly developed textbooks will be introduced on an optional basis in the upcoming academic year, as many schools have already finalised their syllabi. The curriculum will become mandatory from the following academic session. The revised foundational curriculum, spanning preschool to Class 1, places emphasis on ease of learning, value-based education, and an early introduction to Meghalaya’s history, culture, and traditions. In addition to education reforms, the cabinet approved a revised pay structure for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and ad hoc teachers, addressing a long-standing demand. The chief minister termed the move a recognition of their vital role and a step towards ensuring greater stability within the education system. The cabinet also cleared a five-year Mission Mode HIV/AIDS project with a budget allocation of ₹25 crore, focusing on awareness generation, infrastructure strengthening, and targeted interventions across the state. Other key decisions included amendments to the Meghalaya Building Bye Laws, 2021, making green building certification mandatory for large-scale constructions. Former Meghalaya High Court Chief Justice S. Vaidyanathan was appointed as the chairperson of the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission. Further, the cabinet approved the formation of the Meghalaya Livelihoods and Investment Financing Cooperative Society Ltd to support cooperative societies, agriculture, and food processing sectors through working capital and investment assistance. Approval was also granted for the creation of a National Games Secretariat Society to oversee preparations for the 39th National Games. Source: PTI

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Jamia Millia Islamia Opens Applications for Short-Term AI and Digital Skill Courses

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Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) has announced the launch of a fresh batch of short-term, skill-oriented certificate courses focused on artificial intelligence, cyber security, and digital technologies. Applications are now open for the offline programmes, which aim to strengthen employability and entrepreneurial capabilities among students, job seekers, and aspiring entrepreneurs. The courses are being offered through the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) at JMI, in partnership with the Tech Mahindra Foundation. Delivered under the Smart Academy for Digital Technologies and Entrepreneurship, the programmes are designed to equip learners with practical, industry-relevant digital skills and a foundation in entrepreneurship. According to the university, the Smart Academy follows a blended approach that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. Participants will receive mentoring from subject experts and gain exposure to real-world industry practices, enabling them to pursue roles in the digital economy or explore self-employment and startup opportunities. The newly introduced short-term courses include Digital Entrepreneurship, UI/UX Design, Advanced Digital Marketing, and AI-Driven Data Analysis. Each programme runs for a duration of three months and is open to candidates who have completed Class 12 or an equivalent qualification. In terms of fees, the Digital Entrepreneurship course is priced at Rs 3,050, while the UI/UX Design programme costs Rs 12,600. The Advanced Digital Marketing and AI-Driven Data Analysis courses are each available at a fee of Rs 10,500. JMI stated that the initiative is aligned with its broader objective of promoting innovation, skill development, and self-reliance, while preparing learners for opportunities in digital media, design, data analytics, and technology-driven services within India’s expanding digital and startup ecosystem. Source: Indian Express

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India Adds Over 77,000 Medical Seats in Six Years to Strengthen Healthcare Workforce

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India has significantly expanded its medical education capacity over the past six years, adding 48,563 undergraduate (MBBS) seats and 29,080 postgraduate (MD/MS) seats between the 2020–21 and 2025–26 academic years, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare informed the Rajya Sabha. In a written response to an unstarred question, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel said the expansion was carried out based on recommendations from the National Medical Commission (NMC), with a focus on addressing doctor shortages, particularly in underserved and remote regions. Data presented in Parliament shows a consistent year-on-year rise in MBBS seats, beginning with 2,963 additions in 2020–21. This was followed by 8,790 seats in 2021–22, 7,398 in 2022–23, 9,652 in 2023–24, and 8,641 in 2024–25. The largest annual increase came in 2025–26, with 11,119 new MBBS seats, taking the six-year total to 48,563. Postgraduate medical education also witnessed steady growth. PG seats increased by 4,983 in 2020–21 and 4,705 in 2021–22, before adding 2,874 seats in 2022–23. The momentum picked up again with 4,713 seats in 2023–24 and 4,186 in 2024–25. The highest single-year rise of 7,619 PG seats was recorded in 2025–26, bringing the cumulative increase to 29,080 seats. In addition, the Centre has approved the creation of 10,023 more medical seats under centrally sponsored schemes in government medical colleges between 2025–26 and 2028–29, further boosting capacity. The ministry said the expanded intake has contributed to improving the doctor-to-population ratio across several states, including Rajasthan, while also making medical education more accessible to Indian students and reducing the need to study abroad.   To address concerns over quality, the government noted that the NMC has implemented robust regulatory measures, such as the Minimum Standards Requirements, Graduate Medical Education Regulations 2023, Maintenance of Standards of Medical Education Regulations 2023, and the Competency-Based Medical Education Curriculum Guidelines 2024, to ensure academic and clinical standards are maintained despite rapid expansion. Source: Indian Express  

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Gujarat CM Disburses ₹370 Crore in Scholarships to Over 13 Lakh Students via DBT

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Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the transfer of more than ₹370 crore in scholarship assistance to over 13 lakh students through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in Gandhinagar. The financial support was provided under four key state education schemes—Namo Lakshmi Yojana, Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana, Mukhyamantri Gyan Sadhana Merit Scholarship Yojana, and Mukhyamantri Gyan Setu Merit Scholarship Yojana. The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, Education Minister Pradyuman Vaja, and Minister of State for Education Rivabaa Jadeja. Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Patel highlighted the significant progress Gujarat’s education sector has made over the last two-and-a-half decades under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said the vision of providing uninterrupted access to education from kindergarten to postgraduate level is steadily being realised. Special emphasis, he added, has been placed on girls’ education through initiatives like Namo Lakshmi Yojana and Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana, aimed at ensuring continued participation of girls in secondary and higher secondary education. Recalling Prime Minister Modi’s tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister from 2001, Patel said his hands-on efforts—such as personally visiting villages to promote girls’ education and auctioning gifts received during his tenure to fund educational initiatives—set new standards nationwide. These efforts, combined with programmes like Shala Praveshotsav and Kanya Kelavani Mahotsav, helped reduce the girls’ dropout rate from 37 percent to less than two percent. The Chief Minister also outlined the expansion of educational infrastructure in the state. Village schools offering science streams have increased to 2,834, while the number of colleges has grown from 775 in 2001 to over 3,200 today. Engineering colleges have risen from 139 to 288, and medical seats have expanded from 1,175 to more than 7,000. Additionally, over 24,000 girls pursuing medical education have benefited from the Mukhyamantri Kanya Kelavani Nidhi Yojana. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said the ₹370 crore disbursed on the day forms part of a larger commitment, with the state having provided more than ₹1,332 crore in assistance to over 13.5 lakh students so far. Congratulating the Chief Minister on completing three years of his second term, he praised his people-centric leadership and strong focus on education. Sanghavi noted that the Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana was launched to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent students from opting for the science stream, especially as Gujarat continues to attract major industrial investments. Education Minister Pradyuman Vaja stated that Gujarat’s investment in education is aimed at building a strong foundation for a Viksit Gujarat and a Viksit Bharat. He said these schemes are opening new opportunities and aspirations for students across the state. Sharing scheme-wise details, he said the Namo Lakshmi Yojana has so far disbursed ₹1,033 crore to 10.49 lakh girls, leading to a 73 percent increase in attendance and a 13.59 percent rise in enrolment in Class 12. Under the Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana, ₹151.84 crore has been provided to 1.5 lakh students, resulting in a 6.34 percent increase in science stream enrolment. The Mukhyamantri Gyan Sadhana Merit Scholarship Yojana has extended ₹86.14 crore to 50,000 students, while the Mukhyamantri Gyan Setu Merit Scholarship Yojana has provided ₹61.27 crore to 60,000 students, promoting merit-based and quality education. Minister of State for Education Rivabaa Jadeja described the programme as a landmark moment, reaffirming that education remains the most effective tool for social transformation. She said the state government is committed to ensuring quality education, strengthening infrastructure, promoting girls’ education, reducing dropout rates, and supporting the holistic development of students to prepare them for a brighter future. Source: PTI

Gujarat CM Disburses ₹370 Crore in Scholarships to Over 13 Lakh Students via DBT Read More »

Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 Registration Begins: Chance to Meet PM Modi in January; Website and Key Dates

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The Ministry of Education has opened registrations for the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC), the Prime Minister’s annual interaction with students, parents and teachers on tackling exam pressure and preparing effectively. The 2026 edition will take place in January, and applications can be submitted online until January 11, 2026. What is Pariksha Pe Charcha? Pariksha Pe Charcha is a core component of the government’s ‘Exam Warriors’ movement, aimed at easing exam stress and encouraging healthy, confident learning habits. The programme allows students, educators and parents from across India to engage directly with the Prime Minister on issues such as exam anxiety, time management, mental wellness and preparation strategies for board and competitive exams. It also serves as a nationwide guidance platform, fostering a positive mindset toward examinations. Registration Details for PPC 2026 Registration for PPC 2026 is live on the MyGov Innovate portal. Last date to apply: January 11, 2026 Eligible participants include: — Students of Classes 6–12 — Teachers from recognised institutions — Parents or guardians of school students How to Register for Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 Visit the official PPC 2026 page on MyGov Innovate: innovateindia1.mygov.in/ppc-2026 Click on ‘Participate Now’ Select your category (Student/Teacher/Parent) Log in or create a MyGov account using email or mobile number Complete the quiz/activity assigned to your category Fill out the registration form and submit your entry Students may also upload a question for the Prime Minister to answer during the event PPC Login: Accessing Your Dashboard Participants can log in to the MyGov portal to: — View their submissions — Track quiz/activity status — Download participation certificates — Receive updates on shortlisting and event information Submitting a Question to PM Modi: Guidelines Students can submit original, concise questions that follow the rules: — Format: Clear and relevant — Word limit: Around 500 characters — Languages: English or any Indian language available on MyGov Creative and meaningful questions may be featured during the live interaction. Important Dates & What’s Next? — Registration ends: January 11, 2026 — Event: January 2026 (exact date to be announced) After submission, entries go through a screening process. Selected students, parents and teachers may be invited to attend the event or associated activities. Digital participation certificates will be available through MyGov. PPC 2025 witnessed 3.53 crore valid registrations, reflecting growing nationwide engagement. Source: Indian Express

Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 Registration Begins: Chance to Meet PM Modi in January; Website and Key Dates Read More »

Karnataka to Set Up House Panel to Ease Rules for Private School Recognition

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The Karnataka government has decided to establish a House committee to review and recommend relaxations to the rules governing the initial recognition and renewal of private aided and unaided schools. School Education and Literacy Minister S. Madhu Bangarappa announced the move in the Legislative Council after members highlighted the challenges faced by institutions due to stringent regulations. He said the committee would study the issue in depth and submit a report, based on which the government will take a final call. Bangarappa assured that no private school would face difficulties during the interim period before the committee is formed and its recommendations implemented. Responding to allegations that some officials were demanding bribes for renewing school recognition, the minister acknowledged that efforts to shift the process online had not been fully successful. He warned that strict disciplinary action would be taken against any officials found engaging in corruption. Council members urged the government to act swiftly, citing widespread malpractice and stressing the need to immediately relax the rules and set up the House committee. Source: PTI  

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IIT Roorkee Releases JEE Advanced 2026 Eligibility Rules; Exam Scheduled for May 17

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IIT Roorkee has officially announced the eligibility criteria and key dates for JEE Advanced 2026. Only the top 2,50,000 performers from the JEE Main 2026 BE/BTech paper will qualify, based on a fixed category-wise distribution. The exam will be conducted on Sunday, May 17, 2026. Under Criterion A1, candidates must rank within the top 2.5 lakh across categories: 40.5% OPEN, 10% GEN-EWS, 27% OBC-NCL, 15% SC and 7.5% ST, with an additional 5% PwD horizontal reservation in each group. IIT Roorkee noted that totals may slightly exceed 2.5 lakh if ranks are tied. Foreign national categories OCI/PIO (I) will be treated strictly under OPEN, without access to reservation benefits except PwD where applicable. Age limits require candidates to be born on or after October 1, 2001, with a five-year relaxation for SC/ST/PwD. Candidates may attempt JEE Advanced only twice in two consecutive years. For Class XII eligibility, students must have appeared for the first time in 2025 or 2026 with PCM as compulsory subjects. IIT Roorkee clarified that any declared board result—regardless of exam mode—counts as an appearance. Students who appeared in 2024 or earlier are ineligible, except for the special case where boards released results for the 2023–24 session on or after June 18, 2024, making those candidates eligible. Source: Indian Express

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