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India Needs Unified Policy Push to Build USD 100 Billion Creative Economy by 2030: CII

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

India must adopt a cohesive, well-coordinated policy framework to transform its creative sector into a USD 100 billion economic powerhouse by 2030, according to the CII’s India’s M&E Sector Report, unveiled at the 12th CII Big Picture Summit 2025 in Mumbai. The report projects that such a unified policy push could significantly boost the Media & Entertainment (M&E) industry’s GDP contribution while creating over five million new jobs. While the global M&E industry is expected to touch USD 3.5 trillion by 2029 with a 3.7% CAGR, India’s sector is poised for much stronger expansion at 9.8% CAGR, nearly 2.6 times the global rate. However, India still accounts for only 2% of the global media market, and its creative economy contributes merely 1% to the country’s GDP. To unlock full growth potential, the report calls for structural reforms, beginning with unified, modern regulation to replace the current fragmented, medium-specific laws that lead to inconsistent standards and compliance complexity. Such harmonisation, CII says, would support innovation, strengthen IP protection, and help India lead in fast-rising segments like gaming, streaming, and digital media. The report identifies infrastructure gaps as a major barrier to growth. Limited film studios, production facilities, and advanced tech infrastructure have led to capital flight and lost employment opportunities. CII recommends greater investment in top-tier production hubs, widespread 5G rollout, and technology integration to improve content creation and accessibility across India. Entrepreneurship challenges also need attention. The report advocates for a single-window digital clearance system, stronger anti-piracy enforcement, and simplified processes to improve business ease and attract global investments. Despite India’s rising global visibility in storytelling, the country’s media exports remain relatively low. CII suggests establishing dedicated export funds and streamlined export mechanisms to help Indian creators scale internationally and boost cultural impact. Talent shortages—particularly in animation, VFX, and digital media—pose another significant obstacle. The report recommends internationally aligned training standards and deeper collaboration between industry and academia to build a future-ready workforce. It concludes that a comprehensive National Media & Entertainment Policy, modeled on the National AVGC-XR Policy, could offer much-needed clarity and direction to navigate the industry’s rapid technological transformation. Source: ANI

India Needs Unified Policy Push to Build USD 100 Billion Creative Economy by 2030: CII Read More »

NMC–ICMR to Roll Out PhD Programmes to Strengthen India’s Clinical Research and Medical Innovation

/ Health & Wellness Community

The National Medical Commission (NMC), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), is set to introduce new PhD programmes and intensify clinical research efforts to boost indigenous innovation in medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Announcing the initiative at the 3rd convocation of Bhaikaka University in Karamsad, Anand, NMC chairman Dr. Abhijat Sheth said the move aims to fortify India’s medical research landscape and encourage innovation-led healthcare advancements. He also shared that 18,000 additional medical seats have been approved nationwide, with parallel initiatives to expand faculty capacity and ensure equitable, high-quality medical education. Highlighting the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), Dr. Sheth emphasised the urgent need for preventive healthcare, self-care practices and the ATCOM module on professionalism as part of the commission’s updated training framework. Citing lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic, he stressed the importance of preparing future medical professionals for public health emergencies. At the convocation, 496 students from undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD programmes received their degrees, while 10 students were honoured with gold medals for academic excellence. The ceremony was attended by BU president Dr. Gauri Trivedi, provost Dr. Abhay Dharamsi, and other officials. It also featured the 20th H M Patel Memorial Lecture, delivered by paediatrician and public health specialist Dr. Pravitra Mohan, who spoke on “Equitable Healthcare in India: Leading the Change.” Source: TNN

NMC–ICMR to Roll Out PhD Programmes to Strengthen India’s Clinical Research and Medical Innovation Read More »

Uranium detected in Delhi’s groundwater: New report sparks major public-health alarm

/ Health & Wellness Community

A new assessment of Delhi’s groundwater has revealed a worrying rise in uranium contamination, placing the national capital among the top three affected regions in India after Punjab and Haryana. The Annual Ground Water Quality Report 2025 released by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) shows that 13–15% of the city’s water samples now contain uranium levels exceeding the permissible limit of 30 ppb, raising red flags over drinking-water safety and long-term health implications, according to a Times of India report. Rising uranium levels: What the latest findings reveal The new report highlights a steady and concerning upward trend in uranium presence across Delhi: In 2020, uranium levels above the safe threshold were detected in 11.7% of samples, including a particularly alarming reading of 89.4 ppb from a tubewell in the North West district. By 2024, six districts — North, North West, South, South East, South West, and West — had consistently reported samples with unsafe uranium levels, contributing to a citywide contamination share of 10.7%. The 2025 assessment now indicates an even higher percentage of unsafe samples, signalling worsening groundwater conditions. Two localities — Auchandi in Narela (42 ppb) and Nizampur in Kanjhawala (46.5 ppb) — have been identified as emerging hotspots. Environmental groups demand data transparency and action The findings have prompted several environmental organisations to push for public disclosure of water-quality records and enforcement of treatment protocols. The group Earth Warrior, in a letter to the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister, warned that uranium contamination is occurring alongside high nitrate, fluoride, and salinity levels, creating a hazardous mix of pollutants. The group also highlighted systemic dependence on groundwater: The Delhi Jal Board operates around 5,500 tubewells that collectively supply nearly 450 million litres per day (mld) of semi-treated or untreated water to the public—making the situation even more urgent. National context: Uranium contamination rising post-monsoon Across India, CGWB analysed 3,754 groundwater samples during pre- and post-monsoon periods in 2024. Uranium above the safe limit was found in: 6.71% of pre-monsoon samples 7.91% of post-monsoon samples This slight increase after monsoon rains indicates that hydrogeochemical changes and leaching processes may be intensifying contamination. Punjab remains the most affected state, followed by Haryana and Delhi. Health hazards linked to uranium in drinking water The report underscores the severe health impacts of consuming water contaminated with uranium — a substance that is both a heavy metal and a radioactive element. Its major harm stems from chemical toxicity rather than radiation. Long-term exposure can lead to: 1. Kidney damage (most common) Uranium is known to accumulate in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and potentially causing chronic kidney disease. 2. Bone and skeletal disorders The metal can settle in bones, contributing to weakness, deformities, and long-term skeletal changes. 3. Neurological complications Research indicates possible effects on memory, behavioral functions, cognitive clarity, and the nervous system after prolonged exposure. 4. Increased cancer risk While natural uranium emits low radiation, extended consumption may slightly elevate the risk of certain cancers. 5. Higher vulnerability in children Infants and young children are at greater risk. Exposure can harm bone development, growth patterns, and cognitive functions. 6. Digestive and general health issues High concentrations may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach irritation, and may interfere with liver function and blood chemistry. Additional groundwater concerns: Salinity and agricultural impact Beyond uranium, Delhi faces a significant problem with salinity. The report notes that the city recorded a sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) of 179.8, placing it among the highest in India. This means: 1.11% of areas now have groundwater unfit for irrigation 7.23% show excess salinity or high electrical conductivity Such conditions degrade soil quality, reduce farm productivity, and enable toxic elements to build up in crops—posing further risks to public health. CGWB response and the way forward The CGWB has stated that it issues bi-weekly alerts to state agencies about groundwater quality variations to support timely mitigation and raise public awareness. Experts now emphasize the need for: Comprehensive mapping of uranium-prone zones Transparent disclosure of real-time water-quality data Expansion of water-treatment infrastructure Reduction of groundwater dependency through surface-water alternatives Stronger policy interventions to prevent further aquifer degradation With Delhi’s reliance on groundwater continuing to grow, the rising uranium presence signals a looming water-safety crisis that demands urgent scientific, administrative, and public-health action. Source: TOI & Economic Times

Uranium detected in Delhi’s groundwater: New report sparks major public-health alarm Read More »

IIM Indore releases PGP 2026–28 admission criteria; increases weightage for Class 12 scores and PI

/ Education Community

The Indian Institute of Management Indore has announced the admission policy for its flagship two-year PGP programme for the 2026–28 cohort, introducing notable shifts in evaluation weightages. The institute will continue with its three-tier selection system, factoring in CAT 2025 performance, academic records from Classes 10 and 12, work experience, and scores in the personal interview (PI). To be considered, applicants must appear for CAT 2025 and clear both the sectional and overall percentile benchmarks. For General and EWS candidates, the minimum overall requirement is 90 percentile, with 80 percentile in each section. The cut-off is 80 percentile for NC-OBC, and 60, 45 and 45 percentile for SC, ST and PwD applicants, respectively. At the shortlisting stage, Class 12 marks remain a major determinant, carrying 25% weightage, while Class 10 marks contribute 10%. CAT sectional scores make up 55% of the composite score, with 3% allotted for work experience and 7 marks for diversity. Shortlisted candidates will receive interview calls in January 2026, with offline interviews planned across Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Indore, Kolkata, and Mumbai. The institute has kept the option open for conducting interviews online if required. For the final admissions list, the PI holds the highest influence with 45% weightage. CAT sectional scores carry 40%, while Class 10 and 12 scores add 5% each. A 5-mark diversity factor is also included. Importantly, meeting cut-offs alone does not ensure selection—candidates must achieve minimum performance standards in every PI parameter to qualify. The institute will adhere to the Government of India’s reservation norms: 27% NC-OBC, 15% SC, 7.5% ST, up to 10% EWS, and 5% PwD. All candidates, regardless of category, must still achieve the minimum performance thresholds set by IIM Indore. For students whose Class 10 or 12 results were altered due to COVID-era board evaluation policies, score weightages will be proportionally reassigned to other components such as CAT sectional scores and available board marks. The institute has also clarified that the admission process may be updated in line with any new government or institutional guidelines. Source: Indian Express

IIM Indore releases PGP 2026–28 admission criteria; increases weightage for Class 12 scores and PI Read More »

McKinsey Cuts 200 Tech Jobs as AI Takes Over More Roles

/ Human Resource Community

McKinsey & Co. has laid off around 200 technology employees over the past week as it accelerates the use of AI to automate internal functions. According to sources, the firm may implement additional job reductions across various teams over the next two years as it evaluates which tasks can be fully handled by AI systems. A spokesperson said the company is focused on improving efficiency through AI-enabled workflows, calling the technology a major driver of “unprecedented opportunity and impact” for both the firm and its clients. Global Managing Partner Bob Sternfels previously stated that McKinsey will continue investing in client-facing roles, while tightening headcount in other areas. The firm currently employs about 40,000 people, including roughly 3,000 partners. The broader consulting industry is facing economic pressures, from tighter corporate budgets to policy shifts. Rival Accenture Plc has also warned that US federal spending cuts may slow growth next year. CEO Julie Sweet noted that the company is reducing roles that cannot be retrained as it expands AI-driven services. AI’s rapid advancement is reshaping the global workforce. Analysts at Bloomberg Intelligence estimate that banks worldwide could cut up to 200,000 jobs within five years due to automation. At the same time, major lenders like Citigroup Inc. forecast AI could add $170 billion to industry earnings by 2028, with more than half of banking roles carrying high automation potential. Source: Bloomberg

McKinsey Cuts 200 Tech Jobs as AI Takes Over More Roles Read More »

Governance Emerges as India Inc’s Top Priority as Companies Race to Scale AI Infrastructure: IBM Study

/ Governance Community

India Inc is placing AI governance at the centre of its growth strategy, with a new study from the IBM Institute for Business Value revealing that strong oversight is now seen as the most critical factor for scaling AI infrastructure. In the report titled AI Infrastructure That Endures, 83% of Indian executives say that robust governance frameworks are essential for deploying AI at scale. Yet, only 4% claim their organisations have fully established mechanisms to manage AI-related risks — signalling a widening preparedness gap even as AI adoption accelerates. Despite this shortfall, enterprises are increasing investments significantly. Nearly 58% of companies have boosted their infrastructure budgets, with spending expected to rise by 19% in 2025, mirroring global trends. However, just one in ten leaders believes their current systems are fully ready to support AI needs, underscoring the urgent need for modernization to enable trust, speed and scalable performance. According to Subhathra Srinivasaraghavan, Vice President at the IBM India Systems Development Lab, Indian businesses are entering a defining stage of their AI evolution. She noted that organisations must now convert ambition into long-term impact by building agile, trustworthy and talent-driven AI ecosystems. Strengthening hybrid architectures, deepening AI skills and adopting governance-by-design were highlighted as key enablers for India’s progress toward its Viksit Bharat vision. The study finds that hybrid infrastructure is emerging as a performance catalyst — with 65% saying a fit-for-purpose hybrid strategy has improved cost and efficiency. Another 32% plan to expand hybrid AI environments over the next three years. On the skills front, companies recognise talent as a core driver of AI success. Eighty-three per cent are investing in training or hiring for AI-focused roles, though 75% admit they are still early in workforce maturity. Meanwhile, 43% have set up AI Centres of Excellence to scale internal capabilities. Source: ANI

Governance Emerges as India Inc’s Top Priority as Companies Race to Scale AI Infrastructure: IBM Study Read More »

A.S.N. School Marks 56th Annual Day with Grand Celebration of “Prerna – An Inspiration”

/ Press Release

Jammu, November 26: A.S.N. Hr. Sec. School, Channi Himmat celebrated its 56th Annual-cum-Prize Distribution Function “Prerna – An Inspiration” with grandeur and enthusiasm at the Police Auditorium, Gulshan Ground, Jammu. Shri Yudhvir Sethi, Hon’ble MLA Jammu East, was the Chief Guest, while Mr. J.S. Johar, IPS, Director Police Telecommunication, J&K presided over the function. Mr. Amit Bhasin, JKPS, SSP Traffic Jammu attended as the Special Invitee. Guests of Honour included Mr. Deepak Dubey, JKAS, Joint Director Information Jammu; Mr. Aijaz Qaiser, JKAS, Joint Director Tourism Jammu; Mr. Ranjeet Kalra, Member Governing Council (Sports) SMVDSB; Dr. A.K. Kapoor, Chairman Adarsh Educational Trust; Mr. Robin Mehta; Mr. Sanjev Vaid; and Mr. Sham Sunder. The event commenced with the National Anthem, followed by floral welcome, lighting of the ceremonial lamp, and All-Faith prayers. Mrs. P.B. Kapoor, Managing Director, Adarsh Educational Trust, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the significance of the theme “Prerna – An Inspiration” and the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded students. The Annual School Report was presented by Mr. Ritesh Kapoor, Director-Principal, who showcased the school’s achievements and vision for growth. He emphasized the school’s technological advancements, including smart classrooms, a Wi-Fi-enabled campus, and its proud legacy of 56 years in shaping disciplined citizens. Students presented a vibrant array of cultural performances including Maa Saraswati Vandana, Bollywood dance, Vande Mataram patriotic presentation, South Indian cultural item, Dogri-Kashmiri-Ladakhi folk dance, Punjabi Bhangra, and Punjabi Gidda. All performances aligned with the theme and captivated the audience. The prize distribution ceremony honored students for excellence in academics, sports, and co-curricular activities. Teachers were also awarded for their dedication and service. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Yudhvir Sethi praised the management, staff, and students for a well-organized celebration and commended the enthusiasm displayed by students. He said Annual Day functions foster teamwork, a healthy atmosphere, and learning. He also emphasized that girls today are excelling in every field. Mr. J.S. Johar lauded the school’s 56-year contribution to quality education and appreciated how the institution founded by Dr. A.K. Kapoor in 1969 has grown into a reputable Hr. Sec. School. He stressed that honoring parents and teachers should be a student’s prime duty. Mr. Deepak Dubey congratulated the school and emphasized the significance of self-discipline as an “invisible superpower” that strengthens individuals. Dr. Rahul Kapoor, Trustee, Adarsh Educational Trust, presented the vote of thanks. The event concluded with the National Anthem followed by refreshments for all participants. (Disclaimer: This report is generated from PRO services. ‘ArdorComm Media’ holds no responsibility for its content.)

A.S.N. School Marks 56th Annual Day with Grand Celebration of “Prerna – An Inspiration” Read More »

Zee Entertainment Launches ‘KidZ’ on Zee5, Re-enters Children’s Entertainment Segment

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

Zee Entertainment Enterprises has made a fresh push into the children’s entertainment space with the launch of KidZ, a dedicated kids’ service on its digital platform Zee5. The new vertical brings together a blend of learning-focused and fun programming curated for young audiences. To expand its family-focused offerings, the company has teamed up with top content creators and aggregators from India and abroad, ensuring a safe, engaging and education-driven experience for kids. Accessible via a special profile on Zee5 across all devices, KidZ launches with over 140 titles in several languages, with new episodes and shows arriving every Friday. The line-up includes well-known favourites such as Boonie Bears, Vir, Chacha Bhatija and Inspector Chingum. Zee is also building an exclusive slate of premium original kids’ shows set to debut from December 2025, combining story-driven narratives with informative elements and established character IPs. Chandan Khandelwal, Business Head for the Kids Division at Zee5 India & Global, said the goal is to build a safe, immersive destination that inspires curiosity and joy. The initiative ties into the strategic roadmap highlighted in the company’s May 2025 investor update, which identified children’s content as a high-growth segment. With digital consumption among younger viewers continuing to surge, Zee aims to strengthen its content library and scale its reach across entertainment verticals. KidZ marks Zee’s renewed focus on the kids category, more than a decade after the company exited its earlier edutainment experiment with ZeeQ, launched in 2012 but later discontinued as part of a strategic shift. Source: Economic Times  

Zee Entertainment Launches ‘KidZ’ on Zee5, Re-enters Children’s Entertainment Segment Read More »

CSIR, ICMR Chart Joint Roadmap to Boost Collaborative Health Research

/ Health & Wellness Community

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) held a high-level strategy meeting to advance a unified roadmap for collaborative health research, the Ministry of Science & Technology said on Tuesday. The session took place at the CSIR Science Centre in New Delhi and was co-chaired by N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR, and Rajiv Bahl, Director General of ICMR and Secretary, Department of Health Research. The two organisations reviewed progress on major joint initiatives, including CSIR-developed molecules progressing toward clinical trials, updates on ICMR-supported Centres of Advanced Research within CSIR labs, and implementation of large-scale national projects. The meeting also emphasised expanding wastewater surveillance for a wider range of pathogens across cities, hospitals and communities, aligning with the One Health Mission. Discussions included defining the roles of CSIR and ICMR in drug development, clinical trials, and leveraging ICMR’s large-animal toxicity testing infrastructure. The joint AcSIR–ICMR Ph.D. programme was also reviewed, with a focus on widening opportunities for young researchers by integrating ICMR and CSIR fellowship pathways. Both Dr. Kalaiselvi and Dr. Bahl stressed the importance of combining CSIR’s scientific and technological expertise with ICMR’s public health capabilities to deliver national-scale outcomes. They highlighted the need for structured, time-bound collaboration, particularly for co-developing technologies such as a digitally operated medical emergency drone service. Experts concluded by reaffirming plans to deepen cooperation in biomedical sciences, diagnostics, digital health, environmental surveillance, and other emerging healthcare domains. Source: IANS

CSIR, ICMR Chart Joint Roadmap to Boost Collaborative Health Research Read More »

IMF Considering Reclassification of India’s Forex Management Framework

/ Governance Community

The International Monetary Fund is reportedly reviewing India’s foreign-exchange (FX) management regime and may soon alter its classification, according to a recent Bloomberg report. India is currently placed under a “stabilised arrangement,” a category it was moved to in December 2023 from the earlier “floating” status. The possible reclassification comes amid heightened rupee volatility, particularly since Sanjay Malhotra took charge as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. The RBI has repeatedly disagreed with the IMF’s assessment, calling the current categorisation “incorrect” and “unjustified.” Despite the debate, the IMF acknowledges that India’s forex reserves are robust. As of November 14, the country’s foreign exchange stockpile rose by $5.54 billion, reaching $692.57 billion. Under its Integrated Policy Framework, the IMF recommends that India allow greater exchange-rate flexibility and limit forex market interventions to moments of severe disruption. This, it argues, could lower the need for heavy reserve buffers, push firms to hedge currency risks more actively, and strengthen overall market development. However, the Fund also notes that in periods of severe global financial stress, targeted FX interventions by the RBI may be warranted to stabilise markets and shield the economy from inflationary or output shocks. Source: Economic Times

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