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Lok Sabha Passes National Sports Governance Bill to Reform India’s Sporting Framework

/ Governance Community

New Delhi – The Lok Sabha on Monday cleared the landmark National Sports Governance Bill, a key reform aimed at creating a transparent, accountable, and world-class sports administration system as India prepares to bid for hosting the Olympics. The bill was passed in the absence of the opposition, which was protesting over the revision of Bihar’s electoral rolls. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya described the legislation, alongside the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill 2025, as a vital step toward strengthening the country’s sports ecosystem to meet international standards. He noted that while sports have been an integral part of Indian heritage — often linked to warfare — post-independence, the sector did not receive the necessary focus. “Despite our size, India’s Olympic and global sporting performance has been below expectations. This bill aims to change that,” he said. Key Features of the Bill: The National Sports Governance Bill establishes a legal framework to regulate National Sports Federations (NSFs), ensuring fair governance, athlete protection, and administrative accountability. Its provisions include: Transparent governance standards for NSFs. Implementation of safe sport protocols and grievance redressal systems. Standardized election processes to avoid disputes. Measures to ensure gender diversity in leadership roles. Stronger athlete representation in decision-making bodies. Financial transparency and stricter oversight. One of its most notable provisions brings the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) under the NSF governance framework. Once enacted, the BCCI will be required to seek annual recognition, and its legal disputes will be handled by a new National Sports Tribunal. Neither the BCCI nor its affiliated state bodies will be able to directly approach courts for dispute resolution. The bill also tackles ten chronic issues in Indian sports administration, ranging from recurring litigation and lack of dedicated dispute resolution bodies to the absence of legal backing for safe sport mechanisms. Age & Tenure Provisions: Addressing long-standing debates, the bill permits office-bearers to complete their term even if they turn 70 during tenure. It also sets clear tenure rules — a maximum of three terms of four years each (12 years in total) — with a mandatory cooling-off period of one term before re-election if they have served three consecutive terms. This legislation, previously returned twice by the Cabinet and once by Parliament due to disagreements, now marks a significant policy win for the BJP-led NDA government. Source: Economic Times

Lok Sabha Passes National Sports Governance Bill to Reform India’s Sporting Framework Read More »

CBSE to Roll Out Open-Book Assessments for Class 9 from 2026-27

/ Education Community

Starting from the 2026-27 academic year, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will introduce open-book assessments (OBAs) for Class 9 students. The move, approved by the board’s Governing Body in June, is based on a pilot study that tested the feasibility and acceptance of the format in schools. The initiative aims to shift the focus from rote learning to competency-based education, in line with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Under this system, students will be allowed to consult textbooks, class notes, and other approved materials during exams. The format will be applicable to core subjects such as languages, mathematics, science, and social science, and will be integrated into the three pen-and-paper tests conducted in each term. While CBSE will issue standard guidelines, schools will have the option to adopt the format. The decision follows a pilot project conducted after its approval in December 2023, which tested OBAs in Classes 9 to 12. Results revealed a performance range of 12% to 47%, highlighting difficulties in applying resources effectively and grasping interdisciplinary concepts. However, many participating teachers expressed confidence in the system’s potential to boost critical thinking skills. CBSE has previously experimented with similar formats, introducing the Open Text-Based Assessment (OTBA) in 2014 for Classes 9 and 11. In that model, students received reference materials months ahead of exams, but it was discontinued in 2017-18 due to limited success. To ensure smoother execution this time, the board plans to provide model question papers, detailed guidelines, and training for schools. Officials believe these measures will help students develop analytical and problem-solving abilities, aligning assessment practices with NEP 2020’s vision for future-ready learning. Source: NDTV

CBSE to Roll Out Open-Book Assessments for Class 9 from 2026-27 Read More »

Breakthrough in Understanding Childhood Immunity to Strep A Could Accelerate Vaccine Development

/ Health & Wellness Community

A team of scientists has uncovered how young children naturally build immunity against Group A Streptococcus (Strep A), a bacterial infection responsible for up to half a million deaths worldwide each year. The finding could significantly speed up the creation of a life-saving vaccine. Strep A is a common bacterium that can cause mild illnesses like sore throat and skin infections, but in severe cases, it can trigger life-threatening diseases. While deaths from Strep A are rare in wealthier nations, outbreaks can be devastating. In late 2022, a surge in cases across the UK and Europe claimed hundreds of lives, including those of many children. The burden is far greater in low- and middle-income countries, where thousands die annually from the infection. Researchers from the University of Sheffield, working with the Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, tracked how Gambian children acquire natural immunity. Published in Nature Medicine, the study identified specific antibodies linked to protection from Strep A, marking a crucial step toward vaccine design. The team observed that babies are born with some immunity passed down from their mothers, but this protection fades quickly. Young children, however, develop robust antibody responses to different components of the bacteria after repeated exposure. This discovery pinpoints a key window for immune development, which could guide more effective vaccination strategies. Lead researcher Dr. Alex Keeley said this is the first time scientists have seen in humans how antibodies generated through vaccination might prevent Strep A infections. Gambian scientist Fatouamta Camara described the infection’s “devastating burden” on communities and expressed hope that a vaccine could break the cycle of illness and socio-economic hardship. The research was a collaboration between Sheffield’s Florey Institute of Infection and the GSK Vaccine Institute for Global Health. Professor Thushan de Silva, who co-directed the study, emphasised the importance of cross-institutional efforts in delivering impactful global health research. Source: PTI

Breakthrough in Understanding Childhood Immunity to Strep A Could Accelerate Vaccine Development Read More »

Majority of Indian Firms Lack AI Governance Amid Soaring Data Breach Costs: IBM Report

/ Governance Community

A new IBM study has revealed that a significant portion of Indian companies remain unprepared to tackle the cybersecurity challenges posed by rapid AI adoption. According to the Cost of a Data Breach Report 2025, nearly 60% of Indian organizations either do not have an AI governance policy in place or are still developing one, highlighting a concerning disconnect between the use of artificial intelligence and the implementation of necessary safeguards. The report underscores a growing vulnerability, as India records its highest-ever average cost of a data breach — ₹220 million in 2025, reflecting a 13% spike from ₹195 million the previous year. The increase is attributed largely to companies deploying AI tools without adequate risk management frameworks or access controls. IBM’s global analysis suggests this is not an isolated trend. While businesses worldwide are embracing AI technologies, security infrastructure is struggling to keep pace, creating fertile ground for cyberattacks on unmanaged AI systems. In India, the statistics are alarming: Only 37% of organizations have instituted AI-specific access controls. A mere 42% have mechanisms in place to detect or manage “shadow AI” — unauthorized AI tools used without IT oversight. Shadow AI has now emerged as one of the top three contributors to breach-related costs, adding an average of ₹17.9 million to each incident. However, a majority of organizations have yet to implement tools or protocols to monitor these hidden threats. When it comes to breach causes, phishing remains the leading culprit, responsible for 18% of incidents, followed by third-party and supply chain vulnerabilities (17%) and exploitation of known system flaws (13%). The research sector topped the chart with the highest average breach cost at ₹289 million, closely followed by transportation (₹288 million) and industrial sectors (₹264 million). Despite the clear advantages of using AI-powered cybersecurity solutions — which the report notes can cut breach-related costs by more than 50% — a staggering 73% of Indian organizations report minimal or no deployment of AI-driven security automation. The findings stress an urgent need for enterprises to not only accelerate their adoption of AI governance frameworks but also invest in AI-based defense mechanisms to reduce vulnerability and financial exposure in an increasingly digital world. Source: IBM

Majority of Indian Firms Lack AI Governance Amid Soaring Data Breach Costs: IBM Report Read More »

CBSE Unveils Career Guidance Dashboard and Mental Health Support Network for Schools

/ Education Community

In a significant step towards student empowerment and well-being, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched two major initiatives for the academic year 2025-26 — the CBSE Career Guidance Dashboard and the Counseling Hub and Spoke School Model. Announced on August 7 at the CBSE Integrated Office in Dwarka, these initiatives aim to equip students with both future-ready career planning tools and robust psychosocial support systems within schools. The Career Guidance Dashboard, accessible at cbsecareerguidance.in, is a digital platform offering students a wealth of resources for exploring career options in a structured and informed manner. It is designed to support students at various academic levels as they make decisions about their future educational and career paths. Complementing this, the CBSE Counseling Hub and Spoke Model introduces a community-based approach to mental health support. Under this model, selected CBSE-affiliated “hub” schools will serve as training and resource centres, offering guidance and best practices to surrounding “spoke” schools within their region. This connected network encourages collaboration, peer learning, and the development of emotionally resilient school environments. “The hub and spoke model is not just about guidance — it’s about creating a culture of care and shared learning among schools,” CBSE stated in its official communication. The launch event drew participation from over 500 school leaders, wellness coordinators, and counselors from across the country. During the event, CBSE Chairperson Rahul Singh, IAS underscored how these initiatives reflect the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, especially in making education more inclusive, student-centric, and technology-enabled. CBSE Secretary Himanshu Gupta, IAS also highlighted the urgent need for a more structured approach to mental health in schools and commended institutions that actively help students navigate academic and emotional challenges. A detailed session on the Counseling Hub and Spoke Model outlined its implementation roadmap, including roles, responsibilities, training protocols, and evaluation strategies to ensure consistent and measurable impact. The event also featured a keynote by Dr. Sanyam Bhardwaj, CBSE Controller of Examinations, who elaborated on the board’s post-NEP 2020 reforms. Panel discussions brought together voices from diverse schools, offering real-world insights into integrating career counseling and mental wellness into school systems. CBSE reaffirmed its commitment to holistic student development and called for stronger collaboration among educators, administrators, and mental health professionals. “With these initiatives, CBSE is reinforcing its mission to nurture not just academically successful students, but also emotionally and socially balanced individuals,” the Board said in its official statement. Source: Indian Express  

CBSE Unveils Career Guidance Dashboard and Mental Health Support Network for Schools Read More »

US Labor Market Faces a ‘He-cession’ as Young Men Struggle with Joblessness

/ Human Resource Community

Although the broader US job market appears relatively stable — with July’s national unemployment rate standing at 4.2% — a closer look reveals a troubling trend among young men. Unemployment among males aged 20 to 24 has surged to 8.3%, a level commonly associated with economic recessions. For recent male college graduates, the rate hovers at 5.3%, nearly double the figures for their female counterparts. These stark differences have prompted some to wonder: is the US entering a new phase of gendered job market downturn — a “he-cession”? The term “she-cession” gained traction during the pandemic, when women bore the brunt of job losses, especially in sectors like hospitality and retail. Today, it seems young men may be facing a similar economic squeeze. While men have historically dominated the workforce and still earn more on average, their employment prospects have been declining for decades — and now even a college degree no longer guarantees an advantage. The key question is whether this is just a short-term dip or a sign of deeper, long-term changes in the economy. If it’s merely a phase in the economic cycle, improvement may come with the next upturn. But if this reflects a more permanent shift — where male-dominated skills and industries are losing relevance due to automation, AI, or growth in sectors traditionally filled by women — then male joblessness could become a much bigger problem. Part of the current trend is indeed cyclical. Men and younger workers are typically the first to feel the pinch during economic slowdowns, as many of them are employed in industries more vulnerable to downturns, such as manufacturing and construction. In contrast, women are more likely to work in sectors like education and healthcare, which tend to remain steady even during economic contractions. Still, the data suggests more is at play. Among recent college graduates working in retail, unemployment is significantly higher for men (8.2%) than for women (4.7%). Most of the joblessness is concentrated in roles at restaurants and department stores — sectors that already over-hired in the immediate post-pandemic recovery and are now scaling back. One theory is that college-educated men, unable to land roles in their desired fields, are turning to hospitality and retail for interim work — but even these industries aren’t hiring like they once did. As a result, these men are left without employment, even in fallback jobs. AI has been widely discussed as a potential disruptor, but so far, its impact on employment has been limited. For example, while joblessness among recent graduates in tech and data services has risen from 1.7% in 2019 to over 5% now, these levels are not yet alarming. Other fields, like finance and business services, have also seen slight upticks, but remain relatively stable. The real concern lies ahead. If the economy weakens further, companies may accelerate their adoption of AI to cut costs — particularly by reducing entry-level hiring. If managers become more comfortable using generative AI tools in place of junior analysts, what starts as a temporary slowdown could evolve into a lasting shift in hiring practices. For now, the broader labor market holds steady — but for young men, especially recent graduates, the outlook is increasingly uncertain. The US may not be in a full-blown “he-cession” yet, but all signs point to one brewing on the horizon. Source: Bloomberg

US Labor Market Faces a ‘He-cession’ as Young Men Struggle with Joblessness Read More »

WHO Urges Boost in TB Research and Innovation to Tackle High Burden in South-East Asia

/ Health & Wellness Community

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent call to enhance research, innovation, and regional cooperation to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) in the South-East Asia region — a region that continues to carry nearly half of the global TB burden. Speaking at the launch of a three-day virtual workshop focused on advancing TB research and innovation, Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge for WHO South-East Asia, emphasized that in 2023 alone, the region saw nearly 5 million new TB cases and around 600,000 related deaths. The workshop brings together national TB programme leaders, scientists, civil society members, and global partners to push forward efforts aligned with the WHO’s End TB Strategy. The Need for Urgency and Collaboration Dr. Boehme highlighted that ending TB demands the rapid adoption of new tools, diagnostics, and treatments — and, more importantly, equitable and timely access to these innovations. “Collaboration is key to scaling up impact and ensuring that no one is left behind,” she stated. Despite a post-COVID-19 rebound in TB case detection in 2023, current progress is falling short of the End TB Strategy’s 2030 goals: a 90% drop in TB-related deaths and an 80% decline in incidence compared to 2015. Alarmingly, TB has returned as the world’s leading cause of death from a single infectious disease, with its effects disproportionately hitting the poorest and most vulnerable communities. In South-East Asia, between 30% and 80% of TB-affected households experience catastrophic healthcare expenses, pointing to the urgent need for inclusive, people-first approaches and stronger social protection systems. Signs of Progress Amidst Challenges Still, there are signs of advancement. In 2023, the region recorded 3.8 million new or relapsed TB cases, with an 89% treatment success rate among those who began treatment in 2022. The number of undiagnosed cases was significantly reduced — down to 22% from 44% in 2020. Countries are increasingly adopting technology-driven solutions such as artificial intelligence for detecting TB, digital adherence tools to monitor treatment, and direct benefit transfers to ease patients’ financial burdens. These innovations are being powered by strong political will and national commitment. Several countries have also expanded research efforts. Bangladesh has concluded a national patient cost survey, while India’s RATIONS study provided valuable insights on the role of nutrition in TB prevention and recovery. Nepal’s “TB-Free Pallika” initiative and Myanmar’s multisectoral coordination model are examples of community-led innovations that prioritize vulnerable populations. According to WHO, over 3,000 TB-related research papers were published by South-East Asian countries in the past six years, with 60% being original research. However, the challenge lies in transforming these findings into action, as knowledge gaps and lack of collaborative platforms hinder broader impact. Strengthening Regional and Global Coordination The workshop will also focus on building stronger South-South collaboration, vaccine readiness, use of digital tools for patient care, and tackling vaccine hesitancy. Discussions will revolve around aligning regulatory frameworks, improving knowledge-sharing platforms, and setting research priorities that address underlying drivers of TB — such as malnutrition and climate-related risks. Dr. Boehme noted the growing threat posed by drug-resistant TB and emphasized the importance of ensuring that scientific progress benefits everyone equally. “Access to new vaccines, medicines, and diagnostics must be equitable. Reaching underserved communities through proactive case-finding and offering socio-economic support is essential in mitigating the financial toll of TB,” she concluded. Source: PTI Photo Credit: Getty Images

WHO Urges Boost in TB Research and Innovation to Tackle High Burden in South-East Asia Read More »

India and Philippines Forge Deeper Ties: 14 MoUs Signed to Boost Defence, Trade, Maritime, and Tourism Cooperation

/ Governance Community

In a significant diplomatic move marking the 75th anniversary of their bilateral ties, India and the Philippines on Tuesday signed 14 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to broaden cooperation across key strategic areas. The agreements were exchanged in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., who is on his first state visit to India. These new agreements signal a strengthening of ties between the two nations and include a wide range of sectors such as defence, maritime security, space, digital technology, science, tourism, and legal collaboration. One of the key outcomes was the adoption of Terms of Reference for negotiations on a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), laying the foundation for deeper economic integration. This step is expected to enhance bilateral trade and investment flows between the two growing economies. The MoUs also include treaties on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, a Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, and structured staff talks between the respective Air Forces, Armies, and Navies. Additionally, the two countries agreed to enhance coordination between their Coast Guards, especially in the context of rising maritime challenges in the Indo-Pacific. The maritime dimension of the partnership was further highlighted by the recent completion of the first India-Philippines Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in the South China Sea — a region rife with overlapping territorial claims. Three Indian naval vessels — INS Delhi (D61), INS Kiltan (P30), and INS Shakti (A57) — participated in the joint patrols. The partnership also takes a leap forward in science, space, and technology. India’s ISRO and the Philippine Space Agency signed a Statement of Intent to collaborate on the peaceful use of outer space, while a new Programme of Cooperation in Science and Technology (2025–2028) was signed to foster joint research and innovation. In tourism, both nations agreed on an Implementation Program for Cooperation in Tourism (2025–2028). As a goodwill gesture, India also announced a gratis e-tourist visa facility for Filipino citizens for one year starting August 2025. Cultural connections were celebrated through a commemorative stamp release, featuring the national flowers — India’s lotus and the Philippines’ Sampaguita — symbolizing enduring ties. A Cultural Exchange Programme was also agreed upon to promote people-to-people connections. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the “ancient cultural bond” between the two countries, citing the Philippine version of the Ramayana — Maharadia Lawana — as a testament to their long-standing relationship. “We are friends by choice and partners by destiny,” Modi said. President Marcos hailed the elevation of the partnership to strategic status, noting India as the Philippines’ fifth strategic partner. He pointed to the growing synergy between the two nations and their alignment on global and regional issues. To guide the growing cooperation, both countries adopted a Strategic Partnership Plan of Action for 2025–2029, which will serve as a roadmap across multiple sectors — including health, pharmaceuticals, fintech, digital economy, infrastructure, culture, and multilateral coordination. India has also extended support to help the Philippines build a Sovereign Data Cloud Infrastructure as part of its digital transformation efforts and has invited the Philippines to participate in the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR). This wide-ranging set of agreements reflects the shared vision of India and the Philippines to shape a secure, prosperous, and interconnected Indo-Pacific region. Source: ANI

India and Philippines Forge Deeper Ties: 14 MoUs Signed to Boost Defence, Trade, Maritime, and Tourism Cooperation Read More »

CBSE Class 10 Supplementary Result 2025 Declared: 48.68% Students Clear Compartment Exam

/ Education Community

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially announced the Class 10 supplementary examination results on August 5, 2025. Students who appeared for the compartment exams can now access their results via the official portals — cbse.gov.in, cbseresults.nic.in, or on the DigiLocker platform. To check the results, students need to enter their roll number, school number, admit card ID, and security pin. The verification and revaluation process will commence from August 8. This year, out of the 1,43,648 students who registered for the CBSE Class 10 compartment exam, 1,38,898 appeared, and 67,620 managed to pass. The overall pass percentage stands at 48.68%. Girls outperformed boys, achieving a pass percentage of 51.04%, compared to 47.41% among boys — a lead of 3.63%. Steps to Check CBSE Class 10 Supplementary Result 2025: Visit the official CBSE website – cbse.gov.in. Click on the link for Class 10 supplementary results on the homepage. Enter your login details, including registration number and date of birth. Your result will appear on the screen. Download and save the result for future reference. Regular students will receive their mark sheet cum passing certificate at their respective schools. Private candidates will receive theirs at their designated exam centres in Delhi or at the addresses mentioned in their application forms. The supplementary exams were held from July 15 to 22 across 15,495 schools and 970 examination centres in India and 26 other countries. In the regular board exams conducted earlier this year from February 15 to March 18, 2025, a total of 23,85,079 students registered, with 23,71,939 appearing for the exams. Out of them, 22,21,636 passed, bringing the overall pass percentage to 93.66%. Results for the main exams were declared on May 13. For comparison, CBSE declared the supplementary results for Class 10 on August 5 in 2024, August 4 in 2023, and September 9 in 2022. Source: Indian Express  

CBSE Class 10 Supplementary Result 2025 Declared: 48.68% Students Clear Compartment Exam Read More »

Manipal Hospitals Seeks CCI Approval to Acquire Sahyadri Hospitals in Rs 6,400 Crore Deal

/ Health & Wellness Community

Manipal Hospitals has approached the Competition Commission of India (CCI) seeking approval to acquire Pune-headquartered Sahyadri Hospitals in a deal estimated to be worth between ₹6,200 crore and ₹6,400 crore. The transaction involves purchasing up to 100% equity in Sahyadri Hospitals Pvt Ltd through multiple tranches, according to the regulatory filing. Though the official deal value has not been disclosed, industry insiders peg the acquisition around ₹6,400 crore. The seller, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board, a Canada-based global investor, had acquired a majority stake in Sahyadri Hospitals in 2022. In a joint statement, both healthcare entities noted that the transaction is unlikely to impact competition in any significant way, allowing the CCI flexibility in defining relevant markets. They emphasized that the deal poses no appreciable adverse effect on competition (AAEC) in the Indian healthcare sector. Manipal Hospitals, headquartered in Bengaluru, recently confirmed that it had signed definitive agreements with Ontario Teachers’ for the takeover. The move is a significant step toward expanding Manipal’s reach in western India. With the acquisition of Sahyadri’s 11 hospitals located across Pune, Nashik, Ahilya Nagar, and Karad, Manipal’s total hospital count will rise to 49, with a combined capacity of approximately 12,000 beds — placing it among the largest hospital networks in the country. Commenting on the development, Dilip Jose, MD & CEO of Manipal Health Enterprises, said, “This acquisition aligns with our goal of enhancing access to quality healthcare across India. Supported by our stakeholders, including Temasek, we look forward to serving a broader patient base.” Ranjan Pai, Chairman of Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), added that the expansion will significantly bolster the group’s presence in Maharashtra and western India. Manipal Hospitals is backed by Singapore-based investment firm Temasek, which manages a portfolio valued at around USD 324 billion as of March 2025. Ontario Teachers’, with assets totaling USD 266.3 billion as of December 2024, exits Sahyadri after helping it become one of Maharashtra’s leading hospital chains with over 1,400 beds. This strategic acquisition marks a major milestone in Manipal’s ongoing mission to build a truly pan-India healthcare network. Source: PTI

Manipal Hospitals Seeks CCI Approval to Acquire Sahyadri Hospitals in Rs 6,400 Crore Deal Read More »