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CBSE Mandates Audio-Visual CCTV Installation in Schools to Enhance Student Safety

/ Education Community
Ardorcomm news

In a significant move to reinforce student safety on school campuses, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a directive requiring all affiliated schools to install high-resolution CCTV systems with audio-visual recording capabilities in strategic areas of their premises. As per the latest amendment to the CBSE Affiliation Bye Laws-2018, schools must ensure that classrooms, corridors, staircases, libraries, and other common zones — excluding toilets and washrooms — are under continuous surveillance. These systems must also maintain a minimum 15-day backup of recorded footage, accessible to authorities when needed. This initiative, aimed at safeguarding students from bullying and other potential threats, is in line with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)’s 2021 safety manual, which highlights the need for both physical and emotional security in educational settings. CBSE Secretary Himanshu Gupta emphasized that children have a constitutional right to a safe, respectful learning environment. He stated, “The safety has two aspects- a)unscrupulous un-societal elements, b) safety for the overall well being of the children with reference to bullying and implicit threats. All of such probabilities can be prevented with the usage of the latest technology.” Source: New Indian Express

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DTH Revenues Dip in FY25 While FM Radio Sees Growth: MIB Report

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community
Media news

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) reported a decline in revenue from the Direct-to-Home (DTH) television sector in FY25, signaling a waning user base for pay TV services. In contrast, earnings from the FM radio sector witnessed an uptick, according to the ministry’s latest financial disclosures. In FY25, revenue from private DTH operators stood at ₹648.73 crore, down from ₹692 crore in FY24 and ₹859.96 crore in FY23—a 25% decline over two years. Meanwhile, private FM radio revenues rose to ₹196.28 crore, up from ₹186.80 crore in FY24 and ₹178.99 crore in FY23. Overall, the ministry earned ₹1,012.39 crore in non-tax revenue in FY25 through the Bharatkosh platform on the NTR e-portal, primarily from TV and radio licensing fees. India’s DTH sector, comprising Tata Play, Airtel Digital TV, Dish TV, and Sun Direct, has seen a continuous drop in active pay-TV subscribers—from 70.26 million in 2020 to 56.92 million in 2025, as per TRAI data. This trend is driven by a growing shift toward OTT platforms and the free-to-air DD Free Dish service, which now reaches an estimated 50–60 million households. Adding to the sector’s challenges, the MIB issued demand notices exceeding ₹16,000 crore to private DTH operators for unpaid licence fees. Meanwhile, DD Free Dish, operated by Prasar Bharati, does not pay licence fees and falls outside the private DTH revenue structure. On the other hand, FM radio continues to maintain its relevance, especially in regional and semi-urban markets. Revenue is generated through entry and migration fees, licence fees, tower rentals, and processing charges. The ministry noted FM’s growing popularity among youth and advertisers, with 388 private FM channels operating across 113 cities in 26 states and 5 Union territories as of March 2024. New FM stations have also been launched in border areas such as Leh, Kargil, Bhaderwah, Kathua, and Poonch to bolster outreach efforts. TRAI data shows total advertising revenue for FM radio reached ₹466.63 crore in Q4 FY24, a slight drop from ₹500.11 crore in Q3, but still reflecting the medium’s resilience in a rapidly evolving media environment. Source: Economic Times  

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Empowering Digital India through Education: Countdown to ArdorComm – Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 in Bengaluru

/ Blogs

As India accelerates its journey toward becoming a digitally empowered knowledge economy, education remains the linchpin of this transformation. Against this backdrop, ArdorComm Media Group, one of India’s fastest-growing media organisations, is set to host its National Flagship Event – Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 in Bengaluru, Karnataka on 19th September 2025. With a future-forward theme – Digital India Rising: Transforming Education, Skilling & Employability – the conclave promises to be a high-impact gathering of education stakeholders, tech innovators, government dignitaries, and institutional leaders from across the nation. Why Does This Conclave Matters? India’s Digital Bharat initiatives have dramatically reshaped the way learning is delivered, accessed, and consumed. From remote tribal belts to bustling urban centres, digital technologies are now at the heart of educational outreach. The conclave arrives at a time when the country is witnessing a surge in Education 5.0—an ecosystem where Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), immersive AR/VR experiences, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and data-driven insights are redefining education models. Bengaluru, Karnataka—India’s tech capital—provides the perfect setting for this exchange of ideas. The state’s forward-thinking policies, robust digital infrastructure, and dynamic education ecosystem make it a prime example of how technology can be leveraged to uplift learning outcomes, boost employability, and ensure inclusive education. What to Expect: Key Highlights This one-day conclave is designed as an interactive platform to celebrate, discuss, and design the next leap in Indian education. Here’s what the day entails: Panel Discussions: 6+ engaging sessions featuring experts from academia, government, and industry. 50+ Esteemed Speakers sharing best practices and innovative approaches. Participation from 150+ Higher Education Institutions, 100+ K-12 Schools, 20+ EdTech Corporates. 2+ RoundTable Discussions to deep-dive into policy, technology, and leadership challenges. ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2025 to honour institutions and individuals driving change. Who Will Be There? Expect participation from a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including: Government Officials & Policy Makers University Leaders & College Principals EdTech Innovators & Startups HR Professionals from Skill & Employability Sectors K-12 & Preschool Management Bodies Training & Certification Bodies The conclave is a dynamic networking opportunity for changemakers committed to uplifting the Indian education ecosystem. Key Discussion Themes The event will revolve around the following futuristic and inclusive themes: Empowering Students for the Global Stage: Skills for 21st Century Workforce Inclusive Campus in Digital Era: Addressing Digital Divides, Diversifying Curricula Degrees to Skills: Rethinking Higher Education Outcomes for the Future Workforce Education 5.0: Redefining Education by Integrating Immersive & Advanced Technologies Public-Private Partnerships in Education: Institutional Perspectives for Scalable Impact These themes reflect the urgency to not just adapt to change, but lead it. ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2025: Honouring the Trailblazers One of the marquee segments of the conclave is the Education Leadership Awards 2025, a prestigious initiative to honour excellence, innovation, and impact in the education and skilling ecosystem. From preschools to universities, from startups to corporate giants—six award segments will celebrate those who’ve truly made a difference: Award Segments: Preschool Awards School Education Awards Higher Education Awards Skills & Training Awards EdTech Startup Awards EdTech Corporate Awards If you or your institution has led by example in advancing education, nominate now: Submit Nomination Why You Should Attend This is not just another event—it’s a collaborative movement towards building an inclusive, tech-driven, and skill-oriented education system for India. Whether you’re a policymaker, educator, institution head, EdTech entrepreneur, or HR professional, DBEC 2025 will help you: Stay ahead of policy and tech trends Connect with India’s top education influencers Showcase your innovations and gain visibility Collaborate for strategic partnerships and investments Celebrate and learn from the best in the sector Conclusion: The Future Is Now The Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 is more than just a confluence of thought leaders—it’s a platform to redefine the trajectory of Indian education. In the heart of India’s tech capital, this conclave will set the stage for meaningful dialogues, pathbreaking innovations, and actionable collaborations that push the boundaries of what’s possible. Mark your calendar – 19th September 2025 Location – Bengaluru, Karnataka Theme – Digital India Rising: Transforming Education, Skilling & Employability Let’s come together to celebrate changemakers and shape a digitally empowered future for India’s learners. Stay tuned for updates, speaker announcements, and more. Follow us with hashtags: #DBEC2025 #DBECBengaluru #DigitalBharatEducationConclave

Empowering Digital India through Education: Countdown to ArdorComm – Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 in Bengaluru Read More »

India Unveils New Strategies to Future-Proof Coal Sector Amid Green Transition

/ Governance Community

The Government of India has introduced a comprehensive set of initiatives aimed at enhancing the sustainability and competitiveness of the coal sector, even as the nation steadily increases its reliance on renewable energy sources. With coal still meeting around 55% of India’s energy demand and the country holding the fifth-largest coal reserves globally, the government is striking a balance between energy security and climate commitments. Focus on Greener Mining Practices Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in the coal and lignite space are implementing widespread environmental and efficiency upgrades. These include large-scale afforestation and bio-reclamation efforts around operational mines to reduce ecological damage. Energy-saving initiatives have also been scaled up, such as switching to LED lighting, incorporating energy-efficient appliances, deploying electric vehicles, and using smart technologies like auto timers and super fans in mine sites and street lighting systems. Additionally, treated mine water is being repurposed for community needs — from irrigation and firefighting to fish farming and domestic supply. Several MoUs with state governments aim to expand this supply to nearby villages and towns. In a move to reduce dependence on river sand and protect ecosystems, coal PSUs are now extracting usable sand from overburden (OB) waste. Nine processing units — including M-Sand and OB-to-sand plants — are now operational, promoting sustainable construction and groundwater recharge. Embracing Cleaner and Smarter Technologies Under the First Mile Connectivity (FMC) initiative, the coal sector is modernizing its logistics by shifting to mechanized transport systems. This helps reduce fuel usage and lower carbon emissions. To minimize environmental disruption, companies are increasingly deploying blast-free technologies such as Surface Miners and Continuous Miners, which significantly cut down on air and noise pollution. There’s also a growing push towards clean energy and green technologies within the sector. Coal companies are investing in renewable energy projects, coal gasification, and coal bed methane (CBM) extraction. Participation in the Green Credit Programme by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change signals the sector’s proactive stance toward environmental responsibility. Reducing Imports and Enhancing Domestic Supply India is steadily reducing its reliance on imported coal. According to Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy, coal imports dropped from 264.5 million tonnes in FY 2023–24 to 243.6 million tonnes in FY 2024–25. This shift is driven by measures such as faster coal block allocations, greater private sector involvement, digital adoption in mining operations, and faster clearances for mining projects. An Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) has been established to promote import substitution and is working directly with power plants to align their needs with domestic coal supplies. Infrastructure developments, including new railway lines and expanded FMC corridors, are also improving coal evacuation and logistics, ensuring faster and more reliable deliveries across regions. Through these integrated steps, the Indian government is ensuring coal remains a stable and competitive component of the country’s energy mix — while simultaneously advancing toward a greener, more sustainable future. Source: DD News  

India Unveils New Strategies to Future-Proof Coal Sector Amid Green Transition Read More »

Big Four Slash Graduate Hiring as AI and Global Shifts Redefine Consulting Talent Models

/ Education Community

The world’s leading professional services firms—Deloitte, EY, PwC, and KPMG—are significantly scaling back entry-level hiring in 2025, reflecting a profound shift in how the consulting sector operates in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) and rising cost pressures. According to fresh insights reported by The Guardian, graduate job postings across the Big Four have declined by 44% this year. This contraction coincides with a broader downturn in the UK white-collar job market, where vacancies have fallen 43% since 2022, as outlined in McKinsey & Company’s June 2025 labour market study. AI Reshapes the Foundations of Consulting Work The move marks a major disruption to the traditional consulting model that heavily relied on recruiting large numbers of fresh graduates. Instead, generative AI and intelligent automation tools are now performing much of the analytical, research, and presentation work previously assigned to junior consultants. “This isn’t a case of automation replacing repetitive work—it’s smart technology doing a significant chunk of high-cognitive tasks once reserved for entry-level roles,” a former Big Four strategist told the Financial Times. “The economics of graduate hiring have shifted.” This transformation is prompting firms to move from the traditional pyramid structure—where a broad base of juniors supports senior staff—to what’s now being described internally as a “diamond model,” characterised by a slimmer base, a stronger mid-tier, and expert-led teams augmented by AI. Offshoring and Structural Adjustments Gain Momentum Alongside AI adoption, the Big Four are accelerating offshoring to optimize operations and reduce costs. Talent advisory firm Patrick Morgan highlighted the following workforce realignments between 2023 and 2024: Deloitte reduced staff in the Netherlands by 5%, while expanding its Malaysian workforce by 9%. KPMG downsized in the UK by 7%, while growing its presence in Pakistan by 10%. EY trimmed German headcount by 6%, offset by a 7% rise in Indonesia. PwC cut 18% of its staff in Australia, shifting 12% of roles to Mexico, following a major misconduct investigation. “This isn’t just cost-cutting—it’s a strategic restructuring,” explained Dr Charlotte Moore, a labour economist at the University of Leeds. “Firms are recalibrating how and where work gets done amid technological disruption and global wage dynamics.” Market Shocks and Emerging Competition These structural overhauls come amid reputational turbulence. Firms like PwC have been entangled in controversies—including misuse of confidential government data in Australia—that have triggered client exits and internal shakeups. At the same time, private equity firms are backing leaner, tech-native consultancies. According to Bloomberg, PE investments in European consulting and accounting firms surged to nearly 200 deals in 2024—up from just 20 in 2022—indicating a growing appetite for agile challengers to the Big Four. “These new players are built for a digital-first world,” said James O’Dowd of Patrick Morgan. “They’re fast, focused, and often operate with flatter hierarchies—something legacy firms are struggling to adapt to.” What This Means for HR and Future Talent Strategies The shift is forcing HR and talent leaders to reimagine early-career pathways. With AI now capable of replicating much of the output expected from junior hires, traditional graduate recruitment models are becoming obsolete. Future-focused strategies now include: Developing graduate roles that build uniquely human, high-value skills. Promoting AI literacy across all departments, not just technical teams. Integrating automation into training programmes to strengthen human-AI collaboration. Restructuring global talent pipelines to balance local expertise with offshore operations. The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) confirmed that firms are reallocating budgets to upskilling existing staff in AI tools and methods, often reducing graduate intakes as a result. “We’re witnessing a strategic reset—not a breakdown,” said Dr Moore. “The future of consulting lies in how effectively firms—and the next generation of professionals—can adapt to a human-plus-AI model.” Source: peoplematters

Big Four Slash Graduate Hiring as AI and Global Shifts Redefine Consulting Talent Models Read More »

India Clinches 7th Spot at IMO 2025 with Record-Breaking Score, Wins 3 Gold Medals

/ Education Community
Education news

India delivered a stellar performance at the 66th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) 2025 held in Sunshine Coast, Australia, by securing three gold, two silver, and one bronze medal. This remarkable feat placed the country 7th in the global rankings with a record-high score of 193 out of 252 points. The gold medalists were Kanav Talwar and Arav Gupta from Delhi, along with Aditya Mangudi from Maharashtra. Silver medals were awarded to Abel George Mathew from Karnataka and Adish Jain from Delhi, while Archit Manas, also from Delhi, earned the bronze. According to a release from the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education in Mumbai, a total of 630 students participated in the global contest, including 69 female contestants. This is only the second time since 1998 that India has claimed three golds in a single IMO. Last year, in 2024, India achieved a historic milestone with four golds. Since debuting at the IMO in 1989, India has now earned 23 gold medals—12 of which were won between 2019 and 2025, including an impressive nine in the last three years. Source: Newsonair  

India Clinches 7th Spot at IMO 2025 with Record-Breaking Score, Wins 3 Gold Medals Read More »

ICMR Opens Door for Commercial Production of Next-Gen Malaria Vaccine

/ Health & Wellness Community
Ardorcomm news

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has announced a major step forward in the fight against malaria by inviting expressions of interest (EoI) from eligible companies and manufacturers for the commercial production of a breakthrough malaria vaccine, AdFalciVax. Developed by the ICMR’s Regional Medical Research Centre in Bhubaneswar, this recombinant chimeric multi-stage vaccine targets Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite, offering both individual protection and reduced community transmission. Pre-clinical validation of the vaccine technology was carried out in collaboration with ICMR-NIMR (National Institute of Malaria Research), other ICMR institutes, and the National Institute of Immunology in Delhi, which operates under the Department of Biotechnology. ICMR-RMRCBB will provide technical know-how and hands-on support throughout the vaccine production process to ensure a smooth and efficient pathway to commercialisation. Furthermore, ICMR’s team of seasoned scientists will assist in product development, study design, protocol development, data and results analysis, efficacy and safety assessments, and necessary improvements, based on mutual agreement with the collaborating partner. This initiative marks a significant stride in India’s effort to eliminate malaria through indigenous innovation and collaborative biotech development. Source: PTI

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UK Scientists Achieve Breakthrough with Birth of 8 Healthy Babies Using Three-Person IVF

/ Health & Wellness Community
Ardorcomm news

In a landmark achievement for reproductive medicine, British researchers have successfully delivered eight babies free of mitochondrial disease through an advanced fertility technique known as three-person IVF. This innovative procedure combines the genetic material of two parents with healthy mitochondria from a donor egg, offering new hope to families battling hereditary mitochondrial conditions. The pioneering work was conducted at Newcastle University, which remains the only UK clinic licensed to perform the treatment under regulations set by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). Among 22 high-risk women who underwent the procedure, seven pregnancies were successful, leading to the birth of eight healthy infants—four boys and four girls, including one set of twins. How Three-Person IVF Works Also referred to as mitochondrial donation, the procedure involves extracting the nuclear DNA from a fertilized egg—containing genetic material from both biological parents—and transferring it into a donor egg that has had its nucleus removed but retains healthy mitochondria. This creates an embryo with the parents’ genes and functional mitochondria from the donor. Because mitochondrial DNA accounts for just a tiny fraction (0.02–1%) of the total genome, this method does not influence the child’s physical traits or personality. Instead, it eliminates the risk of severe, often fatal diseases associated with dysfunctional mitochondria, such as organ failure or neurological disorders. Clinical Results and Safety The clinical data is promising. Five of the eight babies showed no trace of mutated mitochondria, while the remaining three had only minimal levels (5–16%)—well below the 80% threshold that typically leads to disease. All infants are developing normally, hitting age-appropriate milestones, with only a few minor, non-mitochondrial-related health issues reported. These results, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, affirm the therapy’s safety and efficacy in preventing genetic transmission of mitochondrial disorders. A Regulated Path Forward The UK became the first nation to legalize mitochondrial donation in 2015, with clinical implementation starting in 2017. Since then, only women who are highly likely to pass on mitochondrial diseases have been approved for treatment, and each case is subject to rigorous ethical and medical review. By mid-2025, around 35 women had been cleared to receive this therapy. A Future of Promise and Caution While this scientific milestone brings much-needed optimism to affected families—some of whom have lost children to mitochondrial disease—experts are advocating for continued long-term follow-up. This is especially important because mitochondrial DNA is inherited maternally, meaning that any girls born from this technique could pass the donor mitochondria on to future generations. The balance between innovation and caution remains vital, but the success of these eight births signals a significant step toward eradicating certain inherited diseases and advancing assisted reproduction. Source: TOI

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UGC NET June 2025 Result Date Announced by NTA: Check Full Details

/ Education Community
education news

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially confirmed the result declaration date for the UGC NET June 2025 exam. As per the latest update, the results will be released on July 22, 2025. Candidates who took the exam can access their results through the official UGC NET website: ugcnet.nta.nic.in. This announcement was made through NTA’s verified X (formerly Twitter) account. Exam and Answer Key Timeline The UGC NET June 2025 examination was conducted from June 25 to June 29, 2025. The provisional answer key was issued on July 5, followed by the objection window, which remained open from July 6 to July 8, 2025. Result Declaration Process Explained The NTA follows a structured, multi-step process to determine eligibility and final results: Step I: A total of 6% of the candidates who appeared in both papers of the NET exam will qualify for eligibility as Assistant Professor, based on their performance and qualifying degree.  Step II: These qualifying slots are distributed among different categories as per the Government of India’s reservation norms.  Step III: Candidates must appear for both papers and obtain at least:  40% aggregate marks (for General and EWS categories)  35% aggregate marks (for reserved categories including SC, ST, OBC-NCL, PwD, and Third Gender) Step IV: Subject-wise qualifying cutoffs are calculated based on the number of slots available for each category. For example, in the subject ‘Economics’ for the SC category, the cut-off will be determined by the aggregate scores in both papers.  Step V: The total Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) slots are then allocated among various categories according to the reservation policy of the Government of India.  For further information, detailed criteria, and to check the result once it’s live, candidates are advised to visit the official UGC NET website: ugcnet.nta.nic.in. Source: Hindustan Times

UGC NET June 2025 Result Date Announced by NTA: Check Full Details Read More »

Cinepolis Eyes Double-Digit Growth in India Backed by Blockbuster Releases and Expansion Plans

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

Cinepolis, the Mexican cinema giant, is targeting strong double-digit revenue growth in its Indian operations this year, banking on a robust lineup of Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional films to lure audiences back to theatres. The company is also expanding its footprint, aiming to open 20–25 new screens across the country. Devang Sampat, Managing Director of Cinepolis India, said that this year’s impressive slate of films—spanning major Hollywood titles like Jurassic World: Rebirth and F1—combined with regional and Hindi-language blockbusters, could significantly boost footfall. However, theatre attendance still remains roughly 20% below pre-pandemic levels. “Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional cinema are all showing strength this year,” Sampat noted, adding that aggressive marketing collaborations with shopping malls and production studios will be key to driving admissions. Cinema chains are facing intensified competition from digital streaming platforms, live sports, and concerts, yet Cinepolis remains optimistic. Globally, the company operates 6,800 screens, with 485 in India alone. While Sampat declined to share 2024 revenue or profit figures, he stated that the chain has traditionally witnessed annual growth in the high single-digit to low double-digit range—excluding pandemic years. As per industry reports, Cinepolis generated ₹13.46 billion (approx. $156.6 million) in revenue for FY24, marking a 31% increase year-over-year. It also recorded a net profit of ₹321 million, its first annual profit in over five years. Meanwhile, rival PVR Inox, the largest multiplex operator in India, is expected to grow its revenue by around 18% in the current fiscal year. The company is planning to expand further by adding 100–110 screens to its network, which already exceeds 1,700. Analysts project that India’s multiplex industry will see a 20%–25% revenue surge in FY25, powered by high-profile releases like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Rajinikanth’s Coolie, and Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: Chapter 1, according to Shobit Singhal, a research analyst at Anand Rathi. Source: Reuters

Cinepolis Eyes Double-Digit Growth in India Backed by Blockbuster Releases and Expansion Plans Read More »