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Andhra Pradesh Govt Approves 10-Hour Workday Amid Widespread Protests

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In a controversial move, the Andhra Pradesh government, led by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), has given the green light to increase the standard workday from nine to ten hours across all private industries and factories. The decision, part of the state’s broader strategy to boost industrial growth and improve its Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) credentials, has sparked strong opposition from workers’ unions and political critics. Previously, the legal daily work limit in the state stood at eight hours before being increased to nine nearly a decade ago. The new amendment, which has been cleared by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s cabinet, now pushes that limit further, raising concerns about worker exploitation and fatigue. Information and Public Relations Minister K. Pardhasaradhi defended the move, stating that easing labour regulations would make Andhra Pradesh more attractive to investors and manufacturers. However, unions and opposition leaders have condemned the changes. V. Srinivasa Rao, State Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), criticized the decision, alleging that it was made under pressure from the central government to cater to corporate interests. “These amendments strip workers of their rights and reduce them to the status of modern-day slaves,” he said. Rao also highlighted the unfortunate timing of the decision, coming just weeks ahead of a nationwide labour strike on July 9 protesting such reforms. The Andhra Pradesh Factories Act previously restricted adult workers to a nine-hour day, with a mandatory 30-minute break after five hours of continuous work. Unions fear the new policy may allow factory management to unofficially stretch shifts beyond ten hours, possibly to 12 or more, under the guise of extended scheduling. Additional amendments include major changes to overtime and night shift regulations. Overtime eligibility has now been revised upward, from 75 to 144 hours, meaning workers will receive extra pay only after crossing this higher threshold. The government has also lifted restrictions on night shifts for women, with the provision of an extra paid holiday now left to the employer’s discretion rather than being a guaranteed benefit. Critics argue that these changes not only reduce worker protections but also jeopardize their health and wellbeing. “Pushing people to work beyond eight hours a day can have serious consequences on physical and mental health,” warned Dr. T. Seva Kumar, a general physician. As public backlash intensifies, the government’s attempt to court industrial investment is being met with growing resistance from labour organizations and civil society, who see the move as a step backward for workers’ rights. Source: Economic Times Photo Credit: HT

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New COVID-19 Subvariants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 Detected in India: INSACOG Report

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India has recorded the presence of two newly emerging COVID-19 subvariants—NB.1.8.1 and LF.7—according to recent data released by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG). While these variants are currently categorized as Variants Under Monitoring by the World Health Organization (WHO), they have been linked to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases across China and parts of Asia. As per the INSACOG data, a single case of NB.1.8.1 was identified in Tamil Nadu in April, while four cases of LF.7 were reported from Gujarat in May 2025. Despite these new detections, the dominant strain circulating in India remains JN.1, accounting for approximately 53% of the tested samples. It is followed by BA.2 (26%) and other Omicron-related variants (20%). Preliminary assessments by WHO suggest that NB.1.8.1 poses a low global public health risk, but the subvariant carries spike protein mutations—A435S, V445H, and T478I—that may enhance both transmissibility and the ability to evade immune responses. As of May 19, India reported 257 active COVID-19 cases. A high-level review meeting was recently convened, chaired by the Director General of Health Services, with participation from the ICMR, National Centre for Disease Control, and other leading health agencies to monitor the evolving situation. Meanwhile, certain states have shown localized spikes. Delhi reported 23 new cases, Andhra Pradesh had four, Telangana confirmed one, and Bengaluru recorded a positive case in a nine-month-old infant, reflecting a steady rise over the last 20 days. Kerala, in particular, reported 273 cases in May alone. Source: PTI

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Andhra Pradesh Sanctions 2,260 Special Education Teacher Posts to Boost Inclusive Learning

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In a landmark step towards strengthening inclusive education, the Government of Andhra Pradesh has sanctioned 2,260 new posts exclusively for special education teachers. This move is aimed at providing enhanced academic support to students with disabilities, particularly those with autism and mental challenges. According to the latest government order, 1,136 Special Grade Teacher (SGT) posts will be allocated at the primary level, while 1,124 School Assistant positions are sanctioned for secondary schools. These teachers will receive specialized training to address the unique learning requirements of children with special needs, fostering a more adaptive and inclusive educational environment. The District Selection Committee (DSC) is expected to release a recruitment notification soon. The selection process will assess candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and knowledge in special education, ensuring only well-equipped and empathetic educators take on these vital roles. Special education teachers are critical in tailoring instruction, modifying teaching methods, and supporting both the academic and social growth of students with disabilities. Their presence in classrooms is fundamental to nurturing an inclusive and empowering educational ecosystem. Welcoming the decision, the Andhra Pradesh Unemployed Special Teachers Federation (APUSTF) noted that this was a long-pending demand. The state had not recruited special educators in nearly seven years, and the federation had been advocating for their appointment for the past two years. APUSTF President M Venkata Naidu highlighted that the state has around 1.12 lakh children with special needs, and nearly 15,000 trained special educators have been awaiting the DSC notification. The new recruitment drive marks a hopeful turning point for inclusive education in Andhra Pradesh. Source: TOI

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AP Government to Form Advisory Panel on Good Governance with Experts from IIT Madras, Gates Foundation

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Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced the formation of a 10-member advisory council dedicated to enhancing good governance across the state. The council will include experts from prestigious institutions such as IIT Madras and the Gates Foundation, with a clear mandate to recommend impactful reforms aimed at improving citizen services and transparency. During a high-level review meeting at the State Secretariat focused on the Real Time Governance Society (RTGS), Naidu emphasized the need to leverage digital platforms—especially WhatsApp Governance—to deliver government services directly to citizens. He directed officials to bring all digitally available services under WhatsApp Governance by June 12 and to expedite the integration of real-time data systems to support this transformation. “The aim is to reach the last citizen with ease, speed, and accountability,” Naidu said, reiterating his vision for a fully tech-enabled government. Katamaneni Bhasker, Secretary of IT, informed the Chief Minister that while the potential exists to offer over 500 services through WhatsApp Governance, currently only 254 services have been integrated. The department is now aiming to scale this number to over 1,000 in the near future. In a further push for technological innovation, the state is also planning a masterplan for a “drone city” at Orvakallu, with ongoing efforts to position Andhra Pradesh as a hub for emerging tech and smart governance. With initiatives like the advisory council and rapid digital integration, Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as a frontrunner in citizen-centric governance backed by data, tech, and expert insights.

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Andhra Pradesh Partners with Wadhwani Foundation for AI-Driven Governance

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In a significant step toward AI-driven governance, the Andhra Pradesh government has signed an MoU with the Wadhwani Foundation (WF) to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Generative AI, and Drones into governance. The agreement was signed between Katamneni Bhaskar, Secretary of Information Technology, Electronics & Communication (ITE&C) Department, and Prakash Kumar, CEO of Wadhwani Centre for Government Digital Transformation (WGDT). Key Objectives: Enhancing service delivery and optimizing government schemes Implementing AI-driven solutions for greater efficiency and transparency Leveraging AI-based data analysis to refine policies and streamline programs Boosting citizen engagement through technology-enabled governance A critical component of this initiative is capacity building among government officials. The state will introduce an AI Bootcamp under WGDT’s ‘AI Champions’ and ‘AI Enablers’ programmes to train government employees in AI applications. Additionally, AI-enabled online resources will be provided for continuous digital learning. This partnership is a pro-bono effort, with both GoAP and WF contributing resources and expertise to drive effective AI adoption. Katamneni Bhaskar, Secretary of ITE&C, stated: “Andhra Pradesh is committed to leveraging AI for better governance and public service efficiency.” With this collaboration, Andhra Pradesh is set to become a pioneer in AI-powered governance, ensuring smarter policies and improved citizen services. Source: Indian Express

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Andhra Pradesh Government Dissolves Waqf Board for Improved Governance

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The Andhra Pradesh government has officially dissolved the AP State Waqf Board, citing the need for better governance, safeguarding of Waqf properties, and enhancing operational efficiency. The move comes after the revocation of a government order (GO) issued on October 21, 2023, which had previously appointed three elected members and seven nominated members to the 11-member board. In a new order issued on Saturday, K Harshavardhan, Secretary to the Government, stated: “In the interest of maintaining good governance, protecting Waqf properties, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the Waqf Board, the government hereby withdraws GO MS No. 47 (which constituted the board) with immediate effect.” The decision follows concerns raised by the Chief Executive Officer of the AP State Waqf Board, who informed the government of the board’s prolonged non-functionality. Additionally, multiple writ petitions challenging the legality of the previous GO had been filed in the High Court, prompting the state to reconsider the board’s structure. The High Court’s observations in these petitions played a critical role in influencing the government’s decision to dissolve the board, the order added. This action underscores the state’s intent to address inefficiencies and legal ambiguities that have hindered the Waqf Board’s performance. It remains to be seen how the government will restructure the board to ensure better governance while addressing the legal and administrative concerns raised during this process. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit: Business Standard

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Andhra Pradesh Government Partners with Meta to Drive Digital Governance

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On October 22, 2024, the Andhra Pradesh government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Meta Platforms Inc. to advance digital governance. This collaboration aims to leverage Meta’s WhatsApp Business Solution and generative AI technologies, such as Llama, to enhance e-governance services across the state. The MoU was signed in New Delhi at 1, Janpath. The partnership seeks to improve citizen-centric services by enabling direct communication between the government and its citizens through WhatsApp. In addition to facilitating governance-related updates, Meta’s AI technologies will initially focus on education and skilling, with the potential to expand to other domains. “This partnership aligns with our vision of making governance easier and improving the quality of life for all citizens. With Meta’s innovative technology, we aim to enhance the efficiency of our public services and ensure that governance is just a click away,” said Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh. Meta India Vice President Sandhya Devanathan highlighted the open access to AI models and the WhatsApp API, stating, “By making openly available AI models and WhatsApp API features accessible to all, we’re fostering innovation and democratizing access.” In a similar move, Meta also partnered with the Telangana government in September 2024 to enhance e-governance and citizen services through AI technologies, reflecting Meta’s growing role in India’s digital governance landscape.

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13th ArdorComm – ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ to be held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, on 15th November 2024

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As the world navigates through rapid shifts in the education landscape, driven by technological advancements and global challenges, it becomes crucial to cultivate future-ready skills and mindsets. In line with this evolving narrative, the 13th ArdorComm ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ is set to take place in the vibrant city of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, on 15th November  2024. Organized by ArdorComm Media Group, this landmark event brings together some of the brightest minds from education, government, and industry, all dedicated to shaping a better future for learners. With the overarching theme, Future-Forward Education: Cultivating Skills and Mindsets in the 21st Century Workplace, the summit will spark critical discussions and explore how education can adapt to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. Why Andhra Pradesh? As a rising star in India’s educational ecosystem, Andhra Pradesh is rapidly transforming into a hub for innovation in education and skilling. Cities like Visakhapatnam, Amaravati, Vijayawada, and Tirupati host prestigious institutions known for their national and global recognition. The state’s Education Department, in collaboration with forward-thinking leaders, has rolled out initiatives like “Mana Badi Nadu-Nedu,” which pushes digital classrooms, smart learning technologies, and other transformative reforms. Programs like Jagananna Amma Vodi, Vidya Kanuka, and Gorumudda showcase the state’s mission-driven approach to reshaping education, focusing on nurturing global citizens of the future. What to Expect at the Summit? Event Highlights: Date: 18th October 2024 Location: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh Sessions: 6+ Speakers: 50+ Schools Represented: 75+ Higher Education Institutions: 150+ Government Dignitaries: 10+ Corporate Representatives: 15+ EdTech Startups: 15+ This prestigious summit will provide a space for Academicians, Educators, Edupreneurs, HR professionals, Startups, EdTech pioneers, and Industry leaders to come together, share insights, and engage in transformative discussions. The event’s focus is on creating an ecosystem that not only embraces technological advancements but also addresses the critical need for emotional resilience, career preparedness, and data-driven decision-making in educational institutions. Key Discussion Points Attendees can look forward to discussions on pivotal topics such as: Leveraging AI and EdTech: Enhancing Student Engagement and Personalized Learning Future-Forward Education: Cultivating Skills and Mindsets in 21st Century Workplace Building Emotional Resilience: Integrating Social-Emotional Learning into the Curriculum Data-Driven Decision Making: How Analytics Can Transform Educational Strategies and Outcomes Harnessing Digital Tools:Transforming Traditional Classrooms into Dynamic Learning Environments Preparing Students for Future Careers: Aligning Education with Emerging Industry Trends and Skills ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2024 In addition to the summit, ArdorComm Media will celebrate the remarkable achievements of individuals and institutions that have been instrumental in transforming the education sector. From adapting to the “New Normal” to spearheading innovative teaching, learning, and skilling practices, awardees have demonstrated unparalleled dedication to educational excellence. The ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2024 will recognize: Preschools Schools Higher Education Institutions Skills & Training Organizations Corporates Startups By honoring these trailblazers, ArdorComm aims to bring recognition and visibility to those shaping the future of education through their commitment to re-skilling, innovation, and global adaptability. Award Nominations and Selection Process The nomination process for the awards is designed to ensure fairness and recognize contributions across various educational segments. Categories include: Preschool Award School Education Award Higher Education Award Skills & Training Awards Corporate Award Startup Award This year’s selection process will highlight innovative initiatives, exceptional leadership, and ground-breaking transformations in teaching and learning practices. For more details visit https://ardorcomm-media.com/elsavisakhapatnam/#awards Join Us in Celebrating Education’s Future The 13th ArdorComm ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ promises to be an inspiring event, bringing together thought leaders and visionaries from across the education sector. The event will serve as a platform for dialogue, innovation, and recognition, aimed at setting the stage for a brighter, more sustainable future in education. Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, industry expert, or EdTech innovator, this summit is an unmissable opportunity to engage with peers, share knowledge, and drive impactful change. We look forward to seeing you at this momentous occasion in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, as we work together to forge a path toward the future of education. Be part of the conversation. Be part of the change. Register Now! #ELSAAndhraPradesh #ELSAVizag #ELSAVisakhapatnam #ArdorComm #NewNormal

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13th ArdorComm – ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’

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13th ArdorComm – ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ #AELSA2025 #AELSAJammu #EducationLeadershipSummit Theme : Future-Forward Education: Cultivating Skills and Mindsets in 21st Century Workplace ArdorComm Media Group, a growing media organisation in India, is hosting 13th New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh on 15th November 2024 ‘Andhra Pradesh’ is continuously progressing towards being a desired destination of education and skilling initiatives in India. Along with Visakhapatnam (Vizag) there are more beautiful cities like Amaravati, Anantapur, Vizianagaram, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Mangalagiri, Kurnool, Sri City, Guntur, comprising of many prestigious higher education, technical institutions & schools with improved national assessment and accreditation grades. Government is rolling out the long-term objective of grooming the students as global citizens with a bright future. Education Department has launched a series of initiatives as part of reforms, in mission mode like “Mana Badi Nadu-Nedu”, utilisation of IFPs, Smart TVs, Tabs which gave a big-push to digital transformation from the conventional classrooms, Innovative schemes like Jagananna Amma Vodi, Vidya Kanuka and Gorumudda and comprehensive academic, administrative reforms and many skill reforms. Academicians, Educators, Edupreneurs, HRs, Startups, Edtech & Industry leaders will converge to share their insights, experiences, and accomplishments, all in pursuit of sustainable growth for the education community. ArdorComm media will recognise and honour individuals – institutions whose contribution have tirelessly worked towards the betterment of education, shaping a brighter future for learners worldwide. Join us to experience this moment of celebration & knowledge sharing!! Day 0 SESSIONS 0 + SPEAKERS 0 + SCHOOLS 0 + HIGHER EDUCATION 0 + GOVERNMENT DIGNITARIES 0 + CORPORATE 0 + EDTECH STARTUPS 0 + KEY DISCUSSION POINTS Leveraging AI and EdTech: Enhancing Student Engagement and Personalized Learning Future-Forward Education: Cultivating Skills and Mindsets in 21st Century Workplace Building Emotional Resilience: Integrating Social-Emotional Learning into the Curriculum Data-Driven Decision Making: How Analytics Can Transform Educational Strategies and Outcomes Harnessing Digital Tools:Transforming Traditional Classrooms into Dynamic Learning Environments Preparing Students for Future Careers: Aligning Education with Emerging Industry Trends and Skills PARTICIPATION FROM Government Academia Universities Engineering Inst B-Schools K-12 Preschools Startups HRs EdTech OUR SPEAKERS OUR PARTNERS Host PRESENTING PARTNER Gold Partner EdTech Partner Online Learning Partner Display Solution Partner OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS EDUCATION HEALTH & WELLNESS HUMAN RESOURCE GOVERNANCE MEDIA ENTERTAINMENT & ART PAST PARTNERS ARDORCOMM EDUCATION LEADERSHIP AWARDS 2024 Indian Educators, Academicians, Institutions, EdTech companies & Startups have set an incredible example of excellence in front of the whole world during this unprecedented times, by adapting changes, transforming, re-skilling & re-inventing, ArdorComm Media, a growing media company in India has announced “New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024” to recognize & felicitate the exemplary contributions and innovative initiatives taken by the Preschools, Schools, Higher educational institutions, Corporate and EdTech Startups associated with the education sector. ArdorComm Media would like to honor the Trendsetters, Innovators, Education Leaders, Institutions and Organizations that have been providing excellence and outstanding accomplishment in the education sector. Ardorcomm Education Leadership Awards 2024 aims to acknowledge those individuals, educational institutions, and EdTech companies that have played a key role in transforming the teaching, learning and employability outcomes. The prestigious award will bring recognition and visibility for an institution/ organization across the sector. This summit will bring together the top notch industry leaders and key decision makers from the education sector, to enrich the community by sharing their insights and knowledge with the stakeholders, which will eventually bring a paradigm shift in the education sphere within various parts of the country. Past Glimpses AGENDA Time Topic 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM Panel 1 -: Leveraging AI and EdTech: Enhancing Student Engagement and Personalized Learning 9:45 AM – 10:40 AM Inaugural Session:- Future-Forward Education: Cultivating Skills and Mindsets in 21st Century Workplace 10: 40 AM – 11:00 AM Fireside Chat 11:00 AM – 11:15 AM Networking Tea 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM Panel 2 :- Building Emotional Resilience: Integrating Social-Emotional Learning into the Curriculum 12:15 PM- 12:25 PM Industry Speech 1 12:25 PM – 12:45 PM Industry Speech 2 12:45 PM -1:45 PM Panel 3 :- Data-Driven Decision Making: How Analytics Can Transform Educational Strategies and Outcomes 1:45 PM – 2:20 PM Networking Lunch 2:20 PM – 3:30 PM Panel 4 – HE :- Harnessing Digital Tools: Transforming Traditional Classrooms into Dynamic Learning Environments 3:30 PM – 3:40 PM Industry Speech 3 3:40 PM – 04:30 PM Panel 5 – HE :- Preparing Students for Future Careers:Aligning Education with Emerging Industry Trends and Skills 4:30 PM – 04:45 PM Networking Tea 04:45 PM – 6:00 PM Valedictory Session: Felicitation & Award Ceremony Time Topic 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM Inaugural Session :- INDIA’s Vision 2030: A Move to Improve Education & Skills in 21st Century Workplace 11:00 AM – 11:15 AM Networking Tea 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM Panel 1 :- Disruptive Technologies Transforming Education in the 21st Century 12:15 PM – 12:25 PM Industry Speech 1 12:25 PM- 12:35 PM Industry Speech 2 12:35 PM – 1:35 PM Panel 2 :- Need of an Effective Early Childhood (ECE) Curriculum for a Sustainable Development Goal. 1:35 PM – 2:15 PM Networking Lunch 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM Panel 3 :- STEM-based learning and skill-based education, most progressive education trends 3:15 PM – 3:25 PM Industry Speech 3 3:25 PM – 3:35 PM Industry Speech 4 3:35 PM – 4:25 PM Panel 4 :- How NEP 2020 Policy Aims to make Education More Inclusive, Equitable, and Holistic? 4:25 PM – 4:40 PM Networking Tea 4:40 PM – 4:50 PM Industry Speech 5 4:50 PM – 6:00 PM Valedictory, Felicitation & Award Ceremony Venue Fairfield by Marriott Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh Ksr Prime R&B Junction, Andhra Pradesh, 530018  Testimonials “Platforms like the New Normal Education Leadership Summit and Awards in New Delhi by ArdorComm Media are the right platforms where we can connect and curate education for today’s modern children. At the end of the day, everyone wants to see value education in our country, Bharat, which will curate the life of

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