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IIM Sambalpur Unveils New Undergraduate Programmes in Public Policy and AI to Shape Future Leaders

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In a strategic move aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur has launched two groundbreaking undergraduate programmes: Bachelor of Science in Management and Public Policy and Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. These four-year, fully residential programmes are designed to nurture future-ready professionals with a blend of analytical, ethical, and leadership skills. The BSc in Management and Public Policy targets students interested in driving grassroots change, with a curriculum that emphasizes sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, and community-led development. The programme aspires to bridge the gap between policy formulation and real-world impact. Admissions to this course will be facilitated through the Common University Entrance Test (CUET). Meanwhile, the BSc in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders, aims to boost India’s digital transformation journey and enhance global competitiveness. It focuses on cultivating ethical AI use, advanced data analytics, and innovation-driven problem-solving. Entry into this programme will be via JEE Main scores. Highlighting the institution’s progressive approach, the courses are structured with multiple entry and exit options—students can earn a certificate after one year, a diploma after two, a degree after three, and an honors degree upon completing the fourth year. This flexibility is intended to support diverse learner pathways in line with NEP 2020 goals. IIM Sambalpur Director, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, expressed pride in the launch, calling it a “pioneering step” in cultivating responsible, entrepreneurial leaders. “These programmes are not only about acquiring academic knowledge; they’re about building leaders equipped with a global outlook and the compassion to address societal challenges,” he noted. The launch event also featured a roundtable discussion on the theme: ‘Global Capability Centres (GCCs) as Engines of Innovation for Global Enterprises’. The dialogue spotlighted the emerging role of GCCs as strategic, innovation-led units rather than cost-effective back-offices. Bramhanand Jha, Vice President at the National eGovernance Division (MeitY), served as the chief guest. He emphasized the transformative role of GCCs in shaping future-ready, tech-enabled enterprises that drive global business strategies. Keynote speakers included Lt. Col. Piyush Shukla, Director of JEE at the National Testing Agency (NTA), and Rajesh Kumar, Director of CUET at NTA. Both underlined the significance of evolving India’s education assessment systems to support innovation, inclusivity, and talent discovery aligned with the country’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. “The education landscape in India is being reshaped to identify talent capable of thriving in dynamic, innovation-driven environments like GCCs,” said Shukla. Kumar added that initiatives like CUET are vital to democratizing access to quality higher education and preparing students for leadership in a global digital economy. The launch concluded with insightful panel discussions featuring academic and industry experts on “Transforming Operations through GCCs: The Digital Shift from Cost Efficiency to Strategic Value” and “Aligning Talent Upskilling with Policy Innovation for Sustainable GCC Growth.” With this initiative, IIM Sambalpur reaffirms its commitment to fostering responsible, innovation-driven leadership that is attuned to the evolving demands of both national and global landscapes. Admissions for both UG programmes will begin in June 2025, with classes set to commence in September 2025. Source: Indian Express Photo Credit: IIM Sambalpur

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IBM Integrates AI to Streamline HR Operations, Replaces 200 Roles

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In a significant move toward embracing artificial intelligence (AI), IBM has begun a strategic overhaul of its internal processes, leading to the replacement of around 200 human resources (HR) positions with AI-powered systems. This development reflects a broader industry shift where automation is being leveraged to handle repetitive administrative tasks, freeing up human workers to focus on more strategic and client-centric responsibilities. According to reports from industry insiders, the tech giant has already automated several HR functions such as employee verification and internal job transfers. These changes are part of IBM’s vision to drive operational efficiency while simultaneously upskilling its workforce to thrive in an AI-integrated future. IBM’s CEO, Arvind Krishna, recently confirmed that hundreds of HR roles have been transitioned to AI agents. However, he emphasized that this transformation has not led to a decline in overall employment. On the contrary, the company has expanded its workforce in key areas like programming, marketing, and sales—fields that rely on critical thinking and interpersonal skills, and are thus less susceptible to automation. Strategic Shift Towards AI-Augmented Roles The decision to automate portions of the HR function is rooted in IBM’s broader objective of enabling employees to engage in higher-value work. By offloading routine tasks to AI, the organization aims to allow HR professionals to focus on strategic planning, employee engagement, and other complex functions that require human insight. Nickle LaMoreaux, IBM’s Chief Human Resources Officer, noted that the impact of AI on jobs is more about transformation than elimination. She clarified that while certain tasks will be automated, most roles will evolve rather than disappear—enabling professionals to work alongside AI tools that boost productivity and decision-making. Looking Ahead IBM anticipates that up to 30% of back-office roles, particularly those with minimal customer interaction, could be affected by AI within the next five years. This could influence approximately 7,800 positions globally. Nonetheless, the company remains committed to investing in talent across creative, analytical, and tech-driven domains—areas that continue to demand human ingenuity despite rapid advances in automation. Source: The New Indian Express Image credit: Shutterstock

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Elon Musk’s xAI Acquires X Corp in an $80 Billion Merger

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In a groundbreaking move, Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company, xAI, has acquired X Corp (formerly Twitter) in an all-stock transaction. The deal values xAI at $80 billion and X at $33 billion, including $12 billion in debt, marking a major shift in the AI and social media landscape. The Strategic Fusion Announcing the merger on X, Musk stated, “xAI and X’s futures are intertwined. Today, we officially take the step to combine the data, models, compute, distribution, and talent.” This merger is set to leverage xAI’s advanced artificial intelligence capabilities alongside X’s 600-million-strong user base. By integrating AI with real-time data, the move aims to enhance user experience and accelerate AI-driven knowledge discovery. Musk’s Financial Masterstroke Musk initially acquired Twitter in 2022 for $44 billion, facing skepticism over the hefty price tag. However, this latest merger reinforces his long-term vision—aligning AI with social media to create an unparalleled communication ecosystem. The deal also establishes a new holding company in Texas, with Musk maintaining control over X’s existing debt. Impact on AI and Social Media With X’s vast data stream, xAI is poised to rival industry giants in artificial intelligence. The merger will significantly enhance xAI’s chatbot, Grok, granting it real-time language learning capabilities. This could propel xAI to the forefront of artificial general intelligence (AGI) development. What This Means for Users For X users, the merger promises AI-driven enhancements, smarter interactions, and improved content recommendations. However, concerns around data privacy, content moderation, and AI’s growing influence in communication remain key discussion points. As Musk stated, “This is just the beginning.” The tech world now eagerly watches how this fusion of AI and social media will redefine the digital experience.

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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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Digital Transformation to Boost Indian Media Revenue Growth to 8% by FY2027

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The Indian media industry is projected to witness annual revenue growth of 8% by FY2027, driven by the increasing shift toward digital platforms, according to a recent CRISIL Ratings report. This marks an improvement from the 5% annual growth recorded between FY2019 and FY2024. The report, which analyzed 20 media companies accounting for 55% of the industry’s revenue, estimates that media revenue will reach approximately ₹60,000 crore by FY2027. Alongside revenue expansion, operating margins are expected to improve by nearly 500 basis points (bps) to 18%, aided by cost rationalization. Key Growth Drivers: Rising digital ad revenue as consumer preferences shift to online content Growth in traditional ad revenue from print, fueled by domestic retail demand in FMCG, automobiles, education, e-commerce, and real estate Increasing smartphone penetration, low-cost mobile data (approx. $0.2 per GB), and widespread 5G adoption Despite the delayed digital transformation by Indian media firms, the segment’s revenue share is expected to increase from 12% in FY2024 to over 18% by FY2027. However, high manpower, content creation, and marketing costs have kept digital ventures unprofitable, with the industry reporting a 20% operating loss in FY2024. Manish Gupta, Senior Director at CRISIL Ratings, stated: “To better leverage the digital wave, media companies have begun focusing on OTT platforms, social media, and mobile apps.” However, improved targeted advertising and customer segmentation are expected to enhance digital profitability, according to Ankit Hakhu, Director at CRISIL Ratings. At least 8 out of 20 companies in the study have successfully identified the right audience fit, allowing for more cost-effective promotional strategies. The report also warns of potential risks, particularly fluctuations in newsprint (NP) prices, which account for 30-40% of costs. Unexpected price surges, like the 23% spike in FY2023, could impact overall industry profitability. Conclusion: With an accelerated digital shift and stronger ad revenues, India’s media industry is poised for sustained growth. However, firms will need to optimize digital investments and mitigate supply chain risks to fully capitalize on this transformation. Source: Business Standard

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Onsurity Partners with Snowflake to Revolutionize Data Infrastructure

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Bangalore-based Onsurity, a leading employee healthcare platform, has partnered with AI-driven data cloud platform Snowflake to enhance its data infrastructure. The collaboration aims to improve scalability, real-time data availability, and AI-driven innovation across Onsurity’s business verticals. By leveraging Snowflake’s advanced features, Onsurity can now process large data volumes efficiently, optimize costs, and refine its healthcare insurance services for SMEs and startups. The company, which serves over 8,000 businesses, plans to integrate AI and machine learning within Snowflake’s environment to personalize healthcare offerings and predict user trends. “Our teams now have faster access to insights, allowing us to tailor services based on real-time user behavior,” said Sarvendu Singh, CTO of Onsurity. He emphasized that Snowflake’s rapid deployment, security, and compliance features make it the ideal choice for scaling operations while maintaining cost efficiency. Onsurity utilizes Snowflake’s Change Data Capture (CDC) to extract incremental data changes, ensuring real-time insights without duplication. The partnership also addresses key challenges like data governance and role-based access control, enhancing security and operational efficiency. As India’s insurance sector continues to grow, Onsurity’s AI-driven transformation positions it at the forefront of the industry, setting a new benchmark for data-driven healthcare solutions. Source: Economic Times

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PM Modi Highlights Role of Digital Public Infrastructure and AI in Global Inclusive Growth

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the transformative potential of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and data-driven governance in achieving inclusive global growth. Responding to a post by WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the PM highlighted their pivotal role in reshaping lives worldwide: “Thank you for your support and valuable insights. The emphasis on Digital Public Infrastructure, AI and data for governance is key to achieving inclusive growth and transforming lives globally.” Strengthening SDGs with Technology PM Modi’s vision aligns with global initiatives like the Global Digital Compact and the Global DPI Summit 2024, which underscore the need for equitable deployment of technology. The seamless integration of DPI and AI is proving instrumental in creating jobs, enhancing healthcare and education, and reducing inequality. Technology, when inclusive and citizen-centric, unlocks new avenues for growth and strengthens faith in democratic principles. Systems built with open, interoperable, and scalable designs enable businesses of all sizes to connect efficiently, empowering families and communities while fostering economic resilience. Prioritizing Privacy and Trust PM Modi stressed the need for transparent, secure, and equitable data governance principles to protect privacy and intellectual property while ensuring trust in digital systems. Foundational and frontier AI models trained on diverse datasets were highlighted as critical for accommodating global cultural and linguistic diversity. Indian Culture Resonates Globally In a separate post, PM Modi lauded Jonas Masetti and his team for promoting Indian culture through their Sanskrit performance of the Ramayan. “It is commendable how Indian culture is making an impact all over the world. I had mentioned Jonas during a #MannKiBaat program for his passion towards Vedanta and the Gita,” the PM said. This dual emphasis on leveraging modern technology and celebrating cultural heritage underscores India’s holistic approach to sustainable, inclusive development on the global stage. Source: pmindia.Gov.in Photo Credit: pmindia.Gov.in

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Who is Subodh Kumar Singh, NTA Chief Removed After NEET, NET ‘Leaks’?

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Subodh Kumar Singh, the chief of the National Testing Agency (NTA), was removed from his position on Saturday night following allegations of irregularities in the NEET-UG and UGC-NET exams. Singh has been placed on compulsory wait in the Department of Personnel and Training, while retired 1985 batch officer Pradeep Singh Karola has been appointed as the interim chief until a permanent replacement is named. Over the past two months, the NTA has faced scrutiny over alleged paper leaks and irregularities in two of India’s major competitive examinations. Subodh Kumar Singh, who has maintained a low profile throughout his career, found himself at the center of this controversy. A native of Uttar Pradesh, Singh holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee and an MBA from the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi. Before his appointment as NTA chief in June 2023, Singh served as the additional secretary in the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. Singh’s career includes nine years at the Chhattisgarh Secretariat from 2009 to 2018, where he worked under the state’s three-time BJP Chief Minister Raman Singh. He held various positions, including joint secretary, deputy secretary in personnel and general administration, special secretary, and director for personnel management. He also served as the secretary to the Chief Minister, managing director of the state’s electricity distribution department, and secretary of the mineral resources and industries and commerce department. During his tenure in Chhattisgarh, Singh was credited with significant achievements such as digitizing the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), transforming the state’s mineral sector, and improving road connectivity in Naxal-affected areas. He also played a key role in developing airports in Jagdalpur, Bilaspur, and Ambikapur, and expanding the state’s rail network. Despite being perceived as close to former Chief Minister Raman Singh, Singh was appreciated by leaders across political lines for his work. His tenure remained free from major controversies, even amidst corruption allegations against Raman Singh’s government. In recognition of his contributions, Singh received a national award in 2002 from the Ministry of Rural Development for excellence in implementing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. In 2019, he received another national award for digital transformation and transparency in mineral auctioning. Colleagues describe Singh as an “honest and straightforward” officer. A retired colleague from the CMO referred to him as “a gem of an officer and an asset to the government,” calling for a thorough inquiry into the current allegations against him.

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