ArdorComm Media Group

Thursday, February 19, 2026 2:05 AM

skill development

Odisha to Provide Free Civil Services Coaching for Aspirants in Kalahandi

Civil service aspirants in Odisha’s Kalahandi district will soon have access to free coaching under a new initiative called Mission Akankhya. The programme, launched on Independence Day, is being rolled out through a partnership between the Kalahandi district administration and Vision IAS, New Delhi. As part of the agreement, signed by Kalahandi Collector Sachin Pawar and Vision IAS Vice-President Deepali Chaturvedi, the district administration will provide infrastructure support, while Vision IAS will offer training to 60 selected candidates annually. Students will be chosen through a written examination and interview, with coaching available in both classroom and online formats. Registration for the entrance test will open on August 22, and the selection exam is scheduled for September 21. The training sessions are expected to begin in Bhawanipatna from the first week of October. Chaturvedi highlighted that Vision IAS has previously extended similar initiatives to aspirational districts in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. However, this marks the first such programme in Odisha, aimed at empowering youth from Kalahandi, one of the districts identified under NITI Aayog’s Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP). Source: PTI

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Dr. D. B. Singh, Vice Chancellor, Haridwar University, Roorkee emphasizes on true collaboration, at ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2025 in Dehradun

Dr. D. B. Singh

Welcome, Professor Dr. Dharam Bir Singh. We’re honoured to have you with us. Could you tell us a bit about Haridwar University? Thank you so much. Haridwar University started in 2023, so we’re still quite a young institution. Being a new university comes with both opportunities and challenges. But we see great potential—sky is the limit. We currently offer programmes under five faculties: Engineering, Business Studies, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Agriculture. That’s a wide range—from medical sciences to management. How important do you think skilling is, and do you see a gap between skilling and employability? Yes, definitely. There is a gap. Students often have strong theoretical knowledge but lack hands-on skills and practical exposure. Bridging this gap is essential. We are already working with partners who specialise in providing enough skill training to our students. How has Haridwar University been implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020?   We’ve taken major steps this year. Earlier, we were affiliated with Uttarakhand Technical University, but now we have the autonomy to revise our curriculum. We’ve redesigned our syllabi in line with NEP 2020 and have included all the required components to meet the policy guidelines. Today’s event features stakeholders from schools to higher education, EdTech, skill development, and even government officials—truly a KG to PG representation. How do you think such forums benefit the academic community and society? This is a fine example of true collaboration. All stakeholders—schools, universities, corporates, and the government—must come together to work toward the common goal of student development. After all, today’s students are tomorrow’s citizens and leaders. Collective action is the only way forward. What has been your takeaway from the event so far? It’s been a wonderful experience. I attended a session with school principals and directors discussing real challenges in the education space. The conversations were insightful and solution-driven. I also visited several exhibition stalls, where I learned about various services being offered. Overall, a truly enriching day so far. We recently celebrated our fourth anniversary as a media startup. Would you like to share a message for ArdorComm Media Group? As they say, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step—and you have already taken four big ones. You’re calling yourself a small startup, but I see it from a different lens. I believe you are on a path to achieving much more than you’ve imagined. My best wishes to the entire team.

Dr. D. B. Singh, Vice Chancellor, Haridwar University, Roorkee emphasizes on true collaboration, at ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2025 in Dehradun Read More »

Dr. Sunil Rai, President, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun, Shares Insights on Collaboration, Flexibility & Purpose at ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2025 in Dehradun

Dr. Sunil Rai

Welcome to the event, Dr. Sunil Rai. What are your key takeaways from today’s Education Leadership Summit? Firstly, I would like to congratulate you and your entire team for putting together this event with a very timely theme—expanding education, skills, and employability. The major takeaway for me is the need for total collaboration between governance, industry, and educators. Only then can we build strong bridges and capitalize on each other’s resources effectively. In today’s era, sports seem to be vanishing from academic curricula. What’s your perspective on the role of sports in education? Sports are a crucial component of character and personality building. At UPES, sports are not considered extracurricular—they are incurricular. All students are required to follow a health routine, be it yoga, zumba, running, or trekking. Additionally, students must pick up a sport—field or individual. If they perform well at the district level, they even receive CGPA credits up to point 1 to point 5 which is quite substantial. So yes, sports should be embedded in the curriculum, not sidelined. The National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) emphasizes flexibility and inclusivity. What initiatives has UPES taken to align with this vision? We’ve implemented multiple NEP-aligned measures: Flexibility: Students can take up to 18 credits (6 exploratory courses) from any stream. For example, a law student can take a biotech course, or a biosciences student can explore design. Mobility: If a student realizes they’re in the wrong program (e.g., BTech X), they can switch as late as the end of the second year. Inclusivity: We ensure no student is denied education due to financial constraints. Financial support is arranged as needed. ArdorComm Media is celebrating its 4th anniversary. Any message or wishes for the team? Many congratulations on completing four impactful years. It doesn’t feel like just four years—you’ve already covered a remarkable distance. What stands out about ArdorComm is your sense of purpose. My advice is: don’t lose that. You’re not just another media company—you are making a difference. Stay true to your mission, and I wish you and your team continued success and impact.  

Dr. Sunil Rai, President, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun, Shares Insights on Collaboration, Flexibility & Purpose at ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2025 in Dehradun Read More »

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

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

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Gujarat Revises Factory Labour Laws: 12-Hour Shifts, Night Work for Women Permitted Under New Ordinance

In a bold move to enhance industrial productivity and attract greater investment, the Gujarat government has enacted a significant overhaul of its factory labour regulations. Through the Factories (Gujarat Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, the state has extended the permissible daily work hours in factories from 9 to 12 hours — a decision that comes with several conditions to safeguard workers’ rights and wellbeing. Although the daily shift limit has been expanded, the ordinance retains the weekly work cap at 48 hours. The new rules mandate that extended shifts must be voluntary and require written consent from workers. Another key change is the increase in uninterrupted work duration, which may now go up to six hours before a break, pending formal notification. Furthermore, overtime provisions have been revised significantly. Workers putting in extra hours will receive double pay, and the cap on overtime has been raised from 75 to 125 hours per quarter, again contingent upon the worker’s voluntary participation. A landmark provision in the amendment is the authorization for women to work night shifts — between 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM — a move hailed as progressive and inclusive. However, this comes with strict safety protocols: employers must ensure a minimum of 10 women are present during a shift, provide secure transport, install 24/7 CCTV surveillance, and deploy female security personnel. Crucially, women can only be scheduled for night shifts with their written consent, and workplaces must have robust anti-harassment measures in place. The ordinance was promulgated in the absence of a state assembly session and reflects Gujarat’s aim to position itself as a more flexible and investment-friendly industrial hub. By aligning labour practices with evolving economic demands, the state hopes to spur job creation and boost competitiveness in the manufacturing sector. Source: IANS

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Delhi Govt Expands Vocational Education: Skill-Based Courses Introduced in 257 More Schools

In a significant push towards integrating vocational training into mainstream education, the Delhi government has approved the rollout of skill-based subjects in 257 additional government schools starting this academic session, as per a circular issued by the Directorate of Education on May 23. These skill subjects fall under the Samagra Shiksha initiative and aim to equip students in Classes 9 and 11 with hands-on learning and industry-relevant skills alongside their regular curriculum. Each school can enroll up to 50 students per subject, encouraging broader participation in career-oriented learning. To guide students in making informed decisions, schools have been asked to conduct counselling sessions detailing the benefits and future prospects associated with these vocational courses. Notably, students entering Class 11 can opt for a skill subject even if they haven’t studied it in the earlier grades, thanks to the policy’s flexible multi-entry and multi-exit structure. However, participation in these skill subjects remains optional, not mandatory. Schools can offer these courses as additional learning avenues without making them compulsory for all students. As per CBSE norms, schools do not require separate permissions to introduce new vocational subjects. They simply need to update the necessary information on the CBSE portal. The National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) subjects being offered include practical disciplines such as Information Technology, Retail, Healthcare, and Beauty & Wellness—all designed to boost employability and prepare students for real-world careers. Source: PTI (Image: AI generated)    

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Tripura CM Manik Saha Highlights Nursing Education Expansion, Praises Students Heading to Japan

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha announced that the state government will explore ways to enhance nursing education in Tripura, following the success of students securing nursing jobs in Japan under the Specified Skill Workers Scheme. Speaking at an event at TIFT, CM Saha felicitated six candidates who have been trained under the Mukhya Mantri Dakhyata Unnayan Prakalpa and will soon begin their careers in Japan’s healthcare sector. Global Opportunities for Tripura’s Nursing Graduates CM Saha emphasized that ANM, GNM, and B.Sc Nursing graduates from the state have gained international job placements through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Japan. He also highlighted that many students have already migrated to Japan and that the government will continue sending more candidates. “These students are joining the nursing profession in Japan after receiving specialized training. To work there, they must learn Japanese, for which they are sent to Noida for a nine-month language training course. More students will be given this opportunity in the future,” said CM Saha. Pride for Tripura & India Calling it a “moment of great pride”, CM Saha urged students to represent Tripura and India with excellence in Japan. “Why should we just wait for jobs here? Our students are now going abroad, which is a very happy occasion. Nursing is a service profession, and as a medical faculty myself, I believe there is no greater field than this. They will serve people and uphold India’s reputation,” he added. Future Scope & Salary Prospects CM Saha further assured that the government is working on enhancing the quality of nursing education to create more global job opportunities for students. He also stated that those working in Japan will receive salaries exceeding ₹1 lakh per month. Industries and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, and State Government Secretary Kiran Gitte were among the dignitaries present at the event. Source: Business Standard  

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Odisha Launches PM-USHA Programme to Boost Higher Education

The Odisha government has launched the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA), a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the state’s higher education sector. The programme was introduced through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the state and the Union Education Ministry, with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan, and State Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj in attendance. Under PM-USHA, the central government will contribute Rs 500 crore towards the development and infrastructure of higher education institutions across Odisha. Union Minister Pradhan described the launch as a landmark moment for Odisha’s educational landscape, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision under the National Education Policy, 2020. Key Aspects of PM-USHA PM-USHA aims to ensure access, equity, and excellence in higher education across Odisha. The funding model includes 60 percent from the central government and 40 percent from the state, focusing on transforming state universities into world-class institutions equipped with 21st-century skills. Chief Minister Charan highlighted the initiative’s goal of upskilling one crore students and making Odisha a knowledge hub. Plans also include granting autonomy to state universities, revamping curricula, improving teacher training, and enhancing infrastructure and employability. The initiative promises to foster regional equity and sustainable development, aligning with the BJP’s election manifesto. Source: India today  

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Prof. Saramma Samuel, Secretary, RVS Group of Institutions emphasised on Teacher Training and Nurturing

“Our goal is to provide practical learning experiences, as classroom education is just the beginning. Through hands-on experiences, students gain valuable insights and skills relevant to their field.” Said Pradeepa Thinakaran What was your main takeaway from today’s event? Today’s event provided a vibrant platform for educators to exchange ideas and network. One significant takeaway was the acknowledgment of an uncertain future for students. We discussed the importance of preparing students to adapt and excel in uncertain situations. Can you highlight two best practices under your leadership in RV’s group of Institutions? One of our key practices is prioritizing teacher training and nurturing. We believe that well-trained educators positively impact student learning. Additionally, we have a dedicated training department focused on enhancing students’ communication skills, aptitude, and attitude to prepare them for employability. What does “New Normal” mean to you in the context of education? “New Normal” signifies resilience, adaptability, and integration of hybrid learning environments. It’s about persevering and not giving up despite challenges, embracing change, and finding innovative solutions. Could you discuss the initiatives related to skill development in your institution? We emphasize connecting students with industry practices beyond classroom teaching. Our goal is to provide practical learning experiences, as classroom education is just the beginning. Through hands-on experiences, students gain valuable insights and skills relevant to their field. Any words of encouragement for ArdorComm Media Group? I commend ArdorComm Media Group for their initiative, especially starting during the challenging period of COVID-19. Your efforts to bring together leaders and change-makers from different regions are commendable. Keep igniting the fire of innovation and leadership in all of us. Any final thoughts? It was a pleasure to participate in this event. Thank you for the opportunity, and I wish Ardorcom Media Group continued success in their endeavors.

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Dr. T. V. Christy, Vice Chancellor, Ponnaiyah Ramajayam Institute of Sc. & Tech. Vallam talked about four pillars of the New Education Policy (NEP)

“The New Normal is about being student-centric. Education should focus on where graduates go after graduation, anticipating their future needs. ” said  Dr. T. V. Christy Could you tell us more about your group of institutions? I am from The Ponnaiyah Ramajayam Institute of Science and Technology, famously known as PRIST deemed to be University, recognized by the University Grants Commission. It is located in Thanjavur, and we run programs in various disciplines, including engineering, arts and science, agriculture, pharmacy, and law. When we talk about sustainability in education, what special initiatives have been taken by your institution? We have empowered our students by first making them aware of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We conduct various sessions to ensure that our students and faculty members understand the importance and significance of these SDGs. Our management is very particular about integrating these goals into our educational practices. Regarding education policy implementations, what initiatives or developments have you undertaken? The four pillars of the New Education Policy (NEP) can be summarized as AE AQ: Accessibility, Equity, Accountability, and Quality. We ensure that these principles form the basis of our NEP implementation in our campuses. If the first three (Accessibility, Equity, Accountability) are in place, Quality naturally follows. What are the leading roles of your institution in terms of the incubation center and industry engagement? One of our best practices is ensuring that every faculty member is in touch with a minimum of two industries. For example, in a department with 15 faculty members, we have connections with 30 industries. Faculty members develop relationships with industry professionals, bring them to address students, and ultimately establish memorandums of understanding. This approach brings industry-oriented skills meaningfully into our university. What does the term ‘New Normal’ mean to you in the context of education? The New Normal is about being student-centric. Education should focus on where graduates go after graduation, anticipating their future needs. The goal is to foresee the skills and knowledge they will require three to four years after graduating and adapt our educational practices accordingly. This forward-thinking approach is what I consider the New Normal. How do forums like this, which bring together representatives from schools, higher education, skill education, technical education, and tech companies, benefit the society at large? I’m really touched by the name “ARCOM.” It stands for Community, Aspiration, Reimagination, Digitalization, Opportunity, and Readiness. These are exactly what we need in today’s educational scenario. Such forums motivate students and ensure they serve the community. Bringing industry leaders and educational leaders together provides a platform for sharing best practices and learning from each other. It’s an excellent initiative that should continue. Any message for ArdorComm Media Group? Continue your efforts and gather feedback from participants. Learn from any challenges or difficulties faced in conducting this program and strive to improve in future events. Bringing together industry and educational institutions on one platform is a mammoth task, and you are doing an exceptional job. Congratulations! Any final thoughts? Thank you so much for inviting me to this forum. It was a pleasure and honor to participate. Your efforts in connecting different stakeholders in education are commendable. Thank you.

Dr. T. V. Christy, Vice Chancellor, Ponnaiyah Ramajayam Institute of Sc. & Tech. Vallam talked about four pillars of the New Education Policy (NEP) Read More »