In a move aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability, the Maharashtra School Education Department has initiated a comprehensive mapping of all teaching and non-teaching staff positions across government and aided schools in the state. This major exercise will align all staff posts with the approved ‘Sanction Structure’ and validate these positions against salary records in the state’s official payment processing system, Shalarth.

Mapping for Accountability

According to a recent report by Hindustan Times, the Maharashtra government has issued directives to all government, fully-aided, and partially-aided secondary schools, directing them to complete this mapping process by the end of June 2025. The initiative will involve verifying every teaching and non-teaching position against the Sanction Structure and matching these with salary records on the Shalarth portal, which is used for processing staff payments.

The mapping process will leverage an Application Programming Interface (API) developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), allowing the education department to cross-check the data submitted by schools for accuracy. Schools will be required to upload a PDF copy of their completed Sanction Structure mapping before the release of July salaries in August. Any institution failing to comply will face salary disbursement restrictions.

This exercise is a direct response to growing concerns about financial mismanagement in school staffing, including payments made to unauthorised or non-existent employees. The education department has made it clear that strict action will be taken against schools and staff who fail to comply with the new data submission guidelines. Salaries will be withheld in cases where schools delay or neglect the mapping process.

A senior education officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Hindustan Times, “We are taking a data-driven approach to ensure that only legitimate employees are drawing salaries from government funds. The mapping of posts and salary systems will bring transparency and accountability at every level.”

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Implications and Potential as a National Model

This initiative has the potential to become a model for other states seeking to ensure transparency in education funding. If successful, the mapping drive can eliminate the problem of “ghost employees,” ensure the fair distribution of government funds, and prevent the influence of politically-backed illegal appointments. However, it also places significant pressure on school administrations, which must ensure complete and accurate data submission.

While the drive promotes accountability, there is a risk of administrative overload, especially in remote or understaffed schools. The use of digital tools, such as the API integration with Shalarth, is a positive step, but effective implementation will depend on user training and technical support.

If proven effective, Maharashtra’s staff mapping initiative could serve as a blueprint for other states in India to adopt a similar approach, ensuring that education funds are used solely for legitimate purposes.

Indian students are increasingly looking beyond traditional study-abroad destinations like the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. According to a recent report by Gradding.com, a study-abroad platform, the number of Indian students choosing countries like Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai has surged by 38%. This trend marks a significant shift in the preferences of Indian students seeking global education.

While the US, UK, and Australia have long been popular choices, the tightening of immigration policies and restrictive post-study visa rules in these countries have caused a decline in student interest. Canada experienced the biggest drop in Indian student enrollments at 41%, followed by the UK with a 27.7% decline and the US with 13%. In contrast, Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai have become preferred alternatives due to their globally recognised institutions, affordable education, and strong job markets.

Mamta Shekhawat, founder of Gradding.com, highlighted the changing landscape, stating, “The evolving preferences of Indian students reflect a transformative shift in global education dynamics. With destinations like Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai offering quality education, affordability, and strong career prospects, we’re witnessing a more informed and strategic approach to overseas education.”

The numbers reinforce this shift. The total number of Indian students studying abroad rose from 750,365 in 2022 to 892,989 in 2023, with a notable increase in those opting for lesser-explored destinations. Singapore, for instance, recorded a 25% year-on-year growth in Indian student enrolment.

The rise of these new destinations is attributed to their student-friendly policies, industry partnerships, and focus on emerging sectors such as finance, technology, and healthcare. As Indian students continue to explore alternative destinations, universities in Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai are expected to see a steady influx, reshaping the global education map.

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In the wake of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government has launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure across the border. This military action has prompted heightened security measures nationwide, including the closure of schools in several border districts and the initiation of Operation Abhyaas—a nationwide civil defence mock drill aimed at bolstering emergency preparedness.

As a precautionary step, educational institutions in border districts of Punjab (Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur), Rajasthan (Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Barmer), and Jammu & Kashmir have been temporarily closed. These closures aim to ensure the safety of students and staff amid potential cross-border hostilities. 

Operation Abhyaas: Enhancing Emergency Preparedness

Simultaneously, the Ministry of Home Affairs has initiated Operation Abhyaas, a comprehensive civil defence exercise conducted across 244 districts. This drill encompasses activities such as air-raid siren tests, blackout simulations, evacuation procedures, and public training sessions. In Delhi, for instance, 55 locations are participating in the drill, involving students, teachers, and civil defence volunteers. 

Addressing Student Anxiety and Promoting Well-being

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The current climate of uncertainty and the implementation of mock drills can understandably lead to anxiety among students. Educators and school administrators play a pivotal role in mitigating these concerns:

• Open Communication: Provide age-appropriate explanations about the drills and current events, reassuring students about the measures taken for their safety.

• Emotional Support: Encourage students to express their feelings and provide support through counseling services or designated safe spaces within the school.

• Routine and Normalcy: Maintain regular school routines to provide a sense of stability and normalcy for students.

• Parental Involvement: Engage with parents to keep them informed and involved in addressing their children’s concerns.

While the current geopolitical situation necessitates heightened security and preparedness, it is crucial to balance these measures with the emotional and psychological well-being of students. Through proactive communication, support, and engagement, educators can help students navigate these challenging times with resilience and understanding.

The Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduate admissions (CUET-UG) 2025, originally scheduled to commence on May 8, is likely to be postponed, according to sources close to the National Testing Agency (NTA). While an official confirmation is still awaited, fresh dates for the examination are expected to be announced shortly.

The delay follows the recently concluded NEET-UG examination—an extensive exercise that required significant logistical oversight, especially as NEET had faced scrutiny last year over alleged integrity lapses.

Despite the approaching exam date, the NTA has yet to release the subject-wise date sheet for CUET-UG 2025, adding to the anticipation and confusion among over 1.35 million applicants—marking the highest-ever number of registrations for the exam since its inception.

This year, CUET-UG will be conducted exclusively in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, signifying a notable departure from the hybrid format adopted in 2024. The hybrid model was introduced to accommodate varied digital access across regions, but also led to logistical complications. In fact, the 2024 CUET-UG exam was abruptly cancelled across Delhi the night before it was scheduled due to operational constraints.

The first edition of CUET-UG in 2022 was marred by technical issues and inconsistencies across multiple shifts, necessitating a complex score normalisation process. The shift to a fully CBT format this year is expected to streamline operations, but the current delay and lack of clarity raise questions about preparedness.

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As undergraduate admissions in central universities and several private institutions are now tied to CUET-UG, any delay in the exam calendar has a cascading effect on the academic schedule.

Students and stakeholders are advised to monitor the official NTA website for updates on the revised dates and examination guidelines.

The Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, has officially opened nominations for the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) 2025, a national-level award that celebrates the exceptional achievements of children across the country. The last date to submit nominations is 31st July 2025, and applications must be submitted online via the official Rashtriya Puraskar Portal.

Open to children aged between 5 and 18 years as on 31 July 2025, the PMRBP recognises outstanding contributions in six categories: Bravery, Social Service, Environment, Sports, Art & Culture, and Science & Technology. Children may be nominated by individuals or institutions, and self-nominations are also allowed.

To apply, nominators must register on the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal with essential details such as name, date of birth, contact information, and Aadhaar number. After logging in, users must select “Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025” under the ongoing nominations section. The application requires a detailed description (maximum 500 words) of the nominee’s achievement and its societal impact, along with supporting documents and a recent photograph.

Do you know a young hero whose story can inspire the entire nation?
Nominate them today at 👉 https://t.co/7nl4GXleo8
Hurry! The last date to submit is 31st July 2025.#PMRBP2025 #VeerBaalDiwas@PIBWCD | @mygovindia | @PMOIndia | @EduMinOfIndia pic.twitter.com/i3gVto5gzh

— Ministry of WCD (@MinistryWCD) May 2, 2025

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The award, conferred annually by the President of India at a ceremonial function in New Delhi, is regarded as one of the highest civilian honours for children. It aims to inspire India’s youth by showcasing exemplary stories of courage, innovation, and leadership among peers.

At a time when young people are shaping conversations on climate, technology, arts, and inclusive change, initiatives like the PMRBP are a powerful reminder that excellence can begin early—and deserves national recognition.

For detailed eligibility criteria and application guidelines, visit https://awards.gov.in.

Over two decades since it first opened its doors to the children of the mountains, Druk Padma Karpo School in Ladakh—popularly known as Rancho’s School from the iconic film 3 Idiots—has officially received affiliation from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). This marks a significant milestone for the cold desert institution that has long stood at the intersection of innovative education and cinematic fame.

A Long Journey to Recognition

Founded in 2001 and lauded for its unconventional teaching methods and sustainable campus, the school was until recently affiliated with the Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education (JKBOSE). Despite meeting high academic and infrastructural standards, the school faced delays in securing the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) from JKBOSE.

“We had been trying to get CBSE affiliation even before Ladakh became a Union Territory,” shared Principal Mingur Angmo. “Now, with the affiliation in place, our first batch of Class 10 students has already appeared for their CBSE board exams.”

The affiliation brings with it new opportunities: the school is preparing to expand its offerings up to Class 12 by 2028 and is currently training its teachers to align with CBSE’s evolving curriculum—especially in the wake of the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020).

Where Cinema Meets Classroom

Made famous as the backdrop for several scenes in 3 Idiots, including the now-legendary “Rancho’s Wall,” Druk Padma Karpo has become a frequent stop for tourists visiting Ladakh. The wall was relocated in 2018 to reduce disruptions to the school’s learning environment, but its legacy continues.

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Even today, visitors are occasionally allowed to witness school activities, like student-led mock elections and sustainability projects. The school’s philosophy blends hands-on learning with real-world problem-solving—long before such practices became policy prescriptions.

A Symbol of Change for Ladakh’s Schools

The CBSE affiliation is more than a moment of celebration for Druk Padma Karpo—it sets a precedent for other schools in Ladakh still affiliated with JKBOSE. With discussions about forming a separate territorial education board underway, this development might serve as a roadmap for institutions in similar limbo.

More importantly, CBSE affiliation opens pathways for Druk Padma Karpo’s students to pursue higher education and career opportunities across India and abroad, thanks to the broader recognition of the national board’s credentials.

As Principal Angmo noted, “Our approach to education has always been different—focused on understanding rather than rote learning. With CBSE now also moving towards competency-based teaching after NEP, we’re optimistic about merging our ethos with national reforms.”

The story of Druk Padma Karpo School is a reminder that good education can come from the most unexpected places—sometimes even from a windswept plateau framed by the Himalayas. With its blend of tradition and transformation, the school now embarks on a new chapter—one where storytelling, cinema, sustainability, and structured pedagogy go hand in hand.

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For the first time since 1931, India is set to conduct a nationwide caste census—a move that has stirred political headlines and, perhaps, textbook margins too.

Announced officially by the Union Government this week, the caste enumeration will be included in the upcoming national census, marking a significant shift in how demographic data is collected and analysed. While states like Bihar have recently undertaken caste surveys, this is the first time in post-independence India that the Centre has agreed to officially gather detailed caste data, beyond the Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) traditionally documented since 1951.

📚 So, what exactly is a caste census?

Think of it as a social snapshot. A caste census doesn’t just count—it maps. It records the distribution of caste groups across India and looks at their access to education, employment, housing, and welfare. The aim is to help policymakers understand who’s thriving, who’s still struggling, and where gaps remain.

🏫 Why should schools care?

Because this isn’t just data for government files—it’s a lesson in equity, diversity, and history.

The caste census is more than a bureaucratic exercise. It’s an opportunity for educators to unpack centuries of India’s complex social structure and help young minds make sense of why some policies exist in the first place. Reservation, affirmative action, social justice—these are not just chapter headings. They’re real-world mechanisms built on understanding where society stands.

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For school students, this could be a way to understand that historical inequality doesn’t disappear just because it’s uncomfortable to discuss. Including caste enumeration as a case study in Social Science classes can foster honest, inclusive conversations about privilege, access, and opportunity.

We can rightly put it by saying, “Understanding caste isn’t about division, it’s about awareness.”

🏛️ From 1931 to 2025: What changed?

Under British rule, caste was recorded in every Census between 1881 and 1931. After independence, India stopped documenting caste broadly, focusing only on SCs and STs. The last comprehensive attempt was the 2011 Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC), but its data was never officially released due to questions around accuracy.

This latest announcement, therefore, is more than a policy decision—it’s a social reckoning.

And while political parties like the Congress have long demanded such a survey, arguing it’s crucial for equitable development, its inclusion now provides a teachable moment for the education system.

✏️ Making it student-friendly

Here’s how schools can make the caste census more accessible and meaningful to students:

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• Storytelling through data: Use infographics and classroom discussions to show how socio-economic progress varies across communities.

• Project-based learning: Let students study their local area’s access to public services—schools, hospitals, ration shops—and link it back to the idea of representation.

• Debate and dialogue: Create spaces where students can discuss reservations, inclusion, and diversity with sensitivity and empathy.

• Historical comparisons: Encourage students to trace how the Census evolved over time and what it tells us about India’s changing priorities.

In an age of growing data literacy, this is a golden chance to show students how numbers can tell stories—and how those stories can shape policy and perception.

Because education isn’t just about teaching history—it’s about helping students read between the lines of it.

In a move poised to bring relief to thousands of parents, the Delhi government has approved the Delhi School Education Transparency in Fixation and Regulation of Fees 2025 Bill. The draft legislation, passed during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, aims to regulate and standardise the fee structure in all 1,677 schools across the capital—including private, aided, and unaided institutions.

Addressing the media, Chief Minister Gupta termed the decision “historic and brave,” stating that for the first time, a “foolproof” framework would be established to bring fee transparency across all types of schools in Delhi. “There was no prior mechanism to regulate fee hikes. This Bill will ensure a clear guideline and procedure that schools must follow,” she said.

The development comes amid a rising number of complaints from parents regarding steep and unexplained fee hikes. The Chief Minister also highlighted growing concerns about alleged student harassment in the name of unpaid or increased fees.

To implement the new regulations, Education Minister Ashish Sood announced the formation of a three-tier committee system. These panels will be responsible for reviewing and approving fee structures every three years, factoring in a school’s infrastructure, facilities, and resources.

In a notable step towards inclusive governance, the committees will include three teachers and five parents, selected through a draw of lots. These members will collaboratively determine the permissible fee slabs, thereby ensuring both transparency and stakeholder participation.

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The government’s move is also part of a broader crackdown on schools accused of imposing arbitrary and excessive fees. Education officials confirmed that investigations are underway and that regulatory action will follow wherever needed.

As part of its education reform efforts under the National Education Policy 2020, the Delhi government’s focus on equity, accountability, and participatory decision-making marks a significant shift in how school finances are monitored in the national capital.

In a fresh revision of Class 7 Social Science textbooks, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has dropped all content related to the Mughals and the Delhi Sultanate, introducing instead chapters on ancient Indian dynasties and sacred pilgrimage sites. The changes come as part of the implementation of the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, aligned with the broader goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The revised textbook, Exploring Society: India and Beyond, now includes detailed accounts of dynasties like the Magadha, Mauryas, Shungas, and Sātavāhanas, aiming to present what officials describe as a curriculum reflecting “Indian ethos.” The chapter “How the Land Becomes Sacred” introduces students to sacred geographies associated with various faiths—ranging from the Char Dham and 12 Jyotirlingas to revered sites in Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.

A quote by India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, describing the country as a land of pilgrimages, also finds mention in this context.

The latest revision marks a continuation of the syllabus rationalisation exercise initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, references to the Mughal Empire, Tughlaqs, Khaljis, Mamluks, and Lodis were shortened; however, this is the first instance where all such sections have been completely removed. PTI reports that the second part of the textbook is still under development, though NCERT has not confirmed whether the omitted material will be reinstated.

The chapter on India’s Constitution has been revised to include contemporary civic developments, such as the 2004 Supreme Court ruling that allowed citizens to fly the national flag as a matter of expression under the Fundamental Rights.

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Additionally, a section on the varna-jati system notes that while the structure may have once offered social order, it became rigid over time—particularly during colonial rule—resulting in widespread social disparities. A paragraph on the Maha Kumbh highlights the event’s scale, citing a participation of 660 million people, although it omits the stampede incident in which over 30 pilgrims lost their lives.

The NCERT revisions have drawn strong reactions from several quarters. Critics, particularly from opposition parties, have described the overhaul as selectively editing history to fit political narratives. Meanwhile, the NCERT has maintained that the exercise is rooted in pedagogical clarity and cultural relevance.

Speaking last year on textbook changes, NCERT Director Dinesh Prasad Saklani remarked that content involving riots or graphic events might make young children negative citizens—a rationale also used to justify the removal of passages referring to the 2002 Gujarat riots in other textbooks.

While the academic intent may be to streamline and contextualise history education, educationists have pointed out that the act of omitting chapters from textbooks does not erase them from history itself. As historian Romila Thapar once noted, “History that is not taught does not cease to exist; it only ceases to be questioned.”

With the second part of the textbook pending release, educators and parents alike await clarity on how Indian history will continue to be presented to the next generation of learners.

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Under the inspiring metaphor of the “Aalamaram” (banyan tree), over 100 educators from across India gathered at Akshar Arbol International School (ECR) for Aalamaram 2025—a vibrant two-day professional learning exchange organised by Astra in collaboration with Study Melbourne. Hosted by Akshar Arbol International School, the event blossomed into a living, breathing ecosystem of ideas, reflections, and meaningful connections.

From the opening session on April 21st, Aalamaram 2025 emphasised mutual respect and authentic dialogue. Schools shared their values and visions before diving into multiple breakout sessions on inquiry-based learning, middle school education, and empowering students through sustainability initiatives.

One standout story emerged during a session on middle school transformation, where an educator described how student-driven initiatives evolved into a full-fledged environmental council—a powerful testament to the potential of project-based learning beyond textbooks.

Reflecting on the event, Ms. Fizza Kachwala, Middle School Coordinator, Bombay International School, said,

“Katha, exploring Peter Senge’s 5 Disciplines, was the most impactful session for me. The Human Library is definitely something I want to replicate back at my school. It’s rare to be part of an experience where every voice matters.”

Post-lunch sessions explored the intersection of AI ethics and education, led by Dr. Chetan Arora of Monash University, Melbourne, and continued with literacy circles, graded reading programmes, and reimagining libraries as spaces of dialogue and curiosity.

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Ms. Divya Samvit, Head of School, Heartfulness International School (Omega Branch), added,

“This was absolutely fantastic—coming together with this kind of focus has been absolutely pathbreaking. It’s a much-needed vitamin dose for us educators to keep our passion alive.”

The event also beautifully showcased emotional wellbeing initiatives, like Heartfulness International’s work on the Happy Schools framework, and sessions on sustaining joy and resilience in schools.

Day two deepened the experience. It began with the Human Library, where educators shared personal stories of change, and a mesmerising performance, Kathaa, which brought Peter Senge’s Five Disciplines to life through performing arts.

“Seeing leadership theory come alive through storytelling and dance was transformative,” shared several participants.

Ms. Anjali Karpe (Deputy Head) and Ms. Supriya Atal (Director of Studies) from Bombay International School remarked,

“The conceptualisation of Aalamaram—knowledge, growth, interconnectedness—was brought to life so beautifully through every session. The continuum of science skills, AI ethics discussions, and leadership exploration were highlights. We returned nourished and inspired.”

The leadership roundtable, Lead Forward, facilitated by CEO Coach Mr. R. Ramkumar, offered a powerful reminder that leadership development creates ripple effects throughout school ecosystems.

By the time everyone gathered for the closing Vanakkam tea, it was clear: Aalamaram 2025 was not merely a conference—it was a beginning. A reaffirmation that educators are the roots holding up the canopy of India’s future.

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Each conversation, each story, each shared breakthrough was a seed—and across the country, those seeds are already starting to grow.