News
P V Sindhu & Praveen Raju Discuss The Importance of Sports in ScooNews Webinar
In an interactive webinar hosted by Scoonews, Mr Praveen Raju and Ms P V Sindhu shared insights on the importance of sports and fitness in wellness.
Published
5 years agoon
By
Rahul Sharma
The importance of physical activity cannot be undermined even if modern academics become more demanding. Under no circumstances, there should be a lack of physical activity as it can have drastic effects on the well-being of children.
During a webinar conducted by ScooNews, Parveen Raju, Founder of the Suchitra Academy, and P.V. Sindhu, Olympic Badminton Champion, gave an insight into the ‘Importance of Sports and Fitness in Wellness’ to 3000+ educators listening to them Live from all over India.
Praveen Raju starts the conversation with the thought that wellness includes both physical and mental health and equal emphasis should be put on both the fronts. However, with the advent of device addiction, physical activity among children has decreased significantly.
Obesity is another concern that is a direct result of a lack of physical activity among children.
Raju shares the statistics from an IHME report that shows how cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer are the leading cause of death around the globe. These diseases are directly linked to one’s lifestyle and a lack of physical activity.
He shows concern on how working parents often leave their children with devices as they can’t find time to spend with them. This can lead to major mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and ADHD. According to WHO, depression is the most common cause of death among youth and by 2030, it will be the leading burden disease for all age groups.
Putting emphasis on the responsibility of educators in mitigating this challenge, he shares, “The pressure from parents and schools disables a child to spend the necessary time in physical activities. Our schools need to put more stress on outdoor and sports activities as researches show that these activities also boost academic success. Take P.V. Sindhu, for example. She could not find the time to study and yet scored 60 to 70 percent marks as her physical fitness enhanced her cognitive abilities.”
He recommends having a structured sports curriculum with proper measurements of benchmarks to check enhanced performance. “I believe that school facilities should be properly used for after-school activities as the infrastructure only gets wasted,” he adds.
The last recommendation he has for schools is to have a proper social-emotional learning curriculum for the overall development of the child.
Story of Suchitra Badminton Academy
Addressing the educators, Raju next shares the story of Suchitra Badminton Academy whose foundation he laid with the vision of making on the best academies not only in India but on an international level.
He informs how he faced bureaucratic barriers during his initial days but never doubted his vision and used these hurdles as stepping stones.
The journey of the academy began with 4 athletes and today, they have a team of 15 coaches, 5 physical trainers, 3 physios state of the art gym, video analysis, 7 international standard badminton courts and other modern training facilities to cater both national and international students.
Suchitra Academy takes pride in being the only high-performance badminton center that runs without any government support. It also serves as a training hub for IPL players and tennis players.
One the ending note, Raju talks about P.V. Sindhu and applauds her father, who constantly supported her during the journey.
Today, Suchitra Academy helps P.V. Sindhu with fitness training and planning, game corrections and strategy.
P.V. Sindhu begins her talk by promoting the views of Raju about the importance of physical activities that directly affects one’s mental health. Like him, she also upholds the importance of social and emotional education in making individuals tough and contribute to the well-being of society.
She raises concerns about the WHO report on depression strengthening its roots in Indian society and how physical fitness can ultimately lead to a healthy mind. “In badminton, there is no major difference between the top ten players in terms of skills and fitness and so, it’s our mental capabilities that make the difference,” she says.
Below are some questions the educators popped in front of the duo to get their share of virtual counseling directly from the mavens of the field.
How can one stay fit during the lockdown? What are you doing to stay fit?
P V Sindhu: We need to be very positive and understand that maintaining social distances is good for us at the moment. For me, it’s an opportunity to spend time with my family after many years. I’m exercising at home every day and enjoying the new routine. Apart from this, I’m cooking and trying my hands at new crafts to keep myself busy and mind working.
What is the right age to get into formal training?
P V Sindhu: It is important to know the child's interest and understand which sport interests them. There is no such thing as the right age. A lot of players have revealed that they began playing around the age of six. But, mind it, the sport should be in sync with their age. Plus, you cannot expect a child to practice 6 hours a day. The most important aspect is they should enjoy what they are doing.
Which activities promote mental health?
P V Sindhu: In sports, you either win or lose. With many ups and downs, your mental health occasionally goes for a toss. I, for one, have been doing meditation for more than a year to keep myself calm during such crisis. For me, it’s not about winning or losing but living the situation and going with the flow. Doing meditation for about an hour is something I’d recommend.
Praveen Raju: In our school, we have quality circle time wherein we spend half an hour to 40 min every week with children and talk about diverse topics, nothing related to academics. At that point, teachers can notice children and their mental conditions so that really helps. I would also recommend 5 minutes of silence for every school child in a day. It will go a long way to keep them mentally healthy.
What advice would you give to a child who has been playing badminton for a year now and wants to pursue it as a career?
P V Sindhu: It solely depends on the child who wants to continue and take it as a profession. You need to be sure that if you want to actually do it or not. It is not a few days or months that will make you a champion or world’s no.1. You need to understand that it’s years of hard work with many ups and downs. You might keep losing and you still need to understand that there is always a next time which you need to keep working towards. Also, parents support is important. Especially when the kids are upset that is when you need to encourage them the most.
What is the importance of parents in their kid’s sports life?
P V Sindhu: In my life, the parents’ support has been really big. Being Volleyball players themselves, they understood what sportsmanship actually is. Doesn't matter which sport, it's all the same thing when it comes to an international sportsperson. Even though you would have coaches but your folks’ little efforts take you a long way. Believe it or not, when my parents watch my matches as an audience and tell me what wrong or right I am doing, it clears my perspective.
How do schools get their sporting curriculum going for contact sports like football at a time when we’re practising social-distancing?
Praveen Raju: The way the virus is spreading today, even sitting in the classroom is a challenge than going out on the ground to play. So, this is a difficult thing to talk about as of now.
P V Sindhu: Everybody keeps asking me if I regret that the Olympic got postponed. I think talking about such things is useless because no one predicted this was going to happen. But now that it has, the important thing is life comes first before anything else. Right now, the right way is to sit at home and be safe.
Share ways in which a budding sportsperson can stay fit.
Praveen Raju: I want to advise budding athletes that even if you are engrossed in one sport, you should also dabble into other games. Muscular development of different sports is different and hence this practice can help in the overall development of your body.
P V Sindhu: It can be anything like gymnastics that promotes stretching. Playing other sports for fun really helps you in your own choice of sport where you want to put more focus.
What do you want to say to the kids who want to pursue careers in sports and their parents?
P V Sindhu: When I started playing, I never imagined I would become an Olympic champion. Once I became one, people kept asking what’s next. Please remember that it's not a quick journey where results are easily visible. You might fall a lot of times and it will take years of hard work, dedication, belief and practice to reach a certain level.
Parents who are thinking if they should let their child pursue the career, yes, definitely! But you also need to have it in yourself the belief toward your child and the kind of patience required to support them in the rather long journey.
Praveen Raju: Kids, you have to balance studies and sports just like P V Sindhu. To those who plan to give up studies because of sports, I would recommend against it. Regardless of your choice of becoming a professional athlete, you should also work towards refining your other equally important skills like communication, etc. Also, studies are also important because you always need a Plan B. Please understand and recognize the ground reality that everybody cannot reach where Sindhu or Tendulkar have managed. Although the career in sports is full of opportunities, it never lasts a lifetime.
ScooNews wants to express immense gratitude to Mr Raju and Miss. Sindhu for providing us with an extremely delightful and enlightening session on the importance of sports and fitness.
Image source- Kreedon.com
You may like
-
Banu Mushtaq’s International Booker Win Is a Wake-Up Call for Indian Schools to Reclaim Literature
-
Kerala Reimagines Schooling: Social Awareness Over Syllabi in Bold New Reforms
-
Mizoram Declared First Fully Literate State in India
-
Delhi Government Schools to Introduce ‘Kaushal Bodh’ Pre-Vocational Programme for Classes 6 to 8
-
Human (Soft) Skills: The Missing Piece in School Curriculums
-
CBSE’s ‘Sugar Boards’ Initiative: Tackling the Sweet Crisis in Indian Schools
-
Geopolitics in Classrooms: Why India’s Students Need to Understand the World Beyond Borders
-
UK’s New Immigration Rules: What They Mean for Indian Students
-
Maharashtra Launches Statewide Staff Mapping Drive for Schools
-
Indian Students Flock to Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai for Higher Studies: 38% Surge Recorded
Education
Banu Mushtaq’s International Booker Win Is a Wake-Up Call for Indian Schools to Reclaim Literature
Published
3 days agoon
May 22, 2025
When Banu Mushtaq became the first Kannada author to win the prestigious International Booker Prize for her short story collection Heart Lamp, she didn’t just make literary history—she reignited a conversation about the role of literature in shaping society, and the way schools can nurture future writers not just as hobbyists, but as cultural forces.
Mushtaq, along with translator Deepa Bhasthi, was honoured for Heart Lamp, a collection of stories chronicling the lives of Muslim women in Karnataka across three decades. The stories are rooted in resistance, critique of religious and patriarchal structures, and everyday courage. The recognition was not just for the literary craft, but for the emotional and moral clarity the stories offer—a kind of truth that is rarely rewarded in global spaces. But the International Booker did just that.
And yet, how many students in Indian classrooms today know what the Booker Prize even is? While the Grammys, Oscars and even YouTube Play Buttons are common cultural currency among young people, literary awards often pass under the radar. This needs to change.
The International Booker Prize is one of the most prestigious literary honours in the world, recognising the finest works of fiction translated into English. It opens up space for voices that often remain local to reach a global stage. For students in India, this is an opportunity to understand that writing, especially in regional languages, is not a dead-end path. Yes, it may not offer the instant gratification of a viral video or influencer deal—but as Mushtaq’s life proves, it can shape public discourse, win global accolades, and leave behind a legacy that matters.
For educators, this is a teaching moment. Banu Mushtaq’s story is as much about literary merit as it is about resilience. She wrote in Kannada, a language she adopted over her native Urdu. She survived deep personal trauma, including a suicide attempt, and faced social backlash for her activism. She was a councillor, a journalist, and a lifelong advocate for women’s rights. These are the kinds of role models classrooms should be spotlighting—especially for young girls who need to see that stories, quite literally, can change lives.
Heart Lamp may not be appropriate for every age group, but its themes—identity, voice, justice—can be introduced in many ways. Schools should consider book discussions, literary circles, or even creative writing prompts inspired by such works to encourage students to find their voice, in whatever language or form it may come.
This win is also a reminder that educators need to broaden the definition of success they present to students. STEM, coding, and commerce continue to dominate career conversations, but it’s equally crucial to show that the arts—especially literature—have their own path to impact and influence. We hope for a time when young writers are not asked “what else do you do?” but are valued for what their words bring to the world.
Banu Mushtaq’s Booker Prize win is not just an individual triumph—it’s a collective opportunity. For schools, for students, and for all of us who believe that a powerful story can change minds, communities, and someday, the world.
Education
Kerala Reimagines Schooling: Social Awareness Over Syllabi in Bold New Reforms
Published
3 days agoon
May 22, 2025
Kerala’s Department of Public Education is steering its schools in a direction few others in the country have ventured. With a growing emphasis on emotional well-being, civic sense, and digital discipline, the state has announced a series of reforms that aim to reframe the purpose and process of schooling in the 2025–26 academic year.
The most striking of these changes is the introduction of a two-week social awareness programme at the beginning of the school year for students from Classes 1 to 10, starting June 2. Higher secondary students will take part in a shorter version of the initiative from July 18. In this period, traditional textbooks will be set aside in favour of sessions that explore topics like drug abuse prevention, responsible social behaviour, emotional regulation, hygiene, gender sensitivity, and legal awareness.
The programme was designed in consultation with experts from the Police Department, Social Justice Ministry, Child Rights Commission, SCERT, and others, ensuring that content is both relevant and age-appropriate. Arts and sports will also be given space during this period, further promoting a holistic approach to education.
In addition to curriculum shifts, the department has issued a directive asking teachers not to create or share reels and videos on social media platforms during school hours. This move comes in light of growing concerns about distractions and the professional image of educators in the digital age.
These reforms reflect a deeper philosophical shift. Education Minister V Sivankutty’s vision seems to be one where schooling is not only about academic advancement but also about nurturing responsible, resilient individuals. While some critics may question the timing or implementation capacity of these reforms, the global education landscape suggests Kerala may be on the right track. Countries like Finland and New Zealand have already incorporated social-emotional learning and life skills into their core curricula, recognising that academic performance alone does not prepare students for an unpredictable world.
Are these reforms necessary? Given rising cases of student stress, substance abuse, and digital addiction, the answer may well be yes. By introducing these changes early in the academic calendar, Kerala is making a case for front-loading empathy, awareness, and life-readiness—concepts that are increasingly critical but often delayed in traditional schooling.
Whether this is a bold experiment or the beginning of a national shift remains to be seen. But there’s little doubt that other states will be watching closely.

Mizoram has officially been declared India’s first fully literate state, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards inclusive education. The announcement was made by Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on 20 May 2025, during a ceremony held at Mizoram University in Aizawl.
The declaration follows the successful implementation of the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme), a centrally sponsored scheme focused on adult education for those aged 15 years and above. Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, the programme covers five areas: foundational literacy and numeracy, basic education, critical life skills, vocational skills, and continuing education.
According to the 2011 Census, Mizoram had already achieved a high literacy rate of 91.33%, placing it third in the country. To bridge the remaining gap, a door-to-door survey conducted by Cluster Resource Centre Coordinators (CRCCs) in August–September 2023 identified 3,026 non-literate individuals. Of these, 1,692 actively engaged in learning activities. This progress helped the state surpass the 95% literacy threshold required to be considered fully literate, as per the Ministry of Education’s criteria. The 2023–24 PFLS survey further confirmed Mizoram’s literacy rate at 98.20%.
This achievement was made possible through the efforts of 292 volunteer teachers, including students, educators, and CRCCs, who supported learners at the grassroots level. Their contribution, driven by community spirit and a strong sense of duty, was instrumental in reaching every corner of the state.
The event was attended by Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education; Vanlalthlana, Mizoram’s Minister of School, Higher and Technical Education; Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena; and Special Secretary David Lalthantluanga, among other dignitaries and students. Mizoram’s accomplishment offers a model for other states aiming to eliminate adult illiteracy. Nationally, the ULLAS scheme has seen more than 2.37 crore learners and over 40.84 lakh volunteer teachers registered through the mobile app. Earlier, on 24 June 2024, Ladakh became the first administrative unit in India to declare full literacy.
Education
Delhi Government Schools to Introduce ‘Kaushal Bodh’ Pre-Vocational Programme for Classes 6 to 8
Published
5 days agoon
May 20, 2025
Starting from the academic year 2025–26, government schools in Delhi will introduce a pre-vocational education programme titled Kaushal Bodh for students of Classes 6 to 8. The initiative, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023, aims to equip students with essential life skills and vocational awareness from an early age.
According to a circular issued by the Vocational Education Branch of the Directorate of Education (DoE), the programme will be rolled out in phases—beginning with Class 6 in the first year, followed by Classes 7 and 8 in subsequent academic sessions. Kaushal Bodh has been conceived as a distinct subject that places equal emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applicability.
The curriculum is designed around three core domains: Work with Life Forms, Work with Machines and Materials, and Work in Human Services. Students will complete three practical projects annually—one from each domain—engaging in activities such as organic farming, pottery, carpentry, millet-based cooking, embroidery, and basic electrical tasks.
Each student will dedicate 110 hours per academic year to this programme. Assessments will be conducted using a mix of written tests, oral presentations, activity logs, portfolios, and teacher observations. These will focus not only on the mastery of practical skills but also on critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving.
The circular also outlined the responsibilities of school leadership and teachers in ensuring the success of this initiative. Heads of schools are tasked with overseeing the implementation of the programme and supporting teacher training. Regular subject teachers will guide students through vocational tasks and help integrate skill development into everyday learning. To further enhance student engagement, the Directorate of Education will also host Kaushal Melas—school-level exhibitions showcasing student work, fostering cross-learning, and encouraging community participation.
By making vocational education a structured and integral part of middle school learning, Kaushal Bodh seeks to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical life skills. The initiative not only reflects a shift towards holistic, application-based learning but also responds to growing calls for early exposure to career-oriented competencies within the school system.
Education
CBSE’s ‘Sugar Boards’ Initiative: Tackling the Sweet Crisis in Indian Schools
Published
6 days agoon
May 19, 2025
In an effort to combat rising sugar consumption among students, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed all affiliated schools to establish “Sugar Boards”—a dedicated awareness initiative designed to monitor and educate students about the dangers of excessive sugar intake. This decision follows a sharp increase in Type 2 diabetes among children, a condition once primarily seen in adults, but now a growing concern in school-aged populations.
Why Sugar is Becoming a Silent Crisis
The CBSE has observed a troubling rise in Type 2 diabetes among students over the past decade. Health experts attribute this trend to the easy availability of sugary snacks, soft drinks, and processed foods within school environments. Studies indicate that sugar constitutes 13% of daily calorie intake for children aged 4 to 10 years and 15% for those aged 11 to 18 years—far exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limit of 5%.
These Sugar Boards, mandated by CBSE, will serve as educational displays within schools, informing students about the risks of excessive sugar consumption. They will display critical information, such as:
-
Recommended daily sugar intake
-
Sugar content in commonly consumed foods (sweets, sodas, chocolates)
-
Health risks associated with high sugar intake, including obesity, diabetes, and dental problems
-
Healthier dietary alternatives
The directive also encourages schools to conduct awareness seminars and workshops, helping students make informed food choices. Schools are required to submit reports and photographs of their Sugar Boards by July 15.
The Real Enemy is Advertising
But while the CBSE is focusing on sugar consumption within schools, global research highlights a much larger problem—junk food advertising. As reported by The South First in a recent story, a study presented at the 2024 European Congress on Obesity in Malaga found that even five minutes of exposure to junk food advertisements could cause children to consume an extra 130 kilocalories per day. Professor Emma Boyland from the University of Liverpool explained, “Our results show that unhealthy food marketing leads to sustained increases in caloric intake among young people—enough to promote weight gain over time.”
This research highlights that children’s sugar consumption is not just influenced by what they eat in school but also by what they see on their screens. Junk food marketing—whether through TV, online ads, or even brand-only advertisements—significantly impacts children’s eating habits.
Nithin Kamath, Founder & CEO of Zerodha & Rainmatter Foundation, and a popular LinkedIn thought leader, recently highlighted the Sugar Boards initiative on social media, thanking Food Pharmer (Revant Himatsingka) for contributing to this change with his content.
Revant Himatsingka, popularly known as Food Pharmer, has been a vocal advocate for healthier eating habits among children. His digital content, which breaks down the sugar content of everyday foods—from malted drinks to packaged juices—has gained widespread attention and spurred conversations on healthy eating among parents, schools, and policymakers.
Kamath’s post acknowledged that while the CBSE’s initiative is a step in the right direction, true change requires parental awareness and action. “Now to figure out how to get parents to care about it. How to reduce sodas, coffee/tea (majority of it is mostly sugar), malted drinks, chocolates, sweets, etc.,” he wrote.
Will ‘Sugar Boards’ Be Enough?
While the Sugar Boards are a commendable initiative, many may argue that they are only part of the solution. Schools can monitor students’ sugar intake on campus, but the problem extends beyond the school gates. Children are exposed to junk food advertising on social media, in video games, and even through influencer endorsements.
Professor Boyland’s research shows that even brand-only food ads—advertisements that showcase brand logos without directly promoting food—can significantly increase children’s calorie intake. This means that without stricter advertising regulations, schools may find it difficult to counter the impact of sugar marketing.
CBSE’s Sugar Boards are a commendable initiative, but their success will depend on consistent awareness efforts, parental involvement, and broader policy changes. Experts recommend a multi-pronged approach:
-
Stricter regulations on junk food marketing aimed at children
-
Mandatory nutrition education as part of the curriculum
-
Collaboration with parents to reduce sugary foods at home
-
Regular health check-ups and BMI monitoring in schools
With diabetes and obesity on the rise among young Indians, addressing the sugar crisis is no longer just a dietary choice—it is a public health necessity.
Education
India-Turkey Relations Sour: Indian Universities Suspend Academic Ties Over National Security Concerns
Published
1 week agoon
May 16, 2025
In a significant move reflecting escalating geopolitical tensions, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) has suspended all academic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Turkish educational institutions, citing national security concerns. This decision follows a similar action by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), which recently halted its MoU with Turkey’s Inonu University. Kanpur University has also terminated its academic agreement with Istanbul University.
The suspensions come amid Turkey’s perceived support for Pakistan in regional conflicts, prompting Indian universities to reassess their international collaborations. Delhi University is currently reviewing its MoUs with Turkish institutions, with decisions pending further evaluation.
While the number of Indian students in Turkey remains relatively low—approximately 200 as of 2023 —these developments underscore the broader impact of geopolitical dynamics on educational exchanges. Turkey hosts over 300,000 international students, but Indian enrollment has been minimal compared to other destinations.
The current geopolitical climate is influencing Indian students’ choices for higher education abroad. Traditional destinations like the UK, US, and Canada have seen declines in Indian student enrollments due to stricter immigration policies and rising costs. Conversely, countries such as Germany, France, and New Zealand are experiencing increased interest from Indian students, attributed to more favorable visa policies and affordable education.
These shifts highlight the need for Indian students to consider geopolitical stability and diplomatic relations when selecting study destinations. As international relations continue to evolve, educational institutions and students alike must navigate the complex interplay between academia and global politics.
Education
Geopolitics in Classrooms: Why India’s Students Need to Understand the World Beyond Borders
Published
1 week agoon
May 15, 2025
In a world where a tweet can trigger diplomatic disputes and a trade ban can reshape global supply chains, understanding geopolitics is no longer just for diplomats—it’s for everyone. Yet, as Jaimine Vaishnav’s thought-provoking article, “Breaking Barriers: The Case for Rethinking Geopolitical Education in India,” highlights, Indian education remains stubbornly siloed. Students in fields like technology, design, or engineering are rarely encouraged to explore the world of international relations, cultural diplomacy, or the geopolitics of technology. But should they be?
For a country with one of the world’s largest and youngest populations, India’s education system is remarkably conservative in its approach to interdisciplinary learning. According to Vaishnav, fewer than 4.3% of India’s top technological institutions offer substantial coursework in international relations. Even among design schools, a mere 2.7% address the intersection of aesthetics and global diplomacy. In a world where design is soft power and technology is a geopolitical weapon, these numbers reflect an alarming disconnect.
Why Geopolitical Education Matters—Everywhere
Geopolitics is not just about borders or foreign policy. It is about understanding how power, culture, economics, and technology influence every aspect of our lives. When a design student learns about cultural diplomacy, they understand that a logo is not just branding—it is a statement of national identity. When a technology student grasps the concept of data sovereignty, they realise that code can be a tool of influence.
This disconnect between classrooms and the real world was dramatically highlighted recently when tensions escalated between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor. As cross-border hostility intensified, schools in border districts of Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir were the first to shut down. Students stayed home, and classes were suspended until further notice, only resuming yesterday. In this tense environment, education was not just disrupted—it became a casualty of geopolitics.
Education is Political—Always Has Been
Vaishnav’s article brilliantly exposes the myth that education can be apolitical. When students are taught to code without understanding digital ethics, when engineers learn to build without considering sustainability, and when designers are trained without a sense of cultural context—they are being educated in a vacuum.
Today, social media algorithms can incite communal hatred, artificial intelligence can reflect racial bias, and a diplomatic tweet can tank a company’s stocks. Education that ignores these connections leaves students unequipped for the real world.
What can we do? We need to reimagine interdisciplinary education as not just an add-on but a foundational framework. Students must learn to navigate the world with an understanding of how global and local forces intersect. This isn’t just an academic preference—it’s a survival skill.
At ScooNews, we believe education is not just about memorising facts but about making sense of the world. Jaimine Vaishnav’s article is a timely reminder that the most important thing we can teach our students is how to think—and that means thinking beyond silos.
Read the full article by Jaimine Vaishnav here: [Breaking Barriers: The Case for Rethinking Geopolitical Education in India]
Education
UK’s New Immigration Rules: What They Mean for Indian Students
Published
1 week agoon
May 15, 2025
Indian students aspiring to study in the United Kingdom may face new challenges following the UK government’s announcement of stricter immigration rules. Under a new Immigration White Paper revealed by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, several visa categories, including student visas, are set to undergo significant changes.
What’s Changing for Indian Students?
One of the most notable changes is the reduction of the Graduate Route visa from two years to 18 months. This visa, which allows international students to work in the UK after completing their studies, has been a popular choice among Indian students. As the largest group of Graduate Route users, Indian students may now find it harder to gain sufficient work experience in the UK before their visa expires.
Additionally, the new rules double the standard period for settlement status eligibility from five years to 10 years. This means international students and their dependents will now need a longer stay before they can qualify for permanent residency.
The new regulations also impose stricter English language requirements, with students and their dependents expected to demonstrate language improvement as part of their visa conditions. This could add pressure on non-native speakers to meet higher proficiency standards.
Student Voices and Concerns
The National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK (NISAU) has expressed mixed reactions to the changes. While they are relieved that the Graduate Route has been retained, they have raised concerns about the potential impact on Indian students, who rely on this route for international work experience.
“Panic must not be allowed to set in among current and prospective students. Immediate clarity is needed on who is affected and how,” NISAU stated.
With these new rules, Indian students must carefully plan their UK education journey, considering the limited work window and the extended path to settlement.
Education
Maharashtra Launches Statewide Staff Mapping Drive for Schools
Published
2 weeks agoon
May 13, 2025
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.”
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.
Education
Indian Students Flock to Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai for Higher Studies: 38% Surge Recorded
Published
2 weeks agoon
May 9, 2025
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.
Newsletter

Banu Mushtaq’s International Booker Win Is a Wake-Up Call for Indian Schools to Reclaim Literature

Kerala Reimagines Schooling: Social Awareness Over Syllabi in Bold New Reforms

Mizoram Declared First Fully Literate State in India

Delhi Government Schools to Introduce ‘Kaushal Bodh’ Pre-Vocational Programme for Classes 6 to 8

Human (Soft) Skills: The Missing Piece in School Curriculums

CBSE’s ‘Sugar Boards’ Initiative: Tackling the Sweet Crisis in Indian Schools

India-Turkey Relations Sour: Indian Universities Suspend Academic Ties Over National Security Concerns

Geopolitics in Classrooms: Why India’s Students Need to Understand the World Beyond Borders

UK’s New Immigration Rules: What They Mean for Indian Students

Maharashtra Launches Statewide Staff Mapping Drive for Schools

Indian Students Flock to Singapore, Ireland, and Dubai for Higher Studies: 38% Surge Recorded

John King’s Book ‘Teacher By Teacher’: A Global Tribute to the Transformative Power of Education

Operation Sindoor and Operation Abhyaas: Navigating School Safety and Student Well-being Amid Rising Tensions

CUET-UG 2025 Likely to be Postponed, Fresh Dates Expected Soon

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025: Nominations Now Open for India’s Young Achievers

CBSE Finally Comes to Rancho’s School: Druk Padma Karpo Breaks a 24-Year Wait

India 2050: Are We Preparing for the World’s Youngest Classroom?

Caste Census: A New Chapter in Our Social Sciences Textbook?

Delhi Approves Landmark Bill to Regulate School Fees Across 1,677 Institutions

NCERT Class 7 Textbooks Updated: Mughals Removed, Focus on Indian Ethos and Pilgrimage

Aalamaram 2025: Where Indian Educators Came Together to Grow, Reflect, and Lead

India Bids Farewell to NEP Architect Dr K. Kasturirangan

Trump Signs Executive Order to Promote AI Integration in U.S. K-12 Education

Maharashtra to Regulate Pre-Primary Education with New Law Aligned to NEP 2020

Harvard University Sues Trump Administration Over $2.2 Billion Funding Freeze

Sudha Murty Advocates Mandatory Training and Exams for Teachers Every Three Years

Hello Kids Expands to 1,000 Centres, Aims for 2,000 by 2028

Maharashtra to Mandate Registration of Pre-Primary Schools from 2025 for Better Regulation

Nagaland Schools Launch ‘Adolescent Girls Club’ to Empower Young Girls Under Mission Shakti

“Be the Change in a Changing World”: Anita Karwal and Anju Chazot Reflect on NEP 2020

CBSE Warns Dummy School Students May Be Barred from Board Exams

Rewriting Ambedkar: Why Students Must Know the Man Beyond the Constitution

Sunbeam Indiranagar Shines in Academics, Arts, and Sports, Cementing Its Legacy of Holistic Education

Is Your School Following These Mandatory CBSE Committees?

Maharashtra to Regulate Pre-Primary Education with New Law Aligned to NEP 2020

China Embarks on Ambitious AI-Driven Education Reform to Build a ‘Strong Education Nation’ by 2035

‘Baalpan ki Kavita’ Initiative Launched to Restore Indian Rhymes for Young Learners

CBSE Mandates 50-Hour Annual Training for Teachers, Declares STEM as 2025 Theme

India Bids Farewell to NEP Architect Dr K. Kasturirangan

Delhi Government Cracks Down on Dummy Schooling; Over 600 Schools Inspected, 10 Issued Notices

IIT Guwahati Developing VR Metaverse for PM SHRI Schools—But is the Metaverse Still the Future?

MAHAJYOTI’s Book Distribution Scheme to Empower 7,000 OBC Students Preparing for JEE/NEET & MHT-CET

Stonehill International School Students Shine in Spectacular Performance of In the Heights

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025: Nominations Now Open for India’s Young Achievers

CBSE’s ‘Sugar Boards’ Initiative: Tackling the Sweet Crisis in Indian Schools

NCERT Class 7 Textbooks Updated: Mughals Removed, Focus on Indian Ethos and Pilgrimage

CBSE Introduces Mandatory Bridge Course for Classes 6 to 12 in Chhattisgarh Under NEP 2020

PM Modi Leads ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ with Deepika Padukone & Sadhguru

Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE): Sustainable Practices in CBSE Schools

Rajasthan Cabinet Approves Bill to Regulate Coaching Centres Amid Rising Student Suicides
SGEF2023 | Special Address by Rama Datt, Trustee, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Trust, Jaipur

ScooNews | After Movie | ScooNews Global Educators Fest 2023

Aftermovie | NIES2 UP Chapter | 21 Jan 2023

WEBINAR | Gamification in Education: How Digital Badges Can Boost Student Motivation and Engagement

ScooNews | WEBINAR| Importance of Physical Activity for Children at School | Plaeto

SCOONEWS | WEBINAR | WHY DIGITIZING YOUR SCHOOL IS A MUST | TEACHMINT

Keynote Address | Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar

Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, CBSE at SGEF2022

How schools can nurture every student’s genius

Aftermovie | SGEF2022 | Jaipur

Li Andersson | Minister of Education | Finland

Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) discusses NEP2020

ScooNews | Early Ed Asia 2019 | Aftermovie

#PodarECEconf : Pursuing quality ECE

#CBSE Class XII #Results #Highlights

The interesting story of India’s educational system | Adhitya Iyer

A young scientist’s quest for clean water

The Danger of Silence: Clint Smith

National Digital Library of India is an initiative by HRD Ministry

Remembering Kalpana Chawla on her birthday!

Message from Sadhguru for Students!

Message from Sadhguru for Students!

The Untapped Genius That Could Change Science for the Better

Eddy Zhong: How school makes kids less intelligent TEDxYouth@Beacon

#TEDxCanberra : What if every child had access to music education…
Trending
-
Education2 months ago
Sudha Murty Advocates Mandatory Training and Exams for Teachers Every Three Years
-
Education3 months ago
Hello Kids Expands to 1,000 Centres, Aims for 2,000 by 2028
-
Education3 months ago
Maharashtra to Mandate Registration of Pre-Primary Schools from 2025 for Better Regulation
-
Education3 months ago
Nagaland Schools Launch ‘Adolescent Girls Club’ to Empower Young Girls Under Mission Shakti
-
Education2 months ago
“Be the Change in a Changing World”: Anita Karwal and Anju Chazot Reflect on NEP 2020
-
News2 months ago
CBSE Warns Dummy School Students May Be Barred from Board Exams
-
Education1 month ago
Rewriting Ambedkar: Why Students Must Know the Man Beyond the Constitution
-
Education2 months ago
Sunbeam Indiranagar Shines in Academics, Arts, and Sports, Cementing Its Legacy of Holistic Education
-
Education1 month ago
Is Your School Following These Mandatory CBSE Committees?
-
Education1 month ago
Maharashtra to Regulate Pre-Primary Education with New Law Aligned to NEP 2020