On the auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the Indian Ministry of Education has initiated the ‘Promise To Protect’ campaign, a robust effort aimed at combating the growing menace of youth tobacco addiction. Under this ambitious campaign, educators from all corners of the nation have pledged their commitment to maintain tobacco-free environments within their schools.

The ‘Promise to Protect’ digital campaign, launched on this significant day, is a solemn vow to shield students and young generations from the harmful grasp of tobacco. This initiative draws inspiration from the alarming statistics revealed by the Global Youth Tobacco Survey-4 (2019), which indicates that a staggering 38% of cigarette smokers, 47% of bidi smokers, and 52% of smokeless tobacco users in India begin their tobacco consumption journey before their 10th birthday. Aligned with the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering tobacco-free educational institutions, this campaign’s primary objective is to prevent the youth from falling victim to tobacco addiction.

Over 1,000 educators from across the nation attended the digital conference and witnessed participants taking an online pledge to safeguard their schools and students against the perils of tobacco. Steering this impactful event was the renowned actor and presenter, Karanvir Bohra. Esteemed speakers such as Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of School Education; Dr. Joseph Emmanuel, Director of Academics (CBSE); Dr. Pankaj Chaturvedi of Tata Memorial Hospital; and Dr. Vishal Rao, Group Director for Head and Neck Surgical Oncology at HCG Cancer Centre, shared their insights on this critical issue. Additionally, individuals who had suffered due to tobacco use shared their harrowing journeys, shedding light on the devastating consequences of tobacco addiction. Teachers also shared their personal stories related to tobacco use, underscoring the campaign’s gravity.

Educators at the conference expressed their unwavering commitment to incorporating anti-tobacco education into their curriculum, recognizing it as an essential component of their mission.

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Drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings, Karanvir Bohra highlighted the significance of collective efforts in securing a tobacco-free India for future generations. The conference also commemorated India’s journey towards becoming a “Nasha Mukt Bharat” (a drug-free nation), a government initiative that commenced on the same date in 2008, emphasizing the role of teachers as heralds of a tobacco-free future.

This impactful campaign was executed in partnership with the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, with the active participation of 21 civil society organizations in mobilizing pledges nationwide. Together, they are committed to realizing a brighter, tobacco-free future for the nation’s youth.

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Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Electronics & IT, Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, actively participated in the “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign at New Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station, as part of the ‘Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ Shramdaan activity. Joining him were Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, MSDE, senior officials from the Ministry, and members of the general public, all uniting their efforts to contribute towards creating a garbage-free India.

To commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s 154th birth anniversary, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi called for a nationwide, citizen-centric movement, “Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath,” which served as a clarion call for government officials and citizens alike to volunteer for a one-hour cleanliness drive called “Shramdaan for Swachhata” on October 1. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship led the cleanliness drive across its ecosystem, including Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKKs), National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs), National Institute of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD), and the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) in Guwahati and other centres in the northeastern region.

The cleanliness drive encompassed Sarojini Nagar Market, Commonwealth Games Park, Safdarjung Railway Station (track and surrounding area), and other locations in New Delhi. A total of 1345 events created in the dedicated portal for the “Shramdaan for Swachhata” drive were conducted across institutions nationwide.

Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar commented, “Over the past 9 years, PM Modi has spearheaded much-needed initiatives to reshape our collective behaviour as citizens after decades of challenges. It’s heartening to witness so many Indians enthusiastically participating in and believing in the Swachh Bharat Mission’s vision. This shift in behaviour has proven invaluable, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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“Young Indians are the primary champions of the Swachh Bharat movement. They have embraced the responsibility of furthering PM Modi’s vision. From the Red Fort’s ramparts, PM Shri Narendra Modi launched this mission to transform India into a Swachh Bharat. It aimed to transform our way of life, fostering a profound behavioural change among all citizens. He spoke of ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas Sabka Vishwas Sabka Prayas,’ illustrating how Indians rallied behind his vision for a Swachh Bharat,” the minister further added.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari expressed that from a skill development perspective, ‘Swachhata’ also requires a specialized skill set. For instance, in the realm of solid waste management, it is imperative to possess skills for waste segregation and disposal. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has been providing training in collaboration with local bodies and state governments in cleanliness-related areas. The focus has also been on empowering workers with modern machinery knowledge to instil a sense of dignity in their work, resulting in improved societal outcomes.

In a significant development with far-reaching implications for India’s technology and education sectors, Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, has officially announced a pioneering collaboration between Google and HP. They are poised to commence the production of Chromebooks within India, marking a momentous milestone as the country’s inaugural venture into Chromebook manufacturing. The primary objective of this ambitious initiative is to democratize access to affordable and secure computing solutions, addressing the growing demand for budget-friendly PCs within the educational sector.

In a joint statement released by HP, the partnership underscores a shared vision to fortify India’s digital education ecosystem. The core aim is to empower students with cost-effective, secure, and top-quality computing devices. These Chromebooks will be readily available to educational authorities, schools, and institutions across the nation.

The manufacturing of these cutting-edge Chromebook devices will be based at the Flex factory, strategically situated near Chennai, India. HP has been utilizing this state-of-the-art facility for the production of a wide range of laptops and desktops since August 2020. Starting from October 2, 2023, the production line will expand its offerings to include HP India Chromebooks, effectively catering to the burgeoning demand for affordable personal computing.

This monumental development not only underscores the burgeoning capabilities of India’s manufacturing sector but also represents a significant step forward for the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Launched to bolster local manufacturing and stimulate India’s economic growth, this program has witnessed impressive success. A recent report by Counterpoint Research reveals that between 2014 and 2022, over 2 billion mobile phones were manufactured in India under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, showcasing an impressive compound annual growth rate of 23 percent.

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In summary, the partnership between Google and HP to locally manufacture Chromebooks in India signifies a noteworthy leap in making high-quality computing devices accessible to students while further enhancing India’s ‘Make in India’ success story. This venture not only underscores India’s manufacturing prowess but also solidifies its standing as a prominent global technology hub.

Gurukul The School, a beacon of education excellence, hosted a transformative workshop on Hindi Language Teaching, aligning with the principles outlined in the New National Education Policy. The event drew participation from 55 prominent C.B.S.E. schools and witnessed over 180 enthusiastic Hindi language teachers in attendance.

Dr. Sunday Light Gupta, a renowned educationist and former Regional Director of the Central Hindi Institution under the Ministry of Human Resources and Development, Government of India, graced the occasion as the esteemed subject expert. The event commenced with a warm welcome from the School’s Senior Mentor, Mrs. Anjali Malik, who also served as the main speaker. Mrs. Malik emphasized the pivotal role of Hindi in nurturing students’ creativity and facilitating effective communication, crucial skills for the 21st century.

The workshop delved into the significance of Hindi language teaching as a cornerstone of the New Education Policy. It underscored the importance of fostering students’ all-round development, promoting inclusive teaching practices, and consolidating art within education.

Participants found the workshop to be incredibly enlightening and valuable. As the day concluded, gratitude flowed towards all guests and participants for their active engagement.

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Gurukul The School remains committed to promoting excellence in education, with ‘Hindi Language Teaching’ emerging as a central theme in this forward-looking initiative.

In an education landscape dotted with choices, parents worldwide yearn for exceptional educational experiences for their children. The eagerly awaited announcement by Carfax Education, a leading global education consultancy, brought forth the prestigious Schools Index 2023. This carefully curated guide, compiled by international experts, showcases the top 125 private schools globally. Among these, India proudly boasts The British School in New Delhi, The Doon School in Dehradun, and Woodstock School in Mussoorie, recognized for their outstanding contributions to education.

For discerning parents, the Schools Index is not just a list; it is a compass guiding them toward the pinnacle of educational brilliance. Handpicked by Carfax Education’s seasoned consultants, these schools stand as paragons of academic excellence, holistic development, and unique ethos. The meticulous selection process delves into factors beyond academic prowess, including a school’s reputation, its global standing, and its ability to prepare students for life’s challenges beyond academics.

Beyond Borders: Recognising Indian Excellence

The presence of The British School, New Delhi, The Doon School, Dehradun, and Woodstock School, Mussoorie, on this esteemed list reaffirms India’s position on the global educational map. These schools have not only excelled academically but have also nurtured unique environments, preparing students not just for exams but for life itself.

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The Schools Index offers more than just a ranking. It provides a comprehensive overview of each school’s curriculum, fees, and unique offerings. Prospective parents can gain valuable insights, from academic achievements to travel times to local airports. This detailed information empowers families, enabling them to make informed decisions about their child’s education, understanding that choosing the right school is an investment in a child’s future.

As these exceptional Indian schools bask in their global recognition, they continue their tireless efforts to mold future leaders. They provide not just education but a nurturing environment where character is honed, talents are discovered, and dreams are encouraged. The Schools Index 2023 stands as a testament to their dedication and underscores the importance of quality education in shaping tomorrow’s global citizens.

In a world that seeks excellence, these Indian schools have etched their names among the best, reminding us that exceptional education knows no boundaries. Through their commitment, they not only educate young minds but also inspire generations, ensuring a brighter, more enlightened tomorrow.

Check the complete list at: https://www.schools-index.com/

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India retains 40th rank out of 132 economies in the Global Innovation Index 2023 rankings published by the World Intellectual Property Organization. India has been on a rising trajectory, over the past several years in the Global Innovation Index (GII), from a rank of 81 in 2015 to 40 in 2023. Innovation has been at the forefront of our battle against the unprecedented crisis created by the pandemic and will be pivotal in driving the country’s resilience, as enshrined in the Prime Minister’s clarion call on Atma Nirbhar Bharat.

The consistent improvement in the GII ranking is owing to the immense knowledge capital, the vibrant start-up ecosystem, and the amazing work done by the public and private research organizations. All Departments of the Government, including Scientific Departments such as the Department of Science and Technology; the Department of Biotechnology; the Department of Space; and the Department of Atomic Energy and also departments such as Ministry of Electronics and IT, Department of Telecommunications, Department of Agricultural Research & Education and the Department of Health Research have played a pivotal role in enriching the National Innovation Ecosystem. Most importantly, the Atal Innovation Mission has played a major role in expanding the Innovation ecosystem.

NITI Aayog has been working tirelessly to ensure the optimization of the national efforts for bringing policy-led innovation in different areas such as electric vehicles, biotechnology, nanotechnology, space, alternative energy sources, etc. It has also played a role in expanding the innovation eco-system in states and districts. A constant thrust in monitoring and evaluating India’s position in the global rankings has been provided by the NITI Aayog, including in the GII.

The GII is a reliable tool for governments across the world to assess the innovation-led social and economic changes in their respective countries. Over the years, the GII has established itself as a policy tool for various governments and helped them to reflect upon the existing status quo.

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The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has also been collaborating in India’s journey towards an innovation-driven economy. This year, the NITI Aayog, in partnership with the CII and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), is hosting, virtually, the India Launch of the GII 2023 on 29th September 2023.

The launch session will be graced by many senior dignitaries including Shri Suman Bery, Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog; Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog; Shri BVR Subrahmanyam, Chief Executive Officer, NITI Aayog; Mr. Daren Tang, Director General, WIPO; Dr. Sacha Wunsch-Vincent, Co-Editor, GII & Head, Economics and Statistics Division, WIPO; Dr. Nausad Forbes, Chairman, CII National Committee on Technology, Innovation & Research, and Co-Chairperson, Forbes Marshall; Professor Rishikesha Krishnan, Director, Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore; and Sh. Alok Nanda, Co-Chairman, CII National Committee on Technology, Innovation & Research, and CEO, GE India Technology Centre.

The Third International Conference on Emerging Techniques in Computational Intelligence (ICETCI 2023) concluded triumphantly on September 23, 2023, at Mahindra University. This exceptional event drew together an eclectic assembly of leading experts, scholars, and practitioners from around the world, solidifying ICETCI 2023’s standing as a dynamic crucible for the exchange of pioneering concepts and the unveiling of state-of-the-art research within the realm of Computational Intelligence.

The conference was inaugurated with a comprehensive day of tutorial sessions, setting the stage for two subsequent days brimming with invigorating discussions, keynote presentations, and technical paper unveilings. This year’s prestigious lineup included luminaries such as Prof. Anil Sahasrabuddhe, Chairman of both the NBA (National Board of Accreditation) and NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council), who graced the event as the Guest of Honour. Prof. Sahasrabuddhe shared invaluable insights into the pivotal role of innovation in academia. Furthermore, the occasion was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. Kota Harinarayana, Former Director General of the Tejas Program and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad, who delivered a keynote address emphasizing the profound impact of computational intelligence on cutting-edge technologies across diverse domains, with a special focus on the Aerospace and Agriculture sectors.

Prof. Nikhil R. Pal, celebrated for his outstanding contributions to Computational Intelligence and a former President of the International Computational Intelligence Society, IEEE, captivated the audience with a captivating technical discourse, shedding light on the continually evolving landscape of Computational Intelligence, with special attention to its synergies with Biological Intelligence.

Reflecting on the event, Prof. Anil Sahasrabuddhe, Chairman of the NBA and NAAC, remarked, “ICETCI 2023 served as an invaluable platform for academia and industry to converge, offering a glimpse into the latest advancements in Computational Intelligence. The dedication of Mahindra University to research and education is truly commendable, and this conference has undeniably propelled the domain forward.”

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Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice-Chancellor of Mahindra University, expressed his delight at hosting ICETCI 2023, stating, “Mahindra University is honored to have been the venue for ICETCI 2023, a conference that fosters innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among experts in Computational Intelligence. The resounding success of this event is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and the vibrant research community at Mahindra University.”

ICETCI 2023 witnessed a significant influx of high-caliber research paper submissions, all subjected to rigorous peer review. Beyond serving as a conduit for knowledge dissemination, the conference also facilitated invaluable networking opportunities and collaborative prospects among researchers, academicians, and industry experts. Participants departed ICETCI 2023 invigorated, armed with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation of the immense potential inherent in the field of Computational Intelligence.

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New Delhi, India – Poshan Panchayats emerge as a cornerstone in fostering JanAndolans aimed at elevating nutritional standards during RashtriyaPoshanMaah2023. These grassroots platforms not only encourage nutrition-seeking behaviors but also amplify awareness regarding the accessibility of fundamental health and nutrition services offered at local Anganwadi Centers.

At the heart of this initiative are extensive outreach programs, identification drives, camps, and home visits conducted at the village, block, and district levels. This multifaceted approach actively involves various segments of the community, effectively disseminating comprehensive knowledge about holistic nutrition. Empowering individuals and communities alike to seek proper nutrition remains a pivotal element in realizing the objectives of the Abhiyaan. This unwavering commitment continues to be a core focus of Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0.

Poshan Panchayats are emerging as vital instruments in India’s pursuit of improved nutrition during Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2023. These grassroots platforms not only encourage healthier eating habits but also raise awareness about the essential health and nutrition services available at local Anganwadi Centers. Their importance to India is multifaceted.

Firstly, they address the nation’s persistent malnutrition challenges, combating both undernutrition and the growing issue of overnutrition and related health problems. Secondly, they empower women, who often bear the primary responsibility for family nutrition. Thirdly, by promoting local health facilities, Poshan Panchayats strengthen the overall healthcare infrastructure. Fourthly, community engagement is boosted, ensuring that the public actively participates in these initiatives. Fifthly, they facilitate a connection between rural and urban areas, enabling the exchange of knowledge and resources. Sixthly, their emphasis on data-driven decision-making aids in tracking progress and targeting interventions effectively. Lastly, Poshan Panchayats contribute to India’s commitment to international Sustainable Development Goals, notably Goal 2, Zero Hunger. In essence, Poshan Panchayats are pivotal to India’s mission of achieving better nutrition, health, and overall well-being for its diverse population.

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28 September 2023;  Carfax Education, the leading global education consultancy, today announced the launch of the fourth annual Schools Index, the leading international index of the top 125 private schools. 

Categorised by region, prospective parents and pupils can now access a list of the top 125 schools for 2023 across the UK, Switzerland, Europe, USA, Middle East, China, Southeast Asia and the rest of the world, reviewed and selected by a panel of education consultants, led by Carfax Education.

As well as formal criteria, such as academic results and preparation for university entry, schools are selected for their unique ethos, their reputation both locally and internationally, and how they prepare students for life beyond academia. The guide provides a comprehensive overview of curriculum and fees, as well as practical information such as travel times to local airports. 

Top schools listed for 2023 providing exceptional education for students include world-renowned British schools such as Eton College, Wycombe Abbey and Rugby School, as well as those further afield, such as St Paul’s School in Brazil and Geelong Grammar School in Australia. New entries for this year include UK senior school, Radley and UK prep school, Port Regis, as well as The British School in Delhi and The Dalton School, USA.  Collated by Carfax Education experts on the ground across the world, the index is the most comprehensive global guide available. 

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Fiona McKenzie, Head of Education, Carfax Education, said: “Now in its fourth year, the Schools Index has rapidly become a valuable resource for parents looking for the very best education for their child, wherever they are in the world – as well as for the private schools sector.  This year’s guide has been comprehensively curated by international experts, with each school notably recognised for their own individual footprint in education, including academics, facilities, preparation for university entry, unique ethos and how they prepare students for life beyond academia. Demand for excellent schools remains high and is still fiercely competitive, as parents strive to ensure their child receives the strongest foundations to set them up for a lifetime of success.”

Jo Duncan, Headmistress of Wycombe Abbey said: “We are delighted to be included in the Carfax Education Schools Index as one of the Top 125 private schools in the world this year and a Top 30 UK Senior School. Wycombe Abbey strives to be a world leader in girls’ boarding education and a place where academic excellence, empathy and integrity thrive. We aim to ensure that our pupils leave our School as confident, articulate, independent young women. It is my privilege to lead Wycombe Abbey and to be recognised in this way by Carfax Education’s Schools Index.”   

Lists in this year’s Schools Index include:

• Top 30 UK Senior Schools
• Top 10 UK Prep Schools 
• Top 10 Switzerland
• Top 15 Rest of Europe
• Top 15 China & Southeast Asia
• Top 15 USA
• Top 15 Middle East
• Top 15 Rest of the World
  

For more information and to view the Schools Index, visit www.schools-index.com

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, addressed the G20 University Connect Finale programme at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi yesterday. The G20 University Connect initiative was undertaken with the aim of building an understanding of India’s G20 Presidency among India’s youth and enhancing their participation in the different G20 events. During the event, the Prime Minister also released four publications, including “The Grand Success of G20 Bharat Presidency: Visionary Leadership” and “India’s G20 Presidency: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”

The Prime Minister began his address by recalling the hustle and bustle at the Bharat Mandapam two weeks ago during the G20 Summit and expressed delight that the same venue was witnessing the future of India. He credited the success of such events to the promising youth of India, emphasizing that when the youth associate themselves with such events, they are bound to be a success.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s recent achievements, including the successful Chandrayaan mission, the launch of the solar mission, and India’s diplomatic efforts, such as the BRICS Summit in South Africa and his visit to Greece, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades.

He also mentioned India’s growing international profile, citing Saudi Arabia’s planned investment of 100 billion dollars in India after the G20 summit. The Prime Minister emphasized that India’s progress benefits not only the nation but also provides new opportunities, friends, and markets for the youth.

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In addition, he touched on the government’s efforts to empower various communities and the poor and middle class, including the launch of PM Vishwakarma Yojna and Rozgar Melas to provide job opportunities.

Prime Minister Modi spoke about the rapid growth of startups in India, the country’s increasing manufacturing and service sector, and its successful efforts in improving physical, social, and digital infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of the next 25 years for India and the youth and called upon them to think big and make every activity a benchmark.

The Prime Minister concluded by urging the youth to participate in a cleanliness campaign on October 1, promote digital transactions, and support ‘Vocal for Local’ by buying ‘Made in India’ products during festivals. He encouraged campuses to promote Khadi and make it a fashion statement.

The Prime Minister said that unlike the stalwarts of the freedom struggle we did not get an opportunity to die for the country but we have all the opportunity to live for the nation. He said the youth of the decades a century ago had decided on the grand goal of Independence and that nation-wide energy freed the nation from colonial powers.

“Friends, come walk with me, I invite you. 25 years are in front of us, what happened 100 years ago, they moved for Swaraj, we can move for Samriddhi (prosperity). Aatmnirbhar Bharat opens new doors of prosperity and takes self-belief to new heights. That is why I need your support and cooperation for Maa Bharati and for 140 crore Indians.” the Prime Minister exhorted the youth.

Union Minister for Education and Skill Development, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, also attended the event and praised the Prime Minister for advancing the global education agenda under the G20 architecture, which garnered recognition for India’s education and skill ecosystem.

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The Prime Minister’s insightful interaction highlighted the speed, scale, and full range of New India and inspired India’s youth to ‘Think and Dream Big.’ His statesmanship during the G20 Presidency brought the world together for prosperity, He congratulated the students’ for spearheading the Jan-bhagidari events and making G20 India a people-driven national movement.