THE NEW VANDE BHARAT EXPRESS 2023

Vande Bharat Express

Theme: The Vande Bharat project, previously known as Train 18, is a completely ‘Make-In-India’ initiative. It’s fully electric and runs without a locomotive. The evolution of electric trains in India has been a remarkable journey, marked by significant advancements and milestones. The first Vande Bharat Express was launched on February 2019, connecting Delhi, Allahabad and Kanpur. Then, a Vande Bharat Express was launched on January 2023 in Vishakapatnam, connecting Secunderabad.  In this Article let us explore this lavish train and its salient features. The Vande Bharat Express: The Vande Bharat Express can run up to a maximum speed of 160 mph and has travel classes like Shatabdi Train but with better facilities. It aims to provide a totally new travel experience to passengers. Speed, Safety and Service are the hallmarks of this train. Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai. The Railways Production unit has been the force behind an utterly in-house design and manufacture, computer modelling and working with many suppliers for system integration in just 18 months.   Objectives behind Vande Bharat Express: This train has been introduced to upgrade maintenance technologies and methodologies and achieve improvement in productivity and performance of all Railway assets and manpower in which inter-alia would cover reliability, availability, utilization and efficiency. Currently, the eight Vande Bharat Express Trains are running on the following routes: 1. New Delhi – Shri Vaishno Devi Mata, Katra 2. New Delhi – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 3. Gandhinagar Capital – Ahmedabad – Mumbai Central 4. Amb Andaura – New Delhi 5. Mysuru – Puratchi Thalaivar Dr MGR Chennai Central 6. Nagpur, Maharashtra – Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh 7. Howrah – New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal 8. Secunderabad, Telangana – Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh The culmination of the ‘Make in India’ effort of Indian Railways: In maintaining with the Prime Minister’s plan of “Make in India”, the principal systems of the train have been designed and built in India. The train matches worldwide standards in overall performance; gives safety and passenger consolation costs much less than imaginable, and has the capacity to be a changer inside the rail commercial enterprise. Vision for a New India Vande Bharat Express is the next predominant leap for Indian Railways regarding speed and convenience. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that during the 75 weeks of the Amrit Mahotsav of Independence, 75 Vande Bharat trains would connect each corner of the country. Enhanced Safety: The Vande Bharat 2.0 trains have the KAVACH (Train Collision Avoidance System) for enhanced safety in operations. There will be improved security with four emergency windows added in every coach. There will be four platform side cameras including rearview cameras outside the coach instead of two earlier. The new coaches have Level-II safety integration certification for better train control. The Vande Bharat 2.0 will also have better fire safety measures with an Aerosol based fire detection and suppression system in all electrical cubicles and toilets. There will be superior floodproofing for under-slung electrical equipment to withstand floods up to 650 mm in height as compared to 400 mm earlier. The train will also have four emergency lighting in every coach in case of electric failure. Improved Amenities for Passengers: There will be enhanced riding comfort for passengers at a 3.5 riding index. The new Vande Bharat will also have 32-inch LCD TVs in place of the earlier 24-inch TVs. There will be a passenger information and communication system in Vande Bharat 2.0. 15 per cent more energy efficient ACs with dust-free clean air cooling of traction motor will make travel more comfortable. Side recliner seat facility which is being provided to Executive Class passengers, will now be made available for all classes. The Executive Coaches have the added feature of 180-degree rotating seats. The train will also have bio-vacuum toilets with touch-free amenities. The trains will also have wifi content on demand. Other Enhancements: The Vande Bharat 2.0 will have finer heat ventilation and air-conditioning control through a higher efficiency compressor, with an Ultra Violet (UV) lamp for a germ-free supply of air. The train’s time to reach 160 KMPH will be 140 seconds, compared to 145 seconds earlier. There will be driver-guard communication with a voice recording facility. There will be a change of formation with a non-driving trailer coach in the middle for better acceleration and deceleration. The train will have better ventilation for traction motors for better reliability. There will also be two signal exchange lights on the coaches for the exchange of signals with the wayside stations. Features and Amenities in Vande Bharat Express: The Vande Bharat Express train has an intelligent braking system which enables better acceleration and deceleration. All coaches are equipped with automatic doors; GPS-based audio-visual passenger information system, on-board hotspot Wi-Fi for entertainment purposes, and very comfortable seating. The executive class also has rotating chairs. All toilets are bio-vacuum type. The lighting is dual mode, viz. diffused for general illumination and personal for every seat. Every coach has a pantry with facilities to serve hot meals, hot and cold beverages. The insulation is meant to keep heat and noise to very low levels for additional passenger comfort.  The Vande Bharat Express has 16 air-conditioned coaches of which two are executive class coaches. The total seating capacity is 1,128 passengers. Conclusion: From this extraordinary railway system, we can understand that the Indian Government has put more effort towards proving the ‘Make in India’ campaign true. Indian Railway system always proves to be the best among all the sectors present in the country.

The New Digital India 2023

Digital India

Theme: Digital India is a flagship program released by means of the Government of India in 2015 with the goal of transforming India right into a digitally empowered society and expert economic system. The application ambitions to offer virtual infrastructure, digital literacy, and digital offerings to all residents of India. The program has been a success in bridging the virtual divide in India and has introduced a digital revolution in the Country.   In this weblog, we can know about the diverse factors of Digital India, its effect on the country, and the demanding situations faced in its implementation. Digital Infrastructure: Digital India aims to provide a secure and reliable virtual infrastructure that connects every part of the country. The program pursuits to provide excessive-speed net connectivity to all citizens, which include the ones in rural areas.  The BharatNet assignment was released in 2011 to attach 0.25 million panchayats through an optical fibre (one hundred MBPS) and join India’s villages.  The venture’s objective is to provide high-speed net connectivity to all villages in India. The authorities have additionally launched numerous schemes beneath its Digital India campaign to attach complete India. The program has been successful in providing internet connectivity to far regions of the country. Here are some recent data points on the Digital India campaign: The total internet connections in India increased from 25.15 crores to 85 crores in June 2023, which constitutes a growth of 231%. A project called ‘The BharatNet’ aims to connect all 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats of the country through a high-speed network potential. India’s GDP would have reached around $1 trillion by 2025, with respect to a report by economic analysts. Carbon emissions will be addressed by cloud computing and assist in improving mobility and flexibility. The country is digitally empowered in the area of technology and is a global success story only because of the Digital India landscape. The biggest YouTube audience is bagged by India globally and an average of 8.48 gigabytes per month are consumed by smartphone users. The digital revolution in India is holding on to economic growth and it is expected to deal with poverty, scarcity and illiteracy is great means.  The government and the private sector are moving rapidly shifting themselves into high-speed networks to promote highly technically sustainable platforms to people in India. The digital experts are so confident that the Bharat Net project will surely benefit people in rural areas and promote good welfare.  Digital Services: Digital India’s goal is to offer government schemes and services to residents via digital systems. The system targets to provide virtual services consisting of e-governance, e-fitness, e-education, and e-trade to all citizens.  The software has been a success in supplying virtual services to citizens, which has minimized travel and pollutants. The authorities have released numerous schemes such as the National Digital Literacy Mission and the Digital Saksharta Abhiyan to provide virtual literacy to citizens. Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion: Digital India has performed a pivotal role in promoting virtual payments and making sure financial inclusion for the masses. With projects like Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS), and Aadhaar-enabled charge structures, the government has facilitated stable and convenient transactions, permitting citizens to include a cashless economic system.  The Jan Dhan Yojana, coupled with online banking services, has ensured that even the unbanked population can get sufficient economic services.  This shift towards online payments has now the handiest progressed efficiency and transparency and has reduced the dependence on cash and eliminated formal financial inclusion. E-Governance for Efficient Services: Digital India has introduced a substantial shift in the manner authorities’ services are delivered to citizens.  Through the implementation of diverse e-governance initiatives, which include the Digital Locker, e-Hospital, and MyGov, the authorities have streamlined administrative strategies and made them more accessible to the general public.  Online platforms and mobile applications have simplified tasks which include applying for passports, submitting tax returns, and having access to essential files.  This has not only saved time and resources but also reduced corruption and stepped forward transparency in the machine, leading to greater responsibility. Challenges Faced: The implementation of Digital India has faced several traumatic conditions. The Digital India plan has faced challenges which include a loss of infrastructure, a loss of digital literacy among citizens, and a lack of a proper budget. The plan has additionally confronted demanding situations collectively with a loss of coordination amongst precise authorities departments and a lack of knowledge among citizens about the advantages of digital services. The daily internet speed, as well as the Wi-Fi hotspots, are slow as compared to other developed nations. Most of the small and medium-scale industries have to struggle a lot for adapting to the new modern technology. Limited capability of entry-level smartphones for smooth internet access. In the successful implementation of the Digital India Programme, there are many roadblocks like digital illiteracy, poor infrastructure, low internet speed, connectivity issues, lack of coordination among various departments, issues pertaining to taxation etc. The biggest challenge faced by the Digital India programme is slow and delayed infrastructure development. Conclusion: Digital India is a flagship program released by the Government of India to convert India into a digitally empowered society and information financial system. The program has promoted virtual literacy amongst citizens, which has brought approximately an increase in the use of digital systems and services. However, this system has faced numerous challenges, and the authorities are working to address those weak conditions to make certain the achievement of the program.  

Has education in India 2023 become an easy business?

Education in India

Theme: In recent years, education in India has changed dramatically. With the proliferation of private educational institutions and the rising cost of education, a query arises: has education become a business? This article takes a deeper take look at various elements of education in India, analyzing high-price systems, the extent of education, and whether or not the quality of education justifies the excessive cost. Privatization: Education in India is Known for its wealthy historical past of teachers and pupils, India has wide and numerous training systems. From ancient seats of learning like Takshashila and Nalanda to the many universities and schools today, education has always played a vital role in Indian society. However, with the introduction of privatization, the educational landscape changed dramatically. Many private educational institutions charge huge fees, especially for professional courses such as engineering and medicine. In some cases, this money can go far beyond the reach of a middle-class family. This trend raises concerns about accessibility and inclusion, as only the privileged can afford such an amount for education. Some notable examples of increased fees include: Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS Pilani), charges about Rs 5 lakh annually for technical education. The Manipal Academy of Higher Education, which is known for its medical programs, charges about Rs 22 lakh per annum for MBBS courses. Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune, requires an annual fee of about Rs 18 lakhs for its MBA programme. Standard of Education in India: As the cost of education in India rises, questions are frequently raised about the quality of education delivered. Despite the high cost, it is important to assess whether institutions are delivering the quality of education they promise. In some cases, institutions with higher fee structures may be less accessible to students in terms of faculty expertise, infrastructure, or research opportunities. Furthermore, focused learning and reliance on outdated teaching methods can hinder students’ acquisition of critical thinking and practical skills. The education system should place more emphasis on holistic experiential learning to prepare students for real-world challenges. Is education in India worth the fee structure? The evergreen question that arises is whether the standard of education justifies excessive prices for more academic career opportunities. While it’s genuine that better education can open doors to higher professional prospects, the remarkable charges enhance issues about affordability and equal possibility for students from different backgrounds. It is important for educational institutions to make certain that their costs are commensurate with the services and opportunities supplied to students. Transparency and duty in payment systems will construct self-assurance among college students and their parents. Additionally, there must be more entry to scholarships, offers, and other financial aid options, so that deserving students from all backgrounds can get the right of entry to high-quality education.   Why has education in India become a business? Growth of the Private Education Sector: The non-public training region in India has grown tremendously through the years. According to a document by the Indian Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), the non-public education market in India is worth around $91.7 billion and 2025 is predicted to reach $158.2 billion. This improvement is in part indicative of enhancing business-mindedness in education. Improvement in coaching institutes: The increasing demand for competitive exam training has brought about the rise of many education institutes throughout the country. These institutes charge excessive fees for their services and they target college students who need admission to prestigious schools and universities. This scenario emphasizes the commercialization of education. Private Higher Education in India: In current years, there has been an increase in the wide variety of private universities and schools in India. Many of these establishments function as for-profit groups and rate college students’ excessive education fees. This privatization of schooling shows the business side of them. Education loans and finance: With the excessive value of education in India, students and their parents frequently rely on education loans to finance their studies. Banks and financial establishments offer educational loans at various interest quotes, making education financial funding and emphasizing its commercial nature. The high fee of training: The cost of education maintains an upward thrust in India. According to the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation, the expenditure on training increased to Rs 94,224 crore in 2023. This growth in expenditure indicates the financial system of importance in the educational career. In 2023-24, the Ministry of Education has been allocated Rs 1,12,899 crore. This is an increase of 13% over revised estimates for 2022-23. The Department of School Education and Literacy has been allocated Rs 68,805 crore (61% of the Ministry’s expenditure). Consequences of business-minded education in India: Here are five consequences of education being treated as a business: Socio-financial segregation: The commercialization of education exacerbates socio-economic segregation by making first-class education unaffordable for marginalized groups, developing unequal possibilities and perpetuating social inequality. Education as a commodity: Treating education as a commodity destroys its intrinsic price as a way of personal and social development, decreasing it to a commercial change with monetary earnings. Pressure on students: The formal technique of education places notable pressure on students to do well academically, main to pressure, causing intellectual health problems and a focus on exam-centred learning. Learning-centred and examination-orientated methods: Many educational institutions get a huge lump of money and only train students to attend exams and do not provide practical examples to achieve better. Access to Quality Education: Commercialization limits the right of entry to excellent education for those who cannot have enough money, perpetuates educational inequality and impedes social mobility. Conclusion: There is no doubt that education in India has become a lucrative business, with ever-increasing fee structures and the rise of private educational institutions Although there is a need to recognize the importance of a sustainable budget, steps must be taken to ensure that education is inclusive and accessible to all. For a career-oriented mindset, the focus should be on students’ holistic development and prioritizing future success. A balanced approach can help us achieve a coherent view

Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan 2023 – New Self Reliant India

  Theme:  Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan is the mission started by the Government of India on 13th May 2020, towards making India Self-reliant. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi announced an economic package of INR 20 lakh crore as aid to support the country in the times of pandemic. It is focused on 5 components – Economy, Infrastructure, Systems, Vibrant Demography and Demand. Atmanirbhar (Self-Reliant) Country:  A self-reliant nation need not take any necessary measures. On the other hand, it will want to produce and process more such products that it can knowingly produce at a lower cost and higher demand worldwide. At the same time, it cannot rely permanently on countries that dump their substandard products and undermine the importing country’s technological development To benefit from scale, availability of natural and skilled people, expertise in manufacturing & processing products in the country, and attitude to judge domestic global needs, always helps countries let them decide whether to manufacture goods or import useful or essential goods. Atmanirbhar Bharat: What does it mean for India?  Being self-reliant, India has been planning to revive its small-scale industries that earlier contributed to high economic growth but are no longer viable as some countries like China dumped their inferior products in the Indian market so at a lower price – the way small businesses Thousands of scale cottage businesses are getting off track. Income generation from agriculture, the backbone of India, also needs to be boosted, so that India retains its rural Indian grid and allows the cycles of economic growth to continue to turn rapidly. India initially suffered greatly from the coronavirus health crisis because it was surprised by the sudden spread of the virus from China. There was a shortage of masks, gloves, sanitisers and PPE kits for militant doctors to treat the infected. No country could help in this global epidemic because they were all suffering from the same problem. India then stood firm and demonstrated its ability to supply medicines to the United States and other countries suffering from Covid-1 India is facing a self-reliant COVID-19 situation. India has repurposed automotive industries to collaborate in life-saving ventilation. From producing zero personal protective equipment (PPE) before March 2020, today India has developed a capacity to manufacture 2 lakh PPE kits per day, which is also growing steadily.   How India Achieves Self-Reliance in Any Situation? Examples The sudden development of the PPE industry in India is the best example of India gradually turning into a self-reliant country. It has received the biggest fund of ₹21,000 crores from the IIT Alumni Council to support the Atmanirbhar Bharat Mission. The PPE enterprise in India drastically made ₹7,000 crores (US$980 million) in just two months (March to May 2023). The Atmanirbhar Bharat Mission? Pillars and Goals Atmanirbhar Bharat (Atmanirbhar Bharat) is the vision of Shri Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India who has a formidable plan to make India a self-reliant nation. Starting with an initiative evolved by way of Suchak, he launched the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ or ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Mission’ on 12 May 2020 while he introduced the finances for the coronavirus pandemic. There were many government decisions such as amending the definition of MSMEs, growing non-public region participation in diverse sectors and growing FDI within the defence quarter as part of the Self-Reliant India scheme and many tasks which include potential technology. The increase of India’s Protective Equipment Sector (PPE) zone from 0 to 2000 portions per day is the best example of Self-Reliant India (Atmanirbhar Bharat). 5 Pillars of Atmanirbhar Bharat India has 5 Pillars to Focus Upon to achieve the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission and plans to focus on each of them: Growth of Economy Infrastructure Development System Vibrant Demography Demand Increase Plan to achieve the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat? 5 Phase Strategy India proposes to build a self-reliant India in the five phases below Phase-I: Growth of Businesses including MSMEs Phase-II: Well-Being of the Poor, including Migrants and Farmers Phase III: Agriculture Growth Phase-IV: New Horizons of Growth Phase-V: Government Reforms and Enablers ​Rs. 20 Lakh Crore Package to Revive Indian Economy With the plan to restore the Indian economy and make India self-reliant, the Indian Prime Minister announced huge finance of Rs. 20 lakh crore – equivalent to 10% of India’s GDP. The budget is supposed to guide MSMEs, and agriculture and is to be dispensed in 5 phases mentioned above. To date, India has had the maximum intense closed society within the globe with very little financial support for the weaker sections of the economy. The size of the package deal reflects the preference to compensate migrant workers and their families for their plight. MSMEs, Agriculture and other key sectors are the pillars of the Self-Reliant India Mission. The country has put together a rescue plan of approximately 13% of its GDP. Conclusion: At the present juncture, when we need both growth and jobs, there can be no second thoughts about the industrial revolution. A well-thought industrial policy can change the ecosystem which can transform India into a global manufacturing hub with competitive pricing, and innovation, and make the country an attractive investment destination.  

Is democracy hampering India’s progress – 2023?

Democracy-and-Dictatorship

Theme: Democracy, as an ideology, has been termed as an essential pillar of progress and development internationally. In the case of India, the world’s biggest democracy, the role of democratic governance in fostering development has been a challenge to debate.  This article targets to know about the complicated relationship between democracy and India’s progress by analyzing examples and records.   Pros of Democracy: Democracy as a Unifying Force: India’s democratic system has been instrumental in promoting social cohesion by presenting a platform for diverse voices to be heard and represented.  The ideas of equality, freedom, and recognition of personal rights embedded in democratic beliefs make a contribution to fostering a feeling of inclusiveness and shared identification. The Constitution of India, with its emphasis on secularism, has played a pivotal role in retaining social harmony with the aid of imparting equal rights and protection to all citizens, no matter their faith or ethnicity.   Stability and Governance: One of the important thing advantages of democracy are its capability to make certain balance and proper governance. India’s democratic system has successfully navigated several demanding situations, inclusive of non-secular and ethnic diversity, making sure stability and social cohesion.  India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has proven regular growth through the years, attaining approximately $2.8 trillion in recent times. This increase may be attributed, in component, to the stability supplied via India’s democratic governance. Inclusive Development: Democracy gives a sturdy emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that the benefits of development are shared throughout society. India’s democratic device has played an essential position in empowering marginalized groups and fostering social justice via affirmative movement guidelines and illustration in decision-making bodies. According to the World Bank, the poverty in India has substantially declined through the years, from 45% in 1994 to around 21% in 2023. This development can be attributed, in element, to democratic guidelines geared toward inclusive improvement. Accountability and Transparency: The Right to Information (RTI) Act in India allows residents to access authorities’ statistics and records, promoting transparency and maintaining public officers responsible. This regulation has been instrumental in exposing corruption scandals and empowering residents to demand better governance. According to Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, India has witnessed upgrades in its corruption ranking, shifting from 78th place to 75th place in 7 years. This high-quality trend indicates the effect of democratic measures in curtailing corruption. Democracy and Women’s Empowerment in India India’s democratic framework has furnished a platform for ladies to voice their concerns, call for the same rights, and take part in choice-making tactics.  Democracy’s emphasis on equality, justice, and illustration has paved the way for widespread advancements in women’s empowerment. The implementation of constitutional provisions, together with reservations for women in local governance (Panchayati Raj establishments), has led to accelerated political participation and illustration of women in grassroots selection-making.   Challenges in Democracy: While democracy has surely contributed to India’s progress, it is not without demanding situations.  The democratic method may be sluggish, hindering timely choice-making. Additionally, factors such as electoral populism, political polarization, and inefficient implementation of rules can impede development. The implementation of huge-scale infrastructure tasks in India has regularly faced delays because of bureaucratic hurdles and criminal complexities.  The World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index ranks India 63rd out of 190 nations, indicating the need for persevered reforms to improve the business surroundings and accelerate progress. Example: Although China is not a democratic country, its fast monetary boom, infrastructure improvement, and dominance in manufacturing and worldwide trade have contributed to its popularity as a more potent economic system as compared to India. One of the large demanding situations in democracies is the growing polarization of political parties and ideologies. When specific factions come to be deeply divided, it is able to cause gridlock, prevent consensus-building, and make it hard to address issues. Polarization can also make a contribution to a lack of consideration in democratic institutions and approaches, undermining the general democratic device. Corruption poses a vast chance to democracy. When public officials interact with corrupt practices, it erodes public trust, diverts resources from public welfare, and unfollows the regulation. Additionally, a loss of transparency and duty can weaken democratic institutions and avoid the powerful functioning of democratic methods. Persistent socioeconomic inequalities can stress democratic structures. When there are large disparities in wealth, training, and opportunities, certain segments of the population can also feel marginalized or excluded from the democratic manner. This can lead to social unrest, political instability, and challenges to the democratic establishments. Conclusion: The courting between democracy and India’s development is complex and multifaceted. While democracy is a crucial element in fostering balance and inclusivity. It is essential to strike a balance between democratic principles and uniform governance to make certain sustained progress. India’s adventure in the direction of progress will require ongoing reforms, institutional strengthening, and energetic citizen participation. By addressing the demanding situations and leveraging the blessings of democratic governance, India can keep its course closer to prosperity and inclusive improvement.  

INDIAN B-SCHOOLS 2023 – ANALYSIS OF PROS AND CONS

Indian B-Schools

  Theme: Indian B-Schools have been a subject of debate for a long term. People once believed that management could not be taught in the classroom — that management education must be based on experience. In this weblog, we are able to discover the effectiveness of Indian B-schools in 2023, with examples and records. Positive Side of Indian B-Schools: Top B-schools are sending their students to big companies for internships to provide them with practical understanding. With increasing Internationalization, Indian B-Schools are improving plenty during the last few years. Indian B-Schools put together college students for the corporate global. They educate dressing etiquette, corporate etiquette, discussion capabilities, teamwork and much more in the path itself. Indian B-schools even have a strong emphasis on realistic mastering. Students are recommended to participate in internships, stay tasks, and case research, which help them develop the talents and information required to tackle actual-world challenges.  This sensible publicity additionally allows college students to build a sturdy community of enterprise connections, which can be priceless on the subject of securing employment opportunities after commencement.   Rankings of Indian B-Schools: According to the Financial Times Global MBA Ranking 2023, the Indian School of Business (ISB) is the very best-ranked enterprise school in India, ranked at 39. Other Indian B-colleges that made it to the top 100 encompass IIM Ahmedabad (51), IIM Bangalore (52), and IIM Calcutta (76). In the QS Global MBA Rankings 2023, ten Indian B-Schools have been ranked inside the top 200 and top 250, respectively. Placements: Indian B-schools offer greater structured placements than abroad, as said by the director of IIM Indore. This is a fantastic component for students who want to pursue careers in business. Scholarships: Many top universities and applications offer GMAT scholarships for Indian aspirants. However, a high GMAT rating to get a scholarship does not assure your risk as it additionally relies upon the student’s professional and personal profile. It remains recommended to acquire a GMAT score above 700-750 for top B-school scholarships. Some of the top GMAT scholarships supplied through renowned business Schools consist of the Haas School of Business Dr Tahir Fellowship for college students of the undergraduate program from Asian countries and Booth School of Business Akhtar H. Challenges: Indian B-schools are exceedingly powerful in offering excellent training to college students who need to pursue careers in business. However, instructional research is conserving again Indian schools from further ranking profits. With the exception of ISB, Indian B-colleges are lagging at the back of instructional research, which accounts for 10% of the FT ranking. Only 24 participants inside the listing of two-year programs in BT-MDRA India’s Best B-Schools Survey 2023 have at least one global. Most of the syllabus in Indian B-schools is relevant to the advanced economies of the West but not to growing economies like India. Though some B-schools like IIMs, IITs are competing with global standards. And all the ultimate commercial enterprise schools are not sincerely looking to improve their path requirements. According to the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham), approximately 93% of India’s B-college graduates aren’t genuinely employable. Most of the business colleges in India are going through the troubles like loss of infrastructure, terrible faculty, lack of research opportunities and so on. The Indian Business schools pick out their students in large part on the idea of marks.  Except for more or less 2-3% of B-Schools, it has emerged as an enterprise, with expenses rising as high as 15 lakhs and the number of college students in a category being greater than 200 in a few Schools. Only some colleges have been presenting the right attention to this trouble. Indian MBA colleges have turned out to be placement factories. There is a shortage of properly-trained teachers at higher educational institutes. Even that is the case with the top institutes like IITs, IIMs, and so forth. A shortage of PhDs, delays in recruitment and lack of incentives have been important causes of the incapacity of the institutes to nurture new expertise. The trouble lies now not only in better training but in primary training, in which low-first-class training results in the vulnerable basics of the scholars. Indian B-Schools are placement oriented rather than education orientated. Admission to B-schools isn’t that hard due to the supply of control quota. This diluted price of B-Schools. Over-professionalization of commercial enterprise education is curbing innovation. Infrastructure in Indian B-Schools:  Most B-colleges have incredibly certified faculty participants with considerable industry experience, who’re able to offer students insights and views that pass beyond textbook information. The college also serves as a mentor to college students, imparting them with steering and support during their instructional adventures. Infrastructure is some other critical issue that contributes to the effectiveness of Indian B-schools. Most B-schools have cutting-edge facilities, which include properly-prepared lecture rooms, libraries, and laptop labs, which help college students study in a conducive environment. Many B-schools additionally offer current amenities which include recreational regions, sports centres, and cafeterias, which make contributions to the general gaining knowledge of enjoyment. Conclusion: In the end, Indian B-schools are fantastically effective in supplying high-quality training to college students who need to pursue careers in commercial enterprise. However, there is nevertheless room for development, specifically in instructional studies. The scores display that Indian B-schools are making progress and are on par with their American peers. With greater established placements and scholarships. 

A Strong Analysis of Tech Layoffs – 2023

Tech Layoffs

Theme: In the ever-evolving international era, tech layoffs can be a harsh fact. Companies are frequently into layoffs because of diverse motives, together with financial constraints, restructuring, or changes in marketplace demands. Understanding the motives in the back of tech layoffs, gaining knowledge of the way to stay constant, exploring powerful upskilling techniques, and familiarizing oneself with different sorts of layoffs can help navigate those difficult times.  Layoff Stats: In 2023, tech layoffs have yet again cost tens of thousands of workers their jobs, the workforce layoffs have been driven by the biggest names in tech like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Yahoo, Meta and Zoom. Startups, too, have announced cuts across all sectors, from crypto to enterprise SaaS.    The reasoning behind these workforce reductions follows a common script, citing the macroeconomic environment and a need to find discipline on a tumultuous path to profitability. Still, tracking the layoffs helps us to understand the impact on innovation, which companies are facing harsh pressures and who is available to hire for the businesses lucky to be growing right now. It also, unfortunately, serves as a reminder of the human impact of layoffs and how risk profiles may be changing from here.  The running total of layoffs for 2023 based on full months to date is 2,10,721 according to Layoffs.fyi. Tech layoffs conducted to date this year currently exceed the total number of tech layoffs in 2022, according to the data in the tracker. January: 84,714 employees were laid off  February: 36,491 employees were laid off  March: 37,109 employees were laid off April: 17,926 employees were laid off  May: 14,555 employees were laid off  For example:  Taxfix Announced on May 30 that it has laid off 20% of its body of workers—120 employees. Meta Meta announced on May 24 that it’s far laying off approximately 6,000 employees. Overall, about 21,000 employees have lost their jobs at Meta. JioMart Reliance Retail’s online shopping platform laid off over 1,000 employees on May 22 and plans to reduce as many as 9,900 extra roles over the coming weeks. Spotify Spotify introduced on June 5 that it will cut 2% of jobs in its podcast unit, main to a body of workers. This comes only a few months after the agency announced a tremendous wave of layoffs. Amazon Amazon announced on April 26 that it’s shutting down its Halo Health department on July 31, among other divisions. The layoffs are part of the 9,000 personnel introduced in March. Including the 18,000 layoffs introduced in January, this brings the entire to 27,000 process cuts or 8% of Amazon’s corporate team of workers this 12 months. Reasons for Tech Layoffs:  Economic Downturn: During periods of economic uncertainty or recession, corporations may also revel in a decline in the enterprise, main to layoffs to reduce expenses and ensure sustainability. Technological Advancements: Rapid improvements in generation can render sure activity roles or talents out of date, necessitating layoffs as corporations adapt to live competitively. Restructuring and Reorganization: When corporations undergo mergers, acquisitions, or reorganization, redundancies in roles and positions can also stand up, resulting in layoffs. Cost Reduction: Companies may additionally downsize their group of workers to lessen working fees, particularly whilst confronted with price range constraints or declining sales. Shift in Market Demand: Changes in consumer alternatives or marketplace dynamics can prompt corporations to reevaluate their techniques, mainly to layoffs in unique departments or divisions. Layoffs vs Firing:  Tech layoffs contain the termination of multiple employees, regularly due to organizational reasons at the same time as firing is the single termination of an employee based totally on performance or behavioural issues.  Tech layoffs are broader in scope and require a based method while firing specializes in person situations and might bring about on-the-spot termination. Understanding those variations can assist employees and task seekers navigate the employment landscape, being robust to ability challenges, and working hard as a result.  It is crucial to remain adaptable, continuously enhance abilities, and hold professionalism to decrease the threat of both tech layoffs and firing. Consistency in Uncertain Times: Adaptability: In the face of layoffs, it’s far crucial to stay adaptable and open to exchange. Embrace an increased attitude and be inclined to accumulate new competencies and explore exclusive possibilities. Networking: Strengthen your professional network by attending enterprise occasions, becoming a member of online groups, and engaging with friends. Networking can offer treasured connections and the ability to process leads. Continuous Learning: Invest time in expanding your information and skill set. Identify rising traits, do relevant publications or certifications, and live updated with modern-day enterprise traits. Personal Branding: Enhance your online presence via systems like LinkedIn. Showcase your expertise, and percentage industry insights, and establish yourself as an idea leader for your domain. Emotional Resilience: Coping with layoffs can be emotionally hard. Take care of your intellectual health, search for assistance from friends and family, and don’t forget professional help if needed. Upskilling Strategies: Identify In-Demand Skills: Research the abilities which are in excessive demand inside your industry. Analyze task postings, interact with professionals, and perceive regions where upskilling can beautify your employability. Online Courses and Certifications: Explore reliable online studying systems that offer publications and certifications relevant to your preferred competencies. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer to get entry to a huge range of courses. Professional Development Programs: Attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to live updated with enterprise tendencies and expand your network. Many groups provide education packages to assist experts upskill. Mentorship and Coaching: Seek guidance from skilled specialists for your area via mentorship packages or education periods. They can offer treasured insights and recommendations for professional progression. Collaborative Projects and Side Hustles: Engage in collaborative initiatives or begin a facet hustle to use and showcase your newly acquired skills. These reports can upload cost to your resume and demonstrate your proactive method. Types of Layoffs: Mass Layoffs: Large-scale terminations concerning a big range of personnel due to economic crises, organisation-wide restructuring, or plant closures. Department-Specific Layoffs: Layoffs targeted

The strong India-US relation 2023

India-US relation

Theme: India-US Relation is going to transform India. India and the US have agreed to provoke negotiations on a ‘Security of Supply’ (SoS) arrangement and a ‘Reciprocal Defence Procurement’ (RDP) settlement, aimed toward lengthy-time period stability of delivery and for protection and defence cooperation elevated between the two countries. In this weblog, we will look at India-US Relations regarding the agreements of SoS and RDP contracts.  SoS Agreement and RDP Agreement: SoS agreements are bilateral or multilateral agreements between nations aimed toward ensuring the provision and balance of vital sources, specifically inside the field of protection and safety The RDP settlement is a bilateral arms procurement settlement between international locations. It is designed to facilitate the move-procurement of protection gadgets and promote cooperation in research and improvement of shielding equipment. The news on India-US Relations:  President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. And Prime Minister Narendra Modi today affirmed a vision of the United States and India as many of the closest partners in the world – a partnership of democracies looking into the 21st century with wish, ambition, and self-belief.   The India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership are anchored in a brand new degree of trust and mutual knowledge and enriched by way of the warm bonds of family and friendship that inextricably link our international locations collectively.  President Biden and Prime Minister Modi set a route to attain new frontiers across all sectors of area cooperation.   The leaders applauded the growing cooperation on earth and area technology, and space technologies. They welcomed the selection of NASA and ISRO to develop a strategic framework for human spaceflight cooperation by the stop of 2023. President Biden and Prime Minister Modi devoted their administrations to promoting rules and adapting policies that facilitate more generation-sharing, co-improvement, and co-production possibilities between the US and Indian enterprise, government, and academic institutions.  They welcomed the establishment of a joint Indo-US Quantum Coordination Mechanism to facilitate collaboration amongst industry, academia, and government, and our paintings in the direction of a comprehensive Quantum Information Science and Technology agreement.   The United States welcomes India’s participation within the Quantum Entanglement Exchange and in the Quantum Economic Development Consortium to facilitate professional and business exchanges with main, like-minded quantum nations. What are the Key Highlights of the Agreement? Assembling Electric Jets in India: Both facets mentioned the deal for assembling General Electric GE-414 jets in India, which is yet to be finalized. Defence Industrial Cooperation: The roadmap for ‘Defence Industrial Cooperation’ has been concluded among India and the USA, guiding their policy direction for the following couple of years. Both international locations will perceive possibilities for the co-development of new technology and the co-manufacturing of existing and new structures, selling collaboration among defence begin-up ecosystems. Capacity Building and Infrastructure Development through India-US Relation: Capacity building, consisting of Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and strategic infrastructure development. Increase sourcing by means of US agencies from India, particularly Boeing underneath the mega-civil plane deal with Air India. The established order of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) centres by means of US corporations in India to cater to the equipment used by the Indian militia and the area.          4. India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem: The India-US Business Council will release the INDUS-X initiative to increase modern-day technology cooperation among US and Indian organizations, traders, start-up accelerators, and academic studies institutions. How were India-US relations? – The history The India-US strategic partnership is founded on shared values inclusive of dedication to democracy and upholding the regulations-based global system. Both have shared interests in selling global safety, balance, and monetary prosperity via alternate, investment, and connectivity. Economic Relations- India-US The US has emerged as India’s biggest trading companion in 2022-23 because of increasing monetary ties between the two international locations. The bilateral exchange between India and America has extended from USD 7.65 billion to USD 128.55 billion in 2022-23 as against USD 119.5 billion in 2021-22. Exports to the US rose by way of 2.81 billion to USD 78.31 billion in 2022-23 as against USD seventy 6.18 billion in 2021-22, at the same time as imports grew by using approximately 16% to USD 50.24 billion. International Cooperations: India and America cooperate closely with multilateral agencies, consisting of the United Nations, G-20, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Forum, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Trade Organization. The United States welcomed India becoming a member of the UN Security Council in 2021 for a 24 months term and helps a reformed UN Security Council that consists of India as a permanent member. Together with Australia and Japan, the US and India convene because the Quad is to sell a loose and open Indo-Pacific and provide tangible advantages to the area. India is likewise certainly one of twelve international locations partnering with the USA on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). India is a member of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), at which the United States is a speak associate. In 2022, America joined the International Solar Alliance based in India.  Conclusion: The partnership between the two countries is important for ensuring an unfastened, open, and regulations-sure Indo-Pacific area. The unheard-of Demographic Dividend offers good-sized opportunities for the United States and Indian companies for generation switch, production, alternate and funding. India is rising as a leading participant in an international system this is undergoing an unprecedented transformation.  It shall use its present situation to explore opportunities to similarly its crucial pursuits.  

Uniform Civil Code(UCC) 2023 – The ongoing strong debate

Uniform civil code

What is Uniform Civil Code (UCC)? A Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is a set of legal guidelines that would be equal for all spiritual communities in a country. It would cover subjects like marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and associated problems. The idea is to replace the extraordinary personal legal guidelines primarily based on extraordinary non-secular agencies with a single set of legal guidelines that could practice by everybody. The current news on UCC: The Law Commission of India released a public observation searching for feedback on the Uniform Civil Code on 14th June 2023. The previous consultation paper on the Uniform Civil Code became issued by means of the 21st Law Commission in August 2018. The modern notification acknowledges the importance and relevance of the problem, prompting the 22nd Law Commission to revisit it. The Uniform Civil Code goals to create a standard set of legal guidelines for private matters together with marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, and succession. The proposed legal guidelines might be relevant to all citizens no matter their caste, gender, or religion. The Law Commission’s name for evaluations and remarks indicates a radical exam and attention of public opinion. The 5 years between the preceding and contemporary fee’s engagement highlights the importance and complexity of the Uniform Civil Code. The Uniform Civil Code intends to harmonize private legal guidelines across exceptional spiritual groups and set up a unified criminal framework. The Law Commission’s public word shows a dedication to inclusivity and equal treatment under the law for all citizens. The courtroom orders associated with the Uniform Civil Code have contributed to the renewed attention and importance given to this problem with the aid of the Law Commission. India’s Diversity: Currently, Indian non-public regulation is all fairness complex, with each religion adhering to its unique legal guidelines. Separate legal guidelines/ customs govern Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, Muslims, Christians, and followers of different religions. Moreover, there is diversity even within groups. All Hindus of us of aren’t ruled by using one law, nor are all Muslims or all Christians. For instance, in the Northeast, there are more than 200 tribes with numerous customary legal guidelines. The Constitution itself protects nearby customs in Nagaland. Similar protections are offered in Meghalaya and Mizoram. The exception to this rule is the kingdom of Goa, in which all religions have a commonplace regulation concerning marriages, divorces, and adoption. Constitutional position: Article 44 of the Constitution lays down that the nation shall endeavour to stable a UCC for citizens throughout the territory of India. Article 44 is some of the Directive Principles of State Policy. Directive Principles aren’t enforceable via the courtroom but are meant to inform and guide governance. Previous efforts of UCC: Shah Bano judgement: In 1986, the Supreme Court’s Shah Bano judgment for renovation was considered a primary step in the direction of UCC. However, it turned into nullification with the aid of the Parliament by passing an amendment to keep the repute quo. Incremental changes over the years: Incremental change has passed off over a long time. Hindu succession became reformed with the aid of Parliament in 2005, and Christian divorce rights have also been reformed in 2001. The courts have step by step affirmed women’s rights of protection, adoption, and so forth. In various judgments, strengthening reform in minority groups. In 2018, the 21st Law Commission underlined that the Uniform Civil Code is neither important nor ideal at this stage. It argued for reform of own family laws of each religion thru amendments and codification of sure elements to cause them to gender-simply. It in addition stated that cultural diversity can not be compromised to the quantity that our urge for uniformity itself turns into a motive for a risk to the territorial integrity of the kingdom. Need for UCC: 1. To promote national unity Historically, one of the factors that have stored India back from advancing to nationhood has been the life of personal laws primarily based on religion. These laws maintain the nation divided into watertight cubicles in many components of existence. A uniform regulation made applicable to all would promote national harmony. 2. Different personal laws are put to subversive use There were times of Hindus converted to Islam, as bigamy is a part of Muslim private legal guidelines in the country. 3. To promote gender justice A uniform civil code is needed for gender justice. The rights of ladies are generally limited below non-secular regulations, be they Hindu or Muslim. 4. Not in the domain of religious activities Matters together with inheritance, marriage, divorce etc. Do no longer need to do something with spiritual sports. Hence, any regulation on these elements might no longer amount to the infringement on religious freedom extended via Article 25. 5. The vision of constitution-makers The Constitution makers had an imaginative and prescient to enact UCC in future to have the same set of civil legal guidelines governing all irrespective of religion. Enactment of UCC is needed to fulfil this dream. Arguments against UCC: 1. Diversity cannot be compromised for uniformity The imposition of UCC could lead to overlooking the variety of Indian cultures, customs, ethnicity, languages, religious ideologies and so on. From north to south and from east to west, each state in India has a one-of-a-kind lifestyle and a specific outlook toward existence. 2. Violation of fundamental rights The ideas of marriage, talaq and polygamy are interwoven with the religious and cultural rights of Muslims. State intervention will be the violation of essential rights (Articles 25, 26, 29). 3. Constitution recognises the customary laws and procedures prevailing in NE states In the North Eastern States, the constitution thru the VI schedule recognizes the normal laws and tactics prevailing in their society. Hence, there can be sensible problems in the formulation in addition to the implementation of UCC. 4. Detrimental to communal harmony of India Perception of UCC as an encroachment on spiritual freedom is gaining momentum. In this context, many agree that UCC may be detrimental

The strong India-UAE Relation: 2022-2023

India-UAE

Theme: The India-UAE relationship is booming and benefitting more people in the country by boosting India’s economy. UAE has become the 4th largest investor in India. India’s approach toward Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) is undergoing with more awareness of reaching meaningful markets to get admission to and facilitating the integration of the Indian industry into worldwide value chains. In this weblog let us know more about the India-UAE relationship, history, data and much more.   CEPA CEPA – Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). CEPA is a full and deep Agreement signed on 18 February 2022, during a virtual summit between the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. CEPA entered into force on 01 May 2022. The Commerce Secretary said that both sides are continuing to work together to further improve the Ease of Doing Business between the two countries. Representatives from Industry mentioned the experience of leveraging upon the CEPA to register significant growth in their respective sectors. India-UAE Relation 2023 Utilization of the India-UAE CEPA has been increasing steadily on a month-on-month basis. The number of Preferential Certificates of Origin (COOs) issued under the CEPA increased from 415 in May 2022 to 8440 in March 2023. Over 54,000 COOs were issued under the CEPA during the 11-month (May 22 – March 23) period. India-UAE bilateral relations – The History India and the UAE installed diplomatic members of the family in 1972. The extra push has been done by bilateral family members while the visit of India’s Prime Minister to the UAE in August 2015 marked the beginning of a new strategic partnership between the two nations. Further, for the duration of the visit of the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi to India in January 2017 as the chief visitor at India’s Republic Day celebrations, it turned into an agreement that bilateral family members had been to be upgraded to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This gave momentum to launch negotiations for an India-UAE complete financial partnership agreement. What is the Economic Significance of the India-UAE relationship? The UAE has emerged as an important economic hub not just within the context of the Middle East/West Asia, but additionally globally. The UAE, because of its strategic location, has emerged as an essential financial centre globally. In recent years, the UAE, through its ‘Vision 2021’, has sought to diversify its financial system and decrease its dependency on oil. Since 2012, the increase has been led, in step with a World Trade Organisation file, with the aid of the non-hydrocarbon sectors reflecting the hit diversification of the economy. Although the UAE has various its economy, the hydrocarbon region stays very essential followed through offerings and manufacturing. Within services, financial services, wholesale and retail change, and real estate and business services are the principal individuals. What About India’s Economic Ties with UAE? The India-UAE overall alternate merchandise has been worth U.S.$52.76 billion for the first six months of 2022-23, making the UAE India’s 1/3 largest trading accomplice. The purpose is to reinforce bilateral products change to above U.S.$100 billion and services alternate to U.S.$15 billion in 5 years. An alternate agreement is likewise an enabler for 2-way investment flows. The UAE’s funding in India is anticipated to be around U.S.$ 11.67 billion, which makes it the 4th biggest investor in India. Also, many Indian groups have set up production units both as joint ventures or in Special Economic Zones for cement, constructing substances, textiles, engineering merchandise, client electronics, and so forth, in the UAE. Many Indian companies have also invested in the tourism, hospitality, catering, health, retail, and education sectors. Under India’s made over FTA strategy, the Government has prioritised at least six countries/areas to address, which the UAE figures on the pinnacle of the listing for an early harvest deal (or Interim Trade Agreement), the others are the United Kingdom, the EU, Australia, Canada, Israel and a group of countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The UAE too announced in advance its intention to pursue bilateral monetary agreements with India and seven different countries (U.K., Turkey, South Korea, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Israel, and Kenya). What is an Interim Trade Agreement (ITA)? An interim or early harvest trade settlement is used to liberalise tariffs at the alternate of sure items between international locations or trading blocs before a complete FTA is concluded. The authorities’ emphasis on meantime agreements can be tactical so that a deal can be completed with minimal commitments and might allow for contentious issues to be resolved later. Recently, India and Australia announced plans to finish an ITA. Salient Features of CEPA: Trade in Goods: The CEPA affords preferential marketplace get right of entry to over 80% of products traded between India and the UAE. India will enjoy the discount or removal of price lists on its exports to the UAE, specifically in sectors such as gems and jewellery, textiles, leather-based, footwear, sports activities goods, plastics, furniture, agricultural and wooden merchandise, engineering merchandise, clinical gadgets and cars. Trade in Services: The CEPA covers 11 broad carrier sectors and greater than 100 sub-sectors, including business offerings, communique services, production and associated engineering offerings, distribution services, instructional services, environmental services, financial services, health-associated and social offerings, tourism and travel-related offerings, leisure cultural and sporting offerings and transport offerings. Both nations have provided enhanced marketplaces to get an entry for each different service carrier across these sectors. Investment: The CEPA presents a liberal and non-discriminatory regime for pass-border investment between India and the UAE. It additionally includes provisions for, dispute agreements and cooperation on funding facilitation. Some Other Areas of Cooperation: Protection and promotion of investments Technical barriers to trade (TBT) Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures Dispute settlement Movement of natural persons Pharmaceutical products Intellectual property rights (IPR) Indian Exports to the UAE: At present, Indian exports to