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Subject: Indian Society

  • Stricter Rules for Indian Students Pursuing Higher Education Abroad

    Introduction

    • Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education in English-speaking countries, notably Canada and the U.K., are facing increased difficulties due to tightening immigration rules.
    • This shift in regulations is affecting various aspects of the admission process and has raised concerns among higher education experts.

    Recent Policy Changes

    [1] Canada’s Revised Requirements:

    • The Canadian government, responding to political tensions with India, revised its requirements in December 2023 to enhance the protection of international students.
    • Notable Changes:
      1. The Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) amount, necessary for visa applications, increased from 10,000 Canadian dollars (approximately ₹6.15 lakh) to 20,635 Canadian dollars (around ₹12.7 lakh).
      2. Canada has limited the total number of study permits or student visas to be issued to 3.6 lakh, down from nearly four lakh.

    [2] UK’s Restriction on Dependant Family:

    • Starting in 2024, international students in the UK will be prohibited from bringing dependant family members while pursuing their studies.

    [3] Increased GIC Requirements in Other Countries:

    • Countries like Germany and Australia have steadily raised their GIC amounts by around 10% annually, with Germany requiring 11,208 euros (₹10 lakh) for visa applications as of May 2023.

    Impact on Students

    • Financial Challenges: The substantial increase in GIC requirements, such as in Canada, poses financial challenges for Indian students, making it difficult to afford living expenses in expensive countries.
    • Reduced Visa Accessibility: Canada’s reduction in the number of study permits affects Indian students’ access to higher education in the country.
    • Change in Study Choices: The stricter rules have led to changes in study preferences, with some students considering countries like Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the Netherlands, Finland, Taiwan, and Israel as alternative destinations for their education.

    Mixed Implications

    • Addressing Diploma Mills: Canada’s measures are aimed at curbing the issue of ‘diploma mills,’ improving the quality of education, and discouraging unethical practices by agents.
    • Impact on Bachelor’s Degree Seekers: While master’s program students benefit from eased norms, those pursuing bachelor’s degrees in Canada face uncertainty and delays in their visa applications.

    Conclusion

    • The recent changes in admission rules for Indian students seeking higher education abroad highlight the evolving landscape of international education.
    • These alterations necessitate adaptability among students and have sparked shifts in study preferences towards countries with more accessible pathways

  • Micro-credentials, the next chapter in higher education

    Higher Education In India | 06 Apr 2020

    Central Idea:

    The article advocates for a more active role of Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) in India to enhance students’ employability by incorporating micro-credentials, short-duration learning activities validating specific skills. It emphasizes the need to bridge the gap between traditional education and current job requirements, highlighting the flexibility and accessibility of micro-credentials. The evolving hiring practices, prioritizing skills over degrees, further reinforce the significance of these short-duration learning programs.

    Key Highlights:

    • Micro-Credentials Definition: Short-duration learning activities proving specific outcomes, offering flexibility for learners.
    • Changing Hiring Practices: Shift towards prioritizing skills over degrees in recruitment.
    • Industry Players: Various organizations and universities globally providing micro-credentials.
    • National Credit Framework (NCrF): In India, a framework outlining learning outcomes and credits for progression.
    • Quality Benchmarking: The importance of ensuring consistent quality standards and regulations for micro-credentials.
    • Trust Building: Reliable assessment methods critical to fostering trust in micro-credentials.
    • Potential Impact: Micro-credentials as a valuable addition to traditional education, enhancing students’ skills.

    Key Challenges:

    • Quality Assurance: Ensuring consistent quality in micro-credentials to prevent divergence in learning outcomes.
    • Regulation: The need for clear regulations to facilitate recognition and endorsement in workplaces and educational institutes.
    • Assessment Methods: Developing reliable assessment methods critical for establishing trust in micro-credentials.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Micro-Credentials: Short-duration learning activities proving specific outcomes.
    • National Credit Framework (NCrF): Framework in India outlining learning outcomes and credits.
    • Just-in-Time Skills: Acquiring skills when needed, addressing the gap between traditional education and current job requirements.

    Key Quotes:

    • “Hiring practices are changing, with a tendency to prioritize skills over degrees.”
    • “Micro-credentials are evolving as the new normal in higher education.”

    Key Statements:

    • The article asserts the need for HEIs to play a more active role in enhancing students’ employability.
    • Micro-credentials are presented as a disruptive solution to bridge the knowledge gap between traditional education and job requirements.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Atingi, Alison.com, Credly, Coursera, edX, FutureLearn, Google, Linkedin, Microsoft, PwC, and Udacity are mentioned as organizations providing micro-credentials.
    • Reference to the National Credit Framework (NCrF) in India as a guideline for learning outcomes and credits.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • The National Education Policy 2020 focuses on providing skilled education from school to higher levels.
    • Micro-credentials can be one to five credit short modules, aligning with the NCrF.

    Critical Analysis:

    The article underscores the evolving nature of education and employment, recognizing the importance of skills over traditional degrees. It emphasizes the potential of micro-credentials in addressing these shifts and encourages collaboration between HEIs and industries.

    Way Forward:

    • Collaboration: Encourage collaboration between HEIs and industries for the development of credit-based micro-credentials.
    • Regulation: Establish clear regulations to harmonize micro-credentials with existing academic programs.
    • Quality Assurance: Ensure consistent quality in micro-credentials through reliable assessment methods.
    • Awareness: Raise awareness among students and employers about the value of micro-credentials in enhancing skills and employability.

  • Budgetary increase for Lakhpati Didi Scheme

    Introduction

    • The interim budget for 2024-25 has introduced an expansion of the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme, designed to empower women’s self-help groups.

    About ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme

    • Launch: The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme was inaugurated on August 15, 2023.
    • Objective: The government aims to create two crore prosperous sisters in rural villages, aligning with the broader mission of poverty alleviation and economic empowerment.
    • Skill Training: Women participants receive skill training to enable them to earn an income exceeding Rs 1 lakh annually.
    • Technology Integration: Women’s self-help groups (SHGs) will have access to drones for agricultural activities, harnessing technology to transform rural agriculture while empowering women.

    Leveraging Drone Technology

    • Drone Training: Approximately 15,000 women’s SHGs will undergo training in operating and repairing drones.
    • Income Generation: This initiative not only opens new avenues for income generation but also equips women with cutting-edge skills.
    • Agricultural Revolution: Drones hold the potential to revolutionize agriculture, facilitating precision farming, crop monitoring, and pest control.

    Skill Diversification

    • Skill Development: Women under this scheme receive training in diverse skills such as LED bulb making, plumbing, and more.
    • Eligibility Criteria: Participants must be active members of self-help groups.

    Application Process

    • Self-Help Groups: To apply for the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme, women should be part of self-help groups.
    • Local Anganwadi Centres: Additional information and application forms are available at local Anganwadi centres.

  • Express View on student suicides: After Niharika

    Insights into Editorial: Preventing student suicides - INSIGHTSIAS

    Central Idea:

    The article highlights the alarming increase in student suicides, particularly in Kota, as a consequence of the intense pressure and expectations associated with high-stakes competitive exams such as JEE and NEET. It emphasizes the need for a collective effort from parents, teachers, institutions, and policymakers to address the underlying issues leading to these tragic outcomes.

    Key Highlights:

    • Kota witnessed 29 student suicides in coaching centers last year, reflecting the profound toll of competitive exam stress.
    • The National Crime Records Bureau’s 2022 report revealed that students and the unemployed constituted a significant portion of total suicides.
    • The article points to a deeper societal issue originating in parental ambitions and culminating in high-pressure attempts to secure seats in prestigious institutions.
    • The cost of such aspirations includes prolonged study hours, loneliness, and relentless pressure on young individuals.

    Key Challenges:

    • A societal emphasis on unrealistic goals and expectations from parents can lead to severe mental health issues among students.
    • The pressure to succeed in competitive exams contributes to anxiety and desperation among the youth.

    Key Terms:

    • JEE: Joint Entrance Examination.
    • NEET: National Eligibility cum Entrance Test.

    Key Phrases:

    • “Disquieting spike in student deaths.”
    • “Cost of aspiration: interminable hours of studying, loneliness, and unrelenting pressure.”
    • “Recognizing potential as a gesture of confidence or a source of despair.”

    Key Quotes:

    • “The future need not be one of anxiety and duress, of expectations so onerous that they become the sole metric of achievement.”
    • “Change requires everyone to own responsibility, a conscious effort to open up minds, and rethink ways of seeing.”

    Key Statements:

    • “The article highlights the alarming increase in student suicides, particularly in Kota, as a consequence of the intense pressure and expectations associated with high-stakes competitive exams.”
    • “The future need not be one of anxiety and duress.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • The case of Niharika Solanki, an 18-year-old student who died by suicide in Kota.
    • The National Crime Records Bureau’s 2022 annual report.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • Kota witnessed 29 student suicides in coaching centers last year.
    • Students and the unemployed constituted 7.6% and 9.2% of total suicides, respectively.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The article effectively points out the societal issues leading to student suicides but does not delve deeply into specific solutions or policy recommendations.
    • There is an implicit call for a more compassionate and realistic approach to education and societal expectations.

    Way Forward:

    • A collective effort is needed from parents, teachers, institutions, and policymakers to address the root causes of student stress and suicides.
    • There is a necessity to redefine success and achievement, focusing on holistic development rather than narrow metrics.
    • Encouraging open conversations about mental health and providing adequate support systems can contribute to a more balanced and compassionate educational environment.

  • A blurred mapping of internal female migration

    Big strides on path for women migrant workers in eastern India - India News | The Financial Express

    Central Idea:

    The article highlights the often overlooked and underreported aspects of female migration in India, particularly in the context of internal migration. It emphasizes the need for a more accurate understanding of the challenges faced by migrant women, their motivations, and employment status, ultimately advocating for better-informed policies to address their specific needs.

    Key Highlights:

    • Migrant women in India are a significant but marginalized group, with national surveys providing an inaccurate portrayal of their motivations and employment status.
    • Existing data underestimates the number of migrant women engaged in casual or informal employment due to definitional issues and societal beliefs.
    • The article argues that the entry of women into the formal labor force is hindered by factors such as low education levels, lack of social networks post-migration, and the need for more human and social capital.
    • Despite a 101% increase in female migration for labor/employment between 2001 and 2011, there is a lack of targeted policies and political attention for this demographic.
    • The article suggests that policy-making needs to be more informed about the specific needs, motivations, and conditions of female migrants.

    Key Challenges:

    • Inaccurate representation in national surveys leading to a lack of understanding of the secondary motivations for migration among women.
    • Underreporting of employment status due to definitional issues and societal beliefs about women’s roles.
    • Barriers to entry into the formal labor force, including low education levels, lack of social networks, and the need for more human and social capital.
    • Marginalization of female migrant issues in policy-making due to their limited influence as a vote bank.

    Key Terms:

    • Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR)
    • Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)
    • Casual labor
    • Human and social capital
    • One Nation One ration card
    • e-Shram
    • Affordable rental housing complexes

    Key Phrases:

    • “Female migration for labor/employment increased by 101% between 2001 and 2011.”
    • “Migrant women are proportionally less employed than non-migrant women.”
    • “Entry to the formal labor force is challenging for migrant women due to the need for more human and social capital.”
    • “Dismal recovery of women’s labor activity after the pandemic.”
    • “Policy-making poorly informed about the needs, motivations, and conditions of female migrants.”

    Key Quotes:

    • “There is little dialogue surrounding female migrant issues.”
    • “Despite recent polls, political parties do not campaign to gain migrant women’s votes.”
    • “Women choose forms of employment that allow them to handle domestic duties while contributing to the household’s production or finances.”
    • “A change in narrative is required, starting with increased collection of female-specific data.”

    Anecdotes:

    • Anecdotal evidence suggests that migrant women often engage in casual employment, indicating underestimation of their involvement in various sectors.
    • Women may view unpaid family work or self-employment as an extension of domestic commitment, leading to misreporting of employment status.

    Key Statements:

    • “National surveys convey an inaccurate picture of female migration, especially regarding motivations and employment status.”
    • “Entry to the formal labor force is hindered by factors such as low education levels and lack of social networks.”
    • “Female migrants remain largely invisible, facing significant hurdles and marginalization.”
    • “Political parties do not address the needs of female migrants, resulting in poorly informed policy-making.”

    Way Forward:

    • Compile more information in national surveys regarding socio-economic conditions post-migration, including access to social security benefits.
    • Advocate for the collection of time-use data for migrants to better understand the employment patterns of female migrants.
    • Increase awareness about the challenges faced by female migrants to encourage progressive policymaking.
    • Address barriers to entry into the formal labor force by focusing on education, social networks, and human and social capital.
    • Encourage a change in narrative and prioritize the needs of female migrants in policy-making.

  • Key takeaways from All India Survey of Higher Education (AISHE), 2021-22

    Introduction

    • The All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) captures student enrollment across eight levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, MPhil, diploma, PG diploma, certificate, and integrated programs.
    • The survey received responses from 10,576 standalone institutions, 42,825 colleges, and 1,162 universities/university-level institutions.

    About AISHE

    • AISHE is a report published by the Ministry of Education since 2011.
    • Aim: Portray the status of higher education in the country.
    • Survey covers all institutions in India providing higher education.
    • Data collected on parameters like teachers, student enrollment, programs, exam results, education finance, and infrastructure.
    • Indicators calculated: Institution Density, Gross Enrolment Ratio, Pupil-teacher ratio, Gender Parity Index, Per Student Expenditure.
    • Higher Education defined as education obtained after completing 12 years of schooling or equivalent.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1] Enrollment Trends: Female Dominance

    • Rising Female Enrollment: The AISHE report reveals a consistent increase in female enrollment in higher education institutions.
    • 2014-15 to 2021-22: Female enrollment grew by 32%, from 1.5 crore in 2014-15 to 2.07 crores in 2021-22. In the last five years, it increased by 18.7% from 1.74 crore in 2017-18.
    • PhD Enrollment Surge: The most significant growth was observed at the PhD level, with 98,636 women enrolled in 2021-22, compared to only 47,717 eight years ago.
    • Proportion of Women: Among the additional 91 lakh students joining higher education in 2021-22 compared to 2014-15, 55% were women. The postgraduate level saw the highest proportion of female students, with 55.4%.

    [2] Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) and Gender Parity

    • GER Insights: The estimated GER for the age group 18-23 years in India is 28.4, based on 2011 census data.
    • State-wise GER: States with the highest GER include Chandigarh (64.8%), Puducherry (61.5%), Delhi (49%), and Tamil Nadu (47%).
    • Gender Parity Index (GPI): GPI measures the ratio of female GER to male GER. In 26 states and Union Territories, GER favors women. At the national level, the GPI is 1.01, and for SC and ST categories, it is 1.01 and 0.98, respectively.

    [3] Academic Discipline Enrollment

    • UG Enrollment by Discipline: The Bachelor of Arts (BA) program holds the highest enrollment with 1.13 crore students, constituting 34.2% of total undergraduate enrollment. Overall, 3.41 crore students are enrolled in UG programs.
    • UG Discipline Preferences: UG enrollment distribution in 2021-22 is led by Arts (34.2%), followed by Science (14.8%), Commerce (13.3%), and Engineering & Technology (11.8%). BA(Hons) accounts for 6.2%.
    • PG Enrollment: Social science has the highest number of postgraduate students with 10.8 lakh. The Master of Arts (MA) program leads with 20.9 lakh students, constituting 40.7% of total postgraduate enrollment.
    • PhD Discipline: In the PhD category, social sciences rank third after engineering and science. While 52,748 students pursue a PhD in engineering and 45,324 in science, 26,057 opt for PhD in social sciences.

    [4] Preference for Government Institutions

    • Government vs. Private: Surprisingly, 73.7% of all students attend government universities, which constitute only 58.6% of all universities.
    • Government Sector Enrollment: State public universities hold the largest share of enrolment, accounting for around 31% of total university enrolment.
    • Private Universities: In terms of numbers, government-owned universities enroll 71.06 lakh students, while privately managed universities enroll 25.32 lakh students. Students show a preference for government educational institutions.

    [5] Demographics of Graduates

    • Graduation Statistics: In the 2021-22 academic year, an estimated 1.07 crore students graduated from various programs, with 50.8% being women.
    • Category-wise Graduates: Approximately 35% of graduates belong to Other Backward Classes (OBC), 13% are from Scheduled Caste (SC), and 5.7% are from Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities.
    • Stream-wise Graduation: Arts and social sciences streams exhibit higher graduation rates. At the undergraduate level, BA degrees top the list with 24.16 lakh graduates. MA degrees dominate at the postgraduate level with 7.02 lakh graduates. In PhD programs, science leads with 7,408 graduates, followed by engineering and technology with 6,270 graduates.

  • How to tackle malnutrition effectively

     

    Urgent action needed as acute malnutrition threatens the lives of millions of vulnerable children

    Central Idea:

    The article discusses the intricate relationship between nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency, and certain disorders like anaemia. It emphasizes the two-way impact of nutrition and health, citing examples such as iron deficiency anaemia, Vitamin A, and zinc deficiency. The article highlights the challenges in addressing malnutrition and the importance of government interventions like Anaemia Mukt Bharat and Large-Scale Food Fortification (LSFF).

     

    Key Highlights:

    • Nutritional deficiencies, especially iron deficiency, can result from both poor dietary choices and underlying health conditions like celiac disease or infections.
    • The article underscores the inter-generational impact of malnutrition, stating that anaemic mothers often give birth to anaemic babies.
    • Government programs such as Anaemia Mukt Bharat and the Mid-day Meal Scheme aim to address nutritional deficiencies, but effective implementation remains a challenge.
    • The shift from traditional, balanced diets to processed and sugar-laden alternatives is contributing to nutritional deficiencies.
    • About 46% of South Asia’s population lacks access to an affordable balanced diet, with India facing challenges in ensuring a nutrient-adequate diet for its citizens.
    • Large-Scale Food Fortification (LSFF) is proposed as a crucial strategy to enhance ongoing efforts, aligning with micronutrient supplementation and behavioral change measures.

     

    Key Challenges:

    • Effective implementation of government programs like Anaemia Mukt Bharat and the Mid-day Meal Scheme.
    • Lack of access to an affordable balanced diet for a significant portion of the population.
    • Misgivings and resistance among beneficiaries regarding the appearance and texture of fortified foods.
    • The need for an intensive information, education, and communication (IEC) campaign to address misconceptions and build trust.
    • India lags behind in adopting universal food fortification, despite success in iodised salt under the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme.

     

    Key Terms:

    • Anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB)
    • Micronutrient deficiencies
    • Large-Scale Food Fortification (LSFF)
    • Iodised salt
    • Nutrient-adequate diet
    • Information, education, and communication (IEC) campaign

     

    Key Phrases:

    • “Two-way relationship between nutritional deficiencies and certain disorders.”
    • “Malnutrition caused by micronutrient deficiency has inter-generational impacts.”
    • “Challenges of effective implementation persist.”
    • “Dietary patterns have shifted from seasonal and varied foods to processed and sugar-laden alternatives.”
    • “46% of South Asia’s population lacks access to an affordable balanced diet.”

     

    Key Quotes:

    • “The burden of malnutrition is complex and needs to be addressed through multiple interventions.”
    • “The onus seems to be on people to recognize that reducing consumption of processed foods is a crucial step towards ensuring better health outcomes.”
    • “Food fortification may not be the ideal remedy. However, it is a vital first step.”
    • “Awareness is critical to the acceptance of fortified foods among the targeted beneficiaries.”

     

    Key Statements:

    • “Consistent intake of food lacking in essential micronutrients can lead to iron deficiency anaemia and impair immunity.”
    • “LSFF, when aligned with micronutrient supplementation programs, diet diversity promotion, and measures to induce behavioral change has immense potential.”

     

    Key Examples and References:

    • Adoption of iodised salt under the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme in 1992.
    • The success of LSFF in other countries with universal food fortification.
    • Government programs like Anaemia Mukt Bharat and the Mid-day Meal Scheme as interventions.

     

    Key Facts and Data:

    • About 46% of South Asia’s population lacks access to an affordable balanced diet.
    • 74% of India’s population could not afford a healthy diet, and 39% fell short of a nutrient-adequate one.
    • The article mentions data from The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World, 2023.

     

    Critical Analysis:

    The article effectively highlights the complexities of malnutrition, providing a comprehensive view of the two-way relationship between nutrition and health. It emphasizes the need for multifaceted interventions and addresses challenges in implementation and awareness. The proposal of LSFF as a strategy is substantiated by referencing successful past programs like iodised salt. The article uses clear language, making it accessible to a wide audience.

     

    Way Forward:

    • Strengthening implementation of existing government programs.
    • Increasing awareness through intensive IEC campaigns.
    • Focusing on the affordability and accessibility of a balanced diet.
    • Emphasizing the importance of reducing the consumption of processed foods.
    • Urging timely adoption and alignment of Large-Scale Food Fortification to enhance ongoing initiatives.

     

  • In today’s tech-savvy times, the importance of combining shaastra (knowledge) with shastra (weapons)

    Central Idea:

    The article suggests that India’s upcoming National Security Strategy should incorporate a goal of having 10 universities in the top 100 global university rankings by India@100. It argues that the evolving nature of warfare, driven by advancements in technology and changing geopolitical dynamics, necessitates a strong connection between academic knowledge (Shaastra) and military capability (Shastra). The article emphasizes the importance of enhancing India’s educational institutions, particularly through strategic interventions, to bolster national security in an era where the line between civilian and military technology is blurring.

    Key Highlights:

    • Cathal Nolan’s thesis from “The Allure of Battle” is referenced, emphasizing the significance of endurance and technology over decisive battles in military history.
    • The article highlights the changing global dynamics, particularly the US-China relationship and its impact on technology access and partnerships.
    • The erosion of the distinction between civilian and military technology is discussed, with examples such as drones, satellite internet, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and clean energy.
    • The potential risks and responses of major players like China and the US are outlined, reflecting the evolving nature of global geopolitics.

    Key Challenges:

    • The article acknowledges criticisms of global university rankings, citing them as popularity contests, unreliable, incomplete, ideological, and unequal.
    • The challenge of determining the relative importance of different disciplines, such as sciences versus humanities, is mentioned.
    • The article underscores India’s current position in global university rankings (only 11 in the top 500) and the need for rapid improvement.

    Key Terms:

    • Shaastra: Academic knowledge.
    • Shastra: Weapons or military capability.
    • Foundational technologies: Technologies critical for national security.
    • Friendshoring: The potential threat to partnerships with countries deemed friendly.
    • Dual circulation: A policy shift by China to prioritize Chinese technologies over foreign ones.
    • National Security Strategy: A document outlining a country’s approach to ensuring its security.
    • Global university rankings: Lists evaluating universities based on various criteria.

    Key Phrases:

    • “Shaastra and Shastra are siblings”: Stresses the interconnectedness of academic knowledge and military capabilities.
    • “Foundational technologies behind a high fence”: Refers to the US strategy of restricting access to critical technologies.
    • “Friendshoring is threatened”: Indicates the potential impact on partnerships with friendly nations.
    • “Dual circulation now means”: Describes China’s emphasis on using Chinese technologies.
    • “Charge into the valley of death”: A reference to a Tennyson poem, highlighting the need for strategic thinking over blind bravery.

    Key Quotes:

    • “Sweat saves blood, blood saves lives, but brains save both” – Field Marshal Rommel: Emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking in military endeavors.

    Key Statements:

    • “The distinction between civilian and military technology erodes with drones, satellite internet, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and clean energy.”
    • “China’s response by banning Tesla cars and Apple phones from army bases.”
    • “Global rankings matter: 71% of universities have a ranking goal, and 68% use them as a tool for management.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • Reference to the historical role of American universities, particularly MIT, in military partnerships.
    • China’s proactive approach to global university rankings, starting with Project 211 in 1995.
    • Mention of the Defense Technology Council proposed in India to improve project management.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • India has 11 universities in the top 500 global university rankings.
    • China has 71 universities in the top 500 QS rankings due to strategic initiatives from 1995 to 2022.
    • American universities have historically played a crucial role in military advancements.

    Critical Analysis:

    The article effectively links the evolving nature of global warfare with the importance of academic excellence and technological prowess. It presents a critical analysis of the challenges posed by changing geopolitical dynamics and the potential impact on national security. The integration of historical references, global examples, and quotes adds depth to the argument.

    Way Forward:

    • Implement strategic interventions to enhance the top 20 government universities in India.
    • Consolidate independent research labs into top institutions for better research outcomes.
    • Concentrate government research funding to universities and incentivize corporate research collaboration.
    • Introduce performance-based funding to encourage improvements in research metrics and rankings.
    • Strengthen partnerships between universities and the proposed Defense Technology Council for effective project management.

  • Delhi HC upholds Ban on Sapinda Marriages: Legal Insights

    Introduction

    • The Delhi High Court recently dismissed a challenge to the constitutionality of Section 5(v) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (HMA), which prohibits sapinda marriages among Hindus unless custom permits.
    • The court’s decision affirms the legal restrictions on such marriages and emphasizes the importance of regulating marital choices.

    For Aspirants with Sociology Optional, this article is of immense importance under: “Systems of Kinship- Family, household, marriage” in both Paper I and Paper II.

    Understanding Sapinda Marriages

    • Definition: Sapinda marriages involve individuals closely related within specified degrees, as per Section 3(f)(ii) of the HMA.
    • Prohibition: The HMA prohibits sapinda marriages within a certain range of lineal ascent, ensuring that marriages do not occur between individuals with a common lineal ascendant within the defined limits.

    Legal Framework

    • Void Marriages: Sapinda marriages that violate Section 5(v) and lack an established custom permitting them are declared void, meaning they are considered invalid from the outset.
    • Customary Exception: The sole exception to this prohibition arises when both parties’ customs permit sapinda marriages, as defined in Section 3(a) of the HMA.
    • Custom Criteria: To qualify as a custom, it must be continuously observed, uniform, reasonable, and not opposed to public policy, gaining legitimacy among Hindus in a particular area or community.

    Grounds for Challenging the Law

    • Constitutional Challenge: The petitioner contended that Section 5(v) violated the right to equality under Article 14 of the Constitution by requiring proof of custom for sapinda marriages.
    • Lack of Proof: The woman argued that sapinda marriages exist even without documented custom, and the consent of both families validated the marriage.

    High Court’s Decision

    • No Established Custom: The Delhi HC found no stringent proof of an established custom supporting sapinda marriages, which is crucial under the law.
    • Regulation of Marriages: The court upheld the idea that the choice of a marriage partner can be subject to regulation.
    • No Violation of Equality: The petitioner failed to provide compelling legal grounds to challenge the prohibition against sapinda marriages on grounds of violating the right to equality.

    International Perspectives

    • European Laws: In several European countries, laws related to incestuous relationships are less stringent compared to India, allowing marriages between consenting adults.
    • Examples: France, Belgium, Portugal, and Italy have different laws regarding incestuous relationships and marriages.
    • US Laws: In the United States, incestuous marriages are banned in all 50 states, but some states allow incestuous relationships between consenting adults.

    Conclusion

    • The Delhi HC decision reaffirms the legal framework regulating sapinda marriages in India and emphasizes the importance of established customs in permitting such unions.
    • It also highlights the differing legal approaches to incestuous relationships and marriages in various countries.

  • Why India’s runaway Coaching Centres need Regulating?

    coaching

    Introduction

    • The recent government guidelines on regulating the coaching industry have stirred debate and raised questions about the state of education in India.
    • This article delves into the reasons behind the need for these guidelines and the potential impact on various stakeholders.

    Coaching Chaos: What’s the Issue?

    • Early Enrolment Scrapped: The government’s guidelines stipulate that students below 16 years of age should not be enrolled in coaching centers, restricting enrolment to post-secondary school (standard 10) examination.
    • A Shift in Education: This rule has caused concern as coaching centers have evolved into an alternative education pathway. Students as young as 10-12 years old are prepared for highly competitive exams, such as engineering, medical, and civil service, with low success rates.
    • Proliferation of Coaching Centers: Coaching centers are especially popular in states like Bihar, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh.

    The Need for Regulation: Why?

    • Rising Student Suicides: The alarming increase in student suicides, with 26 reported cases in Kota alone in 2023, underscores the immense pressure on schoolchildren.
    • Government’s Concerns: The Department of Higher Education, under the Ministry of Education, expressed the need for regulations in light of issues like student suicides, fire incidents, inadequate facilities, and teaching methodologies.
    • Emergence of ‘Dummy Schools’: The rise of ‘dummy schools’ linked to coaching centers, where physical attendance is not mandatory, has raised concerns. Parents often uproot their families and take loans to relocate to coaching hubs in pursuit of quality education.

    Wider Implications: Who Else Will Be Affected?

    • Ecosystem Impact: Coaching hubs like Kota have an entire ecosystem supporting institutes, students, and families, including middlemen, hostels, and hotels. All of these entities stand to lose out.
    • Real Estate Implications: Families relocating to coaching hubs contribute to local real estate income. Regulation may impact this aspect.
    • Impact on ‘Dummy Schools’: Dummy schools will face closure due to the new regulations.

    Perspectives from the Coaching Centers

    • Coaching Federation of India’s Response: The Coaching Federation of India (CFI), representing over 25,000 coaching institutes, may legally contest the minimum age requirement, seeking a reduction from 16 years to 12 years.
    • Competitive Stress Concerns: Large coaching institutes express concerns that the regulations may intensify competitive stress among students, offering them less time for preparation.
    • Regulatory Effectiveness: There is apprehension that the regulations may not effectively oversee smaller private coaching centers, making it challenging to monitor mom-and-pop establishments.

    Education’s Dependent Dynamic

    • Coaching Dependency: The guidelines shed light on the prevailing reliance on coaching institutes. They supplement students’ regular schooling and often require additional hours of study outside the classroom.
    • Misleading Promises: The guidelines also highlight how institutes sometimes make misleading promises or guarantee high scores, emphasizing that ranks and marks have eclipsed holistic student development.

    Conclusion

    • The government’s new guidelines have ignited a critical discussion about the coaching industry and its role in the Indian education landscape.
    • The regulations aim to address pressing concerns while acknowledging the evolving dynamics of education in the country.