IGNOU Launches BA Programme in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) introduced a Bachelor of Arts programme in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (BAMSME). This programme would be offered through the School of Vocational Education and Training. It seeks to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to launch and successfully manage business ventures.
The BAMSME programme, beginning in the January 2025 academic session, is designed to address the evolving needs of young entrepreneurs in India. With a curriculum spread over three years and worth 120 credits, the programme is for students who have completed their 10+2 education. Delivered in English via the open and distance learning (ODL) mode, the IGNOU programme will offer flexibility and accessibility for learners across the country.
IIT Madras Hosting Saarang 2025: A Cultural Extravaganza
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is hosting the 51st edition of Saarang, one of India's largest student-run annual cultural festivals, from January 9 to 13, 2025. Saarang promises a vibrant celebration of South India's cultural scene, showcasing a rich mix of creativity, diversity, and innovation.
The theme for Saarang 2025, 'Frames and Fables', highlights the art of storytelling and the power of visual expression, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in a world where culture and creativity blend seamlessly.
A highlight of the 51st edition was the Multicultural Folk Parade, to promote traditional art forms while celebrating storytelling. The parade was attended by R. N. Ravi, honourable Governor of Tamil Nadu, marking a significant moment in the history of Saarang.
Jan 08, 2025
IIT-Delhi Launches Certificate Programmes in Finance, Supply Chain, and Semiconductor Technology
The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) introduced three new certificate programmes under its Continuing Education Programme (CEP) in collaboration with TeamLease Edtech. These short programmes will be conducted through live, interactive online sessions in a Direct-to-Device (D2D) format, incorporating industry-relevant case studies and assignments.
The Chief Financial Officer Programme: Any graduate or diploma holder with a minimum of 8 years of experience is eligible for the course.
The Executive Management Programme in Supply Chain and Operations Analytics: Any candidate with a bachelor's degree is eligible for the job application.
The Executive Programme in Semiconductor Manufacturing and Technology: Candidates who are interested in this programme must possess BTech, MSc, 10+2+3 diploma holders.
IIM Mumbai Launches Next-gen PG Diploma in Financial Economics and Management
The Indian Institute of Management, IIM Mumbai, a premier management institute ranked 6th in NIRF 2024, partnered with TalentSprint, a global deep tech education company powered by AI, and introduced a cutting-edge PG diploma programme in Financial Economics and Management.
This collaboration leverages IIM Mumbai's academic excellence and TalentSprint's expertise in outreach and online program delivery to equip professionals with advanced skills and prepare them for challenging roles in an ever-evolving business landscape.
The PG Diploma in Financial Economics and Management is a 45-credit programme designed for both freshers and working professionals and is offered in collaboration with the National Stock Exchange (NSE) as the Knowledge Partner.
Draft Guidelines on College Faculty Hiring, Promotion Proposes Major Changes
The University Grants Commission (UGC) is shaking things up in higher education with its latest draft guidelines. Under the proposed changes, ME and MTech postgraduates with at least 55% marks can directly qualify for assistant professor positions without needing to clear the National Eligibility Test (NET).
Moreover, non-academic industry experts can apply for vice-chancellor posts.
These changes aim to open more doors for engineering and technology postgraduates, streamlining their entry into academic roles.
UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar explained that the UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025 will replace the existing 2018 guidelines.
The UGC also proposes changes to faculty promotions. The Academic Performance Indicator (API) system will no longer be used. Instead, the focus will shift to contributions such as research publications, innovative teaching methods, digital content creation, and securing research funding.
Nadi Tarangini - India's First Ayurvedic Diagnostic Device Approved by CDSCO
Nadi Tarangini, an AI-powered pulse diagnostic device developed by Atreya Innovations, received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), making it India's first ayurvedic medical device to be officially recognised. The device, which combines modern technology with ancient Ayurvedic practices, was created after over six years of research, and aims to revolutionise traditional Ayurvedic diagnostic methods by offering precise health insights through pulse examination.
The device has been conceived by Padma Bhushan awardee Prof. J.B. Joshi and Dr. Aniruddha Joshi after over six years of research at IIT Bombay.
Research initiated due to a personal health issue faced by Prof. J.B. Joshi, which highlighted the importance of pulse examination in Ayurveda.
The device analyzes 22 Ayurvedic parameters, including Tridosha balance (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), stress levels, digestive health, and overall well-being.
Jan 07, 2025
IIT Madras Launches Asia's Largest Shallow Wave Basin for Coastal Research
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) launched Asia's largest Shallow Wave Basin Research Facility, a groundbreaking infrastructure designed to meet both research and industrial needs. This advanced facility, located at the 'Discovery' Satellite Campus in Thaiyur highlights India's growing technical and research prowess in coastal and marine engineering.
Developed under the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways, and Coasts (NTCPWC), the facility is a significant step in addressing challenges related to Indian ports, waterways, and coastal engineering. It features a multi-directional shallow wave basin capable of analysing complex wave-current interactions.
Jan 06, 2025
Two New Special Categories Visas for International Students
The Ministry of Home Affairs introduced two special category visas for international students intending to pursue higher education in the country. Students using any of the two visas, the 'e-student visa' and 'e-student-x' visa will have to use the 'Study in India' (SII) portal launched by the government.
Eligible international students registered on the Study in India (SII) portal can access the e-student visa facility, while dependents of e-student visa holders are eligible for the e-student-x visa.
IIM Mumbai Wins LEAPS-2024 Award for Excellence in Logistics Education
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Mumbai achieved a momentous milestone by securing the LEAPS-2024 Award in the Institutions: Education and Skill Development in the Logistics Sector category. Standing first amongst 34 esteemed participants, the institute further cemented its leadership in logistics education and skill development.
The award was presented to Professor Manoj Tiwari, by Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and Textiles.
Jan 05, 2025
NSDC International, IDP India Collaborate for Global Career Opportunities
NSDC International Limited (NSDCI), a subsidiary of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), partnered with IDP India, the distributor of IELTS exams in India, to enhance the global employability of skilled Indian professionals.
This initiative aims to address gaps in skills and language proficiency, enabling Indian professionals across sectors such as healthcare, IT, engineering, and hospitality to compete in global job markets.
Under this partnership, NSDC International and IDP India will jointly implement a learning and testing ecosystem, integrating digital tools, online and offline training modules, and customised programmes.