Sanjay Pandey Palamu: Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, currently on a three-day visit to Palamu, chaired a review meeting with district officials on Tuesday at the Collectorate auditorium. The meeting focused on the progress made on various indicators under the Aspirational District Programme. Deputy Commissioner Shashi Ranjan briefed the minister on Palamu’s geographical and developmental status.
Health, Nutrition, and Education Under Review
During the review, Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan evaluated the performance in health and nutrition sectors. Officials informed him that over 90% of deliveries in the district are institutional, contributing significantly to reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. The minister also inquired about the care and treatment provided to children suffering from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM). He directed the Civil Surgeon and Social Welfare Officer to work collaboratively to prioritize the health of women and children. In the education sector, Dr. Murugan emphasized the need to address the dropout rates in Classes 5 and 6. Highlighting Palamu’s Delta Ranking of 44 in education, he urged officials to work diligently towards improving this ranking by implementing targeted interventions.
Agriculture, Water Resources, Financial Inclusion, and Infrastructure
Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan reviewed the progress in agriculture and water resources, including seed distribution and vaccination for livestock. He stressed the need to accelerate animal vaccination efforts. The financial inclusion review covered the number of beneficiaries under schemes like Mudra Loans, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and Atal Pension Yojana. Under basic infrastructure, the minister assessed progress in electricity connectivity, internet access in gram panchayats, and coverage of Common Service Centres (CSCs). He also reviewed the status of the Har Ghar Jal Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
Call for Better Coordination and Targeted Efforts
Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan noted that while progress has been made, further improvements are required across sectors to meet the standards set by NITI Aayog for aspirational districts. He instructed officials to work in coordination across departments to enhance education, health, agriculture, and other sectors.
Participants and Closing Remarks
The review meeting was attended by Palamu MP Vishnu Dayal Ram, Deputy Commissioner Shashi Ranjan, Deputy Development Commissioner Shabbir Ahmed, Municipal Commissioner Javed Hussain, Additional Collector Kundan Kumar, along with officials from various departments and engineers. Dr. Murugan concluded the meeting by encouraging the officials to strive collectively for substantial improvements in Palamu’s performance indicators
EW News Ranchi: Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park, (Bhagwan Birsa Jaivik Udyan) the largest zoological park in Jharkhand, continues to play a vital role in wildlife conservation, research, and education. Housing 91 species, including 41 birds, 31 mammals, and 19 reptiles, the park serves as a sanctuary for wildlife and an educational hub for visitors to connect with biodiversity and understand the value of nature’s heritage. In 2024, the park witnessed the birth of several wildlife offspring, adding to its diversity. Notable births include hippopotamus, hyena, sambar, chital, four-horned antelope, blackbuck, white blackbuck, nilgai, langur, and monkeys. Among birds, peacocks, silver pheasants, golden pheasants, budgerigars, parrots, and ostriches have enriched the park’s charm. Reptile hatchlings, including gharials and turtles, have also contributed to the park’s growing biodiversity. To further enhance its diversity, the park welcomed new members from Nandankanan Zoological Park, Bhubaneswar. These include white tigers, foxes, civets, night herons, ibises, grey pelicans, and mouse deer. This initiative not only diversifies the park’s inhabitants but also strengthens conservation and breeding programs, offering visitors a unique learning experience. White tigers, black panthers, white peacocks, and white deer, alongside the newborns, remain the primary attractions, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors. Spending time with these creatures fosters awareness about nature and wildlife conservation.
The park remains closed on Mondays, but it will be open on December 30, 2024, and January 6, 2025, for New Year celebrations. From December 31, 2024, to January 2, 2025, ticket prices will be ₹70 for adults and ₹30 for children aged 3 to 12. Group ticket facilities will not be available on these dates.The park prioritizes visitor comfort with facilities like shaded seating, drinking water, restrooms, and a mother-child care center. Wheelchairs are also available for differently-abled individuals, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all. The management encourages visitors to connect with nature, contribute to wildlife conservation, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park invites everyone to embark on a safe, educational, and memorable journey into the world of biodiversity.
Pay special attention to the facilities of students in residential schools: Aje Nath Jha
Sanjay Pandey
EW News, Ranchi: Tribal Welfare Commissioner Ajay Nath Jha, recently conducted an inspection of the construction work of the girls’ hostel at the Backward Class Girls Residential School in Ranchi, the training being provided to female trainees at the Kalyan Gurukul in Bundu, and the Birsa Munda DAV Residential School in Bundu. During the visit, Tribal Welfare Commissioner assessed the purity and quality of the food being provided to the students and inspected the storehouse, verifying the quality of the food supplies. He instructed the teachers present to ensure that there is no negligence in the education, cleanliness of the campus, or facilities provided to the children. emphasized that students from Scheduled Tribes (ST), Scheduled Castes (SC), and Backward Classes are living in residential schools away from their homes to receive a good education, and it is crucial that they are provided with high-quality education and their comfort is prioritized.
The Minister for Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, and Backward Classes Welfare, Mr. Chamra Linda, had earlier directed the Tribal Welfare Commissioner and regional officers to stay in the area on Friday and Saturday to personally inspect the department’s plans, residential schools, and hostels. During the inspection, Tribal Welfare CommissionerAjay Nath Jha instructed that the construction of the girls’ hostel at the Backward Class Girls Residential School in Ranchi must be completed by August 15, 2025, under all circumstances. He stressed the urgency to shift the girls into the new hostel as soon as possible and ensured that construction work proceeds quickly. He also advised that female home guards be deployed during the construction for security purposes and to maintain high-quality standards without any compromise. The project director in Ranchi has confirmed the availability of funds, and thus, construction work should continue around the clock.
Tribal Welfare Commissioner commended the Kalyan Gurukul in Bundu, operated by the Prejha Foundation, for its exemplary training, discipline, and cleanliness. He was particularly impressed by the eagerness to learn among the female trainees. One trainee shared with the Commissioner that her goal is not just personal advancement but to uplift her village as well. Ajay Nath Jha further directed that improvements in food, cleanliness of the hostel, and the school timetable be implemented strictly at Birsa Munda DAV Residential School in Bundu starting from January 5, when the school reopens. He also congratulated the school for winning gold and silver medals in the recent national sports competitions organized by the DAV Group. The project director of Ranchi ITDA, Mr. Sanjay Kumar Bhagat, was also present during the inspection.
There is a need to develop Malay Dam in a planned manner
Malay Dam offers a picturesque experience, reminiscent of a famous dam in Maharashtra
Sanjay Pandey
Palamu: In Jharkhand is a treasure trove of tourism potential, boasting several captivating destinations. However, there is a pressing need for planned development to unlock the full potential of these sites. Among these, Malay Dam stands out, rivaling the beauty of renowned dams across the country. Located about 30 km from Medininagar on National Highway 75, Malay Dam offers a picturesque experience, reminiscent of a famous dam in Maharashtra. Surrounded by lush greenery, tranquil waters, and a striking hill at its center, the dam has become an emerging attraction for visitors. Tourist Amenities in Need of Upgrade
Despite its natural charm, the road leading to Malay Dam is a single-lane stretch in poor condition, calling for immediate attention. The Malay Dam was constructed in the 1970s, and while its vast reservoir supports irrigation for surrounding villages, there is untapped potential to elevate it into a major tourist destination. The administration has introduced boating facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene waters for a nominal fee. This feature, combined with the dam’s scenic surroundings, has garnered positive feedback from tourists. However, more efforts are required to enhance the infrastructure and facilities, such as better roads, eateries, and resting areas for tourists. Potential to Boost Regional Tourism
Malay Dam is a part of Palamu’s rich tourism landscape, which includes Betla National Park, Palamu Fort, Shahpur Fort, and Mandal Dam, among others. With strategic planning and promotion, the region could attract a higher influx of tourists from across the country. As it stands, many people are unaware of Jharkhand’s natural beauty. Visitors who stumble upon Malay Dam through online searches are often mesmerized by the harmonious blend of forests, mountains, waterfalls, and rivers, leaving with unforgettable memories. Call for Planned Development
With ample open land around Malay Dam and its naturally scenic location, there is tremendous potential to transform it into a world-class tourist spot. Improved road connectivity, promotional campaigns, and sustainable development measures could make Malay Dam a jewel in Jharkhand’s tourism crown. For now, Malay Dam continues to charm those who visit, offering a serene escape into nature’s lap while quietly awaiting its due recognition as a prominent destination.
India witnessed an uncharacteristically dark day in its democratic history when the hallowed halls of Parliament turned into a battleground on Thursday. What should have been a space for discourse and constructive debate became a stage for chaos, allegations, and even physical scuffles. This wasn’t just a political brawl; it was a glaring symbol of the deterioration of democratic norms in the world’s largest democracy.
From controversial remarks to accusations of physical misconduct, the events of the day serve as a sobering reminder of the widening gulf between the ideals of democracy and the behavior of its supposed torchbearers.
The controversy began with a remark by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a Rajya Sabha session. In his speech, Shah criticized the repeated invocation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s name in political discourse, saying, “It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. If they had taken God’s name as often, they’d have secured a place in heaven across seven lifetimes.”
This statement, laced with sarcasm, was bound to provoke outrage. Dr. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and a Dalit icon, holds a revered place in India’s political and social fabric. Shah’s comments were quickly labeled as insensitive, and the Congress accused the BJP of harboring an anti-Dalit mindset. What followed was an eruption of protests, with Opposition MPs demanding an apology and Shah’s resignation.
Shah later clarified that his remarks were being twisted to suit the Opposition’s narrative, accusing Congress of running a malicious campaign. However, the damage was done. The remark became the spark that set off a chain of events culminating in physical altercations and accusations.
The protests escalated outside the debating halls. In an incident that has left the nation stunned, BJP MP Pratap Sarangi sustained head injuries during a scuffle and had to be hospitalized. Sarangi alleged that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pushed him, causing him to lose balance and fall. On the other hand, Rahul claimed that BJP MPs tried to block his way as he attempted to enter Parliament, resulting in the commotion.
Adding another layer of controversy, BJP MP Phangnon Konyak accused Rahul Gandhi of inappropriate behavior during the protests. She claimed that his physical proximity during the altercation made her uncomfortable, a charge she formally brought to the Rajya Sabha Chairman. The allegations turned what was already a volatile situation into a personal and political slugfest, with both parties hurling accusations at each other.
As expected, the political blame game began almost immediately. BJP leaders demanded a public apology from Rahul Gandhi, questioning his fitness to serve as the Leader of the Opposition. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, after visiting the injured MPs at the hospital, called the incident unprecedented and deeply condemnable. “In my 30 years of politics, I’ve never seen anything like this,” he remarked, adding fuel to the outrage.
Congress, on the other hand, accused the BJP of orchestrating the chaos to distract from the real issues plaguing the nation. They claimed the ruling party was using such incidents to silence the Opposition and avoid answering pressing questions about unemployment, inflation, and governance failures.
Caught in the crossfire were the citizens of India, left to wonder whether their elected representatives were genuinely interested in solving the country’s problems or merely engaged in an endless game of political one-upmanship.
This incident raises uncomfortable but necessary questions about the current state of Indian democracy. Parliament is supposed to be the temple of democracy—a place where ideas are debated, policies are discussed, and the future of the nation is shaped. Instead, it is increasingly becoming a theater for political drama, where shouting matches, adjournments, and walkouts dominate headlines over substantive discussions.
The session was particularly critical, with pressing issues such as economic policies, social welfare programs, and national security requiring urgent attention. Yet, instead of deliberating on these matters, Parliament spent its time witnessing chaos and adjournments.
This isn’t the first time such behavior has been on display. Every session sees disruptions and clashes, with both the ruling party and the Opposition equally culpable. The cumulative effect is a loss of public trust in democratic institutions, which should be a cause for concern for every Indian.
The irony of the situation is glaring. The very name of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a staunch advocate for equality and the rule of law, was at the center of a controversy that violated the principles he stood for. Both the BJP and Congress claimed to uphold Ambedkar’s legacy, yet their actions suggested otherwise.
Ambedkar’s vision for democracy was one of reasoned debate, inclusivity, and respect for differing viewpoints. What unfolded in Parliament was the antithesis of that vision. His name was reduced to a tool for political point-scoring, a trend that has become increasingly common in Indian politics.
At its core, the events of Thursday represent a failure of democratic governance. The scuffles, allegations, and counteraccusations are not just a reflection of individual lapses but a systemic issue. Indian democracy thrives on the principle of accountability, yet incidents like these erode public confidence in the system.
While politicians are busy trading punches—figurative and literal—the real issues facing the nation remain unaddressed. Farmers continue to struggle, inflation is squeezing the common man, and unemployment is a ticking time bomb. Yet, these topics rarely make it to the forefront of parliamentary debates, overshadowed by the noise of political theatrics.
The solution to this crisis is both simple and difficult: accountability. Political leaders must introspect and ask themselves whether they are truly serving the people or merely their egos. The sanctity of Parliament must be upheld at all costs. This requires not just rules and procedures but a fundamental shift in mindset—one that prioritizes dialogue over disruption and progress over petty rivalries.
Moreover, citizens have a crucial role to play. As voters, we must demand better from our representatives, holding them accountable not just during elections but throughout their term. This is not a fight between BJP and Congress; it’s a fight for the soul of Indian democracy.
Thursday will go down in history as a black day for Indian democracy, a day when the temple of democracy lost its sanctity. The scuffles, accusations, and counteraccusations were a stark reminder of how far we have strayed from the ideals of governance and public service.
But this dark day also offers a lesson. It’s a wake-up call for all stakeholders in Indian democracy—politicians, institutions, and citizens alike. We must collectively strive to restore dignity to our democratic processes, ensuring that Parliament once again becomes a place of reasoned debate and meaningful decision-making.
Until that happens, every incident like Thursday’s will land not just as a punch on an opponent but as a blow to the very foundation of our democracy.
Under the leadership of Jharkhand’s Rural Development Minister, Deepika Pandey Singh, a three-member delegation met with a minor rape survivor from Jharkhand in Vadodara, Gujarat, to assess her condition and offer support. The minister and her team not only inquired about the survivor’s well-being but also extended financial assistance by handing over a cheque of ₹4 lakh to her family. The delegation demanded strict action from the Gujarat government to ensure the harshest punishment for the accused. Minister Deepika Pandey Singh was accompanied by IG Suman Gupta and Social Welfare Director Kiran Pansi during the visit.
The Incident
The incident occurred in the Jhagadia GIDC area of Bharuch, Gujarat, where a minor girl from Jharkhand was raped. Following the crime, the survivor received initial treatment at Ankleshwar Hospital and was later transferred to Bharuch Civil Hospital and finally to SSG Hospital in Vadodara.After learning about the incident, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren directed Minister Deepika Pandey Singh to lead a team to provide immediate assistance to the survivor and her family. The state government, known for its sensitivity toward migrant Jharkhand residents, ensured prompt support. The local police have already arrested the accused, and further legal proceedings are underway. The Jharkhand government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the victim and her family while ensuring justice in the case.
The state of higher education in India is facing a significant crisis as central universities continue to operate without permanent Vice-Chancellors (VCs), creating a leadership vacuum that severely impacts their governance, academic efficiency, and overall progress…….
Despite the government’s claims of having taken action, these fake universities continue to operate and deceive unsuspecting students
Prof. Gobinda Singh Rajwar
In recent times, India’s education system has been at the forefront of national debates. The issues raised during Parliament sessions have thrown a stark light on the crumbling state of education, especially in higher education. A key moment occurred when Deputy Minister Sukanta Mazumdar addressed the serious issue of teacher vacancies, revealing disconcerting data. As of the latest government report, approximately 35.3% of teaching positions in central institutions, including universities like the IITs and IIMs, remain unfilled. This equates to more than 11,000 faculty positions across these institutions. To make matters worse, many of these vacancies are in critical reserved category positions, with over 50% of senior faculty roles in these categories still vacant.
The statistics underscore a deep structural flaw in the country’s higher education system. Central universities report a vacancy rate of 32.6%, while IITs and IIMs are at 40.3% and 31.5%, respectively. The question that arises is why these positions remain unfilled despite the constant rise in demand for higher education and research in India. Is this merely an oversight, or does it reflect a broader lack of commitment to quality education?
In recent decades, India has seen its higher education system expand rapidly. However, this growth has often outpaced the infrastructure and human resources necessary to support it. As institutions like the IITs and IIMs continue to grow in prestige, their capacity to offer quality education is compromised due to a lack of qualified faculty. The government has now mandated that these vacancies be filled on a mission-mode basis, with monthly monitoring mechanisms in place. But such measures often fail to address the root causes of the issue—poor governance, underinvestment, and a systemic lack of attention to faculty development.
Aurobindo Ghosh once famously said, “Education is the foundation of all human progress and must be given utmost attention by any nation.” However, India’s neglect of its education system over the last decade stands in stark contrast to this ideal. The current administration, despite its aggressive push for nationalistic reforms, seems to have sidelined education in favor of religious and political issues. As a result, the nation risks losing its competitive edge on the global stage in critical sectors such as technology, management, and scientific research.
The Rising Tide of Fake Universities
While the vacancies in Indian universities raise concerns about the quality of education, a far more dangerous issue has been the rise of fake universities operating across the country. As noted by Sukanta Mazumdar, 21 such universities were flagged by the government. Out of these, 12 have already been shut down, but the remaining institutions continue to operate, often under the radar. Shockingly, many of these fake universities are located in the national capital, Delhi, a city that should ideally set an example of educational excellence.
Despite the government’s claims of having taken action, these fake universities continue to operate and deceive unsuspecting students. The UGC (University Grants Commission) website, which should be a critical tool in the regulation of higher education, lists these institutions as legitimate. This is both a failure of governance and an indictment of the current education regulatory framework. In a country where education is increasingly becoming a critical pathway to personal and professional growth, such systemic lapses are deeply concerning.
This rise in fake universities highlights a disturbing trend—India’s education system is being commodified, and many unscrupulous actors are capitalizing on the ignorance and desperation of students and their families. These institutions prey on the lack of awareness among students, offering degrees and courses that have no academic value. This not only jeopardizes the future of countless students but also tarnishes the reputation of India’s entire higher education system.
As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The true function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” It is apparent that this ideal is far from being realized in the current education system, where fake degrees often supersede genuine learning, and the focus is on numbers rather than quality. The unregulated proliferation of such institutions undermines the integrity of the system, leaving students disillusioned and misled.
The question remains: how long will the government continue to ignore this crisis? The education system is the foundation of any nation’s growth and stability, yet we are failing to build that foundation solidly. If the trend of fake institutions continues unchecked, the future of India’s youth and its global standing in education will remain at risk.
Focus on Religious Nationalism and Its Impact on Education
As the vacancies in educational institutions and the rise of fake universities point to a deeper crisis, one cannot help but ask: where has the government’s focus been over the last decade? Under the current regime, the country’s priorities have shifted dramatically. While there has been a surge in focus on issues like religious nationalism, the education system has been largely sidelined. The BJP government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has pushed a narrative centered around “mandir” (temples) and “masjid” (mosques) rather than focusing on empowering institutions of learning.
The government’s agenda has been dominated by issues related to religious identity and nationalistic symbolism. From the Ram Mandir movement to the contentious debates over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC), the administration has largely ignored the pressing needs of the education sector. Education, once the bedrock of nation-building, is now relegated to the backseat.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a visionary in Indian education, once argued that “Educate, Agitate, Organize”—a powerful slogan that emphasized the transformative power of education. Yet, the current policy environment seems to have strayed far from this ideal. In a nation as diverse as India, where the aspirations of millions rest on education, the neglect of this vital sector is unforgivable. The lack of a clear, sustained focus on education—combined with the government’s focus on religious identity—has stunted the growth of India’s intellectual capital.
Moreover, the government’s attempts to centralize control over education through measures like the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 are indicative of an inclination to dictate the ideological direction of education, rather than fostering critical thinking. This has been seen as a tool for reinforcing the dominance of certain ideological groups, rather than ensuring a diverse, inclusive educational environment. By sidelining important academic debates in favor of religious agendas, the government risks the future of India’s youth.
This shift in priorities is evident when we compare the education policies of past leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Madan Mohan Malaviya, who understood the power of education in shaping a free and democratic society. Nehru’s emphasis on building institutions like IITs and IIMs was based on a belief that education should be used to empower the nation, not merely to fuel religious agendas. Malaviya, who envisioned Banaras Hindu University (BHU) as a space of academic excellence and intellectual freedom, championed education as the key to social transformation.
In contrast, today’s government seems to have strayed from these ideals. The result is a generation of students who are more attuned to political slogans than to intellectual engagement. This shift has further eroded the quality of education, as students are encouraged to engage in ideological battles rather than focusing on academic excellence.
The promotion of private universities in India over the past few decades raises important questions about the state’s role in providing quality education and maintaining a robust public education system. While government institutions have traditionally been the backbone of higher education in India, the increasing shift towards private universities reflects a deep structural failure within the public sector. The reality is that many private universities, despite their lofty promises, often fall short in terms of providing high-quality education, yet they charge exorbitant fees. The cost of attending these institutions is comparable to or even exceeds that of foreign universities, with little assurance of job placements or employability. In the current climate, education in India has essentially become a lucrative market—a business rather than a service to the nation’s youth.
One of the primary reasons for this growing reliance on private universities is the government’s inability to fill vacancies in public institutions. With more than 35% of faculty positions unfilled in central universities, IITs, and IIMs, the public sector is increasingly unable to offer students the educational experience they deserve. Instead, students, particularly those from middle and lower-income backgrounds, are forced to turn to private institutions that promise access to world-class infrastructure and teaching—at a cost that often leaves them financially burdened. Ironically, these private universities, despite charging exorbitant fees, fail to provide their students with the real benefits of higher education, such as a guaranteed job or a pathway to growth in the professional world.
The fact that private institutions have become an education market is a reflection of the government’s failure to maintain a system that serves the public good. India’s education system, once grounded in values of knowledge, inquiry, and holistic development, has slowly transformed into a corporate sector where profits often outweigh the quality of education provided. This commercialization of education is alarming, as it undermines the very essence of learning, which has historically been a tool for individual growth and societal betterment. In ancient India, education was deeply intertwined with values, spirituality, and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, not for financial gain.
The Vedas, one of the oldest and most revered scriptures in Indian history, place immense emphasis on knowledge and education as means of attaining wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. The Rigveda states, “Tamaso ma jyotirgamaya”, meaning “Lead me from darkness to light,” underscoring the transformative power of knowledge. The Upanishads also stress the importance of education in the search for truth and the nature of existence. In the Chandogya Upanishad, the teacher Uddalaka instructs his son, “Tat tvam asi,” meaning “Thou art that,” indicating the integral connection between the individual and the ultimate knowledge. In this ancient framework, education was not merely about acquiring degrees or certifications but about cultivating wisdom that could lead to a higher understanding of life and the universe.
In contrast, the modern-day educational market in India has moved far away from these philosophical principles. The state’s failure to support public education has created an environment where private universities can thrive unchecked, often operating with little regard for quality. As the government continues to neglect the public sector, students are left with no choice but to pay hefty fees for a questionable return on investment. This reflects not just a failure in policy but also a deep disconnection from the core values of education that were once so central to Indian civilization.
The situation is symptomatic of a larger trend where education, instead of being viewed as a public service, has become commodified. This raises fundamental questions about the role of the government in ensuring equal access to quality education for all its citizens, irrespective of their financial background. The state’s inability to prioritize and invest in public institutions has led to a situation where private universities are now seen as the only alternative. This is a dangerous trend, one that undermines the very idea of education as a tool for empowerment, and it is a legacy that must be addressed before it becomes too ingrained in India’s educational framework.
In conclusion, the state of education in India over the last decade reflects a systemic decline exacerbated by political priorities that place more emphasis on religious and nationalistic concerns than on academic and intellectual growth. The figures—whether it’s the alarming vacancy rates in higher education institutions or the proliferation of fake universities—tell a stark story of negligence. The failure to address these issues has long-term consequences not just for India’s education system, but for its future as a knowledge-driven economy.
As India stands at the crossroads of economic transformation, education remains the key to unlocking the potential of its vast human resources. The question remains: will the government refocus on building a strong, equitable, and quality education system, or will the country’s youth continue to be left behind as political and religious agendas dominate the discourse? Until such questions are answered, India’s educational future will remain uncertain.
Andhra Pradesh Christ New Testament Deemed University, #32-32-2003, 7th Lane, Kakumanuvarithoto, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh-522002 and another address of Christ New Testament Deemed University, Fit No. 301, Grace Villa Apts., 7/5, Srinagar, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh-522002 Andhra Pradesh Bible Open University of India, H.No. 49-35-26, N.G.O’s Colony, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh-530016
Delhi All India Institute of Public & Physical Health Sciences (AIIPHS) State Government University, Office Kh. No. 608-609, 1st Floor, Sant Kripal Singh Public Trust Building, Near BDO Office, Alipur, Delhi-110036 Delhi Commercial University Ltd., Daryaganj, Delhi. Delhi United Nations University, Delhi Vocational University, Delhi ADR-Centric Juridical University, ADR House, 8J, Gopala Tower, 25 Rajendra Place, New Delhi – 110 008 Indian Institute of Science and Engineering, New Delhi Viswakarma Open University for Self-Employment, Rozgar Sewasadan, 672, Sanjay Enclave, Opp. GTK Depot, Delhi-110033 Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya (Spiritual University), 351-352, Phase-I, Block-A, Vijay Vihar, Rithala, Rohini, Delhi-110085
Karnataka Badaganvi Sarkar World Open University Education Society, Gokak, Belgaum, Karnataka
Kerala St. John’s University, Kishanattam, Kerala International Islamic University of Prophetic Medicine (IIUPM), Kunnamangalam Kozhikode, Kerala-673571
Maharashtra Raja Arabic University, Nagpur, Maharashtra
Puducherry Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education, No. 186, Thilaspet, Vazhuthavoor Road, Puducherry-605009
West Bengal Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine, Kolkatta. Institute of Alternative Medicine and Research,8-A, Diamond Harbour Road, Builtech inn, 2nd Floor, Thakurpurkur, Kolkatta – 700063
(The author is a distinguished biodiversity researcher, a Linnean Society fellow, a global advocate for the Himalayas, and a visiting professor at several prestigious universities both in India and abroad.)
Assets Distributed Among Beneficiaries at Block Office
Sanjay Pandey, Palamu: State Finance, Commercial Tax, Planning & Development, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Radhakrishna Kishor laid the foundation stone for the Dhumkudia Bhawan construction project in Jharinimiya village, under Meral Panchayat of Patan block. Addressing the gathering, he stated that Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s vision is to preserve tribal culture. The Dhumkudia Bhawan will serve as a center for preserving and showcasing the traditions and customs of the tribal community. He added that discussions and ceremonies related to tribal life have historically been conducted in Dhumkudia, and maintaining this tradition is everyone’s responsibility. Minister Kishor also assured that the unpaved road leading to the site will soon be converted into a paved road. Later, at Naudiha Panchayat Secretariat, Minister Kishor laid the foundation stone for the Sub-Health Center Building, emphasizing that this center will strengthen healthcare facilities in the surrounding villages. At the Patan Block Office premises, Minister Kishor participated in the inauguration and foundation stone-laying ceremony for multiple projects. He inaugurated an open gym and an energy pillar, while also laying the foundation stones for a cycle stand-cum-parking shed and Birsa Harit Gram Yojana-based mango orchards. Additionally, he participated in a tree plantation drive under the Linear Plantation Scheme. During the program, assets were distributed to beneficiaries: Approval letters were issued under the Abua Awas Yojana. ₹1.26 crore loans were distributed to 42 self-help groups under the Cash Credit Linkage scheme. Soil Health Cards were distributed to over 20 beneficiaries. Bicycles were distributed among schoolgirls to support their education. The event began with a lamp-lighting ceremony led by the Minister, Deputy Development Commissioner, and other public representatives. The Minister was warmly welcomed by the public along the route from Patan Mor to the Block Office. The stage was anchored by VLW Alok Kumar Pandey. On-the-Spot Approval for Transformer Installation During the program, Block Development Officer (BDO) requested the installation of a 200 KVA transformer in the office premises to facilitate skill development and empower local women through sewing machine-based employment. Responding immediately, Minister Kishor called the department’s GM on the spot and directed the installation of the transformer within 15 days. Jharkhand CM Maiyan Samman Yojana: No Economic Burden on the Government Minister reiterated that the Jharkhand CM Maiyan Samman Yojana does not impose any economic burden on the state. He affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring timely financial assistance to all mothers and sisters. Grievance Boxes to Address Block and Circle-Level Complaints: To enhance transparency and address issues efficiently, Minister Kishor announced the installation of two grievance boxes at the block office: One for block-related complaints. Another for circle-related issues. He urged the public to actively use these boxes, adding that the received grievances will be regularly reviewed and resolved. The event witnessed the presence of Deputy Development Commissioner Shabbir Ahmed, Patan BDO-CO, Zila Parishad members, Panchayat leaders, former Mukhiya, social workers, public representatives, and a large number of residents.
Special Focus on Emergency Ward Cleanliness and SOP for “Brought Dead” Cases
EW Correspondent, Ranchi: A coordination meeting was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri at the administrative building auditorium of Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS). The meeting included discussions with district administration officials, RIMS Superintendent, administrative officers, and heads of various departments. The primary agenda of the meeting was to ensure that patients visiting RIMS receive proper treatment without any hurdles. Deputy Commissioner Bhajantri emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness in the Trauma Center and Emergency Ward at regular intervals and instructed that cleaning be carried out every few hours. To address the bed availability issue, it was decided that a live display board will be installed, enabling the attendants of patients to check the real-time availability of beds. The Deputy Commissioner also directed that essential medicines and surgical items should always remain in stock to avoid inconvenience. A proposal was made to verify the attendance of doctors, nurses, and other staff in OPD through magistrates as per the duty roster. This step will ensure punctuality and smooth functioning of OPD services, ultimately benefiting the patients. Deputy Commissioner Bhajantri stressed that doctors must attend OPD sessions on time, ensuring timely consultation and reducing patient waiting time. SOP for Brought Dead Cases Addressing another significant matter, the Deputy Commissioner instructed the RIMS administration to draft a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for cases where patients are declared “brought dead” in the emergency ward. The SOP will aim to streamline the process and provide support to the relatives of deceased patients. Discussions were also held regarding the appointment of hospital managers to enhance administrative efficiency at RIMS. The Deputy Commissioner reviewed shortcomings observed during a recent surprise inspection of the Emergency/Trauma Center and Blood Bank. He provided necessary directions to address these issues promptly. Additionally, instructions were given to the concerned officials to ensure that the approach roads to the Emergency and Trauma Center remain encroachment-free, allowing smooth and unhindered access for patients. The meeting highlighted a comprehensive plan to improve medical services, ensuring better treatment facilities and smoother administrative processes for patients and their families at RIMS.
