Category: Education

  • SDM Udyogam 2026’ Job Fair Scheduled for April 6–7

    Ujire, Apr 2: A two-day mega job fair titled ‘SDM Udyogam – 2026’ will be held on April 6 and 7 under the aegis of the SDM Educational Society. The event is being jointly organised by SDM College (Autonomous), SDM Engineering College, and SDM Polytechnic College, said SDM College Principal Prof. Vishwanath P.

    Addressing a press conference at SDM College here on Wednesday, he stated that the job fair will be inaugurated at 9.30 am on April 6 by Dr. Satishchandra S., Secretary of the SDM Educational Society. More than 100 companies have already registered to participate in the fair, aiming to fill over 4,000 vacancies. Registration for job seekers is free of cost, he added.

    Wide Range of Sectors

    Companies from diverse sectors including IT and software development, pharmaceuticals, banking and finance, IT and IT-enabled services (ITES), sales and marketing, retail, education, tourism and hospitality, accounting and tax consultancy, manufacturing, automobile, telecom and media, construction and infrastructure, and financial consultancy will take part, offering a wide range of opportunities to candidates.

    Eligibility and Participation

    Candidates with qualifications ranging from PUC to postgraduate degrees—including BA, BBA, BCom, BCA, BSc, B.Voc, ITI, Diploma, Engineering, BTech, BEd, MA, MCJ, MSW, MCom, MCA, MSc, MBA, and GNM Nursing—are eligible to participate. Final-year students from various educational institutions across Belthangady taluk are also welcome to attend.

    A Google Form link has been created for registration, through which over 2,000 job aspirants have already enrolled. The entire recruitment process, including registration and selection, will be paperless and conducted online. A dedicated software system has been developed to enable candidates to receive interview results directly on their mobile phones, Prof. Vishwanath said.

    Polytechnic Principal Santosh, Engineering College In-charge Principal Girish Kumar, faculty members Dr. Subrahmanya Tolpadiththaya, Amaresh Hebbar, Dr. Nagaraj Poojary, Shailesh Kumar, Sunil Hegde, and others were present at press conference.

     

  • CBSE to Introduce Computational Thinking and AI for Classes 3–8 from 2026–27

    New Delhi, Apr 2: In a landmark move to prepare students for a technology-driven future, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a new curriculum on Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students in Classes 3 to 8, starting from the 2026–27 academic year.

    The initiative aims to equip young learners with critical problem-solving skills, logical reasoning, and a foundational understanding of AI concepts. By introducing these subjects early, the board hopes to nurture creativity, analytical thinking, and digital literacy among students.

    The curriculum will include age-appropriate modules that help children understand how computers solve problems, interpret data, and make decisions. Teachers will receive comprehensive training and support materials to ensure these concepts are delivered effectively in classrooms.

    Education officials believe that integrating computational thinking and AI into school education will not only make students comfortable with digital tools but also foster curiosity and innovation. This step is part of a broader effort to modernize education in India, emphasizing critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and skills for the 21st century.

    With this rollout, students across India will gain early exposure to future-ready skills, enabling them to navigate an increasingly digital world with confidence and creativity.

  • IIT Mandi Marks 17th Foundation Day, Highlighting Innovation and Nation-Building

    Mandi, Mar 31: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi, one of India’s leading IITs, celebrated its 17th Foundation Day by bringing together eminent leaders from industry, academia, and global research, who highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence, robotics, and emerging technologies in shaping India’s future growth.

    IIT Mandi Marks 17th Foundation Day, Highlighting Innovation and Nation-Building

     IIT Mandi is at the forefront of innovation across multiple disciplines and has gained international recognition for its cutting-edge research in AI, robotics, quantum technology, advanced materials, and interdisciplinary engineering, fully aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Over the years, the Institute has evolved into a research-intensive university that fosters experiential learning, drives innovation, and nurtures entrepreneurship, while steadfastly upholding its motto, ‘Scaling the Heights.

    The event was graced by various dignitaries, including Padma Bhushan awardee Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co-Founder of Infosys Ltd., who attended as the Chief Guest, and Prof. Oussama Khatib, Director of Stanford Robotics Lab, USA, as the Distinguished Guest. Other dignitaries present were Prof. Timothy Gonsalves, Founding Director of IIT Mandi; Prof. Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi, Vice Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University; and Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, Vice Chancellor of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University. 

    17th Foundation Day Celebrations at IIT Mandi

    In his remarks, Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT Mandi, stated,

     “As IIT Mandi celebrates its 17th Foundation Day, it is a moment to reflect not only on the Institute’s evolution but also on the essence of ‘Shodasha’ – representing eternal youthfulness, creativity, and growth. Over the years, IIT Mandi has emerged as a dynamic hub for experiential learning and cutting-edge research in Quantum Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Semiconductor Systems, and Interdisciplinary Engineering, supported by over ₹120 crore in research grants. Through a steadfast focus on innovation, translation, and entrepreneurship, we are preparing ‘Future-ready Leaders’ who will drive technological self-reliance and contribute meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.”

    Delivering the keynote address, Chief Guest Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co-Founder of Infosys Ltd., stated,

    ” We’re at the edge of the intelligence revolution, and the next 25–30 years present the greatest opportunity for India to lead globally in innovation and technology. Institutions like IIT Mandi will be central to this journey, nurturing talent, conducting translational research, and fostering an entrepreneurial culture. I firmly believe the young people here can build a ‘product nation’ and develop globally competitive, accessible, sustainable technologies. IIT Mandi will lay the foundation for transformative change and solutions to global challenges as India moves toward Viksit Bharat 2047.”

    Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Oussama Khatib, Director, Stanford Robotics Lab, USA, remarked,

    “IIT Mandi exemplifies excellence in education combined with an inspiring natural environment. The campus valley offers immense potential to become a world-renowned innovation hub akin to Silicon Valley. The Institute’s emphasis on research, entrepreneurship, and real-world applications will shape future generations of innovative engineers and entrepreneurs. Its blend of visionary thinking, natural beauty, and international collaboration will ensure IIT Mandi remains a leader in advanced research, particularly in robotics.”

    Faculties and Students received awards for their meritorious contributions across research, academics and sports.

    Research Achievements & Key Milestones

    • State-of-the-art research facilities in AI, Robotics, Quantum Technology, and Advanced Materials 

    • ₹120 crore in research funding for 177 projects over the last 3 years 

    • Execution of over 200 consultancy projects totalling ₹17 Crores 

    • Initiation of Interdisciplinary Research Centres and Global Collaborations 

    • Support for Innovation and Entrepreneurship through Fellowships and Incubation Programs 

    Felicitation & Celebrations

    During the ceremony, IIT Mandi honoured the achievements of students, faculty, and staff for their contributions to academics, research, and innovation. The day also highlighted the Institute’s growing importance in positioning India as a global leader in technology, research, and higher education. IIT Mandi remains committed to advancing national priorities through Deep Tech and Technology-Based Development.

  • Governor Stresses Value-Based Education for a Peaceful Society

    Bhubaneswar, March 29: Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Sunday emphasized the crucial role of value-based education in shaping a peaceful and progressive society, urging teachers to focus on character development alongside academic knowledge.

    Addressing the inauguration of the value education programme for teachers at the Ramakrishna Mission’s Vivekananda Hall, the governor quoted Swami Vivekananda, saying that education is not merely the accumulation of information but the manifestation of inner perfection, strength, and character.

    He lauded the Ramakrishna Mission for its long-standing contributions to education, social service, and spiritual growth. “Inspired by the ideals of Ramakrishna Paramahansa and Swami Vivekananda, the mission has consistently promoted a balanced system of education that nurtures intellectual, moral, and spiritual development,” he added.

    Highlighting India’s rich civilisational heritage, Governor Kambhampati noted that traditional education emphasized values such as truth, righteousness, peace, love, and non-violence. “These are not just ideals but principles to be practiced in daily life,” he remarked.

    Referring to today’s global challenges marked by conflicts and instability, he stressed the importance of fostering understanding, tolerance, and dialogue. The governor concluded by underlining the pivotal role teachers play in shaping students into ethical, responsible, and socially conscious citizens.

  • 785 students graduate with nine winning gold medals at the 51st Convocation of IIMB

    PhD scholar receives award for excellence in research

    785 students graduate with nine winning gold medals at the 51st Convocation of IIMB

     

    Mar 28, Bengaluru: “Congratulations to the Class of 2026 at the 51st Convocation of IIM Bangalore. As you enter a rapidly evolving business environment, remember that lasting success is built through consistent choices, not just moments of acceleration. The real test of leadership lies in balancing short-term performance with long-term value creation. It is possible to have it all, but not always at the same time – prioritization and resilience act as the key. I wish you the wisdom to play the long game and create meaningful, enduring impact”, said Chief Guest Ms Vibha Padalkar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of HDFC Life, during her special address at IIM Bangalore’s Convocation ceremony, this evening. 

    Ms Padalkar explained the graduating students that life should go beyond the fast pace of the sprint to make way for a more resilient and enduring marathon. She explained that institutions and careers are not built in sprints but through a process of evolution of a long distance race, with doses of energy, ambition, confidence and courage, and that leadership was about integrating multiple lenses. She also emphasized on the importance of precision meeting persuasion, trust built over years and slowing down to accelerate, to have sustainable careers. 

    Ms Padalkar also shared that three key decisions proved to be the turning points in her own life – choosing finance as her career, returning to India to build a life in the financial capital Mumbai, and choosing the life partner that she did. 

    Ms Vibha Padalkar advised the students that the ability to anticipate, discipline to pause and wisdom to choose deliberately, will stand them in good stead in the long run. “IIMB has honed your decision making skills. So, as you enter a new phase of your lives, remember that you need to run fast when it matters, slow down when it counts and stay in the long race.”

    Indian Institute of Management Bangalore hosted its 51st Convocation on 27th March 2026. A total of 785 students from various programmes graduated, this evening. Degrees were awarded to the students of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme and the MBA programmes – the Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management (PGPEM), Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP), Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGPBA) and Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP). Students of the Post Graduate Programme in Public Policy and Management (PGPPM) received the Master of Management Studies (Public Policy) degree. One PhD scholar received the award for excellence in research, while gold medals were awarded for Best All Round Performance, First Rank and Second Rank.

    The students graduated from the prestigious institution this year in the presence of the Chief Guest, Board Members, Director-in-charge, Deans, faculty, alumni and staff of the Institute, alongside proud smiles and loud cheers from their families.

    Gold medallists and PhD award winner: This year, a total of nine students have won gold medals. Moreover, a PhD scholar received the award for excellence in research.

    In the Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) 2024-2026,Manasi Anju Mertia is the First Rank Holder, whileDhvit Jayen Mehtais the Second Rank Holder. 

    Mayur Dattatray Khule is the Gold Medallist for Best All Round Performance for Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) and Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGPBA) 2024-2026 combined.

    For the Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGPBA) 2024-2026, Bharat Mundra is the First Rank Holder.

    In Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) 2025-2026, Aysha Shaba PP is the First Rank Holder andRajasilpi SP is the Best All Round Performer.  

    In Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management (PGPEM) 2024-2026,Lakshmi R is the First Rank Holder, while Biswaranjan Mishra is the Best All Round Performer.

    In the Post Graduate Programme in Public Policy and Management (PGPPM), Anirudh has won the gold medal for Best Academic Performance.

    The Institute Research Award 2026 was won by Divya Dwivedi, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) student of the Information Systems area of the graduating batch. The award seeks to inspire the school’s Doctoral students to achieve greater heights in terms of research quality and productivity.  

    Address by Prof. Malavika R Harita, Member, IIMB Board of Governors

    The day’s events also included an inspiring address by Prof. Malavika R. Harita, Founder & CEO, Brand Circle, and Member, IIMB Board of Governors. She made mention of IIMB’s new Centres such as the Centre for Digital Public Goods as well as the Tony James Centre for Private Equity and Venture Capital, the newly set up IIMB Development Foundation – the Institute’s fundraising and development arm, and the Institute’s collaborations with leading national and global organizations which play a significant role in enhancing the Institute’s reputation. She also highlighted IIMB’s achievements in terms of placements and the Institute’s position in prestigious national as well as global rankings.

    “Be focussed on gaining knowledge, stay authentic, relevant and original, and create the impact you want to”, she advised the budding managers and entrepreneurs.”

    Director’s address

    Prof. U Dinesh Kumar, Director-in-charge, IIM Bangalore, highlighted some of the achievements of the Institute as well as of faculty, students and alumni, and shared details on IIMB’s programmes, centres, events, digital learning initiatives, rankings, placements, entrepreneurship, and more. 

    “With a vision to elevate undergraduate education in India with the same academic rigour that defines our postgraduate offerings, we introduced two undergraduate offerings: BSc Honors in Economics, and BSc Honors in Data Science.”

    While sharing his message, Prof. Dinesh Kumar commended the Institute for its initiatives on sustainability, inclusivity as well as nation building, apart from academics and research. “The Office of Diversity and Inclusion convened important conversations on accessibility and universal design, and student-led efforts play an important role in our outreach.”

    “Sustainability remains our key priority. We released our Sustainability Report on World Environment Day and introduced a new core course on Responsible Business and Sustainability. These efforts were accompanied by practical steps toward greener campus operations, including the introduction of an EV fleet on campus, donated by the PGP 1998 batch. IIM Bangalore won the Award for Excellence in Biodiversity Management and the Award for Excellence in Social Welfare and Community Services, at the ELCITA Sustainability Awards 2025.”

    He also congratulated IIMB’s incubation centre, NSRCEL, on completing 25 years of supporting entrepreneurs in November last year. 

    Prof. Dinesh Kumar also shared three Zen stories to emphasize on the importance of mindfulness to the graduating students. “The destination is not so important, but the journey is, and the journey has to be full of happiness. Be compassionate, which again is necessary to make life happier. Also, make integrity your life motto. These three elements will go a long may in making your lives happier.”

    “Consider IIMB to be your home – come back, share your life stories and be an inspiration to the entire country.”

    As the graduating students get a step closer to their dreams – with new beginnings, hopes and possibilities in the horizon – the campus today was witness to moments full of emotional farewells, group photos, selfies and other celebrations.

  • GITAM Pathway Scholarship Examination to Offer 786 Students with Scholarships Worth Up to INR 30 Crore

    ~ The recipients will get up to 100% fee waiver, including food and accommodation ~

    ~ The Examination Witnessed a total of 7,795 Students ~

    India: Reinforcing its commitment to equitable access to quality higher education, GITAM (Deemed to be University) has announced that 786 students will be awarded scholarships worth up to INR 30 crore, including up to 100% fee waiver covering tuition, food, and accommodation, through its flagship Pathway Scholarship Programme. The announcement follows the successful conduct of the GITAM Pathway Scholarship Examination, which attracted 7,795 students from government-run Tribal Welfare and Social Welfare institutions across Andhra Pradesh.

    Of the total applicants, 4,527 students appeared from 59 centres serving Tribal Welfare institutions, while 3,268 students participated from 90 centres serving Social Welfare institutions, reflecting strong representation from underserved communities across districts.

    The selected 786 students will gain admission into 61 undergraduate programmes across GITAM’s campuses in Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, marking a significant step in enabling inclusive academic mobility.

    The Pathway programme is fully funded by GITAM, with scholarships awarded solely on merit based on performance in the GITAM Admission Test (GAT). Depending on their scores, students are eligible for up to 100% financial support, including tuition, residential facilities, and meals, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede academic aspirations.

    Highlighting the larger vision behind the initiative, Sribharat Mathukumilli, President, GITAM, said, “India’s place in the world will depend on how widely access to quality higher education expands without any dilution in standards. Too many capable students remain outside the reach of strong institutions at the point of entry. GITAM addresses this by recognising merit early and nurturing it throughout the educational journey. Pathway reflects this direction, where financial capacity does not stand between talent and quality education.”

    Since its inception, the Pathway programme has witnessed exponential growth, expanding from 18 students in 2024 with INR 49.7 lakh in scholarships to 59 students in 2025 with INR 1.45 crore, and now scaling to 786 students in 2026 with up to INR 30 crore in scholarship support, a more than 43-fold increase in intake within two years.

    The programme operates as a merit-based initiative, independent of statutory reservation frameworks, with continued scholarship support linked to academic performance.

    The Pathway initiative is part of GITAM’s broader commitment to student support. Between 2021 and 2025, the university awarded INR 115.97 crore in scholarships to 10,573 students, accounting for 26% of total admissions during this period. In 2025 alone, INR 47.93 crore was awarded to 3,566 students, representing 42% of the admitted cohort.

    In addition to merit-based scholarships, GITAM offers need-based financial assistance, sports scholarships for students with recognised achievements, and special provisions for families of personnel from the Indian Navy, CRPF, and Indian Air Force, further strengthening its inclusive education framework.

    Through the Pathway programme, GITAM continues to create structured, merit-driven access to higher education for students from government institutions, ensuring that aspiration, not circumstance, defines opportunity.

  • Inviting Young Minds: Pravesh Utsav & Khadichuan to Be Held on April 2

    A new chapter in the educational journey of young children is set to begin on April 2 with the celebration of Pravesh Utsav and Khadichuan, organized in line with the National Education Policy.

    ଜାତୀୟ ଶିକ୍ଷା ନୀତି ଅନୁଯାୟୀ ଆସନ୍ତା ଏପ୍ରିଲ ୨ ତାରିଖରେ ଆୟୋଜିତ ହେବାକୁ ଯାଉଥିବା ‘ପ୍ରବେଶ ଉତ୍ସବ ଓ ଖଡ଼ିଛୁଆଁ’ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ଆମ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ଶୈକ୍ଷିକ ଭବିଷ୍ୟତର ଏକ ନୂତନ ଅଧ୍ୟାୟ ଆରମ୍ଭ ହେବାକୁ ଯାଉଛି। ଶିଶୁ ବାଟିକା ଓ ପ୍ରଥମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀରେ ନାମ ଲେଖାଇବାକୁ ଥିବା ଯୋଗ୍ୟ କୁନି କୁନି ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ମାନ୍ୟବର… pic.twitter.com/ZWMTRg3z0Y

    — CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) March 24, 2026

    This special initiative aims to warmly welcome eligible children enrolling in Shishu Vatika (pre-primary) and Class 1, marking their first step into formal education. The program reflects a strong commitment to nurturing early childhood learning and building a solid academic foundation.

    In a heartfelt gesture, invitation letters from the Hon’ble Chief Minister are being personally delivered to parents by government officials and public representatives. This outreach highlights the importance of community participation in ensuring that every child has access to quality education.

    The event is not just a ceremonial beginning but a meaningful effort to inspire families and encourage enrollment at the foundational level. It emphasizes the collective responsibility of society in shaping an educated and empowered younger generation.

    Citizens are encouraged to actively participate in this noble initiative and contribute to creating a bright educational future for children. By doing so, they play a vital role in building a progressive and prosperous Odisha.

  • Digital Libraries: Transforming Access to Knowledge in the Modern Era

    Libraries are undergoing a major transformation in the digital age, evolving from traditional book storage spaces into dynamic, technology-driven knowledge hubs. Digital libraries are now playing a key role in reshaping how information is accessed, shared, and preserved across education, research, and public learning systems.

    Digital Libraries: Transforming Access to Knowledge in the Modern Era

    Pic Credit: Pexel

    A digital library is a collection of information resources—such as e-books, journals, research papers, audio-visual content, and archives—stored in electronic form and made accessible through computers and mobile devices. The primary aim is to make knowledge available anytime and anywhere, removing the limitations of physical location and opening access to a wider audience.

    Experts say the objectives of digital libraries go beyond convenience. They are designed to preserve rare documents, improve information retrieval through advanced search systems, and support education and research by providing instant access to reliable academic content. They also help reduce costs associated with printing, storage, and physical maintenance of books.

    In recent years, digital libraries have gained significant importance, especially with the expansion of online education and remote learning. Educational institutions, universities, and government initiatives have increasingly adopted digital platforms to ensure students and researchers can access updated learning materials without barriers.

    In India, initiatives such as the National Digital Library of India have made millions of academic resources available to students across the country. Similarly, universities and public library systems are integrating digital catalogues and e-learning tools to enhance accessibility and improve learning outcomes.

    Globally, institutions like the World Digital Library and academic databases such as JSTOR have expanded access to historical documents, research papers, and scholarly publications, supporting global knowledge exchange.

    Digital libraries also play a crucial role in bridging the information gap between urban and rural learners. With the help of internet connectivity and mobile technology, students in remote areas can now access the same educational resources as those in major cities.

    The rise of mobile applications such as Kindle has further simplified access to digital books and reading materials, making learning more flexible and personalized.

    However, experts also point out challenges such as the digital divide, limited internet access in rural areas, and the need for digital literacy training. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure equal and effective use of digital library systems.

    Overall, digital libraries represent a major step forward in modern education systems. By combining technology with knowledge sharing, they are helping build a more accessible, efficient, and inclusive learning environment for the future.

  • PM-Vidyalaxmi Emerges as a Key Gateway for Education Loans

    The Government of India’s PM-Vidyalaxmi Scheme has completed one year since its launch, emerging as a significant platform for students seeking financial support for higher education. The scheme has witnessed strong demand, with a large number of applications received from across the country and an approval rate of around 50 percent, indicating steady implementation.

    Designed as a single-window digital portal, PM-Vidyalaxmi has simplified the education loan process by allowing students to apply to multiple banks through one platform. This has reduced delays, improved transparency, and made it easier for applicants to track their loan status without navigating complex procedures.

    A key feature of the scheme is its focus on accessibility. By offering collateral-free loan options and reducing traditional barriers, it has opened up opportunities for students from middle-class and economically weaker backgrounds. The scheme supports those admitted to recognized institutions, ensuring that financial assistance is directed toward quality higher education.

    In its first year, PM-Vidyalaxmi has contributed to strengthening a more inclusive and structured education financing system in India. With growing awareness and participation, it is expected to play an important role in helping students pursue their academic goals without being constrained by financial limitations.

  • Centre Launches Nationwide Drive via NIOS to Bring Dropout Children Back to School

    New Delhi, March 21 (BNP): The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) under the Ministry of Education has announced a nationwide initiative to strengthen the open schooling framework through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), with the aim of achieving 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2030.

    The move aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020 and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, as articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The initiative focuses on identifying and enrolling out-of-school and dropout children across the country.

    According to official data, nearly 2 crore children in the 14–18 age group are currently out of school, while around 11 per cent of children in Classes 3 to 8 remain unenrolled. Additionally, over 50 lakh students fail board examinations annually, highlighting the need for flexible and inclusive education pathways.

    Officials said open schooling provides a practical alternative for students unable to attend regular schools due to socio-economic or geographical constraints. NIOS, the world’s largest open schooling board, offers flexible admission, multiple opportunities to clear exams, on-demand examinations, and vocational courses aligned with employability.

    Centre Launches Nationwide Drive via NIOS to Bring Dropout Children Back to School

     

    To strengthen outreach, the Ministry will launch the “NIOS Mitra” programme, a technology-enabled initiative aimed at identifying, counselling, and enrolling out-of-school children, particularly from marginalised, tribal, migrant, and economically weaker sections. Trained facilitators will support students through enrolment and academic guidance, ensuring last-mile connectivity and measurable outcomes.

    The Ministry also plans to expand infrastructure by establishing at least one NIOS Study and Examination Centre in every block. Existing institutions such as PM SHRI schools, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan schools, and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti institutions will be leveraged to support this effort.

    Officials said the initiative will be implemented in coordination with States and Union Territories, using district-level survey data to identify dropout children and ensure targeted interventions.

    The government emphasised that these measures aim to provide inclusive, flexible, and quality education while advancing universal school participation and reducing dropout rates nationwide.