NEWS TODAY 7.12.2024

 

NEP: Varsities get 3 months to enable credit transfers

NEP: Varsities get 3 months to enable credit transfers 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 07.12.2024

Ahmedabad : It has been four years since the National Education Policy 2020 was approved by the Union cabinet, yet state universities have failed to completely implement it. The policy’s core focus on student credit transfer remains largely unrealized, particularly affecting students moving between universities within the state. 

At a recent meeting, state education department officials and vice chancellors of the state’s public universities addressed crucial aspects, including credit transfer mechanisms, multiple entry-exit options and swift policy implementation. The department issued directives to develop a comprehensive roadmap within three months. This new education policy, introduced after a 34-year gap, stresses key aspects such as opportunities, accountability, inclusive education and excellence. Despite its launch, implementation issues persist across various public universities. During the meeting, officials stressed immediate policy execution, with vice chancellors being asked to achieve 50% gross enrolment ratio in higher education by 2035. 

The department will also hold quarterly review meetings to monitor progress in the implementation of NEP 2020. It also ordered VCs to set up objectives and submit detailed implementation strategies at the next quarterly meeting. The policy’s provisions for multiple entry-exit points remain largely theoretical, with most universities failing to establish practical systems. Other issues include insufficient internship arrangements. Universities were told to adopt modern technologies, including AI, and move away from traditional practices. Sources said that govt data reveals that while 8 lakh Indian students pursue education abroad annually, India attracts only 45,000 international students. The policy addresses this imbalance by inviting the world’s top 100 universities to set up campuses in India. 

The VCs of state universities were also instructed to create and upload Academic Credit Bank data to DigiLocker. Currently, only a few institutions like GTU and Gujarat University have

completed this requirement. Additionally, plans were discussed to integrate all universities into a unified platform like the Gujarat Common Admission Service (GCAS).

Passengers create ruckus on board Shanti Express over missing belongings

Passengers create ruckus on board Shanti Express over missing belongings 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK  07.12.2024

Ahmedabad : Passengers in the First AC coach of the Shanti Express, travelling from Indore to Ahmedabad, were shocked when women travellers discovered that their belongings were missing. A commotion ensued when railway protection force officials declined to record complaints whilst the train was in motion, insisting passengers must alight at a station to do so. Officials were unwilling to stop the train for complaint registration.

The incident occurred around 3.30am, between Nagda and Ujjain, when a woman passenger noticed her purse and bag were missing. She alerted other passengers. Himangini Kalantri, another passenger of the AC coach, stated, “I heard noise outside my compartment. A woman passenger was looking for her stuff, her bag, and purse, as everything went missing. As other passengers started gathering near her seat, an attendant came and informed us that he found a bag in the washroom.” Kalantri added, “Usually, when I travel alone, I prefer the First AC coach as it is safe.” After recovering the items, passengers attempted to report the incident on the railway complaint number. However, the responding officers were uncooperative. The ticket checker and officials instead criticised the passengers for not securing their compartment from inside. 

According to Kalantri, she contacted the railway complaint platform, while the staff insisted on filing complaints at Ahmedabad. But other passengers refused to continue the journey. “I pulled the chain on four oc casions as we wanted action. After 20 minutes of ruckus, a police officer came to register the complaint,” she explained. Additional bags were discovered in the washrooms during the complaint registration process. “We found six bags in different washrooms, which were probably stolen. It is suspected that if it was happening across all coaches, there was a gang active on the train,” Kalantri said.  She expressed concern about single women travellers being targeted and suggested possible staff involvement, either directly or indirectly, in such incidents. 

Ticketless travellers paid ₹8.7cr in fines 

Ahmedabad : The Ahmedabad division of Western Railway collected Rs 13.46 crore between April and Nov in fines from passengers who were caught during a ticket checking drive and were carrying unauthorised luggage. The railway authorities said that to ensure comfortable travel and better services for all legitimate passengers, intensive ticket checking campaigns were conducted. The Ahmedabad division collected over Rs 8.71 crore from more than 94,600 passengers for ticketless travel. Additionally, Rs 4.70 crore in fines were imposed on around 81,500 unauthorized travellers. “Usually, passengers are required to book heavy luggage in the luggage van, but they travel with such heavy luggage in the train, and hence they were also booked,” said a senior railway official. TNN

Now, take your learner’s licence test from home

Now, take your learner’s licence test from home

Himanshu.Kaushik@timesofindia.com 07.12.2024

Ahmedabad : The state transport department has finally decided to facilitate driving tests for learners from the comfort of their homes or offices. Come Jan, candidates, unlike earlier, will not need to visit Regional Transport Offices or authorised centres for the online test. This applies only to those who have an Aadhaar linked to their mobile phone number. The move comes after extensive testing, officials said. 

The current system of going to RTOs, polytechnics or ITIs will continue. Union Govt mandates that the online test should be made compulsory, allowing individuals to take the test from anywhere. Officials stated that biometrics, specifically face recognition, will be conducted using Aadhaar card data. The system will not capture voice and hence answers dictated to the system will not be detected. Officials noted that in 2024, govt brought down the pass limit. Earlier, a candidate was required to answer 11 questions out of 15 correctly. Now, correct answers to nine questions are enough to clear the test. 

According to officials, 19 states have already implemented the system, but Gujarat was testing the system to ensure it was foolproof, following Maharashtra’s model for implementation. The move will reduce the rush at RTOs, polytechnics and ITIs, said senior officials. “Necessary changes were made by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) in Vahan 4.0 and Sarathi 4.0 systems used for vehicle registration and driving licence issuance across the country,” an offici al said. To take the test from home or office, applicants will have to visit ‘https://parivahan.gov.in’. “Before appearing for the test, candidates will have to watch online videos on road safety. Only then can they apply. Those correctly answering 60% of the questions can print a learner’s licence on their own,” the official explained. Those failing can attempt the test again in a similar manner following rules. 

“Those who don’t want to opt for a test through Aadhaar can take the test using the existing procedure,” the official sai

HC acquits doctor convicted for raping woman colleague

HC acquits doctor convicted for raping woman colleague 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 07.12.2024

Chennai : Madras high court has accorded the benefit of doubt and acquitted a practising doctor convicted by a trial court for raping a woman doctor while they were housed at a city hotel during Covid pandemic. The trial court had on Dec 30, 2022 imposed 10-year RI on Dr Vetriselvan and fined him ₹25,000. However, allowing his appeal on Nov 25, Justice Sunder Mohan held there were many infirmities and said: “This court is of the view that the appellant cannot be convicted on the basis of such evidence and that he will be entitled to benefit of doubt.”

The woman-doctor had alleged that on Aug 5, 2021, while she and Dr Vetriselvan were on Covid duty and lodged at a city hotel, he invited her to his room where he raped her. The defence, however, argued that the allegation of rape was an afterthought because though the incident took place on Aug 5, 2021, a complaint to the dean was given on Sept 21 and FIR filed only on Nov 17. In her complaint to the dean, the woman mentioned only sexual harassment and no rape. “She being a doctor, it cannot be said that she did not know the difference between sexual harassment and rape,” argued senior counsel A Ramesh. 

She also did not subject herself to medical examination and told the magistrate she did not wish to precipitate the matter. Citing all this, Justice Sunder Mohan said, “In the complaint, apart from not referring to any alleged act of rape, the victim would state that the incident took place at her accommodation at the hotel, which is contrary to the prosecution case that the incident took place in the appellant’s room.” While a complaint was given to the dean 43 days after the incident, a police complaint was lodged two months after the complaint in which an improved version was made, said the judge.

The judge then set aside the trial court order and directed the authorities to return the fine amount to the appellant.

Remarks against Vadivelu: HC gags actor Singamuthu

Remarks against Vadivelu: HC gags actor Singamuthu 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 07.12.2024

Chennai : Madras high court directed actor Singamuthu to file an affidavit giving an undertaking that he will not make any defamatory or derogatory statements against actor Vadivelu. Justice G Jayachandran passed the interim order on Friday, on a civil suit m oved by Vadivelu seeking ₹5 crore as damages from Singamuthu for making defamatory statements against him on social media. According to Vadivelu, Singamuthu in interviews given on YouTube channels on Jan 16 and Feb 11, made several derogatory and false statements against personal and professional life. On Mar 19, Vadivelu issued legal notices to Singamuthu and the YouTube channels concerned, demanding an apology and withdrawal of his comments. 

Though the channels expressed their apology, Singamuthu sent a reply stating that under the Constitution, free speech is guaranteed to him. Noting that the reply was nothing but adding salt to his wound, Vadivelu said, “for no cause, he is disgraced in the public by defamatory words of Singamuthu.” Vadivelu submitted that he is a well-known artist and that statements of Singamuthu caused mental agony, pain, and m

isery. Unless he is directed to compensate the plaintiff, the defendant will continue making such cheap and unwarranted utterances against the plaintiff.

TN students in a fix over UGC’s new rules for UG/PG

TN students in a fix over UGC’s new rules for UG/PG

Ragu.Raman@timesofindia.com 07.12.2024

Chennai : Class XII students in Tamil Nadu, where there are no entrance exams for UG/PG courses, are unlikely to be able to take advantage of University Grants Commission’s flexibility of joining any UG degree next year. Academics say TN should continue with the present policy of UG admissions based on Class XII board exam marks, fearing the draft UGC (Minimum Standards of Instructions in the Award of UG and PG Degrees) Regulations 2024 released on Thursday may lead to a decline in quality of degrees and create confusion. 

The draft rules allow any Class XII student to pursue any UG degree after clearing anational level or university level entrance test. It also includes multiple entry and exits in degree programmes, accelerated and extended degrees, and twice-a-year admission, among others. UGC has given time until Dec 23 for all stakeholders to give their feedback on its website. The All India Save Education Committee wants the new rules withdrawn. “Higher educational institutions lack infrastructure, classrooms, and teachers. Whatever discipline there is in the higher education system would be shattered. We demand the immediate withdrawal of these new regulations,” said Biswajit Mitra, treasurer. 

Some fear allowing a student to pursue 50% skill-related courses in UG programmes will create graduates without any deep knowledge. “It will also take away the importance of the core subject,” said S Suresh, secretary of the Tamil Nadu Govt Collegiate Teachers’Association. Admission twice a year will create confusion. Others suggest a bridge course along with the entrance test. Madras Christian College principal Paul Wilson said arts group students keen on taking up science course need a foundational course. “An entrance test alone will not be able to fill the learning gap.” Sastra University vicechancellor S Vaidhyasubramaniam said that while draft regulations provide scope for learner flexibility and multidisciplinary options, the idea of allowing two degrees at the

same time will affect learning outcomes. Madras University Teachers Association General Secretary C Murugan said providing multiple exit options may encourage more dropouts rather than reentry. “Flexibility for students as a broad idea is welcome. However, framing the rules requires careful thought.”

Vijay stares down DMK, winks at VCK

Vijay stares down DMK, winks at VCK 

TVK Leader Turns Ambedkar Book Launch Into Political Stage 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 07.12.2024

Chennai : Actor-turned-Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay on Friday turned the launch of a book on B R Ambedkar into a political stage, attacking the BJP govt at Centre and the DMK govt in Tamil Nadu, besides making political overtures to VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan, a DMK ally who was invited but stayed away from the event. Speaking at his first social event after TVK’s debut public meeting in Vikravandi on Oct 28, Vijay accused the Union govt of inaction on the Manipur violence and the state govt of failing to act on the Vengaivayal incident when a water tank used by dalits was contaminated with human waste. “If Ambedkar sees it today, he will hang his head in shame,” Vijay said to loud cheers from TVK cadres who had occupied much of the seats at Chennai Trade Centre. 

“A permanent solution is simple: We need to elect a govt that truly loves the people.” Calling it “anti-people”, Vijay said DMK is unable to ensure even basic social justice and security, but has expressed confidence of winning the 2026 election. 

Thiruma’s heart is here, says Vijay  The people will turn all your alliance calculations, which you have been protecting in many ways for your own selfish interests, into minuses in 2026,” Vijay said. “Thirumavalavan could not participate in the function due to pressure from the DMK alliance. But I can say that his heart is here.” The TVK founder urged Centre to appoint election commission members by consensus and declare April 14, Ambedkar’s birthday, Democratic Rights Day. He released the book ‘Ellarukkumana Thalaivar Ambedkar’ (Everyone’s Leader Ambedkar’), a compilation of articles and interviews, including one from Thirumavalavan. Anand Teltumbde, who is married to Ambedkar’s granddaughter, received the first copy, followed by former Madras high court judge Justice K Chandru. VCK deputy general secretary Aadhav Arjuna is the copublisher of the book brought out by Vikatan Group. Vijay honoured the Vengaivayal villagers who exposed the crime, and dalit teen Chinnadurai and his sister Chandraselvi, who were attacked by students of other castes, besides dalit women panchayat leaders Vidya and Shanth

Airfares shoot through sky for yearend travel

Airfares shoot through sky for yearend travel 

Cheapest Fares Have Inconvenient Flight Timing 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK Mumbai : Airfares for yearend domestic travel from Mumbai are sky-high, but largely only to leisure destinations such as Srinagar, Dehradun, Cochin, Port Blair, and such. Fares for travel in the last week of December on non-stop flights between metros such as those from Mumbai to Delhi, Chennai, and Bengaluru aren't that high this time around, as the cheapest return fares are still priced between ₹9,000 and ₹13,000. The last weekend of the year, comprising Dec 28 (Saturday), and Dec 29, are particularly high in demand for travel out of metros with the most expensive fares. Even on the Mumbai-Kolkata route, which typically sees perennially high fares priced at around ₹10,000 for one-way travel, is at present selling at ₹17,000, which isn’t bad given it is a return fare on non-stop flights. The ones who are hit the most, as usual, are passengers who need to travel for emergency purposes and buy 24-hour advance purchase fares. 

One-way fares on flights from Mumbai to places such as Ranchi (₹20,000), Patna (₹18,000), and Kochi (₹12,000) are high, though not so high to places like Lucknow, Nagpur, and Raipur, which are for now selling for around ₹8,000. Then there are other cities where even 24-hour advance, one-way fares on non-stop flights are not too high, such as Indore (₹5,000), Delhi (₹6,000), Hyderabad (₹4,000), and Bengaluru (₹7,700). The catch, as always, is that the cheapest fares are on flights with inconvenient flight times. The bad boys are all fares to leisure destinations for travel between December 23 and January 1 (see box). Nishant Pitti, CEO and cofounder of EaseMyTrip, says, “Indian travellers are experiencing a complex airfare landscape this year-end season, with significant variations across domestic and  international routes. For domestic routes, the data reveals mixed fare patterns. The Delhi-Goa route, a perennial favourite, shows a modest 2% increase with average fares at ₹9,301. 

He added: “However, some routes like Pune-Benga- luru have seen dramatic fare surges, with prices jumping 80% to ₹10,000-11,000, compelling travellers to reconsider their holiday plans.” “In terms of top destinations, domestic travellers are gravitating towards Goa, Delhi, and Bengaluru, with Goa maintaining its status as the premier year-end celebration destination,” he said.

India doubles medical colleges, MBBS seats rise by 130%, PG seats by 135%

India doubles medical colleges, MBBS seats rise by 130%, PG seats by 135%

The government has reported a 102% rise in medical colleges with a 130% growth in MBBS seats and 135% growth in PG seats since 2014, boosting healthcare infrastructure across India and surpassing WHO standards in the doctor-to-population ratio.

The government has reported a 102% rise in medical colleges with a 130% growth in MBBS seats and 135% growth in PG seats since 2014, boosting healthcare infrastructure across India and surpassing WHO standards in doctor-to-population ratio.

India Today Education Desk

New Delhi,UPDATED: Dec 5, 2024 21:16 IST

In ShortIndia now has 780 medical colleges, up from 387 in 2014

MBBS seats increased by 130%, from 51,348 to 1,18,137

Doctor-to-population ratio improves to 1:811, exceeding WHO standards

The Indian government has reported a remarkable 102% increase in medical colleges and a 130% rise in MBBS seats since 2014, aiming to strengthen healthcare access and meet global standards.

India now has 780 medical colleges compared to 387 in 2014, reflecting a 102% surge, Union Health Minister JP Nadda informed the Lok Sabha last week.

MBBS seats have also soared from 51,348 in 2014 to 1,18,137 in 2024, a 130% jump. This significant growth is attributed to policies encouraging the establishment of new colleges and the expansion of existing ones.

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PG seats have risen by 135%, from 31,185 in 2014 to 73,157 in 2024.

STATES MAKING BIG STRIDES

Several states saw major progress in their medical education infrastructure. Uttar Pradesh now leads with 86 medical colleges, up from 30 in 2014, and has expanded its MBBS seats from 3,749 to 12,425.

Karnataka has 73 colleges, Maharashtra increased its count from 44 to 80, and Rajasthan rose from 10 colleges to 43.

Telangana, which had no medical colleges in 2013-14, now boasts 65 colleges and 9,040 MBBS seats.

Tamil Nadu added 5,835 MBBS seats, reaching a total of 12,050. Smaller states and UTs, such as Nagaland and Mizoram, opened their first medical colleges, while Telangana stands out with exponential growth.

INDIA SURPASSES WHO STANDARDS

India's doctor-to-population ratio is now 1:811, surpassing the World Health Organization’s standard of 1:1000.

This improvement is due to the combined efforts of increased MBBS and postgraduate (PG) seats.

The government’s initiatives include upgrading district hospitals into medical colleges and establishing new AIIMS. Of the 157 approved medical colleges, 131 are functional. Additionally, 19 out of 22 new AIIMS have begun undergraduate courses.

Efforts to tackle faculty shortages include recognising DNB qualifications and raising the retirement age of faculty to 70 years.

Pushpa 2 in race to be among top grossers in US

Pushpa 2 in race to be among top grossers in US 

Spiralling Ticket Prices Touch $70 

Amisha.Rajani@timesofindia.com 06.12.2024

Hyderabad : Amid the tragedy back home, ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ made a killing with its premier shows across the US. According to some local industry sources, the collections of the Allu Arjun-starrer has already crossed the $3.9 million and secured a spot among the top 3 movies with biggest openings. The tremendous rush has, meanwhile, sent ticket prices spiralling with seats being sold for $40 (₹3,400), almost four times the usual price, in many locations, said movie buffs there. Some claimed that tickets were resold too for anywhere between $50 (₹4,250)and $70 ( ₹5,800) — rates never heard of before. “The excitement for the movie has been tough to contain. We have been waiting for this for too long,” said Rajesh Pothula, a tech professional from New Jersey.

 “Even though $40 felt like a stretch, I didn’t want to miss experiencing it on the big screen.” Others, however, were less enthused by the inflated rates. “It’s amazing how much hype the movie has generated, but $70 for a ticket? That is insane,” said Swapna Reddy, a student from California. “I had to skip the premiere because it was way beyond my budget,” she added. Anil Choudhary, an IT consultant working in Dallas had to do the same. “I understand there’s a demand, but charging $40 feels like exploiting fans,” said Anil who waited months for the movie, but gave it a miss after seeing ticket price. 

High ticket prices due to limited shows: Film distributors The film’s distributors in the US claimed that the high prices were because of limited shows. “Pushpa’s massive fan base overseas guarantees packed theatres,” said a distributor in Dallas, Texas. “Premium pricing during premieres isn’t unusual, especially for Indian blockbusters with high production costs and star power.” Despite the hefty prices, the movie drew packed audiences, with several shows running full house. “It was worth every penny,” said Ravi Kumar, who drove over two hours to watch the film in Chicago. “The energy in the theatre was electric. It felt like a festival

Draft UGC rules moot flexibility for students

Draft UGC rules moot flexibility for students 

Manash.Gohain@timesofindia.com 06.12.2024

New Delhi : Students from any stream in Class 12 can now pursue an UG programme of their choice, and UG students can join any PG discipline, provided they clear a nationalor universitylevel entrance exam, such as CUET, according to a draft of new UGC regulations aiming to bring sweeping reforms in India’s higher education.

UGC also proposes to offer biannual admissions, flexibility in minimum credit requirements to obtain a degree, and interdisciplinary learning opportunities through an option of pursuing two programmes simultaneously. The regulations released on Thursday for feedback and suggestions, will be applicable to central, state, private and deemed universities. These aim at dismantling the traditional disciplinary rigidities by allowing students to choose programmes outside their prior streams, provided they meet entrance exam requirements. 

Latest framework encourages recognition of prior learning 

Irrespective of the disciplines taken by a student in level 4/class 12 schooling, a student is eligible for admission in any discipline of UG programme, if the student qualifies the national level or university level entrance examination in the discipline of UG programme,” according to the regulations. UGC chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar said, "The draft UGC regulations, 2024, aim at transforming higher education by promoting flexibility, inclusivity, and adaptability. 

By  removing rigid disciplinary boundaries, students can now explore diverse learning opportunities, ensuring India's education system evolves to global standards." The latest framework also encourages mobility between vocational and general education, and recognition of prior learning — whereby students' professional experiences can translate into academic credits. Under these regulations, higher education institutions (HEIs) are authorised to conduct admissions twice a year — during July/Aug, and Jan/Feb. 

The draft further introduces options for multiple entry and exit points, allowing students to transition between academic levels with interim certifications such as diplomas or degrees, depending on their earned credits. Minimum of 50% of total credits must be earned in the student's chosen core subject to obtain a degree, while the remaining can be accumulated through multidisciplinary or skill-based courses. The reforms also redefine attendance norms, allowing HEIs to tailor minimum requirements based on the programme structure, in align ment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The focus on continuous formative assessment and flexibility in curriculum content reflects a commitment to fostering holistic and multidisciplinary education, the UGC said.

The regulations also have provisions for three or four year duration for UG degrees, with optional extensions under the extended degree programme or acceleration via the accelerated degree programme. For PG a two-year programme is standard, though graduates from four-year UG courses may qualify for a one year master's programme. The UGC has also acknowledged learning acquired through non-formal channels, introducing the recognition of prior learning provision. The regulations advocate for the integration of skilling, internships, and apprenticeships into UG and PG curricula. The credit-based structure aims at seamless transitions and interdisciplinary exploration, with the academic bank of credits serving as a centralised repository for credit storage and transfer across institutions.

HC: Repeated suicide threats cruelty, ground for divorce

HC: Repeated suicide threats cruelty, ground for divorce

06.12.2024

Raipur : “Repeated threats of suicide constitute cruelty,” Chhattisgarh high court has said, while granting divorce to a husband and dismissing the wife’s plea for restitution of conjugal rights, reports Partha Behera. “When such statements (suicide threats) are frequently made, no spouse can live peacefully. In this case, the husband has provided substantial evidence that the wife repeatedly threatened to commit suicide and even attempted to end her life by jumping off the roof. 

Cruelty is defined as behaviour towards a spouse that instils a reasonable apprehension that living with the other party would be harmful or detrimental. The wife’s actions were of such a nature and magnitude that they caused pain, suffering, and mental agony to the husband, amounting to cruelty under matrimonial law,” observed a division bench of Justice Rajani Dubey and Justice Sanjay Kumar Jaiswal, citing various SC judgments. 

The court also directed the husband to pay Rs 5 lakh as permanent alimony to the wife. The couple were married on Dec 28, 2015, but began living separately from Feb 2018. The husband sought divorce, while the wife sought reconciliation, alleging harassment by the husband.

Secretariat staffers hit by flurry of fake int’l calls Fear Their Personal Data Hacked From Govt Records

Secretariat staffers hit by flurry of fake int’l calls Fear Their Personal Data Hacked From Govt Records 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 05.12.2024  BHOPAL 

Bhopal : Employees of the Madhya Pradesh state secretariat are receiving an alarming flurry of fake calls and missed calls from international numbers. The numbers being targeted are those registered with the govt. The employees’ union has complained about this to the general administration department. At least 60 employees have complained through the union, fearing that their database is being hacked or leaked from govt records. The employees union reported that for the past few days, a number of employees in the secretariat are receiving international calls on their mobile numbers. The employees who received the calls were asked to click on different numbers on their mobile keypad if they wanted to continue mobile service. Many employees did not answer the calls for fear of being conned. 

On Nov 19, many secretariat employees received calls simultaneously from international numbers. When the employees searched the numbers on the Internet, they found they were from the US, South Africa, Arab countries, and other countries. This has been ongoing for the past few days. On Friday, retired govt employees and pensioners al so received similar fake calls. The employees union stated that such suspicious international calls are coming only to those numbers registered with the general administration dept. 

Those employees or officials who have more than one number have received calls only on the number they provided to the govt. The officers and employees brought this complaint to the notice of the employees union. Employees fear that the data of officers and employees secured with the govt has been leaked to fraudsters.

The employees union has submitted a memorandum in this regard to the general administration dept and has demanded an inquiry into the matter. The list of numbers on which the calls have been received has also been submitted to the govt. Breaching the data secured with the govt, if it has happened, is a serious matter, the employees stated. Sudhir Nayak, president, Mantralaya Seva Adhikari/ Karmchari Sangh, said it is a serious matter and needs immediate govt attention. At least 60 employees have contacted him and complained in this regard. Similar complaints were received from pensioners too. Govt data and records must be protected from being compromised, he added. 

Secretariat staff attend fire safety drill Bhopal : A fire drill was conducted at the state secretariat recently. The employees were briefed on how to use fire extinguishers and react in case of a fire incident. The drive was conducted under the supervision of Vallabh Bhawan chief security officer, Avinash Sharma. A similar drive was conducted in Satpura Bhawan and Vindhyanchal Bhawan recently. Employees were briefed on how to attend to those injured in the fire until medical assistance arrives. Close to a hundred employees were present when the fire personnel briefed them during the fire drill. Vallabh Bhawan I building caught a major fire on Mar 9. The alertness has been stepped up after the incident.

Miracle survival: 840gm preterm baby thrives after 80 days in NICU

Miracle survival: 840gm preterm baby thrives after 80 days in NICU 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK  05.12.2024 

In a groundbreaking case in north Karnataka, a preterm infant weighing 840 grams, delivered at 25 weeks (six months of pregnancy), survived after receiving 80 days of specialised care, said Dr Marthandappa DH of Sparsham Children Hospital, Hubballi. Speaking to reporters in Hubballi Thursday, he said this case represents one of the earliest surviving premature births by gestational age in north Karnataka region.

The male infant was delivered in Sept 2024, following complications of cervi cal incompetence and premature rupture of membranes, which was managed by obstetrician Dr Seema Bhayiri. The infant initially experienced considerable difficulties due to incomplete development of vital organs, including the lungs, brain, gut, and skin. “The baby was placed on non-invasive mechanical ventilation for several days before being weaned to be given continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) support for 30 days,” he said. “Kangaroo mother care even on CPAP, nutritional aspects with colostrum painting, and other supportive measures were provided and gradually the baby began to breastfeed,” he added. 

After 80 days in the NICU, the infant was discharged on Nov 25, reaching a weight of 1.6kg. Infants born before 28 weeks are classified as ‘micropremies’ and their survival presents significant challenges, requiring careful recreation of womb-like conditions in NICU with minimal light and sound exposure, he added.

Consider doc’s deputation plea for higher studies: HC

Consider doc’s deputation plea for higher studies: HC 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 5.12.2024

Bengaluru : The HC recently said the govt should consider, in a time-bound manner, its employees’ representation seeking permission to take up higher studies. Dr Madhu Kumar MH, a specialist physician working in Mysuru, submitted a request last year. Based on his merit ranking in NEETSS 2023, the medical counselling committee (MCC), DGHS, ministry of health and family welfare, govt of India, allotted him a seat in DNB SS cardiology programme. This is a three-year super-specialty course in medical science at Apollo BGS Hospital, Mysuru. 

The commissioner for health and family welfare services submitted a recommendation dated April 3 to govt to consider his representation for sanction of study leave so that he could complete the course and return after making value addition. The recommendation also cited the need for undergoing the course as there was a dearth of doctors in the department with superspecialty degrees. The said representation wasn’t considered despite the recommendation, so Madhu Kumar moved Karnataka State Administrative Tribunal (KSAT).

On Aug 9, the tribunal granted him relief and directed the govt to consider his representation for permission to go on deputation for higher studies. The state challenged the same before the high court. A division bench of Justices Krishna S Dixit and CM Joshi pointed out that KCSR Rules give discretion to the govt to send its employees on deputation for pursuing special courses such as higher studies, specialised training in professional/technical subjects having a direct and close connection with the sphere of his/her duty. However, as with any discretion, this has to be exercised according to rules of reason and justice, the bench added. 

The bench rejected the govt’s contention that after making value addition, deputationists may quit public employment and go for greener pastures, causing loss to the exchequer. It said the 

employee concerned has to execute a bond, adding: “After all, ours is a constitutionally ordained welfare state and therefore, it has to conduct itself as a model employer.”

UG, PG aspirants can seek admission in any discipline irrespective of subject previously studied: UGC

UG, PG aspirants can seek admission in any discipline irrespective of subject previously studied: UGC

The changes aim to set a new standard for the awarding of UG and PG degrees, ensuring that institutions can meet the diverse needs of today's students.

The UGC head office in New Delhi.File photo | PTI

Kavita Bajeli-Datt

Updated on:

05 Dec 2024, 4:15 pm

NEW DELHI: Twice a year admission, multiple entry and exit options, and greater flexibility for admission in any discipline of undergraduate programme or postgraduate are some of the standout aspects of the draft regulations announced on Thursday by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

The changes aim to set a new standard for the awarding of UG and PG degrees, ensuring that institutions can meet the diverse needs of today's students.

Speaking to The New Indian Express, UGC Chairman, Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar said, “The UGC Draft (Minimum Standards of Instructions in the Award of UG and PG Degrees) Regulations 2024 aims to transform higher education in India by introducing greater flexibility, removal of disciplinary regicide, inclusivity, and multidisciplinary learning opportunities for students.”

He said these regulations facilitate biannual admissions for higher education institutions (HEIs) if they are prepared to introduce them, allowing students to enrol twice yearly – in July/August and January/February.

"The regulations incorporate multiple entry and exit provisions, recognition of prior learning, and the flexibility to pursue two UG/PG programs simultaneously. We have also decoupled eligibility for UG and PG admissions from the rigid discipline-specific requirements of school education," he said.

Under these regulations, he added that students can choose to study in any program irrespective of their past disciplinary qualifications if they demonstrate competency by clearing the relevant entrance examinations.

He further said that recognizing the diverse learning modes promoted by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, these regulations provide autonomy to HEIs to determine student attendance requirements, ensuring they align with evolving academic needs.

Moreover, students will now have the option to earn 50% of their credits in their major discipline. In contrast, the remaining credits can be allocated to skill development, apprenticeships, or multidisciplinary subjects, fostering holistic development.

"With these reforms, we ensure that Indian higher education evolves to meet global standards while staying rooted in inclusivity and adaptability to diverse learner needs," he added.

The draft also states that irrespective of the disciplines taken by a student in class 12 or UG, a student is eligible for admission in any discipline of the UG programme or PG programme if the student qualifies for the National or university-level entrance examination in the discipline of the UG/PG programme.

Considering the diverse learning modes and holistic and multidisciplinary learning opportunities suggested by NEP 2020, HEIs shall decide on the minimum attendance requirement of students in different programmes with the approval of their statutory bodies.

An undergraduate degree lasts three or four years, and a postgraduate degree generally lasts one or two years.

However, the duration of an undergraduate degree can be shorter or longer. Key provisions of the Accelerated Degree Programme (ADP) and Extended Degree Programme (EDP) are applicable only at the undergraduate level.

HEIs can earmark up to 10% of sanctioned intake for ADP with no cap for EDP.

The HEI-constituted committee will evaluate a student's credit-completing potential based on their performance in the first or second semester and make recommendations.

Also, students shall have the option to choose ADP/EDP either at the end of the first semester or the second semester and not beyond that.

In the ADP/EDP, students will follow the same curriculum content and total credits prescribed for the programme for a standard duration. The only change will be in the duration of the programme.

The number of courses to be completed in each semester will be more or less according to the duration opted by the students, the draft said.

The ADP and EDP degrees will contain a self-contained note stating that the academic requirements required in a standard duration have been completed in a shortened or extended duration.

Students completing a four-year undergraduate degree (Hons./Hons. with Research) in relevant subjects (level 6, e.g. B.Sc. Hons. in Physics, B.Sc. Hons. in Biology, B.Sc. Hons. in Mathematics) and students completing a four-year undergraduate degree (level 6, e.g. B.E., B. Tech., etc.) shall be eligible for the 2-year/4 semester postgraduate programme (level 7, e.g. M.E., M.Tech. etc.), the draft stated.

The draft also said that if the HEIs fail to comply with the regulations, action will be taken.

In the first step, the Commission shall constitute an enquiry committee to investigate the violations. Suppose the Commission's enquiry committee establishes the violations, then in that case, the HEI shall be either debarred from participating in UGC schemes, debarred from offering degree programmes, or debarred from offering ODL and online mode programmes. They can also be removed from the list of HEIs maintained under Section 2(f) and 12B of UGC Act 1956.

Furthermore, UGC may take additional punitive actions per the Commission's decision on a case-to-case basis.

"Government departments, private organizations, and recruiting agencies like UPSC/State Service Commission, etc., should treat the degrees from ADP and EDP on par with degrees with standard duration," it added.

K’taka may adopt Gujarat model for university administration

K’taka may adopt Gujarat model for university administration 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 05.12.2024

Bengaluru : The state govt will look into the Gujarat model in university administration, while amending the Karnataka State Universities (KSU) Act 2000, said higher education minister MC Sudhakar. “In the past, efforts to amend the KSU Act were made by G Parameshwara when he was the higher education minister, but unfortunately, the amended bill was not cleared by the then President of India. It is necessary to bring amendments as per the need of the time,” the minister said. 

“In Gujarat, major powers of the governor have been cut down to merely presiding over the convocation. The act gives the Gujarat govt significant control over university management, including in the appointment of vice chancellors,” he said. While the minister did not reveal what amendments are proposed, he said that they have been sent to the law department for vetting. Once the legal opinion is taken, it will be placed before the cabinet and the legislature. He also refused to speak on the proposed tenure of VCs. 

Man trying to get pilot training loses ₹7L to ‘academy manager’

Man trying to get pilot training loses ₹7L to ‘academy manager’ 

CLICKBAIT

Chaithanya.Swamy@timesofindia.com  05.12.2024

Bengaluru : A 23-year-old youth who wanted to get admission to a flying school for pilot training lost Rs 7 lakh after a man, claiming to be a manager at the academy, cheated him by receiving the money online. Nikhil (name changed), a resident of Wilson Garden, said in his complaint to Central CEN Crime police that he paid the money between June and July. The fraudster was identified as Amanjot Singh. Keen on joining pilot training, Nikhil searched for training schools on the internet in May and found the portal of Aviation Connectivity and Infrastructure Developers Private Limited (ACIDPL). Nikhil received a call from the number, 9958291444, on May 21 and the caller introduced himself as Amanjot Singh, a manager at Airtaxi Academy, an organ of ACIDPL. He shared details about the procedure for admission to the academy. Later, he contacted Nikhil from mobile number 9667541310 and told him about the fee structure and the instalments available for aspirants to gain admission. Singh told Nikhil that to book a seat in the academy, he should pay Rs 1 lakh as registration fee and the course fee would cost him around Rs 50 lakh. 

Singh claimed the academy was located in Hubballi. He later shared a bank account number, 428800311114, with Nikhil and asked him to make the payment. Nikhil made the online payment to this account number for registration. Singh then explained to him that he would be given the facility of paying the fee in installments for the course and provided another bank account number, 159667713108, asking him to make the payment of Rs 6 lakh as an instalment. Nikhil believed he was making payments to the academy and transferred Rs 6 lakh to the bank account number provided to him. However, after paying Rs 7lakh, Nikhil did not secure admission to the academy. Nikhil told police the academy is yet to receive approval from Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Therefore, the academy wanted to return the money to the aspirants but since Nikhil had paid the money to the bank accounts provided by Singh, he was not eligible for a refund. Nikhil waited until Nov 27 and lodged a complaint. A senior police officer said, “We have registered a case under the Information Technology Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) section 318 (cheating) against Singh, ACIDPL, and Airtaxi Academy.” When TOI contacted the academy, they did not comment

Man exposes markscard racket, edu academy owner in custody

Man exposes markscard racket, edu academy owner in custody

Chaithanya.Swamy@timesofindia.com

Bengaluru : A 46-year-old real estate dealer has exposed a fake markscard racket run by a distance education academy in Ramarao Layout of Katriguppe, Banashankari II Stage in south Bengaluru. Following his complaint, Central Crime Branch (CCB) sleuths have arrested Monish, 28, who runs the academy and are probing. Mirza Inamul Huq, a resident of Palace Guttahalli, approached CCB police recently, informing them about the racket run by Mercury Academy, Distance Education Centre. Huq’s nephew, Mirza Nameath Ul Huq, 28, who studied until class 10, wanted to continue his studies in correspondence (distance) education. They called the mobile number 9739770484 mentioned in the academy’s portal. Monish picked the call and introduced himself as the head of the academy. Monish claimed that they were affiliated with many reputed universities and suggested Huq visit the academy to know more.

Accordingly, Huq took his nephew to the academy on Oct 20 for PUC admission . Monish allegedly told Huq not to worry about the exam as they have links with the officials in the education board and universities. He would manage to get the markscard without exam in a month or two if they were ready to pay Rs 2 lakh. Certificate for Rs 2 lakh Huq asked him to get admission for Nameath, if not they didn’t want any kind of business with him and walked out. Monish called him the next morning and explained how their connections were with the universities and suggested he not waste his nephew's two years in making him appear for the exam. He also sent a few markscards as evidence to convince them that they were genuine and provided a link to Karnataka State Council of Intermediate And Higher Education ‘www.karnatakastatecouncil.in’ to check them by entering the enrolment number and serial number of the sample markscard sent to him.

He said the officials and universities would issue the markscard with a previous year's date and managed to convince Huq to share details of his nephew, including a photo and SSLC markscard. Huq made an online payment of Rs 10,000 to 9739770484 through a digital payment application on the same day as a registration fee. Monish claimed to have registered Nameath’s name and, citing course fee and bribe, collected Rs 1 lakh more from Huq. On Monday, Monish asked Huq to collect his nephew’s PUC markscard from the academy by paying the remaining amount.

Huq’s plan was to expose the racket with evidence. After learning that the markscard was ready, he approached CCB police and filed a complaint. As per the instructions, he went to the academy to collect the markscard, and the CCB sleuths in plainclothes caught Monish red-handed. Police seized many documents, including markscards and other students’ details from the academy, along with electronic devices such as laptop. A case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 318 (cheating), 336 (forgery), and 340 (forged document or electronic record and using it as genuine).

Dr Sanjay Patolia arrested for angioplasty deaths, fraud

Dr Sanjay Patolia arrested for angioplasty deaths, fraud 

KHYATI CASE TIMES NEWS NETWORK  05.12.2024

Ahmedabad : City crime branch on Wednesday arrested Dr Sanjay Patolia, a senior medical professional and director of Khyati Hospital, in connection with two angioplasty deaths at the hospital on Nov 11. Patolia was taken into custody hours after a local court rejected his anticipatory bail plea on Tuesday. 

A complaint was registered against Patolia and the other accused on Nov 13, two days after two patients from Borisana village in Mehsana died under suspicious circumstances after angioplasty at the Bodakdev hospital. The autopsy report states they died following cardiac arrest after the procedure. 

The hospital is accused of conducting unnecessary medical procedures to avail benefits under Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). Investigation found that three more patients had died at the hospital in a similar manner in the recent past. According to police sources, Patolia, a resident of Altius-3 Apartments on Sindhu Bhavan Road, had gone to meet a doctor friend near Silver Oak University in Gota during the early hours of Wednesday when he was arrested. 

After the Nov 11 deaths brought Khyati Hospital under scanner, Patolia went to his New Life Hospital in Raj kot and spent the night there. On Nov 13, when he learned that an offence had been registered in the case, he left his car in the compound of the Rajkot hospital, switched off his mobile and fled to Udaipur by bus. After reaching Udaipur on Nov 15, Patolia used public transport to travel to Nathdwara, Ajmer, Pali, Jaipur and Delhi and stayed in hotels to evade arrest. Wednesday’s development has taken the total number of arrests in the case to seven. The six others arrested earlier are hospital director (marketing and branding) Chirag Rajput, CEO Rahul Jain and three members of the  marketing team — Milind Patel, Pratik Bhatt and Pankil Patel. Kartik Patel, the owner of Khyati Hospital and a co-accused in the case, is in Dubai. He had filed a plea for anticipatory bail through his relative at Ahmedabad district court. They have been accused of culpable homicide and hatching criminal conspiracy to fraudulently obtain funds from PM-JAY. 

A long career from teaching to hospital mgmt 

Ahmedabad : Dr Sanjay Patolia is the founder of Ahmedabad Bariatrics Hospital. In 2021 and one of the directors of Khyati Hospital. According to sources, he recruited doctors, managed the setting up of new departments at the hospital and made all the treatment-related decisions. He worked as assistant professor at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Medical College in Rajkot from 1999 to 2002. He was with Sardar Patel Hospital in Rajkot from 2003 to 2006. In 2012, Patolia, along with Dr Mahendra Narvariya and Dr Manish Khetan, started group practice in Ahmedabad under the name Ahmedabad Bariatrics and Cosmetic Pvt. Ltd, with Asian Bariatrics Hospital as the trade name. From 2012 to 2014, he practised at Asian Bariatrics Hospital for one to two days a week and the rest of the days in Rajkot. From 2014, he began practising full-time at the hospital. In 2016, Dr Khetan left the hospital. In 2021, after Dr Narvariya too left, Kartik Patel, Pradip Kothari and Chirag Rajput joined as partners. Patolia serves as a full-time doctor in the bariatrics department at Khyati Hospital, while his wife, Dr Hetal Patolia, is a fulltime doctor in the gynaecology department.

Man, 79, lands at airport from US, dies a few minutes later

Man, 79, lands at airport from US, dies a few minutes later 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK  05.12.2024 

Chennai : A 79-year-old man collapsed and died at Chennai airport on Tuesday, a few minutes after landing from the US. The deceased, G Ramanujalu of Navalpakkam village near Vandavasi in Tiruvannamalai district, went to visit his son in San Francisco and returned via Dubai. He landed in Chennai around 2.30am but could not find one of his check-in bags on the conveyor belt. While waiting for the luggage, he developed uneasiness and collapsed. He was rushed to the medical facility inside the airport, but he was declared dead. Upon receiving information, a team of the airport police arrived at the spot and sent the body to Chrome pet govt hospital for a post-mortem. Police sources said customs officials confiscated his luggage as there was a brand new laptop in a bag. Further investigation is on.