Monday, June 19, 2023
VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme
The Government of India has launched a fellowship program known as VAIBHAV (Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik) to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing between the Indian diaspora scientists and academic institutions in India. Under the Ministry of Science and Technology, this initiative aims to harness the expertise of scientists and technologists of Indian origin residing abroad and promote collaborative research in frontier areas of Science and Technology.
Connecting Global Indian Scientists
The VAIBHAV fellowship program targets scientists and technologists of Indian origin, including NRI (Non-Resident Indians), OCI (Overseas Citizen of India), and PIO (Person of Indian Origin) engaged in research activities in their respective countries. The program seeks to bridge the gap between the Indian diaspora and Indian academic and R&D institutions.
Knowledge Verticals and Collaboration
The selected fellows, totaling 75 in number, will have the opportunity to work in 18 identified knowledge verticals, including quantum technology, health, pharma, electronics, agriculture, energy, computer sciences, and material sciences. These areas represent cutting-edge fields where collaboration can lead to groundbreaking advancements.
Duration and Fellowship Benefits
A VAIBHAV fellow can spend up to two months in India each year for a maximum duration of three years. The fellowship comes with a comprehensive grant that covers various expenses. This includes a fellowship grant of Rs 4,00,000 per month, support for international and domestic travel, accommodation, and contingencies. The generous fellowship package ensures that the fellows can focus on their research and contribute to the academic and scientific ecosystem in India.
Application and Deadline
Applicants can access the proposal formats and submit their applications through the e-PMS (e-Project Management System) portal of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The deadline for submitting applications for the first call of VAIBHAV fellowships is July 31, 2023. It is important for interested scientists and technologists to adhere to this timeline to be considered for this prestigious opportunity.
Promoting Science, Research, and Innovation
The VAIBHAV fellowship program aligns with the Government of India’s commitment to promote science, research, and innovation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of science in driving socio-economic transformations. The program serves as a platform to bring together diverse expertise, foster collaboration, and leverage the knowledge and wisdom of the global Indian scientific community.
GoI-UNSDCF 2023-2027
The Government of India (GoI) and the United Nations (UN) have joined hands to strengthen their commitment towards sustainable development. A significant milestone was achieved with the signing of the Government of India – United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (GoI-UNSDCF) 2023-2027. This partnership aims to accelerate progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promote gender equality, empower youth, and uphold human rights.
Objectives and Pillars of the GoI-UNSDCF
The primary objective of the GoI-UNSDCF 2023-2027 is to align with the national vision for development and contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. The framework is built upon four strategic pillars: People, Prosperity, Planet, and Participation. These pillars are interlinked and represent the key areas of focus for sustainable development.
Outcome Areas and Focus
Within the GoI-UNSDCF, six outcome areas have been identified to guide the efforts towards sustainable development. These areas include Health and Well-being, Nutrition and Food Security, Quality Education, Economic Growth and Decent Work, Environment, Climate, WASH, and Resilience, as well as Empowering People, Communities, and Institutions.
A notable aspect of the GoI-UNSDCF is its specific focus on SDG localization and South-South cooperation. This emphasizes India’s leadership in implementing and accelerating the SDGs within its own territory while championing collaboration and knowledge sharing among developing nations.
Implementation and Monitoring
The formulation of the GoI-UNSDCF was led by NITI Aayog, with active participation from line ministries, state governments, union territories, and the UN development system in India. The implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the framework will be co-led by the Government of India and the United Nations through a Joint Steering Committee. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive oversight and effective coordination to achieve the desired outcomes.
India’s Vision and Global Impact
Over the next 25 years, India envisions a transformed nation, referred to as ‘Viksit Bharat,’ aligned with the clarion call of the Hon’ble Prime Minister. The GoI-UNSDCF plays a crucial role in realizing this vision, ensuring that no one is left behind, and leveraging the potential of India’s vast and diverse demography.
Expert Advice: Top 10 preparation strategies to ace UPSC Examination
Clearing the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam is a challenging feat that requires dedication, perseverance, and a strong mental resolve. As one of the toughest competitive exams in India, the immense competition, vast syllabus, and rigorous preparation required for the UPSC exam can take a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of candidates. However, with the right coping mechanisms and effective strategies, you can navigate through the UPSC journey with confidence and increase your chances of success. In this article, we will discuss how to cope with the stress of clearing UPSC and provide you with valuable strategies to ace the exam.
1. Understand the exam
The first step to cope with the stress of clearing UPSC is to have a thorough understanding of the exam. Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, syllabus, and marking scheme. It will help you create a structured study plan and alleviate uncertainties about the exam.
2. Develop a study schedule
Time management is crucial when preparing for UPSC. So, create a realistic study schedule that allows you to take regular breaks and leisure activities. You should also break down the syllabus into smaller, manageable chunks, and allocate specific time slots for each topic to stay organized, reduce stress, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
3. Stay positive and motivated
Maintaining a positive mindset is essential throughout your UPSC journey. Aspirants must celebrate small victories, focus on their strengths, and learn from their failures. Furthermore, they should surround themselves with positive affirmations and motivational resources like books, videos, and success stories to keep their spirits high.
4. Join a study group or coaching center
It would be great if candidates join a study group or enroll in a coaching center that can provide them with a structured learning environment and the opportunity to interact with fellow aspirants. Collaborating with like-minded individuals, sharing knowledge, and discussing doubts can enhance their understanding and reduce the feeling of isolation.
5. Take mock tests and analyze the performance
Regularly taking mock tests is a vital part of the UPSC examination preparation. It helps you assess your progress, identify areas of improvement, and familiarize yourself with the exam format. So, every aspirant should analyze their performance in mock tests, work on their weaknesses, and develop effective test-taking strategies accordingly.
6. Stay updated with current affairs
UPSC places significant emphasis on current affairs. Stay updated with the latest national and international news through newspapers, magazines, online portals, and television. Make notes of important events, government policies, and socio-economic issues to incorporate them into your preparation.
7. Focus on conceptual clarity
Understanding concepts thoroughly is more important than rote learning. UPSC tests your analytical and problem-solving abilities rather than mere memorization. Hence, focus on building a strong foundation by studying from reliable sources, referring to standard textbooks, and engaging in critical thinking.
8. Revision and time management in the exam
In the final days leading up to the exam, you should prioritize revision over new topics. Revise key concepts, practice answer writing, and solve previous years' question papers. Develop time management skills to ensure that you complete the exam within the allocated time frame.
9. Seek support from family and friends
Surround yourself with a supportive network of family and friends who understand your aspirations and challenges. Share your concerns, discuss your progress, and seek guidance when needed. Their encouragement and emotional support will help you stay motivated during challenging times.
10. Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques
Lastly, stress can take a toll on your mental and physical well-being. Practicing mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga will help you calm your mind and relax your body. Besides, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet also play a vital role in reducing stress levels.
Clearing the UPSC examination requires not only hard work and dedication but also effective strategies to cope with stress. So, by following the above-listed valuable tips, you can overcome the stress and emerge successful. Remember, it's not just about clearing the exam but also enjoying the process and developing skills that will serve you well in your future endeavors.
Sriram Srirangam
Source: The Telegraph, 17/06/23
Widen it: Editorial on the status of mid-day meal programme in West Bengal
Politics remains a persistent concern even though the mid-day meal programme, whose finances are shared by the states and Centre, could have been a platform to strengthen India’s federal ethos
The Covid-19 pandemic’s impact on children’s health and nutrition cannot be overstated. The children of West Bengal have, unsurprisingly, not been an exception. A study conducted two years ago found that the number of children suffering from malnutrition had almost doubled in the state since the pandemic had forced the closure of the Integrated Child Development Services. Even before the pandemic, the rate of stunting among children in Bengal, the National Family Health Survey-5 conducted in 2019-20 found, had risen marginally. The link between nutrition and another crucial sphere — education — needs equal attention. A child can hardly concentrate on studies on an empty stomach. The mid-day meal programme has gone a long way in addressing the problem. A study found that children who were provided school lunches for three to four years scored upto 18% higher in their tests. Therefore, the Bengal administration’s recent decision to include an ‘extra day’ of nutrition in the meals served to children after the summer holidays is laudable. But why is it being implemented in government and government-aided schools in Jangalmahal, Sunderbans and the Dooars only? Bengal has shown that it is capable of inventiveness in welfare. The mandatory inclusion of eggs and a wide assortment of seasonal fruits in the prescribed diet of students — an initiative that was wholly funded from the state’s coffers — bears evidence of this. The state must find ways of widening the coverage of an extra day’s nutrition, a reliable and often the only source of calories and protein for poor children.
Multiple studies have shown that the mid-day meal programme — now rechristened the PM Poshan scheme — has been able to address classroom hunger, improve children’s concentration on the lessons, and lead to higher enrolment. And, yet, the initiative is hobbled by a number of problems. Central allocation has fallen to Rs 11,600 crores in 2023-24 from Rs 12,800 crores in 2022-23. There is an urgent need to raise the allocation keeping in mind the spectre of inflation that makes it impossible to feed the children nutritious food at the current miserly rates. Corruption remains an endemic challenge: the Union ministry of education recently found “serious discrepancies” in Bengal’s midday meal data. The salaries of anganwadi staff are low: even this pittance is not distributed on time. Politics remains a persistent concern even though the mid-day meal programme, whose finances are shared by the states and the Centre, could have been a platform to strengthen India’s federal ethos.
Source: The Telegraph, 19/06/23
Thursday, June 15, 2023
Quote of the Day June 15, 2023
“My formula for living is quite simple. I get up in the morning and I go to bed at night. In between, I occupy myself as best I can.”
Cary Grant
“जिंदगी का मेरा सूत्र बहुत ही सरल है। मैं सुबह जागता हूं तथा रात को सो जाता हूं। इसके बीच में मैं जितना हो सके स्वयं को व्यस्त रखता हूं।”
केरी ग्रांट
UGC Introduces New Degree Nomenclatures
In a move aligned with global norms and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the higher education regulator in India, the University Grants Commission (UGC), is set to introduce a fresh range of college degree names. These changes aim to enhance the flexibility and alignment of degree programs with contemporary educational requirements.
Section 22 of the UGC Act
Section 22 of the UGC Act has the provisions to empower the Universities Grants Commission to notify new degree nomenclatures. It is in line with this provision that the UGC is planning to introduce new names that align with the aspirations of the NEP 2020.
Introducing New Degree Names
Traditionally, Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees have been associated with science subjects in India, while Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees have encompassed arts, humanities, and social sciences. However, considering the restructuring proposed by the NEP 2020, a committee appointed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) has recommended the introduction of Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees for all four-year undergraduate honours programs, regardless of the discipline. This change emphasizes a more comprehensive understanding of the evolving academic landscape.
Flexibility Across Disciplines
The committee’s recommendations extend beyond undergraduate programs. They suggest that universities can adopt the Master of Science (MS) nomenclature for postgraduate programs, even in non-science disciplines like arts, humanities, management, and commerce. This move acknowledges the evolving nature of knowledge domains and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in today’s world.
Harvard’s Example and Differentiating Degrees
Harvard University, known for its academic excellence, offers both BA and BS degrees in engineering sciences. The differentiation lies in the curriculum and requirements. A BA engineering student earns fewer credits and has more flexibility to explore other fields of interest, while a BS engineering student receives a more specialized and technically rigorous education. This approach recognizes the diverse aspirations and preferences of students, allowing them to tailor their education accordingly.
Four-Year Honours Degrees and Research
The committee’s recommendations also include the introduction of the ‘Hons’ designation for four-year undergraduate honours programs. For instance, degrees like BA (Hons), BCom (Hons), or BS (Hons) will signify the additional depth and research components incorporated into these programs. This step acknowledges the importance of research-oriented education and promotes a spirit of inquiry among students.
Scrapping the ‘MPhil’ Degree
Aligned with the NEP 2020’s directive, the committee recommends discontinuing the ‘MPhil’ degree. This move aims to streamline the educational landscape and reduce redundancies in academic programs, aligning them with global practices.
Flexibility in Program Completion
Acknowledging the varying pace of learning, the committee suggests that if a student has earned all the required credits for a program before its official duration, they should be eligible for the award of the respective qualification. This recognizes individual progress and encourages lifelong learning.
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