TheEduStory

Discover inspiring journeys, insights, and voices from the world of education—because every learning story matters.

[theedustory]

Innovation and Impact: The Leadership Journey of IIM Rohtak Director Prof. Dheeraj Sharma

The Director of IIM Rohtak, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, has played a defining role in the institute’s rise as one of India’s leading centers for management education. Known for his visionary leadership, Prof. Sharma has positioned IIM Rohtak as a hub for academic excellence, innovation, and global relevance.

Leadership That Defines IIM Rohtak

Under Prof. Dheeraj Sharma’s directorship, IIM Rohtak has seen transformative growth across academics, research, and industry collaborations. His leadership focuses on building an inclusive, forward-looking culture by:

Expanding management programs to cater to diverse learners.

Strengthening partnerships with global universities and industries.

Enhancing faculty-led research in policy, digital transformation, and social innovation.

Promoting gender diversity, with IIM Rohtak achieving record women’s enrollment in MBA programs.

Building a Global Outlook

With a strong international vision, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma has ensured that IIM Rohtak offers students and faculty a global perspective. His initiatives include:

Student exchange programs with international universities.

Joint research with leading global institutions.

International internships and projects to expose students to cross-border challenges.

This global approach is preparing IIM Rohtak students to compete and lead in an interconnected world.

Contribution to Policy and Society

Beyond academic achievements, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Director of IIM Rohtak, has actively contributed to policy-making and social initiatives. Under his leadership, IIM Rohtak has worked with government bodies on research projects, policy frameworks, and leadership development programs for public servants and defense personnel.

Such contributions have strengthened IIM Rohtak’s role as not just an educational institute but also a policy think tank influencing governance and national development.

Innovation in Programs and Curriculum

Prof. Sharma has introduced new-age programs that align with evolving industry needs. These include:

Programs in business analytics, AI, and digital economy.

Specialized management courses in healthcare and public policy.

Leadership programs tailored for working professionals.

Unique initiatives for armed forces and civil services officers.

Through these innovations, IIM Rohtak under Prof. Sharma has ensured its graduates are future-ready.

The Road Ahead

As management education adapts to emerging challenges like sustainability, technology, and globalization, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma continues to steer IIM Rohtak with clarity and ambition. His leadership combines academic rigor with societal impact, placing the institute on a trajectory of becoming a global leader in management education.

Conclusion

The journey of Prof. Dheeraj Sharma as Director of IIM Rohtak highlights the power of visionary leadership in higher education. His emphasis on inclusivity, innovation, and nation-building has not only strengthened IIM Rohtak’s reputation but also set benchmarks for other management institutions in India.

[theedustory]

PM Modi on Teachers’ Day 2025: “Teachers’ Commitment and Compassion Inspire the Nation”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Teachers’ Day 2025 by extending heartfelt wishes to educators across the country and acknowledging their invaluable role in shaping the nation’s future. He also paid tribute to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s second President, whose birth anniversary is commemorated as Teachers’ Day each year.

In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister wrote: “Wishing everyone, particularly all hardworking teachers, a very happy #TeachersDay! The dedication of teachers to nurturing minds is the foundation of a stronger and brighter future. Their commitment and compassion are noteworthy. We also remember the life and thoughts of Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, a distinguished scholar and teacher, on his birth anniversary.”

Honouring the Teaching Community

PM Modi emphasized that teachers are not only guides in academics but also mentors who instill values, ethics, and life skills in their students. Their efforts, he noted, go far beyond classrooms — building strong citizens and shaping generations.

Legacy of Teachers’ Day

Teachers’ Day has been observed in India since 1962, when Dr. Radhakrishnan suggested that his birthday be dedicated to honouring teachers instead of personal celebrations. Since then, the day has served as a tribute to the teaching community, recognizing their selfless service in nation-building.

Today, Teachers’ Day continues to highlight the role of educators as mentors, motivators, and role models, whose influence extends well beyond academic instruction, leaving a lasting imprint on society.

[theedustory]

University of Otago Announces ₹23 Lakh Scholarships for Indian Students, Launches Outreach Program in India

The University of Otago, one of New Zealand’s leading research universities, has unveiled new undergraduate scholarships worth up to NZD 45,000 (₹23.4 lakh) for international students, with a strong focus on attracting more talent from India. The scholarships, starting at NZD 15,000 (₹7.76 lakh), will also cover first-year residential college accommodation for top-performing applicants.

Rising Indian Student Enrolments

Indian students already make up 11% of New Zealand’s international student population, with the country recording a 34% surge in enrolments last year. Otago itself reported a 45% rise in Indian enrolments in 2024, highlighting India’s growing importance as a student source market.

Otago Experience Roadshow in India

To strengthen ties further, Otago has partnered with OneStep Global to launch its first-ever Otago Experience Student Outreach this September in Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai. The event will allow students and parents to interact with faculty, explore study options across Health Sciences, Business, Humanities, and Sciences, and gain insights into scholarships, admissions, and career prospects.

“This is a first-of-its-kind event, and it’s incredibly exciting,” said Grant Robertson, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Otago and former Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand. “We value our long-standing partnerships in India, and this initiative reflects the depth of that relationship.”

Strong Career Outcomes for Graduates

Otago graduates enjoy excellent employment opportunities, with 95% securing jobs within six months of completing their degrees. The average starting salary is NZD 87,400 (₹45.4 lakh annually). Alumni hold leadership roles at global companies such as ANZ, Deloitte, Fonterra, and ASB Bank across sectors including healthcare, business, and government.

“Indian students are increasingly seeking international education that ensures both academic excellence and career outcomes,” said Aritra Ghosal, Founder & Director of OneStep Global. “With its global rankings, scholarships, and personalised student support, Otago is a very attractive destination.”

About the University of Otago

Located in Dunedin, New Zealand, the University of Otago has over 20,000 students and is widely recognised as the country’s leading postgraduate research university. It has built a reputation for academic innovation, graduate success, and teaching excellence.

[theedustory]

IIT Roorkee Convocation 2025 Marks 23% Women Graduates, Rise in Female PhD Scholars

The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) celebrated its 2025 Convocation on Teachers’ Day, conferring degrees upon 2,614 students, including 602 women graduates. The event highlighted a significant rise in women’s representation, particularly at the doctoral level, where female participation showed a remarkable surge.

Strong Female Representation

This year’s graduating batch included 1,267 undergraduates, 847 postgraduates, and 500 doctoral scholars. Among them, 178 women were awarded PhDs, compared to 146 last year and only 57 in 2023, marking a steady growth in women’s participation in advanced research. Overall, women formed 23% of the graduating class.

Convocation Highlights

The ceremony was graced by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Science and Technology, as Chief Guest. Presenting the Convocation Report, Prof. K K Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, shared key achievements:

146 patents filed during the academic year.

₹399 crore in research funding secured.

Major progress in clean energy, defence, and quantum technology projects.

Recognition of IIT Roorkee as a Centre of Excellence under the National Critical Mineral Mission.

Academic Reforms and Start-up Ecosystem

The institute also announced reforms, including curriculum modernization and the introduction of a flexi-credit system. Start-up activity remained vibrant, with over 180 start-ups valued at more than ₹4,700 crore emerging from the IIT Roorkee ecosystem.

Placements were strong, with 1,100+ job offers, including 12 international offers. Alumni continued their support, contributing ₹31 crore in 2025.

Awards and Recognitions

The convocation also honoured outstanding students and faculty:

Vansh Saini received the President’s Gold Medal.

Hardik Sahni was awarded the Director’s Gold Medal.

Several others were recognised with institute-level honours.

Coinciding with the event, Teachers’ Day 2025 was celebrated, where faculty members received awards for their excellence in teaching and research, including the Lifetime Teaching Achievement Award and the Outstanding Teacher Award.

[theedustory]

IP University to Launch BTech in Metrology from Next Academic Session; Admissions via JEE Main

Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU) has announced the introduction of a BTech in Metrology beginning in the next academic session. Unlike most of the university’s other courses, which admit students through the IPU Common Entrance Test (IPUCET), this programme will accept candidates exclusively on the basis of JEE Main scores.

First-of-its-Kind Programme in the Country

According to the university, the new course is designed to strengthen the field of metrology — the science of measurement — regarded as the backbone of engineering and industrial innovation. Currently, only a handful of IITs offer specialized courses in this discipline. With this initiative, IP University will become the first university in India to introduce a full-fledged undergraduate programme in metrology.

The university is also planning to sign an agreement with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) to support the programme with expertise, research collaboration, and industry integration.

Blend of Tradition and Modernity

“The programme will integrate elements of the Indian Knowledge System with modern engineering practices, offering students both a strong foundation and future-ready skills,” GGSIPU said in its statement.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Verma emphasized the significance of the initiative, highlighting how specialized fields like metrology fuel technological growth, industrial progress, and national innovation capacity. He encouraged students to consider careers in such emerging domains.

New Quotas and Student Support Initiatives

In addition to academic expansions, IPU has also introduced new policies for student welfare:

Orphan Children Quota: Beginning with the 2025 session, one additional seat will be reserved in every school and programme for orphaned students. Selected candidates will be eligible for a 100% fee waiver under the university’s EWS scheme.

Single Girl Child Quota: This was introduced in 2024 and continues for the upcoming session.

To enhance the admission process, IPU has also launched an AI-powered admission chatbot available on its official website (ipu.ac.in), offering instant responses to student queries.

[theedustory]

Assam Teacher’s 150-km Daily Journey Through National Park Earns Him National Teachers’ Award

Braving muddy roads, elephant crossings, and a grueling 150-km daily commute, Assam’s Debajit Ghosh has proven that passion for teaching knows no barriers. His relentless dedication to educating children from tea garden communities has earned him the prestigious National Teachers’ Award 2025, presented by President Droupadi Murmu on Teachers’ Day.

A Journey of Commitment

Every morning, Ghosh sets off from Dibrugarh, driving through the dense Dihing Patkai National Park, a route fraught with unpredictable weather and wild elephant herds. Yet, the 34-year-old principal of Namsang Tea Garden Adarsha School has never let these hurdles deter him from reaching his students.

“There is no direct public transport to the school. I take along two teachers in my car, while others come by bike. If I move out of Dibrugarh, I won’t be able to manage the school’s development work,” he explained.

Transforming Education in Tea Gardens

Established in 2022, Ghosh’s school has become a lifeline for children of nearby tea estates, where secondary education was once beyond reach. In its first two years, the school successfully enrolled over 300 out-of-school children, many of whom had dropped out after primary level.

Dropout rates are falling, and exam results are steadily improving. In the school’s second HSLC batch, 90% of students cleared their exams — a remarkable turnaround for a community that once struggled to access high school education.

Innovation in Teaching

Ghosh believes in “learning by doing” — integrating ICT tools, virtual labs, and creative activities into his lessons. From toy-making workshops to interactive science experiments, his classrooms emphasize curiosity and hands-on learning over rote memorization.

His efforts go beyond academics. Through health camps under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), he addressed widespread anaemia among students by ensuring iron and folic acid supplementation. Within three years, haemoglobin levels improved significantly across the community.

Impact Stories

One of his most inspiring success stories is Abhishek, a student who once struggled with writing and performed poorly in science. With patient mentoring, Ghosh helped him rediscover confidence and academic strength. Today, Abhishek is pursuing a PhD in Mathematics at a reputed university — a testament to the teacher’s belief in nurturing potential beyond grades.

Recognition and Hopes

Receiving the National Teachers’ Award left Ghosh emotional. “I remembered my parents and my uncle Late Tarit Ghosh, who supported me throughout my journey. This award is not just mine, it belongs to my students and community,” he said.

While the school now has a library, science lab, and teachers’ quarters, Ghosh appeals for additional support. “A dedicated sports teacher and contingency fund would make a big difference. Schools in tea gardens need separate consideration compared to those in urban areas,” he noted.

Teacher, Mentor, Changemaker

From bringing back 267 dropouts into classrooms to motivating families to believe in education, Ghosh has redefined what it means to be a teacher in rural India. His vision remains clear: to prepare students not just for exams, but for life.

“I want to be remembered as a teacher who guided students during their most crucial stage — not just as an instructor, but as a mentor who believed in them,” he said with conviction.

[theedustory]

5 Leadership Lessons from Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Director of IIM Rohtak

Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Director of the Indian Institute of Management Rohtak (IIM Rohtak), is widely recognized for his transformative leadership in academia, policy, and management education. With extensive experience in teaching, research, and institution building, he has redefined how premier B-schools can contribute to society.

Here are five key lessons from his journey that offer valuable insights for students, professionals, and leaders alike:

1. Build Institutions, Not Just Individuals

Prof. Sharma believes that leadership is not just about mentoring people but about creating systems and cultures that outlast individuals. Under his tenure, IIM Rohtak has expanded academic programmes, set up specialized centres of excellence, and built strong research capabilities. His focus on institutional strength teaches us that sustainable impact comes from building resilient organizations.

2. Embrace Innovation with Purpose

From introducing new degree programmes in emerging fields to driving digital and executive education, Prof. Sharma has championed innovation that solves real-world challenges. His leadership shows that innovation must always be tied to purpose and societal needs, rather than just being a buzzword.

3. Education Must Be Inclusive

One of his major contributions has been the focus on gender diversity and regional inclusion at IIM Rohtak. With one of the highest percentages of women in flagship MBA programmes, the institute reflects his belief that diverse classrooms create stronger leaders. His lesson: inclusive education leads to inclusive growth.

4. Global Vision, Local Relevance

Prof. Sharma has consistently advocated for an education model that prepares students for global leadership roles while addressing India’s local challenges. From collaborating with international universities to engaging with policymakers, he demonstrates that the best leaders balance global vision with local action.

5. Leadership is Service

Above all, Prof. Sharma sees leadership as a form of service to society. His involvement in policy-making, public administration training, and community-oriented initiatives underlines the importance of giving back. For him, success is not measured only by rankings or placements, but by the social impact an institution creates.

Conclusion The career of Prof. Dheeraj Sharma offers timeless lessons in leadership: build lasting institutions, innovate with purpose, embrace inclusivity, balance global and local, and serve society. For students, educators, and leaders, his journey is a reminder that true leadership lies in impact, responsibility, and vision for the future.

[theedustory]

Jamia Millia Islamia Introduces New UG Courses in German, Japanese, and Child Counseling for 2025–26

Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) has announced the launch of new academic programmes for the 2025–26 session, including B.A. (Hons.) in German Studies, B.A. (Hons.) in Japanese Studies, and an Advanced Diploma in Child Guidance & Counseling.

The undergraduate programmes in German and Japanese Studies have been rolled out under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 framework as part of the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP). These courses aim to integrate language proficiency with cultural studies, translation and interpretation skills, and industry-focused applications, preparing students for global opportunities.

The Advanced Diploma in Child Guidance & Counseling, accredited by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), is designed to prepare RCI-approved counselors who can work in schools, healthcare institutions, hospitals, clinics, government agencies, and NGOs both in India and abroad.

With the introduction of these programmes, JMI seeks to strengthen India’s cultural and professional ties with Europe and Japan, while also addressing the increasing need for qualified professionals in child development and counseling.

How to Apply for JMI’s New Courses:

Visit the official JMI admission portal.

Click on “New Registration.”

Fill in the required details and choose your preferred course.

Submit the form to successfully register.

Applications are currently open online for all three courses.

[theedustory]

Education Minister Urges IITs to Drive ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ Vision at 56th IIT Council Meeting

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday chaired the 56th meeting of the Council of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) at IIT Delhi, where he called on the premier institutes to take a leadership role in advancing the Prime Minister’s vision of “Atmanirbharta se Samriddha Bharat.”

Mr. Pradhan emphasized that IITs must act as catalysts of self-reliance, innovation, and inclusive growth, moving beyond incremental change to achieve a “quantum leap” in India’s higher education and research ecosystem. He stressed the importance of offering instruction in regional languages alongside English to ensure inclusivity in technical education.

Highlighting the entrepreneurial ecosystem nurtured by IITs, the Minister noted that the institutes have already supported over 6,000 start-ups, 56 unicorns, and nearly 5,000 patents, making them significant contributors to India’s innovation landscape. He urged IITs to focus on translational research in critical technologies and to produce not only job seekers but also job creators capable of solving real-world challenges.

In a post on X, Mr. Pradhan expressed confidence that IITs will play a defining role in translating national aspirations into measurable outcomes—generating large-scale employment, boosting economic opportunities, and helping India achieve its vision of a Samriddh and Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The meeting also underscored the growing impact of initiatives such as the PM Research Fellowship, Centres of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence, and research parks, which are positioning IITs as engines of economic growth in line with the Prime Minister’s call to “Reform, Perform, Transform.”

Minister of State for Education and DoNER, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, echoed this vision, describing IITs as engines of Innovation, Inclusion, and Transformation. He noted that with 23 IITs, global campuses, and a thriving start-up ecosystem, the institutes are producing world-class innovators and leaders while strengthening India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

[theedustory]

Haryana CM Praises Smooth Conduct of CET Exam; Correction Portal to Open Soon

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday announced that the correction portal for the recently held Common Eligibility Test (CET) will be launched within the next couple of days, allowing candidates ample time to rectify errors in their applications.

Responding to a calling attention motion in the State Assembly, CM Saini emphasized that for the first time in the state, the CET was conducted in a systematic and organized manner, drawing appreciation from candidates, their parents, and the public.

The exam, conducted by the Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC) for recruitment to Group C posts, witnessed high participation. Out of 13.48 lakh registered candidates, nearly 12.46 lakh appeared, marking an impressive 92% turnout.

Countering opposition allegations of irregularities and uneven paper levels, Saini said such variations are natural in multi-session exams. He added that HSSC had already informed candidates about the use of a normalization formula to balance difficulty levels across sessions. The same practice, he pointed out, is used by national bodies such as the UPSC, SSC, NTA, RRB, and IBPS.

While acknowledging minor internet-related issues at some centers during biometric verification in the July 26 morning session, the CM assured that these were resolved before the exam commenced, ensuring no disruption.

Saini further remarked that concerns over the CET are being raised only by opposition leaders, while candidates and their families have expressed satisfaction with the process. He urged the opposition to appreciate the government’s efforts in successfully conducting the large-scale examination.

The CET was conducted smoothly across four sessions over two days, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparent and efficient recruitment, the CM said.

[theedustory]

Jamia Millia Islamia Launches New UG Courses in German, Japanese, and Advanced Diploma in Child Counseling

Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) has announced the introduction of three new academic programmes for the 2025–26 session — B.A. (Hons.) in German Studies, B.A. (Hons.) in Japanese Studies, and an Advanced Diploma in Child Guidance & Counseling.

Applications for these courses are now open online and will remain available until September 6, 2025. The admission test is scheduled to be held on September 14, 2025.

The German and Japanese Studies programmes, launched under the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP), are designed in line with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020). These courses blend language training with cultural studies, translation and interpretation skills, and industry-focused applications, preparing students for global career opportunities.

The Advanced Diploma in Child Guidance & Counseling, accredited by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), aims to train professionals in child development and counseling. Graduates of this diploma will be eligible to work as RCI-approved counselors in schools, hospitals, healthcare centers, government institutions, and NGOs at both national and international levels.

Speaking on the launch, Vice Chancellor Prof. Mazhar Asif and Registrar Prof. Md Mahtab Alam Rizvi highlighted that the new offerings strengthen JMI’s position in foreign language education while also addressing the growing need for specialized professionals in child guidance and counseling.

Interested candidates can apply for these courses through the official JMI admissions portal: 👉 JMI Admission Form Link

[theedustory]

IIT Council Endorses Accreditation Move; Framework Yet to Be Finalized

The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are set to undergo formal accreditation, following a decision taken at the IIT Council meeting held on Monday. However, clarity on which body will conduct the accreditation and the exact modalities is still awaited, according to senior officials from the Ministry of Education.

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 had proposed the creation of a National Accreditation Council (NAC) under the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) to serve as an overarching accreditation body. With HECI yet to be established, the accreditation process for IITs remains to be fully mapped out.

At present, IITs follow their own peer-review based evaluation system and do not fall under the ambit of the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), which accredits most higher education institutions in the country. A committee headed by Dr. K. Radhakrishnan had in 2023 recommended bringing IITs into a unified accreditation framework.

Officials indicated that IITs may soon propose their own framework for the process. A timeline for implementation has not been set.

The council, meeting after two years—the last session was in April 2023—also reviewed initiatives related to student well-being. IIT Madras presented details of its efforts toward supporting mental health, with members stressing the need for a stronger institutional response in this area.

Another key issue discussed was the use of regional languages in technical education. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged IITs to adopt Indian languages as a medium of instruction to foster inclusive growth. Currently, IIT Jodhpur is the only institute offering first-year BTech courses in Hindi. Final decisions on language adoption will rest with the Senate of each institute.

Although the National Credit Framework was listed on the agenda, it was not taken up for discussion. Officials noted, however, that IITs have already prepared a framework for its implementation.

[theedustory]

Dheeraj Sharma on Why Foreign Brands Lead India’s FMCG Market

In this insightful talk, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Director of IIM Rohtak, explains the reasons behind the rising dominance of foreign brands in India’s FMCG sector. He discusses how global marketing strategies, consumer perceptions, and economic factors challenge Indian brands' growth in the competitive market.

[theedustory]

Top Indian Business Icons and Politicians Who Graduated from Harvard University

Harvard University, ranked fifth globally with a perfect Employer Reputation score of 100, has long been a coveted destination for aspiring leaders and visionaries across disciplines. Many of India’s most influential business magnates, philanthropists, and political figures have been shaped by the rigorous academic and leadership programs offered by this prestigious institution.

Here’s a look at some of the prominent Indian personalities who pursued their education at Harvard University and have left a significant mark in their respective fields:

1. Ratan Tata

The late Ratan Tata, one of India’s most respected industrialists, is celebrated for his transformative leadership at the Tata Group. Though he earned his undergraduate degree in Architecture from Cornell University in 1962, Tata enhanced his business acumen by completing the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School in 1975, which he later credited for influencing his corporate strategies.

2. Anand Mahindra

Anand Mahindra, the charismatic leader of Mahindra Group, is valued at around $4 billion as of July 2025 (Forbes). He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Arts/Science (BA) and later earned an MBA from Harvard Business School. Known for his sharp business instincts and advocacy for sustainable development, Mahindra has been a pivotal figure in shaping India’s automotive and technology sectors.

3. Rahul Bajaj

The late Rahul Bajaj, former Chairman of the Bajaj Group, is remembered for steering the company into one of India’s largest conglomerates. After completing his MBA from Harvard Business School, Bajaj took the reins of Bajaj Auto in 1965, propelling it to industry leadership. His contributions extended to public service, having served as a Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) from 2006 to 2010.

4. P. Chidambaram

Palaniappan Chidambaram, veteran politician and noted lawyer, has been an influential figure in Indian politics, having held key ministerial portfolios including Finance and Home Affairs. A graduate in Science and Law from the University of Madras, Chidambaram further honed his skills with an MBA from Harvard Business School, which shaped his approach to economic policy and governance.

Harvard’s Legacy in India’s Leadership Landscape

Harvard University’s rigorous programs across business, law, economics, and public policy continue to nurture global leaders. For Indian students, it remains a beacon of academic excellence, fostering talents who go on to make substantial contributions in business, governance, and social development.

The university’s global alumni network and reputation for producing world-class professionals make it a sought-after institution for ambitious individuals aiming for impactful careers.

[theedustory]

Over 4.7 Lakh Pirated NCERT Textbooks Seized Since 2024, Education Ministry Informs Rajya Sabha

In a significant crackdown on textbook piracy, the Ministry of Education has revealed that more than 4.7 lakh counterfeit copies of NCERT textbooks have been confiscated across the country since 2024. Union Minister of State for Education, Jayant Chaudhary, disclosed the figures in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

Highlighting the growing menace of piracy, Chaudhary stated, “Instances of pirated NCERT textbooks have been reported from multiple regions nationwide. During 2024 and 2025, authorities seized approximately 4.71 lakh fake copies through coordinated operations in various states. Such piracy is largely driven by commercial exploitation by unscrupulous entities.”

He reiterated NCERT’s primary mission of providing quality educational resources to students across India at highly subsidized rates. “The objective of NCERT is to ensure affordable textbooks for every student, adhering to a no-profit, no-loss principle,” he emphasized.

Nationwide Raids Target Piracy Networks

Over the past year, NCERT has intensified its anti-piracy operations, conducting raids at 29 locations linked to the illegal printing and distribution of counterfeit textbooks. The enforcement actions targeted facilities involved in the production of fake NCERT watermarked paper and unauthorized printing units. Seized assets, including stock and machinery, are estimated to be worth over ₹20 crore.

To further curb textbook piracy, NCERT has implemented several strategic measures:

A 20% reduction in textbook prices.

Timely printing to prevent supply gaps.

Enhanced quality of paper and printing with modern technologies.

Expansion of online textbook sales through official e-commerce platforms.

New Social Science Textbook Released

In parallel, NCERT continues to update its curriculum resources. The first part of a new social science textbook, titled ‘Exploring Society: India and Beyond’, was recently launched for the current academic session. A second part is scheduled for release later this year.

The new chapter on India’s colonial period spans from Vasco da Gama’s arrival in the late 1400s to the events of the 1800s, including the pivotal Battle of Plassey in 1757 and the 1857 Rebellion. The content aims to provide students with a nuanced understanding of the socio-economic transformations during British rule, including the exploitation of India’s wealth.

The Ministry stressed that combating piracy remains a top priority to safeguard the accessibility and integrity of educational resources for students nationwide.

[theedustory]

IIT Indore Establishes Two New Schools in Sustainability and Biomedical Engineering to Drive Research and Industry Collaboration

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore has announced the launch of two new academic schools aimed at addressing critical challenges in sustainability and biomedical engineering. These initiatives are in collaboration with the Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta Family Foundation (MFF), further expanding the Foundation's footprint in India’s premier technological institutes.

The two newly established schools — the Mehta Family School of Sustainability and the Mehta Family School of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering — are designed to blend cutting-edge research with industry-driven education. With the introduction of innovative undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes, IIT Indore aims to become a hub for advanced learning and research in these high-impact domains.

Pioneering Programmes in Sustainability and Environmental Economics

Announcing the launch, Prof. Suhas Joshi, Director of IIT Indore, revealed that the School of Sustainability will offer India’s first undergraduate programme integrating environmental economics with sustainable engineering. The curriculum will be interdisciplinary, blending science, technology, and policy to equip students with the skills to tackle global environmental challenges.

The school plans to introduce three postgraduate and a PhD programme in sustainability, with a target of graduating over 400 students and training more than 1,000 professionals through executive-level courses within the next decade. The programmes are structured to promote collaboration with industry, government bodies, academia, and civil society to ensure a holistic learning experience.

Biomedical Engineering with Industry and Clinical Immersion

The Mehta Family School of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering will focus on the development of medical technologies through an interdisciplinary curriculum that merges biology, engineering, and data science. New undergraduate and postgraduate programmes will cover key areas such as medical devices, clinical data analytics, and artificial intelligence applications in healthcare.

Students will benefit from project-based learning and immersive clinical experiences at leading institutions like AIIMS Bhopal and MGM Medical College Indore. Facilities such as Breakerspace and Makerspace labs will provide hands-on exposure to real-world biomedical challenges. The school aims to train 500 students in the next five years, scaling up to over 1,500 students in a decade.

Research Hubs and Biomanufacturing Facilities in Central India

As part of its strategic vision, IIT Indore plans to develop a research hub focusing on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), targeting diseases like tuberculosis. This initiative will involve partnerships with seven universities across Central India, strengthening the region’s research infrastructure.

In addition, IIT Indore is planning a biomanufacturing hub that will focus on smart protein production, enzyme design, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This facility is designed to support projects from mid-level research phases (TRLs 3-7), enabling the translation of academic research into industry-ready technologies.

A Growing Legacy of the Mehta Family Foundation in Indian Academia

The Mehta Family Foundation has been instrumental in establishing specialized academic centres across several IITs, including IIT Madras, IIT Guwahati, IIT Roorkee, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Palakkad. These initiatives span areas such as biosciences, data science, AI, and health sciences, furthering the Foundation’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary research and education in India.

This expansion at IIT Indore aligns with the institute’s vision to position itself as a leader in research-driven education and innovation, preparing graduates for emerging sectors in healthcare technology and sustainable development.

[theedustory]

IIT Guwahati Faces Student Protests Over First Fee Hike in Seven Years, Cites 'Welfare Initiatives'

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati is facing backlash from a section of its postgraduate and PhD students following the institute's decision to implement its first fee hike in seven years. While the administration claims the revision aims to enhance student welfare, protestors argue that the increase is abrupt, excessive, and lacks transparency.

The fee hike, announced earlier this week, has led to peaceful protests that entered their third consecutive day on Wednesday. Students have voiced concerns over steep rises in semester fees, particularly for PhD scholars, claiming the new structure places a disproportionate financial burden on them. For regular PhD students, the semester fee has surged from around ₹34,000 to ₹48,000, surpassing the monthly stipends received by Junior and Senior Research Fellows. The incoming PhD batch faces an even sharper jump, with fees rising from ₹58,000 to ₹91,000 per semester.

Protestors highlight that the revised fees include new components such as fest charges, welfare funds, and significantly increased hostel-related expenses. “The hostel fund alone has gone up from ₹600 to ₹2,200. Students are being charged for activities and events they neither opted for nor benefit from,” said one protesting student. Others pointed out that basic campus amenities, such as hygiene in hostels and maintenance issues, remain neglected despite the fee hike.

Responding to the protests, the IIT Guwahati administration stated that the revision translates to an average increase of ₹8,900 per semester for existing students. The institute justified the hike by citing expanded allocations for student welfare activities, including support for hostel-level events, cultural and sports festivals, and Gymkhana-led initiatives beyond Inter-IIT participation.

In a press release, IIT Guwahati mentioned conducting a four-hour open-house meeting on July 17, where fee-related concerns were addressed. “Students were invited to submit formal representations if they had additional grievances. However, no submissions have been received as of now,” the statement said. The administration further emphasized that the protest group represents a small segment of the overall student body of 8,400, while the elected student representatives are working through official channels to seek adjustments.

Protesting students, however, allege that dialogue with the administration has yielded no substantive outcomes. Some also claim that assurances regarding fee payment flexibility were not honored, with students facing registration issues due to pending fees.

The ongoing protest has seen students boycotting fee payments and suspending certain academic responsibilities like teaching assistantships. Protestors have also expressed frustration over the administration’s lack of direct engagement, particularly after the institute's director reportedly declined to meet them on July 23.

Despite the standoff, the IIT Guwahati administration reiterated its commitment to student welfare and called for concerns to be routed through formal and constructive engagement.