New Delhi, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi continued his attack on the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) even as it began a re-evaluation process of Class 12 answer sheets, where some nine lakh scanned copies have reportedly been shared online with students.

“Seventeen-year-old Sarthak Sidhant has exposed how CBSE manipulated its own selection process to benefit COEMPT, using CBSE’s own documents,” the Congress leader wrote in a post on X on Friday.

“The details in his blog reveal how CBSE changed the RFP to unduly benefit COEMPT, at the cost of TCS,” he stated.

“He has revealed the hollowness of Dharmendra Pradhan ji’s denials. The PM remains silent, as usual. The question is simple: who are they protecting, and why?” Rahul Gandhi repeated, echoing his earlier posts.

He had alleged that the evaluation contract was manipulated to favour a company called Coempt Edu Teck and claimed there was “massive tampering” in CBSE exam results, describing it as a “deliberate conspiracy”.

While the CBSE dismissed Gandhi’s allegations of impropriety in the award of the contract, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders reminded the LoP that the same company had been awarded projects by institutions in Telangana and Karnataka, both governed by the Congress.

On Thursday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a high-level review meeting at the CBSE headquarters in the national capital to review issues related to the evaluation and post-result processes of Class 12 examinations.

Rahul Gandhi also reiterated his demand for a judicial inquiry, writing: “An independent judicial inquiry is now essential to uncover the full extent of this scam.”

He added: “Sarthak’s work shows that India’s Gen Z is brilliant and fearless. And sooner or later, they will find out the full truth.”

Sarthak, a Class 12 student, wrote in his blog that he was among “the 17 lakh students that have been affected by the On Screen Marking (OSM) system” introduced by the CBSE.

Claiming to have investigated CBSE tenders over the past few days, he highlighted what he described as loopholes in the system.

A political slugfest has emerged over alleged irregularities in the digital evaluation system used by the CBSE for NEET and other examinations.

The controversy began with a student, Vedant Shrivastava, whose concerns regarding marks and evaluation transparency raised questions about the integrity of the process.

Vedant applied for a photocopy of his Physics answer sheet on May 19 after receiving what he believed were unexpectedly low marks.

Four days later, he posted on X that the answer sheet emailed to him by the CBSE did not match his handwriting and clearly belonged to another student.

The CBSE later rectified the error and sent him the correct answer sheet, which Vedant acknowledged in a subsequent social media post.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally supervising the situation following the NEET-UG 2026 controversy, the Centre informed the Supreme Court on Friday, as the apex court stressed the need to fix individual accountability within the National Testing Agency (NTA) to prevent recurring lapses in national-level examinations.

A Bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe was hearing a batch of pleas seeking structural reforms in the conduct of the NEET-UG examination, including an immediate transition to computer-based testing (CBT) Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the top court that the Union government was treating the issue with utmost seriousness as it directly impacted the country's youth.

"The Hon'ble Prime Minister is personally supervising this," SG Mehta submitted, adding that the Centre was deeply concerned about safeguarding the interests of students.

The apex court, while expressing concern over repeated controversies surrounding the examination, observed that the problem would persist unless specific responsibility is assigned to individuals handling various aspects of the examination process.

"The real problem won't stop till actual accountability arises. Not in terms of so and so will be liable, it will be effective when we know which individual shoulders the responsibility. Unless you identify the duty holders it will be a diffused obligation," the Justice Narasimha-led Bench remarked.

Calling the recent developments "traumatic" for students and their families, the Supreme Court said the nation cannot afford to disappoint lakhs of aspirants who invest years of effort and emotion preparing for competitive examinations.

"It is very traumatic if this is happening. We cannot disappoint our students. It is not merely the student, it's the family too. It is so much of emotions, love, time, years of study," it observed.

Stressing the need for institutional reforms within the NTA, the apex court observed that the country’s examination bodies should not function in an ad hoc manner.

"The problem is that most institutions are ad hoc. It's a phenomenon that is everywhere in the country. It's not the individual who has the capability but the institution," it said.

Drawing a comparison with the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the Justice Narasimha-led Bench observed that the NTA should learn from institutions that have successfully conducted large-scale examinations without facing similar controversies.

"UPSC has never been in such a situation, you need to learn," the top court remarked.

To strengthen examination systems, it also endorsed the idea of sustained collaboration with academic institutions and domain experts, including IITs, to continuously improve examination management and security protocols.

The Justice Narasimha-led Bench directed that the Ministry of Human Resource Development, instead of the Union Health Ministry, file a comprehensive affidavit detailing measures required to strengthen the NTA's organisational capacity and human resources.

"The endeavour is to ensure that NTA would have the wherewithal, physical and intellectual, to ensure that no incident such as 2024/2026 examination occurs," the apex court said while posting the matter for further hearing in July.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) The CBSE said on Friday its Post-Result Activities portal will now be operational on June 1.​

Once the portal is operational, Class 12 students will be able to file applications on the CBSE portal for verification and re-evaluation of answer books, an official said.​

Verification will include retotalling of marks at a fee of Rs 100, and rechecking will incur a fee of Rs 25 per question.​

In a message on X, the CBSE said, “To ensure a transparent and glitch-free process for verification and re-evaluation of answer books of students who intend to submit their applications on the Post-Result Activities portal, it has been decided that the designated portal will now be operational from 1st June 2026.”​

“This is to ensure the highest standards and protocols of evaluation. Students who may have queries may reach out to the CBSE Tele-Counselling Helpline- 1800 11 8004 and Email- resultcbse2026@cbseshiksha.in,” said the CBSE.​

The option to seek verification and re-evaluation of answer books is available only to students who have already received scanned copies of their evaluated answer books.​

So far, approximately four lakh students have accessed around 11 lakh scanned answer sheets through the portal, the CBSE said.​

Upon receiving an application for re-evaluation, the questions will be reviewed by subject experts, who will update the marks if discrepancies are found.​

Earlier, glitches forced the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to repeatedly extend the deadline for filling revaluation applications and depositing the fee.​

On Thursday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a review meeting at the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) headquarters in New Delhi to review issues related to the evaluation and post-result processes of Class 12 examinations.​

During the meeting, the Minister directed officials to take all necessary measures to resolve the issues faced by students in a timely, transparent, and amicable manner, according to a Ministry of Education statement.​

He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and a student-centric examination system, while assuring students and parents that all genuine concerns would be addressed effectively and expeditiously, it added.​

Minister Pradhan also reviewed the progress of post-result services, focusing on strengthening student support systems, improving the evaluation and monitoring framework, enhancing the CBSE digital platform, and making examination-related services more accessible and efficient for students.​

Nearly 18 lakh students had appeared for the Class 12 examinations this year, which involved around 98 lakh answer sheets and nearly 40 crore scanned pages, officials informed Pradhan.​

Source: IANS

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Bhopal, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has urged the state government to reopen hostels and ashrams meant for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe students, which have remained closed for the past decade.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Singh highlighted the plight of thousands of underprivileged children who have been deprived of educational opportunities since the closure of these facilities in 2016.

Singh referred to concerns raised by Jawar Singh Agarwal, State head of the Ashram Teachers’ Association under the Tribal Welfare Department, who has long advocated for the reopening of these institutions. He noted that the hostels and ashrams, once spread across various districts, were designed to provide accommodation, education, and access to welfare schemes for students from marginalised communities.

Their closure, he argued, has not only disrupted the academic journey of countless children but also stalled their social and educational development. “These ashrams were established with the vision of integrating Scheduled Caste and Tribal students into mainstream education, offering them a chance at a brighter future,” Singh wrote.

The Congress leader stressed that the absence of such facilities has widened the gap between privileged and disadvantaged groups, leaving poor and rural students without the support they need to pursue quality education. Calling the situation “deeply unjust,” Singh appealed to the Chief Minister to direct the concerned department to take immediate action.

He emphasised that reopening the hostels and ashrams would restore access to government welfare schemes and educational institutions, ensuring that children from marginalised backgrounds are not left behind.

Singh expressed confidence that the state government, guided by the principles of social justice and public interest, would respond positively to his appeal. “This is not merely about infrastructure,” he stated, “but about safeguarding the future of thousands of children who deserve equal opportunities.”

The letter has reignited debate on the state’s commitment to inclusive education, with many observers noting that the reopening of these hostels and ashrams could mark a significant step toward bridging social and educational disparities in Madhya Pradesh.

Source: IANS

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Choosing an early learning space is one of the first important decisions parents make for their child. In a busy city, where travel time, safety, teaching quality and daily routines can differ widely, careful evaluation matters. A preschool in Bangalore should support your child’s comfort, curiosity and early social growth in a secure environment.

This blog discloses seven key factors parents should assess before completing enrolment.

Safe and Child-Friendly Infrastructure

A young child spends several active hours in preschool, so the space should feel safe, open and easy to move through. Parents should look beyond colourful walls and observe how the building supports everyday child safety.

• Check whether classrooms have enough space for movement, group learning and quiet activities.
• Look for soft edges, covered electrical points, secure gates and child-safe furniture.
• Ensure play areas are supervised, age-suitable and free from avoidable hazards.
• Ask about entry and exit procedures, visitor checks and emergency readiness.
• Notice whether washrooms are child-sized, clean and easy for children to use independently.

Qualified and Caring Teachers

A preschool teacher needs more than subject knowledge. Young children may cry, refuse food, speak little or need help with simple tasks. A trained and patient teacher can guide such moments with calm words rather than pressure.

During a school visit, notice the teacher’s voice, body language and attention to each child. The class should not feel rushed or harsh. It is also sensible to ask about teacher training, support staff and the number of children in one group.

Age-Appropriate Curriculum and Learning Approach

Preschool learning should fit the child’s age, not adult expectations. Reading and writing can be introduced slowly through stories, sounds, pictures, play and conversation. A good routine gives children time to listen, move, create and try simple tasks.

Ask how the school plans the day. There should be a balance between indoor learning, outdoor play, music, art, rest and group time. Children learn better when activities feel natural and do not turn early childhood into a test-driven schedule.

Cleanliness, Health and Nutrition Standards

Clean spaces reduce many health worries and teach children good daily habits. Check washrooms, drinking water points, classrooms, mats, toys and dining areas. The school should have a clear routine for cleaning items that children touch often.

Health rules also need attention before enrolment. Ask how the school handles fever, minor injuries, medicine instructions and emergency calls. If snacks or meals are served, the food process should be hygienic, simple and mindful of allergies shared by parents.

Location and Transport Convenience

In Bangalore, travel time can change a child’s school day. A centre that looks close on a map may still involve tiring traffic. Check the usual route at school timings and think about the child’s rest, meal and pick-up routine.

Transport, if used, should be reviewed with care. Ask about the vehicle, driver checks, attendant support, seating, pick-up rules and communication during the route. Convenience is helpful only when it is matched with safety and adult supervision.

Focus on Overall Child Development

Preschool is not only about early academics. It is also where children begin learning how to express themselves, work with others and manage simple responsibilities.

• Look for activities that build language, motor skills, creativity and problem-solving.
• Check whether outdoor play is part of the regular routine.
• Ask how the school supports emotional expression and social behaviour.
• Notice whether children are encouraged to speak, ask questions and make choices.
• Understand how festivals, stories and group activities are used to build cultural awareness without overloading the child.

Parent Communication and Transparency

Young children may not explain their day clearly, so parents need regular information from the school. Updates about food, sleep, activities, behaviour and health concerns should be simple, timely and easy to understand.

Before paying fees, ask about policies, holidays, timings, safety rules, meetings and emergency contact methods. Clear communication helps parents trust the school. It also makes it easier to notice small concerns before they become larger problems.

Conclusion

Selecting a preschool in Bangalore should be a careful and balanced decision. The right choice is not decided by colourful classrooms alone. Safety, teachers, curriculum, hygiene, travel, child development and communication all need equal attention.

A visit, a few direct questions and close observation can reveal how the school works each day. When the environment feels safe, respectful and child-centred, children are more likely to settle with confidence and ease.

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Bhuj, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a bid to transform 11 industrial training institutes (ITIs) across Kutch through industry-linked skilling and employment-focused training, Adani Skills & Education (ASE) on Friday formalised two MoUs with the Gujarat government.

ASE, the Adani Group’s capability-building platform which is focused on creating scalable talent ecosystems aligned to industry and enterprise demand, said the initiative aims to create local employment opportunities, reduce talent migration and build industry-ready talent pipelines for renewable energy, logistics and infrastructure sectors.

Cabinet Minister of Labour, Skill Development and Employment and Rural Development, Kunvarjibhai Bavaliya; Minister of State for Labour, Skill Development & Employment Kantilal Amrutiya, senior leaders and officials attended the event, along with senior leadership from the Adani Group, faculty members and students from all 11 government ITIs of Kutch, according to a statement.

Bavaliya emphasised the importance of industry-aligned skilling in building a self-reliant workforce. “Our key objective is to provide global-level technical training to the youth and ensure every young person becomes self-reliant under the Skill India mission. Skilled youth are the foundation of a prosperous nation,” he said.

Amrutiya encouraged students to leverage technical education opportunities to build meaningful careers. “Skilled youth are the true strength of our nation and can contribute significantly to India’s economic growth, national progress and nation building,” he said.

The initiative aims to reduce talent migration and strengthen the region’s skilled workforce, ensuring that Kutch’s growth is increasingly powered by local talent.

The 10-point agenda envisioned by ASE for transforming ITIs is now being referred to as a “Gujarat Model” in other states across the country.

Robin Bhowmik, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), ASE, said Kutch remains central to ASE’s long-term skilling vision.

“Kutch is our karma bhoomi and we remain deeply invested in its future. Through our partnership with the Government of Gujarat and ITIs across the region, we aim to build a continuously skilled, industry-ready workforce capable of contributing across sectors and supporting long-term regional transformation,” he said.

Through its ‘Skill2Employ’ approach, ASE combines classroom learning with real-world operating exposure. Leveraging simulations, Centres of Excellence (CoEs), TTT programmes and globally benchmarked curricula, it aims to create a first-day, first-hour productive workforce.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday promised free travel in DTC buses for all students appearing in the NEET-UG 2026 retest on June 21.

Showing a valid admit card for an exam centre will allow the students to travel in public transport buses for free, said an official.

In a message on X, the Chief Minister said, “To support candidates appearing for NEET (UG) 2026 on June 21, the Delhi government will provide free travel in all DTC buses upon presentation of a valid admit card.”

“No student should face inconvenience on a day that holds such importance for their future. My best wishes to all NEET aspirants. May their hard work and determination lead them to success,” said the Chief Minister.

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate 2026, or the qualifying exam to join an MBBS course held earlier on May 3, was cancelled by the National Testing Agency over allegations of irregularities. The CBI is investigating the matter.

In another development, the Delhi Chief Minister warned officials that there is no place for negligence and issued directions to improve public facilities at the sub-registrar’s office in Rohini.

After a surprise visit to the office, the Chief Minister said, “Government offices are centres for public convenience. It is our responsibility to provide citizens with a respectable, clean, and well-organised environment.”

In a message on X about her visit, she said, “Instructions have been given to address all shortcomings on a priority basis and ensure concrete improvements in the arrangements. There is no place for negligence.”

She said, “Today, an unannounced inspection was conducted at Ambedkar Bhawan, Rohini, of the e-Sabha Registrar Office of the Revenue Department, VI-A (Model Town, Pitampura) and VI-C (Rohini). During the inspection, several shortcomings were found in cleanliness, toilets, lighting arrangements, seating facilities, and other citizen amenities.”

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Friday made fresh allegations of discrepancies in the CBSE’s process for awarding a contract for the On-screen Marking Scheme (OSM), seeking a judicial inquiry into the decision to pick an allegedly ineligible EdTech company for the task.

Sharing a news clipping on social media, Gandhi countered attacks on him by BJP Ministers for raising the issue and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence and “inaction against the Education Minister”.

In the post, which came a day after Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan owned up responsibility for the glitches in the CBSE evaluation system for Class 12, the Congress leader made the insinuation that the contract for OSM was not awarded.

Accusing the government of showing unnecessary haste to implement the OSM system from this year, Gandhi alleged that a company called COEMPT was awarded the contract instead of TCS and several terms were diluted to favour the former.

“Pradhan ji and CBSE say ‘due process was followed’. That is not an answer; that is not accountability. The question is whether the contract was honestly awarded to the best company which could do the job correctly. The futures of 18.5 lakh children were handed to a company that could only qualify after the rules were bent for it,” said Gandhi.

“To the BJP Ministers attacking me for asking questions - I have, from day one, demanded an independent judicial probe. Expand it from CBSE to every contract awarded to COEMPT. Our youth deserve the truth,” said Gandhi.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the Union Education Minister have admitted glitches in the case of some students and promised to improve the system.

The case of a Class 12 student who was mistakenly sent another candidate’s Physics answer sheet sparked a nationwide debate on transparency and fairness in digital evaluation, raising wider concerns about systemic reliability.

In its defence, the CBSE on Wednesday rejected Gandhi’s allegations of impropriety over its contract with a particular education technology firm.

“It is erroneous, misleading, and not based on facts,” the CBSE posted on social media platform X.

“CBSE has followed the General Financial Rules protocols scrupulously in awarding the contract to the agency. CBSE floated the RFP for Digital Evaluation of Answer Books for Board Exams 2026 on the Central Public Procurement portal on August 28, 2025, and awarded the contract to the qualified bidder,” it stated.

Source: IANS

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Imphal, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Friday highlighted the importance of sports and cultural activities, saying that sports teach the values of perseverance, cooperation, and the graceful acceptance of both victory and defeat.

The Governor, along with his wife Jyoti Bhalla, graced the grand finale of the NCC Ekta Cup 2026 at the Artificial Turf Ground, Lamlong Thongkhong in Imphal. Addressing the gathering, he said that cultural programmes remind people of the richness of India’s diversity and help strengthen the values of respect, harmony, and unity.

Bhalla expressed happiness at being part of the concluding function of the first-ever NCC Ekta Cup organised in Manipur. He observed that the tournament had showcased not only sporting excellence and healthy competition but also discipline, teamwork, friendship and the spirit of national integration.

The Governor stated that the word “Ekta” signifies unity and remarked that the tournament had truly reflected its noble meaning by bringing together young cadets and students from diverse backgrounds.

Bhalla, who earlier served as Union Home Secretary, highlighted the role of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) in shaping disciplined, confident and patriotic citizens. He said that initiatives such as the NCC Ekta Cup contribute significantly towards preparing the youth to succeed in life and serve society and the nation with commitment and dedication.

The Under-17 Boys' Football Tournament was organised by the NCC Group Headquarters, Imphal, under the NCC Northeast Region Headquarters in Shillong.

The event began with spectacular cultural and musical performances presented by local artists Manka Mayanglambam and John Oinam, respectively.

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, who holds the Forest, Environment and Climate Change portfolio, senior NCC officers, cadets and students attended the event. The final match was played between NCC and RFA, with NCC registering a 1-0 victory.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Former ISRO Chairman K. Radhakrishnan has informed the Supreme Court that a majority of the recommendations made by the high-level expert committee constituted after the NEET-UG 2024 controversy have either been implemented or are under active execution, with several reforms already operational in the conduct of NEET examinations.

In an affidavit filed before the apex court, Radhakrishnan, who headed both the High-Level Committee of Experts (HLCE) on NTA reforms and the subsequent High-Powered Steering Committee (HPSC) monitoring implementation of its recommendations, said the reforms were aimed at ensuring “transparent, smooth and fair conduct of examinations” by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

The affidavit was filed pursuant to the Supreme Court’s May 25 direction asking him to apprise the top court of the status of implementation of the panel’s recommendations.

Radhakrishnan said the HLCE, constituted by the Union Ministry of Education in June 2024 following the NEET-UG controversy, held extensive consultations with stakeholders, including state governments, police authorities, technology experts, academicians, student groups and global testing agencies. “The HLCE also consulted stakeholders through the MyGov portal and received 37,144 responses from students, parents/guardians, teachers/academicians, etc.,” the affidavit stated.

According to the affidavit, the committee submitted its report on October 21, 2024, making 101 recommendations covering examination reforms, data security, institutional restructuring of NTA, examination integrity, mental health support and technological safeguards. “The HLCE made a total of 101 recommendations with short-term, medium-term and long-term perspective,” it said.

The affidavit stated that a High-Powered Steering Committee was subsequently constituted on November 14, 2024, to oversee implementation of the recommendations and has been continuously monitoring progress through periodic reviews and presentations by NTA officials.

Highlighting measures already put in place, Radhakrishnan said state governments are now actively involved in the conduct of NEET examinations through State-Level Coordination Committees (SLCCs) and District-Level Coordination Committees (DLCCs). “States are now actively involved in the conduct of NEET(UG) Examination as recommended by the HLCE. State Level Coordination Committees (SLCCs) and District Level Coordination Committees (DLCCs) are functional and played a key role during NEET (UG) 2025 and 2026 Examinations,” the affidavit said.

It added that more than 99.5 per cent of examination centres for NEET-UG 2026 were government institutions and that city coordinators were drawn from government schools and Kendriya Vidyalayas.

On strengthening of the NTA, the affidavit said the government had created 16 new senior-level posts and deployed domain-specific experts from institutions such as IITs, the University Grants Commission (UGC) and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS).

Radhakrishnan also informed the top court that Aadhaar-based biometric authentication has been introduced for NEET-UG candidates as part of the first phase of the proposed “DIGI-EXAM” system.

“HPSC noted that NTA introduced Aadhaar-based biometric authentication for candidates appearing in NEET(UG) Examination as part of first phase for implementation of DIGI-EXAM system,” the affidavit stated.

It further recorded that a multi-layer frisking mechanism has been introduced, CCTV surveillance has been expanded across examination centres, and mobile jammers have been installed to prevent electronic malpractice.

The affidavit added that data analytics tools are now being used to identify suspicious patterns and anomalies in candidate responses, while the grievance redressal system is being strengthened through artificial intelligence and machine learning-based functionalities.

On the issue of examination format, Radhakrishnan said the expert committee had recommended a gradual transition of NEET-UG from pen-and-paper mode to a computer-based testing (CBT) format, along with multi-session and multi-stage testing.

“On the structure of NEET-UG, the HLCE had recommended a transition from Pen-and-Paper to Computer-Based Testing,” the affidavit stated. However, it clarified that such recommendations would have to be implemented in consultation with the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which is the nodal ministry for NEET-UG.

The affidavit also said that several long-term reforms, including educational testing research, information security upgrades, AI-based monitoring systems and harmonisation of entrance examinations, are being implemented in a phased manner under the committee’s supervision.

The affidavit comes in the backdrop of petitions seeking sweeping reforms in the conduct of NEET-UG following the 2026 paper leak controversy.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) The National Testing Agency (NTA) on Friday told the Supreme Court that its decision to cancel the NEET-UG 2026 examination and order a re-test was taken “in the interest of students” and to preserve public confidence in the national examination system.

In an affidavit filed before the apex court in the batch of petitions seeking reforms in the conduct of NEET-UG, the NTA said the cancellation of the May 3 examination and referral of the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) demonstrated the seriousness with which it viewed examination integrity.

“It is respectfully submitted that the cancellation of the NEET (UG) 2026 examination conducted on 03.05.2026, and the reference of the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on 12.05.2026 for investigation, are themselves illustrative of the seriousness with which the Answering Respondent (NTA) and the Government of India view examination integrity,” the affidavit stated.

“The decision was taken in the interest of students and in recognition of the trust on which the national examination system rests,” it added.

The affidavit was filed in compliance with the Supreme Court’s May 25 order directing the NTA to place on record the status of implementation of recommendations made by the high-powered committee headed by former ISRO Chairman K. Radhakrishnan following the NEET-UG 2024 controversy.

According to the NTA, the examination held on May 3 was conducted at 5,432 centres across 552 cities in India and 14 overseas cities, with more than 22 lakh candidates appearing for the test under a strengthened security framework involving biometric verification, AI-assisted CCTV surveillance and mobile jammers.

The affidavit said the NTA received inputs regarding alleged malpractice on the evening of May 7 and escalated the matter to central agencies the following morning for verification. Based on the findings shared by investigative agencies, the examination was cancelled and the matter referred to the CBI for a comprehensive probe.

Defending its handling of the situation, the NTA told the apex court that it has acted “in good faith, with due diligence and in accordance with law” to protect both the integrity of the examination process and the interests of genuine aspirants.

The affidavit said all necessary cooperation is being extended to the CBI in its ongoing investigation.

The NTA further informed the Supreme Court that the re-examination scheduled for June 21 would be conducted under an even more robust security architecture, with enhanced coordination involving Chief Secretaries, Directors General of Police, District Magistrates, the Department of Posts and other authorities.

It added that extensive reforms recommended by the Radhakrishnan committee have either been implemented or are at advanced stages of implementation, including Aadhaar-based biometric authentication, AI-powered CCTV monitoring, installation of mobile jammers at all examination centres, multi-tier oversight mechanisms and institutional coordination with state and district authorities.

The NTA also reiterated that the high-level expert committee had recommended a transition of NEET-UG from pen-and-paper mode to a computer-based test (CBT) format and said the shift would be implemented from the next examination cycle in consultation with the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Earlier this week, the Supreme Court had issued notices to the Centre, the NTA and other authorities on pleas seeking structural reforms in the conduct of NEET-UG and an immediate transition to CBT mode, observing that despite lessons from the 2024 controversy, concerns regarding examination integrity had resurfaced.

When the matter was taken up for hearing on Friday, it was passed over as Solicitor General Tushar Mehta was appearing before another Bench.

Source: IANS

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Chandigarh, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday announced that master’s degree and PhD programmes would be introduced in post-harvest management, plant pest control and plant diseases.

He also dedicated 14 Horticulture Science Centres of Maharana Pratap Horticulture University and said the centres would play a significant role in delivering the latest technologies, quality planting material and scientific guidance to farmers.

The Chief Minister was addressing the inaugural session of a national conference organised by Maharana Pratap Horticulture University and the Lieutenant Amit Memorial Foundation in Karnal.

The conference was based on the theme: “Strategic Paradigm of Quality Seeds and Planting Material for Horticultural Crops in Amritkaal”.

During the event, the Chief Minister honoured horticulture scientists and progressive farmers with shields, shawls and certificates of appreciation.

University Vice-Chancellor Suresh Kumar Malhotra also honoured the Chief Minister, MLAs and other guests by presenting them with a statue of Maharana Pratap.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said India was the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world and produced more than 360 million tonnes of horticultural produce annually.

“Today, India is among the world leaders in the production of fruits such as mango, banana, guava and pomegranate, as well as vegetables including potato and onion. However, despite high production, the country continues to suffer major economic losses due to deficiencies in quality, grading, disease-free planting material and post-harvest management,” he said.

The Chief Minister said the foundation stone of the main campus of Maharana Pratap Horticulture University was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 9, 2024.

“In such a short time, the university has achieved remarkable milestones. Whether in education, research or farmer services, the institution has established a distinct identity. The technologies developed here, training programmes and continuous interaction with farmers are giving new energy and momentum to Haryana’s horticulture revolution,” he said.

Saini said PM Modi had envisioned the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 for the nation and that the vision was not limited to economic development alone.

“It is a vision of self-reliant agriculture, nutritional security, scientific innovation and prosperity for crores of farmers,” he added.

The Chief Minister said the world now recognised that quality seeds and planting material could increase agricultural productivity by 15 to 25 per cent.

He stressed the need to focus on quality planting material, scientific management and modern supply chains.

To increase farmers’ income, a target had been set to double the horticulture sector and triple production by 2030.

The state has established 13 centres of excellence for horticulture.

He said that under the Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana, protected prices had been fixed for 21 horticultural crops, including fruits and vegetables.

Source: IANS

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Patna, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Bihar Rural Works Department Minister Ashok Choudhary launched a sharp attack on Opposition parties over several political and contemporary issues, including the Election Commission controversy, the NEET paper leak case, illegal settlements in border areas, and allegations of human trafficking, on Thursday.

Commenting on the ongoing controversy surrounding the election process and the Election Commission of India (ECI), Ashok Choudhary, who visited the JD(U) office in Patna, accused Opposition parties of creating unnecessary confusion among the public.

He stated that attempts were being made to falsely portray the Election Commission as working under the influence of a particular political party, calling such allegations completely baseless.

Taking a swipe at the INDIA bloc for projecting Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi as the face of the upcoming elections, Choudhary remarked that such a move would ultimately help the NDA secure an even larger victory margin.

The minister also strongly backed Amit Shah regarding statements linked to the demolition of illegal settlements in border regions.

According to Choudhary, porous border areas often witness illegal infiltration and unauthorised settlements, making strict action necessary from a national security standpoint.

Countering remarks made by Tejashwi Yadav on alleged human trafficking issues, Ashok Choudhary said the Opposition should provide concrete information rather than make generalised accusations.

He stated that if Tejashwi Yadav possesses credible information, he should formally communicate it to the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, or the Director General of Police so that action can be taken.

Speaking on the nationwide controversy surrounding the NEET examination paper leak, Choudhary termed the incident deeply unfortunate and said such acts amount to playing with children's futures.

He emphasised the need for greater transparency and stricter systems in competitive examinations to protect deserving students.

While responding to discussions surrounding the Madras High Court ruling related to cow slaughter during Bakrid, the minister advocated mutual respect among communities.

Referring to his visits to the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, he said that, despite not being a Buddhist, he respectfully follows Buddhist customs and rituals whenever he visits the temple.

He stressed that all communities should respect one another’s religious sentiments.

Ashok Choudhary also congratulated Bihar’s emerging cricket talent, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, for achieving success at a very young age.

Calling it a proud moment for Bihar, the minister expressed hope that the young cricketer would continue breaking records and bring national and international recognition to the state.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Thursday inaugurated hostel facilities for boys and girls at the Maa Umiya Dham campus in Ahmedabad and said the institution would strengthen educational opportunities for students while reflecting the social and economic progress achieved by the Patidar community.

The hostel complex, managed by Shri Umiya Mataji Sansthan of Unjha, has been developed to accommodate around 1,600 students.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Cabinet Minister Rushikesh Patel attended the inauguration ceremony.

Extending his wishes to the Patidar community for establishing modern educational facilities at what he described as a prime location in the city, HM Shah said the transformation brought about by the community within society was “remarkable”.

“The progress achieved by the Patidar community of Gujarat is unparalleled,” HM Shah said.

He said the development of Gujarat and the progress of the Patidar community had advanced together over the years, with the community making a significant contribution to the state’s growth.

HM Shah added that owing to its “simplicity and inclusive outlook”, the Patidar community had earned acceptance and respect across the country and abroad.

Praising the community’s values of “sacrifice, penance, hard work, honesty and patriotism”, HM Shah said: “Patidars today hold a prominent position in sectors including agriculture, education, textiles, pharmaceuticals, diamonds and real estate.”

HM Shah said a Demography Change Commission had been constituted to study what he termed “unnatural changes in population ratios”, examine the reasons behind such changes and implement corrective programmes wherever those changes were found to be linked to infiltration.

He further said that under BJP governance, the country had witnessed “transformative changes” ranging from the economy to internal security.

“Under the leadership of PM Modi, terrorism and Naxalism have been effectively eradicated across the country over the past 10 years,” HM Shah said.

Chief Minister Patel, addressing the gathering, said the hostel inaugurated at Umiya Dham Sola would become “a source of new direction and inspiration for society”.

Congratulating the organisers on the inauguration of the hostel building, Patel said PM Modi often stated that “a society that gives priority to education consistently progresses and attains new heights”.

“The Patidar community has successfully preserved its traditions while embracing education and modernity,” he said.

Patel said the development of a grand temple, student hostel and party plot together at the Umiya Dham campus would create a confluence of faith, education and social infrastructure.

He described the complex as a reflection of “the transformative change that society and collective organisational strength can bring to the field of education”.

Paying tribute to Veer Savarkar on his birth anniversary, the Chief Minister said: “Savarkar laid the foundation of cultural nationalism while harmoniously embracing modernity and tradition. Over the past 12 years, PM Modi has worked towards placing national interest above all through cultural nationalism and pride in the nation’s rich heritage.”

He further said that under the leadership of PM Modi and during Amit Shah’s tenure as Union Home Minister, India was emerging as “a strong, secure and globally trusted nation”.

The Chief Minister also described HM Shah as “one of the country’s most successful Home Ministers”

“The Home Department has achieved significant milestones in internal security, law and order, border management and national unity through measures including the eradication of Naxalism and the abrogation of Article 370 from Kashmir,” he said.

Referring to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, Patel appealed to people to follow and support the Prime Minister’s appeal made in the national interest.

During the programme, HM Shah felicitated donors associated with the institution and unveiled the Taam Patra, a commemorative copper plate, along with the Hundi, a donation collection box.

Cabinet Minister Rushikesh Patel, former Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, former Union Minister and MP Parshottam Rupala, MLA and institution president Babu Patel, and Ramesh Patel also addressed the gathering.

State Minister Kantilal Amrutiya, local MPs and MLAs, leaders of the Patidar community, donors and a large number of community members were also present at the event.

Source: IANS

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Surat, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) A modern library established in a tribal-dominated village in Gujarat’s Surat district under the state government’s ‘Vatan Prem Yojana’ has emerged as a major educational support centre for students from nearly 20 surrounding villages preparing for competitive examinations.

The library, located in Nani Bhatlav village of Bardoli taluka, was initially started in 2021 during the Covid-19 pandemic by the village’s young sarpanch, Ankit Chaudhary, in a dilapidated community hall using his own resources.

The initiative aimed to provide study facilities to local youth, many of whom had limited access to educational infrastructure.

The project later received financial support under the state government’s ‘Vatan Prem Yojana’, through which non-resident Indian (NRI) Pratap Pandya donated Rs seven lakh.

The state government also provided a grant of Rs 10.5 lakh, after which the library was shifted to a newly constructed two-storey building.

The library now operates around the clock and provides free access to books, seating, and WiFi for online studies.

Students from nearby villages regularly use the facility to prepare for government recruitment and other competitive examinations.

Nishchal Chaudhary, a student from nearby Vadhvaniya village, said the library had become an important resource for aspirants preparing for government jobs.

“I come from the nearby village of Vadhvaniya. I have been preparing for a government job for the past year. The library is extremely useful. Since I joined, the library has remained open 24 hours a day, with no charges. No fee is collected for it, and whatever books we need for studying are made available to us,” he said.

Students said the library also conducts competitive test sessions to familiarise candidates with examination conditions.

Shweta Chaudhary, another student using the facility, said, “If we talk about facilities in the library, there is a 24-hour free seating facility available for both girls and boys. Whatever books are needed are made available whenever required. Competitive tests related to various exams are also conducted here. The same experience that we get while sitting in an examination hall is recreated here as well.”

According to village sarpanch Ankit Chaudhary, the library currently has a seating capacity of 123 students and receives visitors from around 15 to 20 villages on a regular basis.

“At present, our library has a capacity of 123 students. Students from around 15 to 20 villages regularly come to our library. We have provided facilities like WiFi and all the required books for them. Since the students’ examination centres are located as far as Surat, Ahmedabad, and Gandhinagar, we also arrange transportation for them from the library side,” he said.

More than 100 students visit the library every day, according to local authorities.

A hostel is also being constructed for students travelling from distant villages so that they can stay in the village and continue their preparations without disruption.

Several students who studied at the library over the past few years have secured jobs in the government and private sectors after clearing different competitive examinations.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced on Thursday that the Indian Air Force (IAF) will be deployed to transport question papers for the upcoming NEET UG re-examination on June 21, citing logistical challenges and unpredictable weather conditions in June.

In a firm push to make the examination process completely leak-proof and secure, the government has decided to bring in the IAF for the critical task of ferrying sensitive documents.

Pradhan emphasised that the Centre is adopting a comprehensive “whole-of-government” strategy, coordinating closely with the Defence Ministry, Home Ministry, Postal Department, and state governments to ensure the smooth and transparent conduct of the examination.

“Earlier, the Postal Department played a major role along with the Home Ministry and the states. We will continue this collaborative approach, but now the Indian Air Force will also step in to ensure question papers reach examination centres safely and on time,” Pradhan said.

The decision follows a high-level meeting held earlier in the day involving Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

The meeting focused on bolstering security measures and preventing any possibility of paper leaks.

Pradhan assured that the government is fully prepared and committed to conducting a free, fair, and credible examination, leaving no room for compromise on security or efficiency.

Source: IANS

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Jaipur, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rajasthan Governor and Chancellor of Universities, Haribhau Bagde, on Thursday removed Prof. (Dr.) Devswaroop, the first Vice-Chancellor of Baba Amte Divyang University, Jaipur, and the acting Vice-Chancellor of Vishwakarma Skill University, has been removed from his post with immediate effect.

Lok Bhavan Rajasthan, on its X handle, said: “Governor Shri Haribhau Bagde has issued orders to immediately remove Vice-Chancellor Prof. Devswaroop from his position with immediate effect in the case of irregularities in appointments made arbitrarily, bypassing university rules and provisions.

“These orders have been issued in consultation with the state government.”

The action was taken in consultation with the state government following the findings of a high-level inquiry into alleged irregularities in appointments made during Dr. Devswaroop’s tenure as Vice-Chancellor of Rajasthan University.

According to officials, Dr. Devswaroop allegedly committed serious irregularities in recruitment processes by disregarding University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations and established university procedures to favour certain candidates.

The decision follows the submission of an inquiry committee report that reportedly found evidence of procedural violations and irregularities.

The inquiry was initiated after a complaint filed by an academic, who alleged serious irregularities and discrimination in the selection process.

Taking cognisance of the allegations, Governor Haribhau Bagde constituted a three-member high-level inquiry committee headed by noted educationist and Kota University Vice-Chancellor Dr Bhagwati Prasad Saraswat.

The committee examined recruitment documents, interview assessment sheets, and records of selections carried out during Dr. Devswaroop’s tenure at Rajasthan University.

It also reviewed university records, interview procedures, and compliance with UGC regulations.

Following a detailed examination, the committee submitted its report to Raj Bhavan.

The inquiry report also raised concerns regarding compliance with reservation policies and UGC guidelines.

Based on these findings, Raj Bhavan initiated disciplinary action, resulting in Dr. Devswaroop's immediate removal from his current position.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Student organisation Krantikari Yuva Sangathan (KYS) on Thursday condemned what it described as technical failures and evaluation-related discrepancies in the On-Screen Marking (OSM) evaluation system introduced by the CBSE this year.

In a statement issued by KYS Delhi State Committee Member Bhim Kumar, the organisation demanded an independent and transparent investigation into the CBSE's evaluation crisis.

Meanwhile, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a high-level meeting at the CBSE Headquarters in New Delhi to review issues related to the evaluation and post-result processes of the CBSE Class 12 examinations and assured strict action against any lapses.

The meeting was attended by Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, Sanjay Kumar; CBSE Chairperson Rahul Singh; Director, IIT Madras V. Kamakoti; Director, IIT Kanpur; senior officials from the Ministry of Education and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS); and representatives of public sector banks including SBI, Indian Bank, Bank of Baroda and Canara Bank.

During the meeting, the Minister directed officials to take all necessary measures to ensure that issues faced by students are resolved in a timely, transparent and student-friendly manner.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability and a student-centric examination system, while assuring students and parents that all genuine concerns would be addressed effectively and expeditiously.

The Minister reviewed the progress of post-result services with a focus on strengthening student support systems, improving the evaluation and monitoring framework, enhancing the CBSE digital platform, and making examination-related services more accessible and efficient for students, said a statement.

The Minister was apprised that nearly 18 lakh students appeared for the Class 12 examinations this year, involving around 98 lakh answer sheets and nearly 40 crore scanned pages. So far, approximately four lakh students have accessed around 11 lakh scanned answer sheets through the portal.

Reiterating that students’ interests remain the Government’s foremost priority, Pradhan assured strict action against any lapses and stated that no negligence, whether within or outside the system, would be tolerated.

The Minister also took note of reports related to login access issues, heavy server load and payment-related difficulties on the post-examination services portal.

An expert technical team comprising professors from IIT Madras and specialists in digital systems has been tasked with reviewing portal stability, server capacity, login management and payment gateway integration to ensure seamless and uninterrupted services for students, said a statement.

Source: IANS

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Chennai, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister P. Viswanathan on Thursday strongly asserted that the rights of the state would never be compromised under the newly formed TVK-led government, amid a political controversy over the authority to appoint Vice Chancellors to state-run universities.

The Minister’s clarification came a day after his remarks in Madurai triggered sharp reactions from several political parties, including the DMK, the VCK, the CPI, and the PMK.

During an interaction on Wednesday, Viswanathan had reportedly said that the new government was not bound to continue every policy introduced by the previous administration, particularly those related to the Chief Minister functioning as Chancellor of universities.

His statement sparked criticism from opposition parties and alliance leaders, who accused the government of diluting Tamil Nadu’s long-standing stand on protecting states' autonomy in higher education matters.

Addressing reporters on Thursday, Viswanathan clarified that his comments had been misunderstood and reiterated that safeguarding Tamil Nadu’s rights remained a top priority for the government.

"Our stand is very clear. The rights of the state are of utmost importance. As an MLA, as a Minister, and as a citizen of Tamil Nadu, I can assertively state that we will not compromise on this," he said.

He further stated that the government remained committed to protecting the rights and interests of every citizen of Tamil Nadu and stressed that there was no intention to surrender any constitutional or administrative powers of the state.

Explaining his earlier remarks, the Minister said the final decision on the issue would be taken by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, after consultations with officials of the Higher Education Department and Cabinet colleagues.

"The Chief Minister will take a final call after detailed discussions with the department and other Ministers. What I made was only a general comment and not a response in any specific context," he said.

The controversy centres around the power to appoint Vice Chancellors in State universities. During the previous DMK regime, the Tamil Nadu Assembly had passed amendments to various university Acts transferring the authority to appoint Vice Chancellors from the Governor to the Chief Minister, a move projected as part of the state’s larger fight for federal rights and autonomy.

"We are a new government. I do not want to go into the details of the issue now, but neither the Congress nor the TVK will ever surrender the rights of the people of Tamil Nadu," Viswanathan added.

Source: IANS

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Pune, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) The National Defence Academy (NDA) is set to conduct its 150th Passing Out parade (POP) at the iconic tri-services academy campus at Pune’s Khadakwasla on May 30.

The grand ceremony will mark the commissioning of 355 cadets into the Indian Armed Forces.

Ahead of the historic and momentous occasion, a full dress-rehearsal was conducted at the same iconic grounds in Khadakwasla, setting the momentum for the grand ceremony.

The dress rehearsal saw a spectacular display of fly past by Su-30 MKI fighter jets, Sarang Team and Akashganga.

As the full dress rehearsal began this morning, the skies above Khadakwasla roared to life, as series of jets turned the sky into a dazzling aerial spectacle.

The Full Dress Rehearsal Parade at the Khetarpal Parade Ground was reviewed by the Commandant of the National Defence Academy - Vice Admiral Anil Jaggi, AVSM, NM.

The rehearsal ensured flawless coordination for the final display at the iconic Khetarpal Parade Ground on Saturday.

Prior to the Spring Term 2026 Passing Out Parade, a convocation ceremony of the course will also be held on May 29 at Habibullah Hall in the prestigious academy.

The PoP will be reviewed by the Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, who will attend the ceremony as the Reviewing Officer.

The highlight of the upcoming parade will be a breathtaking fly-past, showcasing the precision and aerial prowess of the Indian Armed Forces.

The aerial display at the event will feature military might on display, including:

Su-30 MKI Fighter Jets, bringing thunderous speed and precision to the skies

Chetak Helicopters, showcasing trusted rotary-wing formation flying capabilities.

Sarang Helicopter Aerobatics Team, the world-renowned team flying their Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) in thrilling, tight formations.

Akashganga Skydiving Team, executing precision landings to leave the audience spellbound.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday interacted with government school principals and Education Department officials on the World Menstrual Hygiene Day, vowing to make institutions safer and more sensitive for girls.

During the virtual interaction, the Chief Minister announced several major policy decisions under the ‘Menstrual Health Matters’ campaign, said a statement.

“As part of the initiative, a special advisory will be issued to ensure regular maintenance and timely refilling of sanitary pad vending machines installed in government schools, government offices, public toilets and Arogya Mandirs,” she said during the meeting held through a video conference.

The entire system is now being centralised to ensure that every girl in Delhi has access to high-quality biodegradable sanitary pads. The government, she said, will focus on providing safe, hygienic and quality-tested sanitary products.

In addition, large-scale awareness programmes will be conducted across Delhi through ASHA and Anganwadi workers so that accurate information related to menstrual health reaches every household, she said.

To strengthen awareness at the school level, menstrual health education for Classes 6 to 9 will be made more robust and effective in the curriculum, said a statement.

She stressed the need to create an environment in schools where girls can openly share their concerns and receive support to overcome mental stress.

Expressing concern over the condition of toilet blocks in some schools, she said complaints had been received regarding poor sanitation and damaged facilities.

She directed that all school toilets be kept clean, that broken doors and other damaged infrastructure be repaired promptly, and that school funds or coordination with concerned officials be used to resolve such issues without delay.

Chief Minister Gupta said girls would also be made aware of important health issues beyond menstruation, including PCOS, anaemia, cervical cancer, menopause and HPV vaccination. Regular health sessions will be organised at Arogya Mandirs, where doctors and trained staff will interact directly with women and girl students.

Education Minister Ashish Sood said menstrual health is not merely a health issue, but also one linked to dignity, awareness and self-confidence.

He said it is the responsibility of the Education Department to continue awareness campaigns in schools on a subject that has traditionally received limited public discussion.

He also recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had raised the issue during his Independence Day address from the Red Fort and remains deeply conscious of the matter.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Amid the controversy surrounding the CBSE’s On-Screen Marking (OSM) system, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday assured that strict action would be taken if any deliberate negligence or wrongdoing was found in the process. He also criticised the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, saying the Congress leader was acting out of frustration following repeated electoral defeats.

Speaking to reporters in Delhi, Pradhan said the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) had undertaken a massive digital evaluation exercise involving nearly 40 crore scanned pages.

“Out of the 17 lakh students who appeared for the examination, CBSE has maintained answer scripts of around 98 lakh copies. Each answer sheet contains nearly 40 pages, amounting to approximately 40 crore scanned pages. For the first time, CBSE has conducted the evaluation process through On-Screen Marking (OSM),” the minister said.

Calling OSM a progressive and student-centric initiative, Pradhan said many universities and educational institutions across the world are adopting similar systems to ensure transparency and ease of access for students.

“This system enables students to access their answer sheets and resolve any doubts regarding their marks. OSM has been introduced keeping students’ interests in mind. However, some shortcomings have emerged, and I take responsibility for them. We will ensure that no student’s queries go unanswered,” he added.

Pradhan further stated that IIT Kanpur and IIT Madras had been roped in to address technical and operational issues related to the system.

“We have requested expert teams from IIT Kanpur and IIT Madras to examine the matter. The teams are actively working on resolving the issues. I also requested the Finance Minister to streamline the payment process and organise the payment gateway. The CBSE portal has now been integrated with payment gateways of four public sector banks -- SBI, Indian Bank, Bank of Baroda, and Canara Bank,” he said.

The minister reiterated that accountability would be fixed if any intentional lapses were discovered.

“IIT professor groups are handling the matter. We are taking responsibility for whatever has happened. If any intentional wrongdoing is found, we will not spare those responsible. In a democracy, everyone is accountable, and we are not shying away from answering questions or accepting accountability,” he said.

Responding to Rahul Gandhi’s criticism over alleged discrepancies in the CBSE examination process, Pradhan accused the Congress leader of opposing every reform initiative undertaken by the government.

“CBSE has already issued its clarification and fulfilled its responsibilities. The process was carried out in accordance with the Government of India’s procurement policy. If any negligence is found, we will take strict action,” he said.

“As far as Rahul Gandhi is concerned, he appears to be in a different mindset due to continuous electoral losses, which have led to frustration. He has opposed everything -- whether it is the SIR process, EVMs, or Digital India. He is not aligned with India’s scientific and technological progress,” Pradhan added.

The minister also appealed to political parties not to politicise issues concerning students.

“I have said this earlier as well -- this is not the time for politics. Students are already under stress, and we should avoid creating further anxiety among them,” he said.

On Wednesday, the CBSE rejected allegations by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi that questioned the board's on-screen marking (OSM) system. The CBSE, in response to a post by Gandhi on X, alluded to how the Congress MP added conspiratorial colours to a matter about the board giving a contract to a private company, Coempt Edutech.

The CBSE said his claim was "erroneous, misleading and not based on facts". It said the contract was indeed awarded to Coempt Edutech - only after following due procedure under the General Financial Rules, which are mandatory and legally binding best practices laid down by the government.

"CBSE has followed the General Financial Rules protocols scrupulously in the awarding of the contract to the agency. CBSE floated the RFP for Digital Evaluation of Answer books for Board Exams 2026 on Central Public Procurement portal on 28.08.2025 and awarded the contract to the qualified bidder," the CBSE said, referring to the Request for Proposal, or RFP.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Wednesday emphatically rejected Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi’s allegations of impropriety over entering into a contract with a particular education technology firm.

“It is erroneous, misleading, and not based on facts,” the CBSE posted on social media platform X.

“CBSE has followed the General Financial Rules protocols scrupulously in awarding the contract to the agency. CBSE floated the RFP for Digital Evaluation of Answer Books for Board Exams 2026 on the Central Public Procurement portal on August 28, 2025, and awarded the contract to the qualified bidder,” it stated.

LoP Rahul Gandhi responded on the same platform, stating that it was “a denial, not an answer”, and asked the Education Minister and CBSE to answer his “four simple questions”.

He further said that the “future of 18.5 lakh students has been put in jeopardy. They deserve the truth”.

LoP Rahul Gandhi had earlier alleged “massive tampering” in the CBSE exam results and claimed that the EdTech company Coempt Edu Teck had been involved in a similar controversy in Telangana in 2019 under the name Globarena.

Calling it a “deliberate conspiracy”, he raised a series of questions.

“Why was the CBSE contract given to COEMPT, and on whose orders? Which rules and procedures were bypassed to award this contract to the company? COEMPT had already been embroiled in controversies under the name Globarena. Why didn't CBSE know about it? Why weren't background checks done? What exactly is the connection between COEMPT's management and the Modi government?” LoP Rahul Gandhi asked in his earlier X post.

He also demanded that an “independent judicial inquiry and SIT be immediately constituted to bring the real culprits of this entire scam to light”.

The controversy erupted after irregularities were alleged in the digital evaluation system used by CBSE for NEET and other examinations.

The issue surfaced after a student, Vedant Shrivastava, raised concerns about discrepancies in marks and the lack of evaluation transparency.

Vedant applied for a photocopy of his Physics answer sheet on May 19 after receiving what he believed were unexpectedly low marks. Four days later, he posted on X that the answer sheet emailed to him by CBSE did not match his handwriting and appeared to belong to another student.

On Monday, the Board rectified its earlier mistake of sharing a different answer sheet with Vedant during the evaluation review process and provided him with the correct one.

CBSE admitted to an error in its new On-Screen Marking (OSM) system after the Class 12 student was mistakenly sent another candidate’s Physics answer sheet.

The episode has raised broader questions about the reliability of CBSE’s digital evaluation process after serious flaws were reportedly detected in the new system.

The matter has sparked a nationwide debate on transparency and fairness in digital evaluation, raising wider concerns about systemic reliability.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting with former ISRO Chairman K. Radhakrishnan to evaluate preparedness for the upcoming National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) (NEET-UG) re-examination scheduled for June 21.

According to official statement, the meeting focused on strengthening examination security and ensuring smooth conduct of one of the country's largest entrance examinations.

K. Radhakrishnan, who also leads the High-Powered Steering Committee constituted to monitor the implementation of reforms in the National Testing Agency (NTA), reviewed the arrangements.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Education and the NTA were also present in the meeting.

he meeting was attended by the Secretary of Higher Education Vineet Joshi, the NTA Director General Abhishek Singh, and other senior representatives of the Ministry.

According to officials, during the review, the Director General of the NTA presented details of additional security measures being implemented to maintain transparency and credibility in the examination process.

Officials discussed the enhancement of surveillance systems, stricter monitoring mechanisms, and improved coordination at examination centres to prevent irregularities.

Emphasising the importance of conducting a fair and secure examination, Dharmendra Pradhan said that safeguarding the integrity of the examination process remains the Union government's top priority.

He also stressed that equal attention must be given to providing adequate facilities and a student-friendly atmosphere at all examination centres across the country.

The NEET-UG re-examination will be conducted at more than 5,400 examination centres spread across 550 cities nationwide.

According to officials, extensive preparations are being put in place so as to ensure that students face no inconvenience during the examination process.

Significantly, the review meeting comes amid increased focus on examination reforms and transparency in national-level entrance tests.

Officials say the Ministry of Education and the NTA are working closely to restore confidence among students and parents by strengthening security protocols and improving operational efficiency.

Source: IANS

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Gangtok, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Sikkim has achieved the status of a fully literate state under the Centre’s Ullas – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, attaining the milestone ahead of the national target set for 2027, officials said on Wednesday.

The announcement was made in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu during the seventh convocation ceremony of Sikkim University in Gangtok.

Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and state Education Minister Raju Basnet were also present on the occasion.

The Ullas – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram focuses on adult education, foundational literacy and lifelong learning with the aim of ensuring inclusive educational access across all sections of society.

Addressing the convocation ceremony, President Murmu congratulated the state government and the people of Sikkim for achieving full literacy status. “Sikkim being a fully literate state is a matter of pride. I congratulate Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, his government and all the residents of Sikkim for this achievement,” the President said.

She also praised the participation of women in literacy initiatives and noted that mothers and sisters receiving education reflected the inclusive nature of the campaign. “Through such efforts and collective contribution, the state has today become fully literate. This is your collective achievement,” Murmu added.

Governor Mathur described the development as a proud moment for the Himalayan state and congratulated the Chief Minister and his team for successfully achieving the milestone.

Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba said the achievement reflected years of hard work by volunteers, teachers and grassroots workers across villages and communities. He stressed the need to sustain the momentum and ensure that the state continues to maintain its literacy standards in the coming years.

Officials said the achievement became possible through the coordinated efforts of Gram Panchayats, urban local bodies and local communities, which actively participated in literacy and educational outreach programmes. The literacy milestone was also described as a step towards empowerment, dignity and social progress, while contributing to the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Source: IANS

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Patna, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Central Selection Board (CSB) of Constable Recruitment on Wednesday declared the final results for the Bihar Police Constable Recruitment 2025, with a total of 19,838 candidates selected for appointment in the Bihar Police and Bihar Special Armed Police.

Board Chairman Jitendra Kumar announced that selected candidates can check their results on the Board's official website.

According to the Board, of the total selected candidates, 16,852 have been chosen for the Bihar Police, while 2,986 candidates have been selected for the Bihar Special Armed Police.

The final selection list includes 12,509 male candidates, 7,312 female candidates, and 17 transgender candidates.

In addition, 332 trained Home Guards and 190 dependents of freedom fighters have also secured selection under the recruitment drive.

Jitendra Kumar said that the entire recruitment process was conducted in a transparent manner.

He told that the next phase, including character verification and medical examinations for selected candidates, will be carried out between June 20 and July 19.

After completion of these formalities, further appointment procedures will begin.

The Board has advised all selected candidates to regularly monitor updates and notifications on the official website and keep all required documents ready in advance to avoid difficulties during the verification and appointment process.

Providing details about the scale of the recruitment exercise, the Chairman said that a total of 17,06,628 candidates had applied for the constable recruitment examination.

Among them, 13,30,121 candidates appeared for the written examination.

Based on performance in the written test, 99,690 candidates were shortlisted for the Physical Efficiency Test (PET).

Eventually, 79,932 candidates participated in the PET, including 50,477 men, 29,036 women, and 29 transgender candidates.

The Board said that the final merit list was prepared after considering performances across all examination stages, along with applicable reservation rules.

The selected candidates will strengthen the force and workload of police personnel and boost effective policing in the state.

Source: IANS

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Gandhinagar, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Indian Institute of Teacher Education (IITE) in Gandhinagar on Wednesday announced a major academic expansion under the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 by establishing seven new university schools and introducing a multidisciplinary academic structure that will allow students to study subjects beyond their traditional streams, including artificial intelligence and philosophy.

The institution, established in 2010, said the restructuring marked a significant step in its transition towards becoming a “University of National Importance” and adopting a multidisciplinary academic model in line with the NEP framework.

Announcing the development, IITE director Dr. Mehul Dave said the university would become the first institution in India dedicated to preparing educators in artificial intelligence. “IITE will become India’s first university to prepare AI educators,” Dr. Dave said.

He said the state government had sanctioned a grant of Rs 127 crore for new buildings and hostel facilities as part of the university’s expansion plans.

According to the university, the revised academic structure has been designed to provide holistic education, strengthen skill-based learning, and encourage advanced interdisciplinary research.

Dr. Dave said the expansion also broadens the scope of teacher education beyond conventional classroom teaching.

The new framework includes not only government teachers but also mentors and professionals from fields such as computer education, gym and fitness training, theatre and coaching, as well as disciplines such as science, languages, social sciences, and physical education.

The university said the changes were introduced with ongoing transformations in global education systems and the increasing importance of interdisciplinary learning in mind.

The seven newly established schools are the School of Education in Sciences and Mathematics, the School of Education in Humanities and Social Sciences, the School of Physical Education & Sports and Yoga, the School of Education in Performing Arts and Fine Arts, School of Education in Commerce, Management and Educational Leadership, School of Education in Technology, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Areas, and School of Special Education.

Under the new academic model, subjects such as artificial intelligence, sports, arts, and management will be integrated with mainstream education programmes.

University officials said the structure would enable students to undertake interdisciplinary research using newer and more flexible academic approaches.

As part of the revised policy, students from science streams will also be allowed to choose optional subjects such as philosophy or artificial intelligence, according to their interests.

The university said the expansion would open new opportunities for PhD and advanced research in science and technology, the humanities, educational leadership, and the arts and sports.

It added that the restructuring was aimed at preparing educators and academic leaders with multidisciplinary knowledge and skills suited to evolving educational requirements.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Protests erupted at the Delhi University (DU) on Wednesday, against the University's decision to conduct exam on Bakrid festival with the students accusing the varsity administration of being "biased towards the Muslim minorities" and alleging that they were assaulted during their stir.

On Tuesday, the DU informed the Delhi High Court that those students belonging to the minority community and/or students who wish to participate in the festivities of Eid-ul-Zuha on May 28, may inform the Dean of the Faculty of Law by Wednesday, and the exam, supposed to be held on May 28, will be held after July 4.

Talking to IANS, Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) Vice President Rahul Jhansla said: ''We had put up a request for this yesterday. There was a protest by the students. We followed the legal method and went to the court."

He said that the court has issued an order that students who do not want to give their exams tomorrow can give their exams after July 4. However, the DUSU Vice President said that so far, the DU administration has not issued an official statement regarding this.

"This clearly reflects bias on the part of the DU administration," he alleged.

Jhansla highlighted that exams are being conducted despite the Bakrid festival being declared a gazetted holiday.

Minnat, a BA History (Hons.) student, said it is "very unfair" for those students who celebrate the festival.

The student, who herself belongs to the Muslim community, said: "We cannot imagine an exam being held on Holi, Diwali or any other festival. It is a direct attempt to marginalise the minority community. Rescheduling exams in DU is not a big thing, but now the authorities are not even ready to hear us."

She complained that when students tried to protest against the issue, they were "attacked and assaulted".

Moreover, she said that the authorities did not respond to any emails or messages.

Another Muslim student, Huda, who is pursuing a BA in Political Science from Jesus and Mary College, said that the festival is a holiday for the university officials, but exams are being conducted for students.

"There are many problems with the date sheet. They have planned an exam on a gazetted holiday," she told IANS.

"Students were dragged out of the Controller of Examinations office and were not allowed to meet the proctor."

"It is a blatant discrimination against a community," the student alleged.

Meanwhile, AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi, on Wednesday, urged Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to postpone the exams. He alleged that the Delhi University is being "biased" to Muslim minorities.

In a post on X, Owaisi said: "@dpradhanbjp kindly ensure that the exams are postponed, @UnivofDelhi is showing their biased attitude towards Muslim Minorities will they also say the same thing when festival of other communities are celebrated."

Source: IANS

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Jaipur, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Recalling the ideals of B.R. Ambedkar, Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde said on Wednesday that legal education must rise above caste, class, and community divisions and remain rooted in the spirit of national unity, quoting Ambedkar's famous assertion: "I want all people to be Indian first, Indian last, and nothing but Indian."

Addressing the third convocation ceremony of Bhimrao Ambedkar Law University in Jaipur, the Governor added that Rajasthan should emerge as a leading centre of legal education by upholding high constitutional values.

Union Minister for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa were also present at the ceremony, where medals and degrees were conferred upon students.

Describing convocation as a celebration marking the culmination of knowledge and learning, Governor Bagde referred to traditions mentioned in the Taittiriya Upanishad, where teachers imparted final guidance to students upon completion of their education.

He said the essence of those teachings lay in following truth, adhering to righteousness, and remaining humble despite acquiring knowledge.

Recalling the legacy of B.R. Ambedkar, the Governor quoted his famous statement made in 1938 in the Bombay Legislative Assembly: "I want all people to be Indian first, Indian last, and nothing but Indian."

He said the spirit of legal education must also be rooted in national unity above caste, class, or community identities.

The Governor highlighted Dr. Ambedkar's contribution as Independent India's first Law Minister and his role in framing laws aimed at social equality and justice for marginalised communities.

He also paid tribute to noted jurist Bachhraj Vyas of Didwana, praising his deep understanding of constitutional values and commitment to justice.

Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said that Ambedkar was not only a legal scholar but also an economist, author, psychologist, and visionary thinker.

He proposed that the university organise a lecture series exploring the multidimensional personality and intellectual contributions of Ambedkar so that younger generations can understand his broader legacy.

Union Minister Meghwal also added that colonial-era penal laws were primarily designed to punish Indian citizens, whereas the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita aims to ensure justice-centric governance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa said legal education and judicial reforms are essential for realising the vision of a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).

He emphasised that Rajasthan is working towards providing globally competitive education and called upon students to contribute towards making India a leading global power.

During the ceremony, Governor Bagde digitally activated the degrees of more than 25,000 graduating students through DigiLocker.

Earlier, Vice-Chancellor Nishtha Jaswal presented the university's achievements and welcomed the dignitaries.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Adani Electricity and the Adani Foundation on Tuesday announced the successful completion of a multi-day summer learning camp for BMC school students in Mumbai under the CSR initiative ‘Utthan’, designed to blend classroom education with real-life vocational exposure.

The programme was aligned with the NIPUN Bharat Mission and the National Education Policy 2020, focusing on strengthening foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN) skills while helping children connect academic concepts with practical experiences.

According to the organisers, the camp combined joyful learning methods with hands-on exposure to various professions, allowing students to better understand how classroom knowledge applies in everyday life.

Each day of the camp revolved around a specific theme that integrated scholastic activities with skill-based professions.

One of the sessions, titled "Every Child Has a Story to Spark", transformed students into “Newsroom Explorers”, where they read newspapers, identified words, numbers, dates and prices, created headlines and wrote short reports.

The activity was complemented by interactions with professionals such as cobblers, helping children understand the dignity of labour and the value of skilled professions.

Mathematics-based activities such as "Measurement Magic" and "Market Masters" encouraged children to measure objects, compare quantities and participate in mock buying-and-selling exercises.

Students also interacted with carpenters, electricians and vegetable vendors to understand how mathematical concepts are used in everyday professions.

The camp further promoted literacy, creativity and communication skills through story-building, reading circles, poster-making and public speaking activities.

Vocational sessions with tailors, blacksmiths, plumbers, and nurses introduced students to ideas related to craftsmanship, sustainability, healthcare and community service.

The concluding sessions focused on developing problem-solving abilities, logical thinking, teamwork and social responsibility among students.

Shivshankar R. Tiwari, Principal of Maharashtra Housing Board (MHB) Hindi 3 School in Malwani West, said the initiative demonstrated how classroom learning could become more meaningful when linked to real-life skills and professions.

"This camp has shown us how classroom learning can be transformed when children are exposed to real-life skills. Our students not only improved their reading and numeracy but also developed confidence and respect for different professions. It is a true example of holistic education," he said.

Pooja Bhaishankar Bhatt, parent of a student from MHB Hindi 3 School in Malwani East, said she noticed significant changes in her child after attending the camp.

"She now reads newspapers at home and explains what she learned about measurements in the market. The camp has made learning joyful and practical," she said.

A Class 4 student, Eram Javed Shaikh from MHB School in Malwani West, said the activities made learning enjoyable and interactive.

"I liked the activity where we became reporters and wrote our own headlines. Meeting the carpenter and tailor was also fun because we saw how maths and reading are used in their work," the student said.

A representative from the Adani Group said the initiative reflected the organisation’s belief that education becomes more meaningful when children are able to connect learning with real-life experiences.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Congress leader Kanhaiya Kumar on Wednesday slammed the National Testing Agency (NTA) over the NEET paper leak controversy, alleging that the agency and the government were trying to avoid accountability.

Speaking to IANS, Kanhaiya Kumar said, “According to them, what does a paper leak even mean? In their opinion, a paper leak only happens when a question paper gets printed in a newspaper. Questions are continuously being raised about the NTA chief. He has political ties with the BJP and the RSS. The NTA is entrusted with the responsibility of conducting every important examination in this country, yet they are unable to conduct even a single exam properly.”

He further said that instead of making excuses, the authorities should take responsibility for the controversy surrounding the examination.

“Instead of making excuses, they should be held accountable. The NTA and Education Minister Pradhan should answer these questions. Prime Minister Modi should also respond. Before every exam, you conduct ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’, but whenever a paper leak takes place, the reels and campaigns suddenly go silent. The government should be made accountable and action should be taken,” he told IANS.

Kumar also questioned the agency’s stand on the issue and said, “When almost all the questions are leaked, then if this is not called a paper leak, what will it be called?”

The remarks come amid continuing controversy over the NEET-UG 2026 examination and allegations of irregularities in the conduct of the test.

On Monday, the Supreme Court observed that it was “sad” that no lessons had been learnt from previous instances of NEET paper leak cases while hearing a plea against the NTA, the central body responsible for conducting the examination.

Earlier, on May 22, the NTA had informed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education that no full-fledged paper leak had occurred in the controversial NEET-UG 2026 examination. The agency maintained that “only certain questions came out” and described the issue as instances of malpractice rather than a complete paper leak.

The NEET-UG 2026 examination, an all-India pre-medical entrance test, was cancelled following allegations of a major paper leak and the circulation of a “guess paper” that reportedly matched several actual exam questions. The controversy triggered investigations by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and parliamentary scrutiny of the NTA.

Amid widespread protests by students and parents, the NTA later announced that the re-examination would be conducted on June 21.

Source: IANS

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Lucknow, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Uttar Pradesh's Yogi Adityanath government has intensified efforts to strengthen education reforms at the foundational stage, with large-scale distribution of activity-based learning material beginning across all co-located Anganwadi centres and Balvatikas in the state.

The initiative is aimed at children in the three-to-six age group and seeks to create an improved early-learning environment through educational material such as 'Chahak-1, 2 and 3', 'Kadam', 'Kalankur', Big Books, holistic report cards and Balvatika booklets.

Officials said the campaign aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020, which places Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) at the centre of children's foundational learning and development.

Under the programme, all co-located Anganwadi centres and Balvatikas across Uttar Pradesh will receive age-appropriate educational resources, including 12 varieties of Big Books, Balvatika handbooks, teaching charts and holistic report cards. The government said the initiative marks a major step toward strengthening pre-primary education and expanding quality early learning opportunities for lakhs of children across the state.

The state administration has already been implementing reforms in school education through smart classrooms, Operation Kayakalp, digital monitoring and the (National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy) NIPUN Bharat Mission. Officials said pre-primary education is now being integrated into the broader reform agenda with a sharper focus on building children's early learning skills from the start.

The move is expected to particularly benefit children in rural and disadvantaged communities by improving access to structured and activity-based learning at an early age.

The government has placed special emphasis on play-based and child-centric teaching methods, considering the age group of three to six years as the most critical stage for mental, linguistic, and social development.

The 'Chahak' series has been designed to strengthen language development, listening and speaking abilities, along with basic learning competencies. Educational resources such as 'Kadam' and 'Kalankur' are intended to encourage creativity, curiosity and cognitive development, while Big Books and teacher guides are expected to support ECCE educators and Anganwadi workers in adopting modern teaching methods.

To ensure transparency and technology-driven implementation, the state government has also introduced real-time monitoring through the 'Kitab Vitaran App'. Under the digital mechanism, Basic Shiksha Adhikaris, Block Education Officers, principals, ARPs, SRGs, and DIET mentors have been assigned responsibility for monitoring and scanning the distribution process.

Officials said the app will allow the administration to track in real time which Balvatikas have received learning material, improving accountability, and ensuring timely distribution.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that around 60 students fell ill after consuming a mid-day meal at a government-run school in Bihar’s Nalanda district.

Observing that the contents of the news report, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of human rights of the students, the apex human rights body has issued a notice to the Nalanda District Magistrate, seeking a detailed report within two weeks.

According to the media report, the incident occurred on May 21, when students of the government school allegedly complained of vomiting, stomach ache, nausea and loose motion after consuming the mid-day meal. The affected students were admitted to different nearby hospitals for treatment.

Reportedly, the meal was served to the students without first being tasted by teachers, as mandated under the prescribed safety protocol. After several students fell ill, a teacher consumed the food and also fell sick, necessitating hospitalisation.

The latest incident has once again raised concerns over food safety and hygiene standards in government schools under the mid-day meal scheme in Bihar.

Earlier, in February 2025, at least 60 students at Shri Chandpur Primary School in Nalanda’s Harnaut block had fallen ill after consuming a mid-day meal, with many complaining of stomach ache and vomiting.

In another incident reported in May this year, over 250 children fell ill after consuming a mid-day meal at a government school in Saharsa district. The children complained of stomach pain, vomiting and dizziness, prompting their admission to local health facilities.

Officials later said that all affected students were stable, while an investigation was launched to ascertain the cause of the suspected food poisoning.

Established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the NHRC, an autonomous statutory body, embodies India's concern for the promotion and protection of human rights. ​Its primary role is to protect and promote human rights, defined as the rights relating to life, liberty, equality, and the dignity of individuals, guaranteed by the Constitution or embodied in international covenants, and enforceable by courts in India. ​

The apex human rights body has the power to take suo motu (on its own motion) action based on media reports, public knowledge, or other sources, without receiving a formal complaint of human rights violations. ​

Source: IANS

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Bhubaneswar, May 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) on Tuesday declared the results of the Odisha Civil Services Examination-2024, with 200 candidates, including 78 women, successfully clearing the examination.

As per the notification issued by the commission, among the successful candidates, 70 belong to the unreserved category, including 30 women; 35 candidates, including 11 women, belong to the Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC); 45 candidates, including 16 women, belong to the Scheduled Castes (SC); and 50 candidates, including 21 women, belong to the Scheduled Tribes (ST).

It is worth noting that the Odisha Civil Services Examination is conducted in three stages: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Interview.

The advertisement for the Odisha Civil Services Examination-2024 was published on December 31, 2024, for a total of 200 posts, including 65 reserved for women candidates.

According to the commission, a total of 2,058 candidates, including 707 women, appeared for the Main Examination held in 2026.

Of them, 385 candidates, including 155 women, were called for document verification and interviews at the OPSC office in Cuttack between May 14 and 20, 2026.

The OPSC has recommended 200 candidates, including 78 women, for appointment through the Odisha Civil Services Examination-2024, while Bubun Sahoo, belonging to the SEBC category, topped the list of successful candidates.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati congratulated the successful candidates.

Taking to his X handle, Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati wrote: “Congratulations to all those who have cleared the OCS Examination. Your achievement reflects hard work, perseverance, and a strong commitment to public service. As you begin this new journey, may you work with honesty, responsibility, and compassion for the welfare of the people, and play a meaningful role in building a progressive and empowered Odisha.”

Wishing heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all the successful candidates, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi wrote: “Administrative service is not merely a position, but rather a sacred vow of public service. Let it be your primary resolve to embrace it as such, to build a transparent, accountable, and people-centric administrative system, and to serve as representatives of the government in ensuring that every welfare scheme reaches the beneficiaries in the farthest corners of society with success. I wish everyone a bright future in this glorious journey of building a ‘Samruddha Odisha’.”

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Amid attempts by the CBSE to resolve glitches on its answer-book evaluation portal, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Tuesday refuted claims of a social media user that the On Screen Marking (OSM) was compromised by him and said that no security breaches have come to light.

Assuring students about the strong safeguards implemented to ensure the integrity of the platform, the Board issued a clarification regarding the misleading claim made by the social media user.

In a message on X, the CBSE said, “In a post made by a user on social media, it has been claimed that the CBSE On Screen Marking (OSM) bearing URL: http://cbse.onmarks.co.in was compromised by him on February 26, 2026. This has also formed the basis for a few news articles.”

“At the outset, it is clarified that the Portal used for evaluation of answer-books bore a different URL, which has neither been compromised nor does it have the vulnerabilities indicated in the said social media post,” it said.

“The URL: http://cbse.onmarks.co.in is the testing site only with sample data for internal testing and review purposes. There are no actual evaluation data, marks or other data held on that portal. The Board emphasises that no security breaches have come to light on the Portal deployed for the actual evaluation work,” said the Board.

The Board would like to state that this system has been implemented for enhanced transparency in assessments with strong grievance redressal mechanisms built into it, and would reassure all concerned about the strong safeguards implemented to ensure the integrity of the platform actually deployed as regards any vulnerabilities.

Earlier in the day, Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the “discrepancies” arising from the On-Screen Marking (OSM) introduced by the CBSE for Class 10 and 12, demanding a one-time redressal for the impacted students.

“A government that cannot manage a simple secondary education exam, let alone cause the disastrous NEET fiasco, has no right to make tall claims of being a ‘Vishwaguru’,” said Venugopal in a message on X.

The Congress MP said, “The CBSE results have been a complete mess, with the digital scanning and evaluation system causing widespread panic among students because of the thousands of errors that have come to light. On top of that, the CBSE is arbitrarily charging exorbitant re-evaluation fees from these helpless students.”

Source: IANS

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