ASER 2024 reports significant improvements in Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) across India, with notable gains in reading and arithmetic skills among students. However, state disparities persist, highlighting the uneven effects of educational interventions. Government schools have shown better recovery compared to private institutions post-pandemic.
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The Supreme Court has given the Punjab government until December 31 to convince farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, on a month-long hunger strike, to move to a hospital. The court criticized the state's failure to provide medical aid and suggested those blocking assistance could be abetting suicide.
India's government plans to boost agriculture growth through multiple schemes, including a special program in 100 low-productivity districts, and a six-year mission for self-reliance in pulses. The Kisan Credit Card loan limit increases to Rs 5 lakh and new initiatives involve promoting fruits, vegetables, millets, and high-yielding seeds, along with a comprehensive 'Rural Prosperity and Resilience' program.
The Congress criticized the BJP over the popcorn tax and highlighted concerning economic issues. Jairam Ramesh emphasized the need for government focus on comprehensive economic solutions, suggested income support for the poor and tax relief for the middle class in the upcoming budget, and advocated for increased government expenditure to stimulate economic growth.
The Indian Railways successfully operated over 17,000 trains in 45 days for the Maha Kumbh, carrying around 4.5-5 crore people. This large-scale operation was made possible through a Rs 5,000 crore infrastructure upgrade and seamless coordination among departments to ensure a smooth journey for devotees.
Mohammad Arshad from Agra allegedly killed his mother and four sisters in a Lucknow hotel, confessing in a video and implicating his father. His uncle, Mohammad Zeeshan, recounts receiving Arshad's chilling confession and calls for his execution. Initial investigations suggest domestic disputes motivated the killings.
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi launched a crowdfunding campaign, urging public support for her election bid from the Kalkaji seat. Highlighting BJP's financial power, she emphasized AAP's reliance on honest public contributions. Campaign billboards feature former CM Arvind Kejriwal, aiming to capitalize on his popularity. Atishi faces BJP's Ramesh Bhiduri in the upcoming Delhi elections.
A youth-led study tour by I.I.M.U.N. brought 60 future leaders together in the UK, emphasizing India-UK relations and glocal citizenship. Highlights included discussions in the British Parliament, visits to prestigious universities, and participation in Indian Republic Day celebrations at the Indian High Commission in London.
Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav announced the closure of liquor shops in 17 holy towns to curb alcohol consumption in religious areas. The decision from the cabinet meeting in Khargone includes shutting down vends in Ujjain and other municipalities, urban councils, and village panchayats, with a continued ban around Narmada river.
The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj witnessed an unprecedented influx of 62 crore pilgrims and several high-profile visitors. Celebrities, business tycoons, and international stars participated in the spiritual gathering, emphasizing its significance as a global religious phenomenon.
Rahul Gandhi criticized PM Narendra Modi for not raising the issue of Gautam Adani's indictment in the US during his meeting with President Donald Trump, emphasizing that such matters are of national interest. Modi had dismissed the issue as personal, which Gandhi argued was inappropriate for a leader representing the country's interests.