Education
Share
Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link and will create a new password via email.
Please briefly explain why you feel this question should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this answer should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this user should be reported.
What are the aims and objects of recently passed and enforced, The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024? Whether University/State Education Board examinations, too, are covered under the Act? (Answer in 250 words) [UPSC 2024]
Model Answer Introduction The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, was enacted to uphold the integrity of public examinations in India, particularly in light of rising instances of cheating, including at least four reported paper leak cases in 2024 alone. Aims and Objectives ofRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, was enacted to uphold the integrity of public examinations in India, particularly in light of rising instances of cheating, including at least four reported paper leak cases in 2024 alone.
Aims and Objectives of the Act
Coverage of University and State Education Board Examinations
The Act does not explicitly cover university or state education board examinations. However, it defines “public examination” as any examination conducted by a public examination authority specified in the schedule, which includes bodies like UPSC, SSC, and others. This definition ensures standardisation across institutions and upholds the integrity of examination processes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, represents a significant step towards ensuring transparent and fair educational assessments in India, aligning with the vision of fostering merit and accountability in the education system.
See lessStudent awareness about the government's funding opportunities for biotech startups.
The Indian biotech industry requires student knowledge about governmental funding sources to develop innovations and entrepreneurial activities in this essential area. Why Awareness Matters: Startup biotech companies must have knowledge about funding resources to obtain financial support or their exRead more
The Indian biotech industry requires student knowledge about governmental funding sources to develop innovations and entrepreneurial activities in this essential area.
Why Awareness Matters:
Startup biotech companies must have knowledge about funding resources to obtain financial support or their expansion would face obstacles.
Extensive knowledge regarding funding opportunities stimulates young researchers and entrepreneurs to develop their innovative proposals because it lowers startup obstacles.
Through government financial support researchers are motivated to develop innovations in healthcare as well as agricultural sciences and environmental protection.
The expansion of biotech startups through successful operations leads to the establishment of high-paying skilled positions which subsequently drives national economic development.
How to Improve Student Awareness:
University and college administrators should conduct workshops and seminars which deliver information about government funding programs with their eligibility standards and application requirements.
The organization of guest lecture sessions should welcome both government officials and funding representatives who will deliver live information regarding program funding options specifically for students.
The organization should develop simple online platforms that provide detailed information about funding opportunities along with essential requirements and critical dates as well as demonstrate successful funding cases.
The institution needs to create a mentorship platform which pairs students with profitable entrepreneurs and relevant experts who assist students in securing funding from government support programs and understanding the startup environment.
The establishment of university-based incubation centers provides students with mentorship programs to develop student startups and access funding information through both networking opportunities and incubation facilities.
-Curriculum Integration: Integrate information about government funding opportunities into relevant academic courses, such as biotechnology, entrepreneurship, and business studies.
Through online campaigns on social media platforms the organization will spread information about funding possibilities and interact with student audiences.
The institution should unite with existing student organizations to host funding-awareness campaigns which focus both on government aid and start-up ventures.
See lessWhat are the ethical implications of the art market's role in the looting and illicit trafficking of cultural artifacts?
The ethical implication of looting and illicit traffic in the culture artifacts of art market is actually very huge because: The cultural loss is entangled with art market. To feed its gullible need for antiquated and priceless monuments, the art market incites looting as well as illegal traffickingRead more
The ethical implication of looting and illicit traffic in the culture artifacts of art market is actually very huge because:
The cultural loss is entangled with art market. To feed its gullible need for antiquated and priceless monuments, the art market incites looting as well as illegal trafficking that rob source countries from their own artifacts and disarrays historical and archeological scenarios.
-Profit from Plunder: The illegal trade in cultural heritage sometimes generates revenue for criminals who use such money for terrorism and organized crime, which fuels violence and instability in the source countries.
-Erosion of Trust: It erodes public confidence in the art market when respected auction houses and galleries are found selling looted antiquities, this will destroy the reputation of honest collectors and dealers.
-Ethical Concerns for Collectors: The acquisition of this artifact for collectors raises questions about ethical sourcing. How can one be certain that the artifact being purchased was acquired lawfully and ethically?
-Repatriation Challenges: Illegal trade is the major hindrance to the repatriation of looted cultural artifacts to their original owners, which in turn has resulted in a wave of lawsuits and ethical deliberations over ownership and rights to cultures.
Multi-dimensional strategy is required to tackle these ethical problems:
Transparency and Due Diligence: The art market should be demanding with due diligence in the authentication of provenance, so the artifacts are legally acquired.
International Cooperation: International cooperation must strengthen to avoid illicit trafficking. Better information sharing, improved law enforcement, and stronger export controls would help achieve that.
-Education and Awareness: Education among collectors, dealers, and the public is needed to educate them on ethical implications that the illegal trade of art creates.
-Backing Source Countries, through capacity building, training, and providing resources, help source countries preserve cultural heritage through archaeological researches and building museums.
See lessWhich category of British policies in India focused on the economic exploitation and commercial interests of the British East India Company?
This is a class of British policies in India with regard to economic exploitation and the interests of commerce from the British East India Company; thus, the category would be commercial policies. -Monopoly in Trade: To begin with, the idea was to create a monopoly in the trade with India. TRead more
This is a class of British policies in India with regard to economic exploitation and the interests of commerce from the British East India Company; thus, the category would be commercial policies.
-Monopoly in Trade: To begin with, the idea was to create a monopoly in the trade with India. That comprised stripping of trading rights on particular items such as spices without letting the activities of other European traders go unchecked.
Land Revenue Policies: “The Company introduced land revenue systems such as the Zamindari system to maximize revenue collection in favor of the Company. This system of tenancy often exploited Indian farmers and resulted in the accumulation of wealth by the Company.”.
– Promotion of Cash Crops: The Company encouraged cash crops such as cotton, indigo, and opium to be sold as exports to Britain at the cost of food crops, thus famines and economic hardship on the Indian farmers’ side.
De-industrialization of India: The Company positively encouraged the de-industrialization of India by policies which benefited British manufactured goods, thereby causing a demand for the product and hence increased profit to the Company.
See lessWhich category of British policies in India focused on the economic exploitation and commercial interests of the British East India Company?
This is a class of British policies in India with regard to economic exploitation and the interests of commerce from the British East India Company; thus, the category would be commercial policies. -Monopoly in Trade: To begin with, the idea was to create a monopoly in the trade with India. TRead more
This is a class of British policies in India with regard to economic exploitation and the interests of commerce from the British East India Company; thus, the category would be commercial policies.
-Monopoly in Trade: To begin with, the idea was to create a monopoly in the trade with India. That comprised stripping of trading rights on particular items such as spices without letting the activities of other European traders go unchecked.
Land Revenue Policies: “The Company introduced land revenue systems such as the Zamindari system to maximize revenue collection in favor of the Company. This system of tenancy often exploited Indian farmers and resulted in the accumulation of wealth by the Company.”.
– Promotion of Cash Crops: The Company encouraged cash crops such as cotton, indigo, and opium to be sold as exports to Britain at the cost of food crops, thus famines and economic hardship on the Indian farmers’ side.
De-industrialization of India: The Company positively encouraged the de-industrialization of India by policies which benefited British manufactured goods, thereby causing a demand for the product and hence increased profit to the Company.
See lessThe UGC has recently issued regulations for the establishment and operation of campuses by foreign universities in India. What are the reasons behind permitting the entry of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEIs) in India? Also, what are the key challenges in ensuring their seamless integration?( 200 Words)
Model Answer Introduction The recent UGC regulations for establishing campuses by foreign universities in India aim to foster the internationalization of the higher education sector. These regulations offer India a chance to improve the quality and diversity of its educational landscape. Reasons forRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The recent UGC regulations for establishing campuses by foreign universities in India aim to foster the internationalization of the higher education sector. These regulations offer India a chance to improve the quality and diversity of its educational landscape.
Reasons for Allowing Entry of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEIs)
Access to World-Class Education
Foreign universities bring globally recognized standards of education, faculty expertise, and advanced teaching methodologies. This enables Indian students to access specialized programs and international learning experiences without leaving the country.
Enhanced Research Opportunities
Collaboration with FHEIs can lead to joint research projects, exchange programs, and global academic networks. Such collaborations will enhance India’s research capabilities and contribute to a more innovative academic environment.
Enhanced Employability
Degrees from foreign universities are often seen as prestigious, which can significantly improve the job prospects and earning potential of Indian graduates. These qualifications can open doors to international career opportunities.
Quality Enhancement
The competition from FHEIs will push domestic universities to improve their educational offerings, infrastructure, faculty quality, and research capabilities. This can lead to an overall improvement in the Indian higher education system.
Obstacles in Their Smooth Entry in India
Cultural Integration
FHEIs will face challenges in adapting their teaching methodologies to align with India’s cultural and multilingual context, as recommended by the National Education Policy (NEP).
Missing Western Ecosystem
While foreign institutions offer an immersive social and cultural learning experience, replicating this in India, including the lifestyle benefits of studying in Western countries, will be challenging.
Funding Issues
Foreign universities rely heavily on endowments and research funding from their home countries, and securing such funds in India might prove difficult due to regulatory hurdles and investment restrictions.
Location Constraints
Finding appropriate spaces for large campuses in India’s overcrowded cities will be difficult. Moreover, establishing campuses in rural areas is less appealing for FHEIs due to limited infrastructure.
Lack of Autonomy
The UGC guidelines require foreign universities to seek prior approval for any new programs, which can limit their operational freedom and flexibility.
Conclusion: Australia’s Diakin University
Australia’s Deakin University has become the first foreign university to establish a campus in India, setting a precedent for future collaborations. With proper policies and support, FHEIs have the potential to transform India’s higher education landscape.
See lessDo you believe philanthropy can serve as a sustainable source of funding for India's higher education system? Discuss with examples. (200 words)
Model Answer Philanthropy holds potential as a supplementary funding source for India's higher education system, but it faces significant challenges that limit its ability to be a completely sustainable model. Positive Contributions of Philanthropy Philanthropy can address several critical needs inRead more
Model Answer
Philanthropy holds potential as a supplementary funding source for India’s higher education system, but it faces significant challenges that limit its ability to be a completely sustainable model.
Positive Contributions of Philanthropy
Philanthropy can address several critical needs in India’s higher education system, particularly in infrastructure development, research, and skill-building. For instance, IIT Bombay received a generous donation of ₹315 crores from alumni Nandan Nilekani, which was used to create world-class infrastructure and promote cutting-edge research in engineering and technology. Similarly, Frank Islam’s $2 million donation to Aligarh Muslim University led to the establishment of the Frank and Debbie Islam School of Management, focusing on entrepreneurship and employable skills.
Additionally, philanthropic foundations like the Tata Trust and Shiv Nadar Foundation have been instrumental in providing scholarships and setting up schools across India, improving access to education for marginalized communities. Several prominent private institutions like Azim Premji University and OP Jindal Global University also showcase the impact of philanthropic efforts in enhancing the quality of higher education in the country.
Challenges to Sustainable Philanthropic Funding
Despite its potential, philanthropy alone cannot ensure long-term sustainability in India’s higher education system. One major hurdle is the lack of institutional autonomy in many universities. Donors often demand a say in how funds are used, but governance structures in Indian institutions are often insufficient to accommodate such requests. Additionally, the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) practice of deducting philanthropic contributions from universities’ grants discourages universities from actively seeking private donations.
Taxation issues also pose a barrier. Unlike global institutions such as Harvard or MIT, Indian educational trusts face limitations in how they can invest or utilize funds without risking tax-exempt status.
Conclusion
While philanthropy can certainly enhance India’s higher education system, relying solely on it for funding would be unsustainable. The government must continue to increase its budget allocation to education, as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, while universities should be supported in developing more effective fundraising strategies. A collaborative approach between government, universities, and philanthropists is essential for the long-term health of the system.
See lessWhat are the key challenges in achieving Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) in India, and what measures can be implemented to ensure universal FLN across the country? (200 words)
Model Answer Challenges in Achieving Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) in India Inadequate Budget India spends only about 3% of its GDP on education, well below the 6% required to ensure quality education and achieve FLN goals (Source: ASER 2022). Lack of Coordination There is a disconnect beRead more
Model Answer
Challenges in Achieving Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) in India
India spends only about 3% of its GDP on education, well below the 6% required to ensure quality education and achieve FLN goals (Source: ASER 2022).
There is a disconnect between the Ministry of Women and Child Development and the Ministry of Education, hindering effective delivery of pre-school and formal schooling programs.
Language barriers and a lack of skilled teachers impede early-grade learning, as many students are taught in a non-native language.
High rates of stunting (35.5%), wasting (19.3%), and underweight (32.1%) children (NFHS-5) negatively affect cognitive development and learning abilities.
Many schools lack basic facilities such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity, which are critical for a conducive learning environment.
19% of teaching positions are vacant, with rural areas facing even higher shortages, leading to overcrowded classrooms and lack of attention to early-grade education (State of Education Report, 2021).
Measures to Achieve Universal FLN
Clear year-wise learning outcomes should be established for pre-schools and up to Grade 3 to ensure structured learning progress.
Assessments should focus on a range of skills beyond traditional exams, including art, group work, and role play to cater to diverse learning styles.
Teachers must be trained to address the emotional, social, and psychological needs of young children, with a focus on experiential learning.
The curriculum should be designed to meet the socio-economic and cultural needs of children, making learning relevant and accessible.
Schools, teachers, parents, and local communities must collaborate to improve educational outcomes. Regular medical check-ups and nutritious meals are also essential.
Programs like NIPUN Bharat and NISHTHA, along with initiatives such as DIKSHA, focus on improving FLN standards and support teacher training and monitoring.
These combined efforts will help address the existing challenges and move towards universal FLN in India.
See lessEthics-values inculcated by educational institutions
In this respect, the NEP 2020 has aligned with Gandhi’s vision in that development is Gandhian when it is full bod DEVELOPMENT. It stresses on: -Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE): From 3-6 years of age, the early years, NEP also put superordinate on learning foundation to build up the bodyRead more
In this respect, the NEP 2020 has aligned with Gandhi’s vision in that development is Gandhian when it is full bod DEVELOPMENT. It stresses on:
-Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE): From 3-6 years of age, the early years, NEP also put superordinate on learning foundation to build up the body, mind and spirit.
-Multilingualism: While Gandhi insisted that mother tongue instruction preserves and strengthens cultural frameworks, it improves self-esteem.
-Experiential Learning: The focus of NEP on activity based learning, freedom exploration inquiry, creativity and critical thinking shows us that Gandhian also favoured pragmatic education.
-Vocational Training: If the vocational training could be put side-by-side with the academics then the student himself would be ready to face the world as the Gandhiji wanted the people of India to be self-employed and skilled.
Focus on Values: NEP has focused on ethical standards, social purposes and environmental concern another principal of Gandhi’s vision.
Thus, the NEP 2020 attempts to go beyond the mechanical process of cramming and make an effort to realize the desired formation of the product for which Mahatma Gandhi desired; a well-rounded individual.
See less"Securing Educational Priorities"
Government and policymakers can do a couple of things to keep education a priority. Among these are: -Increased Funding; Allocating more funds into education specifically public schools and higher education institutes. -Targeted Spending: Funding for early childhood education, teacher training, andRead more
Government and policymakers can do a couple of things to keep education a priority. Among these are:
-Increased Funding; Allocating more funds into education specifically public schools and higher education institutes. -Targeted Spending: Funding for early childhood education, teacher training, and specific infrastructural development.
-National Policy Reforms include:
-Quality Assurance: High quality assurance standards for both educational institutions and training programs for teachers.
-Accountability: A monitoring system of results and accountability.
-Policies in Inclusive Education: Formulate inclusive education policies to cater to the needs of diverse learners such as students with disabilities and marginalized groups.
New Directions:
Digital Learning: Exploiting technology for improving learning experiences in particularly those areas with little access. Lifelong Learning: Extend Learning Opportunities for all age segments. Skills Development: Place education in tune with industry to create employable graduates.
Public-Private Partnerships:
-Collaborate: Bring government, private sector, civil society together to pool resources and expertise. Incentivize: Provide tax incentives and other benefits to induce private sector benefits to the education field.
These measures will ensure that education always remains at the top of the priority list, producing a workforce of skills, social mobility, and the engine of economic growth for governments and policymakers.
See less