August 4, 2026

2026

‘Russia, China only fear …’: Donald Trump blasts Nato; takes credit for pushing bloc to pay ‘bills’

‘Russia, China only fear …’: Donald Trump blasts Nato; takes credit for pushing bloc to pay ‘bills’

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

File photo: US President Donald Trump (Picture credit: AP) US President Donald Trump on Wednesday claimed that Nato allies sharply increased their defence spending only after his intervention, while also asserting that Russia and China do not fear the military alliance without the United States.In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Nato countries were…

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Texas teachers’ union sues state education agency over investigations into social media posts about Charlie Kirk

Texas teachers’ union sues state education agency over investigations into social media posts about Charlie Kirk

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

A Texas teachers’ union has sued the state’s education department, accusing it of retaliating against public school employees for their social media posts following the assassination of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk.According to the lawsuit, filed Tuesday in a US District Court in Austin, the Texas Education Agency and its commissioner, Mike Morath, violated the…

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Kannada actor Dhanush Raj files police complaint; alleges ASSAULT and THREATS by his wife, Police probe both complaints

Kannada actor Dhanush Raj files police complaint; alleges ASSAULT and THREATS by his wife, Police probe both complaints

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Kannada actor Dhanush Raj filed a police complaint against his wife, Ashrita, alleging assault, threats, and constant questioning about his whereabouts. He sought police protection due to fear for his safety. Ashrita has filed a counter-complaint accusing Dhanush Raj of dowry harassment and torture. Police are investigating both complaints. In what started as a family…

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‘Leave as soon as possible’: Australia updates travel advisory; urges citizens to exit Iran amid violent protests

‘Leave as soon as possible’: Australia updates travel advisory; urges citizens to exit Iran amid violent protests

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Australia issued a travel advisory on Wednesday urging its citizens to leave Iran “as soon as possible,” warning of violent protests and a “volatile” security situation.“If you’re in Iran, you should leave as soon as possible,” the Australian government said in its updated advisory. “There’s ongoing violent nationwide protests that may further escalate without notice……

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Bangladesh–Pakistan ties: Dhaka to resume direct flights to Karachi from January 29; service restarts after 10-year gap

Bangladesh–Pakistan ties: Dhaka to resume direct flights to Karachi from January 29; service restarts after 10-year gap

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Bangladesh’s national airline will resume nonstop flights between Dhaka and Karachi later this month, restoring direct air links between Bangladesh and Pakistan after a gap of more than 10 years, officials said on Wednesday.Biman Bangladesh Airlines will begin operating the Dhaka–Karachi service from January 29. Bangladesh Slipping Into Pakistan’s Pocket: Sushant Sareen Warns India Of…

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UPPSC Assistant Teacher Admit Card 2026 likely to be released tomorrow for January 17 exam: Steps to download online

UPPSC Assistant Teacher Admit Card 2026 likely to be released tomorrow for January 17 exam: Steps to download online

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

UPPSC releases Assistant Teacher admit card 2026 tomorrow, exam scheduled for January 17 The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission is going to release the admit cards for the Assistant Teacher (LT Grade) recruitment examination tomorrow i.e., January 8, 2026, on its official website. Candidates, who have successfully completed the application process, will be able to…

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Prabhas, Sanjay Dutt, to Nidhhi Agerwal: ‘The Raja Saab’ cast salaries and budget revealed, deets inside

Prabhas, Sanjay Dutt, to Nidhhi Agerwal: ‘The Raja Saab’ cast salaries and budget revealed, deets inside

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

The Raja Saab is shaping up to be a massive Telugu film. Reports reveal the salaries of its star-studded cast. Prabhas is reportedly taking a reduced fee of around ₹100 crore. Sanjay Dutt, Anupam Kher, Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, Riddhi Kumar, and Brahmanandam are also commanding significant paychecks. The film’s budget is estimated to be…

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‘Anywhere in world’: US on seizing Russia-flagged ship; another tanker boarded

‘Anywhere in world’: US on seizing Russia-flagged ship; another tanker boarded

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Venezuela seized tanker (File photo) US secretary of war Pete Hegseth on Wednesday said the Venezuela oil blockade was “in effect anywhere in the world” shortly after American forces, after a high-stakes chase, boarded and seized a Russian-flagged oil vessel, which reportedly was linked to Venezuela.“The blockade of sanctioned and illicit Venezuelan oil remains in…

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J-1 visa holder says she worked under convicted sex offender who ‘preyed on foreigners’ in Colorado: ‘I was crying a lot…’

J-1 visa holder says she worked under convicted sex offender who ‘preyed on foreigners’ in Colorado: ‘I was crying a lot…’

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

A Lithuanian student who came to US on a J-1 cultural exchange visa says she had a terrible experience working under a boss she claims “preyed on foreigners”.27-year-old Ugne Duncyte travelled to Colorado to work two summers in Estes Park as part of the J-1 visa programme, which is run by the US State Department…

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NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh’s education sector has witnessed a far-reaching transformation over the past eight years, marked by expanded digital access, improved infrastructure, higher enrolment, rapid growth in skill education and structural reforms in higher education.Government data indicate that sustained policy focus since 2017 has led to measurable improvements across school, secondary, technical and university education, aligning learning with employability and long-term development goals.Digital Expansion and Infrastructure Push in School EducationOne of the most visible changes has been the expansion of digital education and school infrastructure. Thousands of council schools have been upgraded with smart classrooms, ICT labs and learning resources, reducing the rural–urban digital divide.Key developments include:Smart classrooms established in over 25,000 council schoolsICT labs operational in more than 5,800 schoolsOver 2.6 lakh tablets provided for teachers’ useNearly 27 per cent increasein schools with computer access in 2023–24 compared to 2015–16Under Operation Kayakalp, primary and upper primary schools have achieved saturation of basic infrastructure facilities, improving classroom environments and student retention.Improved Teacher Availability and Learning ConditionsTeacher availability has improved across school levels, contributing to better learning outcomes. Student–teacher ratios have declined in junior basic, senior basic and higher secondary schools, easing classroom pressure and improving teacher engagement.To strengthen staffing further, the government has reformed recruitment processes by abolishing interviews and shifting to written examinations. Since 2017, thousands of teachers have been appointed in government and aided secondary schools, alongside the creation of new teaching posts.Enrolment Drive and Declining Dropout RatesEnrolment-focused initiatives such as School Chalo Abhiyan and the Sharda Programme have played a key role in expanding access to education. Nearly four million additional children have been enrolled through these campaigns, accompanied by a significant decline in dropout rates.Under the Sharda Programme alone, 7.77 lakh children were admitted to council schools in 2024–25.Participation under the Right to Education (RTE) Act has expanded sharply:2016–17: 22,040 children enrolled2024–25: Over 4.3 lakh children enrolledThe state has reimbursed more than Rs638 crore in fees to unaided recognised schools between 2022–23 and 2024–25 under RTE provisions.Focus on Girls’ Education and Residential SchoolingGirls’ education has received targeted attention. All 746 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas have been upgraded to provide free residential education up to Class 12 for girls from weaker sections.In addition, new institutions such as Atal Residential Schools (now operational in 18 divisions) and Chief Minister Model Composite Schools are expanding access to quality schooling. With a budgetary provision of around Rs 4,500 crore, 150 model composite schools are being established across districts, offering education from pre-primary to Class 12.Rapid Expansion of Skill and Technical EducationSkill development has emerged as a central pillar of education reform. The state has recorded rapid growth in technical institutions:3,310 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) have been established since 1947Of these, 668 ITIs were added between 2017 and 2025Polytechnic institutions increased from 526 in 2016–17 to over 2,100 in 2024–25Training and employment outcomes under the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission have improved substantially. Between 2017–18 and 2023–24:Over 14 lakh youth were trainedMore than 5.3 lakh youth secured employmentAnnual averages during this period nearly doubled compared to pre-2017 years.Secondary Education Infrastructure and Sports PromotionThe state currently has over 29,000 secondary schools. New government intercolleges and high schools have been established, while hundreds of existing institutions are being upgraded under the Project Alankar scheme with libraries, laboratories, classrooms, drinking water facilities and sports infrastructure.Indoor mini stadiums are being constructed in government intercolleges to promote sports awareness, while ICT labs and Atal Tinkering Labs are expanding hands-on learning.Higher Education Reforms under NEP 2020Higher education reforms gained momentum after the implementation of NEP 2020, which Uttar Pradesh began adopting from 2021–22. Multidisciplinary education, credit-based systems, flexible entry-exit options and uniform academic calendars have been introduced across institutions.Digital empowerment has been a key focus:Over 41 lakh students registered under the Academic Bank of CreditSmart classrooms, e-libraries and ERP-based governance systems are implemented across universities and collegesQuality benchmarks have improved, with more institutions securing NAAC accreditation and representation in national rankings. Paid internships, apprenticeships and mandatory skill courses have strengthened the employability focus.A Shift Towards Future-Ready EducationFrom a system once constrained by limited access and weak infrastructure, Uttar Pradesh’s education sector has transitioned towards a digital, skill-oriented and employment-linked framework. Officials say the reforms reflect a long-term effort to align education with innovation, self-reliance and inclusive growth, positioning the state for future demographic and economic challenges.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos“Worst Kind of Discrimination in PoJK”: UKPNP Chairman Flags Deepening CrisisNo Compromise On Terror: PM Modi, Benjamin Netanyahu Reaffirm India Israel Strategic PartnershipOwaisi Slams MCD Demolition, Says Turkman Gate Land Fully Belongs To WaqfNehru Catered To Liaquat Ali Khan, Ignored Somnath History: BJP MP Sudhanshu TrivediUS FARA Filings Expose How Pakistan Lobbied Washington To Somehow Stop India’s Operation Sindoor’Gave Fundamental Confidence’: Jaishankar Cites Nuclear Tests, Stresses Strategic AutonomyBangladesh: Hindu Man Mithun Sarkar Drowns After Jumping In Canal To Escape Chasing MobPakistan Army’s Daring Challenge Targets India, Afghanistan As Terror Allegations And Threats Rise’2026 Will See An Upswing’: EAM Jaishankar Hails India-EU Ties Amid FTA TalksAustralian Senator Slams Albanese Govt Over Fake Degrees Linked To Indian Students Visa Row Exposed123Photostories6 classic non-vegetarian Cutlets to enjoy during winter monthsVijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ to Prabhas’ ‘The Raja Saab’: Biggest South releases for Pongal 2026Can you guess the temples and places featured on INR 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 currency notes?How to add smoky flavour to winter dishes without using a tandoor at home”I just read somewhere that 20% of American meals are consumed in a car!” Sadhguru shares tips on the right way to eat foodRepublic Day 2026 long weekend travel ideas from Delhi-NCR; places to go, things to doMumbai’s busiest suburban corridor on Western Railway is set for major safety upgrade: What we knowBengaluru breathes easy: Hebbal flyover cuts traffic chaos to just 2 minutes (Photos)7 habits of parents that raise kinder kidsShivlings in Kashi Associated With the Nine Planets123Hot PicksBudget 2026Venezuela NewsGold rate todayStock Market TodayCigarette price hikePublic holidays January 2026Bank Holidays JanuaryTop TrendingNikki Bella BoyfriendTommy Fleetwood and Clare FleetwoodKarl Anthony Town FianceeIndia Apache DealDelhi Air PollutionWipro Work From Office RuleMustafizur RahmanGreenland RowVenezuela Presidential Palace GunfireHouse GOP members

NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh’s education sector has witnessed a far-reaching transformation over the past eight years, marked by expanded digital access, improved infrastructure, higher enrolment, rapid growth in skill education and structural reforms in higher education.Government data indicate that sustained policy focus since 2017 has led to measurable improvements across school, secondary, technical and university education, aligning learning with employability and long-term development goals.Digital Expansion and Infrastructure Push in School EducationOne of the most visible changes has been the expansion of digital education and school infrastructure. Thousands of council schools have been upgraded with smart classrooms, ICT labs and learning resources, reducing the rural–urban digital divide.Key developments include:Smart classrooms established in over 25,000 council schoolsICT labs operational in more than 5,800 schoolsOver 2.6 lakh tablets provided for teachers’ useNearly 27 per cent increasein schools with computer access in 2023–24 compared to 2015–16Under Operation Kayakalp, primary and upper primary schools have achieved saturation of basic infrastructure facilities, improving classroom environments and student retention.Improved Teacher Availability and Learning ConditionsTeacher availability has improved across school levels, contributing to better learning outcomes. Student–teacher ratios have declined in junior basic, senior basic and higher secondary schools, easing classroom pressure and improving teacher engagement.To strengthen staffing further, the government has reformed recruitment processes by abolishing interviews and shifting to written examinations. Since 2017, thousands of teachers have been appointed in government and aided secondary schools, alongside the creation of new teaching posts.Enrolment Drive and Declining Dropout RatesEnrolment-focused initiatives such as School Chalo Abhiyan and the Sharda Programme have played a key role in expanding access to education. Nearly four million additional children have been enrolled through these campaigns, accompanied by a significant decline in dropout rates.Under the Sharda Programme alone, 7.77 lakh children were admitted to council schools in 2024–25.Participation under the Right to Education (RTE) Act has expanded sharply:2016–17: 22,040 children enrolled2024–25: Over 4.3 lakh children enrolledThe state has reimbursed more than Rs638 crore in fees to unaided recognised schools between 2022–23 and 2024–25 under RTE provisions.Focus on Girls’ Education and Residential SchoolingGirls’ education has received targeted attention. All 746 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas have been upgraded to provide free residential education up to Class 12 for girls from weaker sections.In addition, new institutions such as Atal Residential Schools (now operational in 18 divisions) and Chief Minister Model Composite Schools are expanding access to quality schooling. With a budgetary provision of around Rs 4,500 crore, 150 model composite schools are being established across districts, offering education from pre-primary to Class 12.Rapid Expansion of Skill and Technical EducationSkill development has emerged as a central pillar of education reform. The state has recorded rapid growth in technical institutions:3,310 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) have been established since 1947Of these, 668 ITIs were added between 2017 and 2025Polytechnic institutions increased from 526 in 2016–17 to over 2,100 in 2024–25Training and employment outcomes under the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission have improved substantially. Between 2017–18 and 2023–24:Over 14 lakh youth were trainedMore than 5.3 lakh youth secured employmentAnnual averages during this period nearly doubled compared to pre-2017 years.Secondary Education Infrastructure and Sports PromotionThe state currently has over 29,000 secondary schools. New government intercolleges and high schools have been established, while hundreds of existing institutions are being upgraded under the Project Alankar scheme with libraries, laboratories, classrooms, drinking water facilities and sports infrastructure.Indoor mini stadiums are being constructed in government intercolleges to promote sports awareness, while ICT labs and Atal Tinkering Labs are expanding hands-on learning.Higher Education Reforms under NEP 2020Higher education reforms gained momentum after the implementation of NEP 2020, which Uttar Pradesh began adopting from 2021–22. Multidisciplinary education, credit-based systems, flexible entry-exit options and uniform academic calendars have been introduced across institutions.Digital empowerment has been a key focus:Over 41 lakh students registered under the Academic Bank of CreditSmart classrooms, e-libraries and ERP-based governance systems are implemented across universities and collegesQuality benchmarks have improved, with more institutions securing NAAC accreditation and representation in national rankings. Paid internships, apprenticeships and mandatory skill courses have strengthened the employability focus.A Shift Towards Future-Ready EducationFrom a system once constrained by limited access and weak infrastructure, Uttar Pradesh’s education sector has transitioned towards a digital, skill-oriented and employment-linked framework. Officials say the reforms reflect a long-term effort to align education with innovation, self-reliance and inclusive growth, positioning the state for future demographic and economic challenges.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos“Worst Kind of Discrimination in PoJK”: UKPNP Chairman Flags Deepening CrisisNo Compromise On Terror: PM Modi, Benjamin Netanyahu Reaffirm India Israel Strategic PartnershipOwaisi Slams MCD Demolition, Says Turkman Gate Land Fully Belongs To WaqfNehru Catered To Liaquat Ali Khan, Ignored Somnath History: BJP MP Sudhanshu TrivediUS FARA Filings Expose How Pakistan Lobbied Washington To Somehow Stop India’s Operation Sindoor’Gave Fundamental Confidence’: Jaishankar Cites Nuclear Tests, Stresses Strategic AutonomyBangladesh: Hindu Man Mithun Sarkar Drowns After Jumping In Canal To Escape Chasing MobPakistan Army’s Daring Challenge Targets India, Afghanistan As Terror Allegations And Threats Rise’2026 Will See An Upswing’: EAM Jaishankar Hails India-EU Ties Amid FTA TalksAustralian Senator Slams Albanese Govt Over Fake Degrees Linked To Indian Students Visa Row Exposed123Photostories6 classic non-vegetarian Cutlets to enjoy during winter monthsVijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ to Prabhas’ ‘The Raja Saab’: Biggest South releases for Pongal 2026Can you guess the temples and places featured on INR 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 currency notes?How to add smoky flavour to winter dishes without using a tandoor at home”I just read somewhere that 20% of American meals are consumed in a car!” Sadhguru shares tips on the right way to eat foodRepublic Day 2026 long weekend travel ideas from Delhi-NCR; places to go, things to doMumbai’s busiest suburban corridor on Western Railway is set for major safety upgrade: What we knowBengaluru breathes easy: Hebbal flyover cuts traffic chaos to just 2 minutes (Photos)7 habits of parents that raise kinder kidsShivlings in Kashi Associated With the Nine Planets123Hot PicksBudget 2026Venezuela NewsGold rate todayStock Market TodayCigarette price hikePublic holidays January 2026Bank Holidays JanuaryTop TrendingNikki Bella BoyfriendTommy Fleetwood and Clare FleetwoodKarl Anthony Town FianceeIndia Apache DealDelhi Air PollutionWipro Work From Office RuleMustafizur RahmanGreenland RowVenezuela Presidential Palace GunfireHouse GOP members

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh’s education sector has witnessed a far-reaching transformation over the past eight years, marked by expanded digital access, improved infrastructure, higher enrolment, rapid growth in skill education and structural reforms in higher education.Government data indicate that sustained policy focus since 2017 has led to measurable improvements across school, secondary, technical and university…

Read More
Why are Tripura schools shut till January 10?

Why are Tripura schools shut till January 10?

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Why are Tripura schools shut till January 10? Schools across Tripura will remain closed till January 10, 2026, as the state faces an intense spell of cold weather accompanied by dense fog warnings. The decision was taken by the Tripura government as a precautionary measure to protect students from prolonged exposure to low temperatures and…

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Vivek Oberoi praises ‘Dhurandhar’ after it becomes the highest grossing Hindi movie, compares it to ‘Animal’: ‘It has not just pushed the envelope but ripped it apart’

Vivek Oberoi praises ‘Dhurandhar’ after it becomes the highest grossing Hindi movie, compares it to ‘Animal’: ‘It has not just pushed the envelope but ripped it apart’

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Aditya Dhar’s ‘Dhurandhar’ has scripted history by emerging as the highest-earning Hindi film of all time, with its net India collection crossing the collection of ‘Pushpa 2, which had amassed Rs 830 crore. As the film continues its remarkable run, actor Vivek Oberoi has shared an impassioned review, drawing comparisons with Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘Animal’.Taking to…

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Shraddha Kapoor’s makeup-free look is an instant hit in a time of ‘filtered beauties’ |

Shraddha Kapoor’s makeup-free look is an instant hit in a time of ‘filtered beauties’ |

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Shraddha Kapoor was recently spotted in Mumbai looking effortlessly natural and makeup-free, a refreshing sight amidst heavily filtered celebrity photos. Her simple attire and bare face, showcasing her real skin, resonated with the public, who are reportedly tired of overly edited images. This genuine embrace of her natural appearance is being celebrated as a bold…

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Are Indian finance degrees keeping up with global standards? An expert explains

Are Indian finance degrees keeping up with global standards? An expert explains

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Indian universities have expanded finance education rapidly over the past decade. Enrolments are up, course offerings are wider, and institutional ambition is clear. Yet when measured against international finance credentials and workplace expectations, gaps remain. According to Sripal Jain, Co-founder of Simandhar Education, the issue is not intent but structure.Jain has trained thousands of students…

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