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New Delhi, 12: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveiled the Indian Standards 2024 report, marking the ninth consecutive release of the Indian Ranking of Higher Education Institutions. In this year’s National Institutional Ranking of Higher Education Institutions-2024, 80 institutions from Maharashtra were recognized across 13 categories, reflecting excellence in education, learning, research, and inclusion.

Notably, Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) was ranked the third-best university in the state. The rankings also highlighted 11 institutions from Maharashtra among the top 100 overall institutions in India, with Indian Institute of Technology Bombay securing the 30th spot. Additionally, 10 universities from the state were listed among the top 100 in the country, with Homi Bhabha National Institute leading at 16th place.

The report introduced new categories this year, including Best Universities in States, where SPPU achieved third place. Maharashtra also excelled in research and engineering categories, with five institutions each ranked among the top in the country. Furthermore, four colleges and nine management institutes from the state were featured in the top 100 rankings, showcasing Maharashtra’s strong presence in higher education.

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In a world where artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming industries, a 15-year-old prodigy from Kerala is making waves with his remarkable contributions to the field. Uday Shankar, hailed as the “Wizard of AI,” has an inspiring story that showcases his unwavering passion for science and technology, even when it meant stepping away from traditional education.

Uday’s journey into the tech world began when he made the bold decision to drop out of school in the eighth grade to fully dedicate himself to his love of AI and software development. Despite this unconventional path, Uday’s brilliance shone through as he quickly rose to prominence, earning the prestigious role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Urav Advanced Learning System Pvt Ltd, an AI start-up based in Kochi, Kerala.

As the CTO of Urav, Uday oversees the technical branch of the company, guiding its vision and development. Under his leadership, Urav has become a hub for innovation, offering certificate programs in cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality, and game development. Uday’s expertise has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum, particularly in advanced Python coding and Unity 3D game development courses for young learners.

Uday’s path is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. With the support of his parents, Dr. Ravi Kumar and Srikumari, Uday has pursued his education through open schooling, allowing him to balance his academic aspirations with his role at Urav. He has earned certificates from prestigious institutions like IIT Kanpur and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, further solidifying his reputation as a young genius in the tech world.

But Uday’s accomplishments don’t stop there. He has authored four research papers, secured three patents, and developed an impressive portfolio of about fifteen games, nine computer programs, and seven apps. His innovative spirit was recognized with the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Ignited Mind Children Creativity and Innovation Award 2030, an honor that underscores his impact on the field of AI.

One of Uday’s most notable projects is the development of an app called “Hi Friends,” which was inspired by a personal experience. When Uday struggled to communicate with his grandmother in Palakkad, he saw an opportunity to create an AI-based solution. The app allows users to create avatars of loved ones and communicate with them in any language, opening up new possibilities for AI in multilingual communication. This breakthrough led to the creation of a multilingual kiosk that could be used in public transportation systems like trains and metros.

Uday’s innovation extends beyond AI communication tools. He founded his start-up, Urav, four years ago after teaching himself Python programming online. Among his other notable projects is “Clean Alka,” an AI chatbot that interacts with users to generate images, and “Bhashini,” a patented app that allows users to manage multiple languages seamlessly. In his commitment to social impact, Uday has also developed a free app designed to assist visually impaired individuals in navigating public spaces.

Uday Shankar’s story is a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to innovation. His journey from a young tech enthusiast to a leading figure in AI is a testament to the boundless potential of youth when passion and talent are nurtured. As Uday continues to push the boundaries of technology, his work promises to inspire countless others to follow their dreams and make their mark on the world.

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The ongoing debate over the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on sub-categorization within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) reservations has ignited significant political discourse. At the heart of this controversy is the concept of the “creamy layer” within these communities—a notion that has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.

Supreme Court’s Judgment: A Double-Edged Sword?

Earlier this month, a seven-judge bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, delivered a landmark judgment permitting states to sub-classify communities within the SC and ST lists based on empirical data. While this decision was largely hailed as a step towards ensuring more equitable distribution of resources, it also introduced the controversial idea of applying the “creamy layer” concept to these historically marginalized groups.

Justice BR Gavai, in a concurring judgment, argued that states should evolve a policy to identify the creamy layer within SCs and STs and deny them the benefits of reservation. This suggestion has sparked a heated debate, with many, including Kharge, condemning the idea as fundamentally flawed and detrimental to the very purpose of reservations.

Kharge’s Stand: Protecting the Essence of Reservation

Mallikarjun Kharge has been vocal in his opposition to the Supreme Court’s observation regarding the creamy layer. He asserts that this concept, if implemented, would undermine the original intent of reservations, which was to combat the entrenched social discrimination and untouchability that members of SC and ST communities have faced for centuries.

“By bringing the creamy layer concept, you are effectively denying benefits to those who have been the most marginalized,” Kharge stated, highlighting the persistent social inequalities that continue to plague these communities. He argued that the basis for reservation has always been to address untouchability and social injustice, not economic status.

Kharge’s critique extends beyond the judiciary to the legislative domain. He believes that the government should have proactively brought forth legislation to nullify the Supreme Court’s observations on the creamy layer, thereby preserving the integrity of the reservation system. “If the government can push through other bills in a matter of hours, there is no reason why they couldn’t have addressed this issue in the same session,” he remarked.

The Broader Implications: A Call for Unity

Kharge’s comments come at a time when the political landscape is fraught with discussions on the future of reservations in India. He has called for a unified stance against the creamy layer concept, urging all stakeholders to ensure that this part of the judgment does not gain traction. According to Kharge, the ongoing privatization of public sector jobs, coupled with existing vacancies that are not being filled, further exacerbates the challenges faced by SC and ST communities in securing employment.

Government’s Position: A Reaffirmation of Constitutional Provisions

In response to the Supreme Court’s judgment, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has reiterated its commitment to the constitutional provisions laid down by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The government has maintained that there is no provision for a creamy layer in SC and ST reservations as per the Constitution, signaling its intent to uphold the current framework.

A Complex Issue with No Easy Answers

The debate over the creamy layer in SC and ST reservations touches on deeply entrenched social issues that go beyond mere economic criteria. While the Supreme Court’s judgment seeks to address disparities within these communities, it has also opened up a complex discussion on the future of affirmative action in India.

As the Congress continues its consultations with intellectuals, experts, and NGOs, the political and social ramifications of this judgment will likely be felt for some time. Kharge’s firm stand against the creamy layer concept highlights the broader concern that any dilution of the reservation policy could undermine decades of progress towards social equality.

In a country where untouchability and discrimination are still realities for many, the battle to protect the essence of reservations is far from over.

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Spain clinched the gold medal in men’s football at the Paris Olympics after a dramatic final against France. Despite a nail-biting finish, Spain emerged victorious, adding the Olympic title to their earlier Euros triumph.

The match was a rollercoaster, with France taking an early lead due to a goalkeeping mishap. However, Spain quickly turned the game around, scoring three goals in a swift ten-minute burst. France mounted a fierce comeback in the final minutes of regulation, including a controversial VAR-awarded penalty that leveled the score. The contest was ultimately decided in extra time, where Spain sealed the win and completed a remarkable double.

Chelsea-bound striker Samu Omorodion, who was part of Spain’s squad, did not feature in the final, likely due to his impending transfer to Chelsea. Omorodion made his mark earlier in the tournament by starting one match and scoring a goal. He will join Chelsea soon and compare medals with fellow Blues player Marc Cucurella. Barcelona’s Fermín López led Spain’s goal-scoring with six goals throughout the tournament.

In related news, the USWNT, managed by Emma Hayes, is set to compete for gold against Brazil tomorrow in what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the women’s football tournament.

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The Paris Olympics has welcomed a vibrant and dynamic addition to its roster of sports: Breaking, also known as breakdancing. Making its Olympic debut on Friday at 7:30 pm, this electrifying dance discipline is set to captivate audiences with its fusion of athleticism and artistry.

What Is Breaking?

Breaking, the official term for what is popularly known as breakdancing, is a high-energy sport combining intricate dance moves with athletic prowess. Rooted in the hip-hop culture of New York, Breaking is a one-on-one battle where athletes showcase their skills through a series of spins, twists, and gravity-defying moves. The competition involves solo performances judged on creativity, technique, and the ability to impress the audience and panel of judges.

Why Is Breaking at the Olympics?

The International Olympic Committee’s decision to include Breaking in the Paris 2024 Games aligns with a broader trend of integrating sports that appeal to younger audiences and reflect contemporary urban culture. Breaking first gained international attention at the 2018 Summer Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, and its success there paved the way for its inclusion in the main Olympic program. This debut is a testament to the sport’s growing global popularity and its alignment with the Olympic values of inclusivity and innovation.

The Olympic Stage for Breaking

Set against the iconic backdrop of Place de la Concorde, the largest public square in Paris, Breaking will feature both men’s and women’s events. The competition will see 16 B-Boys and 16 B-Girls go head-to-head in thrilling solo battles. Athletes will utilize a range of power moves—such as windmills, the 6-step, and freezes—while adapting their performances to the beat of the DJ’s tracks, aiming to secure top marks from the judges.

Breaking vs. Breakdancing: What’s the Difference?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, “Breaking” pays homage to the sport’s origins, referencing the breaks in DJ tracks when dancers would showcase their moves. “Breakdancing” is the more familiar term to many, but both refer to the same high-energy dance form that blends technical skill with creative expression.

What to Expect

The debut of Breaking promises to be a highlight of the Paris Games, offering a fresh and dynamic spectacle. As athletes take to the floor, the combination of athleticism and dance will provide a new dimension to the Olympic experience, showcasing a unique blend of cultural and physical expression.

As the world tunes in to witness this historic debut, Breaking is set to make a lasting impression on the Olympic stage, further cementing its place in the global sporting arena. The Paris 2024 Olympics is not just a celebration of traditional sports but also a platform for showcasing the diverse and evolving landscape of competitive athletics.

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In a move that bodes well for the real estate sector, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 6.5% for the ninth consecutive time. This decision, announced on August 8, aligns seamlessly with the recent announcement on August 7 regarding indexation benefits on the sale of property, offering a double boost to the real estate market.

The RBI’s choice to maintain the current policy rate offers much-needed stability to the housing market, particularly at a time when food inflation remains a concern. With the repo rate holding steady, home loan EMIs will remain manageable for both current and prospective homeowners, a development that could drive an uptick in home sales, especially in the price-sensitive affordable housing segment.

“The monetary policy committee decided by a 4:2 majority to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 6.5%. Consequently, the standing deposit facility (SDF) rate remains at 6.25%, and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the bank rate at 6.75%,” said RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das during the policy announcement.

Real estate experts are optimistic about the potential impact of this decision. Anuj Puri, Chairman of ANAROCK Group, noted, “Maintaining interest rates offers consistency in borrowing costs, which will prompt more aspiring homebuyers to consider taking the plunge—thus driving demand in the housing market. With interest rates staying steady, EMIs will remain manageable, potentially leading to increased home sales.”

The RBI’s decision also coincides with the recent announcement of indexation benefits, which is expected to have a positive impact on the property market. The indexation benefits allow for adjustments to the purchase price, taking inflation into account, which in turn reduces capital gains tax upon the sale of property. This tax advantage makes real estate investments more appealing, further spurring demand and capital flow into the housing sector.

Samantak Das, Chief Economist and Head of Research and REIS, India, JLL, emphasized the significance of the RBI’s steady approach: “The RBI’s intention in keeping rates unchanged is to ensure a stable interest rate environment and price stability, which is crucial for sustained growth. However, future rate cuts in India will primarily be influenced by domestic factors.”

Looking ahead, experts believe that the sentiment in the real estate sector is likely to remain positive throughout the upcoming festive season. The combination of stable interest rates and recent government initiatives, such as the rationalization of stamp duty charges and concessions for women homebuyers, is expected to further support this momentum.

Vimal Nadar, Senior Director and Head of Research at Colliers India, remarked, “Strong visibility in financing charges should help homebuyers and developers alike in the upcoming festive season. The partial withdrawal of the applicability of the revised LTCG tax arising out of the sale of land and buildings retrospectively provides elbow room to affect housing sales with minimal tax outgo. This is likely to buoy investor and homeowner sentiment, benefiting the real estate sector at large.”

Real estate developers have welcomed the RBI’s decision, viewing it as a positive signal for the industry. G Hari Babu, National President of NAREDCO, expressed confidence in the stable environment created by the unchanged repo rate and the RBI’s forecast of 7.2% GDP growth for FY25. “With steady borrowing costs, home loans become more affordable, which is likely to boost demand in the housing market, especially during the upcoming festive season,” he said.

The RBI’s balanced approach to economic management, amidst global economic uncertainties, has reassured investors and provided a stable backdrop for the real estate sector to thrive. As the festive season approaches, the current status quo on the repo rate is expected to further support the momentum in the housing market, creating a conducive environment for both homebuyers and developers.

In conclusion, the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate steady is a welcome development for the real estate sector, offering stability and predictability in borrowing costs. Combined with recent government initiatives, this move is likely to boost demand in the housing market, particularly in the affordable segment, and position real estate as a strong avenue for long-term wealth growth.

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A thrilling display of athleticism and speed – American teenager Sam Watson set a new world record in the relatively new Olympic event of sport climbing. On Tuesday, Watson clocked an astonishing 4.75 seconds in the speed climbing qualification rounds at the Paris Olympics, breaking his own previous record of 4.79 seconds, which he set earlier this year at a World Cup event in China. This incredible feat also earned him the distinction of the fastest time ever recorded in a timed Olympic sport.

Sport climbing, which made its Olympic debut in Tokyo 2021, is still a novel event for many spectators. It was initially introduced as a combined event featuring three distinct disciplines: bouldering, lead climbing, and speed climbing. Bouldering involves climbing short, technical routes without a rope, lead climbing requires athletes to clip a rope to protection points along the way, and speed climbing focuses purely on how quickly climbers can ascend a 15-meter wall.

For the Paris Games, sport climbing has been restructured into two separate medal opportunities: one combining bouldering and lead climbing, and the other dedicated solely to speed climbing. This change came in response to criticism from athletes and fans who felt that the combined event in Tokyo did not adequately showcase the unique skills required for each discipline. Many argued that forcing climbers to compete across all three specialities created an unfair “circus” that diminished the technical aspects of the sport.

In speed climbing, athletes compete head-to-head, racing to the top of the wall in a bracket-style elimination format. The climbers with the slowest times are progressively eliminated until one victor emerges. This high-octane format not only tests raw speed but also the mental fortitude and composure of the athletes under intense pressure.

Watson, an 18-year-old from Texas, has been a standout in the sport, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible. His latest record-breaking performance has cemented his status as a rising star in the climbing world. In the quarterfinals of the men’s speed event, Watson will face New Zealand’s Julian David, with the eyes of the world watching to see if he can maintain his blistering pace.

The restructuring of sport climbing into distinct disciplines for the Paris Olympics has been widely praised, allowing athletes to demonstrate their expertise in their preferred specialities. This move has also brought more clarity and excitement to the sport, with spectators able to appreciate the unique challenges and skills involved in each event.

Sam Watson’s record-breaking achievement not only highlights his incredible talent but also underscores the growing popularity and competitive spirit of sport climbing. As the sport continues to evolve, athletes like Watson are sure to inspire the next generation of climbers to reach new heights.

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August 6, 2024, has been etched in history as “Neeraj Chopra Day” by the official Olympics X handle, celebrating India’s golden boy who stormed into the men’s javelin final with a spectacular season-best throw of 89.34 meters. Neeraj Chopra, the defending champion and independent India’s only medalist in athletics, showcased his unparalleled prowess by topping the qualification round on Tuesday with just one attempt.

In Qualification B, Neeraj set the tone early, launching his first javelin far beyond the automatic qualification mark of 85 meters, ensuring his spot in the final. The final showdown is scheduled for Thursday at 11:55 pm IST, where the stakes and anticipation are higher than ever.

Reflecting on his performance, Neeraj remarked on the contrasting conditions between Tokyo and Paris. “In Tokyo, we threw in the sunshine and here it’s a bit cooler and the humidity is much lesser. Tokyo was much warmer and more humid than Paris. The big difference is that there are crowds here,” he shared.

Neeraj’s journey from a sunny Tokyo to a cooler Paris has been marked by relentless focus and determination. “Being the defending champion is motivation, and I need to be prepared. The mind should be focused on doing the job at hand,” Neeraj stated, underscoring his resolve to maintain his winning streak.

Despite his impressive throw in the qualification round, Neeraj remains cautious and grounded. “The final will be a cracker, the Tokyo final mark has already been surpassed by qualification. We were a little relaxed today. The burden and pressure will be much more in the final,” he noted, acknowledging the heightened competition ahead.

Addressing concerns about his fitness, Neeraj opened up about his recent injury struggles. “I have had a few issues with my groin, and that is why I did not take part in a lot of competitions. It is important to stay fit and reach the final,” he said, emphasizing the significance of maintaining peak physical condition.

As India rallies behind its golden boy, the anticipation for Thursday’s final builds. Neeraj Chopra’s remarkable entry into the finals not only cements his legacy but also inspires millions, reinforcing the spirit of determination and excellence. With the world watching, Neeraj is poised to deliver yet another unforgettable performance, marking another chapter in his illustrious career.

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In a promising development for the domestic IT sector, leading Indian companies such as Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, Wipro, HCL Technologies Ltd, and Tech Mahindra are in the spotlight following Microsoft’s robust Q4 performance. Microsoft’s revenue slightly surpassed US analyst estimates, with its operating margin aligning closely with Wall Street expectations. The tech giant hinted at increased infrastructure investments in FY25, aiming to meet the rising demand for its AI and cloud products.

Under the leadership of Satya Nadella, Microsoft projected a Q1FY25 revenue growth of 13.5-15.3% year-over-year (YoY), driven by an impressive 19.2-20.5% YoY growth in its Intelligent Cloud segment. This growth is further bolstered by a remarkable 28-29% constant currency (CC) YoY increase in Azure.

Nuvama Institutional Equities observed that Microsoft’s Azure business has been accelerating for five consecutive quarters, a significant turnaround after experiencing a six-quarter deceleration. “AI contributed 8% to Azure growth, and the overall pickup in cloud services is encouraging, signaling positive prospects for Indian IT services companies. We anticipate a surge in cloud spending in FY25, following a modest FY24, leading to higher overall growth,” Nuvama stated.

For the quarter, Microsoft reported revenue of $64.7 billion, marking a 16% YoY increase in CC terms. The Intelligent Cloud segment emerged as the fastest-growing area, with its revenue surging 20% YoY in CC to $28.5 billion, meeting the company’s guidance. Notably, Azure’s revenue grew by 30% CC YoY, including 800 basis points from AI services.

Microsoft’s management highlighted that the Azure consumption business is outpacing the overall Azure growth. The number of Azure AI customers has risen by 60% YoY, with the company now boasting over 60,000 Azure AI customers. The demand for Azure continues to exceed the available capacity, underscoring the platform’s robust market position.

“Productivity and business process revenue reached $20.3 billion, up 12% CC YoY. Office consumer revenue grew by 4% CC YoY, driven by sustained momentum in Microsoft 365 subscriptions, while Office commercial licensing saw a 7% CC YoY decline due to the ongoing shift to cloud offerings,” Microsoft reported.

The positive outlook for Microsoft’s cloud and AI segments bodes well for Indian IT giants, suggesting a fertile ground for growth as global demand for these technologies continues to rise. The increased investment in infrastructure and the steady rise in Azure’s customer base highlight a thriving market landscape, promising significant opportunities for Indian IT service providers in the coming fiscal year.

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In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and fled the capital Dhaka as violent clashes erupted, with vast crowds of protesters demanding her resignation. The intensity of the situation escalated quickly, leading to an unprecedented political crisis in the country.

Prime Minister Forced to Flee

Sheikh Hasina and her sister have reportedly left the Prime Minister’s official residence, Ganabhaban, seeking refuge in a safer location. The sudden departure highlights the severity of the unrest that has gripped the nation. According to a source, the Prime Minister intended to address the nation but was unable to do so due to the chaotic circumstances.

Protests Turn Violent

The streets of Dhaka have been engulfed in turmoil as protesters, fueled by frustration and anger, clashed with security forces. The demand for Hasina’s resignation has been a rallying cry for many who are dissatisfied with her leadership. The scenes of unrest have brought the city to a standstill, with reports of injuries and widespread property damage.

Political Crisis Deepens

The resignation of Sheikh Hasina marks a significant moment in Bangladesh’s political landscape. As a prominent figure who has led the country for many years, her departure amid such chaotic circumstances raises questions about the future stability of the nation. The opposition and civil society groups have intensified their calls for a change in leadership, reflecting a deep-seated desire for political reform.

International Concerns

The international community is watching the developments in Bangladesh closely. The violent clashes and political instability have raised concerns about the potential for further escalation. Diplomatic efforts are likely to be mobilized to encourage a peaceful resolution to the crisis and to support the restoration of order.

A Nation in Flux

As Bangladesh navigates this period of uncertainty, the road ahead remains unclear. The resignation of Sheikh Hasina, driven by intense public pressure and violent unrest, signifies a turning point. The country’s leaders and its people must now work towards rebuilding trust and establishing a path forward that ensures stability and democratic governance.

The resignation of Sheikh Hasina amidst violent protests marks a watershed moment in Bangladesh’s political history. As the nation grapples with the immediate aftermath, the focus will be on restoring peace and charting a course for a stable and democratic future.

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