Union Cabinet approves Rs 59,048 crore scholarship for SC students

 

Cabinet committee approved a total investment of Rs 59,048 cr of which the Centre would spend Rs 35,534 cr, amounting to 60% of the total scheme & the balance would be spent by the states.

Education News: The Cabinet committee on economic affairs has approved changes in the centrally-sponsored post matric scholarship to benefit more than forty million scheduled caste (SC) students in the next five years to enable them successfully complete their higher education.

The Cabinet committee approved a total investment of Rs 59,048 crore of which the Centre would spend Rs 35,534 crore, amounting to 60 per cent of the total scheme, and the balance would be spent by the states.

This replaced the existing ‘committed liability’ system and brings greater involvement of the union government in this crucial scheme.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday also approved the merger of four government film media units with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) with an aim of converging activities and resources and better coordination to ensure synergy and efficiency in achieving the mandate of the bodies.

Along with these, the Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved an ordinance extending protection from punitive action to unauthorised colonies, JJ clusters and constructions in Delhi’s rural areas built on agriculture land for another three years, Union minster Prakash Javadekar said.

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CBSE Board exams 2021 after February, says Education minister

 CBSE has reduced the syllabus by 30 per cent for the 2021 board examinations.

Education News: Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ on Tuesday ruled out conducting CBSE board examinations for classes 10 and 12 till February next year in view of Covid-19 situation. He said a decision on conducting the CBSE board exams 2021 would be taken later after due consultations and assessment of the situation.

“Keeping the current situation in mind, it has been decided that the board exams for classes 10 and 12 will not be conducted till February 2021. A decision on the exam schedule will be taken later after assessment of situation and more consultations,” the education minister said during an online interaction with teachers.

According to Nishank, CBSE has reduced the syllabus by 30 per cent for the 2021 board examinations. CBSE officials have clarified that there is no proposal to hold the CBSE board exams 2021 online.

A detailed plan for the conduct of CBSE examinations 2021 will be prepared according to the health protocol orders issued by the Ministries of Health and Home Affairs.

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Indian Edtech startups see investment of $2.22 bn in 2020

 

Byju’s and Unacademy have raised the most capital, $2.32 billion and $354 mllion, respectively, in 2020.

Education News: Indian Edtech startups have seen a total investment of $2.22 billion in 2020 as compared to $553 million in 2019, according to Indian Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (IVCA) and PGA Labs data.

The IVCA report ‘The Great Un-Lockdown: Indian Edtech’ released on Thursday stated that 92 players received funding in 2020, out of which 61 players received seed funding.

Byju’s and Unacademy have raised the most capital, $2.32 billion and $354 mllion, respectively, in 2020, while B2B edtech received a total funding of $31 million in 2017-2020.

The report estimates that education is a $117 billion market in India with around 360 million learners in 2019-20. The report further said around $49 billion is spent on school education, 66% of which is spent on primary education and 27% on secondary education. Around $42 billion is spent on supplementary education, which primarily comprises private coaching and test preparation.

The education and edtech market can be divided into 5 segments: pre-K, K-12 and test preparation, higher education, continued learning and B2B edtech.

According to the report, the education market is expected to grow 2x to $225 billion by FY25 at a CAGR of 14 per cent over FY20-25.

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JEE Main 2021 from 23rd February 2021; check exam details

 

JEE-Mains exam for admission to engineering colleges will be held four times a year starting 2021 to offer flexibility to students.

Education News: The first session of JEE Main 2021 will be conducted from February 23 to 26, followed by rounds in March, April and May, and the JEE Main result 2021 will be declared within five days from the last day of exams, announced Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank on Wednesday. From the next academic year, JEE Main will be held in multiple shifts – February, March, April and May.

The JEE-Mains exam for admission to engineering colleges will be held four times a year starting 2021 to offer flexibility to students and a chance to improve their scores, according to Union Education Minister. Students can appear in all the four sessions, and their best score in JEE Main 2021 will be considered as final. The first shift of JEE Main examination will be from 9 am to 12 pm while the second will be from 3 pm to 6 pm.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will release the JEE Main admit card 2021 in the first week of January.

JEE Main 2021 schedule: Important dates

• Application process begins: December 15, 2020
• Last day to apply: January 15, 2021
• Last day to pay fee: January 16, 2021
• Correction in particulars: January 18-21, 20201
• Admit card: 1st week of February

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GATE 2021: How to change exam centre and other details

 

The GATE 2021 examination will be conducted on February 5, 6, 7, 12, 13 and 14, next year.

Education News: The procedure to change choice of examination city/centre (for successfully registered candidates only) in GOAPS portal for Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, (GATE) 2021 will end on Tuesday i.e, December 15. Candidates who successfully filled the application form for GATE 2021 can change the exam city/centre latest by today on the official website at gate.iitb.ac.in. The facility to change the choice of exam city opened on December 14. GATE 2021 will be held for 27 subjects.

Candidates need to visit the GATE 2021 application window and login using their enrolment IDs and passwords to change the GATE 2021 exam centre. The GATE 2021 examination will be conducted on February 5, 6, 7, 12, 13 and 14, next year at various centres across the country. The GATE examination will be held in two shifts (forenoon and afternoon) and the GATE 2021 result is scheduled to be released on March 22, 2021.

It is important to note that the schedule of the GATE 2021 examination may change depending on the Covid-19 situation. IIT Bombay is the organising institute for GATE examination.

Steps to make corrections in GATE 2021

• Visit the official website at gate.iitb.ac.in
• Click on – ‘GATE Online Application Processing System’ link
• Log in using your enrollment id/email address and password
• Make changes for ‘GATE 2021 exam city/centre’ choice in the application form

GATE 2021 important dates

• Organising institute: Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT) Bombay
• Exam date: From February 5 and February 7, and from February 12 to February 14, 2021
• Mode of exam: Computer Based Test (CBT).
• Total number of subject papers: 27

Study Circle is the pioneer in training students for the civil service in Maharashtra. Its books, magazines, weeklies and notes are highly sought after as they give very good results.

Top Places to Visit in Maharashtra

These top Maharashtra tourist places offer a diverse mix of ancient cave temples, forts, mountains, wineries, and beaches.

India Excursion: Vacations can be pretty and relaxing, especially if you plan a trip to one of the best places in India, Maharashtra…a place where the coast is always sultry, the hills are always scenic and the cities always tourist friendly. However, in order to let you have the best vacation, we have shortlisted the top places to see in Maharashtra especially one week long trip.

1 .Alibag

• Alibag is known for its pristine beaches like the Varsoli Beach and Nagaon Beach. It is located 100 km away from Mumbai. This coastal hotspot is home to Kanakeshwar forest, and it allures many tourists and travellers for its sight of rare and exotic animals and trekking options. Kolaba fort, built in the 17th century, is another tourist attraction in Alibag.

2. Mahabaleshwar

• Known for its scenic charm and many vantage points, Mahabaleshwar is one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra in November. Located at an altitude of 1400 m, Mahabaleshwar has many viewpoints. However, Arthur’s Seat offers an alluring view of the Elphinstone Point, the Jor valley, and the Wilson point. Apart from the majestic landscapes, Mahabaleshwar also hosts many temples like Panchganga Temple and Old Mahabaleshwar Temple, to name a few.

3. Panchgani

• Located about 100 km from Pune, this stunning hill-station sits amidst five mountains of the Sahyadri Range. Extending from the Deccan plateau, Panchgani is the second highest volcanic plateau in Asia and is also locally known as “Table Land.” Panchgani offers a stunning view of the Parsi Point and Dhom Dam lake, from one of its famous spots, Sydney Point.

4. Tadoba National Park

• Tadoba is an area spanning 625 km, hosting a national park and a Wildlife sanctuary. The Tadoba was made a National Park in the year, 1995, as an initiative to preserve Tigers. Apart from tigers, Tadoba National Park is also home to many rare and exotic animals. You can also opt for a wild safari to spot the ever-glorious Bengal Tigers and migratory birds like the Serpent eagle and endangered reptiles like the Indian Star Tortoise.

5. Aurangabad

• With Ajanta and Ellora Caves on top of the must visit places in India, this fabulous Maharashtra destination of Aurangabad must be on your go-to list. While these above-mentioned caves give recognition to this place, Bibi Ka Maqbara, a replica of the Taj Mahal, gives a chance to the visitors to hum romantic songs as you explore. The picturesque landscape of Aurangabad possesses some amazing places to spend solitary time with nature, and of course, its religious sites and historical monuments that date back to 3rd century BC are worth paying a visit.

6. Matheran

• Entrenched in the Western Ghats range, Matheran is an environment-friendly place that does not allow any vehicle, and thus, walking or taking a pony ride are the options you can choose from. This popular getaway in Maharashtra is ideal to offer you respite from the hectic urban life. Enjoy basking in the warm sun, panoramic views of the rolling hills and pleasant weather that can compel you to extend your holiday. The major tourist attractions in Matheran that you can go for a sightseeing tour are Echo Point, Louisa Point, and Alexander Point as well as Charlotte Lake and Vikatgad Peb Fort.

7. Nashik

• A visit to some of the historical attractions and holy places like Trimbakeshwar and Muktidham Temples is the must thing to do here. Also, not to miss out is a visit to Pandavleni Caves which is adorned in vihara style of architecture. Nasik is also associated with the Hindu Mythology of Ramayana as it is believed the three saintly figures – Ram, Lakshman, and Sita dwelled in this land. Nonetheless, to offer a rather relaxing and new experience, 30 minutes away from the heart of the city is Sula Vineyards. Sample some wine brewed in the Sula winery and oh my! you will feel like being in heaven with Gods.

How to reach Vaishno Devi

 

One of the most important pilgrimage sites in India lies among the mountains and clouds. Located at Trikuta Mountains in Jammu, Vaishno Devi he most popular and widely visited Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu Goddess.

India Excursion: In 2017 itself, more than 81 lakh people have visited Vaishno Devi temple. These numbers do not lie and it has given a boost to Kashmir tourism. Being located in one of the most breath-taking locations, Vaishno Devi is among one of the best places to visit in Kashmir.

Here are the convenient options to reach Vaishno Devi by air, road and train.

BY AIR

• Jammu Airport, or Sarwari Airport, is the nearest airport that serves Katra. Regular air services ply for Katra through this airport. Once you have touched down, take a taxi from the airport and voila, you reach Katra in an hour. Buses are also available for this route. In Katra, however, helicopter services are available for the main Bhawan till Sanjhhi Chat, which is some 5 km. from the Holy Bhawan.

BY TRAIN

• Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station at Katra is the nearest railway station from the holy cave of Vaishno Devi. Regular train services ply from almost every major city of India, which earlier stopped at Jammu Tawi. Luxurious accommodation is also available just near the railway station. Sree Shakti train that starts from Delhi on Friday evenings and returns to Delhi on Sunday morning is the best way to reach Vaishno Devi.

BY ROAD

• Regular bus services ply to and fro the base of the pilgrimage, that is Katra. Buses, at extremely affordable rates, are available from places like New Delhi, Amritsar, Jammu Tawi as the list goes on. You can also take a shared taxi or cab once you’ve arrived at Jammu Tawi.

Best Places to Visit in Kashmir

 

Kashmir is heaven on earth with its alpine peaks and snow-clad ranges. From trekking to solo trips to leisurely family vacations, Kashmir is a complete package.

India Excursion: An unbelievably beautiful landscape, valley of flowers, serene lakes and amazing trekking trails, Kashmir has a little of everything to offer to its visitors. Looking to decode Kashmir for your next trip?

Here is a complete list of places you must visit during your tour:

1.Srinagar

• The capital of J&K, Srinagar is one of the most beautiful places in Kashmir. Take a shikara ride on the peaceful Dal Lake, view the city from the top of Shankaracharya Temple and stay in the iconic house boats on your next trip. You’ll definitely fall in love with Kashmir! Srinagar is home to the Shalimar Gardens that are on the back of the Rs. 10 Indian Currency Note.

2. Pahalgam

• Surrounded by Lidder Lake and Betaab Valley, Pahalgam is the place you visit to experience clear water rivers and exhilarating deep valleys. This place is famous for river rafting at Lidder Lake, golfing and shopping for traditional Kashmiri items.

3. Gulmarg

• Gulmarg is the snow paradise of Kashmir. This skier’s paradise is popular for having one of world’s highest and largest ropeways with an aerial distance of approx. 5kms. The view from top of the mountains at 3979 metres above sea level is bewildering. Snow falls are regular even during summer, giving every tourist a fair chance to enjoy the fall!

4. Sonmarg

• Sonmarg or ‘the meadow of gold’ has one of the most picturesque views in Kashmir. Snow-clad mountains, green grasslands and ponies to ride on, this place is what they call, ‘Jannat’ or heaven. Sonmarg is also one of the base points for starting the Amarnath Yatra. River rafting, zorbing, trekking are the various events conducted around the popular tourist spots. Sonmarg is inaccessible in winters due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.

5. Kashmir Valley

• Kashmir Valley, the largest Himalayan valley, is an elliptical saucer shaped landmark of Kashmir. Surrounded by the Karakoram and Pir Panjal ranges, Kashmir Valley has a mesmerising view in all the directions possible. This 140km long valley is the perfect spot for all trekkers and mountaineers alike!

Best places to visit in Jammu

 

Some of these amazing places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir and an unexplored destination which might surprise you with its adventuresome atmosphere.

India Excursion: You might be browsing through the internet to get good ideas about some places to visit and let me guess traveling to alluring hill stations of Northern India might somewhere be on the top of your list.  Let’s get into it.

1. Vaishno Devi

• Located at about 5200 ft. above the sea level, Vaishno Devi is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world. The cave-styled sanctorium is devoted to goddess Mahalakshmi and is visited by millions of devotees every year with a belief that whatever they wish for will come true if they visit there with a pure heart.

2. Bahu Fort

• Believed to be one of the oldest structures in the city of Jammu, Bahu Fort was built around 3000 years ago by Raja Bahulochan of the Dogra dynasty. This magnificent Fort stands tall on the banks of river Tawi and is a major tourist attraction.This fort provides history enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers with amazing opportunities to spend their share of time with nature and appreciate it.

3. Gulmarg

• Located at an altitude of about 2700 meters above the sea level, Gulmarg is an adventure hub of India popular for skiing and mountaineering. Popularly known as the “Heartland of winter sports in India”, Gulmarg is voted as Asia’s seventh best ski destination. Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and heli-skiing take place on the slopes of Mount Apharwat and are reachable by a Gondola lift.

4. Patnitop

• Located at about 6600 ft. above the sea level, Patnitop is a hilltop tourist attraction place in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir and is one of the most popular places to visit near Vaishno Devi. The dense woods, lush greenery of Pines, and tracks that lead to pockets of scenic views make it a perfect destination for adventure activities.

5. Mansar lake

• Encompassed by the dense forest cover of the deodar forests and archaic temples, Mansar Lake is a popular excursion site in Jammu and is one of the popular places to visit near Vaishno Devi. The Sheshnag shrine on the eastern bank of the lake makes it a sacred place for the newlyweds who perform three Parikrama (circum-ambulations) around the lake to seek the blessings of Sheshnag, the lord of serpents. The temples on the shore of Mansar Lake makes it a popular spot among the devotees.

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Best places to visit Leh Ladakh

 

This wonderful place boasts of some amazing allures including palaces, lakes, and monasteries.

India Excursion: A dream destination for many, Ladakh is a wonderful place, which is an amalgam of leisure experiences and adventure opportunities. Located at an altitude of 3542 meters above sea level in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, it boasts of immense scenic beauty. 

Start scrolling through the Top Places To Visit Leh Ladakh!

 1. Hemis National Park

• Tucked in the eastern Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, Hemis National Park is called the Snow Leopard Capital of India. Established in 1981, this national park is best known for sheltering the highest density of snow leopard in the world. Another highlight of Hemis is that it is the only national park towards the north of the Himalayas. Besides, it is home to 16 mammal species and 73 bird species as per records.

2. Diskit Monastery

• The list of sightseeing places in Ladakh can never be complete without the mention of Diskit Monastery. Dressed down in white, the gompa is Nubra Valley’s oldest and largest monastery. It just takes one visit to feel enlightened as the aura is soothing and healing. Diskit Monastery was founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, an ardent disciple of Tsong Khapa, founder of Gelugpa.

3. Pangong Lake

• Placed at a height of 4350 m on the Indo-China border, Pangong Lake is one of the most popular attractions in Ladakh. Also known as the Hollow Lake or Pangong Tso, this is one of Asia’s largest saltwater lakes. It covers an area of approximately 100 km. While two-thirds of this lake is in Tibet (Chinese territory), one-third of it lies in eastern Ladakh. Just 160 km from Leh city, it has blessed with breathtaking surroundings. 

4. Shanti Stupa

• Around 5 km from Leh, Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Chorten, located on a hilltop in Chanspa, which was built between 1983 and 1991. Overlooking the Leh town, it is one of the best attractions in Leh. For celebrating the completion of 2500 years of Buddhism and to promote world peace, this stupa was commissioned by Japanese monks. 

5. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

• Founded way back in 1430, Namgyal Tsemo Monastery is located in the background of the Leh Palace. The monastery enjoys a wonderful setting and thus is one of the most popular places to visit in Leh Ladakh. The views of the plains, surrounding snow-covered peaks of the Zanskar mountain range, and the River Indus are stunning.

6. Khardung La Pass

• Known as the ‘Gateway to Nubra and Shyok Valleys’, Khardung La is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, at an elevation of 5359 m above the sea level. One of the 12 best places to visit in Leh Ladakh, it is around 40 km from Leh. Also called the ‘Pass of Lower Castle’, it opened for vehicles in 1988. This road is quite popular amid motorbiking enthusiasts. 

7. Zanskar Valley

• Lying in the remote corner of Ladakh, Zanskar Valley is a pristine hill retreat with wonderful Tibetan-style monasteries, surrounded by snow-covered mountainous peaks. Strong Buddhist culture and picturesque landscape are the two allures. The views of Drang-Drung Glacier is simply mesmerizing from here. The valley also has 2 small placid alpine lakes.

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The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) is a body created by the Constitution of India under article 315 to select officers for civil service jobs in the Indian state of Maharashtra according to the merits of the applicants and the rules of reservation.

The Head Office of the MPSC is located at the Maharashtra State Capital Mumbai.

Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) is a Constitutional Body established Under Article 315 of Constitution of India which provides a smooth and efficient functioning of the Government of Maharashtra by providing suitable candidates for various Government posts and advise them on various service matters like formulation of Recruitment Rules, advise on promotions, transfers and disciplinary actions etc.

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