Navrachana University Launches NUV Graduate School in July 2025

Vadodara, 15 February 2025: Navrachana University (NUV) in Vadodara has long been at the forefront of offering education that connects students with industry realities. With established programs like the M.Sc in Clinical Embryology, Navrachana University has earned a reputation for forward-thinking, relevant education. Building on this foundation, the university is excited to announce the launch of the NUV Graduate School in July 2025. This new initiative will offer cutting-edge master’s programs designed to meet the dynamic needs of modern industries, ensuring that students are equipped for both present and future success.

The NUV Graduate School will serve as a unified platform overseeing all existing and new postgraduate programs, offering a cohesive educational experience supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure. In addition to its current offerings, Navrachana University is introducing five new master’s programs: M.Sc in Computer Science (Co-op) program, M.Sc in Medicinal & Pharmaceutical Chemistry, M.Tech in Robotics and Automation, M.Sc in Food Science and Dietetics, and Master of Planning (Urban and Regional Planning). Planned and designed by experts in the respective disciplines with a focus on strong industry connections and international exposure, these courses will give aspirants the best of academic, research, internship, and industry experiences.

As industries evolve at breakneck speed, the demand for students equipped with real-world skills is greater than ever. Traditional postgraduate programs often fail to address the unique challenges posed by modern industries, leaving a gap between academia and the workforce. To bridge this divide, what’s needed is an education that connects students with the real world—offering hands-on experiences, industry insights, and opportunities to network with industry experts. This is what sets the stage for tomorrow’s leaders who can navigate and thrive in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Navrachana University’s Provost, Prof. Pratyush Shankar, an eminent academician, sought after worldwide for his research and exemplary innovative ideas states about the NUV Graduate School – “The launch of the NUV Graduate School represents a transformative milestone in our ongoing commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry. In response to the rapidly evolving global landscape, we recognize that higher education must evolve as well. Our new postgraduate programs are designed to provide students with invaluable hands-on experience, global exposure, and strong industry connections, all while fostering an inclusive, creative, and flexible learning environment.”

These programs will bridge the gap between academic learning and industry needs, providing students with the skills and experience necessary to become leaders in their fields. Opportunities such as stipends, internships, and advanced study options will ensure a comprehensive educational experience. Mentorship programs will also guide students toward entrepreneurial ventures, preparing them for success across various sectors.

Navrachana University is dedicated to shaping the next generation of innovators. The industry-linked postgraduate programs provide the foundation for students to thrive in a fast-changing world. For more details on admissions, fellowships, and eligibility, visit the NUV website or explore the campus to meet the faculty and learn more.

Jaipuria Institute of Management Secures AACSB Accreditation, Joining the Elite 6% of Global and 1% of Indian B-Schools

14th February 2025: Jaipuria Institute of Management, with campuses in Lucknow, Noida, Jaipur, and Indore, has achieved a rare distinction of receiving accreditation from AACSB International. This accomplishment places them among an elite group of less than 6 percent of business schools worldwide and amongst 1% of Business Schools in India.

Established in 1916, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is the longest-serving global accrediting body for business education, dedicated to fostering excellence by connecting educators, students, and industry leaders to shape the next generation of business professionals.

AACSB accreditation is a rigorous process, requiring institutions to undergo a comprehensive peer review. This journey, spanning multiple years, demands that schools demonstrate their ability to deliver a forward-looking curriculum, high-impact research, innovative teaching methodologies, and demonstrated thought leadership and societal impact. Institutions must design and implement strategies to meet these stringent academic standards, making this achievement a true testament to Jaipurian’s dedication to quality.

Recognition of Excellence

“After years of dedicated effort from our leadership team, students, faculty, staff, and administrators across all four Jaipuria Institute of Management campuses (Lucknow, Noida, Jaipur, and Indore), we have earned a place among the world’s leading business schools,” said Sharad Jaipuria, the Chairman of the Jaipuria Group.

Highlighting the significance of this accomplishment, Shreevats Jaipuria, Vice Chairman of Jaipuria Institute of Management, emphasized its transformative impact on graduates. “AACSB accreditation enhances their career prospects, enabling them to secure more competitive salaries and opening doors to greater opportunities worldwide.” “This recognition not only validates the quality of education provided at Jaipuria but also underscores the enhanced value it brings to its graduates in the global marketplace”, he added.

Dr Prabhat Pankaj, Director of Jaipur campus who chaired the accreditation journey for Jaipuria felt highly upbeat. He said, “Achieving AACSB accreditation is a tremendous honour, signifying our commitment to excellence in business education. As chair of the Institute’s accreditation team, I am immensely proud of this significant milestone and look forward to greater global exposure for our students and faculty.”

Academic Offerings and Impact

Jaipuria Institute of Management serves a diverse student body of nearly 2,500 across its four campuses, offering postgraduate programs designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. These programs include the flagship Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) and the doctoral level Fellow Program in Management (FPM).

The PGDM program is delivered in a traditional, fully face-to-face format, while professionals seeking a more flexible learning experience can opt for the online PGDM program. Beyond the core curriculum, Jaipuria enriches the student experience through a variety of opportunities, including international immersion programs, applied research projects, industry collaborations, national and regional conferences, and student competitions. This holistic approach ensures graduates are well-rounded and prepared for success in a dynamic business environment. There is a great deal of emphasis on ‘beyond classroom learning’ through a dedicated mentorship programme, which helps students to create their Individual Development Plan (IDP) allowing them to set their own learning and career goals.

A Global Endorsement

Stephanie M. Bryant, AACSB Executive Vice President and Chief Accreditation Officer, extended her congratulations, stating:

“We congratulate Jaipuria Institute of Management (Lucknow, Noida, Jaipur, Indore) and Chairman Sharad Jaipuria on earning accreditation and commend the entire institution—including administration, faculty, staff, and students—for their collective efforts in achieving this distinguished honour. Jaipuria’s commitment to accreditation reflects its dedication not only to its students, alumni, and the business community but also to the advancement of higher education globally. Today’s students are tomorrow’s business leaders, and the inclusion of Jaipuria in the network of AACSB-accredited institutions will create a lasting impact both locally and internationally.”

Dabugaon Magha Mandei Celebrated with Grandeur and Enthusiasm

Dabugaon: The Dabugaon Magha Mandei was celebrated with full traditional and cultural fervor. The event featured ritualistic processions with lathi (sticks), kuruchi (sacred poles), vimana (palanquins), and traditional weapons. The Shira (leaders), Dishari (spiritual guides), Pujaris (priests), and traditional village heads took part in the grand procession. Thousands of devotees gathered to witness the spectacular traditional event.

Dabugaon Sarpanch and Committee President Binod Saura, Vice President Satya Ranjan Patra, Senior Advocate Jayant Kumar Patra, Surendra Reli, Kunu Patra, and other committee members contributed to the grand arrangements. District BJP President Kunjabihari Dash and former MLA Bhujabal Majhi graced the occasion, enhancing the event’s prestige.

Among the dignitaries present were **Zilla Parishad Member Gupta Bishoyi, Congress President J.

Vikram Deb University Launches Rs2.59 Crore Free Wi-Fi Project for 5,000 Students

Jeypore: Good news for the students of Vikram Deb University! The university campus will soon have free Wi-Fi services, benefiting around 5,000 students. The project is estimated to cost approximately Rs2.59 crore. The necessary equipment has already been received from BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited), and the Wi-Fi service is expected to be operational within a month.

According to Dr. Prashant Kumar Patra, Chairperson of the PG Council (CPGC), the decision to provide free Wi-Fi on campus was made a year ago. The required infrastructure has been placed in the “Boys’ Common Room”, and the groundwork for cable laying has already begun. The installation will include 6 routers, more than 60 access points (APs), over 100 IoT (Internet of Things) devices, and more than 10 server racks. The control room will be located in the university library, and a designated staff member will be responsible for maintenance.

The Wi-Fi service will cover key areas, including two boys’ hostels, the administrative building, the Humanities block, classrooms, various academic departments, the library, the Commerce block, and four girls’ hostels. Students will be able to access the internet using computers, laptops, and mobile phones.

Dr. Patra emphasized the importance of internet access in modern education and stated that while the university previously had Wi-Fi services, they were not fully functional. Therefore, the decision was made to provide high-quality, free Wi-Fi across the entire campus. BSNL has assured that the service will be launched within a month. Discussions regarding the Wi-Fi access guidelines are ongoing, and students will be informed of the usage policies in due course.

MP Pradeep Purohit Urges Nitin Gadkari to Name Bargarh Square After Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Bargarh: In a move to enhance the development of Bargarh city’s outskirts, Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit has urged Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to rename the square in front of the district hospital after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He has also strongly demanded the installation of a full-body statue of Vajpayee at the location.

On Thursday, MP Pradeep Purohit met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, at the Parliament building and submitted a formal memorandum regarding the demand. The MP stated that Minister Gadkari has assured prompt action on the matter.

Along with MP Purohit, several dignitaries, including Professor Amarendra Narayan Yadav, Dr. Prastuti Kumar Mishra, Ashutosh Dash, Pratap Virendra Pradhan, Rakesh Satpathy, Adikanda Mahapatra, Tapas Pradhan, Niranjan Panda, Manas Chand, Mrutyunjay Maharana, Jagadish Sen, Shoviram Dash, Guccha Padhi, Shiba Sahu, Sudam Sahu, Behera, Sanjay Nayak, Ramesh Saroj, and Narayan Nayak, were present in support of the proposal.

MP Purohit expressed his gratitude to Minister Gadkari for considering the demand and to all the members who supported this initiative.

22 Beneficiaries Receive Support at Bhim Bhoi Divyang Empowerment Camp

Rayagada: A Bhim Bhoi Divyang Empowerment Camp was organized at the Rayagada Panchayat Samiti premises. A total of 452 differently-abled individuals from various villages registered for the event. A team of specialist doctors from the Rayagada District Headquarters Hospital conducted health check-ups for the attendees.

The medical examination covered:

16 visually impaired individuals

28 individuals with hearing, nasal, and throat impairments

66 physically disabled individuals

21 individuals with intellectual disabilities

16 individuals with cerebral palsy (CP)

12 individuals suffering from anemia

During the event, various assistive devices were distributed:

4 individuals r…

Two Years of 5G in Odisha: Full State Coverage Still Unmet

Bhubaneswar: The fifth-generation (5G) mobile service in Odisha has completed two years today. Two years ago, on January 5, 2023, the then Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan formally launched this service in Bhubaneswar. On that day, 5G services were activated in select locations in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. The concerned minister had announced that within two years, this service would be available across the entire state.

It was expected that the launch of 5G services in Odisha would improve communication infrastructure, create more employment opportunities, and bring revolutionary changes in agriculture, education, and healthcare sectors. According to information from the telecom department, on the launch day (January 5, 2023), 624 BTS (Base Transceiver Stations) were installed. By December 31, 2023, this number had increased to 11,264. However, in 2024, the installation of BTS slowed down significantly, reaching only 12,678 by December 31, 2024.

In 2023, telecom companies showed great enthusiasm in setting up 5G BTS, but this trend did not continue in 2024. Data from DOT (Department of Telecommunications) shows that only 1,414 new 5G BTS were installed in Odisha in 2024.

Currently, four telecom companies, including the state-owned BSNL, are providing mobile services in Odisha. However, only two private companies—Jio and Airtel—are offering 5G services. According to telecom industry experts, around 80% of 5G BTS in the state have been set up by Jio, while Airtel has installed the remaining 20%. Jio is providing 5G services using 3500 MHz and 700 MHz radio frequencies, while Airtel is using 3500 MHz frequencies.

Despite the launch of 5G services, the expected transformations in education, healthcare, and agriculture have not materialized. However, mobile data usage has increased in the state after 5G’s introduction.

Experts point out several reasons why 5G services have not reached all areas and why adoption remains low. The biggest challenge is that many people do not have 5G-compatible phones. The high cost of 5G smartphones has become a major barrier, preventing many users from switching to the new network. Moreover, 5G network coverage has not yet expanded to all locations in the state.

Another issue is that users do not perceive a significant difference between 4G and 5G services in terms of quality and speed, reducing their enthusiasm to switch. Additionally, BSNL and Vodafone Idea have not yet launched 5G services in Odisha.

Unless these challenges are resolved, experts believe that the adoption and expansion of 5G services in the state will remain slow in the near future.

Kotpad ADEO Caught in Vigilance Trap Over Corruption Charges

Koraput/Kotpad: On charges of possessing disproportionate assets, the Vigilance Department conducted simultaneous raids on Thursday at multiple locations linked to Kotpad Batasana (ADEO) Parthasarathi, who also serves as an accountant and additional data entry operator.

So far, the raids have uncovered three buildings owned by Parthasarathi, 15 plots in different areas of Koraput district, ₹2.45 lakh in cash, 285 grams of gold, 703 grams of silver, and two concrete mixer machines.

Additionally, information has surfaced about an 8,500-square-foot cashew processing unit linked to him, as per Vigilance sources.

Notably, on Thursday morning, a Vigilance team raided Parthasarathi’snc…

Women Carry Sacred Kalash in Grand Procession for Radha Shyam Temple Consecration

Kotpad: In Kotpad, Koraput district, the Kalash Yatra was conducted on Thursday in Kenduguda to mark the establishment of the Radha Shyam temple. Hundreds of ISKCON devotees, both men and women from Kotpad and nearby villages, participated in the event.

The women started from the new temple and reached Damayanti Sagar Champa Rani Ghat near Baharagada Sahi, where they collected water from the Sagar (lake) while singing bhajans and kirtans in devotion to Radha-Krishna. After parading through the town, they returned to the temple, where priests performed rituals and worship.

The celebrations will last for five days. Several ISKCON leaders and spiritual mentors from across the district and state gathered to extend their support.

Rayagada Hosts Legal Awareness Camp for Public Empowerment

Rayagada: A legal awareness camp was organized in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority and the District Legal Administration. Under the guidance of the Chairman of the District Legal Services Authority and District Sessions Judge, Satyanarayan Shadangi, and under the chairmanship of District Legal Services Authority Secretary, Subrata Acharya, the event was held at the local Pitamahal Training Hall.

The awareness camp, titled “Workplace Sexual Harassment Protection Law,” was attended by members of the Rayagada Bar Association, including Kishore Kumar Sahu and Debaraj Nayak, as well as Rayagada District WLSM DPM Shankar Chalan and District Coordinator cum Counselor (PCI India) Basanti Khunti. Several WLSM motivational didis were also present.

Secretary Acharya elaborated in detail on workplace sexual harassment, preventive measures, and relevant laws. He also discussed the legal recourse available to women victims and highlighted various legal provisions related to the issue. The session further focused on women’s empowerment. Other dignitaries also shed light on relevant Supreme Court rulings concerning workplace sexual harassment laws.