3^rd Edition of vivo Ignite : Technology and Innovation Finalists Announced – 19 Young Indian Students Champion Societal Change Through Tech Innovation

New Delhi, 10 June 2025: As the third edition of vivo Ignite reaches its culmination, young Indian students from Grades 8 to 12 are demonstrating extraordinary vision to address societal challenges through innovation.

vivo India, a trusted smartphone brand, has announced the top 10 Ideas, represented by 19 young finalists of its nationwide flagship program – vivo Ignite Technology and Innovation. These outstanding project ideas were selected from over 5,600 submissions, representing a rich diversity of thought, creativity and purpose.

Developed by 19 exceptional young minds, the winning ideas exemplify a unique blend of technology, creativity and intent, offering practical solutions to some of the most pressing societal challenges. The vivo Ignite initiative is designed to nurture problem-solving and analytical thinking among India’s youth and provides students with access to mentorship, resources, and a structured platform to turn their ideas into impactful, tech-driven solutions.

With participation from more than 9,000 schools across 660+ districts, this year’s final has witnessed remarkable diversity. Finalists hailed from diverse regions including Haryana, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Pondicherry, Odisha and West Bengal.

Out of nearly 200 shortlisted ideas, 10 transformative innovations stood out — developed by a balanced cohort of 9 boys and 10 girls. The regional distribution of finalists underscored the truly national character of the program: North and South India each contributed two finalist ideas each from the region, while East and West India were represented by three finalists each. Students from Grade 9 formed the largest group, with 13 out of the 19 finalists part of the top 10 ideas, followed by students from Grades 11 (3 students), 8 (2 students), and 10 (1 student)—a testament to the early spark of innovation among young minds.

The Top 10 projects selected this year exemplify how young innovators are applying technology to address real-world challenges—from climate action to inclusive healthcare and rural access. Each idea reflects a deep understanding of community needs and highlights the growing strategic relevance of youth-led innovation in India’s development journey.

 

1. AI-Guru Box: Offline AI Voice System to Assist Rural Communities by Binayak Sengupta: An AI powered rural information hub that bridges the knowledge divide by delivering real time access to healthcare, legal rights, and government schemes, fostering inclusive and sustainable community development.
2.  Electro-Hub (Community Scale Electricity Producer) by Ritika Jumle and Falguni Kishor Chaudhari: Algae-Biofueler BioNova system that is focused on sustainable biofuel production by a farming technique innovation called, “Pranahakosh” along with a community-based machinery that aims on producing electricity and purifying air too. The first conceptual biofuel engine of India that is very budget-friendly, environment-friendly and recycles CO2 rather than emitting it.
3.  Arduino Based LPG Gas: Arduino Based LPG Gas Leakage Detection and Prevention System by Kushaal Abhay, Vamshikha K S, & Dhriti Kannan: An automated safety mechanism that enables quick response to accidental LPG leaks, prioritizing prevention and disaster control. An easy-to-install system offering enhanced protection for nearby individuals by significantly reducing leak risks, despite challenges like cost, and network coverage in some areas.
4.  Nanocomposite Sealants Restoration: Upcycling Waste into Nanocomposite Sealants for Concrete Crack Restoration by Supriya S & Saruhasini V: A system that utilizes waste-derived nanocomposite sealants for concrete crack repair, offering enhanced durability, crack and water resistance. It presents a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to conventional methods, though further optimization is needed for large-scale infrastructure application.
5.  Smart Navigation Cane: Smart Navigation Cane for the Visually Impaired by Nilesh Kumar: A smart cane designed to enhance mobility and independence for visually impaired individuals. Reduces pedestrian accidents with real time obstacle alerts. Provides emergency SOS response with Live GPS tracking, Traffic light detection and weather alerts to improve outdoor planning and safety.
6.  Fab-Brick by Shreeja Mahadik & Harshita Taral: A superglue made from acetone and thermocol that can effectively bind fabric waste to form bricks suitable for non-load-bearing construction. This method highlights a practical approach towards recycling textile waste into usable building materials.
7.  ArmX – Smart Rehabilitation System for One-Hand Paralyzed Individuals by Devarsh Patel, Veer Manvar, & Kavan Patel: A smart rehabilitation system for individuals with one-hand paralysis, utilizing a sensor-equipped glove to capture hand movements and relay them to a robotic arm that replicates the motion on the affected hand. This non-invasive, interactive setup facilitates movement therapy, gradually improving mobility, strength, and neuroplasticity, thereby fostering greater independence and quality of life.
8.  Green Run for Green Souls (From Wind to Wheels) by Safin Mallick, Sirsa Naskar, & Agamani Pandey: This project is commercially viable by leveraging renewable wind energy for EV charging stations, reducing dependence on traditional power sources. With India’s vast highway network and growing EV market, scalability is achievable by installing more VAWT towers along highways. The project offers cost savings on infrastructure, aligns with sustainable goals, and promotes green energy.
9.  Trevive: A Device to Monitor Real-Time Health of Trees by Abeer Gosain: Trevive is a scalable, low-cost solution adaptable for urban and rural landscapes. It’s simple yet effective technology that makes it viable for municipalities, schools, and conservation programs. The mobile app ensures accessibility and provides valuable insights for large-scale tree health assessment. With further automation, Trevive can become a commercialized tool for global tree conservation efforts.
10.  AI Powered Criminal Activity Detection: Al Powered Criminal Activity Detection Through Sensor Less Sensing by Prateek Sethi: A cost-effective, large-scale crime detection system using Wi-Fi sensing technology. It offers non-intrusive surveillance capable of distinguishing between normal and suspicious human activities, making it suitable for enhancing security across public spaces, homes, and organizations.

The competition is close to its culmination with Grand Finale scheduled for June 15, 2025, in New Delhi. As part of the recognition and encouragement for outstanding performance, scholarships will be awarded to both individual and group winners. Individual participants securing the top five ranks will receive scholarships of INR 4 lakhs, INR 3 lakhs, INR 2 lakhs, INR 1.5 lakhs, and INR 0.75 lakh respectively. Whereas in the group category, scholarship amounts range from INR 9 lakhs for winner, INR 6 lakhs for 2^nd positions, INR 4.5 lakhs for 3^rd position, INR 3 lakhs for 4^th position, and INR 1.5 lakhs will be awarded to the 5^th rank holding teams respectively.

As the nation awaits the finale, the vivo Ignite platform continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers driven by science, technology, and purpose. vivo Ignite has established itself as a powerful platform for discovering promising young innovators and equipping them with the resources, mentorship, and recognition needed to transform their ideas into real-world impact.

6th June 2025: Modern Public School (MPS), Shalimar Bagh, proudly announces the stellar achievement of their school topper, Govind Ranuka, who has scored a remarkable 99.4% in the CBSE Class XII Board Examinations and was fortunate to get blessed by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Rekha Gupta, at her office in the Delhi Secretariat.

Appreciating the hard work and dedication of Govind towards studies, the Chief Minister wished him success in all future endeavours and declared him “a beacon of hard work, discipline, and inspiration for the youth of the country.”

Ms. Alka Kapur, Principal of Modern Public School, accompanied Govind during the visit and presented a memento as a token of appreciation, in recognition of her efforts to continue to encourage academic excellence in the state.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Alka Kapur said, “Govind’s achievement is not just a personal milestone but a proud moment for the entire Modern Public School family. His unswerving determination and dedication mirror the values we nurture in our students. We are profoundly grateful to Hon’ble Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta for the kind words and blessings she bestowed upon this celebration of merit,” said Ms. Kapur on the occasion.

Modern Public School continues to set the framework for academic brilliance and overall growth, empowering students to aim high and also become worthy contributors to society.

JEE Advanced 2025, 6 students of Motion Education achieved success in top 100, 23 in top 500 and 47 in top 1000; qualifying ratio was 51.02% , repeaters batch qualified  ratio  is 60.40%

 

Mumbai: Motion Education has once again solidified its position as a leader in competitive exam preparation, delivering stellar results in the JEE Advanced 2025. Demonstrating unparalleled academic excellence, 6 students from Motion secured ranks within the Top 100, while 23 ranked in the Top 500, and an impressive 47 made it to the Top 1000—a testament to the institute’s rigorous training and commitment to student success.

Out of 6,332 Motion students who appeared for the exam, a remarkable 3,231 qualified, achieving a qualifying ratio of 51.02%—more than double the national average. This is particularly noteworthy when compared to the nationwide statistics, where approximately 1.90 lakh students appeared, and only 45,000 (23.68%) qualified. Motion Education’s exceptional performance not only underscores its superior academic ecosystem but also sets a new benchmark in the competitive exam coaching landscape.

Motion Education’s founder and CEO, Nitin Viijay, proudly announced that among the students from Motion who secured ranks in the Top 100, Arnav Nigam achieved an impressive All India Rank (AIR) 11, followed by Karmanya Gupta at AIR 37, Ramit Goyal at AIR 45, Maulik Jain at AIR 52, Aarush Anand at AIR 64, and Meshia Yash Rohit at AIR 85, bringing immense pride to both the institute and their families.

In addition, three students from Motion featured in the Top 100 of the ST category: Aniket Vijay Thakur secured AIR 50, Himanshu secured AIR 53, and Brijbihari secured AIR 92.

Arnav Nigam, who secured AIR 11, shared his experience, “This journey has taught me the importance of consistency, hard work, and confidence. While preparing for JEE Advanced, I made sure to take care of my mental health alongside my studies. I followed a balanced routine, practiced mindfulness, and took short breaks regularly, which made my preparation more effective. I am deeply grateful to my teachers, family, and friends for their unwavering support. Achieving All India Rank 11 is a matter of great pride for me and marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my academic life.”

Nitin Viijay, Founder and CEO of Motion Education, revealed that out of the 6,332 students from Motion who appeared for the JEE Advanced exam, 3,180 were repeaters, and among them, an impressive 1,921 qualified, resulting in a qualifying ratio of 60.40% for repeater students—significantly higher than the national average.

Grand Success Celebration at Motion Education

On Monday evening, Motion Education hosted a grand success celebration at its Drona-2 Campus in the Indraprastha Industrial Area. The toppers and their parents were warmly welcomed and felicitated. The joyous event saw students, faculty, and staff come together to cut the cake, dance to lively drumbeats, and mark the occasion with spectacular fireworks.

The celebration was graced by prominent dignitaries including Chairman Surendra Vijay, Director Sushila Vijay, Dr. Swati Vijay, Deputy Director and JEE Division Head Ramratan Dwivedi, Academic Head Nikhil Srivastava, and other senior faculty members.

Toppers Share Their Mantra for Success

The toppers credited their success to the disciplined and motivating environment of Kota and Motion Education. They emphasized the pivotal role of experienced and supportive faculty, daily self-study routines, regular mock tests, and concise topic-wise notes in helping them achieve their goals.

JOSAA counseling from today

After the results, now the candidates will take admission in the institutes of their choice by participating in JoSAA counseling on the basis of their scores. Registration for this will start from Tuesday, June 3. Students will get 9 days for choice filling and will have to lock their choices by June 11. The choice cannot be changed after it is locked. The counseling process will run in a total of 6 rounds till July 28. However, last year the counseling was completed in 5 rounds only. JoSAA counseling will provide admission in B.Tech courses in 127 institutes – including 23 IITs, 31 NITs, 26 TripleITs and 46 other government institutes. This year the number of seats in IITs is 18,500+, in NITs 24,229 and in Triple IT 8,546.

 

Chandigarh, May 28, 2025: NSE Academy Limited (NAL), a subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd., has partnered with the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA®), USA, one of the largest and widely respected global associations dedicated to advancing the management accounting profession, in ushering a new era of management accounting education in India.

NAL and IMA will now jointly offer certifications and training programs focusing on modern skills for management accounting professionals. As part of the workforce readiness and workforce development initiative of NSE Academy, this initiative aims to build a talent pipeline equipped with specialized knowledge in management accounting through globally-recognized IMA certifications.

NAL and IMA will introduce pathway programs for accounting professionals and aspirants, seamlessly integrating IMA certifications including, CSCA® (Certified in Strategy and Competitive Analysis), IMA Sustainability Business Practices Certificate™ and the IMA FMAA™ (Financial and Managerial Accounting Associate).

Accessible through the NSE Knowledge Hub, NAL and IMA will offer IMA Continuing Professional Education (CPE) courses for finance practitioners in India in the fields of Data Practices, Cybersecurity, and Analytics. The goal of these joint programs and IMA certifications is to provide in-depth knowledge in management accounting, strategic decision-making, and financial analysis relevant to workplace situations, preparing professionals for future challenges in the field. The partnership will also open engagement avenues for the management accounting community in India, advocating for global best practices and encouraging ongoing professional development.

Speaking on the occasion, IMA President and CEO, Mr. Mike DePrisco, said: “IMA is proud to partner with NSE Academy in a shared mission to shape the future of accounting and finance in India.  Professionals in India will now be able to gain access to a robust portfolio of continuing professional education courses and the opportunity to earn globally recognized certifications from IMA, including the FMAA™ (Financial and Managerial Accounting Associate) and the CSCA® (Certified in Strategy and Competitive Analysis). Together, NSE Academy and IMA are empowering the next generation of accounting and finance leaders with the knowledge and skills to thrive—both locally and around the world.”

NSE Academy Ltd. CEO, Mr. Abhilash Misra, stated: “We are thrilled to partner with IMA. This partnership aims to address the increasing talent demand and emerging career opportunities in the domain of finance and accounting, fulfilling the skills gap and providing top-tier education and certifications to organizations and universities in India. We continue to work in advancing our objective of cultivating talent for the future and enhancing India’s expanding influence in the global economy.”

27 May, 2025, Bengaluru: 

“If you want to be a good scholar, you need to be an engaged one”, said Professor Rishikesha T Krishnan, Director, IIM Bangalore, while addressing participants of the Summer Research Methodology Workshop 2025 at IIM Bangalore, hosted by the Office of Research and Publications (R&P) from 19^th May 2025. The workshop concluded earlier today with the Editors’ Panel and valediction. Altogether 97 candidates from across India, including faculty and PhD students from other Indian Institutes of Management, took part in this workshop. Around 12 IIMB faculty members, who are well published in their respective domains, were involved with the workshop.

Providing valuable insights on ‘Research Leadership’ during the valediction, Professor RT Krishnan listed rigor, insight and relevance as the essential criteria for engaged scholarship. “However, the outcome of all this should be impact; you need to figure out how to extend the benefit of your research beyond academic journals. If you are smart in designing your research, you can take the outcome of your research in different directions to benefit academia, industry, policy making, and more.”

He quoted from papers co-authored by IIMB faculty and Doctoral scholars to explain the model of engaged scholarship further, adding, “To make research more impactful, you have to find interesting problems and provide unique solutions for the same. In India, the different and unique phenomena going around us give us a plethora of ideas to work on our research and publish in top journals. Working in the sustainability domain has also become crucial.”

He summed up his talk listing how to draw an action plan to be successful and impactful in research. “Remember that being a scholar is akin to a marathon, not a sprint, where personal vision as well as aspiration, focus, strategic intent and research plan are vital. View yourself as more than just a teacher – but as an engaged scholar. Benchmark yourself against the best in the world. Be committed to continuous improvement and embrace new technology as well as pedagogy. Manage time judiciously – try to align teaching, research and writing. This should be your individual agenda as a scholar.” He also explained the importance of personal effectiveness adding, “Prioritize and put first things first.”

“As an outstanding teacher, as a rigorous researcher, through contribution to practice, and sometimes through all three, can you be truly impactful. Become experts in your domains, an expert in an emerging method or approach, identify or build a unique dataset and then mine it. Develop a knack to identify interesting problems across domains and ways of addressing them.” He concluded by telling the participants that the best return gift they could give to IIMB faculty engaged in this workshop was to practise all that they have learnt in the workshop.

Mumbai, 27 May 2025: MTR Foods proudly announces its contribution of 10 million+ nutritious meals to children, in collaboration with The Akshaya Patra Foundation. Building on the legacy of its 100-year journey, this milestone reflects MTR’s sustained commitment to addressing hunger, supporting education, and nurturing young futures. It also marks over a decade of impactful collaboration between MTR and The Akshaya Patra Foundation, working together to create lasting change in communities across India.

Since the inception of this collaboration in August 2014, MTR has been instrumental in supporting the PM POSHAN (mid-day meal) programme across Karnataka, directly impacting the lives of close to 60,000 children. The initiative spans across 1,000+ schools in four key cities, including Mysore, Hubli, Bangalore, and Bellary, serving more than 10 million meals to date.

The partnership between MTR and Akshaya Patra Foundation exemplifies how collaborative efforts can create lasting social impact, addressing immediate needs while building foundations for long-term community development. MTR’s support for the PM POSHAN programme through the Akshaya Patra Foundation continues to be a vital part of its CSR journey – one that feeds futures, supports dreams, and reaffirms the company’s purpose of creating healthier lives through the power of food.

Speaking on achieving this milestone, Mr. Sunay Bhasin, CEO, MTR said, “At MTR, we believe that every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive — and that journey begins with a nutritious meal. Our partnership with The Akshaya Patra Foundation is deeply meaningful to us, as it allows us to play a small part in shaping brighter futures for children in need. Reaching the 10 million+ meal mark is not just a milestone; it’s a reflection of our ongoing commitment to care, compassion, and community. We are inspired to continue this journey and extend our impact in the years to come.”

Mr. Shridhar Venkat, CEO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation, added, “As we mark a decade of meaningful partnership with Orkla India Pvt Ltd (MTR Foods) on World Nutrition Day, we reflect with gratitude on a shared journey rooted in purpose and progress. Over the past 10 years, MTR’s steadfast support has helped us serve over 10 million nutritious meals to nearly 60,000 children across Karnataka. This collaboration stands as a shining example of how corporate purpose and social responsibility can converge to nourish not just children, but a brighter future for our nation. We deeply value MTR’s commitment to enabling nutrition and education and look forward to continuing this impactful association in the years ahead.”

 

Mumbai, May 23, 2025:  As digital transformation accelerates, data has emerged as a vital resource driving business growth, and the ability to derive meaningful insights from vast data pools is becoming a critical business imperative. Yet, as organisations grapple with this data explosion, a significant gap in skilled professionals capable of translating raw data into actionable insights continues to widen. To address this burgeoning demand, Emeritus, a global leader in accessible and affordable high-quality education, has launched a Post Graduate Certificate in Data Science and Business Analytics with Generative AI in collaboration with E&ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati, empowering learners to thrive in the data–driven world.

As organisations increasingly prioritise data–driven decision-making, the demand for professionals skilled in Python, R, SQL, Machine Learning, Data visualisation, and Big Data continues to rise, offering opportunities with up to 3x higher salaries. This programme is tailored for a wide range of professionals eager to harness the power of data and machine learning for a competitive edge. It is particularly ideal for business leaders, tech professionals, data analysts, and business analysts who want to upskill and remain relevant in today’s data–driven marketplace. For non-technical learners, the programme offers a structured learning path to master data science fundamentals, making it accessible for a diverse audience.

India is expected to see a surge in demand for Data Science & AI professionals, with a need for over a million by 2026, according to the report by Nasscom titled “State of Data Science & AI Skills in India”.  It further highlights that 75%-80% of all Data Science & AI job roles in India seek talent in the experience bracket of 0-5 years and 5-10 years. This growing demand underscores a critical need for robust training programs, and the Post Graduate Certificate in Data Science and Business Analytics with Generative AI is strategically curated to nurture this talent pipeline, ensuring that India’s workforce is prepared to meet the evolving demands of the digital economy.

“This programme is meticulously crafted to provide participants with cutting-edge expertise in Generative AI and data science, enabling them to tackle complex business challenges with confidence”, said Avnish Singhal, Executive Vice President, Head India & APAC, Emeritus. “With its industry-aligned curriculum, practical learning approach, and prestigious certifications from E&ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati, and IBM, this programme not only addresses the growing skills gap but also helps professionals unlock new career opportunities and drive impactful change in their organisations.”

The Post Graduate Certificate in Data Science and Business Analytics with Generative AI stands out for its industry-aligned curriculum, flexible learning format, and prestigious credentials from E&ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati. It includes live masterclasses, a two-week capstone project, access to the latest research papers, and the opportunity for participants to build their digital portfolio on platforms like GitHub and Kaggle.

Key highlights of the programme include:

·         Gen AI Infused Curriculum and Specialisation: Participants will gain hands-on expertise with a Gini-infused curriculum, featuring the latest modules and tools, and will be able to choose between Analytics in Business or Generative AI in Data Science, enabling learners to align their education with their career aspirations.

·         Professional IBM Certifications: Upon successful completion of the programme, learners will be provided with three professional IBM certifications to make them industry-ready.

·         Optional Campus Immersion: The programme includes an option for on-campus learning at IIT Guwahati for successful learners, enriching the educational experience.

·         Hands-on Learning: More than 20 tools and libraries, including Power BI, Jupyter Notebook, and Scikit-learn, delivered through virtual software labs. The programme also includes 20+ real-world data science projects and 10+ application-based case studies for practical industry insights.

This program is crafted to meet the needs of the evolving tech industry, making professionals ready to lead in data science and business analytics roles. 

21st May 2025: With the CBSE Class 12 board results declared on May 13, 2025, students across India are at a crossroads, exploring higher education, competitive exams like CUET-UG, JEE, or NEET, or prospective career opportunities. In this digital age, mobile apps have become essential for accessing learning resources, building skills, and connecting with professional opportunities. These platforms complement traditional education, offering personalized and interactive experiences to prepare students for their future. Here are four must-have apps to empower Class 12 students in building a strong career foundation.

1. Digivarsity: Blending Academics with Real-World Skills

Launched by TeamLease Edtech, Digivarsity is India’s first AI-powered Work-Integrated Degree and Career Discovery Platform, revolutionizing higher education. Perfect for Class 12 students evaluating their board results, it integrates academic learning with practical workplace experience, preparing them for long-term career success. Digivarsity partners with top Indian universities to offer work-linked degree programs, ensuring students gain industry-relevant skills alongside academic credentials. Its AI-driven career guidance helps students align their post-result aspirations with suitable career paths, picking the right course and redefining their educational journey.

2. Physics Wallah: Affordable, Quality Education for All

Physics Wallah (PW), founded in 2020 and based in Noida, is a leading EdTech platform democratizing education across 98% of India’s pin codes. As Class 12 students gear up for competitive exams like JEE and NEET post-results, PW provides affordable, high-quality resources through its app. With over 10 million paid students, 78 YouTube channels in eight vernacular languages, and 28 test-prep categories, PW supports online, offline, and hybrid learning. Its skilling verticals help students transition from board exams to professional courses, fostering self-sufficient, skilled professionals.

3. Internshala: Turning Passion into Careers

Internshala equips Class 12 students with relevant skills and practical exposure, crucial as they assess their board results and career options. The platform connects students with internships and training programs to jumpstart their professional journey, helping them discover and pursue their passions. Internshala training offers courses in fields like digital marketing, programming, and data science, ensuring graduates are job-ready. For students seeking clarity post-results, Internshala provides the tools to build confidence and claim their place in the workforce.

4. LinkedIn: Building Professional Networks Early

LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional networking platform, is a powerful resource for Class 12 students eager to leverage their board results. By creating a profile, students can showcase their CBSE scores, skills, and extracurricular achievements, connecting with peers, mentors, and employers. LinkedIn offers access to internships, scholarships, and entry-level jobs, while LinkedIn Learning courses help build skills for future careers. For students navigating their post-result path, LinkedIn is a gateway to professional opportunities and industry insights.

These four apps Digivarsity, Physics Wallah, Internshala, and LinkedIn provide Class 12 students with the resources to navigate their post-board exam journey confidently. By offering skill development, practical experience, and professional connections, these platforms help students transform their results into a springboard for a successful career.

Drawing & Essay Competition Held on the Occasion of Bharat Ratna Late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s 34th Death Anniversary

Bhubaneswar, May 21, 2025 — On the solemn occasion of the 34th death anniversary of Bharat Ratna Late Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi, the Odisha Citizen Forum organized a Drawing and Essay Competition to commemorate his legacy and celebrate Odisha’s cultural heritage. The event was held on May 21, 2025, at the New Hall, Buddha Mandir, Madhusudan Marg, Unit-9, Bhubaneswar.

The theme for both competitions was “Rath Yatra of Lord Shri Jagannath,” aiming to engage young students in exploring the spiritual and cultural significance of the iconic Rath Yatra .

The competition was open to students from Pre-Nursery to Class 12, and the schedule was as follows:

• Drawing Competition: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

• Essay Competition: 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM

• Registration Time: 8:30 AM

• Registration Fee: ₹100

Shri Suresh Kumar Routray, veteran politician from Odisha, attended as Chief Guest, offering his support and words of encouragement to the young participants.

Mr. Bhaskar Charchi, Principal, expressed his appreciation for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of combining cultural education with national remembrance.

Organized by the Odisha Citizen Forum, the event served not only as a tribute to a visionary leader but also as an opportunity for students to connect with their heritage through creativity and expression. Prizes and certificates were awarded to outstanding participants, making the event both meaningful and memorable.

By Mr. Manohar Malhotra, Head of Admissions at Merrakii

It is the dream of many students to study abroad, but deciding on the correct university is a multifaceted and confusing Task. University selection can appear challenging at first sight but in fact, the procedure is based very deeply on an even more crucial and basic choice: selecting the correct country.

Country First, University Second

Before a student compares universities, they need to analyze which country will best fit their long-term interests and objectives first. This includes learning about the norms of the country’s education, cultural setting, immigration policies, employment opportunities and political landscape. For example, recent debates in the United States regarding possible policy shifts for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program has raised alarm among international students, especially those from nations such as India. If such shifts cut or nullify opportunities for students to pursue work after graduation, it might encourage them to look for alternative destinations. Once the country is selected, students can focus on finding the right university. Several key factors influence this decision:

1. Course Offerings and Curriculum 

The foremost concern needs to be about the availability of the preferred course. The students need to take care that the universities provide the appropriate subjects and specializations reflecting their interests as well as long-term career aims. The curricula framework, credit system and the professional expertise of faculties also significantly impact a student’s educational experience.

2. Scholarships and Financial Support  

For most families, budget is the key deciding factor. Tuition and living costs differ greatly from one university to another and one country to another. Thus, obtaining scholarships or financial assistance often becomes crucial. A substantial scholarship package can strongly sway the decision especially among middle class-income families.

3. Location and Career Opportunities

Education in industry-focused cities can greatly increase post-graduation prospects. Being close to potential employers means greater opportunities for internships, networking and placements, so university location becomes a key consideration in the selection process.

 4. University Reputation and Exposure

Elite universities like the Ivy League may gain students even when they do not offer financial aid given their brand value in the long run. Yet most students will have to balance between elite and affordability, particularly given options outside of elite colleges that offer good programs and significant scholarship money.

5. Faculty and Research Opportunities

For students seeking higher degrees or academic careers, it is essential to take into account the expertise of the faculty, research opportunities available, and the ability to pursue further studies under the same mentorship from master’s to PhD.

Simplifying the Application Process

To minimize the intricacies involved in applying to foreign universities, students need to take a few strategic steps:

Early Planning

Plan at least 12 months before the university course commencement. It gives sufficient time to collect documents, appear for standardized tests, and do comprehensive research on universities.

Clarity on Goals

Having clear goals for the desired course and country narrows down the list of universities effectively.

Balanced Application Strategy

Students should categorize their options into three groups: Dream (aspirational choices), Reach (within realistic possibility), and Safe (safe choices). This balanced strategy minimizes risk and maximizes acceptance opportunities.

Organized Documentation

Students must make all necessary documents—transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LOR), CV and test scores—well ahead of time to prevent the eleventh-hour rush.

Role of Visa Assistance

It’s an equally important and sometimes intimidating part of the study abroad process to obtain a student visa. Visa requirements and application processes vary by country. Professional visa assistance services can prove to be hugely beneficial in assisting students:

 – Know evolving visa policies and qualification criteria

– File correct documents within specified timelines

– Get ready for visa interviews

– Adapt to policy changes with ease and confidence

Having recent facts and professional guidance can markedly lower stress and enhance the likelihood of a successful visa result.

Universities are not solely ranked by their academic status—it’s a complex choice based on factors such as location, course options available, cost implications and future career goals. With proper planning, awareness and advice the student can successfully navigate the process and make decisions that will establish them for academic and professional success overseas.