- UGC Admission Policy: Central universities can now admit students based on qualifying exam marks if seats remain vacant.
- Monsoon Forecast: IMD predicts above-normal rainfall across India, except for parts of the northeast.
- Natural Disasters: Cloudbursts and landslides in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand result in multiple casualties and extensive damage.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) announced that central universities are permitted to admit students based on their marks in qualifying exams if seats remain unfilled.
This policy adjustment aims to ensure that all available seats are utilized, providing more students with the opportunity for higher education. UGC Chief Jagadesh Kumar emphasized the importance of this measure in maintaining optimal enrollment levels in central universities.
Significant Developments: Education Policy, Monsoon Impact, and Disaster Response
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that the latter half of the monsoon season will bring more than 106% rainfall across India, excluding some parts of the northeast. August is expected to see normal rainfall levels. In Himachal Pradesh, a cloudburst in Rampur’s Samej Khad area left 19 people missing, prompting an emergency response from the State Disaster Response Force.
In weather-related news, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has projected that the second half of the monsoon season will bring above-normal rainfall to most parts of India, with the exception of the northeast. This forecast suggests a potential increase in agricultural productivity but also raises concerns about flooding and other monsoon-related challenges.
Himachal Pradesh faced a devastating cloudburst in the Samej Khad area of Rampur, resulting in 19 people missing. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been deployed for rescue operations. In a similar vein, Uttarakhand has been grappling with heavy rains that caused the Mandakini River’s water levels to rise, necessitating evacuations and disrupting the Kedarnath pilgrimage route.
Delhi residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel due to dense cloud cover over the city, prompting the closure of all schools for the day. This precautionary measure highlights the city’s proactive approach to managing potential weather-related disruptions. Additionally, Wayanad has seen extensive damage and loss of life due to landslides, with over 200 reported deaths and ongoing rescue operations involving multiple agencies.
These developments underscore the diverse challenges faced by India, from educational reforms to managing the impacts of a dynamic monsoon season and responding to natural disasters. Each of these areas requires coordinated efforts and timely interventions to ensure safety, continuity, and progress.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
