South Asian University starts admission process for the academic session 2024 – 25 and introduces four new programmes

New Delhi, February 22:

South Asian University has started the online admission process for the new academic session 2024-25 for all programmes including Bachelor’s, Master’s, Integrated Master’s, MTech and PhD.

The admission brochure for the academic session 2024 -25 was released by the President of the university, Prof. K. K. Aggarwal at a function organised at Foreign Correspondents’ Club here today.

The university is going to introduce new programmes in the Department of Computer Science, namely, BTech, Dual Degree (BTech+MTech), MTech and integrated MSc+MTech from the new academic session.

SAU has plans to introduce more programmes in the near future. The programmes on offer are in the areas of Economics, Biotechnology, Computer Science, International Relations, Legal Studies, Mathematics and Sociology.

The entrance tests for these programmes will be conducted on 20th April & 21th April 2024. This entrance test will be computer-based with multiple choice questions conducted simultaneously across South Asia at designated centres. Applicants will be allowed to take the test on scheduled time slots at the respective test centres of their choice.

The entrance test is compulsory for admission to most of the programmes, however, there are modes of direct admission to some BTech, MTech, Integrated and PhD seats. In the direct mode of admission, certain categories of candidates are exempted from the entrance test and the shortlisting is done on the basis of their scores in certain standard examinations including JEE, GATE and JRF along with their CVs/SOPs/research proposals/letters of recommendations and then called directly for the interview, wherever applicable.

The university offers scholarships and financial assistance to a certain number of students on merit and merit-cum-means basis. Students are also granted specially-created visas. South Asian University is a unique university, jointly established by the governments of the eight SAARC nations. About half the students in SAU are from India while the remaining half are from the rest of the SAARC countries, barring a few students from other regions of the world.

Each SAARC country has a quota of seats but if the number of students from any particular country runs short of the allotted quota, the remaining available seats are filled up by students from other countries as per SAU rules.

Applicants from Non-SAARC countries can apply directly for admission giving details of their academic credentials, without appearing in the entrance test.

The last date for submission of online application on the university website www.sau.int is 31th March 2024. Admission Brochure and other details are available on the university website.

Prem Jain Memorial Trust hosts 6th edition of ‘ Prem Jain Memorial Address’ , launches two new books

Decarbonizing India was the Theme of this Mahotsav

Harit-Prem Bharat Mahotsav stands to make earth greener

Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, Chairman, National Green Tribunal ( NGT ) gave keynote lecture.

Ar. Christopher Benninger Unveils 9 Principles of Intelligent Urbanisation during his Memorial Lecture

New Delhi, January 24, 2024 –

Prem Jain Memorial Trust hosted a significant event on January 24, 2024, featuring the prestigious Prem Jain Memorial Address and the launch of two impactful books. The event took place at the C D Deshmukh Auditorium, India International Centre, Delhi, as part of the annual Sustainability Festival, Harit-Prem Bharat Mahotsav. Decarbonizing India was the Theme of this Mahotsav. The Memorial Address was delivered by world renowned architect and Urban Planner Ar. Christopher Charles Benninger and the Keynote Speaker was Honorable Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, Chairman, National Green Tribunal ( NGT ) .

The event’s program commenced with the Prem Jain Memorial Address delivered by world renowned architect Ar. Christopher Benninger, followed by a keynote address by NGT Chairman, Justice Adarsh Goel.

Addressing the event legendary architect Ar. Christopher Benninger said only 36% enjoy the rights of the city, while the lives of the remaining 64% remain unsustainable, at the Prem Jain Memorial Address here today.

He offered an exploration of the 9 Principles of Intelligent Urbanisation, including a delicate balance with nature, tradition, and technology. He emphasized the importance of efficiency, human scale, conviviality, an opportunity matrix, balanced movement, and institutional integrity in creating thriving and inclusive urban environments.

The event was part of the annual Sustainability Festival, Harit-Prem Bharat Mahotsav held annually by the Prem Jain Memorial Trust.

In his Keynote Address Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, former Chairman of National Green Tribunal ( NGT ), said, “Dedicated to fostering connections between sustainability champions and the youth of Bharat, this occasion marks the convergence of wisdom, literature, and environmental consciousness.”

He went on to add, “With 351 polluted river stretches and 134 air-polluted cities, the NGT intervenes through suo motu proceedings for effective disposal of cases related to environmental conservation. As guardians of our environment, we must recognize the legal duty to safeguard these resources, preventing their conversion into private ownership. The fight against pollution extends beyond the Ganga cleanup, revealing a stark reality where states like Maharashtra, Assam, and Gujarat contribute significantly to the 351 polluted river stretches, despite their substantial economic contributions.”
“Dr. Prem Jain, visionary behind the Green building movement in India, has not only transformed the landscape of the building industry but has also instilled a powerful vision for India – to ascend as a global beacon in the Sustainable Built Environment. As the esteemed Chairman of the Indian Green Building Council ( IGBC ) since 2007, he tirelessly championed a Greener way of life, laying the foundation for India to emerge triumphantly as the world leader in ‘Green.’ Dr. Jain’s legacy as the ‘Father of Green Buildings’ resonates, inspiring a paradigm shift in the conception and design of buildings worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the future of our planet,” said his daughter, Payal Jain.

“Dedicated to fostering connections between sustainability champions and the youth of Bharat, this occasion marks the convergence of wisdom, literature, and environmental consciousness. Today we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Prem Jain, the visionary ‘Father of Green Buildings,’ and strives towards a greener, more sustainable future for Bharat,” said Renu Jain.

Two noteworthy books were also launched during the event:

  1. “PJMT Handbook on Wellness in Educational Institutions”
  2. “Subliminal Bridges of Eco-Poetry” – Poetry addressing climate change

In the loving memory of Dr. Alok Kumar Srivastava Department of Sociology, Mahatma Gandhi Central University organised a one-day seminar on “Science, Technology and Society” .Not the competition, but adjustment with Nature is the only way to save human civilization – Dr. Jagadish N Sinha

Date – 22 December 2023
Motihari, Bihar
A one-day seminar was organized today by the Department of Sociology at the Chanakya Campus of Mahatma Gandhi Central University. Addressing the programme, Dr. Santosh K. Kar, the keynote speaker said that our lives are being affected by many diseases, of which malaria takes the most lives in the world. Today India is developing rapidly. But it is still difficult to get rid of mosquito-borne diseases.This is a big challenge for all of us. Eminent historian Dr. Jagdish N Sinha, the chief speaker said that if science is seen and studied from the perspective of history, it will be understood by common students and citizens and there will be an an all-round development of the society. If we look beyond all this, then in the process of development we have to take special care that we do not have to race with nature but maintain coordination.Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences and patron Prof. Sunil Mahawar and co-patron Dr. Sujit Kumar Choudhary, Head of the Department of Sociology, delivered the welcome note.
The program was conducted by Mritunjay Kumar Yadvendu, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology who was also the coordinator of the programme. Vote of thanks was given by Dr. Shweta.The programme was organized in both online and offline mode in which hundreds of professors, students and social workers were present.

Violation of Election Code of Conduct Uncovered in Madhya Pradesh as BJP Candidate in West Jabalpur Legislative Assembly Constituency Prepares to Distribute Electronic Items

Gifts distribution at an event in Jabalpur

Jabalpur, October 13, 2023

In a surprising turn of events, a violation of the election code of conduct has been exposed in Madhya Pradesh, casting a shadow over the political landscape. The BJP candidate for the West Jabalpur legislative assembly constituency is reportedly ready to distribute electronic items in an apparent bid to sway voters.

Just a few days ago, a BJP Member of Parliament from Jabalpur made headlines by asserting that they do not engage in vote-buying. However, recent developments suggest a contradiction between words and actions, reminiscent of the old saying, “Hathi ke daant dikhane ke aur, khaane ke aur” (the teeth of elephants are for show and for eating).

Sources close to dissatisfied BJP leaders have revealed that extensive preparations have been made to distribute electronic items during a forthcoming event at Hotel Shawn Elize, situated within the West Jabalpur legislative assembly constituency. The event is scheduled to take place at 7 PM today and is being promoted as the “Lawyer Welcome and Honor Ceremony.” However, suspicions are arising regarding the true intentions behind this gathering.

It is important to note that providing gifts or items to individuals is not inherently wrong, as per local administration regulations. However, when such actions are orchestrated by a political party during an election, it not only contravenes the election code of conduct but also raises concerns about the integrity of the democratic process.

The secrecy surrounding the distribution of electronic items at Hotel Shawn Elize has raised further suspicions. This clandestine operation is perceived as a deliberate and covert strategy aimed at influencing voters during the current electoral season, potentially shaking the very foundation of the democratic process.

Will MP Rakesh Singh contest election from Jabalpur West or North-Central?

Jabalpur: 6 October, 2023

In Madhya Pradesh, the announcement of assembly elections can happen at any time, but in the meantime, a major update is coming via sources. Rakesh Singh, who has been the BJP Member of Parliament from Jabalpur four times, is in dilemma of where to to contest the upcoming elections North-Central or Jabalpur West?. Although BJP leadership had initially instructed Rakesh Singh to contest the assembly election from Jabalpur West, despite being a Member of Parliament, he reluctantly agreed to prepare for the assembly election. However, it is now being said that he would prefer to contest the assembly election, not from Jabalpur West, but from Jabalpur North-Central. According to sources, so far, the BJP has not announced the candidacy of anyone from Jabalpur North-Central, and this is why Rakesh Singh’s attention is focused on that seat.

“Why Did the Women’s Quota Bill Exist if…”: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Criticizes the Government

On Thursday, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her criticism towards the BJP-led Union government, accusing it of trivializing women’s rights. She pointed out that the recently enacted legislation, which reserves seats for women in legislatures, cannot be implemented for a period of ten years. Speaking at a rally in Mohankheda, located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, which is gearing up for elections, she questioned the government’s decision to introduce the bill if the quota couldn’t be immediately enforced.

Ms. Priyanks Gandhi stated that “The BJP-led Union government introduced the women’s reservation bill, which received support from all Opposition parties, including us. However, we later discovered that it wouldn’t be implemented for ten years, during which time a census would be conducted. In that case, what was the purpose of this announcement? It appears as though women’s rights are being taken lightly.”

She highlighted that the government would need to complete a delimitation exercise before enforcing the new Act, which reserves 33 percent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures, and this process would consume a decade, according to the Congress leader.

Ms. Gandhi further questioned, “If everyone is entitled to equal rights, then why isn’t a caste census being conducted? In the Bihar caste census, it was revealed that 84 percent of the population consists of OBCs and Dalits, yet these individuals are not holding government positions. When this issue is raised, the BJP remains silent.”

“Why Did the Women’s Quota Bill Exist if…”: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Criticizes the Government

On Thursday, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her criticism towards the BJP-led Union government, accusing it of trivializing women’s rights. She pointed out that the recently enacted legislation, which reserves seats for women in legislatures, cannot be implemented for a period of ten years. Speaking at a rally in Mohankheda, located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, which is gearing up for elections, she questioned the government’s decision to introduce the bill if the quota couldn’t be immediately enforced.

Ms. Priyanks Gandhi stated that “The BJP-led Union government introduced the women’s reservation bill, which received support from all Opposition parties, including us. However, we later discovered that it wouldn’t be implemented for ten years, during which time a census would be conducted. In that case, what was the purpose of this announcement? It appears as though women’s rights are being taken lightly.”

She highlighted that the government would need to complete a delimitation exercise before enforcing the new Act, which reserves 33 percent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures, and this process would consume a decade, according to the Congress leader.

Ms. Gandhi further questioned, “If everyone is entitled to equal rights, then why isn’t a caste census being conducted? In the Bihar caste census, it was revealed that 84 percent of the population consists of OBCs and Dalits, yet these individuals are not holding government positions. When this issue is raised, the BJP remains silent.””Why Did the Women’s Quota Bill Exist if…”: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Criticizes the Government On Thursday, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her criticism towards the BJP-led Union government, accusing it of trivializing women’s rights. She pointed out that the recently enacted legislation, which reserves seats for women in legislatures, cannot be implemented for a period of ten years. Speaking at a rally in Mohankheda, located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, which is gearing up for elections, she questioned the government’s decision to introduce the bill if the quota couldn’t be immediately enforced. Ms. Priyanks Gandhi stated that “The BJP-led Union government introduced the women’s reservation bill, which received support from all Opposition parties, including us. However, we later discovered that it wouldn’t be implemented for ten years, during which time a census would be conducted. In that case, what was the purpose of this announcement? It appears as though women’s rights are being taken lightly.” She highlighted that the government would need to complete a delimitation exercise before enforcing the new Act, which reserves 33 percent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures, and this process would consume a decade, according to the Congress leader. Ms. Gandhi further questioned, “If everyone is entitled to equal rights, then why isn’t a caste census being conducted? In the Bihar caste census, it was revealed that 84 percent of the population consists of OBCs and Dalits, yet these individuals are not holding government positions. When this issue is raised, the BJP remains silent.”

https://x.com/INCIndia/status/1709831084274254218?s=20

“Why Did the Women’s Quota Bill Exist if…”: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Criticizes the Government

On Thursday, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her criticism towards the BJP-led Union government, accusing it of trivializing women’s rights. She pointed out that the recently enacted legislation, which reserves seats for women in legislatures, cannot be implemented for a period of ten years. Speaking at a rally in Mohankheda, located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, which is gearing up for elections, she questioned the government’s decision to introduce the bill if the quota couldn’t be immediately enforced.

Ms. Priyanks Gandhi stated that “The BJP-led Union government introduced the women’s reservation bill, which received support from all Opposition parties, including us. However, we later discovered that it wouldn’t be implemented for ten years, during which time a census would be conducted. In that case, what was the purpose of this announcement? It appears as though women’s rights are being taken lightly.”

She highlighted that the government would need to complete a delimitation exercise before enforcing the new Act, which reserves 33 percent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures, and this process would consume a decade, according to the Congress leader.

Ms. Gandhi further questioned, “If everyone is entitled to equal rights, then why isn’t a caste census being conducted? In the Bihar caste census, it was revealed that 84 percent of the population consists of OBCs and Dalits, yet these individuals are not holding government positions. When this issue is raised, the BJP remains silent.”

Farmers’ Concerns Take Center Stage in Madhya Pradesh’s Political Battle

Farmers’ concerns are at the forefront of the political battle in Madhya Pradesh, which is gearing up for its upcoming Assembly election. The picturesque village of Chhapri, located about 70 kilometers south of Bhopal, is witnessing these concerns firsthand, with damaged soybean crops and inadequate compensation being major issues. Despite the much-publicized Prime Minister’s crop insurance scheme, farmers are dissatisfied.

In a state where 70 percent of the population is engaged in agriculture and related activities, both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress are focusing their campaigns on economic relief, agricultural issues, and varying degrees of Hindutva, expressed in the divisive language of cow-belt politics. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently made a controversial statement, suggesting that if the Congress were to come to power, Hindu women might face restrictions on wearing traditional symbols like bindi and bangles.

In the scorching fields of Chhapri, Rajesh Jaat examines damaged soybean pods, revealing the devastation caused by a drought in August. He explains that farmers receive compensation of around Rs. 1,200 per acre for damaged crops, even though the provision allows for Rs. 32,000 per hectare. Patiram Bhalla, another farmer, criticizes the government’s minimum support prices as inadequate, and Mukesh Kangal complains about delayed government procurement, which forces many farmers to sell their produce at low prices to private buyers.

The Congress, which narrowly won the 2018 election, is once again capitalizing on farmer discontent. Kamal Nath, the party’s leader in the state, has proposed an ambitious “Krishak Nyay Yojana,” which promises free electricity for agricultural pumps up to 5 horsepower, the resolution of unjustified police cases against protesting farmers, power consumption discounts for agriculture, and continued loan waivers. Kamal Nath accuses Chouhan’s government of being “anti-farmer” and highlights the high number of farmer suicides during BJP rule.

The Congress also questions the government’s failure to present the Jain Commission report on the Mandsaur violence in the Assembly. In 2017, five farmers were killed during a protest demanding fair crop prices, which became a pivotal moment in the Congress’s resurgence in 2018.

However, the political landscape changed when Jyotiraditya Scindia defected to the BJP in 2020, bringing Chouhan back to power. Despite his long tenure as Chief Minister, Chouhan faces challenges due to public fatigue with his leadership. The BJP is cautious not to highlight him as the chief ministerial candidate, focusing its campaign on Prime Minister Narendra Modi instead.

Chouhan has embraced a more hardline Hindu image in recent years, emphasizing majoritarian politics and crackdowns, particularly against Muslims. His government gained notoriety for demolishing the home of Wasim Ahmed, a disabled man, in Khargone in April 2022. Chouhan is attempting to rally Hindu sentiment against the Congress amid debates about Sanatana Dharma, but voters claim their decisions will not be swayed by ideological disputes.

Gurjar community threatens massive protest in Delhi if their demands are not met

Gurjar community in Gwalior to carry out a jail fill-up protest against police brutality

To start nationwide protest from October 12 onwards if demands are not met

New Delhi, October 4:

At a press conference held at the Delhi Press Club, Shri Raviendra Singh Bhati, the National President of the Rashtriya Yuva Gurjar Swabhiman Sangharsh Samiti, announced that on September 25th, in the Phool Bagh ground in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, there were incidents of high-handedness by administrative officials against the Gurjar community. This included caste-based discrimination and police brutality (such as firing tear gas shells, rubber bullets, and attacking the elderly with batons) while the Gurjar community was protesting for their demands. In response, the Gurjar community will begin a jail fill-up protest on October 12th. If any untoward incident occurs during this protest, the entire responsibility will lie with the Madhya Pradesh government and administration.

Advocate Divakar Bidhudi Gurjar, the President of the Gurjar Art and Culture Trust, stated during a press conference that the level of authoritarianism by the police administration has reached such a low point that even the arrest of sisters and daughters is being carried out with humiliation at police stations. The police administration is filing serious cases against innocent people and engaging in illegal extortion. Cases are being registered against youth, jeopardizing their future.

Shri Antaram Tanwar said that Madhya Pradesh government should immediately cease this authoritarian behavior. We will not tolerate the humiliation of our mothers, sisters, and our community. He emphasized that the administrative hooliganism and authoritarianism have reached an extreme level. The peaceful and non-violent movement of the society can be compared to the British rule, with armed police officers pointing guns at unarmed youths, as evident in viral video footage.

Sargam Lohiya ji raised the issue of the oppression of women by the administration.

Rashtriya Yuva Gurjar Swabhiman Sangharsh Samiti in Gwalior, along with the Gurjar community, stands united against the extreme oppression of Gurjars from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. If the Gwalior administration and the Madhya Pradesh government do not promptly dismiss false cases against innocent people, put an end to illegal extortion and oppression, and release those who have been unjustly arrested, then on October 12th, thousands of Gurjars from various parts of the country will initiate a jail fill-up protest in Gwalior in large numbers. Furthermore, if their demands are not met, this protest may escalate to a nationwide movement. During this press conference, Mr. Antaram Tanwar, President of the National Gurjar Coordination Committee, Mr. Divakar Bidhudi Gurjar, and Ms. Sargam Lohiya, President of Veerangana Ram Pyari Gurjar Trust, were also present.

Main demands include:

  1. The false cases and awards imposed on Gurjar community members who held a Mahapanchayat on September 25th regarding various issues should be withdrawn.
  2. The removal of Gurjar Samrat Mihir Bhoj’s statue from Gwalior Square, as it is a matter of reverence for millions of people in the country.
  3. The board of Gurjar Pratihara rulers removed from the Boreshwar Temple in Bhind, Madhya Pradesh, should be reinstated.
  4. Justice and financial assistance should be provided to the family of innocent Akash Gurjar, who was killed in a fake encounter.
  5. Wherever the term “Gurjar” has been removed from historical buildings, it should be reinstated.
  6. The establishment of a Gurjar regiment in the Indian Army.
  7. The practice of caste-based reservation in police stations in Gwalior should be ended.
  8. The Gurjar community should be represented in politics based on their population.

Discontent Brews Within BJP as Congress Seizes Opportunity in MP Elections

October 4, 2023

In a surprising turn of events in Madhya Pradesh’s political landscape, discontent is brewing within the BJP ranks. The trigger for this discord can be traced back to the announcement of candidates for the 2023 MP elections, particularly on the Depalpur seat in the Malwa region.

The BJP had fielded Manoj Patel as their candidate for the Depalpur seat, a move that did not sit well with the party’s grassroots workers. They vehemently demanded that Rajendra Chaudhary be given the ticket instead. This decision led to tensions simmering within the party, and it all came to a head when Minister Tulsi Silavat visited the party office in Sanwer.

During Silavat’s visit, BJP workers protested vehemently, brandishing slogans and banners, effectively surrounding the minister. They insisted that Silavat convey their demands to V.D. Sharma, the party’s state president. Their message was clear: If Rajendra Chaudhary isn’t given the ticket for Depalpur, the BJP risks losing crucial votes in the region.

The dissatisfaction within the BJP’s ranks arises from their decision to nominate Manoj Patel, who had previously contested and lost in the 2018 Assembly elections. Critics argue that giving a second chance to a candidate who had faced defeat disregards the dedication and efforts of local party workers.

Rajendra Chaudhary’s supporters within the BJP accuse the party of setting a wrong precedent by sidelining a long-serving leader who has been a prominent voice for the party in the region. This internal strife may have significant consequences for the BJP in the wider Malwa region if not resolved.

As discontent brews within the BJP, the Congress party watches closely, sensing an opportunity to capitalize on the disarray in their rival’s camp. This development adds an intriguing twist to the upcoming MP elections, as the Congress seeks to make the most of the situation and bolster its chances in the state.