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Great news for students awaiting their PSEB Punjab Board Class 8th and 12th results! The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB), Mohali, has officially announced that the results for both classes will be declared on April 30th. Students can access their scorecards on the official website – pseb.ac.in – once they are released. To check their results, students will need to input their registration number/roll number and password. For Class 12, the intermediate results are set to be announced at noon on April 30th (time to be confirmed). Last year, the results were declared on May 24th for exams conducted between February 20th and April 20th. This year, the board conducted the exams from February 13th to March 30th, 2024. The exams were taken by a total of [insert number] students, including [insert number] girls and [insert number] boys. The board has taken measures to maintain exam integrity, including surprise visits to examination centers. After the results are declared, students will have the option to request photocopies of their answer booklets and OMR sheets. Those who do not pass the exams will have the opportunity to appear for compartment exams, with details to be announced later. Stay tuned for the latest updates on PSEB Punjab Board Class 8th and 12th results!

HCL Technologies witnessed a significant downturn in its stock value, plummeting over 6% following the release of its March quarter earnings report. The stock stumbled to Rs 1,382.45 on the BSE and Rs 1,382.10 on the NSE, marking it as the top underperformer among both the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty companies. The company reported a stagnant year-on-year growth in net profit for the March quarter, amounting to Rs 3,986 crore. This figure represents an 8.4% decline from the previous quarter, attributed to escalating employee costs and a tightening of IT expenditures worldwide. Despite these challenges, HCL Technologies deemed its performance as “decent” considering the prevailing global macroeconomic conditions. The company’s consolidated net profit for the fourth quarter of FY24 stood at Rs 3,986 crore, compared to Rs 3,983 crore in the corresponding period of the previous year. Additionally, the company provided guidance for the fiscal year 2025, forecasting a 3–5% growth in revenue in constant currency terms and an EBIT margin ranging from 18% to 19%. As HCL Tech navigates through these economic fluctuations, investors await further insights into the company’s strategies for maintaining growth and profitability amidst a dynamic market landscape.

The year 2024 has unfolded as a remarkable chapter for Tamil actor Varalaxmi Sarathkumar. Amidst the triumph of her blockbuster release, Hanu-Man, her personal life witnessed a significant milestone with her engagement to Mumbai-based gallerist Nicholai Sachdev in March. However, amidst the celebration of their love, they’ve also faced a barrage of cyberbullying, primarily targeting Nicholai’s appearance and past marriage. Varalaxmi, renowned for her fearless demeanor, recently addressed these negative comments head-on, affirming that they hold no power over their relationship. In a candid interview with Galatta Tamil, as reported by India Today, she dismissed the critics with a poignant declaration, “Even my father married twice; there’s nothing wrong with it as long as he’s happy. I’ve seen how people talk about Nick; he’s handsome in my eyes. I don’t care about people who make negative comments about our relationship. Why should I answer to anyone? From the very beginning, I have avoided doing that.” The actor, daughter of veteran Tamil actor Sarathkumar and his first wife Chaya, further emphasized the significance of maintaining positivity even amidst separation. Reflecting on Nicholai’s former marriage, she remarked, “If two people are unable to remain together, it’s better they part ways. Why keep being unhappy? Though you guys couldn’t remain together, you can still maintain a cordial relationship. I have met his (Nicholai) ex-wife; she is an amazing person. His daughter is also a beautiful person.” Describing Nicholai as the embodiment of her ideal partner, Varalaxmi illuminated their bond with warmth and sincerity. “He makes me laugh, supports my career, and always puts me first. He’s extremely loving, pampering, and fiercely protective of me and his family. We share a love for food; he even completes my sentences. We met 14 years ago, and instantly, there was something, but we didn’t date then. We stayed in touch as friends, and it’s only recently that love blossomed.” In a world consumed by the frenzy of social media, Varalaxmi revealed Nicholai’s preference for privacy, devoid of any digital footprint. This intentional detachment from the virtual realm speaks volumes about their focus on genuine connection over superficial validation. As Varalaxmi prepares for the release of the action thriller Raayan, helmed by Dhanush, she stands as a beacon of resilience against cyberbullying, championing love, acceptance, and the unwavering pursuit of happiness.

In a strategic move reflecting lessons learned from past electoral outcomes, the Congress party in Haryana has unveiled a carefully balanced list of candidates for the upcoming elections. The selection process underscores the party’s effort to cater to the diverse demographics and communities within the state. Amidst the backdrop of BJP’s sweeping victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where it claimed all 10 constituencies in Haryana, the Congress aims to restore equilibrium by ensuring representation from various influential castes. Notably, the party has distributed tickets across nine constituencies, with Kurukshetra being held by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The candidate list exhibits a conscious effort to accommodate key communities, with two tickets allocated to Jats, Dalits, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) each. Additionally, one ticket each has been allotted to the Punjabi and Brahmin communities, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity. Among the prominent candidates are Deepender Hooda and Jai Prakash representing the Jat community, while Kumari Selja and Varun Chaudhary stand as the Scheduled Caste nominees. Notably, the Congress has strategically positioned candidates from various communities to challenge BJP contenders effectively. The electoral strategy extends beyond mere representation, with considerations for caste dynamics and previous voting patterns. For instance, the Congress has fielded candidates from communities that constitute significant portions of the electorate, aiming to capitalize on existing support bases. In a state where caste equations play a crucial role in electoral outcomes, the Congress’ approach underscores a nuanced understanding of Haryana’s socio-political landscape. By aligning candidate selection with demographic realities and community sentiments, the party seeks to consolidate its position and mount a formidable challenge to its opponents. As the electoral battle intensifies, the Congress’ emphasis on inclusivity and balance sets the stage for a competitive and dynamic political landscape in Haryana. With a keen eye on diversity and representation, the party endeavors to navigate the intricate web of caste affiliations and emerge as a formidable contender in the upcoming elections.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced draft guidelines aimed at fostering transparency in the aggregation of loan products by lending service providers (LSPs). The proposed framework seeks to empower borrowers with comprehensive information about available loan offers, thereby enabling informed decision-making. Under the draft guidelines, banks and non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) are required to ensure that their loan service providers furnish a digital view of all loan offers accessible to borrowers from willing lenders with whom the LSPs have arrangements. This digital view encompasses essential details such as the lender's identity, loan amount, tenor, annual percentage rate, and key terms and conditions, facilitating a fair comparison of various offers. To uphold transparency, the RBI mandates that the content displayed by LSPs remain unbiased and refrain from promoting specific lenders' products through deceptive practices. Additionally, LSPs must adopt a consistent approach in assessing lenders' willingness to offer loans, with full disclosure of their methodology. Furthermore, the guidelines stipulate the provision of a link to the key facts statement (KFS) for each regulated entity, ensuring borrowers have access to essential information about the lenders. LSPs, acting as agents of regulated entities, are entrusted with various functions related to customer acquisition, underwriting support, pricing support, and servicing, among others. However, the RBI emphasizes the need for adherence to outsourcing guidelines to maintain operational integrity. The proliferation of LSPs offering loan aggregation services underscores the importance of ensuring transparency in the borrower-lender relationship. Particularly in cases where LSPs have arrangements with multiple lenders, borrowers may not have upfront visibility into the potential lender. The draft guidelines aim to address this issue, promoting fairness and accountability in the digital lending ecosystem. By setting forth clear norms for loan aggregation, the RBI seeks to enhance consumer protection and foster a more transparent and competitive lending landscape. As stakeholders provide feedback on the draft guidelines, the regulatory framework is poised to evolve, further bolstering trust and confidence in the digital lending space.

The recent wedding of Arti Singh, sister of Krushna Abhishek, not only marked a joyous occasion but also served as a platform for reconciliation and heartfelt moments. Among the unexpected guests was none other than Govinda, whose presence stirred both surprise and nostalgia, especially for those familiar with the longstanding feud between him and Krushna In a candid interview with Times of India, Kashmera Shah, Krushna's wife, shared her perspective on the surreal encounter with Govinda. She described the moment as she welcomed guests at the entrance, with Krushna and Arti gracing the stage. When Govinda made his entrance, Kashmera couldn't help but feel a wave of surrealism wash over her. Approaching him with a traditional 'namaste,' she recounted the heartfelt exchange that followed. As Kashmera attempted to convey her apology by touching Govinda's feet, she was met with a surprising response. Instead of allowing the gesture, Govinda offered his blessings with words of encouragement. For Kashmera, this exchange symbolized closure and reconciliation, marking the end of an 8-year feud that had caused rifts between families. The emotional depth of the moment extended to Kashmera's twins, who were introduced to Govinda. His warmth and blessings left Kashmera overwhelmed with emotion, emphasizing the significance of the occasion. However, amidst the joyous reunion, one notable absence was Govinda's wife, Sunita Ahuja. When questioned about her absence, Kashmera acknowledged Sunita's right to her feelings, hinting at underlying tensions that still needed resolution. Despite the complexities of their past, Kashmera expressed her admiration for Sunita, referring to her as an 'alpha' woman and indicating a desire to mend their relationship in due time. Reflecting on the origins of the feud, it's evident that misunderstandings played a significant role. The rift initially sparked from a tweet by Kashmera in 2018, which was misconstrued by Govinda's wife, leading to severed ties between the families. Yet, the wedding served as a catalyst for reconciliation, bridging the gap that had divided them for years. In Krushna's own words, the reunion with Govinda was not just a matter of familial connection but an emotional bond that transcended past grievances. His joy at seeing 'Mama' (a term of endearment for Govinda) reflected the sentiments shared by many witnessing the reconciliation unfold. As the dust settles on the past, Arti Singh's wedding stands as a testament to the power of forgiveness and the healing that comes with it. For Kashmera Shah and Govinda, it's a chapter closed, paving the way for a renewed sense of unity and understanding.

Anantkumar Hegde, a seasoned Member of Parliament (MP) representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), emerges as a prominent figure in Indian politics, renowned for his significant and multifaceted contributions. Through his website profile, one can delve into the extensive repertoire of Hegde’s political endeavors, which have left an indelible mark on the socio-political landscape of India. At the forefront of Anantkumar Hegde’s political contributions lies his unwavering commitment to serving the nation with integrity, dedication, and foresight. As a six-time MP from Uttara Kannada constituency in Karnataka, Hegde has consistently strived to address the pressing issues facing his constituents and the nation at large. His tenure in Parliament has been marked by a relentless pursuit of policies and initiatives aimed at promoting development, welfare, and inclusive growth. One of Hegde’s notable political contributions lies in his advocacy for regional development and empowerment. Hailing from the picturesque region of Uttara Kannada, he has been a staunch advocate for the socio-economic upliftment of his constituency. Through his relentless efforts, he has championed infrastructural development projects, advocated for improved connectivity, and facilitated access to essential services, thereby catalyzing progress and prosperity in the region. Moreover, Anantkumar Hegde has been a vocal proponent of good governance, transparency, and accountability in public administration. Through his parliamentary interventions, he has consistently raised pertinent issues related to governance, corruption, and administrative reforms. His relentless pursuit of accountability and ethical conduct in governance reflects his unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and the rule of law. Hegde’s political contributions extend beyond legislative duties to encompass social and cultural spheres. He has been a steadfast supporter of preserving India’s rich cultural heritage and promoting national identity. Through his advocacy for cultural preservation and promotion, he has endeavored to safeguard India’s diverse cultural fabric and heritage for future generations. In addition to his legislative roles, Anantkumar Hegde has played a pivotal role in shaping the ideological discourse within the BJP and broader political landscape. As a vocal advocate for Hindutva and nationalist ideologies, he has contributed significantly to shaping the party’s agenda and policies. His ideological clarity and unwavering commitment to nationalist principles have earned him respect and admiration within the party ranks and among supporters nationwide. In conclusion, Anantkumar Hegde stands as a beacon of principled leadership and unwavering commitment to public service in Indian politics. Through his multifaceted contributions, he has left an indelible mark on the socio-political landscape of India, championing development, welfare, and national unity. As India navigates the complex challenges of the 21st century, leaders like Anantkumar Hegde serve as guiding lights, inspiring the nation towards a future defined by progress, prosperity, and inclusive growth.

Have you ever wondered about the intricate strategies and behind-the-scenes actions that shape election outcomes? The recent events in Surat Lok Sabha constituency provide a fascinating glimpse into the political maneuvering that can alter the course of an election. It all began with a seemingly routine objection raised by Dinesh Jodhani, the BJP candidate's agent, regarding the signatures on the nomination papers of Nilesh Kumbhani, the Congress nominee, and Suresh Padsala, a dummy candidate of the same party. Jodhani alleged that the signatures had been forged, setting off a chain of events that ultimately led to the declaration of BJP candidate Mukesh Dalal as the winner without contest. What followed was a meticulously orchestrated sequence of actions. Affidavits disowning the signatures on Kumbhani and Padsala's nomination forms surfaced, duly notarized by a member of the Surat City BJP legal cell. Kiran Ghoghari, the legal cell member, clarified that he had assisted the proposers in disowning the signatures purely in a professional capacity, charging a fee higher than his usual rate. The crux of the matter lay in the validity of the signatures. Kumbhani had submitted signatures of his relatives and associates as his proposers, but objections raised by the BJP agent led to a special hearing conducted by Saurabh Parghi, the District Election Officer and Collector of Surat. The proposers, who were initially reported missing, later surfaced and affirmed on camera that they had not signed the nomination forms. Despite attempts by Kumbhani to argue discrepancies and even alleging the kidnapping of his proposers, the evidence presented by the BJP's legal team proved compelling enough for Parghi to reject the Congress nomination. Interestingly, amidst the political drama, a photograph of Abdul Hamid Khan, a candidate who withdrew from the race, alongside Gujarat BJP chief CR Paatil circulated on social media. Khan clarified that his decision to withdraw was voluntary, devoid of any external pressure, and his interaction with Paatil was merely a customary photo-op. The unfolding events in Surat underscore the intricate dynamics and tactical maneuvers that often determine electoral outcomes. Behind the scenes, legal scrutiny, strategic objections, and political alliances shape the narrative, ultimately influencing the course of democracy. In the end, Surat was won not just by the declaration of a candidate as elected unopposed, but by the careful orchestration of legal procedures and political strategies, showcasing the power of meticulous planning in the realm of electoral politics.

Everest Food Products, a renowned name in India's spice market, recently faced scrutiny as regulators in Hong Kong and Singapore raised concerns about the safety of its products. Despite this, the company assures consumers that its spices are safe for consumption. With its spice mixes being popular not only in India but also exported to various countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, Everest came under the spotlight after regulatory actions prompted quality checks. However, the company's director, Rajiv Shah, emphasized that their exports undergo rigorous testing and approval from the laboratories of the Spice Board of India, ensuring their safety. Addressing the recent incident, Shah clarified that Singapore authorities examined only one out of the 60 Everest products and found no cause for alarm. The focus was on Everest's fish curry masala, which allegedly contained high levels of a cancer-causing pesticide. Despite this, Everest maintains that its products meet safety standards and there is no need for concern. The situation mirrors a similar case involving another popular spice company, MDH, which also faced sales halts and quality checks in India following regulatory actions in Hong Kong. Both Everest and MDH are under scrutiny due to allegations of high levels of ethylene oxide, a substance deemed unfit for human consumption and posing long-term health risks. While Singapore's food agency advises consumers against consuming the implicated product and suggests seeking medical advice if worried, it's essential to note that spices from Everest and MDH have been staples in home and restaurant kitchens across the Indian subcontinent for years. As regulatory authorities continue their investigations, consumers can rest assured that Everest remains committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and safety in its products.

In the shimmering glow of camera flashes, Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput stepped out hand in hand, only to find themselves engulfed by a swarm of paparazzi. It was a typical night out for the couple until Kapoor's irritation became evident. When Shahid Kapoor gets annoyed, it's hard not to see shades of his infamous character, Kabir Singh. On a recent evening, while out with his wife Mira Rajput, Kapoor lost his cool amidst the paparazzi frenzy that surrounded them. In a video circulating online, Shahid and Mira can be seen making their way to their car after what seemed like a pleasant dinner. But as they walked, the flashing lights and pressing crowd visibly unsettled the actor. "Guys, can you stop it? Please behave yourselves," Shahid implored the paparazzi, his frustration palpable. While Mira remained silent, Shahid ensured she safely settled into the car before turning back to face the relentless cameras, his displeasure evident. The scene took a dramatic turn as the video was juxtaposed with the intense background score from the blockbuster film 'Kabir Singh', a role in which Shahid delivered a powerful performance. Social media erupted with comments, with one user criticizing the paparazzi's invasive behavior, remarking, "Anyone would get irritated with cameras following them around 24/7." Another user quipped, "I swear he was going to turn into Kabir Singh." Shahid Kapoor, known for his versatility, was recently seen in the successful romantic comedy 'Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya', alongside Kriti Sanon. His next venture, 'Deva', promises to be an action-packed spectacle. While celebrities are accustomed to the spotlight, moments like these serve as a reminder that even stars crave moments of privacy and respite from the relentless gaze of the media. After all, behind the glitz and glamour, they are just like us, seeking a semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos of stardom.

The erstwhile industrial town in Tamil Nadu is a bustling hub of NEET/JEE coaching institutes now. For years, Namakkal used to be the district in Tamil Nadu that produced the State toppers in the board exams. Then NEET came and changed it all. From around 2013 onwards, Namakkal emerged as a coaching hub, and has grown steadily since. Today it boasts around 15 coaching centres, eight of which are well-known across Tamil Nadu. The erstwhile industrial town, famous for its temples and poultry farming, has been economically rejuvenated by the upsurge in NEET/JEE coaching institutes, and looks set to become the Kota of South India. However, there has been a strange downside. The managing trustee of a distinguished private school in Namakkal told Frontline, “After NEET was introduced, many students began shifting focus away from the board exams because those marks weren’t counted anymore. That’s when our place in the State rankings took a hit.” ‘Integrated’ system Schools in Namakkal and neighbouring districts such as Krishnagiri, Karur, and Dharmapuri then began to offer the “integrated” option to science students: study the syllabus for the board examination and prepare for NEET or JEE simultaneously. E. Soniyadevi, who studied in the integrated class and passed out in 2022, told Frontline that the integrated system in classes XI and XII was harmful. “I studied in a Dharmapuri school that had tied up with a coaching institute. Six of us opted for the integrated class. By the end of class XII, I was the only one left because the pressure from both sides—schools telling us to focus on board exams and the coaches telling us to prioritise competitive exams—was extremely difficult.” Soniyadevi said her mental health was affected. She pointed to the lack of support from both teachers and coaches, and the guilt she felt whenever she studied for one exam over the other. Meanwhile, the introduction of NEET has seen students, including those still in school and those who have passed class XII, gravitate towards Namakkal. Green Park School alone has close to a lakh students, so in the next four to five years it could become as big as Kota. The centres are expensive. A six-month crash course costs around Rs.25,000, and a year-long programme ranges from Rs.50,000 to Rs.1 lakh. Many centres also offer boarding facilities. Highlights For years, Namakkal used to be the district in Tamil Nadu that produced the State toppers in the board exams. Then NEET came and changed it all. The erstwhile industrial town, famous for its temples and poultry farming, has been economically rejuvenated by the upsurge in NEET/JEE coaching institutes, and looks set to become the Kota of South India. Sathiesh S.S., managing director of Feathers coaching centre, spoke about how Namakkal can avoid Kota’s mistakes. The solutions included improving motivation, teacher-pupil relations, mental well-being, and counselling for students, he said. Avoiding pitfalls Can Namakkal avoid the pitfalls of the Kota system? Karthick Shivakumar, a Namakkal resident, enrolled at a centre in Kota for classes XI and XII hoping to get a high NEET score but could not succeed. He returned to Namakkal, joined another centre, and is now an MBBS student at Madurai Medical College. Shivakumar spoke to Frontline about the differences between Kota and Namakkal. He said, “Owing to the high number of students, which runs into lakhs, there is no scope for a teacher-student relationship or individual attention of any kind in Kota.” He also spoke of moving far from family and friends. “The first six months at Kota were very difficult,” he said. “I used to become depressed whenever I scored less in a test and couldn’t speak to anyone about it.” Feathers is a coaching centre in Namakkal that was started in 2015. Around 200 students are enrolled in its main campus, which focusses on students who have completed school but have taken a gap year to prepare for NEET or JEE. Frontline spoke to Sathiesh S.S., managing director of the centre, about how Namakkal can avoid Kota’s mistakes. Sathiesh said the solutions included improving motivation, teacher-pupil relations, mental well-being, and counselling for students. “That is missing in coaching institutes at Kota, and even if they wish to include such steps, they cannot because the student count is too high,” he said. He also noted that students live in private accommodation as there are no boarding facilities. “From what I have heard from students who studied there, living on their own with no one to talk to or answer to, becoming involved in personal relationships, and dealing with those failures too become a factor that damages their mental health.” Are more regional coaching hubs the solution? Sathiesh disagreed: “There needs to be a revolutionary shift at the school level whereby teachers—at government schools and private schools, irrespective of the affiliated board—need to be better equipped to train students to crack competitive exams. I don’t think more coaching centres are the answer. The need for them arose only because students, after finishing school, found they lacked the foundation for either NEET or JEE.”

The report reveals government schools in Bihar stare at abysmal pupil attendance and severe teacher shortage. Shedding light on the dismal state of the schooling system in Bihar and the impact of the post-COVID crisis, a new survey report titled “Where Are the Kids?” was released in Patna on August 4. The report, conducted by Jan Jagran Shakti Sanghathan (JJSS) in January-February 2023, is based on a survey of 81 government primary and upper-primary schools in Katihar and Araria districts of Bihar. The survey findings reveal a grim situation where none of the surveyed schools meet the norms of the Right to Education (RtE) Act. The attendance of pupils in these schools is shockingly low, with a meagre 20 per cent of children being present on the day of the survey. The majority of these students come from impoverished families and marginalised communities, exacerbating the educational disparities. Flourish logoA Flourish chart One of the most significant issues plaguing the schooling system is the acute shortage of teachers. Only 35 per cent of primary schools and a mere 5 per cent of upper-primary schools meet the prescribed pupil-teacher ratio of one teacher per 30 children, as mandated by the RtE Act. Furthermore, during the survey, it was found that only 58 per cent of the appointed teachers were on duty, raising serious concerns about the commitment of the teaching workforce in government schools. The report also highlights the adverse effects of the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme for textbooks and uniforms on economically disadvantaged families. With limited financial resources, many poor families are forced to make a difficult choice between purchasing essential textbooks and uniforms or fulfilling basic necessities. As a result, numerous children are left without proper textbooks or uniforms. Additionally, it is worth noting that almost all teachers are against the DBT system for textbooks. The COVID-19 crisis dealt a severe blow to the schooling system, leaving a lasting impact on the learning outcomes of students. According to the survey, a majority of teachers expressed concern that a significant number of children in Classes 1-5 had forgotten how to read and write by the time schools reopened last year. Despite this alarming situation, little to no measures have been taken to support these struggling students. Moreover, the report raises alarm over the increasing prevalence of cheap and dingy tuition centres that threaten to displace government schools. The unhealthy environment of such tuition centres poses risks to children’s well-being and hinders their access to quality education. Addressing this crisis requires urgent action from the authorities. The report suggests strict compliance with the RtE Act, which includes ensuring an adequate pupil-teacher ratio in all schools. Furthermore, providing eggs daily with the midday meal could help incentivise attendance and improve the nutritional status of students. A crucial step towards restoring government schools would be imposing a ban on tuitions during school hours to discourage the exodus of students to private tutoring centres. The survey report underscores the need for immediate attention and comprehensive reforms in Bihar’s schooling system. It highlights successful models, such as UMS Chargharia, demonstrating that the revival of government schools is possible. Only through a concerted effort and a commitment to children’s education can the state hope to overcome the challenges and create a brighter future for its young learners.