Allied Healthcare (GAHC)

A research team led by Kumar Mritunjay has developed a three-dimensional brain-like platform that allows living neurons to interact with electronic systems in ways that closely resemble real brain activity, marking a major advance in neuroscience and bio-electronic computing.

The study, published in Nature Electronics, introduces a new type of “brain-on-a-chip” system in which living neurons grow inside a 3D electronic scaffold embedded with sensors capable of recording and stimulating neural activity.

Unlike earlier brain-chip models that relied on flat, two-dimensional structures, the new platform enables neurons to grow in all directions, more closely replicating the architecture of the human brain. Researchers say this allows neural networks to form and evolve in a more natural manner.

Kumar Mritunjay, who completed his BTech from the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur before pursuing a dual PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering and Neuroscience at Princeton University, led the interdisciplinary effort combining neuroscience, electronics, and artificial intelligence research.

The platform’s embedded microelectrodes create a two-way communication system between living tissue and electronics. These sensors can monitor electrical activity generated by neurons while also delivering targeted stimulation to influence neural behaviour.

Researchers said the system functions as a controllable biological neural network, allowing scientists to observe how neurons form connections, respond to stimulation, and adapt over time. One of the key breakthroughs is the ability to maintain stable neural activity for several months, enabling long-term observation of learning and memory-related processes.

The programmable nature of the device also opens possibilities for training biological neural systems in ways similar to artificial intelligence models. Instead of relying solely on digital algorithms, the platform uses real living neurons to process and adapt to information.

Scientists believe the technology could have wide-ranging applications in studying neurological disorders, testing treatments, improving brain-machine interfaces, and developing next-generation computing systems inspired by biological intelligence.

The work represents a growing trend in hybrid bio-electronic technologies, where biology and computing increasingly overlap. Experts say such systems may eventually contribute to more energy-efficient computing architectures, since biological neurons process information using far less energy than conventional computer hardware.

The research also underscores the growing contribution of Indian scientists to frontier fields such as neuroengineering, AI, and advanced electronics.

Although still at an experimental stage, the 3D neural platform is being viewed as a significant step toward future systems that combine living intelligence with machine precision, bringing concepts once confined to science fiction closer to practical reality.

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026 may have felt easier for many candidates—but that could come at a cost. Experts are now predicting a rise in qualifying cut-offs across categories, driven by a combination of a simpler paper and record participation.

Held on May 3, the exam saw a massive turnout, with 22,05,035 candidates appearing across 37 states and Union Territories—an attendance rate of 96.92%. Students and coaching institutes largely described the paper as more accessible than last year. Biology was considered straightforward and closely aligned with NCERT textbooks, Chemistry was balanced, while Physics remained relatively challenging due to numerical complexity. Overall, however, the paper was perceived as easier than 2025, setting the stage for higher competition at the top.

This shift in difficulty has led to varying cut-off predictions from major coaching players. Institutes like Aakash Institute and Physics Wallah estimate the general category cut-off to fall between 135 and 138 marks. In contrast, Motion Education has projected a higher lower-end threshold of around 144 marks. For reserved categories such as OBC, SC, and ST, Aakash and PW suggest a range of 107–137, while Motion places it higher at 113–143—indicating a likely increase of 5–10 marks compared to last year.

These differences reflect how each institute weighs factors like subject difficulty, candidate performance distribution, and overall competition. However, the consensus remains clear: cut-offs are expected to rise.

A look at recent trends supports this outlook. General category cut-offs have fluctuated over the past few years—from 720–137 in 2023 to 686–144 in 2025—largely influenced by exam difficulty and the number of test-takers. In 2026, despite the addition of nearly 11,000 MBBS seats nationwide, the sheer scale of participation means competition is unlikely to ease significantly.

Experts caution that an increase in seats does not automatically translate into lower cut-offs, especially in high-stakes exams like NEET where demand far outpaces supply. A larger candidate pool combined with an easier paper often pushes scores upward, tightening the race for top ranks.

For students, this creates a mixed scenario. If cut-offs rise as predicted, those on the borderline may need to consider private or deemed universities, balancing affordability with career goals. On the other hand, if actual cut-offs settle closer to the lower-end estimates, more candidates could secure government medical seats—particularly with the expanded intake.

In either case, experts stress the importance of early preparation for counselling. Keeping documents ready, tracking seat matrices, and understanding college preferences will be crucial in navigating the next phase.

The takeaway is clear: while the paper may have been easier, the competition is only getting tougher.

The shadow of the brutal rape and murder at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital continues to loom over West Bengal’s public discourse, with fresh political ripples emerging from Panihati. In a striking electoral outcome, Ratna Debnath—mother of the victim—has won the Panihati seat, transforming a deeply personal tragedy into a powerful democratic statement.

Her victory comes at a time when the state is still grappling with questions of safety, accountability, and institutional response following the incident that shook Kolkata and beyond. For many voters, the result is not merely about political representation but about channeling collective grief and anger into action. The ballot, in this case, has become a medium of protest.

Ratna Debnath’s entry into politics was not born out of ambition but out of a relentless pursuit of justice. After the tragic loss of her daughter, she emerged as a voice demanding accountability from institutions meant to protect students and young professionals. Her campaign resonated strongly with citizens who saw in her struggle a reflection of larger systemic failures.

At the heart of this political moment lies a deeper concern about the safety and well-being of students within educational institutions. The RG Kar case exposed uncomfortable truths about gaps in campus security, administrative oversight, and crisis response mechanisms. For students, especially young women, the incident amplified fears that spaces meant for learning and growth may not always guarantee protection.

Education experts argue that the tragedy has triggered a necessary, albeit painful, conversation about the structural weaknesses within the system. From inadequate surveillance to delayed institutional action, the case has underscored the urgent need for reforms that go beyond symbolic assurances. Many believe that stricter protocols, transparent grievance redressal systems, and accountability frameworks must become integral to campus governance.

Ratna Debnath’s victory reflects how these concerns have moved beyond classrooms and into the political arena. Her win signals that issues of student safety and institutional responsibility are no longer confined to academic debates—they are now influencing electoral choices. Voters, particularly the youth and parents, appear to be demanding tangible change rather than rhetoric.

The backdrop of her journey also highlights the emotional toll borne by families navigating such tragedies. Yet, by stepping into public life, Debnath has reframed her personal loss as a broader fight for justice, ensuring that her daughter’s story continues to spark dialogue and demand reform.

Observers note that this election result could mark a shift in how education-related issues are perceived in politics. Traditionally overshadowed by larger economic or infrastructural concerns, the safety and dignity of students are now emerging as central electoral themes.

As West Bengal processes both the memory of the RG Kar incident and the implications of this political outcome, one thing is clear: the intersection of tragedy, education, and governance has reshaped public expectations. Ratna Debnath’s win stands not just as a personal milestone, but as a reflection of a society seeking accountability—and a safer future for its students.

In a significant development in India’s higher education landscape, the Gokula Education Foundation has announced the launch of the Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management in Bengaluru. Positioned as a next-generation deemed-to-be university, RISM is set to commence its first academic session in August 2026 at the Ramaiah campus on New BEL Road.

The new institution aims to redefine STEM and management education in India through an industry-integrated, globally aligned academic model. At its core is a strategic collaboration with the University at Albany, a leading public research university in the United States. This partnership is expected to bring globally benchmarked curricula, research exposure, and international academic standards to Indian students.

RISM will offer undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes across engineering, science, and management disciplines. The academic focus is firmly aligned with future-ready domains such as artificial intelligence, aerospace, and interdisciplinary technologies—areas increasingly shaping the global workforce. The institute’s leadership has described it as a “systems-led, interdisciplinary” university designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry needs.

Backed by an estimated ₹850 crore investment from the Ramaiah Group, the project reflects a strong push toward building a world-class education ecosystem. RISM will operate within the broader academic network of the foundation, which already includes institutions like the Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Ramaiah Medical College, and Ramaiah Memorial Hospital.

The institute’s launch comes at a time when India is increasingly focusing on globalising its higher education system and aligning with industry demands. By integrating research-driven learning with practical application, RISM aims to prepare students for emerging careers in high-growth sectors.

Education experts see this move as part of a broader trend where private institutions are investing heavily in interdisciplinary education and international collaborations. With its emphasis on innovation, global exposure, and industry linkage, RISM could become a key player in shaping India’s next generation of STEM and management professionals.

As the demand for skilled talent in areas like AI, aerospace, and advanced technologies continues to rise, institutions like RISM signal a shift toward future-focused education—where adaptability, research, and global competence are at the forefront.

In a major reform aimed at expanding medical education capacity, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has scrapped the 150 MBBS seat cap for undergraduate medical colleges, offering greater flexibility to institutions and states. The move marks a significant rollback of the restrictions introduced under the Undergraduate Medical Education Regulations 2023 (UG-MSR 2023) and is expected to accelerate the growth of medical infrastructure across the country.

Under the revised norms, medical colleges are no longer bound by the earlier ceiling of 150 MBBS seats from the 2024–25 academic year. While the notification does not explicitly state a new upper limit, sources indicate a return to the earlier system, where colleges could expand intake up to 250 seats, subject to infrastructure and faculty requirements.

This policy shift is seen as a response to India’s growing demand for healthcare professionals. By removing the cap, the NMC has opened the door for both new and existing medical colleges to scale up capacity, potentially increasing the number of MBBS seats in India and addressing the doctor shortage.

Another key reform is the withdrawal of the population-based restriction that mandated one medical college per 10 lakh population in a state or union territory. This change simplifies the approval process and allows states to expand medical education infrastructure based on demand rather than rigid population metrics.

In addition, the NMC has relaxed norms related to the distance between medical colleges and their attached teaching hospitals. The earlier requirement of a maximum 30-minute travel time has now been replaced with a more practical distance-based rule—10 kilometres for most regions and up to 15 kilometres for institutions in geographically challenging areas such as the North Eastern and Himalayan states.

Officials say these changes are aligned with the broader goals of the National Medical Commission Act 2019, which aims to modernise medical education and improve access to quality healthcare training. By easing regulatory bottlenecks, the reforms are expected to encourage private and public investment in medical colleges, particularly in underserved regions.

The updated norms, issued by the Undergraduate Medical Education Board under the NMC, come into immediate effect and are part of a larger push to make India’s medical education system more responsive, flexible, and scalable.

Experts believe that removing the MBBS seat cap will not only increase opportunities for aspiring doctors but also strengthen the country’s healthcare system in the long run. However, they also caution that expansion must be accompanied by strict quality control to ensure that infrastructure, faculty standards, and clinical exposure are not compromised.

As India continues to grapple with healthcare challenges and rising population demands, the NMC’s latest reforms could play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between medical education supply and healthcare needs—making this a landmark moment for the future of MBBS education in India.

In a bid to bridge educational gaps and support aspirants from underserved communities, the district administration of Malkangiri has launched a free summer coaching programme for Plus II science students preparing for competitive exams like NEET and JEE.

The initiative targets students who have recently appeared for their Higher Secondary Education (HSE) examinations and are aiming to pursue careers in medicine, engineering, and core sciences. Officials said the programme focuses on strengthening conceptual understanding, enhancing problem-solving skills, and building confidence among participants at an early stage.

A significant number of students have already enrolled in the integrated coaching programme. Along with covering the Plus II science curriculum, the sessions include structured guidance on exam strategies, time management, and question-solving techniques tailored for national-level entrance tests.

The programme has been designed keeping in mind the socio-economic realities of the district, where many talented students from farming and tribal backgrounds often lack access to expensive private coaching institutes or educational hubs in urban centres. By offering free academic support locally, the administration aims to level the playing field and ensure equal opportunities for meritorious students.

In addition to academic training, students are being informed about government support schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Medhabi Chhatra Protsahan Yojana. Under this initiative, eligible candidates can avail financial assistance for pursuing higher education, particularly in professional and scientific fields, without placing a burden on their families.

Officials believe that the combined approach of academic coaching and awareness about scholarships will not only improve exam readiness but also encourage students to continue higher education, ultimately contributing to the region’s educational and socio-economic development.