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The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has stayed the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) five-year ban on WhatsApp's data-sharing arrangement with Meta companies, marking a crucial development in the ongoing legal battle.

In November 2024, the CCI imposed the ban, citing concerns over WhatsApp's revised privacy policy, which permitted data sharing with Meta for targeted advertising purposes. The regulatory body also slapped a hefty fine of ₹213.14 crore on Meta, accusing it of abusing its dominant market position.

However, in a recent ruling, NCLAT decided to put the ban on hold, expressing apprehensions that such a restriction could jeopardize WhatsApp's operational viability in India. The tribunal also highlighted the fact that the Supreme Court had not issued an interim stay against WhatsApp's contentious 2021 privacy policy update.

Following the stay order, WhatsApp can continue its data-sharing practices with Meta companies for now. Nevertheless, the tribunal has directed WhatsApp to deposit 50% of the imposed penalty, which will be reimbursed if Meta secures a favorable verdict in the ongoing proceedings.

The case is set for its next hearing on March 17, 2025, and has garnered significant attention from the tech industry and regulatory bodies alike. The ruling comes as a major relief for Meta, as it allows the company to sustain its existing business model in one of its largest markets.

Case Overview:

• Case Name: WhatsApp LLC vs. Competition Commission of India
• Judicial Body: National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT)
• Next Hearing Date: March 17, 2025

Industry experts are closely monitoring the case's outcome, which could have far-reaching implications on data privacy regulations and competition laws in India. For now, WhatsApp users in the country will see no immediate changes to their experience, as the platform continues to function under the existing privacy framework.

Anna University has introduced stringent measures to uphold educational standards, mandating that colleges provide precise faculty information to secure affiliation. The university has warned that institutions failing to comply with the new regulations will face severe consequences, including denial of affiliation.

Under the updated guidelines, affiliated colleges must submit comprehensive and accurate faculty details, covering qualifications, experience, and other essential credentials within the specified deadline. Anna University has emphasized that transparency in faculty recruitment is critical to maintaining the quality of higher education in Tamil Nadu.

This move comes in response to increasing concerns regarding discrepancies in faculty data submitted by certain institutions. Anna University aims to eliminate any inconsistencies that could compromise the educational experience for students. The university has also introduced an online system to streamline the submission and verification process, ensuring that the data provided is authentic and up-to-date.

Colleges that fail to adhere to the new affiliation norms will not only face the risk of losing their accreditation but may also encounter further scrutiny and legal action. Anna University officials have urged institutions to take the directive seriously and ensure all documentation is verified before submission.

Steps for Compliance

Timely Submission: Colleges must provide faculty details before the given deadline to avoid penalties.
Accurate Information: All data regarding faculty qualifications and experience must be correct and verifiable.
Use of Online Portal: Institutions are encouraged to utilize the university’s digital platform for seamless submission and tracking.

Educational experts have welcomed the move, stating that it will enhance the credibility of higher education institutions across Tamil Nadu. The focus on faculty qualifications ensures that students receive education from qualified professionals, fostering a more robust academic environment.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the release of the Detailed Application Form-II (DAF-II) for candidates who have successfully cleared the preliminary round of the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Main Examination. Aspirants can now access and submit the form via the official UPSC website.

The deadline for submitting DAF-II is February 1, 2025. UPSC has advised candidates to complete the form submission well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues or delays. The commission has emphasized the importance of filling out the form accurately, as any errors or incomplete information may lead to complications during the selection process.

The IFS Main Examination is set to take place in March 2025, although the exact dates are yet to be officially announced. Candidates should regularly check the UPSC website for updates to stay informed about any changes or additional instructions related to the exam schedule.

UPSC has provided a helpline for candidates who require assistance with the DAF-II submission process. Applicants can reach out to the commission through the helpline numbers 011-23385271 or 011-23381125 for any queries or clarifications.

Candidates are encouraged to thoroughly review the instructions provided by UPSC before submitting the DAF-II. It is essential to ensure that all required details, including educational qualifications, personal information, and other relevant data, are correctly filled in to avoid potential disqualification.

Apart from submitting the DAF-II, candidates must also prepare diligently for the IFS Main Examination, which is known for its comprehensive and challenging syllabus. The exam will test candidates' knowledge in various subjects related to forestry, environment, and general awareness.

With the examination approaching, aspirants are advised to focus on their studies while also ensuring the timely completion of administrative requirements. Missing the submission deadline could result in disqualification, making it crucial for candidates to adhere to all given instructions.

In a significant step towards promoting regional language education, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has introduced Master of Business Administration (MBA) study materials in Odia. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates for education in regional languages and mother tongues to enhance accessibility and inclusivity.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan digitally unveiled the Odia MBA study materials at Jaydev Bhavan in Bhubaneswar. Commending IGNOU's efforts in extending quality higher education across the nation, the minister underscored the importance of learning in one's mother tongue.

"The introduction of MBA study materials in Odia is a landmark step towards inclusivity, offering equal learning opportunities to Odia-speaking students," stated Minister Pradhan. "This initiative will not only facilitate learning in the mother tongue but also contribute to preserving and promoting Odisha's rich cultural heritage."

The study materials are readily available on IGNOU's e-GyanKosh portal, which offers digital resources to students. This move is expected to benefit thousands of students across Odisha and beyond, who prefer studying in their native language.

IGNOU's decision to provide MBA study materials in Odia underscores the university's commitment to advancing regional language education. By taking this step, IGNOU sets a benchmark for other educational institutions to emulate.

As India progresses towards implementing the NEP 2020, such initiatives play a crucial role in fostering inclusivity and diversity in education. By offering study materials in regional languages, IGNOU is effectively bridging language barriers and making education more accessible to students from varied linguistic backgrounds.

The Indian Army has officially launched a recruitment drive for unmarried engineering graduates to enroll in its esteemed Technical Graduate Course (TGC-141), which is set to commence in July 2025 at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun.

This opportunity offers 30 vacancies across various engineering disciplines, providing young aspirants with a chance to serve the nation while pursuing a fulfilling career in the defense forces.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates interested in applying for the TGC-141 must meet the following eligibility conditions:

• Nationality: Must be an unmarried Indian citizen.
• Age Limit: Candidates must be aged between 20 and 27 years as of July 1, 2025.
• Educational Qualification: Applicants must hold an engineering degree or be in the final year of their engineering program in a recognized institution.

Salary and Benefits

Selected candidates will receive an attractive pay scale of ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month, along with additional benefits such as:

• Stipend during the training period at IMA
• Military Service Pay
• Dearness Allowance, Leave Travel Concession (LTC), and other perks applicable to Army officersUpon successful completion of training, candidates will be commissioned as officers in the Indian Army with further career growth opportunities.

Application Process

Interested and eligible candidates can submit their applications online via the official Indian Army recruitment portal: joinindianarmy.nic.in. The application window is open from January 22 to February 16, 2025.

Selection Process

The selection process involves:

• Shortlisting of Applications based on academic performance.
• Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview, which assesses candidates’ psychological, physical, and intellectual capabilities.
• Medical Examination, ensuring candidates meet the required physical fitness standards.
• Why Join the Indian Army through TGC?

The Technical Graduate Course offers a unique blend of technical expertise and leadership training, enabling engineers to contribute to the country's defense capabilities while pursuing a dynamic and rewarding career.

Aspiring engineers who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply early and seize this opportunity to serve the nation with pride and honor.

Mohammed Abdul Arfath, a 25-year-old student from Hyderabad, was found dead in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. Arfath, who was pursuing a Master’s degree in Information Technology at Cleveland State University, had been missing since March 7. His grieving family is now pleading with US authorities to expedite the return of his mortal remains to India.

Arfath’s disappearance took a shocking turn when his family received a ransom call demanding $1,200, intensifying concerns about his safety. The sudden demand raised suspicions, and authorities were alerted. Despite efforts to locate him, Arfath was tragically found dead, leaving his family devastated and seeking answers about the circumstances leading to his demise.

The Indian Consulate in New York has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured the family of full support in facilitating the repatriation process. Officials are collaborating with local US authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into the tragic event, hoping to uncover the truth behind Arfath’s disappearance and death.

Amid their grief, Arfath's family has reached out to the Indian government, urging swift intervention to bring back his mortal remains for the last rites. The incident has once again highlighted concerns regarding the safety and security of Indian students pursuing education abroad. The family is anxiously awaiting further details from the ongoing investigation and hoping for a swift resolution to their ordeal.

Authorities in Cleveland have launched an in-depth investigation into the circumstances surrounding Arfath’s death. While initial details remain scarce, officials are exploring all possible angles, including the authenticity of the ransom call and potential foul play. The case has drawn attention within the Indian student community, raising awareness about safety challenges faced by international students in foreign countries.

As the investigation progresses, Arfath's family remains hopeful that they will receive the necessary support to bring him back home and bid him a final farewell.