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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.

Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) has issued an advisory to its international students from Afghanistan, Iraq, and Iran, urging them to refrain from making comments on national affairs. The advisory aims to maintain a harmonious academic environment and prevent any potential conflicts or diplomatic issues that may arise from statements on sensitive topics.

According to the university, international students are advised to exercise caution, particularly regarding matters related to India's relations with their home countries. AMU authorities have stressed the importance of maintaining neutrality, ensuring that students do not inadvertently spark controversies by engaging in discussions on delicate issues.

The advisory highlights the importance of students maintaining a neutral stance on sensitive national and international matters. It underscores the university's intention to prevent unnecessary disruptions to the educational atmosphere and to safeguard students from unintended diplomatic entanglements. AMU officials have encouraged students to focus on their academic pursuits and cultural exchange, rather than engaging in discussions that could potentially lead to misunderstandings.

In issuing the advisory, AMU reaffirmed its dedication to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their nationality. The university recognizes the rich cultural diversity within its campus and aims to promote mutual respect and cross-cultural understanding. AMU's commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space for learning remains a top priority, and this advisory is seen as a proactive step to ensure the well-being of all students.

University authorities have clarified that the advisory is a preventive measure intended to help international students navigate their academic journey smoothly. It serves as a reminder for students to prioritize their studies and avoid involvement in political or national matters that could inadvertently affect their educational experience.

AMU's advisory is part of a broader effort to uphold the university's values of academic excellence and cross-cultural harmony. International students are encouraged to abide by the guidelines to ensure a productive and conflict-free experience during their time at the institution. As AMU continues to attract students from various countries, such measures reinforce the university’s commitment to providing a supportive and culturally diverse educational environment.

The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has announced that the NEET PG 2024 Round 3 seat allotment result will be released on January 25, offering a vital update for thousands of medical aspirants eagerly awaiting their admission outcomes. This marks an important step in the counselling process for students seeking postgraduate medical seats in government and private institutions across India.

The MCC recently made amendments to the NEET PG 2024 counselling schedule, with Round 3 being a critical stage for candidates vying for seats. As per the new schedule, the Round 3 seat allotment result will be available on January 25. Following the declaration, candidates who are allotted seats during this round are required to report to the respective medical colleges between January 25 and January 30 for document verification and to complete the admission formalities. Candidates who fail to report within this period risk forfeiting their allotted seat.

Upon being allotted a seat, candidates are instructed to carefully follow the reporting instructions provided on the official MCC website. They will need to present their original documents for verification at the allotted medical college, ensuring that all required documentation is in order. Any discrepancy or missing information could lead to disqualification from the admission process.

The MCC has advised all candidates to regularly monitor its official website for further updates on the counselling process. The website will also display detailed guidelines for candidates regarding the reporting process, along with the list of necessary documents to carry. Staying informed about the timetable and instructions will help aspirants avoid unnecessary delays or complications in the admission process.

The declaration of the Round 3 seat allotment result is a significant milestone for NEET PG aspirants, as it determines the final phase of their admission into postgraduate medical courses. Candidates are advised to carefully check their results and follow the reporting guidelines to ensure they do not miss out on the opportunity to secure a seat in their desired specialization.

As the NEET PG counselling progresses, the MCC's organized schedule and instructions provide a streamlined path for aspiring doctors. Aspirants should remain vigilant, adhere to timelines, and complete the necessary steps to successfully secure admission to their chosen medical institution.