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A disturbing incident at Noakhali Science and Technology University in Bangladesh has ignited widespread anger, both locally and internationally, after a group of students were caught on video stepping on the Indian flag painted at the university's entrance. The act, viewed as a deliberate show of disrespect, has gone viral on social media, sparking fierce criticism and demands for accountability.

Reports indicate that the Indian flag was painted as part of a university program. However, some students were seen casually walking over it, a scene that has left many outraged. The video, which quickly circulated online, has drawn harsh reactions from people condemning the disregard shown toward a national symbol. Many have called the act insensitive and provocative, urging authorities to take immediate action.

University officials have responded by initiating an investigation into the incident. They have pledged to identify the individuals involved and hold them accountable. In a statement, the administration stressed the importance of respecting all national symbols and promised to prevent such actions in the future.

The incident has also triggered discussions about the underlying tensions between the two neighboring countries. While some view it as a reflection of rising anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh, others see it as an isolated act of immaturity. Regardless, the diplomatic implications are concerning, with calls for the Bangladeshi government to address the issue seriously and ensure such incidents do not recur.

Social media platforms have been flooded with posts expressing disappointment and anger. Users across both countries have called for educational initiatives to instill a deeper respect for national symbols. Some have even suggested this incident highlights the need for better cultural understanding between the nations.

This act of defiance is more than just a breach of decorum; it’s a reminder of the critical need for fostering mutual respect between communities. As investigations proceed, there’s a growing consensus that the offenders must face appropriate consequences to underline the importance of preserving the dignity of all national emblems.

The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have issued detailed exam day guidelines for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2024. The test, a gateway to premier management institutions in India, will take place at designated centers nationwide.

Essential Requirements for Candidates

Candidates must bring their admit cards and valid photo identification to the exam center. Entry without these documents will not be permitted. Admit cards can be downloaded from the official CAT website, as they will not be sent via post or email. It is recommended that candidates arrive at the center at least one hour prior to the scheduled exam time to ensure a smooth check-in process.

Exam Structure and Regulations

The CAT 2024 exam will last two hours and will be divided into three sections, including multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs. Candidates are advised to familiarize themselves with the pattern and prepare accordingly.

Strict regulations will be enforced to maintain exam integrity. The use of electronic devices such as mobile phones, calculators, and smartwatches is strictly prohibited inside the exam hall. Additionally, candidates are not allowed to bring food or beverages, ensuring a distraction-free environment.

Anti-Cheating Measures

The IIMs have reiterated a zero-tolerance policy towards unfair practices. Any candidate found engaging in misconduct, such as cheating or impersonation, will face immediate disqualification from the exam. This measure aims to uphold the credibility and transparency of the selection process.

Key Dates and Information

Admit Card Availability: Downloadable from the official CAT website

Exam Duration: 2 hours

Pattern: MCQs and non-MCQs

Support for Candidates

For any concerns or queries, candidates are encouraged to reach out to the CAT helpdesk through the official website or helpline number.

The CAT 2024 is one of the most competitive exams for aspiring management students. Adhering to the guidelines and preparing diligently will help candidates navigate the process seamlessly. With these measures in place, the IIMs aim to ensure a fair and efficient examination experience for all.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced that students will soon have the flexibility to shorten or extend their degree duration. This revolutionary change, aimed at providing more autonomy to students, is set to transform the higher education landscape in India.

According to UGC Chairman, M Jagadesh Kumar, students will have the option to complete their undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a duration of their choice. This means that students can opt for a shorter duration, such as three years for an undergraduate degree, or extend it to four or five years, depending on their academic goals and needs.

This reform is a significant departure from the traditional rigid degree structures and is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the way students learn and engage with higher education. By giving students the flexibility to pace their learning, the UGC aims to promote more personalized and effective learning experiences.

The UGC is working on the modalities and will soon release guidelines for universities to implement this change. The reform is expected to be rolled out by the next academic session and will apply to both online and distance learning programs.

This move is seen as a significant step forward in the government's efforts to reform the higher education sector. By putting students at the center of the learning process, the UGC is empowering them to take ownership of their academic journey.

The reform is also expected to have a positive impact on dropout rates, as students will now have the flexibility to pace their learning according to their needs. Moreover, this change will enable students to pursue other interests and passions, leading to a more holistic and well-rounded educational experience.

Overall, the UGC's decision to introduce flexibility in degree duration is a welcome move that has the potential to transform India's higher education landscape. By putting students first, the UGC is paving the way for a more inclusive, flexible, and student-centric education system.

The US Supreme Court has agreed to hear a pivotal case on transgender care, addressing Arkansas’s controversial Act 626, which prohibits healthcare providers from offering gender-affirming care to minors. This case, set against the backdrop of a larger national debate on LGBTQ+ rights, could have far-reaching implications for transgender youth and healthcare providers nationwide.

In 2021, Arkansas became the first state to enact a law banning gender-affirming care for transgender minors. Act 626 bars healthcare providers from offering services like hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgery to individuals under 18. The law sparked intense debate, with supporters arguing it protects minors from making irreversible decisions and opponents claiming it infringes on their rights.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other advocacy groups challenged Act 626, arguing that it violates constitutional protections under the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment and the Due Process Clause of the 5th Amendment. A federal district court initially blocked the law, but the 8th US Circuit Court of Appeals reversed that decision, allowing the law to take effect. The ACLU and its partners have since appealed to the Supreme Court, seeking a definitive ruling on the issue.

What’s at Stake?

The Supreme Court’s decision will have significant implications:

For Transgender Youth: If the court upholds Act 626, access to gender-affirming care for transgender minors could be restricted not only in Arkansas but across other states that might follow suit. Conversely, a ruling against the law could safeguard the rights of transgender youth to access necessary medical care.

For Healthcare Providers: The outcome will impact the medical community’s ability to provide gender-affirming care, setting a legal standard for what is permissible nationwide.

For Broader LGBTQ+ Rights: This case is part of a larger trend of legislation targeting transgender individuals, including bans on sports participation and bathroom access. The Supreme Court’s ruling will signal how the judiciary interprets LGBTQ+ rights amidst this broader cultural debate.

As the highest court in the land, the Supreme Court’s ruling will shape the legal landscape for transgender rights and healthcare policy. It will not only affect the lives of transgender minors and their families but also send a powerful message about equality, access to care, and the dignity of marginalized communities. As per Reuters reports, the nation now awaits a decision that will undoubtedly influence the ongoing discourse on LGBTQ+ rights and set a precedent for years to come.

Cyclone Fengal, a severe cyclonic storm, is rapidly approaching the coast and is expected to make landfall within the next 48 hours, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to several coastal districts. As the storm intensifies, it is crucial for residents in affected areas to stay informed and prepared. There are several reliable ways to track Cyclone Fengal in real-time to ensure safety during its approach.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) website offers continuous updates on the storm’s location, wind speed, rainfall intensity, and projected trajectory. This official platform is a key resource for real-time information and official warnings. Additionally, the IMD mobile app can be downloaded to receive push notifications, allowing users to stay updated on the cyclone’s movement and any emergency alerts. For those seeking more detailed forecasts and storm updates, the National Weather Service (NWS) website provides comprehensive information on the cyclone’s impact and weather warnings. Google Maps is also a helpful tool for real-time tracking, offering precise details on the storm’s location and affected areas. Furthermore, social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook, managed by the IMD, NWS, and local authorities, provide frequent updates and urgent alerts regarding the cyclone’s progress.

As of the latest reports, Cyclone Fengal is located approximately 500 kilometers east-southeast of the coastal town of Paradip. The storm is expected to make landfall in the coming hours, with significant impact anticipated for several coastal districts. The IMD has issued a red alert for districts including Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri, urging residents to prepare for extreme weather conditions. Given the storm’s intensity and speed, these areas are expected to experience heavy rainfall and gusty winds, leading to potential flooding and property damage.

To stay safe, residents are advised to follow several safety precautions. It is crucial to stay indoors and avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. People should ensure that their phones are fully charged to receive emergency updates and maintain communication. In case of evacuation orders, it is essential to follow them promptly. Additionally, having a battery-powered radio and flashlight ready can help during power outages. Finally, avoiding flooded areas is critical, as floodwaters can be dangerous and unpredictable.

By staying informed through these resources and following safety guidelines, individuals can better navigate the challenges posed by Cyclone Fengal and ensure their safety in the storm’s path.

Google Maps Timeline, a feature that allows users to track their location history, has become an essential tool for many, helping people view past locations and routes taken. However, some users have reported their location history being deleted, leaving them unable to access this data.

Why Was Google Maps Timeline Location History Deleted?

The deletion of location history data is due to Google’s data retention policies, which involve storing location data for a specific period before it is automatically deleted. While this might be inconvenient, users have the option to backup and restore their location history to avoid data loss.

How to Backup Google Maps Timeline Location History

To protect your location history from being deleted, it's important to back it up. Here’s how you can do it:

• Open Google Maps on your device.
• Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) and select Your Timeline.
• Tap the three vertical dots in the top-right corner and select Settings.
• Scroll down to Delete all location history and tap it.
• Select Download a copy of your data to backup your location history.

How to Restore Google Maps Timeline Location History

If your location history has been deleted and you’ve previously backed it up, follow these steps to restore it:

• Open Google Maps on your device.
• Tap the menu icon and select Your Timeline.
• Tap the three vertical dots and go to Settings.
• Scroll down to find Restore location history.
• Select the backup file you downloaded and follow the prompts to restore your data.

Tips to Prevent Google Maps Timeline Location History Deletion

• To ensure your location history isn’t deleted in the future, follow these preventative measures:
• Regularly back up your location data to avoid losing it.
• Set up automatic backups so your data is consistently saved.
• Sync your Google account across all devices to keep your location history updated.

By following these simple steps, you can safeguard your Google Maps Timeline data, restore it when needed, and prevent future deletions.