JOBS AND EDUCATION
NY schools draw the line on DEI, say no to federal pressure – The Times of India
In a striking act of resistance, New York state officials have refused to yield to the Trump administration’s latest attempt to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in public education. The state’s Department of Education, in a sharply worded letter, made clear that it would not adhere to federal demands to end DEI practices as a condition for continued funding.
Daniel Morton-Bentley, counsel and deputy commissioner of the New York State Education Department, directly challenged the federal directive, stating that the department “does not believe the federal agency has authority to make such demands.” His April 4 letter to the U.S. Department of Education sets the stage for a significant legal and political clash over the role of DEI in schools and the boundaries of federal oversight.
Rejecting the narrative of censorship
Morton-Bentley’s letter did not mince words. “We understand that the current administration seeks to censor anything it deems ‘diversity, equity & inclusion,’” he wrote. “But there are no federal or State laws prohibiting the principles of DEI.”
His message pushes back against what many see as a politically driven campaign to erase DEI frameworks from American education. While the Trump administration claims DEI efforts discriminate by favoring certain groups over others, New York officials maintain that these initiatives are essential to fulfilling the promises of equality and opportunity in public schooling.
Legal standing questioned
New York’s refusal rests heavily on its assertion that the U.S. Department of Education is overstepping its legal authority. The letter emphasizes that the state has already affirmed compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964—most recently in January—and that the federal government’s new demands are “based on a faulty legal interpretation.”
Furthermore, Morton-Bentley underscored that no formal administrative process has been undertaken that would legally justify the withdrawal of funds. Without such a process, he argued, the federal threats amount to political coercion rather than lawful oversight.
The federal demand: DEI or dollars
The controversy began with an unprecedented directive issued by the Trump administration last Thursday. The order gave K-12 schools nationwide just ten days to certify that they are not engaging in DEI practices considered discriminatory under federal civil rights laws. Compliance was tied explicitly to the continuation of federal education funding, including Title I aid—which supports schools in low-income communities and distributes billions annually.
Craig Trainor, the acting assistant secretary for civil rights, defended the demand as a matter of legal compliance. “Federal financial assistance is a privilege, not a right,” he said, as reported by the Associated Press. But critics have argued that conditioning funds on political interpretations of civil rights undermines the very foundation of public education.
A sudden shift in doctrine
The New York Education Department also drew attention to the ideological whiplash at play. Morton-Bentley referenced 2020 remarks by then-Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, who described diversity and inclusion as “cornerstones of high organizational performance.” The current stance, he noted, represents an “abrupt shift” with no justification for the reversal.
The administration’s pivot, critics say, reflects a broader political agenda rather than any substantive change in legal or educational understanding.
A broader pattern of federal leverage
This isn’t the first instance of New York clashing with the Trump administration over federal funding. The state recently refused to comply with a demand to shut down a congestion pricing plan intended to fund mass transit in Manhattan. That resistance now appears to be part of a broader strategy to reject federal overreach.
Education, in particular, is emerging as a battlefield. While Trump has promised to return control of schools to state and local governments, critics say his administration’s DEI ultimatum is doing precisely the opposite—centralising authority in Washington and threatening to financially punish states that dissent.
The stakes ahead
As the 10-day deadline for certification looms, New York’s firm stance places it on a collision course with the federal government. Should Washington move to withhold funds, it could trigger legal challenges with nationwide consequences, especially for underserved communities that rely on Title I assistance.
New York’s refusal may encourage other states to challenge the administration’s mandates. The coming weeks could determine not only the future of DEI in public schools but also the broader relationship between states and the federal government in shaping educational values.
For now, New York has drawn a line: DEI is not a deviation from civil rights law—it is, the state argues, a fulfillment of it.
JOBS AND EDUCATION
THE Asia University Rankings 2025: IISc tops nationally as Shoolini emerges top private university – The Times of India
THE Asia University Rankings 2025: The Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2025, released on April 23, present a detailed and rigorous evaluation of academic excellence across the continent. This year’s edition assesses 853 universities from 35 countries and territories, based on performance across teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and international outlook. With 18 robust performance indicators, THE’s globally trusted methodology continues to guide students, academics, policymakers, and industry leaders in benchmarking higher education quality.
While China maintains its dominance with the top two positions and five of the top ten, countries like Singapore, Japan, and Hong Kong also perform strongly—all six of Hong Kong’s universities enter the top 50, a first since 2017. The rankings also welcome four new entrants: Uzbekistan, Bahrain, Mongolia, and Syria. In this competitive landscape, India records a strong showing with 20 institutions placed among Asia’s top 250, led by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, and Shoolini University, the country’s highest-ranked private university.
Indian universities on the rise in Asia: A look at THE Asia University Rankings 2025
Indian higher education institutions have once again made notable strides in the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2025, reflecting both the enduring strength of traditional public universities and the growing momentum of private institutions. With India claiming significant positions across multiple performance indicators—research quality, industry engagement, international outlook, teaching, and research environment—the rankings shed light on the evolving academic landscape in the region.
Among the prominent institutions, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) remains the country’s academic torchbearer, securing a joint 38th place in Asia. At the same time, private players such as Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences have made substantial inroads, with Shoolini becoming the highest-ranked private university in India for the second year running. The data reflects a broader trend of diversification and excellence in Indian academia, with institutions aligning more closely with global benchmarks of research and innovation.
Indian Institute of Science leads, but others are closing the gap
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, tops the Indian chart with an overall score of 65.2, achieving the 38th rank in Asia. It demonstrates significant strength in Industry Engagement with a score of 97.3, followed by robust performances in Teaching (68.1) and Research Quality (64.1). These metrics solidify IISc’s position as a premier research institution, known for balancing theoretical knowledge with practical innovation.
In contrast, Anna University, ranked 111th, reveals a high Research Quality score of 80.0—even higher than IISc—suggesting a commendable volume of high-impact publications. However, its International Outlook (20.2) and Teaching (43.3) scores remain relatively modest, highlighting the need for more global collaboration and pedagogical development.
Performance of other notable Indian institutions
Among other high-performing institutions, the Indian Institute of Technology Indore, ranked 131st, showcases a strong Research Quality score of 70.8 and a balanced profile across teaching and internationalisation. Mahatma Gandhi University, ranked 140th, offers moderate scores across the board, with its highest performance in Teaching at 53.5.
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences and Jamia Millia Islamia, ranked 149th and 161st respectively, both exhibit strong Research Quality scores—83.4 and 75.4—but lower scores in International Outlook (72.5 and 40.4) and Teaching (40.8 and 48.7). Their research dominance suggests potential for stronger global engagement and improvements in the classroom environment.
Other institutions like the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati and KIIT University, both ranked =184, present similar overall scores (44.8) but differ in performance areas. KIIT, with a higher Industry Engagement score of 55.9, edges ahead in real-world applications, whereas IIT Guwahati performs better in Research Quality and Teaching.
Emerging universities show promising trends
A group of Indian universities within the 201–250 band, including Banaras Hindu University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, and Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, show promising trends. For instance, BITS Pilani demonstrates strong Research Quality (71.9) and solid Industry Engagement (42.0). Meanwhile, Jawaharlal Nehru University displays a well-rounded profile with noteworthy scores in Teaching (49.7) and Research Environment (27.4).
Lovely Professional University, also in the 201–250 band, stands out with a Research Quality score of 81.4 and a decent International Outlook (48.8), but its lower Teaching score (25.2) and Industry Engagement (24.0) suggest room for pedagogical and practical enhancement.
Shoolini University breaks barriers as India’s top private institution
Shoolini University has emerged as a powerful force among Indian institutions, ranking 146th in Asia and 5th overall in India. Notably, it holds the title of No.1 Private University in India for the second consecutive year. It scores an impressive 81.5 in Research Quality and 71.4 in International Outlook, placing 2nd and 4th in India, respectively, in these categories. The university also ranks 14th in India for Research Environment (233rd in Asia), 49th in India for Teaching (263rd in Asia), and 67th in India for Industry Engagement (617th in Asia).
These achievements reflect Shoolini’s strategic emphasis on research-led education, global partnerships, and its commitment to innovation. As Vice Chancellor Atul Khosla remarked, the university’s continued top ranking “is a matter of pride,” underscoring a focused effort on maintaining academic excellence and international relevance. Its consistent appearance among the Top 200 universities in Asia for three consecutive years reinforces its trajectory as a rising academic leader.
Indian universities in THE Asia University Rankings 2025
The path ahead for Indian higher education
The Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings 2025 affirm India’s deepening academic influence in the region. While public universities like IISc continue to lead, institutions such as Shoolini University exemplify how private universities are closing the gap, particularly through innovation, research intensity, and internationalisation. As Indian universities continue to recalibrate their strategies around global benchmarks, the country is poised to play a larger role in the international academic community.
This year’s rankings highlight both the progress and the challenges facing India’s higher education sector. With the right blend of policy support, institutional autonomy, and global engagement, India’s universities are well-positioned to further ascend in the years ahead.
JOBS AND EDUCATION
Delhi Metro Recruitment 2025: DMRC invites applications for security inspector posts, salary up to Rs 59,800 – The Times of India
Delhi Metro Recruitment 2025: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced a recruitment drive for the post of Security Inspector, offering a lucrative salary package and a streamlined selection process without a written examination. The official notification has been released on DMRC’s website, detailing eligibility, selection criteria, and the application procedure for interested candidates.
This recruitment initiative is especially significant for experienced personnel from the Delhi Police force, as DMRC seeks to utilise their expertise in field operations. The application process is currently underway, and eligible candidates can apply on or before May 8, 2025. Applicants are advised to carefully review the eligibility criteria and other instructions before submitting their applications.
Eligibility criteria rooted in policing experience
Candidates applying for the post must either be currently working in or retired from the Delhi Police, holding the position of Sub-Inspector or Inspector. In addition to this, applicants should have accumulated diverse experience over the past five years in roles such as Assistant Sub-Inspector, Sub-Inspector, or Inspector, specifically in field assignments like police stations or traffic departments.
It is imperative that candidates are free from any Departmental and Vigilance (D&AR) issues. Those who are still in regular service will also be considered eligible for the post, provided they choose to voluntarily retire — either through Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) or by other means — before joining DMRC.
Age limit and salary structure
The age criteria for this post specify that candidates must be at least 55 years old and not exceed 62 years of age. However, age relaxation shall be granted to candidates belonging to reserved categories as per applicable rules.
Selected candidates will be entitled to a monthly salary ranging from Rs 51,100 to Rs 59,800. The absence of a written examination is a key feature of this recruitment process, as candidates will be shortlisted and called directly for an interview based on their qualifications and experience.
Application process and important details
Applicants must submit their applications in the prescribed format, along with all required documents. The completed forms should be sent to the following address:
Executive Director (Human Resources),
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Limited,
Metro Bhawan, Fire Brigade Lane, Barakhambha Road,
New Delhi – 110001
Read the official notification here
For complete details regarding the recruitment, eligibility, and application format, candidates are encouraged to visit the official DMRC website and review the recruitment notification directly via the provided link.
JOBS AND EDUCATION
NEET UG 2025 exam city intimation slip released on neet.nta.nic.in, admit card expected by May 1: Check direct link here – The Times of India
NEET UG city intimation slip 2025 out: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the Advance City Intimation Slip for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG 2025, a crucial step for over 23 lakh medical aspirants preparing for the undergraduate medical entrance exam. The slip, available as of April 23, 2025, informs candidates of their allotted exam city, enabling them to plan travel and accommodation logistics. The NEET UG 2025 exam is scheduled for May 4, 2025, and the admit card is expected to be released by May 1, 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest updates, exam details, and more.
The NEET UG 2025 City Intimation Slip was made available on the official NTA website, neet.nta.nic.in, on April 23, 2025, earlier than the anticipated date of April 26. Candidates can download the slip by logging in with their application number and date of birth. The slip specifies the exam city but does not include the exact exam center address, which will be detailed in the admit card. This advance notification helps candidates, especially those assigned centers far from home, arrange travel plans well in advance. The exam will be conducted across 552 cities in India and 14 cities abroad, totaling 566 exam cities, with approximately 5,000 exam centers.
Admit Card Release Date
The NEET UG 2025 admit card is slated for release on or before May 1, 2025, as confirmed by the NTA. Candidates can download it from neet.nta.nic.in using their application number and date of birth or password. The admit card is a mandatory document for exam entry, containing critical details such as the candidate’s name, roll number, exam center address, reporting time, and exam day guidelines. Aspirants are advised to verify all details on the admit card and contact the NTA helpline immediately if discrepancies are found. The admit card will also be emailed to candidates’ registered IDs.
Exam Timings, Shifts, and Mode
NEET UG 2025 will be conducted on May 4, 2025, in a single shift from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM IST, with a duration of 3 hours. Candidates must report to their exam centers by 1:30 PM, as late entries will not be permitted. The exam will be held in pen-and-paper (offline) mode, featuring 180 compulsory multiple-choice questions (MCQs) across Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology). Unlike previous years, the 2025 exam reverts to the pre-Covid format, eliminating optional questions. The test will be conducted in 13 languages, including English, Hindi, and regional languages like Tamil, Telugu, and Assamese.
Direct link to download the NEET UG city intimation slip 2025
Approximate Participation
NEET UG remains India’s largest undergraduate medical entrance exam, with an estimated 23 lakh candidates expected to participate in 2025. This number is slightly lower than the 24 lakh registrations in 2024, though the NTA has not released official figures. The exam facilitates admission to over 1 lakh MBBS seats, 27,618 BDS seats, 52,720 AYUSH seats, and other medical courses across 612 medical and 315 dental colleges in India, including 1,899 AIIMS and 249 JIPMER seats.
Key Instructions for Candidates
Candidates must carry a printed admit card, a valid photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar, PAN card), and a passport-sized photograph matching the one uploaded during registration. The city intimation slip is not a substitute for the admit card and cannot be used for exam entry. Aspirants are advised to visit their exam center a day prior to familiarize themselves with the location and avoid last-minute hassles. Prohibited items include electronic devices, and candidates must adhere to the NTA’s dress code and exam day guidelines.
Next Steps
Following the exam, the NTA will release provisional answer keys in the fourth week of May 2025, with results expected by June 14, 2025. Counseling for All India Quota and state quota seats will commence in July 2025, managed by the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) and state authorities, respectively. Candidates are urged to stay updated via neet.nta.nic.in and prepare diligently for the exam, which remains a gateway to prestigious medical institutions across India.
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