Latest news with #NCERT-based
Time of India
4 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Most UP Board textbooks see price hike up to 8 times, few get cheaper
Prayagraj: NCERT-based textbooks for the UP Board have become significantly pricier this academic year, with some books increasing in price up to eight times. This marks the first major price hike since the new books were introduced in 2018. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now However, some books have become affordable. The UP Board has revised prices for several NCERT-based textbooks, bringing notable changes after seven years. The price hike for UP Board textbooks, aligned with NCERT commissions, aims to encourage publishers and retailers to produce and sell the books. Despite the increase, UP Board textbooks remain cheaper than NCERT books. This move is expected to benefit over 1 crore students in more than 28,000 UP Board-affiliated schools by ensuring better availability of textbooks. Among the textbooks for Class 9-12 that have become more expensive are English, Chemistry, and Sociology. Despite these increases, UP Board books are still more affordable than NCERT textbooks in many subjects. For instance, books in subjects like Mathematics and Physics are being offered by the UP Board at prices significantly lower than their NCERT counterparts, ensuring continued accessibility for students. Interestingly, the prices of some books have also been reduced. Class 12 Physics Part-1 has become cheaper this year. In Class 11, the psychology book 'Introduction to Psychology' has been made more affordable. The cost of two Physics textbooks in Class 11 has also been brought down. Likewise, the Geography book 'Fundamentals of Physical Geography' for Class 11 is now available at a lower rate, making these subjects easier to access for students from various backgrounds. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The prices of several textbooks have seen significant hikes. The Class 9 English workbook, previously priced at Rs 9, will now cost Rs 84. Class 11 Chemistry Part-1 will be available for Rs 133, up from Rs 72. Meanwhile, Class 12 Sociology textbooks, which earlier cost Rs 19, will now be priced at Rs 167. Additionally, Class 12 English textbooks, formerly priced at Rs 18, will now cost Rs 79. Some textbooks have seen price reductions. Class 12 Physics Part-1 is now available for Rs 43, down from Rs 64. Class 11's 'Introduction to Psychology' textbook is now priced at Rs 10, reduced from Rs 28. Additionally, two Class 11 Physics books have become cheaper by Rs 32. Class 11's geography book 'Fundamentals of Physical Geography' is now available for Rs 10, down from Rs 23. The price revision and increased availability of UP Board books will provide relief to students, who can now access affordable textbooks. Previously, students had to rely on expensive private publisher books. With UP Board books being up to ten times cheaper, students can save money and access authorized study materials. NCERT books are also expected to hit the market soon.
Hans India
28-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Essential insights for medical aspirants preparing for competitive exams
Cracking a competitive medical entrance exam is no small feat. With lakhs of aspirants vying for limited seats across India and the globe, students need a well-rounded strategy that goes beyond books and coaching. Whether you're preparing for NEET in India, MCAT in the US, or other international exams, understanding the nuances of each system is key to success. Here's a practical guide to help students prepare effectively and holistically. Understand the exam format and syllabus One of the first steps in your preparation journey is understanding the specific format and syllabus of the exam you're targeting. • NEET (India) tests your grasp of NCERT-based content in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, with an emphasis on accuracy and speed. It is a pen-and-paper test with a highly competitive ranking system. • MCAT (US), on the other hand, is a computer-based standardized test that not only tests content in science subjects but also critical analysis and reasoning skills. It places greater emphasis on comprehension, application, and integrated understanding. • BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test): Used by medical schools in the UK. BMAT assesses scientific knowledge, problem-solving ability, critical thinking, and includes a written essay. It emphasizes logical reasoning and clear written communication, making it quite different from content-heavy exams like NEET. NEET primarily tests subject-matter knowledge, while BMAT assesses aptitude, critical thinking, and written expression. • GAMSAT (Graduate Medical School Admissions Test): Accepted in Australia, the UK, and Ireland for graduate-entry medicine, GAMSAT tests reasoning in humanities, written communication, and science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics). It focuses more on critical thinking and interpretation skills than rote learning, and is designed for students with strong analytical and comprehension abilities. Tailoring your preparation to the exam's format and question types is essential. Consider enrolling in targeted courses or using region-specific materials. Build a strong foundation in core subjects Mastering Biology, Chemistry, and Physics is non-negotiable. However, rote learning is no longer sufficient. Competitive exams today demand: • Deep conceptual clarity: Understand the 'why' behind every concept. • Application of knowledge: Practice solving real-world problems using your theoretical understanding. • Consistent practice: Regular practice through topic-wise questions and chapter-end problems is critical. Students often overlook Physics or struggle with Organic Chemistry. Make time to strengthen your weaker areas early in your preparation cycle. Time management, mock tests & revision A student's biggest asset during preparation is time. Learning to manage it effectively can be a game-changer: • Create a study plan with daily, weekly, and monthly goals. Allocate more time to difficult subjects. • Take mock tests regularly. They simulate the real exam environment and help improve speed, accuracy, and stamina. • Revision is crucial. Set aside at least two months before the exam for full-length revisions. Use tools like flashcards, short notes, and concept maps. Mock tests and practising old papers also help in identifying weak areas, guiding your efforts in a more focused manner. Take care of your mental health Competitive exam prep can take a toll on your well-being. Stay connected with loved ones, take regular breaks, and include light exercise or mindfulness in your routine. If stress feels overwhelming, seek help, many student-friendly mental health resources are available. A calm mind is as vital as a strong study plan. Evaluate parallel options – India and abroad Many students prepare for NEET while also considering international options like studying medicine in the US, UK, or Caribbean. • Keep your options open: If you don't get a top NEET rank, all is not lost. Countries like the US (via MCAT), or medical schools in the Caribbean, offer globally recognized pathways. • Research thoroughly: Understand the admission process, timelines, cost, and post-graduation pathways like licensing exams (e.g., USMLE in the US). • Prepare for dual goals if possible. For example, if you're also aiming for the US, consider preparing for MCAT-style questions or taking English proficiency tests early on. Success in medical entrance exams is not just about intelligence; it's about planning, discipline, and resilience. Prepare smart, take care of your mental health, and stay informed about all possible avenues, whether in India or abroad. Your dream of becoming a doctor is achievable, provided you're strategic and determined in your efforts. (The author is Country Head India & South East Asia Manipal's American University of Antigua College of Medicine)
Hindustan Times
26-05-2025
- Science
- Hindustan Times
Under Operation Kayakalp, 1.3L govt schools revamped, 96% now meet standards: UP minister
Uttar Pradesh basic education minister (independent Charge) Sandeep Singh, on Monday said the state's school education infrastructure has undergone a large-scale transformation under Operation Kayakalp, with 1,32,852 council schools redesigned so far at a cost of ₹11,000 crore. In 2017, only 36% of schools met the required standards. This figure has now crossed 96%, he said. As part of improving access to girls' education, 746 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) have been upgraded to intermediate level. Among these, 683 schools now have smart classrooms, ICT labs, additional rooms, and hostels, Singh said. 'A new initiative called the 'Curiosity Program' in collaboration with IIT Gandhinagar has also been introduced to promote innovative learning.' The minister said that NCERT-based curriculum has been implemented through SCERT, and timely textbook delivery has been ensured. Under the 'Learning by Doing' initiative, students in 2,274 schools are being taught practical skills through four trades using 205 types of tools. Under the 'Nipun Bharat Mission', the government has launched two apps, 'Nipun Lakshya' for Classes 1–2 and 'Nipun Plus' for Classes 3–12. Over 1 crore children have received ₹1,200 each through direct benefit transfer (DBT). Singh said a budget of ₹447.80 crore has been allocated under the Chief Minister Model Composite School Scheme, and the foundation stone for 66 Chief Minister Abhyudaya Vidyalayas has been laid. The minister said Uttar Pradesh has emerged among the leading states in school education and termed the changes a major step towards building an empowered and educated society.
News18
21-05-2025
- Science
- News18
NEET UG 2025 Expected Cut-Off: Experts Predict Score Range For AIQ And AIIMS Delhi
Last Updated: NEET UG 2024 cut-offs rose to 720-162 (General) and 161-127 (SC/ST/OBC). Check the expected NEET UG 2025 cut-off marks for admission to government medical colleges. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) exam on May 4, 2025. Medical aspirants are eagerly waiting for the results and the cut-off marks. The NTA will soon release the provisional answer keys, followed by the final answer key and the NEET UG result in June. For NEET UG 2025, the NTA will calculate the cut-off percentile based on the highest scores in the all-India common merit list. Based on the paper's difficulty level, reduced exam duration, and comparison with previous years, experts foresee a slight shift in cut-off trends. According to Rohit Gupta, Chief Academic Officer at PhysicsWallah (PW), the general category cut-off is expected to fall between 540 and 560 marks. 'This year's paper was notably more concept-heavy," he said. 'While Biology remained largely NCERT-based and scoring, Chemistry required deeper application, and Physics posed a significant challenge with time-intensive numerical questions." Gupta also highlighted that the 20-minute reduction in exam duration added time pressure, possibly impacting student performance. However, a drop of nearly one lakh aspirants this year and the expansion of medical colleges and MBBS seats may ease competition slightly, possibly improving overall admission prospects. Nabin Karki, National Academic Director (Medical) at Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), added that the expected cut-off for All India Quota (AIQ) admissions lies between 530 and 560, aligning with PhysicsWallah's estimate. For AIIMS Delhi, the cut-off is projected to be higher — between 660 and 670 marks. As for general category qualifying marks, the range is expected to be between 130 and 150.
Time of India
13-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
CBSE achievers attribute success to self-study, consistency in preps
Ranchi: After the announcement of CBSE Class X and XII results on Tuesday, toppers from across the state credited their success to a strong focus on NCERT textbooks and disciplined self-study. Most toppers shared that it was the clarity and depth of NCERT textbooks that formed the backbone of their preparations. Solving sample papers and revising NCERT-based questions helped them build confidence and manage time during the exams, they Singh, a student of DPS who scored 99.6% in Class XII arts, said, "I focused entirely on NCERT books and made sure to revise them multiple times. Self-study helped me understand my weak areas and improve gradually."Many of the students credited their achievement not to coaching institutes, but to the power of self-study. Aranya Bharadwaj, a Class X student of Kairali School, who scored 99%, said, "Self-study was the most important help for me. It allowed me to identify my strengths and work on my weaknesses at my own pace. It gave me more control over my preparations and reduced dependence on coaching. I didn't have any fixed career planning, but science has a lot of scope. So, I will choose the science stream."Most high scorers said while external guidance is helpful, it was the consistency in studying and clarity of basic concepts that made the real Gupta, a Class XII commerce student from Kairali School who scored 98.6%, said, "I relied on self-study and maintained a consistent routine without taking any coaching classes. Pursuing my hobbies also played a key role in keeping me motivated throughout my preparations."The toppers also mentioned that mental well-being was equally important. They listened to music, followed their hobbies and took regular breaks to avoid burnout during the preparation Raj, who scored 99% in Class X from Jawahar Vidya Mandir, Shyamali, said, "I studied for a few hours every day but ensured consistency in my routine. Additionally, I took regular series tests and pursued my hobbies, which helped me prepare for the board exams without feeling pressured."
