Latest news with #TIL
Economic Times
7 hours ago
- General
- Economic Times
Only 54% of verified villages achieve 'ODF plus model' status despite 80% coverage: Govt review
TIL Creatives Representational AI Image. While 80 per cent of villages targeted under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) are open defecation free and have solid and liquid waste managements systems in place, only 54 per cent are officially verified, a government review found. The data was presented at the National Rural Sanitation Workshop held in New Delhi on Wednesday. The review also showed that grey water management has reached 91 per cent national coverage, with more than 20 states and Union territories crossing the 95 per cent mark. Solid waste management stands at 87 per cent, while plastic waste management has achieved 70 per cent block-level coverage though concerns about functional sustainability remain. According to official data presented, 80 per cent of targeted villages have achieved ODF Plus Model status, while only 54 per cent have been verified. ODF Plus Model village has a sustained open defecation free status, has arrangements for solid waste management liquid waste management and observes visual cleanliness i.e., minimal litter, minimal stagnant wastewater, no plastic waste dump in public places and displays ODF related messages. The workshop, jointly organised by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti and UNICEF India, brought together state mission directors, government officials, sector experts and development partners to assess the current status of rural sanitation and chart the path forward. Addressing the event, DDWS Secretary Ashok KK Meena said, "Sanitation is not just about infrastructure, it is about dignity, equity and sustainability. The next phase of SBM-G must continue to build on the collective momentum of the last decade and anchor local leadership in delivery." Two key technical publications were launched during the workshop: 'standard operating procedures for the safety and dignity of sanitation workers in rural India' and 'protocol for developing climate resilient sanitation technical designs and services'. UNICEF's chief of WASH and CCES, Karina Malczweska, stressed the importance of transitioning to climate-resilient and future-ready sanitation systems. Kamal Kishore Soan, Mission Director of SBM-G and Jal Jeevan Mission, called the workshop a platform for reflection and recalibration. "As climate risks intensify, integrating resilience into sanitation systems is no longer optional, it is essential," he said. A dedicated session led by Additional Secretary Sushil Kumar Lohani from the Ministry of Panchayati Raj highlighted the role of gram panchayats in sustaining sanitation outcomes. Over 2.5 lakh panchayats have prepared thematic development plans via the e-GramSwaraj platform and are monitoring progress using the Panchayat Advancement Index. Award-winning panchayats showcased best practices such as 100 per cent waste segregation, large-scale composting, and eco-friendly solutions.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Science
- Time of India
Vedantu's Daksh Tayalia secures Karnataka rank 1 and AIR 15 in JEE advanced 2025
Daksh Tayalia Find out how he topped his state and scored full marks in mathematics. Daksh Tayalia, a student of Vedantu's 3-Year Long Term Batch, has achieved All India Rank 15 in the JEE Advanced 2025 exam, along with securing Rank 1 in Karnataka and a perfect 120/120 in Mathematics. Daksh's exceptional performance highlights his dedication. Daksh began his journey with Vedantu in ninth grade, discovering an online learning environment that was engaging and structured to foster deep conceptual understanding. "I started with Vedantu because I enjoyed the fun and interactive way of learning," Daksh says. "The online sessions allowed me to study at my own pace. I could revisit lessons, solve problems, and strengthen concepts, which helped me improve steadily. " A key challenge during Daksh's preparation was mastering the NCERT concepts, especially in Chemistry. "Chemistry was a bit of a struggle, and I only picked it up seriously late. I had to focus on revisiting the material and identifying those areas where I was weak," Daksh shares. "But Vedantu's online model made this process easier because I could go back to lessons and really understand the concepts in depth." The personalised guidance Daksh received was a crucial part of his success. "The flexibility of online learning made a huge difference," Daksh explains. "I could pace myself, manage my time better, and revisit difficult topics. What sets Vedantu apart is its personal touch, the teachers know you well, and you're not competing with your peers, but working to be your best self." Vedantu's long term batches provided Daksh with consistent mentorship and personalised study plans, helping him focus on self-improvement. Daksh's achievement reinforces the effectiveness of Vedantu's #StudentObsessed approach, where personalised attention, expert mentorship, and high-quality content come together to deliver real results, all through online learning. "Success is not just about hard work, but about having the right guidance and support," said Vamsi Krishna , Co-founder & CEO of Vedantu. "Daksh's journey, like many others, proves that Vedantu's online model — honed over the years — continues to deliver outcomes for students year after year." Disclaimer - The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it, and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content.
Economic Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
CCI Worldwide Logistics introduces ‘Trans Africa' service with an estimated investment of 106 crore to enhance Intra-African Trade
TIL Creatives The services will be rolled out to key markets including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, and Egypt, with rapid expansion into other countries like Francophone West Africa, Central Africa, and landlocked countries such as Uganda and Zambia. Mumbai– CCI Worldwide Logistics, a leading international freight forwarding vertical of CCI Group, announced the official launch of 'Trans Africa', a technology-led freight service designed to streamline cross-border logistics across the African continent. Backed by an investment of ₹106 crore, the initiative targets a significant boost in freight volumes with a projected 5,000 TEUs annually via air and sea transport, and an estimated 15% return on investment. With this launch, CCI Worldwide further strengthens its commitment to transforming Africa's trade landscape through innovation, connectivity, and scalable freight solutions. Why Africa needs a smarter freight solution According to a report by UNCTAD, trade between African countries makes up only 16% of the continent's total exports, showing a huge opportunity for growth. With the rollout of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the region is expected to become a $3.4 trillion market. Whereas maritime trade is also projected to grow rapidly, from 58 million to 132 million tonnes by 2030. Therefore to support this growth, AfCFTA has launched an initiative to promote new digital solutions that can make cross-border trade faster, easier, and more efficient. However, it still remains untapped due to complex customs procedures, fragmented infrastructure, inflated costs, and limited shipment visibility. The lack of digital infrastructure has long impeded supply chain optimization and discouraged foreign investment. Building next era of African trade CCI Worldwide Logistics' 'Trans Africa' is CCI's vision of a more streamlined African trade landscape. Designed to significantly enhance export capabilities, it focuses on key commodities such as Pulses, Auto Spare Parts, Pharmaceuticals, and Automobiles. This service offers end-to-end logistics solutions, including door delivery across South, West, and East Africa, seamlessly connecting shippers, transporters, and customs agents across borders. This will also provide real-time visibility, streamlined operations, and diligent regulatory compliance from port to the final mile. Key features of Trans Africa: End-to-End Freight Management across ocean, air, road, and rail modes, with real-time tracking from pickup to delivery. AI-Powered Smart Routing & Carrier Matching to recommend optimal routes and pair clients with vetted regional transporters via a robust Customs Clearance with localized modules for over 20 African nations and API integrations with national customs systems (where available), minimizing paperwork and Visibility & Notifications via intuitive dashboards, keeping stakeholders informed at every Documentation & Compliance Tools to simplify trade operations and maintain transparency across Worldwide Logistics' Trans Africa launch phase will cover strategic markets including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, and Egypt, with planned expansions into Francophone West Africa, Central Africa, and landlocked nations such as Uganda and Zambia. This phased approach supports CCI's long-term vision of building a resilient, digitally connected pan-African logistics sets Trans Africa apart is its broad pan-African reach combined with a nuanced understanding of local trade dynamics. The platform is supported by strategic partnerships at critical infrastructure hubs including ports, border posts, and regional trade blocs, ensuring smooth cross-border movement. Its mobile-first design makes the platform accessible even in low-bandwidth regions, extending its utility to a wider audience. With a commitment to transparent pricing, real-time performance metrics, and data-driven accountability, Trans Africa is built to foster long-term trust and efficiency for clients operating across diverse African Singh, Vice President - P&L, CCI Worldwide Logistics said, in a statement, "The launch of Trans Africa represents a significant milestone in our mission to empower trade across Africa. We're not just offering a service; we're providing a catalyst for growth, enabling seamless trade that will contribute to the continent's economic prosperity and connecting global economies.' He further added, 'CCI is poised to become the preferred logistics partner through 'Trans Africa' for a diverse range of clients, including importers, exporters, existing freight forwarders and 3PLs, e-commerce companies, and NGOs operating supply chain networks across the continent. By delivering unparalleled efficiency and transparency, CCI aims to bring a new dawn in intra-African and global trade."The platform's flexible revenue model encompasses per-shipment fees (based on mode and distance) and a suite of value-added services such as cargo insurance, warehousing solutions, and trade finance referrals.
Economic Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
India beats global average in employees using AI: report
TIL Creatives India leads in artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, with 92% of employees regularly using generative AI (GenAI) tools in daily work, according to a Boston Consulting Group (BCG) report released Thursday. BCG based the report on responses from 10,600 workers across 11 countries that show AI usage has turned mainstream. The report said AI adoption has led people to fear job loss in countries with the highest AI usage. The third edition of this annual survey also found that AI now forms part of employees' daily work, with 72% of the respondents using it regularly. The report further noted that the Global South leads in AI adoption, with India and the Middle East showing the highest levels of regular use. The Middle East ranked second in adoption with 87%. However, these high-use countries also report the greatest fear about the impact of automation, far higher than the 41% of all global respondents. "This rapid adoption brings new challenges. Nearly half (48%) of Indian employees fear job displacement over the next decade, highlighting a growing sense of uncertainty. Furthermore, only about one-third of the workforce feels adequately trained to fully leverage AI's potential. As we move from early adoption to delivering real business impact, Indian enterprises must invest in structured training, in-person coaching, and leadership enablement to scale value both responsibly and inclusively," said Nipun Kalra, managing director at cannot expect transformation by simply rolling out GenAI tools, said Sylvain Duranton, global leader of BCG X. BCG's research demonstrates that businesses achieve real returns when they invest in upskilling their workforce, redesign work processes, and align leadership around AI strategy, he added. Elevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea. Punit Goenka reloads Zee with Bullet and OTT focus. Can he beat mighty rivals? 3 critical hurdles in India's quest for rare earth independence HDB Financial may be cheaper than Bajaj Fin, but what about returns? INR1,300 crore loans for INR100? Stamp duty notice to ArcelorMittal, banks. Stock Radar: Titan Company breaks out from 3-month consolidation; check target & stop loss for long positions For risk-takers: More than bullish, be selective; 5 mid-cap stocks from different sectors with an upside potential of up to 38% Multibagger or IBC - Part 12: If transition is successful then there is no limit. But there is a big 'IF' These mid-cap stocks with 'Strong Buy' & 'Buy' recos can rally over 25%, according to analysts
Economic Times
25-06-2025
- Science
- Economic Times
Australia set to make history with first-ever homegrown rocket launch after explosive delays
TIL Creatives After nose-cone failures, high-altitude winds, and months of delays, Australia's first entirely homegrown rocket is finally ready to blast off—carrying national pride, a jar of Vegemite, and the hopes of a rising space power The first Australian-made, Australian-launched rocket is set for takeoff in just a week. Gilmour Space Technologies, a privately-owned aerospace company based on Australia's Gold Coast, has confirmed it is targeting July 1–3 for the launch of the first entirely Australian-made and launched orbital rocket. The 25-metre tall, three-stage rocket called Eris will lift off from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport, about 150 kilometres southeast of Townsville. 'We have done a full test again of the vehicle just to be safe,' said CEO Adam Gilmour, who has personally led the project through years of challenges. 'I'm kind of almost sick of this rocket,' he admitted to 7News, reflecting the fatigue and emotional strain after repeated delays. This will be Gilmour's second attempt to reach orbit. The first launch was aborted in May after the rocket's nose cone, a part that protects the payload during flight, accidentally opened just 30 minutes before takeoff. Before that, other technical glitches had halted progress. Upper-level winds are the biggest environmental challenge now facing the 25-metre, three-stage Eris the team didn't give up. Engineers worked around the clock, retesting the rocket systems and addressing vulnerabilities. Now, all eyes are on the weather, particularly upper-level winds, which recently delayed a SpaceX rocket carrying a Gilmour-designed satellite.'That launch was delayed three days because of upper-level winds, and we're seeing the same high winds here as well,' Gilmour major international launches, this one isn't carrying a commercial payload. Instead, a small camera and a jar of Vegemite, Australia's iconic yeast spread, will ride into space as a lighthearted symbol of national this launch, Gilmour Space aims to become a reliable, sovereign launch provider, eventually sending satellites for environmental monitoring, communications, and even defense purposes. Founded in 2013 by Adam and his brother James Gilmour, the company has grown into one of the most promising players in the global space industry. The team behind Eris comprises more than 200 employees, supported by 300 local suppliers, investors, and the Australian Space Agency, which provided final launch approval in May. With this mission, Australia could join a small elite club of countries capable of launching rockets to orbit from their soil.
