Author name: Harshit Singh

Instead of using relative percentile rankings, the proposal submitted to the National Medical Commission (NMC) proposes that admissions to medical and dental schools be determined by the percentage of marks earned in NEET-UG. Vadodara: A suggestion to switch from a percentile-based eligibility system to a percentage-based approach in order to improve the caliber of applicants for medical education may result in a significant revamp of NEET-UG admissions. Instead of using relative percentile rankings, the proposal submitted to the National Medical Commission (NMC) proposes that admissions to medical and dental schools be determined by the percentage of marks earned in NEET-UG. According to Dr. Aruna Vanikar, a former president of NMC’s Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB), the modification is meant to guarantee candidates’ minimal level of academic proficiency.Currently, candidates are eligible based on relative performance, with eligibility determined by percentile. If overall scores are low, this frequently enables even those with poor marks to qualify,” Vanikar told TOI. Currently, in order to be eligible for NEET-UG based on percentile results, students must receive at least 50% in Class 12. Approximately 10 lakh of the more than 20 lakh candidates who appear each year are qualified. The exam’s scope keeps expanding. On May 3, the National Testing Agency (NTA) will administer NEET-UG 2026. It is anticipated that over 26 lakh people would register, making it the largest edition to date. Concerns over the size of the eligible pool and its effect on academic standards have been raised by this expansion. Vanikar explained the change by stating that a defined cutoff based on real marks would be introduced in a percentage-based system. “We proposed moving to percentage… there is a possibility that it may be considered,” she stated. “The percentage may decrease the quantity of qualified applicants, but the caliber increases. A percentage-based cutoff would mean eligibility varies dependent on performance, in contrast to the percentile approach, where a fixed fraction qualifies annually. According to sources, the idea is seen as an attempt to guarantee that only applicants who satisfy a minimum standard are admitted. If put into effect, the change may drastically reduce the pool of qualified applicants, escalating the fight for the few available slots. Additionally, regardless of the exam, it would encourage pupils to concentrate on obtaining greater absolute results.

The combination of GTB Hospital, DSCI, and RGSSH on the AIIMS model, according to Delhi CM, will increase medical education, research, and healthcare capability. On Sunday, March 22, 2026, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that a significant increase in MBBS and postgraduate seats is anticipated as a result of the proposed merger of Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi State Cancer Institute, and Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital to establish an independent institution based on the All India Institute of Medical Sciences model. This will allow more doctors to receive specialized training and improve the quality of healthcare. The strategy focuses on increasing medical education and encouraging research in addition to enhancing healthcare delivery. According to Ms. Gupta, “the integration plan will help position Delhi as a leading national center for medical education, research, and advanced healthcare services.” In addition to stating that work are underway to transform the Institute of Human Behavior and Allied Sciences into a second National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, the Chief Minister this week suggested the merger in order to better utilize resources. Following integration, faculty members—including assistant professors, associate professors, and professors—will be combined, automatically boosting the number of postgraduate places, according to a statement from Ms. Gupta. Strong potential for future MBBS seat expansion will also be created by an increase in bed strength, patient load, and faculty numbers. In order to provide a better learning environment for students, the government intends to build lecture halls, contemporary labs, dorms, and other academic facilities, according to Ms. Gupta. The government wants to maximize the use of faculty, infrastructure, and cutting-edge medical equipment by combining institutions, she continued, giving students greater training and more chances for research. According to Ms. Gupta, “the government’s goal is to strengthen healthcare systems in the capital while taking medical education to new heights, ensuring Delhi emerges as a frontrunner in both treatment and medical research.”

Financial Times Online MBA Ranking 2026: Financial Times has released the list of the world’s top online MBA institutions. IE Business School has secured the No. 1 spot for the fourth consecutive year. Here’s a look at which colleges delivered the highest salaries and career growth. In today’s digital era, an online MBA has emerged as a powerful tool for career advancement. The latest 2026 rankings by Financial Times highlight how flexible learning is now becoming a global standard. Based in Madrid, Spain, IE Business School has once again maintained its dominance, topping the list for the fourth year in a row. One of its biggest highlights is a strong post-MBA outcome, with graduates seeing an average salary increase of around 42% after completing the programme. Top 5 institutions in the ranking: For those focused on affordability and returns, the University of Porto (ranked 6th) stands out globally for offering the best value for money.

Who Should Not Prepare for NEET-UG: Read This Carefully (Parents Too) Becoming a doctor is respected and rewarding, no doubt. But let’s be real—NEET-UG is one of the toughest and longest academic journeys out there. It’s not for everyone. Before jumping in, students need to honestly assess whether they’re built for it. Here’s who should seriously think twice: 1. No interest in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) If these subjects feel like a burden, you’re already at a disadvantage. NEET isn’t about memorizing—it’s about deep understanding and consistency. Without genuine interest, you won’t last. 2. Preparing due to pressure (parents/society) If becoming a doctor isn’t your own decision, you’ll burn out. This journey demands internal motivation. External pressure won’t carry you through 2–5 years of grind. 3. Lack of patience and consistency This isn’t a quick win exam. It takes 1–2 years (often more) of daily, disciplined study. If you give up easily or expect fast results, this path will frustrate you. 4. Easily distracted students If you can’t stay focused for long hours and keep getting pulled into your phone or social media, NEET prep will be a struggle. Focus is non-negotiable here. 5. Unrealistic view of the medical field Being a doctor isn’t just status—it’s years of MBBS, internships, specialization, pressure, and responsibility. If you’re only attracted to the “title,” you’re not seeing the full picture. 6. Can’t handle failure or pressure Many students don’t clear NEET in the first attempt. If failure hits you hard and you struggle to bounce back, this exam can take a serious toll on your mental health. 7. No backup plan Putting everything on one exam is risky. If NEET doesn’t work out, what’s next? A backup plan isn’t optional—it’s smart strategy.

Some students who joined medical college with the dream of becoming doctors are now caught in administrative hurdles. They are stuck between two universities. Investigations reveal that these students, who couldn’t complete their medical studies in 14 years, are now seeking another chance to take their exams. Around 15 students have been going back and forth between Barkatullah University (BU) and the Medical University for the past year and a half. All were enrolled in BU-affiliated medical colleges, but BU refused to conduct their exams after 2024. Meanwhile, the Medical University claimed that responsibility for these students’ exams lies with their previous university. The National Medical Commission has already clarified in its notification that MBBS courses must be completed within nine years from the date of admission. One such student, Dileep Tripathi from Chitrakoot, enrolled in MBBS in 2012 but still hasn’t been able to complete his degree after 14 years. His course remains incomplete because he fell short by just one mark in a subject. Dileep explained that he had to take a break from studies in 2013 due to personal reasons, resumed in 2015–16, and continued trying consistently. By 2024, he had appeared for the exams, but missing just one mark in one subject left his degree incomplete. Dileep says that being a Hindi-medium student made medical studies especially challenging for him. He isn’t alone—around 15 students have still not completed their MBBS even after 15 years. The group also includes one BAMS student facing a similar issue. Stuck between two universities The problem for these students worsened after the Medical University was established in 2014. Before that, they were enrolled in BU-affiliated medical colleges. BU conducted exams until 2024 but now says that the responsibility has shifted to the Medical University. Meanwhile, the Medical University insists that students admitted before 2014 fall under BU’s responsibility. As a result, these students have been going back and forth between the two universities for the past year and a half. Complaint filed with Lokpal The students have now filed a complaint with BU’s Lokpal office, demanding that their exams be conducted promptly. The National Medical Commission clarified in its 2023 notification that MBBS courses must be completed within nine years of admission. Earlier, BU had 56 such long-pending MBBS students—8 in the second year, 20 in the third year, and 28 in the fourth year. By 2024, most had completed their courses, but around 15 students still have their future hanging in uncertainty.

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has agreed to revise its recent notice on mandatory compensation classes for foreign medical graduates (FMGs) after protests in New Delhi. Student groups say the changes came following discussions with the commission to address concerns raised by FMGs. Over a hundred FMG doctors, interns, and faculty had gathered outside the NMC office to protest a notice issued on March 6, 2026, by the Under-Graduate Medical Education Board. Protesters argued that the directive added unnecessary hurdles for students who had already completed their courses and were seeking registration or training in India, and that such rules shouldn’t be applied retroactively. NMC officials assured the FMGs that the notice would be reviewed and updated, taking their difficulties into account. Representatives from the All FMGs Association (AFA) and the All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA), including Dr Shubham Singh and Dr Kanishka Kalra, met with senior NMC officials to discuss the issues. Dr Samar Kumar of AIMSA-FMSW said the commission requested an official email detailing the challenges FMGs face. “A revised notice will be issued in the coming days to reflect these concerns,” he said. Dr Raghav Langer, NMC’s general secretary, added, “Tomorrow, a fresh notice will clarify the language of the previous one. This is meant to address confusion and ensure the guidelines are properly understood.”

Accenture, through its learning platform Udacity, has introduced a fully accredited MBA focused on the AI economy—priced at under ₹2 lakh, making it far more affordable than traditional MBA programmes. With private MBAs in India typically costing between ₹4 lakh and ₹25 lakh, this programme positions itself as a cost-effective, high-ROI option, especially for young professionals aiming to shift into tech-driven roles. The launch comes at a time when artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the job market and skill demands. According to Kishore Durg, the programme is designed to address the growing need for professionals who can connect technology with business strategy. He highlighted that by making quality education more accessible, the initiative aims to help individuals and organisations tap into the full potential of the AI-driven economy. For the first time, learners can earn an MBA built on Udacity’s project-based curriculum—at a fraction of the cost of traditional programmes. The degree is awarded by Woolf University and recognised under the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) across 60+ countries, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, and much of Europe. Why this matters now The timing aligns with a job market being rapidly reshaped by AI. Research from Accenture shows that 59% of executives believe AI is already reducing entry-level roles. At the same time, only 32% of companies have successfully scaled AI across their organisations—highlighting a clear gap between adoption and execution. This gap has opened up a clear opportunity—professionals who can connect technology with business strategy are now in high demand. That’s exactly the space this new MBA is targeting. What the programme offers The programme is a Master of Business Administration focused on AI product management, one of the fastest-growing roles in tech today. Key highlights: Unlike traditional MBA programmes, this course focuses heavily on practical learning. Students work on real-world projects, building skills that directly apply to industry rather than relying only on theory. Why AI product management? Product management has always been a top career path for MBA graduates, but AI is changing the game. Today’s AI product managers operate at the intersection of business, technology, and data—making them some of the most valuable hires in tech. Demand reflects that shift. Job openings in this space have surged by nearly 90% in the past year, and these roles can offer up to 36% higher salaries compared to traditional product management positions. What it means for students For most Indian students, the biggest barrier to an MBA has always been cost. Spending ₹10–20 lakh often means taking loans, pausing your career, and then spending years recovering financially. This model flips that completely. At under ₹2 lakh, the programme significantly reduces financial risk. You don’t need to quit your job or take on heavy debt. Because it’s flexible and online, you can build skills alongside your current work instead of putting everything on hold. What it means for the job market Companies are increasingly hiring based on skills, not just degrees—especially in fast-moving fields like AI. By combining an accredited MBA with hands-on, project-based learning, the programme is designed to produce candidates who can contribute from day one, not just theoretically but practically. As Kishore Durg points out, the growing need is for professionals who can connect business strategy with emerging technologies—and that gap is only getting wider. A broader push into AI education This MBA is part of Accenture’s larger $1 billion investment in its learning platform LearnVantage, aimed at scaling AI capabilities across industries. It also builds on the momentum of Udacity’s earlier AI-focused master’s programme, which attracted over 1,500 learners in its first cohort—clear evidence that demand for specialised, high-ROI education is rising fast.

The Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan has started the admission process for Class 6 and Class 9 for the year 2026. This is a great opportunity for parents who want their children to study in a quality education system with a disciplined environment. Kendriya Vidyalayas are known across the country for their high standard of education and overall development, which is why a large number of students apply for admission every year. Convenience of Online Application This year as well, the application process has been made easier by adopting an online mode. Applications have started from March 18, 2026, allowing parents to fill out the form from the comfort of their homes. This is especially beneficial for people living in remote areas. All the necessary information related to the application, such as the last date and required documents, has been made available on the official website. Eligibility and Selection Process Certain eligibility criteria have been set for admission to Classes 6 and 9. These include the student’s age limit and performance in the previous class. The selection process is transparent, and students are selected based on merit. Due to the large number of applications received every year, it is very important to apply on time. Important Precautions While Filling the Form While filling out the online application, it is very important to provide all information accurately and completely. Along with the application, documents such as the birth certificate, previous class report card, and other required documents need to be uploaded. If any errors or incomplete information are found, the application may be rejected. Therefore, it is essential to be careful while filling out the form. Merit List and Further Process The first list of selected students is expected to be released in April 2026. This list will be available on the official website and at the respective school. Students who are selected will need to pay the fees within the given time and complete other required formalities. Parents are advised to regularly check for updates. Adhering to the Deadline is Important Time plays a crucial role in the entire admission process. Each stage is completed according to a fixed schedule. If any parent fails to meet the deadline or provides incomplete information, the application may be rejected. Therefore, it is important to follow all instructions carefully. Conclusion Overall, KVS Admission 2026 is an excellent opportunity for children. With the right information and timely application, the process can be made smooth and hassle-free. It is an opportunity that can prove to be an important step toward a bright future for students.

BTech in Bioengineering vs BTech in Biosciences and Bioengineering: While the academic pathways may differ slightly, both fields contribute to solving major challenges in healthcare, sustainability and biotechnology. As biotechnology, healthcare technology and life sciences grow at a very swift pace, a lot of engineering aspirants are now looking to pursue fields that blend biology with engineering. Among the plethora of programmes available to them in India, two are often confusing to many during counselling – BTech in Bioengineering and BTech in Biosciences and Bioengineering (BSBE). The names are eerily alike, but the programmes have varying focus and learning methodologies. For undergraduate courses aspirants appearing for JEE Main and JEE Advanced and subsequent admission, a clear understanding of the difference will help them choose the programme best suited to them. programme during the admission process. BTech in Bioengineering vs BTech in Biosciences and Bioengineering: Understanding the difference The difference between Bioengineering and BSBE is that bioengineering usually starts from an engineering point of view. Students apply concepts from mechanical engineering, electronics, materials science and signal processing to design technologies that can interface with the human body. The goal is to design tools and devices that aid doctors in diagnosing disease and monitoring and treating patients. BSBE programmes have a stronger emphasis on biology in their beginnings. Students first learn molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry and cellular biology. Engineering tools and methods in computation are then applied. In a nutshell, bioengineering focuses more on engineering technologies for healthcare and BSBE focuses more on engineering biological processes. BTech in Bioengineering vs BTech in Biosciences and Bioengineering: Curriculum and learning experience Both programmes have a common engineering base in the first year, studying maths, physics, chemistry, programming and basic biology. The course then diverges. In the Bioengineering programme, students study healthcare technology such as biomedical instrumentation, biomaterials, biofluid mechanics, medical imaging and signal processing. This encourages students to learn how engineering devices interact with the human body. For example, students learn how an ECG monitors electrical signals from the heart, or how prosthetic limbs replicate natural movement. Many projects involve creating devices, systems or sensors that may be used in hospitals or medical research. In contrast, BSBE programmes delve into biological science, studying genetic engineering, molecular biology, bioinformatics, synthetic biology and biochemistry. The curriculum focuses on the workings of biological systems at the gene, protein and cell level. Many projects involve laboratory work, such as experiments involving DNA, proteins or microbes. Students also learn computational biology, an emerging field that uses software to analyse genetic data or simulate biological processes. BTech in Bioengineering vs BTech in Biosciences and Bioengineering: Where these programmes are offered In India, Top institutions in India have programmes in these areas. For instance, the BSBE programmes are offered at places like Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur and IIT Bombay. In these programmes, the mix of biology with biotechnology and computational analytics is prevalent Bio- engineering or Biomedical Engineering programmes are offered at IIT Delhi, IIT Madras, etc. In these programmes, the focus is more technology driven, on healthcare devices, medical technology, engineering design etc. The specifics of the curriculum vary from place to place, but there is a clear overarching difference in a technology driven pathway and a biology driven pathway. BTech in Bioengineering vs BTech in Biosciences and Bioengineering: Career opportunities A growing number of opportunities in both fields are emerging as the country invests more in biotech, pharma & healthcare technology. Many Bioengineering graduates shift their focus to medical technology. They work on designing and developing diagnostic equipment, rehabilitation devices, wearable health monitoring systems, surgical tools or implants. Their job is to make technology work with the human body safely and efficiently. BSBE graduates work primarily in biotech and pharma. They are employed in drug discovery, vaccine development, genetic testing, agricultural biotech etc. Many pursue higher studies in biotech, molecular biology and biomedical sciences. Research is an easy option for both the programme streams. As investments in life science are increasing, an interdisciplinary biology, engineering, AI & data science approach is gaining popularity. BTech in Bioengineering vs BTech in Biosciences and Bioengineering: How students can decide For some students, the decision between programmes comes down to personal academic interests. Biology engineering students may be more interested in mathematics, physics, electronics and creating physical systems. If the thought of designing medical devices or healthcare technology is more appealing, this could be the right track. Biology students may be more interested in biology, genetics and cellular processes. Students who are more interested in laboratory research and the science of life at an in depth level may prefer this programme. BTech in Bioengineering vs BTech in Biosciences and Bioengineering: Looking ahead The future of science and technology is interdisciplinary. Breakthroughs in bioinformatics, personalised medicine, synthetic biology and AI-driven drug discovery are narrowing the divide between engineers and life scientists like never before. Both BTech in Bioengineering and BTech in Biosciences and Bioengineering offer a fascinating route for aspirants who want to stand at the intersection of these innovations. Though the academic routes may differ just slightly, both fields aim to solve profound problems in the fields of healthcare, sustainability and biotechnology. For engineering aspirants today, the choice is no longer about which programme is better but rather where does one want to direct their curiosity and long-term aspirations.