Who is Known as the Architect of Indian Planning?

India’s development journey after independence required a strong and structured approach to economic growth. The idea of planning was introduced to ensure balanced progress in agriculture, industry and infrastructure. This visionary strategy aimed to reduce poverty, improve living standards, and build a self-reliant nation through systematic allocation to resources and focused developmental programs. In this article, we will know about the person who is known as the “Architect of Indian Planning.”

Architect of Indian Planning

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis is known as the “Architect of Indian Planning.” He played a key role in shaping India’s economic development after independence by designing the country’s Five-Year Plans. His focus on industrialization and statistical methods helped guide national growth. Mahalanobis’ contributions made him a pioneer in modern economic planning for India.

Early Life and Education

Mahalanobis was born on 29 June 1893 in Calcutta (now Kolkata), West Bengal. He belonged to a respected Bengali family known for its social contributions. His grandfather was influenced by Debendranath Tagore, a reformer and father of poet Rabindranath Tagore.

He studied at the Brahmo Boys School and later at Presidency College, where he earned a degree in physics. In 1913, he went to King’s College, Cambridge, where he met great minds like mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan.

Starting the Indian Statistical Institute

In 1931, Mahalanobis gathered a group of experts to discuss statistics. This meeting led to the founding of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in Kolkata. It officially became an organization in 1932. ISI became famous for its contributions to statistics and even started the journal Sankhya in 1933.

The Mahalanobis Distance

Mahalanobis introduced the Mahalanobis distance in 1930. This is a method to measure how different a point is from a group of data. It is widely used in fields like data analysis, classification and clustering.

Contributions to Survey

Mahalanobis worked on sample surveys, which involve studying small groups to understand larger populations. He developed methods to measure things like crop production and consumer habits. His work inspired international organizations like the World Bank and the United Nations.

Role in India’s Planning

After India gained independence, Mahalanobis became a member of the Planning Commission. He played a key role in designing the country’s Five-Year Plans. His ideas focused on industrialization and economic growth.

Later Years of Architect of Indian Planning

Mahalanobis also worked with Rabindranath Tagore at the Visva-Bharati University and promoted cultural activities. He continued his research and work until his passing on 28 June 1972, just a day before his 79th birthday.

Awards and Legacy of Mahalanobis

Mahalanobis received the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, for his contributions to science. He is celebrated as the Father of Indian Statistics, and his methods remain important in research and planning worldwide.

Recap 2024: Top 10 Richest Cities in India 2024

In 2024, India has witnessed an unprecedented surge in the number of billionaires, with 94 new individuals joining the ranks of the ultra-wealthy. This remarkable growth has solidified India’s position as one of the fastest-growing hubs for billionaires globally, second only to the United States. As a result, India’s billionaires now collectively hold a staggering wealth of approximately US$ 1 trillion, contributing to 7% of the world’s total wealth. This expansion in wealth is reshaping India’s urban landscape, particularly in its major cities.

Top 10 Richest Cities in India 2024

Mumbai: The Billionaire Capital of Asia

Mumbai, the financial capital of India, continues to dominate as the richest city in the country. With 386 billionaires as of 2024, Mumbai has surpassed Beijing to become the “billionaire capital of Asia” and the third richest city in the world. This surge in wealth is attributed to Mukesh Ambani and his family, the richest residents in Mumbai, who have played a pivotal role in the city’s financial success.

In 2024 alone, Mumbai saw an addition of 58 new billionaires, reflecting a 47% surge in wealth. The city’s rise to prominence is in stark contrast to Beijing, which experienced a 28% decline in its billionaire population. Mumbai’s wealth is fueled by its status as India’s financial and business hub, housing numerous multinational corporations, banking giants, and the thriving Bollywood film industry.

New Delhi: The Political and Corporate Powerhouse

Following Mumbai, New Delhi has cemented its position as the second richest city in India. With 217 billionaires, New Delhi has emerged as a key destination for India’s wealthiest individuals. The capital city is home to a number of high-profile billionaires, with Shiv Nadar and his family leading the charge as the richest individuals in tRecap 2024:he city.

New Delhi’s economy thrives on its role as the political epicenter of India, along with its thriving service sector, including industries like technology, finance, and real estate. The city has seen the addition of 18 new billionaires in 2024, contributing significantly to its economic growth and further establishing it as a key player in India’s wealthy landscape.

Hyderabad: A Fast-Rising Hub of Wealth

Hyderabad has seen remarkable growth, surpassing Bengaluru for the first time in terms of the number of billionaires. With 104 billionaires, the city ranks third among India’s wealthiest cities in 2024. The city’s rise has been driven by its burgeoning technology and pharmaceutical sectors, with Murali Divi and his family being the wealthiest residents in the city.

The addition of 17 new billionaires has helped Hyderabad secure its position as a wealth hub in India. The city is home to several multinational IT companies, along with a rapidly growing biotech industry, positioning it as a major player in both national and global markets.

Bengaluru: The IT Capital of India

Bengaluru, India’s technology capital, remains one of the wealthiest cities, although it now holds the fourth spot in terms of billionaires, with 100 billionaires. Despite a slight slip in rankings, Bengaluru continues to be a powerhouse for India’s tech industry. Azim Premji and his family, recognized for their vast wealth, are the richest individuals in the city.

Bengaluru is known for being the Silicon Valley of India, housing numerous IT companies and startups. The city has consistently attracted both domestic and international investments, leading to a steady increase in its billionaire population. In 2024, Bengaluru added several new billionaires to its ranks, contributing to its continued wealth generation.

Chennai: A Stronghold of Industry and Culture

Chennai, with a population of 82 billionaires in 2024, ranks fifth in India’s wealthiest cities. Known for its manufacturing industries, including automobile and electronics, Chennai is home to Venu Srinivasan, the city’s wealthiest individual.

Chennai has experienced steady growth, with its industries bolstering both its local and national economy. The city’s prominence in the automobile sector, along with its expanding tech and healthcare industries, has contributed significantly to its economic prosperity.

Kolkata: A Hub of Commerce and Heritage

Kolkata, historically a major center for trade and commerce, ranks sixth in India with 69 billionaires. The city has been the home of industrialists such as Benu Gopal Bangur and his family, who top the wealth list in Kolkata. Known for its cultural heritage and stronghold in industries like jute production, engineering, and finance, Kolkata continues to be an important economic hub.

Ahmedabad: Gujarat’s Industrial Powerhouse

Ahmedabad, with 67 billionaires, ranks seventh in India in 2024. The city is the birthplace of Gautam Adani and his family, who are among the richest individuals in the country. Ahmedabad has flourished due to its dominance in textile manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and diamond processing industries.

Gujarat, the state in which Ahmedabad is located, has long been a powerhouse of industry and commerce, and its thriving business environment has made it a preferred destination for India’s wealthiest individuals.

Pune: A Growing IT and Educational Hub

Pune, with 53 billionaires, ranks eighth in India in 2024. The city’s growth can be attributed to its expanding information technology sector, along with its prominence as an educational and automobile manufacturing center. The city’s wealthiest individual is Cyrus S Poonawalla, known for his significant contributions to the pharmaceutical industry.

Surat: The Diamond Capital of the World

Surat, known as the diamond capital of the world, ranks ninth with 28 billionaires. The city’s wealth comes from its dominance in diamond polishing and textile manufacturing. Ashwin Desai and his family are the richest residents in Surat.

Surat’s rapid industrialization and increasing number of billionaires highlight its growing significance in India’s wealth landscape.

Gurugram: The Emerging Financial Hub

Gurugram, with 23 billionaires, rounds out the top 10 richest cities in India in 2024. Known for its modern infrastructure, proximity to New Delhi, and status as a hub for IT, finance, and real estate, Gurugram has seen a rise in ultra-wealthy individuals, including Nirmal Kumar Minda and his family.

The Top 10 Richest States in India in 2024

India’s wealth distribution is also noteworthy, with certain states leading the charge in terms of the number of billionaires. Maharashtra stands at the top with 470 billionaires, followed by Delhi with 213 and Gujarat with 129 billionaires. These states have seen rapid industrialization, coupled with thriving financial and tech sectors, contributing significantly to India’s overall wealth.

Recap 2024: Most Populated Indian Cities in 2024

Every year, July 11th is observed as World Population Day, a global initiative to highlight the opportunities and challenges posed by the world’s burgeoning population. The observance emphasizes the need for sustainable development, equitable resource distribution, and policies that address overpopulation and underpopulation concerns.

The global population has seen an unprecedented rise over the centuries. While it took thousands of years for the world to reach a population of 1 billion, the subsequent growth to 7 billion occurred in just 200 years. As of 2024, the world population stands at an estimated 8 billion, with projections indicating further growth to 8.5 billion by 2030, 9.7 billion by 2050, and 10.9 billion by 2100.

India: The Most Populous Nation

India, with its population surpassing 1.4 billion in 2024, has overtaken China as the most populous country in the world, according to the UNFPA State of the World Population Report. Approximately 68% of India’s population falls within the productive age group of 15 to 64, and 26% are aged between 10 and 24, making India one of the youngest nations globally. Despite its large population, India has achieved significant milestones in controlling its growth rate, with a steady decline in the fertility rate.

Understanding Population Trends in India

Declining Fertility Rate

India’s total fertility rate (TFR) has decreased from 2.2 (reported in NFHS 4, 2015–16) to 2.0 (NFHS 5, 2019–21), dropping below the replacement level of 2.1. Experts attribute this to increased awareness, improved healthcare, and successful implementation of family planning programs. While this is a positive development, India’s current population size is largely due to population momentum from previous decades.

Projected Population Decline

Despite the current growth rate of just under 1% annually, India’s population is expected to stabilize and possibly decline around 2050. This is in line with global trends where developing nations experience a population surge before gradually transitioning into stabilization or decline.

India’s Top 10 Most Populated Cities in 2024

India’s rapid urbanization and the rise of megacities are noteworthy. As per the UN World Urbanisation Prospects 2018 (released in April 2024), several Indian cities have emerged as densely populated urban hubs. Below is a detailed exploration of the top 10 most populated cities in India in 2024:

1. Delhi

Population (2024): 33,807,403
State/UT: New Delhi
Global Rank: 2
Change from 2023: 2.34% increase

Delhi, the capital of India, is the world’s second-most populous city, surpassing the populations of entire nations like Malaysia and Peru. It is a vibrant hub of political, economic, and cultural activities, with 33.8 million residents calling it home in 2024.

2. Mumbai

Population (2024): 21,673,149
State: Maharashtra
Global Rank: 9
Change from 2023: 1.50% increase

Mumbai, often referred to as India’s financial capital, boasts a population of over 21.6 million, exceeding the populations of Romania and the Netherlands. The city is a melting pot of diverse cultures and is renowned for its thriving film industry, Bollywood.

3. Kolkata

Population (2024): 15,570,786
State: West Bengal
Global Rank: 18
Change from 2023: 1.08% increase

Kolkata, the cultural hub of India, houses over 15.5 million residents, a population larger than that of Greece and Portugal combined. Known for its literary and artistic heritage, the city continues to grow steadily.

4. Bangalore

Population (2024): 14,008,262
State: Karnataka
Global Rank: 23
Change from 2023: 0.97% increase

Bangalore, India’s technology capital, has a population of 14 million, surpassing Belgium. The city is a global IT hub and a key player in India’s economic growth.

5. Chennai

Population (2024): 12,053,697
State: Tamil Nadu
Global Rank: 28
Change from 2023: 0.83% increase

Chennai, a major metropolitan city in southern India, has a population of over 12 million, larger than Cuba’s. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, IT parks, and automobile industry.

6. Hyderabad

Population (2024): 11,068,877
State: Telangana
Global Rank: 34
Change from 2023: 0.76% increase

Hyderabad, a key IT and pharmaceutical hub, is home to 11 million people, surpassing Hungary’s population. The city is famous for its historical landmarks and modern infrastructure.

7. Ahmedabad

Population (2024): 8,854,444
State: Gujarat
Global Rank: 45
Change from 2023: 0.61% increase

Ahmedabad, a major industrial city in Gujarat, houses nearly 8.8 million residents. It is a hub for trade and commerce and boasts a rich cultural heritage.

8. Surat

Population (2024): 8,330,528
State: Gujarat
Global Rank: 50
Change from 2023: 0.57% increase

Surat, a rapidly growing industrial city, is known as the diamond capital of the world. Its population exceeds 8.3 million, making it one of India’s fastest-growing cities.

9. Pune

Population (2024): 7,345,848
State: Maharashtra
Global Rank: 58
Change from 2023: 0.51% increase

Pune, a major educational and IT hub, has a population of over 7.3 million. The city is renowned for its pleasant climate and historical significance.

10. Jaipur

Population (2024): 4,308,510
State: Rajasthan
Global Rank: 112
Change from 2023: 0.23% increase

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is home to over 4.3 million residents. Known as the Pink City, it is a major tourist destination and a hub for traditional arts and crafts.

List of Important Days in January 2025, National and International Days

January is a month full of important national and international days. These days are celebrated to honor significant events, raise awareness about important issues and remember influential people. From marking the start of the new year to celebrating youth and human rights, January brings several opportunities to reflect and take actions on meaningful causes. Here is a list of key days to remember in January 2025.

Important Days in January 2025

January 2025 is the first month of the year and is named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings. It is a month full of fresh starts and new possibilities, symbolizing new opportunities for growth and reflection. The month of January holds various important national and international days, which are observed to raise awareness, celebrate achievements and honor significant events and people.

List of Important Days in January 2025

January 2025 is filled with significant days that celebrate various elements, events, people and causes. These important days highlight historical events, cultural observances and important social issues, offering a chance for reflection and awareness.

Here is the list of important days in January 2025:

January 2025 Important Days
January Dates	January Important Days
1 January	Global Family Day
3 January	International Mind Body Wellness Day
4 January	World Braille Day
5 January	National Birds Day
6 January	World Day of War Orphans
6 January	Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti
8 January	African National Congress Foundation Day
8 January	Earth’s Rotation Day
9 January	NRI (Non-Resident Indian) Day or Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
10 January	World Hindi Day
11 January	Death Anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri
11 January	National Human Trafficking Awareness Day
12 January	National Youth Day
13 January	Lohri Festival
14 January	Makar Sankranti
14 January	Pongal
14 January	Mahayana New Year
15 January	Indian Army Day
16 January	National Startup Day
16 January	Martin Luther King Jr Day
17 January	Benjamin Franklin Day
21 January	Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya Foundation Day
23 January	Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti
24 January	National Girl Child Day
24 January	International Day of Education
25 January	National Voters Day
25 January	National Tourism Day
26 January	Republic Day
26 January	International Customs Day
27 January	National Geographic Day
28 January	Birth Anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai
28 January	K.M. Cariappa Jayanti
29 January	Indian Newspaper Day
30 January	Martyrs Day or Shaheed Diwas
30 January	World Leprosy Day
31 January	International Zebra Day

Recap 2024: Top-10 Digital Influencers of India in 2024

The digital space in India has been significant growth in 2024, with influencers becoming powerful voices on social media. These influencers share opinions, trends, and even marketing strategies. Here is a list of the top-10 digital influencers of India in 2024 who have made a mark in various fields like entertainment, beauty, lifestyle and technology.

The Focus of 2024

Forbes’ selection process this year focused on celebrating diversity and innovation. The list highlights creators from different fields, such as fashion, comedy, beauty, technology, health and food. It shows how digital influencers are increasingly shaping cultural conversations and trends in India, making their voices louder and more influential.

Top Influencers of 2024

The list is led by Nancy Tyagi, a fashion and lifestyle influencer who stole the show with her stunning appearance at Cannes 2024. Comedy creators have also gained significant recognition thsi year, with creators like Sakshi Keswani (Being Suku), Danny Pandit and Dharna Durga leading the way. These creators are loved for their humor, which connects with millions of people online.

Top-10 Digital Influencers of India 2024

The Forbes list of top-10 digital influencers of India 2024 highlights the most influential creators across various fields, from fashion and comedy to beauty and technology, shaping trends and cultural conversations in the digital world.

S. No.	Name	Content Type
1.	Nancy Tyagi	Fashion & lifestyle
2.	Sakshi Keswani	Comedy
3.	Danny Pandit	Comedy
4.	Dharna Durga	Comedy
5.	Mahesh Keshwala	Comedy
6.	Harshita Gupta	Comedy
7.	Rajvardhan Grover	Comedy
8.	Apoorva Mukhija	Comedy
9.	Tarini Peshwaria	Beauty
10.	Kiran Dutta	Comedy

Top-5 Tamarind Producing Indian States 2024

Tamarind is an essential fruit in India cuisine, known for its tangy flavor. It is widely used in cooking, making sauces and for medicinal purposes. Several states in India produce tamarind, with some states leading in its production. In this article, we will explore the top-5 tamarind-producing states in India as of 2024.

Tamarind Production in India 2024

India is the world’s largest producer of tamarind. In 2023, the country produced more than 162,000 metric tons of tamarind. This makes India the top producer, with tamarind being an important crop used in cooking and various products across the country.

Top-5 Tamarind Producing Indian States

The top-5 tamarind producing states in India are key contributors to the country’s overall supply. These regions play an essential role in meeting the national demand, each producing a significant share of the total tamarind harvest. Here are the names of top-5 tamarind producing Indian states:

Karnataka
Tamil Nadu
Kerala
Andhra Pradesh
Telangana

Largest Tamarind Producer in India 2024

Karnataka is India’s largest producer of tamarind, contributing 48.79 thousand metric tons. This makes up 28.04% of the country’s total tamarind production. The state’s significant share highlights its importance in tamarind farming and its role in meeting national demand.

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu stands second in tamarind production in India, producing 45.22 thousand metric tons annually. This accounts for 25.99% of the total tamarind produced in the country. The state plays a vital role in fulfilling national demand, with its significant contribution to tamarind farming and cultivation.

Kerala

Kerala ranks third in tamarind production, with an impressive 32.31 thousand metric tons annually. This represents 18.57% of India’s total production. The state is known for its favorable climate and expertise in cultivating this important crop.

Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is the fourth largest producer of tamarind in India, with an annual production of 14.32 thousand metric tons. This makes up 8.23% of the total tamarind produced in the country. The state contributes to the nation’s supply of tamarind, a key ingredient in many dishes.

Telangana

Telangana occupies the fifth position in tamarind production, contributing 12.66 thousand metric tons annually. This accounts for 7.28% of India’s overall tamarind production. The state’s consistent yield plays an essential role in meeting the demand for tamarind across the country.

Puducherry Commemorates Tsunami Victims on 20th Memorial Day

The 20th anniversary of the 2004 tsunami was observed across the coastal districts of Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Karaikal in Tamil Nadu on December 26, 2024. The events served to honor the victims of the devastating disaster, recognize the resilience of the survivors, and reflect on the progress made in rebuilding communities affected by the tsunami. Wreath-laying ceremonies, processions, and interfaith prayers were organized, with participation from government officials, local leaders, and community members.

Key Events At Different Locations

Nagapattinam

Location: Tsunami Memorial Park, District Collectorate premises
Key Figures: District Collector P. Akash, Tamil Nadu Tadco Chairman U. Mathivanan, Nagapattinam MLA J. Mohammed Shah Nawaz, Kilvelur MLA V.P. Nagai Mali, Superintendent of Police A.K. Arun Kabilan
Activities: Wreath-laying, moment of silence, candle lighting

Velankanni

Location: Beach to mass burial site (where over 1,000 victims are buried)
Participants: Over 500 people, including fishermen, traders, and the public
Led By: Velankanni Basilica Rector Fr. R. Irudayaraj
Activities: 3-kilometre procession, floral tributes, interfaith prayers (readings from Bhagavad Gita, Quran, Bible), families offering favorite foods and drinks of the deceased

Mayiladuthurai

Location: Tsunami Memorial in Porayar
Key Figures: District Collector A.P. Mahabharathi, Sirkazhi Revenue Divisional Officer Suresh, Tharangambadi Town Panchayat Chairperson Suguna Sankari
Activities: Floral wreath laying, ceremony participation by local officials

Karaikal

Location: Tsunami Memorial on Karaikal beach
Key Figures: Minister P. R. N. Thirumurugan, District Collector D. Manikandan
Activities: Floral tributes, interfaith prayers, observances in Poovam Nandalaru, Thirupattinam Pattinacheri, Polagam

Additional Observances

Fishermen in the coastal fishing villages of Nagapattinam abstained from fishing to participate in the ceremonies.
Community leaders, local officials, and family members of victims played a key role in the memorial services.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Puducherry Commemorates Tsunami Victims on 20th Memorial Day
District and Location	Key Activities and Participants
Nagapattinam – Tsunami Memorial Park	Wreath-laying, candle lighting, moment of silence. Led by P. Akash, U. Mathivanan, J. Mohammed Shah Nawaz, A.K. Arun Kabilan. Honoring 6,065 victims.
Velankanni – Beach to Mass Burial Site	3-km procession, floral tributes, interfaith prayers (Bhagavad Gita, Quran, Bible). Over 500 participants led by Fr. R. Irudayaraj. Families offered food for deceased.
Mayiladuthurai – Tsunami Memorial in Porayar	Floral wreath laying. Led by A.P. Mahabharathi, Suresh, Suguna Sankari. Focus on Tharangambadi taluk victims.
Karaikal – Tsunami Memorial on Karaikal Beach	Floral tributes, interfaith prayers, ceremonies at Poovam Nandalaru, Thirupattinam Pattinacheri, Polagam. Led by P. R. N. Thirumurugan, D. Manikandan.

BFI Chief Ajay Singh Joins Asian Body Board

World Boxing has welcomed Asia as its newest member, marking a pivotal step in ensuring the sport’s continued presence in the Olympic Games, including LA 2028 and beyond. The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) has emerged as a significant contributor to the new structure, securing seven influential positions. BFI president Ajay Singh will serve as a board member, while other Indian officials will hold key roles across various commissions. Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain has also been appointed to the Athletes’ Commission, ensuring athletes’ voices are heard in shaping the sport’s future.

Key Points

Formation of Asian Boxing Body

Asia joins as a member of World Boxing to strengthen the sport’s position in the Olympics.
Interim body created to drive policy and strategic initiatives for Asian boxing.

India’s Representation

BFI President Ajay Singh: Appointed as a board member.
BFI Secretary General Hemanta Kumar Kalita: Member of the Olympic Commission.
BFI Treasurer Digvijay Singh: Member of the Finance and Audit Committee.
BFI Vice President Narender Kumar Nirwan: Member of the Constitution Commission.
BFI Disciplinary Chairman D.P. Bhatt: Member of the Sports and Competition Commission.
Karanjeet Singh: Member of the Medical Commission.

Lovlina Borgohain’s Role

Member of the Athletes’ Commission to represent athlete voices in Asia and globally.
Focus on improving training infrastructure, fair opportunities, and robust support systems for boxers.

India’s Strategic Positioning

Strong representation ensures India influences policy-making and development in Asian boxing.
Active role in fostering talent and promoting the sport across Asia.

Recent Achievements

India to host the World Boxing Cup Final and World Boxing Congress in 2025.
Highlights India’s leadership in advancing the sport globally.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	BFI Chief Ajay Singh Joins Asian Body Board
Asian Boxing Body	Asia joins World Boxing to enhance boxing’s Olympic future.
India’s Presentation	7 key positions for Indian officials in the interim body, including Ajay Singh as a board member.
Lovlina Borgohain’s Role	Member of Athletes’ Commission; advocates for athletes’ rights and better infrastructure.
Strategic Focus	India’s involvement in policy-making and driving development of boxing in Asia.
Recent Achievements	Hosting World Boxing Cup Final and World Boxing Congress in 2025.

India Launches UG Minor in Quantum Technologies

India’s first Undergraduate (UG) Minor Programme in Quantum Technologies, jointly launched by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the National Quantum Mission (NQM), is set to commence from the next academic session. Designed for engineering students in their third or fourth semester, this initiative aims to create a skilled workforce in quantum computing and related fields, aligning with India’s National Quantum Mission goals.

Programme Overview

The UG Minor Programme offers engineering and technology students an opportunity to specialize in quantum technologies by covering core subjects such as quantum mechanics, quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum algorithms. This initiative positions India as a significant player in the global quantum landscape by fostering talent in areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing.

Curriculum Structure and Flexibility

Students can choose 18 credits from over 30 courses, ensuring flexibility and customization according to institutional resources. Key focus areas include Quantum Computation, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing, and Quantum Materials. AICTE collaborates with top-tier institutes like IITs, IIITs, and NITs to design a curriculum that matches global standards and industry demands.

Hands-on Learning and Faculty Training

The programme emphasizes experiential learning through project-based activities, offering practical exposure to quantum simulators and software. Advanced quantum laboratories will be established to enhance research and application skills. AICTE’s Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) will equip educators with expertise in quantum technologies, ensuring quality education.

Infrastructure and National Vision

Aligned with NQM’s objectives, the programme addresses challenges like infrastructure development and teacher training. By establishing robust academic-industry linkages, it seeks to boost employability, innovation, and research capabilities. This initiative is a critical step in advancing India’s quantum science ambitions and strengthening its global competitiveness.

Summary of the news

Key Points	Details
Why in News	AICTE and NQM launched India’s first Undergraduate Minor Programme in Quantum Technologies, starting from the third semester for engineering students.
Focus Areas	Quantum Computation, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing, and Quantum Materials.
Collaborating Institutions	IITs, IIITs, and NITs partnered to design and implement the course curriculum.
Credits and Courses	Students can select 18 credits from over 30 courses.
Hands-on Learning	Includes practical exposure to quantum simulators and project-based learning.
Infrastructure Development	Advanced quantum laboratories to be established for practical and research purposes.
Faculty Training	Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) to train educators in quantum technology.
National Quantum Mission	A government initiative focusing on advancing quantum technologies in areas like cybersecurity, AI, and high-performance computing.

Top-10 Most Searched Games on Google in 2024, Check the List

In 2024, gaming reached new heights, with millions of people exploring their favorite titles online. Some games stood out and became the most searched on Google, captivating players with exciting updates, competitive challenges and endless creativity. Let’s delve into the most searched games on Google in the year 2024.

Top-10 Most Searched Games on Google in 2024

The top-10 most searched games on Google in 2024 showcase a mix of exciting gameplay, innovative features and captivating stories. These games have kept players engaged, drawing attention with their unique concepts and active communities.

Here is the list of top-10 most searched games on Google in 2024:

Rank	Games	Highlights
1.	Connections	Combines puzzles with social fun, offering challenges and fostering an active online community.
2.	Palworld	Features monster-catching and survival in a vast open world; sold 8+ copies in six days.
3.	Infinite Craft	A sandbox game with endless creativity, and a vibrant community.
4.	Sprunki	Loved for cute graphics, fun platforming and regular updates for casual gamers.
5.	Helldivers 2	Popular for cooperative missions, tough enemies and teamwork challenges.
6.	Wuthering Waves	An action RPG with stunning graphics, rich storylines and immense exploration.
7.	Black Myth: Wukong	Excites players with Chinese mythology, dynamic combat and stunning visuals.
8.	Strands	A unique multiplayer game focused on teamwork and engaging mechanics.
9.	Brawl Stars	Known for fast-paced action, colorful graphics and community-driven competitive modes.
10.	PokeRogue	A Pokemon-inspired roguelike that offers fresh challenges and attracts new and old fans.

Connections

Connections is a word puzzle game developed by The New York Times and released on June 12, 2023, is its beta phase. It quickly became popular and is now the second-most played game by The New York Times, after Wordle. In 2024, it was one of the most searched games on Google due to its fun and challenging gameplay.

Palworld

Palworld is an action-adventure and survival game by Pocketpair, featuring monster-taming and open-world gameplay. Players capture creatures called “Pals” for battles, building and tasks. Released in early 2024, it became a huge hit, selling over 15 million units and attracting millions of players worldwide. Known for its unique, humorous premise, it was one of the most searched games on Google in 2024.

Infinite Craft

Infinite Craft, a 2024 sandbox game by Neal Agarwal, lets players combine AI-generated elements to create new ones. Released in early 2024 for browsers, followed by iOS and Android, the game quickly gained popularity. Critics praised its unpredictable and creative gameplay, making it one of the most searched games on Google in 2024.

Sprunki

Sprunki became a favorite in 2024 due to its adorable graphics and fun platforming challenges. Players enjoyed its easygoing gameplay and exciting levels. Regular updates from the developers kept the game fresh and engaging, making it one of the most searched games on Google, especially popular with casual gamers looking for lighthearted fun.

Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2, a cooperative third-person shooter, was released in February 2024 for PlayStation 5 and Windows. Set in the 22nd century, players join an elite force to protect humanity. The game received positive reviews and became PlayStation’s fastest-selling game, selling over 12million copies in three months, making it one of the most searched game in 2024.

Wuthering Waves

Wuthering Waves, released in May 2024, is a free-to-play open-world action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic world. Players follow an amnesiac character, Rover, exploring the dangerous world of Solaris-3. The game focuses on combat and world-building, drawing inspiration from games like Death Stranding and Genshin Impact. It became one of the most searched games in 2024 due to its exciting gameplay.

Black Myth: Wukong

Black Myth: Wukong, released in August 2024, is an action RPG inspired by the Chinese novel Journey to the West. Players control a monkey character based on Sun Wukong. The game received positive and sold 20 million copies in its first month, making it one of the fastest-selling games. It became one of the most searched games in 2024.

Strands

Strands gained popularity in 2024 for its unique multiplayer experience centered around teamwork. Players enjoyed collaborating to overcome challenges, making the game both fun and engaging. Its creative concept and enjoyable gameplay mechanics attracted many players, making it one of the most searched game of the year.

Brawl Stars

Brawl Stars, released in December 2018 by Supercell, is a popular multiplayer game where players battle in various modes. Players can choose from a wide range of characters called “Brawlers,” each with unique abilities. The game’s fast-paced action and fun gameplay made it one of the most searched games on Google in 2024.

PokeRogue

PokeRogue became popular in 2024 by adding roguelike elements to the classic Pokemon games. Players enjoyed the new challengers, making each game different from the last. This fresh twist on the familiar Pokemon gameplay attracted both long-time fans and newcomers, making it one of the most searched games of the year.