Latest news with #AlokKumarRai
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Majority spend first pay check on gifts for family: study
HighlightsThe Bharat Lab's research report "My First Salary" reveals the profound emotional significance of first paychecks for young earners in India's Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, emphasizing it as a cultural milestone. The study found that 88.5 percent of women perceive their salary as a symbol of personal freedom, with 44.6 percent of participants choosing to inform their mothers first about their earnings. The report recommends that fintech platforms provide flexible investment options, policymakers reassess entry-level salary benchmarks in semi-urban India, and educational institutions enhance financial literacy, especially for women. Rediffusion and Lucknow University's joint think tank, The Bharat Lab, has unveiled a new research report titled "My First Salary," delving into the financial behaviors and emotional experiences of young earners in India's Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities . The study, which surveyed 2,125 individuals, highlights that a first paycheck is more than just a financial event—it is a cultural milestone with significant emotional weight. Sandeep Goyal, co-chairman of Bharat Lab, said, "A first salary is more than a transaction. It's a declaration of independence, a family ritual, and often, a quiet revolution—especially for women." Alok Kumar Rai, chairman of Bharat Lab, added that the research reflects the "heartbeats of the nation" and speaks to a broad audience, not just economists. Key findings reveal that 38.8 percent of respondents spent their first salary on gifts, primarily for family, while 24.5 percent saved their income and 20.4 percent donated to religious or social causes. Notably, 88.5 percent of women viewed their salary as a symbol of personal freedom. Furthermore, 44.6 percent of participants informed their mothers first, underlining the importance of family bonds. The report also highlighted that one in three women opt to buy gold with their first income. Regarding Gen Z in Bharat, 76 percent prefer flexible investment models over rigid monthly SIPs, often linking investments to personal goals. This indicates a desire for personalized and adaptable financial planning. Based on the findings, the report provides recommendations for various stakeholders. Fintech platforms are advised to introduce flexible investment options, policymakers should reconsider entry-level salary benchmarks in semi-urban India, marketers should focus on emotional themes in their campaigns, and educational institutions should integrate financial literacy, particularly for women, into their curricula.
Time of India
17-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
LU vice chancellor stresses on accountability in journalism
Lucknow: Accountability in journalism is crucial, as it ensures that journalists are responsible for the accuracy, fairness, and ethical implications of their work, thereby helping to maintain public trust. This was emphasised by Lucknow University vice-chancellor Prof Alok Kumar Rai during a seminar held on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Narad Muni , who is often referred to as 'the first journalist' — a symbolic interpretation within Hindu mythology and tradition. The programme was organised under the joint aegis of Vishwa Samvad Kendra, Lucknow, and the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication. "A journalist works for public welfare by practicing journalism in the spirit of 'Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya'. A journalist guides society through his conduct and writing, which should reflect the spirit of nation-building," said RSS Prachar Pramukh Subhash ji. He further said that a journalist is a warrior who sacrifices his life for the development of the country and society. In ancient times, the first journalist, Devarshi Narad ji, played the role of an ideal communicator — a role that, he said, is often wrongly portrayed in films. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Want Lower Bills Without Changing a Thing? elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Learn More Undo Citing the example of Punjab in the 1980s, he highlighted how Lala Jagat Narayan, editor of Punjab Kesari, stood against terrorism and upheld national duty through his journalism. Though he was ultimately assassinated, his contribution to journalism remains commendable. Others present were LU journalism and mass communication department coordinator Prof Mukul Srivastava and associate professor Sourabh Malviya, whose book 'Golden Signature of Indian Journalism' was also released released on the occasion
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Lucknow Univ receives record 2,379 applications from foreign students
Lucknow: Lucknow University (LU) received a record 2,379 applications from foreign students for admissions to various courses in the 2025-26 academic session. The figure has increased by over three times in the past five years. In previous sessions, the university received 1,769 applications in 2024-25; 1,365 in 2023-24; 814 in 2022-23 and 637 in 2021-22. "We are committed to offering international students a structured and inclusive academic environment. Over the past five years, we have aligned our educational practices with NEP to meet global benchmarks. Our efforts are reflected in the growing interest from students across the world. We have made arrangements for safe and comfortable accommodation in separate international hostels for boys and girls," LU vice-chancellor Prof Alok Kumar Rai said Of the 2,379 applications received so far, 2,153 came through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), 176 under the Study in India and EDCIL programmes, and 50 via direct admission. The figures may rise further as the application window remains open till June end. Applicants represent about 76 countries, including Poland, France, Spain, Belarus, Russia, Sierra Leone, Angola, Botswana, Thailand, Cambodia, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Iraq, Kenya, Laos, Lesotho, Madagascar, Nepal, Nigeria, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Mexico and Ukraine. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch Bitcoin và Ethereum - Không cần ví! IC Markets BẮT ĐẦU NGAY Undo For the first time, applications have been received from students in Poland and Taiwan. Applicants have sought admission to programmes across all faculties, including MBA, engineering, pharmacy and PhD courses. Explaining the reasons behind this surge, LU officials said the university entices international students with a clear, supportive academic setup. "By updating its programmes to match the National Education Policy, the university has raised its global profile and received more applications from abroad. International students enjoy secure, comfortable housing in separate hostels for boys and girls. Beyond academics the university helps newcomers settle in through regular counselling and workshops on language, communication, and cultural adaptation. Every application follows govt rules, ensuring a fair and transparent process," an official said. "Alongside academics, we focus on helping students adjust to a multicultural setting through regular counselling and workshops that address language, communication and social integration. Every application is screened according to govt norms to ensure transparency and compliance," the LU VC said.
Time of India
16-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Student hostel to be set up on LU 2nd campus
Lucknow: Lucknow University is set to expand its student accommodation facilities in a move to meet the rising demand for on-campus housing. A student hostel will be constructed on the second campus of the university along with the addition of a new floor to the existing Ganga Hostel. These upgrades are scheduled to be completed for the 2026–27 academic session. This announcement was made by dean, student welfare, VK Sharma during a recent episode of the university's official podcast 'A world for everyone', hosted by Vice-Chancellor Alok Kumar Rai. "These upcoming projects are part of a bigger plan to improve student welfare and campus facilities. With more students enrolling every year, there is a growing need for extra hostel space. Our goal is to provide students not only with a place to stay but also a comfortable and well-equipped environment that supports their academic and personal growth. A new student hostel will be built on the university's second campus, and an additional floor will be added to the existing Ganga Hostel. Both projects are expected to be completed by the 2026–27 academic session. Once the funds are secured, work on the project will begin immediately." said LU spokesperson Durgesh Srivastava.
Time of India
08-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
LUIPS gets a computer lab, other facilities
Lucknow: A computer lab with 50 computers, a faculty room, a lift and a 280-seat auditorium have been inaugurated at the Lucknow University 's Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (LUIPS). These upgrades aim to enhance student and faculty experiences by supporting online learning, research and industry-ready of the university Alok Kumar Rai launched the annual magazine LUIPS–Synergy (2024–25), showcasing achievements of students, faculty and researchers. He honoured 24 students who qualified for GATE 2025 and 37 students placed in MedPlus and Macleods Pharmaceuticals."Infrastructure alone does not define progress, it is the opportunities we create for students to grow, innovate and succeed that truly matter. This development is a step toward shaping a brighter future for them." the VC said.
