Latest news with #Covid-induced
Time of India
8 hours ago
- General
- Time of India
Woman writes entire Quran with dip pen
Mangaluru: In a feat of devotion and perseverance, a BCom graduate from Puttur has become one of the few women in India to write the entire Holy Quran using a traditional dip pen (qalam). Fathima Sajla Ismail, daughter of Ismail Baithadka BP, a private school founder-secretary and Zohra Jasmine, a homemaker, spent about 2,416 hours meticulously copying all 30 sections (juz) of the Quran in calligraphy, without a single deviation. A graduate from Markazul Huda Women's Degree College, Kumbra, Sajla began the project in Jan 2021 during the Covid-induced lockdown, after her parents encouraged her in that. Writing the Quran by hand with a dip pen requires great discipline, including sitting in one particular position throughout the process and ensuring absolute uniformity. Though she paused midway, she resumed the work on Oct 24, 2024, and finally completed it on Aug 2. "At one point, an ink blot ruined the initial few pages, necetitating her to rewrite them from the beginning," her father said. Sajla completed the work in 302 days of writing, with each page taking about four hours. The 604-page manuscript was written on white, light blue, and light green paper, with the Arabic letters in black ink. The finished volume, bound in red and gold, weighs 13.8kg and measures 22 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 5.5 inches in height. A formal launch of the written Quran was held at her alma mater on Saturday. Murris Yaseen Sakhafi Al Azhari from the Markaz Knowledge City in Kerala officially released it in the presence of several scholars and college officials. The family has been receiving requests to exhibit the same. On future preservation of the copy, they maintained that a decision will be taken after discussing with elders and scholars. The family is also considering applying for 'Limca Book of Records'. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
Economic Times
15 hours ago
- Business
- Economic Times
edition 18-Aug-2025 to 24-august-2025
Live Events Top jobs to rise & fall by 2030 RISKY vs SAFE JOBS IDENTIFY THE RED FLAGS How to be financially ready for a job loss TACKLE JOB UNCERTAINTY ET Bureau Good networking skills Enhanced subject expertise Six months' emergency corpus PR specialist (remote job) Reporter for a news channel Independent social media content creator Multiple skills Good networking In the past few months, big names in the information technology and tech industry have been on a job-shedding spree. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) laid off 12,000 jobs in July. Microsoft has let go of 15,000 people so far this year. Intel is set to reduce 15-20% of its workforce, affecting nearly 10,000 employees. Other sectors, such as automotive and manufacturing, are also witnessing a reduction in the last time such uncertainty rippled through the job market in India was in 2022, following the launch of ChatGPT, just as the Covid-induced redundancies seemed to be petering out. This time around, it's a combination of factors, ranging from the threat of US tariffs and global economic flux to the rise of Generative AI and automation, that has had employees on edge.'While uncertainty due to geopolitics and global economic slowdown is leading to cost-cutting, we are also witnessing a correction after excessive hiring during the tech boom in the post-pandemic phase. This correction is being accelerated by the rise in artificial intelligence,' says Devashish Chakravarty, Founder, a job loss assurance company, and author of Get Hired in 30 believe that the layoffs are a deliberate move to keep pace with various changes driven by a combination of strategic, technological, and economic factors. 'Global economic uncertainties have only amplified the urgency for businesses to future-proof their operations. Many organisations are undergoing restructuring to streamline operations and reduce costs. The rise of AI and automation has accelerated this shift,' says Anupama Bhimrajka, Vice-President, Marketing, foundit, a jobs economic uncertainties have amplified the urgency for businesses to future-proof their operations.'Globally, tech and AI jobs are slated to grow the fastest in the next five years, as per a World Economic Forum study.1. Big data specialists2. Fintech and machine learning specialists4. Software and applications developers5. Security management specialists6. Data warehousing specialists7. Autonomous and electric vehicle specialists8. UI & UX designers9. Light truck or delivery services drivers1. Postal service clerks2. Bank tellers and related clerks3. Data entry clerks4. Cashiers and ticket clerks5. Administrative assistants and executive secretaries6. Printing and related trades workers7. Accounting, book-keepin,g and payroll clerks8. Material-recording and stock-keeping clerksSource: World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2025Agrees Neeti Sharma, CEO, TeamLease Digital: 'While most companies are yet to see a commercial upside to the use of AI, they have started thinking about their future organisation structures in terms of learner operations, better alignment to client requirements and highly skilled teams.''Roles in mid-management, support functions, legacy technology operations, and non-core activities face the greatest risk due to automation, operational realignment, and cost-cutting measures.'Before you rush into a panic mode about an impending job crisis, experts reassure that it is only a phase of displacement and transformation. 'While the job market has witnessed a marginal dip in hiring, it continues to show resilience with a 19% year-on-year growth. Projections indicate a further 9% growth in 2025, led by sustained momentum across sectors like IT, BFSI (banking, financial services, insurance), and energy,' says this optimism, many employees are living in fear of an impending job loss following the recent layoffs as it would be a massive financial blow to the entire family, especially in cases where the individual is the sole breadwinner. Take Bengaluru-based Raj Verma, who, at 38, was laid off from his tech job last year. 'Being the only earning member, I struggled for a few months, but eventually managed to create another source of income and am financially secure now,' he you, too, are gripped by uncertainty, read on to know how to navigate this phase. We shall tell you about the jobs that are at risk and those likely to grow, help you identify the red flags to know if you are on thin ice, and ways you can secure your view of the US tariffs, global trade skirmishes, and the slowdown in overseas demand, the sectors that are most exposed to the international markets will be vulnerable to job losses and restructuring. These include IT services, manufacturing, textiles, automotive exports and other export-oriented businesses. 'Within these sectors, roles in mid-management, support functions, legacy technology operations, and non-core activities face the greatest risk due to automation, operational realignment, and cost-cutting measures,' says technology roles, such as manual testing, system maintenance, and basic coding are being realigned due to automation and AI-driven software development tools. With Gen AI tools entering mainstream workflows, basic content creation roles are being replaced or consolidated, while functions that involve routine or repetitive tasks will also become increasingly susceptible. Therefore, entry-level IT, back-office and data entry jobs are likely to dry up.'If consumer spending goes down, retail and hospitality are also likely to face demand shocks, while contractual and gig workers will suffer the highest insecurity,' says 33% year-on-year growth, skills related to artificial intelligence and machine learning have risen the however, that not all jobs are at risk. 'India's domestic services economy remains on an expansionary path, signalling robust job creation. Notably, the green energy sector is stepping into the spotlight as a fast-growing employment generator, while Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are scaling rapidly across the country,' says Bhimrajka.'While much of the world is focused on fears of AI-driven job losses, we're seeing clear signs of reinvention. Our data shows that 50% of India's fastest-growing roles today didn't even exist a decade ago, proof that AI is reshaping work, not erasing it,' says Ruchee Anand, Head, LinkedIn Talent and Learning Solutions, LINKEDIN TALENT AND LEARNING SOLUTIONS, INDIA:'Sectors like technology, media, retail and professional services are evolving rapidly, but the future will favour those who upskill, not stand still.'This means that the jobs becoming redundant due to automation are being replaced by new roles that require a different set of skills and you are employed in a vulnerable industry, it's best to be proactive and look for warning signs that your job is at risk. 'The most telling signs often trace back to broader strategic shifts, be it through technology adoption, changing market dynamics, or evolving business priorities. When a role stops contributing directly to core outcomes or can be easily automated, it becomes vulnerable to rationalisation,' says Bhimrajka. Here are some warning signs you should keep your eyes peeled your salary hikes been delayed or is there a temporary hiring freeze even though you are short-staffed? These may be the first signs that the company is struggling and looking for ways to cut costs. If it comes to axing employees, those in non-core functions may be the first to you been left out of projects and are finding yourself with too much free time? This may mean there is little demand for your skills or you may be considered dispensable. Is your boss avoiding communication or showing reduced interest in your role? During AI adoption phases, managers often distance themselves from positions earmarked for automation. If your company is changing strategy, as is the case with several businesses now, and your skills and performance are not aligned with its objectives, you may soon find yourself on the way a contingency corpus that is equal to 6-12 months' worth of household expenses at all times. It will sustain you if you suddenly find yourself without a your main job, try to monetise skills, hobbies or interests. Identify other sources of income like rent, tuitions or baking that can help you tide over periods of income loss. Don't forget to save and invest as the employer's group health cover, buy an independent medical plan so that there's no gap period, where you and your family are without a health cover, if you were to lose your you fear job insecurity, try to keep your debt via credit card or other loans to a minimum. Do not take fresh loans. If you lose your job, make sure to inform the lender and negotiate a rescheduling of down your discretionary expenses during times of uncertainty and boost your contingency corpus. Take your family into confidence and slash the budget to focus only on your work involves basic skills or repetitive tasks that can be easily replaced by Gen AI tools, or you fail to adapt to the new tools, skills and changes being introduced in the company, prepare to red flag is rapid changes in the organisation structure or top hierarchy, which indicates a shift in strategic direction, and an eventual replacement or staff the company experiences a drop in new business or is finding it difficult to source projects or client orders, it could result in margin pressure and subsequent cost-cutting, potentially leading to you find yourself uncertain about your job's future, proactively managing your career is crucial.'Start by upskilling in areas that have a strong market demand, such as digital technologies, data analytics or AI-related competencies,' says Sharma. This will not only increase your employability but also keep you relevant in your existing job. 'Today, 78% of recruiters prioritise skills over formal degrees, and career paths are becoming more fluid than ever,' says as you prepare for your annual appraisal, make sure you consistently document your contribution and achievements. More importantly, make sure your bosses are aware of the value you bring to the organisation, so that if it comes down to the crunch, you are not the first one to be let off.'Actively build a professional network to be able to access new opportunities when required,' says Chakravarty. This means not only keeping in touch with your former and existing colleagues, but also with external clients and vendors, mentors and industry experts. 'Since I had a good network, I found work from the very next day that I was laid off,' says Arup Choudhury, a Kolkata-based content creator who lost his job in 2023.:'In the current work climate, one should always be prepared for job loss because it can happen to anybody.'2023Content creation & digital marketingFreelancer'Keep your resume current and ready for potential job transitions as readiness can significantly reduce stress during uncertain periods,' says Sharma. Consistently explore other roles and jobs, and apply discreetly for relevant even as you maintain a contingency corpus, try to diversify your sources of income, whether it's through a YouTube channel, tuitions, consultancy (if permitted by your employer), rental income, or any other source. Keep on with your regular investments as well. Not only does this help you reach your goals faster, but it also helps you on a rainy Goa-based Misbah Quadri, it's a way of life: she juggles three different jobs to maximise her potential and increase income streams. 'I know that even if I'm 80, I will be able to use my skills to earn and sustain the lifestyle I want,' says the 35-year-old.'Even if I'm 80 years old, I can earn an income from multiple sources and have the lifestyle I want, which I cannot get with a corporate job.'2020PR executive'The most resilient professionals are those who think beyond just roles; they build identity capital. This means actively cultivating experiences, skills, and a personal brand that holds value regardless of the employer or industry,' advises Bhimrajka.
Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
Can you lose your job to AI? Identify the red flags and here are 5 things you can do to tackle job uncertainty
Top jobs to rise & fall by 2030 RISKY vs SAFE JOBS IDENTIFY THE RED FLAGS How to be financially ready for a job loss TACKLE JOB UNCERTAINTY ET Bureau Good networking skills Enhanced subject expertise Six months' emergency corpus PR specialist (remote job) Reporter for a news channel Independent social media content creator Multiple skills Good networking In the past few months, big names in the information technology and tech industry have been on a job-shedding spree. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) laid off 12,000 jobs in July. Microsoft has let go of 15,000 people so far this year. Intel is set to reduce 15-20% of its workforce, affecting nearly 10,000 employees. Other sectors, such as automotive and manufacturing, are also witnessing a reduction in the last time such uncertainty rippled through the job market in India was in 2022, following the launch of ChatGPT, just as the Covid-induced redundancies seemed to be petering out. This time around, it's a combination of factors, ranging from the threat of US tariffs and global economic flux to the rise of Generative AI and automation, that has had employees on edge.'While uncertainty due to geopolitics and global economic slowdown is leading to cost-cutting, we are also witnessing a correction after excessive hiring during the tech boom in the post-pandemic phase. This correction is being accelerated by the rise in artificial intelligence,' says Devashish Chakravarty, Founder, a job loss assurance company, and author of Get Hired in 30 believe that the layoffs are a deliberate move to keep pace with various changes driven by a combination of strategic, technological, and economic factors. 'Global economic uncertainties have only amplified the urgency for businesses to future-proof their operations. Many organisations are undergoing restructuring to streamline operations and reduce costs. The rise of AI and automation has accelerated this shift,' says Anupama Bhimrajka, Vice-President, Marketing, foundit, a jobs economic uncertainties have amplified the urgency for businesses to future-proof their operations.'Globally, tech and AI jobs are slated to grow the fastest in the next five years, as per a World Economic Forum study.1. Big data specialists2. Fintech and machine learning specialists4. Software and applications developers5. Security management specialists6. Data warehousing specialists7. Autonomous and electric vehicle specialists8. UI & UX designers9. Light truck or delivery services drivers1. Postal service clerks2. Bank tellers and related clerks3. Data entry clerks4. Cashiers and ticket clerks5. Administrative assistants and executive secretaries6. Printing and related trades workers7. Accounting, book-keepin,g and payroll clerks8. Material-recording and stock-keeping clerksSource: World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2025Agrees Neeti Sharma, CEO, TeamLease Digital: 'While most companies are yet to see a commercial upside to the use of AI, they have started thinking about their future organisation structures in terms of learner operations, better alignment to client requirements and highly skilled teams.''Roles in mid-management, support functions, legacy technology operations, and non-core activities face the greatest risk due to automation, operational realignment, and cost-cutting measures.'Before you rush into a panic mode about an impending job crisis, experts reassure that it is only a phase of displacement and transformation. 'While the job market has witnessed a marginal dip in hiring, it continues to show resilience with a 19% year-on-year growth. Projections indicate a further 9% growth in 2025, led by sustained momentum across sectors like IT, BFSI (banking, financial services, insurance), and energy,' says this optimism, many employees are living in fear of an impending job loss following the recent layoffs as it would be a massive financial blow to the entire family, especially in cases where the individual is the sole breadwinner. Take Bengaluru-based Raj Verma, who, at 38, was laid off from his tech job last year. 'Being the only earning member, I struggled for a few months, but eventually managed to create another source of income and am financially secure now,' he you, too, are gripped by uncertainty, read on to know how to navigate this phase. We shall tell you about the jobs that are at risk and those likely to grow, help you identify the red flags to know if you are on thin ice, and ways you can secure your view of the US tariffs, global trade skirmishes, and the slowdown in overseas demand, the sectors that are most exposed to the international markets will be vulnerable to job losses and restructuring. These include IT services, manufacturing, textiles, automotive exports and other export-oriented businesses. 'Within these sectors, roles in mid-management, support functions, legacy technology operations, and non-core activities face the greatest risk due to automation, operational realignment, and cost-cutting measures,' says technology roles, such as manual testing, system maintenance, and basic coding are being realigned due to automation and AI-driven software development tools. With Gen AI tools entering mainstream workflows, basic content creation roles are being replaced or consolidated, while functions that involve routine or repetitive tasks will also become increasingly susceptible. Therefore, entry-level IT, back-office and data entry jobs are likely to dry up.'If consumer spending goes down, retail and hospitality are also likely to face demand shocks, while contractual and gig workers will suffer the highest insecurity,' says 33% year-on-year growth, skills related to artificial intelligence and machine learning have risen the however, that not all jobs are at risk. 'India's domestic services economy remains on an expansionary path, signalling robust job creation. Notably, the green energy sector is stepping into the spotlight as a fast-growing employment generator, while Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are scaling rapidly across the country,' says Bhimrajka.'While much of the world is focused on fears of AI-driven job losses, we're seeing clear signs of reinvention. Our data shows that 50% of India's fastest-growing roles today didn't even exist a decade ago, proof that AI is reshaping work, not erasing it,' says Ruchee Anand, Head, LinkedIn Talent and Learning Solutions, LINKEDIN TALENT AND LEARNING SOLUTIONS, INDIA:'Sectors like technology, media, retail and professional services are evolving rapidly, but the future will favour those who upskill, not stand still.'This means that the jobs becoming redundant due to automation are being replaced by new roles that require a different set of skills and you are employed in a vulnerable industry, it's best to be proactive and look for warning signs that your job is at risk. 'The most telling signs often trace back to broader strategic shifts, be it through technology adoption, changing market dynamics, or evolving business priorities. When a role stops contributing directly to core outcomes or can be easily automated, it becomes vulnerable to rationalisation,' says Bhimrajka. Here are some warning signs you should keep your eyes peeled your salary hikes been delayed or is there a temporary hiring freeze even though you are short-staffed? These may be the first signs that the company is struggling and looking for ways to cut costs. If it comes to axing employees, those in non-core functions may be the first to you been left out of projects and are finding yourself with too much free time? This may mean there is little demand for your skills or you may be considered dispensable. Is your boss avoiding communication or showing reduced interest in your role? During AI adoption phases, managers often distance themselves from positions earmarked for automation. If your company is changing strategy, as is the case with several businesses now, and your skills and performance are not aligned with its objectives, you may soon find yourself on the way a contingency corpus that is equal to 6-12 months' worth of household expenses at all times. It will sustain you if you suddenly find yourself without a your main job, try to monetise skills, hobbies or interests. Identify other sources of income like rent, tuitions or baking that can help you tide over periods of income loss. Don't forget to save and invest as the employer's group health cover, buy an independent medical plan so that there's no gap period, where you and your family are without a health cover, if you were to lose your you fear job insecurity, try to keep your debt via credit card or other loans to a minimum. Do not take fresh loans. If you lose your job, make sure to inform the lender and negotiate a rescheduling of down your discretionary expenses during times of uncertainty and boost your contingency corpus. Take your family into confidence and slash the budget to focus only on your work involves basic skills or repetitive tasks that can be easily replaced by Gen AI tools, or you fail to adapt to the new tools, skills and changes being introduced in the company, prepare to red flag is rapid changes in the organisation structure or top hierarchy, which indicates a shift in strategic direction, and an eventual replacement or staff the company experiences a drop in new business or is finding it difficult to source projects or client orders, it could result in margin pressure and subsequent cost-cutting, potentially leading to you find yourself uncertain about your job's future, proactively managing your career is crucial.'Start by upskilling in areas that have a strong market demand, such as digital technologies, data analytics or AI-related competencies,' says Sharma. This will not only increase your employability but also keep you relevant in your existing job. 'Today, 78% of recruiters prioritise skills over formal degrees, and career paths are becoming more fluid than ever,' says as you prepare for your annual appraisal, make sure you consistently document your contribution and achievements. More importantly, make sure your bosses are aware of the value you bring to the organisation, so that if it comes down to the crunch, you are not the first one to be let off.'Actively build a professional network to be able to access new opportunities when required,' says Chakravarty. This means not only keeping in touch with your former and existing colleagues, but also with external clients and vendors, mentors and industry experts. 'Since I had a good network, I found work from the very next day that I was laid off,' says Arup Choudhury, a Kolkata-based content creator who lost his job in 2023.:'In the current work climate, one should always be prepared for job loss because it can happen to anybody.'2023Content creation & digital marketingFreelancer'Keep your resume current and ready for potential job transitions as readiness can significantly reduce stress during uncertain periods,' says Sharma. Consistently explore other roles and jobs, and apply discreetly for relevant even as you maintain a contingency corpus, try to diversify your sources of income, whether it's through a YouTube channel, tuitions, consultancy (if permitted by your employer), rental income, or any other source. Keep on with your regular investments as well. Not only does this help you reach your goals faster, but it also helps you on a rainy Goa-based Misbah Quadri, it's a way of life: she juggles three different jobs to maximise her potential and increase income streams. 'I know that even if I'm 80, I will be able to use my skills to earn and sustain the lifestyle I want,' says the 35-year-old.'Even if I'm 80 years old, I can earn an income from multiple sources and have the lifestyle I want, which I cannot get with a corporate job.'2020PR executive'The most resilient professionals are those who think beyond just roles; they build identity capital. This means actively cultivating experiences, skills, and a personal brand that holds value regardless of the employer or industry,' advises Bhimrajka.
Time Out
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
It's official: The infamous Melbourne Star will spin again in 2026
It's been a sad four years since Melbourne's iconic (and often much-maligned) ferris wheel ground to a Covid-induced halt. Now, the owners of the Melbourne Star have officially confirmed that the infamous attraction is opening up again – and is due to start spinning in Docklands (hopefully) by the end of 2026. The 120-metre tall wheel has been standing tragically still since it shut up shop in the September of 2021, with many people assuming this was the end for the Melbourne Star, which had been in operation for 13 years. But now, in excellent news for ferris wheel enthusiasts, the sky-high attraction is coming back, an exact opening date is yet to be announced, the team has confirmed a few key details about the Melbourne Star's renaissance. It's set to be managed by Skyline Attractions (the same people behind Skyline Melbourne and the St Kilda ferris wheel) in partnership with technology solutions agency the Robu Group and US-based carnival and entertainment company Ray Cammack Shows. The relaunch of the observation wheel has been described by Lord Mayor Nick Reece as 'a huge moment for Melbourne and a vote of confidence in the future of Docklands,' – with the City of Melbourne supporting the project. Further details – including ticketing prices and related activations are yet to be announced, but based on what we've seen from the Skyline Attractions team at their other venues, we're expecting big things. According to the organisers, visitor numbers in the first year are estimated at a quarter of a million. In the meantime, you'll just have to get your spinning fix at Skyline, which is located by the Yarra River.
Time of India
31-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
'Umeed on Wheels': Blue bus rolls into Delhi's slums, bringing digital learning and a ray of hope to children left behind
N EW DELHI: When the rain started on Tuesday, some children in the Sriniwaspuri jhuggi ran out of their homes. In their soaking wet skirts and shirts, they all ran towards a blue bus. To them, this is the bus of hope. It is called Umeed on Wheels. The bus has no passenger seats, nor a driver at the wheel. What it has is 16 computers. The flickering blue light of the screens is what draws the children of the JJ cluster to the bus. The bus is like an alternative universe - a school classroom that is more fun, more accessible and digital. In it, the children are taught typing and sketching on MS Paint. Some have been trained in data entry. Umeed on Wheels is where the kids would rather be when it's pouring down in sheets. Inside the bus, the air is of quiet interest. You Can Also Check: Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi In a way, this bus is the answer to the Covid-induced deprivation that children of Delhi's many jhuggis faced when classes went online. It was possible only for richer, more privileged children to study on digital screens to which they had exclusive access. For 13-year-old Tejaswi (name changed), this was never an option. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is this legal? Access all TV channels without a subscription! Techno Mag Learn More Undo "It was hard during Covid. I had to share one phone with two siblings. My father, who is a driver, couldn't always manage the recharges," she said. "This is the first time I'm learning properly. I wish we had this back then." The bus-turned-digital classroom was launched by SOS Children's Villages India. It was flagged off on Tuesday after two months of trials in the neighbourhood. Now, 48 children arrive at its door in three staggered shifts. The reason why the NGO started this bus is related to a hard question it asked: how many children in Delhi are locked out of the digital world? The answer wasn't encouraging. A Delhi govt survey in 2021 found that nearly 45% of govt school students had no access to smartphones or a reliable internet connection. The ASER 2021 urban survey showed that 60% children in the city had access to smartphones at home, and just 37% could attend online classes regularly. In 2023, a National Skill Development Corporation report showed that only one in three youths had enrolled in skill programs that had any kind of digital literacy component. The gap isn't just about lack of access to devices. It is also about where the kids live. "The divide isn't evenly spread," said Sumant Kar, CEO of SOS Children's Villages India. "Urban slums and JJ clusters are the worst hit. These are places such as Sarai Kale Khan, Jahangirpuri, Seelampur, Madanpur Khadar, Sangam Vihar, Dakshinpuri, Narela, and Sriniwaspuri. That's why we started here," he said. The bus, he said, is a low-barrier, high-impact solution. It takes digital education to the heart of underserved communities, does not need long commutes, nor waitlists. Just a run down the lane, even if it rains. Inside the bus are trained educators who focus on digital skills, online safety, and basic life skills such as communication and confidence-building. The curriculum is age-appropriate, with interactive content, e-books and lessons aligned to what the children are already learning in school. Twelve-year-old Uttam (name changed) said he found the bus-school more helpful than his real school. "I don't understand a lot there. There's not enough time, and sometimes the teacher is not even there," he said. "Here, ma'am explains slowly. I will learn more." This bus will later roll into other localities, much like a travelling circus, but of digital learning. The NGO plans to deploy more buses. In its first year, it hopes to reach at least 500 children. For Tejaswi and Uttam, it's about finally having a shot at digital learning, one click at a time, sitting in a bus.
