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Time of India
a day ago
- General
- Time of India
CBSE to introduce open-book exams for Class 9 from 2026-27 under NEP guidelines
CBSE introduces open-book assessments in Class 9 aligned with NCFSE 2023. (AI Image) NEW DELHI: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has approved the implementation of open-book assessments for Class 9 students starting from the 2026-27 academic session. The decision was taken following the results of a pilot study conducted to evaluate the feasibility and acceptance of such a model in schools. According to media reports, the CBSE Governing Body, the board's highest decision-making authority, approved the proposal at a meeting held in June. The initiative is aligned with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, which is based on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Framework and structure of the assessment As per the approved plan, open-book exams will be integrated into internal assessments conducted by schools for Class 9. These assessments will be part of the three pen-paper evaluations carried out in each academic term. The core subjects included in this format will be language, mathematics, science, and social science. While the framework will be recommended to schools, its implementation will not be mandatory. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Lana Green Is Retiring - Her Final Jewelry Pieces Are 80% Off Artisan Weekly Read More Undo It will instead serve as a model to guide schools that choose to adopt this mode of assessment. Schools will be provided with guidelines on how to conduct open-book exams effectively. Objective and basis for the move The CBSE's move is based on recommendations outlined in the NCFSE, which emphasises the need to move away from rote memorisation and towards competency-based learning. Open-book assessments are described in the framework as a method to test students' ability to interpret, apply, and analyse information rather than merely recall facts. The open-book format allows students to refer to resources such as textbooks, class notes, and library materials while attempting questions. This model is intended to assess their capacity to use available information in varying contexts, which corresponds with the core principles of the NEP 2020. Pilot study and past attempts In December 2023, the CBSE had approved a pilot study to test open-book assessments across Classes 9 to 12. The pilot was designed to evaluate various factors including the time taken to complete the tests and the perceptions of stakeholders such as students, teachers, and school administrators. According to media reports, the study indicated support from teachers for the introduction of open-book formats. This is not the first instance where CBSE has explored open-book assessments. In 2014, the board introduced an Open Text Based Assessment (OTBA) for Class 9 in subjects like Hindi, English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Science. It was also extended to Class 11 for subjects including Economics, Biology, and Geography. In that format, students received reference material four months before the final examination. However, the OTBA was discontinued in the 2017-18 academic session, as it was found not to have significantly enhanced students' critical thinking skills. Implementation and future direction The upcoming framework will aim to build higher-order thinking skills in students and will require schools to be equipped with appropriate capacity and training. The CBSE plans to assist schools by providing structured guidance on how to conduct these assessments as part of their internal evaluation system. The initiative aims to create a more application-based assessment model in alignment with the broader goals of the NEP 2020 and the NCFSE 2023. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Time of India
a day ago
- Climate
- Time of India
Amid rain, Centre alerts state of possible drought
T'puram: Even as Kerala continues to witness heavy monsoon showers, the Centre has asked the state to stay alert to the possibility of localised drought-like conditions during the ongoing southwest monsoon season. The advisory came during a national-level review chaired by the Union agriculture secretary, which noted that despite above-normal rainfall forecasts, states like Kerala must brace for dry spells and emerging stress zones. These details are part of the minutes of the meeting shared by the Centre with state govts, including Kerala, on July 9, and accessed by TOI. The India meteorological department (IMD) informed the meeting that the 2025 southwest monsoon arrived early over Kerala on May 24 and quickly progressed across peninsular and northeast India. Seasonal rainfall is forecast to be 106% of the long period average (LPA), suggesting an above-normal monsoon overall. However, the IMD warned that rainfall distribution will remain uneven, with pockets of deficit possible even in high-rainfall states, due to the country's vast geographical variations. In this context, the Centre has directed all states, including Kerala, to monitor for localised droughts or dry spells, even if the larger monsoon picture appears favourable. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Lana Green Is Retiring - Her Final Jewelry Pieces Are 80% Off Artisan Weekly Read More Undo States have been asked to capture rainfall data through automatic rain gauges, ensure the availability of short-duration, climate-resilient seed varieties, and hold regular crop weather watch group (CWWG) meetings to track evolving weather patterns and crop stress. Officials also underlined the need to activate crisis management plans (CMPs) promptly in response to emerging conditions, and to update these plans to include scenarios such as pest attacks, which could intensify during weather fluctuations. In the event of a pest outbreak, the states were instructed to conduct rapid field-level assessments and to utilise the national pest surveillance system (NPSS) mobile application for real-time crop data. Awareness among farmers about the NPSS app is also to be increased, and the Centre has suggested making it accessible in all official languages. Kerala, like other states, has been advised to make full use of the integrated drought monitoring portal of the Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre (MNCFC), especially in the absence of a dedicated state-level portal. The Centre also emphasised the importance of disseminating agromet services in an area-specific and farmer-oriented manner. Agencies like ICAR-CRIDA were asked to ensure that technologies related to natural resource management and intercropping systems are demonstrated through targeted training and interaction with farmers, especially in districts identified as vulnerable. Separate guidelines are to be issued for such demonstrations. Low-cost dissemination methods, such as WhatsApp groups, have been suggested to improve outreach. On the livestock front, the department of animal husbandry and dairying (DAHD) highlighted a significant gap between demand and supply of dry fodder, green fodder, and concentrates across the country. Kerala has been advised, along with other states, to procure fodder from surplus regions, promote pre-monsoon sowing of mixed fodder crops, and consider inclusion of fodder seeds under the national seed reserve, if not already done. "Even though the rainfall during SWM-2025 is above normal and has already covered the entire country, the states should look for localised drought/dry spell and take corrective steps to minimise distress to farmers," the minutes stated. 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. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Raksha Bandhan wishes , messages and quotes !
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
KITE launches AI training for Lakshadweep teachers
T'puram: Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE), the technology arm of general education department, govt of Kerala, initiated an online artificial intelligence (AI) training programme for teachers across the nine islands of the Lakshadweep archipelago. The training module is an updated version of the AI programme previously conducted by KITE for 80,000 teachers in Kerala. It utilizes the same online training platform that was made available to the public under the name 'AI Essentials'. The first phase of this training involves all 110 post graduate teachers, who are divided into five batches. The programme will be completed in one month, with one mentor assigned to every 20 teachers. The course content is structured into five distinct sections. The first section, 'AI at Your Fingertips', introduces practical applications of AI while covering its history, development and future possibilities. The second section, 'AI Art Gallery', focuses on using AI to create and enhance images, design logos and posters and even build 3D models. The third section, 'Mastering AI', offers hands-on training in prompt engineering and the use of AI for reading and data analysis. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Lana Green Is Retiring - Her Final Jewelry Pieces Are 80% Off Artisan Weekly Read More Undo The fourth section, 'AI in Everyday Life', provides practical training on how to use AI in areas such as music, coding, video production and learning. The final section concludes the training by providing an understanding of how to use AI responsibly and familiarizing participants with the technical terms used in the field. K Anvar Sadath, CEO of KITE, stated that the organization will provide training to all Lakshadweep teachers, including in the field of robotics. Robotics was incorporated into the revised Class X ICT textbooks, which are used since the islands follow the Kerala curriculum. To facilitate this, KITE will also provide robotics kits to schools in Lakshadweep. 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. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Raksha Bandhan wishes , messages and quotes !
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Aries, Weekly Horoscope, August 10 to August 16, 2025: Expect increased visibility and opportunities to resolve issues
Aries natives, this week begins on a measured note and crescendos into productive momentum. Early in the week, money matters feel even-keeled: income has a way of matching outgo, and practical choices keep you steady. Some travel or a big plan may be delayed, which initially frustrates you but ultimately saves time and resources. A helpful classmate, colleague, or peer steps in with support, and if you're juggling a home or property decision, postponement proves wise. Midweek, mood and confidence can dip. You may feel you're pushing through molasses while expenses creep up and patience thins. Family dynamics, especially with siblings or a spouse, can get prickly if you react quickly. This isn't the time for high-risk investments or impulsive purchases; keep routines simple and avoid debates that stray into blame. The turning point arrives by Thursday: focus returns, and the satisfaction of showing up consistently begins to pay. Students regain momentum; professionals deliver clean work that earns nods from senior figures. Cooperation replaces friction at home, and if you're single, meaningful introductions may come through neighbours or relatives. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Lana Green Is Retiring - Her Final Jewelry Pieces Are 80% Off Artisan Weekly Read More Undo As the week draws to a close, your profile rises. Friday brings honour, visibility, and smoother client or order flow for business owners, though you'll still want to double-check assumptions before signing. Saturday favours accumulation and sensible investment; visitors or family gatherings lift spirits, and you'll find it easier to mend fences with rivals or resolve lingering administrative issues. Overall, you finish the week with courage and a clearer path, ready to channel rising energy into next week's goals. Love and Relationships: The opening days support warmth and repair. If you've felt distant, small gestures, listening without interrupting, sharing a concern honestly, or planning a simple meal together, do more than grand declarations. Singles may spot a low-key spark close to home, in the neighbourhood, or via family connections. Midweek asks for gentleness. Confidence wobbles and budget pressures can spill into tone; avoid criticism loops. If siblings or extended family stir the pot, protect your peace and hold boundaries kindly. From Thursday, tenderness returns. You're more cooperative, and your partner mirrors that energy. Unattached Aries might receive a practical but promising proposal or an invitation that comes through relatives. The weekend is designed for connection. Friday is ideal for a celebratory date, a family visit that smooths history, or a thoughtful message that closes a gap. Saturday adds supportive company: guests, cousins, or old friends may gather, and you're the glue keeping spirits high. Keep conversations future-facing, and romance deepens through trust and reliability, not drama. Education and Career: Students start with a quiet advantage: a friend or classmate offers exactly the help you need, so share notes and form a focused study pod. Tuesday and Wednesday can feel mentally scattered; curb distractions and stay away from time-wasting rabbit holes. From Thursday onward, comprehension sharpens. It's an excellent window for dense chapters, mock tests, or practical labs that benefit from concentration. Professionals move from steady to strong. Early in the week, tasks progress, though travel or external approvals may stall. Avoid business journeys that promise much but deliver little. Thursday reboots momentum: business owners act with confidence and see better conversions; those in service notice genuine appreciation from superiors. On Friday, visibility increases, leverage it with crisp updates and conservative promises you can exceed. Saturday is perfect for financial housekeeping, project closure checklists, and clearing interpersonal static with colleagues or counterparties. Money and Finance: Expect a tidy opening where cash flow balances out. Resist 'filler' spending just to reward yourself, Tuesday/Wednesday are the most leak-prone days for the budget, and speculative plays don't favour you then. Hold money close; skip new vehicle or property moves for now. By Thursday, the logic returns: map expenses, schedule payments, and compare investment options without rushing. Friday invites calculated optimism. If you understand a speculative position deeply and it fits your risk tolerance, a small, structured exposure could work; otherwise, prefer long-term vehicles. Saturday is best for accumulation: move surplus to savings, top up a fund, or automate contributions. Hosting guests may nudge spending, but some of those interactions open doors or strengthen alliances that pay back later. Health and Well-being: Energy fluctuates. The early week is fine physically, but by Tuesday you may notice stress in digestion or headaches from erratic meals. Keep food clean and regular; hydrate, and avoid late-night scrolling that steals rest. Midweek is your sensitivity window, listen to your body, cancel what can wait, and protect your sleep. From Thursday, vitality picks up. The blend of productivity and supportive company elevates mood, and light exercise feels refreshing rather than draining. Friday's recognition lifts spirits; celebrate sensibly. Saturday favours restorative routines: a calm morning walk, stretching, or a tech-lite afternoon with family. Keep tempers cool and caffeine moderate, and you'll close the week balanced and ready. Discover everything about astrology at Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces . Read your detailed Horoscope Today and Horoscope Tomorrow here.
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Udaipur to host Vedanta Zinc City half marathon on Sept 21
Udaipur: Hindustan Zinc Limited will host the second Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon on September 21 in Udaipur. Certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), this globally recognised event invites runners nationwide to experience Udaipur's scenic beauty, featuring Fateh Sagar Lake and the Aravali Hills. Early bird registration, offering a 30 percent discount, is open until July 31 at Following last year's success, the marathon promotes health, fitness, and community spirit. It includes a 21km half marathon, 10km cool run, 5km dream run, and a special 'Race With Champions' for specially-abled children, emphasising inclusivity. Hindustan Zinc is engaging corporates, NGOs, and running groups to boost participation and foster partnerships. Recognised as India's Most Beautiful Marathon, the route takes runners through Udaipur's breathtaking landscape, from the tranquil expanse of Fateh Sagar Lake to the majestic Aravali ranges. Participants will experience the city's rich heritage and natural beauty at every step, making this marathon a journey through one of India's most picturesque destinations. To enhance the experience for participants, special arrangements by Anybody Can Run will be in place. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Lana Green Is Retiring - Her Final Jewelry Pieces Are 80% Off Artisan Weekly Read More Undo Hydration stations will be strategically located along the route, providing essential refreshments. Additionally, medical stations and resting spots will be available, staffed by experienced physiotherapists and doctors. Hindustan Zinc CEO Arun Misra stated, "The Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon embodies our commitment to building healthier communities and creating opportunities that inspire collective progress. After an overwhelming response last year, we are thrilled to bring back India's Most Beautiful Marathon with an even greater vision for inclusivity and community engagement. We look forward to welcoming runners on September 21 from all walks of life to experience Udaipur's unique charm and spirit. " Udaipur, known as the Zinc City with a 2,500-year zinc mining legacy, hosts this event as part of a series, followed by the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon in October and the Vedanta Pink City Half Marathon in Jaipur this December.
