Latest news with #MaharajaSayajiraoUniversityofBaroda
Indian Express
22-05-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
MSU receives 22,716 applications under GCAS
Even as the filing applications under the Gujarat Common Admission Services (GCAS) has now completed, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) Thursday said it has received 22,716 applications for its undergraduate (UG) programmes for 2025–26, with the Faculty of Commerce receiving over 10,000 applications. MSU in a statement said, 'This year marks a transformative shift in the admission process, with MSU fully embracing the GCAS — an integrated and transparent platform launched by the Government of Gujarat. The initiative not only made the admission process more efficient but also allowed students from across the state to seamlessly explore their academic aspirations. The registration window closed on May 21, 2025…' Last year, as GCAS was implemented across the state, protests erupted at MSU Baroda with fears that the quota of local students might be reduced to accommodate outside students, particularly in the commerce stream, triggered by the record cut off of the first provisional merit list. While the Faculty of Commerce received over 10,000 applications, the Faculty of Science and Faculty of Arts received 6,116 and 2,484 applications respectively. Prof. Hitesh D Raviya, OSD (Public Relations and Communication) said, 'All the deans are ready and have meticulously planned for the upcoming admission phases. To strengthen our academic environment, temporary assistant professors have been given an extension till June 12, 2025…'
Time of India
18-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Behind the glitz: The hidden burden of baraat light carriers
Vadodara: For decades, they've lit up the vibrant spectacle of big fat Indian weddings. As the groom arrives in style and loved ones dance to the beat of traditional music, it's the sparkling display of decorative umbrella lights that adds grandeur to the baraat — a quintessential part of . Tired of too many ads? go ad free now A study conducted by Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) has uncovered the serious physical toll endured by the men who carry these decorative umbrella lights. Often overlooked, these workers suffer from persistent and , silently bearing the burden of a job that brings joy to others. The research, conducted by MSc student Vidhi Chokshi under the guidance of Dr Urvashi Mishra, assistant professor in the department of Family and Community Resource Management, Faculty of Family and Community Sciences, focused on 120 workers from urban and semi-urban areas of Vadodara. Using a mixed-methods approach, the team combined standardised body and hand discomfort scales with mechanical injury checklists and in-depth interviews to document the lived experiences of these workers. Most of the umbrella light carriers surveyed were middle-aged, with limited formal education and income, and were found to suffer from frequent discomfort in the mid-back, lower back, arms, forearms, knees, legs, and feet. The level of discomfort often depended on the type of umbrella light carried — pole-mounted models caused less strain, while overhead models led to significant upper body distress. "In addition to musculoskeletal issues, many workers reported mechanical injuries like skin pinching, electric shocks, and eye irritation," the study stated. "Long periods of static posture and continuous exposure to high-intensity lights led to moderate but persistent physical irritation." Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The study also found a direct correlation between the distance walked or time spent carrying the lights and the level of physiological fatigue and exhaustion experienced. Despite the clear health hazards, most workers continue in this physically demanding job out of economic necessity. "Interviews revealed a pressing demand for lighter, , better working conditions, and supportive policies that acknowledge the occupational hazards they face," the study emphasized. The researchers are now urging event organizers and authorities to take action. "Holding decorative umbrella lights is a physically taxing, high-risk occupation. Immediate ergonomic interventions, regular health check-ups, and comprehensive occupational safety measures are urgently needed," said Dr. Mishra. She added, "through this study, we hope to shine a light on the invisible labour behind our celebrations. These workers belong to the informal sector, and their health, safety, and dignity deserve policy-level protection." The researchers have also suggested a range of coping strategies to these workers, including taking frequent rest breaks, proper warm-up exercises, and using protective gear.
India Today
07-05-2025
- Politics
- India Today
Colonel Courageous: Who is Sophia Qureshi, the army officer shining at Op Sindoor briefing?
It made for a picture worth more than any words and summed up what India stood for. At the Operation Sindoor press briefing in New Delhi on May 7, joining forces with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri were two bright women military officers—Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. An alumni of the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSUB), Col. Qureshi, who is an officer from the Indian Army's Corps of Signals, belongs to a family with a long military background. Her grandfather served in the army while she is married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi of the Mechanised Infantry. Col. Qureshi, who is from Vadodara, did her MSc in Biochemistry from MSUB in 1997 and joined the Indian Army in 1999. In 2006, she served with the United Nations Peacekeeping Operation in Congo as a military observer. She monitored ceasefires and supported humanitarian efforts, gaining invaluable experience in conflict resolution and international cooperation. Since 2010, Col. Qureshi has been associated with the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping Operations in New Delhi. She has also served in counterinsurgency postings across India, which honed her skills in high-pressure environments. Qureshi's most celebrated achievement came in March 2016 when she became the first woman officer to lead a 40-member Indian Army contingent at Exercise Force 18, the largest foreign military exercise hosted by India, held in Pune. This multinational exercise had participation from 18 ASEAN Plus countries, including the United States, China, Russia, Japan and South Korea, the focus being on Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs) and Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA). As the only woman contingent commander among the participating nations, Col. Qureshi's leadership was pivotal in training troops and fostering interoperability. Commenting on her leadership at the time, then Lieutenant General Bipin Rawat had stressed that Qureshi's leadership qualities and commitment were well earned, not mere tokenism. 'In the Army, we believe in equal opportunities and equal responsibilities. Sophia Qureshi embodies leadership qualities that transcend gender barriers,' he had said. As Prof. Hitesh D. Raviya, officer on special duty (public relations and communication) at MSUB, said: 'Sophia Qureshi's presence at the [university] department earlier and her leadership today on the battlefield are part of the same continuum of excellence. Col. Sophia Qureshi stands as a beacon of inspiration for every student of MSU Baroda.' Col. Qureshi's brother Mohammad Sanjay Qureshi described her May 7 presser as the family's proudest moment. 'Nothing greater than a member of our family briefing the nation [about Operation Sindoor],' he said. Recalling his sister's courageous streak since childhood, Sanjay added: 'She suffered fractures while learning to cycle, but nothing could deter her.' Col. Qureshi has become an icon for young Indians. She actively encourages young women to join the army, delivering lectures in schools and colleges, including under Operation Sadhbhavna in the Kashmir Valley, to inspire girls to pursue military careers. Her message is clear: 'Join the Army. Work hard for the country and make everyone proud.' In January this year, Col. Qureshi visited her alma mater—the Department of Biochemistry at MSUB, where she was warmly welcomed by the faculty and former teachers. Her visit was an inspiring moment for students and staff. While Col. Qureshi is currently posted in Uttar Pradesh, her brother and father Taj Mohammad Qureshi live in Tandalja area of Vadodara, which has over the past decade become a deeply polarised city. However, on May 7, representing the Indian Army and leading the Operation Sindoor media briefing with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, Col. Qureshi broke several stereotypes, gender norms and reinforced the idea of India as a country united in its diversity. Subscribe to India Today Magazine
