News for 'social sciences'

Landmark Study Assesses Reproducibility in Social Sciences

Landmark Study Assesses Reproducibility in Social Sciences

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

A seven-year study analysing thousands of social science research papers reveals insights into the reproducibility and robustness of findings in the field.

Landmark Study Assesses Reproducibility in Social and Behavioural Science Research

Landmark Study Assesses Reproducibility in Social and Behavioural Science Research

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

A major US study has assessed the reproducibility of research papers in the social sciences, revealing insights into the credibility of findings and highlighting challenges in replicating results.

RSS links in new NCERT political science textbook panel: What will change?

RSS links in new NCERT political science textbook panel: What will change?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The National Council of Educational Research and Training has reconstituted the Textbook Development Team for class 11 and 12 political science with a mandate to integrate cultural rootedness, Indian knowledge systems and inclusion, with at least four of the members having direct or indirect links with the RSS.

Doctoral fellowships for social science

Doctoral fellowships for social science

Rediff.com30 Jun 2006

Indian Council of Social Science Research, Delhi, invites applications for the Doctoral Fellowships for 2006- 2007.

Kerala teacher suspended over Savarkar 'freedom fighter' quiz question

Kerala teacher suspended over Savarkar 'freedom fighter' quiz question

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

A school teacher in Kerala has been suspended after a controversial question in a Social Science Club Freedom Quiz 2026 questionnaire identified V D Savarkar as the freedom fighter who received the maximum punishment from the British. The incident in Kasaragod district sparked widespread protests and criticism from Left organisations, leading to an inquiry and disciplinary action.

JNUSU holds Umar Khalid book discussion despite venue cancellation

JNUSU holds Umar Khalid book discussion despite venue cancellation

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) proceeded with a discussion on former student Umar Khalid's book, "Fractured Communities: Adivasi Histories and the Politics of Power," despite the university cancelling the original venue booking. The event, planned to observe Indigenous Peoples' Day, was held outside an academic building after the JNUSU condemned the university's "arbitrary" decision.

India's academic freedom severely restricted, claims report

India's academic freedom severely restricted, claims report

Rediff.com5 days ago

A report by Scholars at Risk, 'Free to Think 2026', states that academic freedom in India is "severely restricted" due to increasing government influence over higher education, university governance, and curbs on student expression. India is listed among six countries in this category, with its Academic Freedom Index score sharply declining. The report cites instances of faculty dismissals, event cancellations, and pressure on student protests, highlighting the alleged use of the UGC as a vehicle for state influence.

Social Media Sensation Niharika NM Makes Bollywood Debut

Social Media Sensation Niharika NM Makes Bollywood Debut

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Social media sensation Niharika NM is poised to make a Bollywood debut in Bhai Tera Star Hai alongside Raghav Juyal.

'His calendar full': TISS replaces CJI as chief guest

'His calendar full': TISS replaces CJI as chief guest

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) has announced Dr C S Pramesh, director of Tata Memorial Hospital, as the new chief guest for its 86th Convocation on August 22, replacing Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant, who was unavailable due to a full calendar.

NCERT revises Class 8 textbook again; tweaks Partition, drops Hitler content

NCERT revises Class 8 textbook again; tweaks Partition, drops Hitler content

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The NCERT Class 8 social science textbook has undergone significant revisions, including a tweaked narrative on the 1947 Partition, the inclusion of VD Savarkar's demand for Swaraj, and the removal of references to Adolf Hitler and Nazi ideology. These changes follow a Supreme Court intervention regarding controversial content on the judiciary.

JNU cancels nod for discussion on Umar Khalid's book

JNU cancels nod for discussion on Umar Khalid's book

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) cancelled permission for a discussion on a book authored by its former student Umar Khalid, currently jailed in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case, citing 'non-disclosure of full facts' about the event. The JNUSU condemned the decision as 'arbitrary and authoritarian', vowing to proceed with the discussion at an alternative venue.

Amid NEET outrage, Odisha medical PG exam paper shared on social media

Amid NEET outrage, Odisha medical PG exam paper shared on social media

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

A question paper for the All Odisha Medical PG Examination was allegedly shared on social media platforms, specifically WhatsApp groups, while the exam was underway. This incident, which occurred during the General Surgery paper for the 2023-26 batch, has prompted an internal investigation by the Odisha University of Health Sciences, even as officials deny it was a "leak" as the paper emerged during the test.

How Brainwave Synchrony Can Boost Social Connections

How Brainwave Synchrony Can Boost Social Connections

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Researchers have found that brainwave synchrony between individuals can be used to guide and improve social interactions, potentially "engineering" social connectedness. Studies involving thousands of participants, including collaborations with musicians and artists, demonstrated that being "on the same wavelength" is linked to healthy social relationships and can be boosted through interventions. This phenomenon, termed 'social synchrony', aligns brain, body, and language rhythms, playing a crucial role in social cohesion and learning.

Himalayan disasters: Climate change is not the only factor

Himalayan disasters: Climate change is not the only factor

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

A recent study by scientists indicates that the Hindu Kush-Himalaya region is experiencing increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events due to climate change, including rapid glacial melting and changing rainfall patterns. However, the research also cautions against solely blaming climate change, highlighting that human factors like population growth, commercial activities, and non-enforcement of regulations contribute significantly to the vulnerability and impact of these disasters. The study points out that many devastating floods originate from small glaciers and rain-fed streams, exacerbated by encroachment on unstable slopes and floodplains.

BRICS Nations Endorse India's Sports Technology And Goods Conclave Initiatives

BRICS Nations Endorse India's Sports Technology And Goods Conclave Initiatives

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The BRICS New Delhi Declaration has endorsed India's proposals for a Working Group on Sports Technology and a Sports Goods Manufacturing Conclave, aiming to enhance cooperation and innovation among member nations in the sports sector.

After Class 8 row, new NCERT Class 9 textbook hails judiciary

After Class 8 row, new NCERT Class 9 textbook hails judiciary

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

A new Class 9 NCERT textbook describes the judiciary as an "impartial and independent institution" that safeguards citizens' rights and upholds the Constitution, contrasting with a previous Class 8 textbook that sparked controversy over its depiction of judicial corruption. The new textbook was prepared before the Class 8 controversy erupted.

Don't Fall For NEET-PG Delay Rumours! Board Issues Clarification

Don't Fall For NEET-PG Delay Rumours! Board Issues Clarification

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

With NEET-PG 2026 scheduled for August 30, online postponement rumours are causing chaos. The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) slammed social media users spreading fake news, warning that circulating misleading exam updates could trigger strict legal action. They advised candidates to trust official announcements only.

BRICS Summit Pushes For Safe And Inclusive AI Development

BRICS Summit Pushes For Safe And Inclusive AI Development

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

BRICS leaders, in their New Delhi Declaration 2026, have called for wider access to Artificial Intelligence resources and stronger international cooperation to ensure the technology is safe, secure, inclusive, and reliable. The declaration outlines a broad technology agenda covering AI, cybersecurity, digital public infrastructure, telecom, quantum technologies, and advanced manufacturing, committing to implement the grouping's statement on 'Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence'.

Controversial SIR included in NCERT's Class 9 textbook

Controversial SIR included in NCERT's Class 9 textbook

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The NCERT's Class 9 Social Science textbook now includes the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, explaining its purpose to ensure accurate voter lists. The textbook also commends the Election Commission of India (ECI) for conducting impartial polls despite challenges, highlighting the scale and autonomy of India's electoral process.

AIIMS Jammu set to become India's first hospital to get CISF cover

AIIMS Jammu set to become India's first hospital to get CISF cover

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

AIIMS Jammu is poised to become the first hospital in India to receive armed security from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) due to its strategic location near the India-Pakistan international border. This move marks a significant shift in security policy for healthcare facilities, which the Ministry of Home Affairs had previously resisted. The CISF is also slated for deployment at Kolkata Metro and Donyi Polo Airport.

SC dismisses NEET-PG re-exam PIL, slaps Rs 25K fine on advocate

SC dismisses NEET-PG re-exam PIL, slaps Rs 25K fine on advocate

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a re-conduct of the NEET-PG 2026 exam, imposing a cost on the petitioner and criticising the advocate for misusing the legal process and soliciting cases on social media. The court noted that the petitioners were not affected by the exam disruption they cited.

Student suicide: IIT-B apologises, suspends dean; director to stay

Student suicide: IIT-B apologises, suspends dean; director to stay

Rediff.com3 hours ago

IIT Bombay has removed Suryanarayana Doolla, Dean of Administrative Affairs, from his post and issued a public apology following the death by suicide of 22-year-old student Sahil Wakode, who his parents allege faced caste-based discrimination.

NCERT to restore 'Dancing Girl' image in school textbook after criticism

NCERT to restore 'Dancing Girl' image in school textbook after criticism

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has altered the iconic 'Dancing Girl' figurine from Mohenjo-daro in its new Class 9 arts textbook, covering its bare torso with shading. This change has drawn criticism for misrepresenting the original artefact and sparking a debate on what is considered 'age-appropriate' in educational materials.

Top AI Researcher Resigns From Anthropic, Alleges Reckless Race To Superintelligence

Top AI Researcher Resigns From Anthropic, Alleges Reckless Race To Superintelligence

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Jacob Coxon, an AI researcher, resigned from Anthropic, accusing leading tech firms like OpenAI and Anthropic of irresponsibly racing towards superintelligence without adequate safeguards. He warned of existential dangers, a sentiment echoed by Anthropic's Evan Hubinger, who admitted the company lacks a plan for superintelligence alignment.

Top 9 social science courses you can consider

Top 9 social science courses you can consider

Rediff.com1 Dec 2011

Study aspects of social formation, structure and form of society through courses ranging from diplomas in transportation to craft design. Also, courses on geriatric care, infrastructure, child care and counselling and population studies. Read on

NCERT row: Author stands by 'controversial' chapter

NCERT row: Author stands by 'controversial' chapter

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Michel Danino, one of the NCERT academics previously barred by the Supreme Court over a controversial chapter on the judiciary, maintains the content was 'correct' and defends its inclusion in the textbook.

IPL 2026: Arshdeep keeps cool despite social media backlash

IPL 2026: Arshdeep keeps cool despite social media backlash

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh has faced social media scrutiny after a video involving remarks about Tilak Varma went viral. Despite the online chatter, PBKS Head of Sports Science Andrew Leipus says Arshdeep's mindset and behaviour have remained steady, and he continues to be a positive presence within the team.

Parliament Panel Pushes OTT Content Review

Parliament Panel Pushes OTT Content Review

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The Parliamentary Standing Committee said the proposed comprehensive statutory framework for regulating OTT content should include robust technology-enabled age-verification mechanisms, effective parental controls and suitable penalties for non-compliance.

Lucknow school students protest again over teacher shortage

Lucknow school students protest again over teacher shortage

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Girls at a government-run residential school in Lucknow staged a protest, the second in four days, demanding more teachers and better class conduct. The demonstration disrupted traffic, leading to official intervention and ongoing discussions with students regarding their grievances, which include a lack of science teachers despite approaching board exams.

The Sashidhar Jagdishan years at HDFC Bank: Crisis, merger, and scrutiny

The Sashidhar Jagdishan years at HDFC Bank: Crisis, merger, and scrutiny

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Sashidhar Jagdishan, the managing director and CEO of HDFC Bank, has announced his decision not to seek reappointment and will retire at the end of his current term on October 26, concluding a six-year tenure marked by significant regulatory and governance challenges, including RBI restrictions, a major merger, and scrutiny over alleged illegal payments.

NCERT book row: SC modifies order banning academics

NCERT book row: SC modifies order banning academics

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Supreme Court has modified its previous order regarding three academics involved in a controversial NCERT textbook chapter on corruption in the judiciary, allowing government bodies to make independent decisions about their association with the academics.

ISRO, IN-SPACe Face Rocket Transfer Row

ISRO, IN-SPACe Face Rocket Transfer Row

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

There is no answer to the question of how IN-SPACe invited EOIs for ISRO's mature rockets and whether it was based on any government policy decision.

'Bad uncle' gave chocolates: 3-yr-old sexually abused by school bus driver

'Bad uncle' gave chocolates: 3-yr-old sexually abused by school bus driver

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

A three-year-old nursery student in Delhi was allegedly sexually assaulted by her school bus driver, leading to his arrest. Police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and issued an advisory to schools regarding staff verification and vehicle use.

PV Sindhu Lays Foundation For World-Class Sports Centre

PV Sindhu Lays Foundation For World-Class Sports Centre

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Olympic medallist PV Sindhu has initiated the 'PV Sindhu Centre for Sports Excellence' in Visakhapatnam, with Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh performing the groundbreaking. This integrated sports and education ecosystem aims to provide world-class coaching, sports science, and academic support across seven disciplines, establishing Visakhapatnam as a national sports hub.

Wish there were more daughters among medallists: Modi at IIT Delhi convocation

Wish there were more daughters among medallists: Modi at IIT Delhi convocation

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 57th Convocation Ceremony of IIT Delhi, advocating for increased female participation among medallists and awardees. He also advised graduates against social media distractions, encouraged self-improvement, and inaugurated the Param Pragya AI supercomputing facility.

1998 Wandhama massacre: SIA reopens probe into killing of 23 Kashmiri Pandits

1998 Wandhama massacre: SIA reopens probe into killing of 23 Kashmiri Pandits

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The State Investigation Agency (SIA) has reopened investigation into the 1998 Wandhama massacre in Jammu and Kashmir's Ganderbal district, where 23 Kashmiri Pandits were shot dead by terrorists, officials said on Tuesday.

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya Outlines Ambitious Goals For 2036 Olympics Bid And Employment Growth

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya Outlines Ambitious Goals For 2036 Olympics Bid And Employment Growth

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya presented a comprehensive report card on the Sports and Labour & Employment ministries to NDA MPs, detailing India's ambitious bid to host the 2036 Olympics, targets for medal tallies, and significant growth in job creation and social security coverage over the past decade.

'18 years ago today...': Abhinav Bindra reflects on historic Olympic gold

'18 years ago today...': Abhinav Bindra reflects on historic Olympic gold

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Abhinav Bindra, India's first individual Olympic gold medallist, reflected on the 18th anniversary of his historic win at the Beijing Olympics, stating, 'Life since has taught me that the spaces between the peaks matter just as much.'

How Research and Applied Sciences Can Drive India's Sustainability Goals

How Research and Applied Sciences Can Drive India's Sustainability Goals

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

CSIR Director General N Kalaiselvi emphasised the importance of research and applied sciences in developing sustainable solutions for India's energy security and environmental challenges at an international conference on Sustainability Through Fundamental and Applied Sciences (STFAS), 2026.

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The NCERT has included in the class 9 social science textbook a section on Emergency, which it described as "one of the major challenges to democracy in India" with Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailing the move saying future generations should know about the "dark deeds".