Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: At least 16 people including schoolchildren died when a boat capsized in a lake in Indian state of Gujarat on Thursday (January 18). The tragedy took place at Vadodara city's Harni Motnath Lake.

Gujarat boat capsized: 16 killed | First glimpse of Ram Lalla idol

The first look of the new idol of Lord Ram, with the face covered with a white cloth, has been revealed. The 51-inch idol has been sculpted by Mysuru-based artist Arun Yogiraj. The new idol of Lord Ram was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of Ayodhya's Ram Janmabhoomi temple on Thursday, days ahead of the grand consecration ceremony on January 22.

Ram Mandir: Preparation in full swing | World gets first glimpse of Ram Lalla idol inside Ram Mandir

Five Meiteis were shot dead, and four Border Security Force (BSF) members were injured as ethnic violence resumed in the northeastern state.

Manipur ethnic clashes: Five killed as fresh ethnic violence erupts in Manipur

Airbus is optimistic about the future of Indian aviation, projecting a robust demand for 2,840 new aircraft and a need for 41,000 pilots alongside 47,000 technical staff in the next 20 years. <o:p></o:p>

Rémi Maillard, Airbus India and South Asia President, emphasized this outlook during a press conference at the 'Wings India 2024' aviation conclave in Hyderabad. <o:p></o:p>

He anticipates India's aviation market to be a driving force globally, with an estimated investment of $12 billion for new airports and renovations, expanding the current 150 to approximately 200 airports within five years.<o:p></o:p>

Maillard underscored India's pivotal role in Airbus's operations, revealing plans to double the company's sourcing from India to $1.5 billion by the end of the decade, up from the existing $750 million. <o:p></o:p>

The President and Managing Director expressed confidence in India's economic growth, projecting it to be the world's fastest-growing aviation market, fuelled by a 6.2 per cent annual growth rate. <o:p></o:p>

Last year, Airbus secured a record order of 750 aircraft, with 75 units already delivered to Indian carriers, including Indigo, Air India, Vistara, and Go First.<o:p></o:p>

To meet the evolving needs of India's aviation sector, Airbus commits to enhancing its manufacturing presence in the country. The company, in collaboration with Air India, is set to expand its joint venture training centre in Gurugram. <o:p></o:p>

Equipped with 10 simulators, the centre aims to train 5,000 pilots over the next decade. Earlier collaborations, such as the deal with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in 2021 to manufacture C-295 transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force, showcase Airbus's commitment to strengthening its ties with India. <o:p></o:p>

The agreement includes delivering the initial 16 aircraft from Spain and subsequent manufacturing in India through an industrial partnership with TASL.<o:p></o:p>

Maillard highlighted the transformative role of the A350 aircraft in revolutionizing international travel in India. Six of these planes were delivered to Air India in the previous year, symbolising a significant step in the country's aviation landscape. <o:p></o:p>

The Airbus executive anticipates sustained economic growth for India over the next two decades, supporting the need for extensive aircraft, skilled pilots, and technical staff.<o:p></o:p>

<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:&quot;Aptos&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Aptos;mso-fareast-theme-font:
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mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB;mso-fareast-language:
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Airbus is optimistic about the future of Indian aviation, projecting a robust demand for 2,840 new aircraft and a need for 41,000 pilots alongside 47,000 technical staff in the next 20 years.

Airbus is optimistic about the future of Indian aviation, projecting a robust demand for 2,840 new aircraft and a need for 41,000 pilots alongside 47,000 technical staff in the next 20 years. Rémi Maillard, Airbus India and South Asia President, emphasized this outlook during a press conference at the 'Wings India 2024' aviation conclave in Hyderabad. He anticipates India's aviation market to be a driving force globally, with an estimated investment of $12 billion for new airports and renovations, expanding the current 150 to approximately 200 airports within five years. Maillard underscored India's pivotal role in Airbus's operations, revealing plans to double the company's sourcing from India to $1.5 billion by the end of the decade, up from the existing $750 million. The President and Managing Director expressed confidence in India's economic growth, projecting it to be the world's fastest-growing aviation market, fuelled by a 6.2 per cent annual growth rate. Last year, Airbus secured a record order of 750 aircraft, with 75 units already delivered to Indian carriers, including Indigo, Air India, Vistara, and Go First. To meet the evolving needs of India's aviation sector, Airbus commits to enhancing its manufacturing presence in the country. The company, in collaboration with Air India, is set to expand its joint venture training centre in Gurugram. Equipped with 10 simulators, the centre aims to train 5,000 pilots over the next decade. Earlier collaborations, such as the deal with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in 2021 to manufacture C-295 transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force, showcase Airbus's commitment to strengthening its ties with India. The agreement includes delivering the initial 16 aircraft from Spain and subsequent manufacturing in India through an industrial partnership with TASL. Maillard highlighted the transformative role of the A350 aircraft in revolutionizing international travel in India. Six of these planes were delivered to Air India in the previous year, symbolising a significant step in the country's aviation landscape. The Airbus executive anticipates sustained economic growth for India over the next two decades, supporting the need for extensive aircraft, skilled pilots, and technical staff. (With inputs from PTI)

Airbus Forecasts Soaring Demand: India to require 2,840 aircraft and 41,000 pilots in next 2 decades

New details reveal that at least two previously unknown incidents of skirmishes between the Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control.

Gravitas: India, China clashed twice near LAC after 2020 Galwan standoff

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday described India as an “extraordinary success story” and said that the policies and programs implemented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi have proven highly advantageous for the people of India.

US State Secretary Blinken Hails Modi's India at World Economic Forum

Amid the Red sea maritime crisis, India is helping ships coming under attacks. In the latest, Indian navy swiftly came to the rescue of a cargo ship that came under drone attack in the Gulf of Aden. The incident highlights the volatile geopolitical landscape.

Gravitas: India's daring rescue of ship caught in Red Sea crossfire

India-Maldives FM's meet amid deepening diplomatic tensions. India-Maldives core group to hold second meeting next month. Maldives to buy Turkish drones to patrol high seas. India & Maldives jointly patrolled the seas traditionally. Watch to know more!

India-Maldives Row: Jaishankar-Zameer meet on India-Maldives ties

Reserve Bank Of India Governor Shaktikanta Das has expressed confidence in India's economic trajectory. Highlighting a recovery in the banking sector and international trust in India's stability, Das emphasised the opportune moment for businesses to invest in the Indian ecosystem.

Indian rupee to become global currency?

India is eyeing $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment (FDI) "in the next few years", its IT minister said on Wednesday, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to attract investors ahead of a reelection bid.

India eyeing $100 bn in annual foreign direct investment

India's Ministry of External Affairs confirms consular access to jailed Navy veterans in Qatar. Legal team looking into appeals aspect of 8 detained Indians, says MEA. Watch to know more!

India gets consular access to Navy veterans jailed in Qatar

In a global race for economic security, the top ten nations are stockpiling massive gold reserves. The United States leads with over 8,000 tonnes, followed by Germany, Italy, and France. Even India, ranking ninth, surpasses wealthy West Asian nations. These gold reserves, crucial for national stability, serve as a financial safeguard, bolstering currencies and providing a hedge against economic uncertainties. As geopolitical tensions rise, these shimmering reserves highlight their timeless role in national economic strategies.

Gravitas | Top 10 countries with the largest gold reserves: The global gold race

While Pakistan's relations with India remain frosty due to historical and political issues, its ties with its other neighbours, Iran and Afghanistan, are even more complex. Terror groups are retaliating and are coming back at Pakistan with violent payback.

Pakistan: Geo-Economic targets, neighbours and the region

Kuki militants targeted security forces at three different locations in Manipur, months after the state witnessed widespread violence. At least one police personnel was killed in the border town of Moreh.

Manipur: Militants target security personnel, one officer killed in Moreh

The dry spell in the Kashmir Valley has alarmed the authorities in Jammu and Kashmir. After the Kashmir tourism was hit by lack of snowfall at tourist places like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg, experts now say that the water bodies across the Kashmir Valley are drying up.

Water bodies drying up in Kashmir valley due to long dry spell

India’s aviation regulators on Wednesday imposed hefty fines on three airline services and the Mumbai airport operator for not following standard operating procedures and security protocols.

India: Directorate General of Civil Aviation fines Indigo and SpiceJet

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- According to the latest estimates released by the World Gold Council (WGC), India has emerged as the country having the ninth-largest gold reserves in the world. With its gold reserves measuring 2,191.53 tonnes, valued at $ 131,795 million, India is ranked ahead of wealthy Arab and Western nations such as Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.

India's gold reserves now larger than Saudi Arabia & UK

Fog envelops national capital New Delhi & surrounding areas. Over 40 flights delayed at Delhi Airport. At least 18 trains delayed at Delhi station. Watch to know more!

India's Meteorological Department warns of more fog in coming days

After Iranian missiles struck two bases of the militant group Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan, India reacted to the incident. India has clarified that this is an issue that involves Iran and Pakistan.&nbsp;

Moreover, with the Iranian side claiming that the attack was not on "friendly" Pakistanis but rather was on an Iranian "terrorist group" Jaish al-Adl, India reiterated its longstanding position on terrorism saying that it has "zero tolerance" towards it.&nbsp;

"This is a matter between Iran and Pakistan. Insofar as India is concerned, we have an uncompromising zero tolerance towards terrorism," foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to the media queries regarding the Iranian strikes in Pakistan.&nbsp;

"We understand actions that countries take in their self-defence," he added in a statement issued on Wednesday (Jan 17).&nbsp;

In a mere coincidence, the tensions between Iran and Pakistan flared up just as India's Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar wrapped up his visit to Iran, a country with which India holds friendly relations.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-is-a-matter-india-reacts-after-irans-targeted-strikes-on-terrorist-group-in-pak-681008">'This is a matter...': India reacts after Iran's targeted strikes on 'terrorist group' in Pak</a>

The targeted strike carried out by Tehran comes at a crucial juncture when the Red Sea situation is escalating amid the rampant attacks by Yemen's Houthis on the shipping route.&nbsp;

Pakistan, in a gesture of condemnation, recalled its envoy from Iran on Wednesday (Jan 18). Additionally, the Iranian envoy to Pakistan will not be allowed to enter the South Asian nation following the "airspace violation."

“This illegal act is completely unacceptable and has no justification whatsoever,” Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;“Pakistan reserves the right to respond to this illegal act. The responsibility for the consequences will lie squarely with Iran,” it added.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentinas-ambassador-gobbi-lithium-deal-with-india-to-forge-long-term-economic-linkage-681003">Argentina's Ambassador Gobbi: Lithium deal with India to forge long-term economic linkage</a>

The group which was allegedly attacked by Iran had a history of carrying out attacks on Iranian security forces in the border area with Pakistan. For instance, 11 police officers were killed on December 15 in a deadly attack by the group's operatives on a police station.

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Iran Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian claimed, "We only targeted the Iranian terrorist group on the soil of Pakistan. We respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan, but we don't allow national security to be compromised or played with."&nbsp;According to Pakistan, two children were killed in the missile attack by Iran while three others were left injured.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

After Iranian missiles struck two bases of the militant group Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan, India reacted to the incident. India has clarified that this is an issue that involves Iran and Pakistan.

After Iranian missiles struck two bases of the militant group Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan, India reacted to the incident. India has clarified that this is an issue that involves Iran and Pakistan. Moreover, with the Iranian side claiming that the attack was not on "friendly" Pakistanis but rather was on an Iranian "terrorist group" Jaish al-Adl, India reiterated its longstanding position on terrorism saying that it has "zero tolerance" towards it. "This is a matter between Iran and Pakistan. Insofar as India is concerned, we have an uncompromising zero tolerance towards terrorism," foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to the media queries regarding the Iranian strikes in Pakistan. "We understand actions that countries take in their self-defence," he added in a statement issued on Wednesday (Jan 17). In a mere coincidence, the tensions between Iran and Pakistan flared up just as India's Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar wrapped up his visit to Iran, a country with which India holds friendly relations. Also Read | 'This is a matter...': India reacts after Iran's targeted strikes on 'terrorist group' in Pak The targeted strike carried out by Tehran comes at a crucial juncture when the Red Sea situation is escalating amid the rampant attacks by Yemen's Houthis on the shipping route. Pakistan, in a gesture of condemnation, recalled its envoy from Iran on Wednesday (Jan 18). Additionally, the Iranian envoy to Pakistan will not be allowed to enter the South Asian nation following the "airspace violation." “This illegal act is completely unacceptable and has no justification whatsoever,” Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement. “Pakistan reserves the right to respond to this illegal act. The responsibility for the consequences will lie squarely with Iran,” it added. Also Read | Argentina's Ambassador Gobbi: Lithium deal with India to forge long-term economic linkage The group which was allegedly attacked by Iran had a history of carrying out attacks on Iranian security forces in the border area with Pakistan. For instance, 11 police officers were killed on December 15 in a deadly attack by the group's operatives on a police station. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Hostages to receive medicine in exchange for more aid in Gaza × Iran Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian claimed, "We only targeted the Iranian terrorist group on the soil of Pakistan. We respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan, but we don't allow national security to be compromised or played with." According to Pakistan, two children were killed in the missile attack by Iran while three others were left injured. (With inputs from agencies)

'This is a matter...': India reacts after Iran's targeted strikes on 'terrorist group' in Pakistan

In India's Jammu and Kashmir, an army soldier has been killed and two others previously injured in mine explosion near the Line of Control.

Indian Army soldier killed in mine explosion near LoC in Jammu and Kashmir

India is setting its sights on attracting a whopping $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment (FDI) in the coming years, according to Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.<o:p></o:p>

This is based on a Reuters report.<o:p></o:p>

In an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Vaishnaw outlined a comprehensive growth strategy, foreseeing a consistent growth rate of 6-8 per cent over the next decade. <o:p></o:p>

The strategy revolves around four major engines: investment in physical and digital infrastructure, uplifting the bottom pyramid of the population, boosting manufacturing, and simplifying business processes to enhance the ease of doing business. <o:p></o:p>

Vaishnaw highlighted the key components of India's growth strategy, emphasising the significance of investment in infrastructure, both physical and digital.<o:p></o:p>

"We see 6-8 per cent consistent growth rate over the next full decade, and this is based on a very clearly thought-out strategy," he told Reuters. <o:p></o:p>

Foreign direct investment is a pivotal aspect of this plan, and Vaishnaw expressed optimism, asserting that India is now perceived as the "most important investment destination" by global investors. <o:p></o:p>

Despite previous critiques of Modi's protectionist policies, foreign investors, including major players like Apple, Samsung, Kia, and Airbus, have made substantial investments in India.<o:p></o:p>

India has been a magnet for foreign investment since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014. Despite occasional criticism of protectionist policies, the country recorded FDI inflows of $33 billion in the first half of the current financial year and $71 billion in the 2022-23 financial year. <o:p></o:p>

The ambitious target of $100 billion in annual FDI is aimed at sustaining India's economic growth, which is projected to be the highest among major global economies at 7.3 per cent for the current financial year. <o:p></o:p>

This move aligns with Prime Minister Modi's efforts to attract investors ahead of the upcoming elections, addressing crucial issues such as unemployment among the youth.<o:p></o:p>

Vaishnaw drew a parallel with China's success in consistently attracting substantial FDI over more than a decade. <o:p></o:p>

He emphasised that investors now view India as the "most important investment destination". <o:p></o:p>

While India has made significant strides in various sectors, Vaishnaw underscored his role in overseeing India's push to become a powerhouse in electronics manufacturing, aligning with Modi's broader business agenda. <o:p></o:p>

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance collaboration with Apple, aiming to boost the company's manufacturing and retail presence in India, where it currently contributes to approximately 12-14 per cent of global iPhone shipments.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

India is setting its sights on attracting a whopping $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment (FDI) in the coming years, according to Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

India is setting its sights on attracting a whopping $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment (FDI) in the coming years, according to Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. This is based on a Reuters report. In an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Vaishnaw outlined a comprehensive growth strategy, foreseeing a consistent growth rate of 6-8 per cent over the next decade. The strategy revolves around four major engines: investment in physical and digital infrastructure, uplifting the bottom pyramid of the population, boosting manufacturing, and simplifying business processes to enhance the ease of doing business. Vaishnaw highlighted the key components of India's growth strategy, emphasising the significance of investment in infrastructure, both physical and digital. "We see 6-8 per cent consistent growth rate over the next full decade, and this is based on a very clearly thought-out strategy," he told Reuters. Foreign direct investment is a pivotal aspect of this plan, and Vaishnaw expressed optimism, asserting that India is now perceived as the "most important investment destination" by global investors. Despite previous critiques of Modi's protectionist policies, foreign investors, including major players like Apple, Samsung, Kia, and Airbus, have made substantial investments in India. India has been a magnet for foreign investment since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014. Despite occasional criticism of protectionist policies, the country recorded FDI inflows of $33 billion in the first half of the current financial year and $71 billion in the 2022-23 financial year. The ambitious target of $100 billion in annual FDI is aimed at sustaining India's economic growth, which is projected to be the highest among major global economies at 7.3 per cent for the current financial year. This move aligns with Prime Minister Modi's efforts to attract investors ahead of the upcoming elections, addressing crucial issues such as unemployment among the youth. Vaishnaw drew a parallel with China's success in consistently attracting substantial FDI over more than a decade. He emphasised that investors now view India as the "most important investment destination". While India has made significant strides in various sectors, Vaishnaw underscored his role in overseeing India's push to become a powerhouse in electronics manufacturing, aligning with Modi's broader business agenda. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance collaboration with Apple, aiming to boost the company's manufacturing and retail presence in India, where it currently contributes to approximately 12-14 per cent of global iPhone shipments. (With inputs from Reuters)

India seeks $100 billion in annual FDI in coming years: Minister

Ayodhya is blazing with temple devotion as the city excitedly awaits the Pran Pratishtha on January 22. A tidal wave of devotion is sweeping throughout the country, with Ayodhya Dham making extraordinary preparations to welcome the thousands of Ram Bhakts.

Ram Mandir: Lord Ram idol placed in 'Garbh Griha,' temple set for consecration ceremony

The Indian government is considering a significant boost to the manufacturing sector by extending the favorable corporate tax rates for new companies, say several media reports.

These reports reveal that discussions are underway to prolong the existing concession for one to two years. This means the current sunset clause, set to expire on March 31, 2024, could see an extension. However, a final decision has not been reached yet.

At present, newly established domestic manufacturing firms enjoy a concessional corporate tax rate of 15 per cent. To qualify for this benefit, manufacturing units must begin operations by the end of March 2024.

This clause, first announced in the 2019 Budget, aims to attract more investments and stimulate growth in the manufacturing sector.

By offering favorable tax rates to new manufacturing companies, the government aims to make india a more appealing destination for businesses looking to set up manufacturing operations.

This aligns with the broader "Make in India" initiative, which encourages domestic production and reduces reliance on imported goods.

Experts believe that the concessions need to be extended for a period of two more years to see the full extent of the initiative's potential in bringing in new investments.

Abhishek Mundada, Partner, Dhruva Advisors, tells WION that the initiative must be extended for at least five to six years, if India wants to attract global manufacturers.

"Manufacturing sector is the thrust of this government, in terms of making India a global leader," Mundada says, adding that the government introduced this provision to take India's small manufacturing sector to "the next level".

Extending the concessional corporate tax rates would provide a financial incentive for companies to establish and expand their manufacturing units in india. This, in turn, could lead to job creation, technology transfer, and an overall boost to the economy.

The concessions can boost India's ambition to become the world's third-largest economy by the next decade. Mundada argues that countries have and will become a superpower, only with a strong manufacturing base.

With multinational firms increasingly 'de-risking' their supply chains away from China, India has the opportunity to divert manufacturers away from the world's 'factory'.

"After COVID-19 pandemic, the global market dynamics have changed. Boardroom are discussing a 'China +1' strategy and India is at the forefront of it. So, this (concessional tax) regime is important," he adds.

The Indian government is considering a significant boost to the manufacturing sector by extending the favorable corporate tax rates for new companies, say several media reports.

The Indian government is considering a significant boost to the manufacturing sector by extending the favorable corporate tax rates for new companies, say several media reports. These reports reveal that discussions are underway to prolong the existing concession for one to two years. This means the current sunset clause, set to expire on March 31, 2024, could see an extension. However, a final decision has not been reached yet. At present, newly established domestic manufacturing firms enjoy a concessional corporate tax rate of 15 per cent. To qualify for this benefit, manufacturing units must begin operations by the end of March 2024. This clause, first announced in the 2019 Budget, aims to attract more investments and stimulate growth in the manufacturing sector. By offering favorable tax rates to new manufacturing companies, the government aims to make india a more appealing destination for businesses looking to set up manufacturing operations. This aligns with the broader "Make in India" initiative, which encourages domestic production and reduces reliance on imported goods. Experts believe that the concessions need to be extended for a period of two more years to see the full extent of the initiative's potential in bringing in new investments. Abhishek Mundada, Partner, Dhruva Advisors, tells WION that the initiative must be extended for at least five to six years, if India wants to attract global manufacturers. "Manufacturing sector is the thrust of this government, in terms of making India a global leader," Mundada says, adding that the government introduced this provision to take India's small manufacturing sector to "the next level". Extending the concessional corporate tax rates would provide a financial incentive for companies to establish and expand their manufacturing units in india. This, in turn, could lead to job creation, technology transfer, and an overall boost to the economy. The concessions can boost India's ambition to become the world's third-largest economy by the next decade. Mundada argues that countries have and will become a superpower, only with a strong manufacturing base. With multinational firms increasingly 'de-risking' their supply chains away from China, India has the opportunity to divert manufacturers away from the world's 'factory'. "After COVID-19 pandemic, the global market dynamics have changed. Boardroom are discussing a 'China +1' strategy and India is at the forefront of it. So, this (concessional tax) regime is important," he adds.

Budget 2024: Concessional corporate taxes to get another extension, say reports

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023 'Beyond Basics' on Wednesday shed light on the educational levels of children in rural India. The national survey was facilitated by the Pratham Education Foundation and has been carried out every alternate year since 2005.

The survey is done to get an understanding of whether children in rural India are enrolled in school or not, as well as to see their learning progress.

Revealing the significant challenges in education, the annual report pointed out that while a commendable 86.8 per cent of 14-18-year-olds are enrolled in educational institutions, a concerning 25 per cent within this age group struggle to read fluently at a second-grade level in their regional language.&nbsp;While women outperform men in reading second-grade level texts in their regional language (at 76 per cent), men excel in arithmetic and English reading, the report said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-keeps-an-eye-for-100-billion-annual-fdi-boost-in-ambitious-growth-strategy-681045">India keeps an eye for $100 billion annual FDI boost: Report</a>

The survey is based on the data gathered on the enrollment status, basic reading, and arithmetic levels of rural youth.&nbsp;The ASER 2023 report also shed light on mathematics proficiency gender imbalances and course preferences.&nbsp;

The report underscored the reading difficulties among teenagers, stating that "nearly 85 per cent of surveyed youth can measure length using a scale when the starting point is 0 cm. This proportion drops sharply to 39 per cent when the starting point is moved".

The findings reveal a broader issue, with only 50 per cent of youth adept at common calculations like time, weights, and unitary methods.

As far as mathematics competence is concerned, the report highlighted a significant gap in mathematics skills, with "more than half struggling with division (3-digit by 1-digit) problems".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-is-a-matter-india-reacts-after-irans-targeted-strikes-on-terrorist-group-in-pak-681008">'This is a matter...': India reacts after Iran's targeted strikes on 'terrorist group' in Pak</a>

Shockingly, only 43.3 per cent of 14-18-year-olds can correctly solve such problems, a skill typically expected in third and fourth grade.

With regards to gender disparities,&nbsp;intriguingly, the survey exposed gender disparities in educational pursuits. It noted that only 28.1 per cent of women are likely to pursue STEM courses, compared to 36.3 per cent of men in the same age bracket.

The ASER survey also touched&nbsp;upon English proficiency, stating that just over half of the surveyed youth (57.3 per cent) can read sentences in English.

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Of those, an encouraging 73.5 per cent can comprehend the meanings of the sentences.

<h2>Educational streams chosen by students</h2>

The report also highlighted the educational streams being chosen by students.&nbsp;As students progress to 11th grade or higher, the report observed&nbsp;that 55.7 per cent are enrolled in the Arts or Humanities stream, followed by STEM at 31.7 per cent and Commerce at 9.4 per cent.

The survey was conducted in 28 districts across 26 states and reached 34,745 youth in one rural district in each major state. In an exception, two rural districts were surveyed in each Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023 'Beyond Basics' on Wednesday shed light on the educational levels of children in rural India. The national survey was facilitated by the Pratham Education Foundation and has been carried out every alternate year since 2005.

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023 'Beyond Basics' on Wednesday shed light on the educational levels of children in rural India. The national survey was facilitated by the Pratham Education Foundation and has been carried out every alternate year since 2005. The survey is done to get an understanding of whether children in rural India are enrolled in school or not, as well as to see their learning progress. Revealing the significant challenges in education, the annual report pointed out that while a commendable 86.8 per cent of 14-18-year-olds are enrolled in educational institutions, a concerning 25 per cent within this age group struggle to read fluently at a second-grade level in their regional language. While women outperform men in reading second-grade level texts in their regional language (at 76 per cent), men excel in arithmetic and English reading, the report said. Also Read | India keeps an eye for $100 billion annual FDI boost: Report The survey is based on the data gathered on the enrollment status, basic reading, and arithmetic levels of rural youth. The ASER 2023 report also shed light on mathematics proficiency gender imbalances and course preferences. The report underscored the reading difficulties among teenagers, stating that "nearly 85 per cent of surveyed youth can measure length using a scale when the starting point is 0 cm. This proportion drops sharply to 39 per cent when the starting point is moved". The findings reveal a broader issue, with only 50 per cent of youth adept at common calculations like time, weights, and unitary methods. As far as mathematics competence is concerned, the report highlighted a significant gap in mathematics skills, with "more than half struggling with division (3-digit by 1-digit) problems". Also Read | 'This is a matter...': India reacts after Iran's targeted strikes on 'terrorist group' in Pak Shockingly, only 43.3 per cent of 14-18-year-olds can correctly solve such problems, a skill typically expected in third and fourth grade. With regards to gender disparities, intriguingly, the survey exposed gender disparities in educational pursuits. It noted that only 28.1 per cent of women are likely to pursue STEM courses, compared to 36.3 per cent of men in the same age bracket. The ASER survey also touched upon English proficiency, stating that just over half of the surveyed youth (57.3 per cent) can read sentences in English. Watch | Ram Mandir Inauguration: Ram Lalla idol brought to the temple in a truck × Of those, an encouraging 73.5 per cent can comprehend the meanings of the sentences. Educational streams chosen by students The report also highlighted the educational streams being chosen by students. As students progress to 11th grade or higher, the report observed that 55.7 per cent are enrolled in the Arts or Humanities stream, followed by STEM at 31.7 per cent and Commerce at 9.4 per cent. The survey was conducted in 28 districts across 26 states and reached 34,745 youth in one rural district in each major state. In an exception, two rural districts were surveyed in each Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. (With inputs from agencies)

Struggle with division, lacking reading skills... ASER report reveals learning levels of Indian teens

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