Approval Process For Pharmacy Institutions’ Academic Session 2025-26 Applications
The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) has announced the opening of its portal for pharmacy institutions seeking approval for the academic session 2025-26. From December 18, 2024, to January 15, 2025, existing institutions can apply for continuation of approval, introduction of new courses, raising admissions, or availing specific services through the PCI portal.
Government Targets Misleading Coaching Advertisements
The National Consumer Helpline (NCH), administered by the Department of Consumer Affairs, has emerged as a vital platform for pre-litigation grievance redressal. Accessible nationwide in 17 languages through a toll-free number (1915), the NCH also allows grievance registration via WhatsApp, SMS, email, the NCH app, the Umang app, and the web portal.
India’s Pharmaceutical Industry With Ambitious Growth Plans
India’s pharmaceutical industry is a significant force in the global market, boasting a strong domestic presence and a rapidly growing export sector. National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (NIPERs) spearhead research efforts.
NEET UG 2025 Syllabus Released
The finalized syllabus for NEET UG 2025 covers detailed topics from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, serving as the primary guide for aspiring medical students preparing for the academic session 2025-26. Stakeholders, including educational institutions and candidates, have been urged to refer to the updated syllabus to align study materials and preparation strategies.
Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates, Commission Invokes Emergency Measures
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has been steadily rising, reaching a concerning 379 by 4 PM on December 16, 2024. Forecasts predict the AQI to remain in the “Very Poor” to “Severe” category in the coming days due to unfavorable weather conditions. This has prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and Adjoining Areas to invoke emergency measures under Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Central Government Amends Wheat Stockholding Limits for Traders and Processors
The amended order applies to all States and Union Territories. The stockholding limit for wheat has been extended until March 31, 2025. Traders, wholesalers, retailers, big chain retailers, and processors are required to declare their current wheat stockholdings on the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DoFPD) portal. Entities exceeding the prescribed limits must bring their stocks within the limit by December 26, 2024.
FSSAI Publishes Latest List of Accredited Food Testing Laboratories
The list specifies a total of 218 FSSAI Notified NABL Accredited Food Testing Laboratories with valid accreditation. Additionally the list also specifies, 24 FSSAI notified laboratories whose NABL accreditation validity has expired or are under suspension or under process of denotification or have shifted premise without Integrated assessment.
New Process for Verification of Additional Medical Qualifications in India
Previously, NMC verified qualifications directly with issuing institutions. However, NBEMS has implemented a new online system called the “Credential Verification Online Portal (CVOP)” to streamline this process. The online CVOP system is expected to improve the efficiency and transparency of the verification process for medical practitioners seeking NMC’s AQ certificates.
NMC Warns Against Misleading Communications
The NMC has clarified that only communications formally published on its official website and Twitter handle (@NMC_BHARAT) are considered authentic and enforceable. Any other communications circulating in the public domain, including social media, should be treated with caution and verified through official channels.
AI and Technology Revolutionize Indian Agriculture
The Indian government has been actively leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to address various challenges faced by the agricultural sector. These technological advancements are aimed at boosting agricultural productivity, reducing costs, and improving farmers’ livelihoods. A press release on these advancements was issued on December 10, 2024.