Media Release

IGNOU Vice-Chancellor invited as Special Guest of Honour at Sainya Kaushal Divas

The Indian Army held its first-ever ‘Sainya Kaushal Divas’ to commemorate the successful rollout of ‘Project Kaushalveer’, a skilling and certification initiative aimed at equipping Agniveers and regular soldiers with industry-recognised skills while providing opportunities for educational advancement. IGNOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal was invited as the Special Guest of Honour at the event.

The event was chaired by Lt Gen Vipul Shinghal, AVSM, SM, DCOAS (IS & T), and co-chaired by Lt Gen Ajay Ramdev, SM, DGIT, and Maj Gen Tamojeet Biswas, ADG AE, with senior officers, including ADGs/Brig from the Line Dtes, in attendance. Prof. Akhilesh Mishra, Chairman, NIOS, was also invited as a Special Guest.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Kanjilal appreciated the Indian Army’s efforts in implementing Project Kaushalveer, particularly its focus on recognising and certifying the vocational and professional competencies acquired by Armed Forces personnel and Agniveers through military training. She described the partnership between the Indian Army and IGNOU as an important step towards advancing the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Prof. Kanjilal also highlighted the 50:50 credit-sharing framework of IGNOU’s Agniveer Bachelor’s Degree Programme, under which competencies acquired through military service are integrated with formal higher education. She reaffirmed the University’s commitment to enabling Agniveers to pursue higher education alongside their service and to acquire qualifications and skills that can support their transition to further education, employment or entrepreneurship. IGNOU, currently, offers the Bachelor of Arts (Applied Skills), Bachelor of Science (Applied Skills) and Bachelor of Commerce (Applied Skills), along with specialised programmes in Tourism Management and MSME for Agniveers. Designed with flexibility in mind, these programmes enable personnel to pursue higher education without disrupting their military responsibilities.

The Vice-Chancellor further outlined the role of Recognised Regional Centres (RRCs), which function as single-window systems within military commands, coordinating academic activities and facilitating access to higher education. Through these centres, serving soldiers and Agniveers can pursue skill-integrated degree programmes while continuing their service. The growing participation in IGNOU’s Agniveer programmes reflects the expanding reach of the Army–IGNOU educational partnership. According to the data presented, fresh admissions across the admission cycles from July 2023 to July 2026 stood at 17,802, while re-registration accounted for 12,855 applications. The figures indicate sustained engagement of Agniveers with formal higher education through the University.

The initiative brings together skill recognition, formal academic qualifications and workplace learning, creating an educational pathway that enables Agniveers and serving personnel to build on their military experience. The collaboration between the Indian Army and IGNOU, thus, continues to strengthen opportunities for higher education and skill development, both during military service and beyond it. Prof. Jaideep Sharma, Registrar, SED; Dr. G. Mythili, Registrar, SRD; and Dr. Ranjita Panda, Additional Director, RSD, were among the IGNOU officials who attended the event.

Public Information Unit (PIU)
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi - 110068

Media Release

IGNOU Turns Campus Waste into Art During 'Swachhta Pakhwara'

The School of Performing and Visual Arts (SOPVA), in association with General Administration and Construction and Maintenance Division (CMD) at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) organised a Sculpture Art Workshop using waste materials from 16 to 23 September 2026 as part of ‘Swachhta Pakhwara 2026’. The initiative brought together cleanliness, creativity and environmental consciousness by transforming discarded materials from the IGNOU campus into distinctive works of art.

The workshop reflected SOPVA’s innovative approach to the ‘Swachhta Campaign’ and ‘Swachh Bharat Mission’, demonstrating how materials considered waste can be creatively repurposed into aesthetically engaging and meaningful artworks. The initiative not only promoted a cleaner campus but also encouraged a broader understanding of sustainability by giving discarded objects a new artistic and functional identity. The artworks created during the workshop have been installed at different locations on the IGNOU campus, adding a creative dimension to the university’s public spaces.

On the concluding day, IGNOU Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal along with esteemed guests Prof. Sushma Yadav, Prof. Ashok Sharma and Prof. Rattan Lal felicitated and acknowledged the contributions of the participating installation artists. Appreciating the initiative, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor recognized the workshop as a creative expression of the spirit of ‘Swachhta Pakhwara’ and the importance of developing sustainable practices through art and innovation.

The workshop was organised under the guidance of Prof. Lakshaman Prasad, Director, SOPVA, with valuable contributions from SOPVA faculty members Dr. Mallika Banerjee and Dr. Seema Johari, Ph.D. scholars Mr. Kapil, Mr. Deepak, Mr. Tusar Verma and Mr. Jitendra Kumar (MADP), and SOPVA staff members Mr. Chandan and Mr. Amit Thapa.

Artists who participated in the workshop included Dr. Mithun Kumar Dutta, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi; Mr. Jitendra Nayak, Mumbai; Mr. Goutam Pramanik, Kolkata; Mr. Avanish Kumar Varma, Varanasi; and Mr. Jitendra Prajapati and Mr. Anil Kumar, Delhi. Working with discarded and unused materials collected from the campus, the artists created a range of sculptures and installations that demonstrate the creative possibilities inherent in everyday waste.

The initiative stands out as a noteworthy effort by SOPVA to make the message of cleanliness more visible and engaging through artistic expression. By turning scrap into art, the workshop successfully connected environmental responsibility with creativity and demonstrated that a cleanliness drive can extend beyond maintaining physical spaces to fostering a culture of reuse, imagination and sustainable living.

Public Information Unit (PIU)
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi - 110068

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has announced the One-Year MA in Development Studies (MADVSOY) for the July 2026 academic session.

About the Programme

The programme is offered by the School of Extension and Development Studies (SOEDS) and is designed to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills for professionals working in development, policy and social change.

Who Can Apply?

• Graduates of Four-Year Undergraduate Programmes (FYUP)
• Professional 4-year or 5-year Agriculture/Allied graduates
• 4-year B.Tech or B.E. graduates from any branch

Programme Structure

Semester 1 – 20 Credits

• Introduction to Development and Development Theories
• Dynamics of Development
• Issues and Challenges of Development

Semester 2 – 20 Credits

• Research Methodology in Development Studies
• Gender Studies
• Development Planning and Communication
• Training and Development
• Local Self Governance
• Health and Development
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
• Urban Development
• Project Work

Programme Fee

₹8,000/- for the complete one-year programme.

Admission

Apply through the official IGNOU admission portal: IGNOU Admission Portal

Programme Information

School of Extension and Development Studies (SOEDS)
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
New Delhi – 110068

MADVS-flyer-2026.pdf

MEDIA RELEASE

IGNOU Further Extends Last Date for Fresh Admissions and Re-registration till 16th August 2026

New Delhi: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has further extended the last date for Fresh Admissions and Re-registration for the July 2026 Session till 16th August 2026.

The extension applies to all notified programmes offered through both the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online modes, providing learners with additional time to complete the admission and re-registration process.

Fresh Admission Portals:

• ODL Programmes: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/
• Online Programmes: https://ignouiop.samarth.edu.in/

Re-registration Portal:

• https://ignou.samarth.edu.in/index.php/site/login

The University offers a comprehensive range of Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma, and Certificate Programmes across disciplines including Humanities, Social Sciences, Sciences, Commerce, Management, Computer Applications, Education, Social Work, Library and Information Science, Tourism, Rural Development, Languages, Journalism, Health Sciences, Agriculture, Vocational Education, and several emerging and professional fields.

Prospective learners and existing students are advised to complete their Fresh Admission or Re-registration well before the revised deadline of 16th August 2026 to avoid last-minute inconvenience.

Public Information Unit (PIU)
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi - 110068

IGNOU Celebrates Six Years of NEP 2020 with ‘Shiksha Sankalp’

Experts Deliberate on Innovation, AI, Skilling and Indian Knowledge Systems

New Delhi, July 29, 2026: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) organised a day-long national conclave, ‘Shiksha Sankalp: Celebrating 6 Years of NEP 2020’, at its Headquarters to commemorate six years of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The event brought together eminent academicians, policymakers, industry leaders and technology experts to deliberate on the transformative impact of NEP 2020 and its role in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

The programme commenced with an exhibition titled ‘Showcasing Innovations for Viksit Bharat’, highlighting innovative projects and startups aligned with the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and a knowledge-driven economy. The inaugural session began with the University Kulgeet and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.

Welcoming the gathering, Prof. Jitendra Kumar Srivastava, Registrar, IGNOU, said that six years of NEP 2020 offer an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and collectively chart the way forward. He highlighted IGNOU’s initiatives in implementing NEP 2020 through flexible learning pathways, the Academic Bank of Credits, skill-based programmes and technology-enabled education.

Delivering the Chief Guest address, Prof. Shashikala Wanjari, Vice Chancellor, NIEPA, extended greetings on the occasion of Guru Purnima and reflected on the transformative journey of NEP 2020. Appreciating IGNOU as the “Jan Jan Ka Vishwavidyalaya”, she said its inclusive approach embodies the spirit of NEP 2020 and emphasized that the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 can only be realised through compassion, ethical values and social responsibility.

In her Presidential Address, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU, highlighted that the conclave covered major dimensions of NEP 2020, including Indian Knowledge Systems, skilling, Artificial Intelligence, entrepreneurship and digital public infrastructure. She said IGNOU is contributing significantly towards achieving the national target of 50% Gross Enrolment Ratio by 2035 through expanded access to quality higher education, skill development and innovation.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. Neera Kapoor, who expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, distinguished speakers, dignitaries and participants for their valuable contributions.

Technical Sessions

The first technical session on “Indian Knowledge System & Digital India Awareness”, moderated by Prof. Jaideep Sharma, featured Prof. Pawan Kumar Singh, Professor, IIM Indore and Former Director, IIM Tiruchirappalli. He emphasized the need for empathetic and rigorous implementation of Indian Knowledge Systems and highlighted multidisciplinary education as the heart of NEP 2020.

The session also featured Mr. Gaurav Khare and Ms. Yashika Sharma, who explained how APAAR ID, Academic Bank of Credits (ABC), DigiLocker and NDEAR are strengthening Digital Public Infrastructure for education.

The second session on “Shaping Viksit Bharat: The Skill & Education Synergy”, moderated by Prof. Paramita Suklabaidya, featured Dr. Neena Pahuja and Mr. Praveen Roy, who highlighted the importance of flexible learning pathways, industry-academia collaboration, internships and industry-relevant skills for enhancing employability.

The afternoon session on “AI, AVGC & the Future of ODL”, moderated by Prof. Gaurav Singh, featured Mr. Munjal Shroff, who highlighted the potential of AVGC-XR technologies in creating immersive learning experiences, and Dr. Neeti Verma, who emphasized responsible AI based on pedagogy, integrity, trust and privacy.

The programme concluded with a panel discussion on “Innovation & Entrepreneurship under NEP-2020: From Policy to Practice”, featuring Mr. Shailendra Jaiswal, Prof. Jitendra K. Das, Prof. Satish Kumar Dubey and Dr. Venugopal S. The panel stressed strengthening innovation ecosystems, incubation support and industry-academia partnerships.

Presenting the summary and way forward, Prof. Pema Eden Samdup, Director, International Division, IGNOU, underscored the need for sustained collaboration among academia, government and industry to accelerate the implementation of NEP 2020 and achieve the vision of a developed, inclusive and knowledge-driven India.

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MEDIA RELEASE

IGNOU Extends Last Date for Fresh Admissions for July 2026 Session till 31st July 2026

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has extended the last date for submission of Fresh Admission applications for the July 2026 Session till 31st July 2026 for all notified programmes offered through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online modes.

The extension provides another opportunity for aspiring learners across the country and abroad to enrol in IGNOU's wide range of academic programmes and pursue quality higher education through the University's flexible and learner-centric education system.

Applications can be submitted online through the following Samarth admission portals:

ODL Programmes:
https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/

Online Programmes:
https://ignouiop.samarth.edu.in/

Prospective learners are advised to visit the respective admission portals to view the list of notified programmes, eligibility criteria, fee details, and other admission-related information before submitting their applications.

IGNOU offers a comprehensive range of Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma and Certificate Programmes in disciplines such as Humanities, Social Sciences, Sciences, Commerce, Management, Computer Applications, Education, Social Work, Library and Information Science, Tourism, Rural Development, Languages, Journalism, Health Sciences, Agriculture, Vocational Education, and several other emerging and professional fields.

Some of the popular programmes offered during the July 2026 admission cycle include Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.), Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.), Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA), Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Bachelor of Rural Studies (BFRS), Master of Arts (MA), Master of Commerce (M.Com.), Master of Science (M.Sc.), Master of Computer Applications (MCA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Social Work (MSW), Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics (MSCDSA), and Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (MSCAIML), along with a wide range of career-oriented diploma, postgraduate diploma, and certificate programmes designed to meet the evolving educational and professional aspirations of learners.

As India's largest Open University, IGNOU continues to provide accessible, affordable, flexible, and quality higher education to millions of learners. The University's Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system enables learners to pursue education at their own pace while balancing professional, personal, and family commitments.

Why Choose IGNOU?

• Flexible learning through Open and Distance Learning and Online modes.
• Affordable fee structure with quality education.
• UGC-recognized degrees and programmes approved by the relevant statutory bodies.
• NAAC A++ Accredited University.
• Comprehensive Self-Learning Materials in print and digital formats.
• Robust learner support through a nationwide network of Regional Centres and Learner Support Centres.
• Technology-enabled teaching-learning ecosystem with online counselling, digital resources, and student support services.
• Programmes aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting flexibility, multidisciplinary learning, and lifelong education.

IGNOU has consistently empowered learners from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, including working professionals, women, rural learners, differently-abled persons, and those residing in remote and underserved areas, by making higher education accessible without geographical or time constraints.

Prospective learners are encouraged to make use of this extended opportunity and complete their admission process well before the revised deadline of 31st July 2026.

Public Information Unit (PIU),
Indira Gandhi National Open University,
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi - 110068.

IGNOU and OSOU Enter into Academic Collaboration to Empower Learners Through Innovation, Inclusion & Technology

IGNOU Signs Landmark MoU with OSOU to Widen the Horizons of Open Learning

Sambalpur, Odisha | 5 July 2026

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) marked a defining chapter in its institutional journey on 4 July 2026 by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Odisha State Open University (OSOU) in Sambalpur, Odisha. The MoU aims to strengthen open and distance learning through academic collaboration, innovation, technology integration and learner-centric initiatives.

Celebrating its Eleventh Foundation Day, OSOU hosted academicians, policymakers and industry leaders. Dr. Mridula T. Pradhan attended as the Chief Guest, inaugurated the Anveshan – Centre for Advanced Vocational Growth, and highlighted the importance of skill-driven and inclusive higher education.

The MoU was signed in the presence of IGNOU Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal and OSOU Vice Chancellor Prof. Shyam Sundar Pattnaik. The event was also attended by Prof. Bhimaraya Metri (Director, IIM Nagpur), Prof. Sukumar Mishra (Director, IIT Dhanbad), Prof. Shyama Rath (Member Secretary, AICTE), and Er. Jagannath Prasad Nayak (President, Aditya Aluminium).

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Uma Kanjilal emphasized the importance of technology-enabled open and distance education, highlighting AI-enabled learning management systems, digital learning platforms, mobile-based education and skill-oriented programmes as the future of higher education.

The collaboration will facilitate the joint development of certificate, diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, skill-based and research programmes, with a focus on emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cyber Security, Digital Humanities, Entrepreneurship and Indian Knowledge Systems. The partnership also includes the development of multilingual self-learning materials, digital content and enhanced learner support systems.

The MoU further promotes collaboration in digital learning infrastructure, faculty development, joint research, student counselling and outreach for disadvantaged communities. A joint Monitoring and Implementation Committee, co-chaired by the Vice Chancellors of both universities, will oversee the implementation of the agreement during its five-year tenure.

This partnership strengthens IGNOU's mission of expanding quality education while supporting OSOU's vision of becoming a technology-driven and learner-centric university. The collaboration will provide learners with wider academic opportunities, improved digital learning experiences and enhanced access to skill-based education.

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Photos at a Glance

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IGNOU Opens the Door to Doctoral Excellence: Admissions Announced for 36 PhD Programmes

New Delhi: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has invited online applications for admission to 36 Ph.D. programmes for the July 2026 session. The application process commenced on June 10, 2026, and will remain open until July 1, 2026. Interested candidates can apply online through the University's official website www.ignou.ac.in or the admission portal https://ignou-phd.samarth.edu.in/.

The University is offering Ph.D. admissions in Psychology, Anthropology, Political Science, Public Administration, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, Life Sciences, Physics, Statistics, Mathematics, Sanskrit, Hindi, English, Computer Science, Education, Distance Education, Environmental Science, Fine Arts, Theatre Arts, Music, Dance, Social Work, Management, Commerce, Nutritional Sciences, Child Development, Home Science, Vocational Education, Development Studies, Gender and Development Studies, Translation Studies, French, Arabic, and Journalism & Mass Communication.

Admissions will be conducted in accordance with the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulations, 2022. Candidates may apply through four admission categories:

• UGC-NET with JRF
• UGC-NET (Eligible for Assistant Professor and Ph.D.)
• UGC-NET (Eligible for Ph.D. only)
• University-level Entrance Test

Interview/Viva-Voce shall be mandatory for all categories.

IGNOU offers both Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. programmes. All admitted scholars will be required to undergo course work at the IGNOU Headquarters, New Delhi, with a mandatory minimum attendance of 80 per cent.

The application fee is Rs. 2,000. Detailed information regarding eligibility criteria, discipline-wise vacancies, reservation policy, admission procedure, and entrance-test syllabus is available on the University's website.

For further details, candidates may visit www.ignou.ac.in or contact the Research Unit at researchunit@ignou.ac.in.

Rajesh Sharma
PRO, IGNOU

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IGNOU ने डॉक्टरेट में बेहतरीन शिक्षा के लिए रास्ते खोले: 36 PhD प्रोग्राम में एडमिशन की घोषणा

नई दिल्ली: इंदिरा गांधी नेशनल ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी (IGNOU) ने जुलाई 2026 सेशन के लिए 36 Ph.D. प्रोग्राम में एडमिशन के लिए ऑनलाइन आवेदन आमंत्रित किए हैं। आवेदन प्रक्रिया 10 जून, 2026 को शुरू हुई और 1 जुलाई, 2026 तक खुली रहेगी। इच्छुक उम्मीदवार यूनिवर्सिटी की ऑफिशियल वेबसाइट www.ignou.ac.in या एडमिशन पोर्टल https://ignou-phd.samarth.edu.in/ के माध्यम से ऑनलाइन आवेदन कर सकते हैं।

यूनिवर्सिटी इन विषयों में Ph.D. एडमिशन दे रही है: साइकोलॉजी, एंथ्रोपोलॉजी, पॉलिटिकल साइंस, पब्लिक एडमिनिस्ट्रेशन, बायोकेमिस्ट्री, केमिस्ट्री, जियोग्राफी, जियोलॉजी, लाइफ साइंसेज, फिजिक्स, स्टैटिस्टिक्स, मैथमेटिक्स, संस्कृत, हिंदी, इंग्लिश, कंप्यूटर साइंस, एजुकेशन, डिस्टेंस एजुकेशन, एनवायरनमेंटल साइंस, फाइन आर्ट्स, थिएटर आर्ट्स, म्यूजिक, डांस, सोशल वर्क, मैनेजमेंट, कॉमर्स, न्यूट्रिशनल साइंसेज, चाइल्ड डेवलपमेंट, होम साइंस, वोकेशनल एजुकेशन, डेवलपमेंट स्टडीज, जेंडर एंड डेवलपमेंट स्टडीज, ट्रांसलेशन स्टडीज, फ्रेंच, अरेबिक और जर्नलिज्म एंड मास कम्युनिकेशन।

एडमिशन UGC (Ph.D. डिग्री देने के लिए न्यूनतम मानक और प्रक्रिया) रेगुलेशंस, 2022 के अनुसार किए जाएंगे। उम्मीदवार चार एडमिशन कैटेगरी के माध्यम से आवेदन कर सकते हैं:

• JRF के साथ UGC-NET
• UGC-NET (असिस्टेंट प्रोफेसर और Ph.D. के लिए योग्य)
• UGC-NET (केवल Ph.D. के लिए योग्य)
• यूनिवर्सिटी-लेवल एंट्रेंस टेस्ट

सभी कैटेगरी के लिए इंटरव्यू/वाइवा-वोस (मौखिक परीक्षा) अनिवार्य होगा।

IGNOU फुल-टाइम और पार्ट-टाइम दोनों तरह के Ph.D. प्रोग्राम ऑफर करता है। सभी चुने गए स्कॉलर्स को IGNOU हेडक्वार्टर, नई दिल्ली में कोर्स वर्क पूरा करना होगा, जिसके लिए 80 प्रतिशत न्यूनतम उपस्थिति अनिवार्य है।

आवेदन शुल्क 2,000 रुपये है। योग्यता मानदंड, विषय-वार वैकेंसी, रिजर्वेशन पॉलिसी, एडमिशन प्रक्रिया और एंट्रेंस टेस्ट के सिलेबस के बारे में विस्तृत जानकारी यूनिवर्सिटी की वेबसाइट पर उपलब्ध है।

अधिक जानकारी के लिए, उम्मीदवार www.ignou.ac.in पर जा सकते हैं या रिसर्च यूनिट से researchunit@ignou.ac.in पर संपर्क कर सकते हैं।

राजेश शर्मा
जनसंपर्क अधिकारी (PRO), IGNOU

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PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU Campus Placement Cell Scripts a Landmark Success: 200+ Learners Offered Jobs by Six Recruiters at the Mega Placement Drive with record 3,900 Registrations
A record-breaking on-campus recruitment event at the IGNOU headquarters reinforces the university’s commitment to connecting its learners with meaningful, sector-diverse career pathways.
 
New Delhi, 29 April 2026

The Campus Placement Cell (CPC) of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has etched a milestone in its record of learner empowerment, convening a Mega Campus Placement Drive of remarkable scale and sectoral breadth at the B.R. Ambedkar Convention Centre, New Delhi, on Tuesday, 29 April 2026. The event marked a remarkable success as more than 200 learners secured job offers at the placement drive. It witnessed an unprecedented registration of 3,900 IGNOU learners vying for about 200 positions tendered by six recruiting organisations representing the EdTech, Aviation, Hospitality, Services, and NGO sectors, affirming the University’s conviction that geographical distance need never impede professional ambition.

The figure of 3,900 registered candidates is not merely a statistical achievement; it is a testament to the depth of trust that IGNOU’s learner community reposes in the University’s institutional mechanisms for career facilitation. The Campus Placement Cell has, over successive drives, cultivated a reputation for pairing academically prepared learners with employers who appreciate the rigour, resilience, and real-world orientation that the open and distance learning model instils. Today’s turnout represents the single largest registration for an on-campus recruitment event in the CPC’s history, underscoring a growing appetite among IGNOU’s learner base for structured, institution-mediated pathways into the professional world.

Central to the drive’s design was the deliberate diversity of sectors represented. By engaging organisations from EdTech, Aviation, Hospitality, Services, and the Non-Governmental Organisation sector simultaneously, the CPC demonstrated its commitment to sector-agnostic opportunity, acknowledging that IGNOU’s learner base is itself heterogeneous in its professional aspirations, academic backgrounds, and vocational inclinations. Each of around 200 positions on offer was designed to be accessible to graduates whose qualifications have been earned through the open and distance learning mode, signalling a progressive evolution in how mainstream employers engage with ODL graduates as first-choice recruits. EdTech, as a sector, has emerged as one of the most natural destinations for IGNOU graduates, whose educational journey has been mediated by technology and self-directed learning. Aviation and Hospitality offer access to industries characterised by scale, service excellence, and rapid professional growth, while the inclusion of NGO-sector opportunities reflects the University’s abiding commitment to social purpose.

Students participating for the recruitment drive expressed that their expectations for brighter careers germinated after knowing about the previous recruitment drives conducted by the CPC. Candidates who were short-listed have communicated and praised the efforts made by the placement coordination team. IGNOU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, highlighting the 3900 student registrations for the mega placement drive with about 200 jobs offer, said that, “it shows our tireless effort to bridge the distance between a learner’s educational attainment and her or his rightful place in the professional sphere. Through effective placement drives, targeted industry-connect initiatives, and dedicated pre-placement training and support programmes, the Cell has consistently ensured that every IGNOU learner is not merely placed but positioned, equipped with the confidence, competence, and professional acumen to thrive in a competitive employment environment.”

IGNOU’s learner base is one of the most diverse in the world, encompassing individuals from rural and tribal India, working professionals pursuing up-skilling, women returning to education after career breaks, members of the armed forces and paramilitary services, persons with disabilities, and learners from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. It is the CPC’s singular achievement that it has engineered a placement ecosystem capacious enough to serve this extraordinary diversity, one in which the candidate’s mode of study is never a disqualification but, rather, a mark of uncommon determination. The success of any placement drive is ultimately measured not in registrations or vacancies but in outcomes: in the lives changed, the livelihoods secured, and the aspirations fulfilled. The Mega Placement Drive held today has by the scale of its participation and the quality of the opportunities it presents, created the conditions for precisely such outcomes. For learners who may have doubted whether a degree earned through open and distance learning would open the same professional doors as one earned on a traditional campus, today’s event offered a compelling and emphatically affirmative answer. IGNOU’s reach has always transcended geographical boundaries; through the Campus Placement Cell, it now demonstrably transcends professional ones as well. The University remains steadfast in its conviction that distance is no barrier to success, and today’s Mega Placement Drive stands as one of the most eloquent demonstrations of that conviction in the institution’s four-decade history.


‘The Campus Placement Cell of IGNOU continues to demonstrate that the open and distance learning mode is not a detour around opportunity, it is a direct route to it.’


Rajesh Sharma (President of India Awardee for the Best Bharat Scouts and Guides Rover)
Public Relations Officer / Social Media Champion
Block-11 Room No. 13 B
Maidan Garhi, IGNOU Campus
New Delhi-110068

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PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU CONVENES THE BIGGEST STUDENTS’ PARTICIPATION FORUM ON NARI SHAKTI VANDAN ADHINIYAM

MP Bansuri Swaraj and NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar Addressed Student Delegates on Women’s Representation in Parliament and State Legislatures

NEW DELHI | 13 APRIL 2026

The gap between India’s democratic promise and its legislative reality has rarely been more sharply visible as women constitute nearly half the electorate, yet fewer than 14 per cent of the seats in the Lok Sabha are theirs. It was precisely this dissonance that IGNOU, the institution Parliament built to democratise learning, and which its millions of students have long called ‘The People’s University’, chose to address by hosting a students’ deliberation forum at its headquarters in New Delhi on Monday, April 13, 2026.

The landmark Students’ Discussion Forum on the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023’, a watershed legislation that reserves 33 per cent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, was hosted at the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Convention Centre. The event marked one of the most consequential student-led civic deliberations on women’s political representation in recent academic memory. The forum was also conducted across all IGNOU Regional Centres, making it one of the largest student participation initiatives in the country.

Presided over by Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, the forum was graced by distinguished Chief Guests Ms. Bansuri Swaraj, Hon’ble Member of Parliament representing the New Delhi Lok Sabha Constituency, and Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar, Hon’ble Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), Government of India.

Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar, while addressing the gathering, highlighted IGNOU’s commitment to women’s empowerment and stated that the university truly reflects the aspirations of women through education and awareness. She emphasised that greater representation of women is essential for national progress and encouraged young women to actively participate in all spheres of development.

Ms. Bansuri Swaraj expressed her appreciation for the increasing participation of women in the democratic process and acknowledged various government initiatives supporting women’s growth and empowerment. She stressed that political empowerment is crucial for achieving the national vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’.

The forum also witnessed participation from eminent dignitaries including Shri Shyam Jaju, who motivated students to actively engage in policy-making and leadership roles. The discussions were structured around five thematic pillars focusing on social, structural, institutional, and democratic aspects of women’s representation, along with envisioning women as leaders in India’s future growth trajectory.

Designed as a dynamic and participatory platform, the deliberations simulated parliamentary-style discussions and aimed at generating actionable policy recommendations. The initiative reflects IGNOU’s commitment to fostering informed citizenship and encouraging youth participation in nation-building.

In her address, Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal remarked that the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam represents not just a legislative reform but a significant step towards addressing historical inequalities in democratic representation. She emphasised the university’s role in empowering students to become active contributors to policy and governance.

Prof. Nayantara Padhi, Director of the Special Project Unit at IGNOU, concluded the programme with a vote of thanks, reiterating the importance of student engagement in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.

As one of the world’s leading open universities, IGNOU continues to play a pivotal role in expanding access to education and empowering learners across the country, especially women. Through such initiatives, the university reinforces its commitment to contributing towards a more inclusive and participatory democratic framework in India.

IGNOU_NariShaktiVandanAdhiniyam.jpg

PRESS RELEASE

Lt. Governor of Delhi serves as Guest of Honour; 17 Swayam Prabha Studios, Alumni Portal and IGNOU Profile 2026 inaugurated

NEW DELHI, April 7, 2026

The Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, presided over the 39th Convocation Ceremony of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) as Chief Guest in New Delhi on Monday, conferring degrees to over 3.24 lakh graduating learners across Regional Centres in India. Shri Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, graced the occasion as Guest of Honour.

The dignitaries jointly conferred Ph.D. degrees and Gold Medals to meritorious students. The ceremony was also attended at various Regional Centres across India by Governors and dignitaries including Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju in Goa and Shri Indra Sena Reddy Nallu in Tripura.

The Vice President inaugurated 17 Swayam Prabha Studios across IGNOU Regional Centres to enhance digital education delivery, particularly for remote and underserved regions.

He also inaugurated IGNOU Profile 2026 and a dedicated Alumni Portal connecting approximately 5.3 million alumni worldwide, enabling networking, mentorship, and lifelong learning.

Congratulating learners, Shri Radhakrishnan praised IGNOU’s contribution to inclusive education and highlighted its NAAC A++ accreditation and top NIRF ranking in Open Learning. He emphasized the role of education in social upliftment and national development.

Lieutenant Governor Shri Taranjit Singh Sandhu encouraged students to continue learning and uphold values of integrity, hard work, and societal contribution in a rapidly evolving digital world.

IGNOU Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the university’s commitment to inclusive education, multilingual knowledge systems, and expanding opportunities for learners from diverse backgrounds.

The convocation marked a significant milestone for graduates across 51 Regional Centres and five Overseas Centres, symbolizing academic achievement, perseverance, and IGNOU’s continued commitment to accessible and quality education.

PRESS RELEASE

VICE PRESIDENT TO ATTEND IGNOU CONVOCATION

New Delhi, 04 April 2026

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) will host its 39th Convocation Ceremony on Tuesday, 7 April 2026 in New Delhi, celebrating the academic achievements of its graduating students and recognising their excellence across disciplines.

The ceremony will be graced by the Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, who will deliver the convocation address as the Chief Guest. The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Shri Taranjit Singh Sandhu, will be the Guest of Honour for the occasion.

The dignitaries will confer Ph.D. degrees and gold medals to meritorious students. Other distinguished dignitaries attending the event include:

• Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Hon’ble Governor of Goa (Regional Centre Panaji)
• Shri Indra Sena Reddy Nallu, Hon’ble Governor of Tripura (Regional Centre Agartala)

They will be joined by eminent guests from academia, governance, and public life.

As the University prepares for the ceremony, graduates across 51 Regional Centres and 5 Overseas Centres are set to celebrate this important academic milestone. The Convocation Ceremony marks a significant moment in the lives of students, reflecting years of dedication, perseverance, and academic pursuit.

It also reaffirms IGNOU’s commitment to fostering excellence, innovation, and inclusive education, aligned with national development goals.

Rajesh Sharma
PRO, IGNOU

Media Release

Issued on: 10 March, 2026 by IGNOU Delhi

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) through its School of Gender and Development Studies (SOGDS), Committees Against Sexual Harassment (CASH Committees – Apex Committee ACASH, IGNOU Committee ICASH and Regional Services Division RSD CASH) and National Centre for Innovations in Distance Education (NCIDE) celebrated International Women’s Day with a series of activities at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Convention Centre on March 10, 2026. The activities were relayed live to the IGNOU Regional Centres across the country.

The celebrations began with a Walkathon at the IGNOU Campus symbolizing solidarity and commitment to women’s empowerment. The Walkathon was flagged off by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, Prof. Uma Kanjilal.

This was followed by the inauguration of the exhibition titled “Celebrating the Spirit of SwadeShePreneurs” at the Convention Centre Lobby by the Guest Speaker Smt. Mughda Sinha, IAS, Managing Director, India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), along with the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of IGNOU. The exhibition highlighted women entrepreneurs and their contributions to self-reliance and inclusive development.

In her Welcome Address, the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, Prof. Uma Kanjilal emphasized the University’s strong commitment to gender inclusion in education. She highlighted that IGNOU has achieved gender parity in education, reflecting the institution’s significant role in expanding access to higher education for women across the country, particularly those belonging to disadvantaged groups and regions.

She also highlighted the progression of women in IGNOU’s workspaces, noting that 15 out of the 21 Schools of Study are headed by women Directors and that a significant proportion of women contribute as faculty members, administrators, and research scholars. She emphasized that Open, Distance and Digital Learning (ODDL) has immense potential in further strengthening women’s participation in higher education.

The Special Lecture delivered by Smt. Mughda Sinha, IAS, Managing Director, ITDC, was one of the key highlights of the celebrations. Her lecture on “Women at the Helm” provided deep insights into women’s career progression in the context of equality of opportunity and equity of outcomes.

She appreciated IGNOU for providing quality and affordable education to all sections of society, particularly women, who form a significant proportion of the University’s enrolment. She emphasized that education fosters both equality and equity, empowering women to contribute meaningfully to social and economic development.

A United Nations documentary titled “Women Rise for All” was also screened during the programme, presenting global perspectives on gender equality and highlighting its various dimensions.

Earlier in the programme, Prof. Annu J. Thomas, Director, School of Gender and Development Studies, introduced the theme and objectives of the event, emphasizing the importance of promoting gender equality, entrepreneurship, and leadership among women.

Dr. Ranjita Panda, Chairperson of RSD CASH, presented an overview of the Committees Against Sexual Harassment (CASH) and discussed the initiatives taken by IGNOU to ensure a safe and supportive environment for women across academic and administrative spaces.

As part of the celebrations, certificates and mementos were presented to women entrepreneurs by the Guest Speaker and the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of IGNOU in recognition of their efforts and achievements.

The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Prof. Jitendra Kumar Srivastava, Registrar (Administration Division), who thanked the dignitaries, organizers and participants for making the celebration meaningful and impactful.

National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has partnered with Commonwealth of Learning (COL) in a collaborative project titled “Transforming Indian Higher Education through Online Learning: Capacity Building for Improving Quality Assurance Systems.” The project focuses on strengthening quality in online education and aims to develop a handbook for Quality Assurance in designing and delivering online programmes through open and dual-mode universities.

NAAC, in collaboration with the Special Project Unit of IGNOU, organized the first national-level consultative workshop on opportunities and challenges for quality assurance in online education on 06–07 March 2026. The workshop was attended by Vice Chancellors and Deans/Directors of Online Education from across the country.

The workshop was inaugurated by Mr. Anandrao Patil, Additional Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of India. He emphasized that the National Education Policy 2020 promotes quality, innovation, and skill-based education. He also highlighted the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in enabling multilingual education and noted that nearly 7 million learners are currently pursuing online education in India.

Prof. Peter Scott, President and CEO of the Commonwealth of Learning, addressed the participants online and highlighted the importance of collaboration in increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) to 50% by 2035. He also stressed the need for upskilling, reskilling, and cross-skilling of the workforce and suggested creating a global community of practice for knowledge sharing.

Prof. Ganesan Kannabiran, Director of NAAC and Project Lead, explained that NAAC is focusing not only on accreditation but also on capacity development of institutional leaders and faculty. Through international collaboration, NAAC aims to collect best practices and support universities in developing quality online programmes.

Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, highlighted the importance of engaging e-Learning Materials, effective learning design tools, and capacity building for faculty and administrators. She also referred to the UGC-DEB framework as an important tool for internal quality assurance.

Dr. Britta Zawada, representing the Council on Higher Education in South Africa, noted that the workshop provides an important platform for bringing together global expert insights and experiences in quality assurance for online education.

The deliberations are expected to contribute significantly to strengthening quality assurance mechanisms for online education in India and support the broader goals of higher education reform and expansion.

Regards
Rajesh Sharma
PRO

PRESS RELEASE

Issued on: 25 February 2026 by IGNOU Delhi

Ms Seema, an IGNOU alumna, who appeared for a job interview at IGNOU’s Mega Campus Placement Drive, shared how IGNOU helped her in pursuing the right course and also finding the right job after she had to discontinue her corporate career due to personal obligations. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), democratizing education and job avenues for several students like her, successfully conducted a mega on-campus placement drive. The event was organized by the Campus Placement Cell (CPC) on Wednesday, 25 February 2026 at the B. R. Ambedkar Convention Centre in Delhi.

The placement drive witnessed an overwhelming response, marked by robust participation from learners, alumni, and recruiters. Catering to a vast learner base from every stream, CPC invited six recruiting companies from varied industry verticals including Fin-tech, IT, BPO, Banking, Hospitality, Travel and Tourism, Ed Tech, Aviation, and Healthcare domains.

Candidates participated in interviews with respective recruiting companies after registration. CPC also organised a pre-placement webinar on 24 February to enhance communication skills for job readiness. Prof. Paramita Suklabaidya of SOTHSM, IGNOU, offered insights on soft skills, digital footprint management, dressing etiquette, and body language for interviews.

Recruiters offered positions such as Academic Counsellors, Talent Acquisition Managers, Sales Managers, Customer Care Executives, Technical Support Staff, Travel Executives, Tele Executives, Backend Office Interns, Aviation Ground Handling Staff, Passenger Service Executives, and Healthcare/Homecare Professionals across Delhi NCR.

IGNOU’s Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal interacted with recruiters and emphasized the relevance of industry-oriented courses offered by the University. She highlighted IGNOU’s commitment to reaching learners through its Regional Centres and Learner Support Centres.

Recruiters including representatives from Saarthi IAS, Bajaj Capital, Exotique Expeditions Pvt. Ltd., and Amoli Holistique Healthcare appreciated IGNOU’s diverse learner base and well-prepared candidates. Alumni and current learners expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided at a large scale.

With its nationwide reach and strong industry collaborations, IGNOU continues to bridge the gap between academic instruction and employment opportunities, reinforcing its learner-centric mission.

PRESS RELEASE

Issued on: 27 January, 2026 by IGNOU Delhi

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), through its Campus Placement Cell (CPC), successfully conducted its third consecutive placement drive in Delhi on January 27, 2026. The on-campus mega placement drive at the B. R. Ambedkar Convention Centre, IGNOU witnessed an overwhelming turnout, reflecting enthusiastic participation from learners and alumni alike.

Recruiting firms across hospitality, business development, travel, and aviation sectors participated and offered wide ranging roles including Backend Office Support Staff, Office Administration / Graphic Designer, Sales and Operations (Travel), Business Development Executive, Customer Service Agent (CSA), and Customer Service Host (CSH).

Mr. Sanjay Pahwah from Pracxis Communications expressed his pleasure witnessing an impressive turnout of job-seekers and stated that IGNOU offers a strong talent pool across domains. Ms. Srishti Sah (CII) and Mr. Tanmay Mishra (Bird Flight Services) shared that IGNOU’s diverse learner base consists of highly motivated, hardworking and enthusiastic participants.

The event marked another successful completion of the recruitment drive with job offers and next round selections awarded to meritorious candidates. Among IGNOU alumni, Amul Saini (2024 Sociology batch) felt elated after being selected for the aviation sector and acknowledged that IGNOU gave a desired jump-start to his career at an early stage.

IGNOU’s Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal extended her well wishes to learners, alumni and recruiters. She emphasized that IGNOU has proved to be a platform where talent meets opportunity and highlighted that the placement cell’s efforts support the Government of India’s mission of bridging the employability gap.

Leveraging its national presence and industry partnerships, the placement initiative continues to connect academic learning with real-world employment opportunities, reaffirming IGNOU’s learner-focused role.

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU, New Delhi

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has significantly advanced its mandate of integrating education with employability through strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s national skilling ecosystem. Through collaborations with MSDE, CII, GIZ GmbH and CISCO, IGNOU is expanding access to industry-relevant, future-ready skill education across the country.

A major milestone is the signing of an MoU between IGNOU and MSDE to implement skill training under PMKVY 4.0 and establish dedicated Skill Centres across IGNOU Regional Centres.

These centres will deliver NSQF-aligned industry-focused training programmes, integrating vocational skilling with academic pathways in line with NEP 2020.

The initiative emphasizes internships, apprenticeships, placement support, and digital monitoring through Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH), with special focus on women, rural youth, first-generation learners and informal sector workers.

• Unpacking AI: Practical Foundations for Non-Tech Students
• Unpacking Data: Practical Foundations for Non-Tech Students

IGNOU also signed MoUs with CISCO to establish a Networking Centre of Excellence and with CII to launch Career Edge Academy for employment-focused skill training.

Through these initiatives, IGNOU continues to strengthen the integration of higher education with skill development to enhance employability and national workforce preparedness.

MEDIA RELEASE

Indira Gandhi National Open University Extends Admission Deadline for ODL and Online Programmes till 15th March 2026

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has extended the last date for submission of applications for admission to its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online Programmes for the January 2026 Session up to 15th March 2026.

The extension is applicable to all ODL and Online Programmes offered by the University except Certificate Programmes and Semester-based Programmes.

IGNOU, the world’s largest open university, offers a wide range of Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, and Postgraduate Diploma programmes designed to provide flexible, affordable, and quality higher education to learners across the country and abroad. The University’s robust learner support system, digital learning resources, and extensive network of Regional Centres and Study Centres make higher education accessible to diverse sections of society.

Admission Portals:

• ODL Programmes:
  https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
• ODL Programmes:
  https://ignouiop.samarth.edu.in/

Prospective learners are advised to carefully read the eligibility criteria and programme details available on the respective admission portals before submitting their applications.

IGNOU encourages aspiring learners who have not yet applied to take advantage of this extended opportunity and complete their admission formalities well before the revised deadline.

For further details, please visit the official website of the University at https://www.ignou.ac.in/ पर जाएं।

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MEDIA RELEASE

इंदिरा गांधी नेशनल ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी ने ODL और ऑनलाइन प्रोग्राम के लिए एडमिशन की आखिरी तारीख 15 मार्च 2026 तक बढ़ा दी है

इंदिरा गांधी नेशनल ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी (IGNOU) ने जनवरी 2026 सेशन के लिए अपने ओपन एंड डिस्टेंस लर्निंग (ODL) और ऑनलाइन प्रोग्राम में एडमिशन के लिए एप्लीकेशन जमा करने की आखिरी तारीख 15 मार्च 2026 तक बढ़ा दी है।

यह एक्सटेंशन सर्टिफिकेट प्रोग्राम और सेमेस्टर-बेस्ड प्रोग्राम को छोड़कर यूनिवर्सिटी द्वारा ऑफर किए जाने वाले सभी ODL और ऑनलाइन प्रोग्राम पर लागू है।

IGNOU, दुनिया की सबसे बड़ी ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी, देश और विदेश में स्टूडेंट्स को फ्लेक्सिबल, अफोर्डेबल और क्वालिटी हायर एजुकेशन देने के लिए डिज़ाइन किए गए अंडरग्रेजुएट, पोस्टग्रेजुएट, डिप्लोमा और पोस्टग्रेजुएट डिप्लोमा प्रोग्राम की एक बड़ी रेंज ऑफर करती है। यूनिवर्सिटी का मजबूत लर्नर सपोर्ट सिस्टम, डिजिटल लर्निंग रिसोर्स और रीजनल सेंटर और स्टडी सेंटर का बड़ा नेटवर्क समाज के अलग-अलग वर्गों के लिए हायर एजुकेशन को आसान बनाता है।

एडमिशन पोर्टल:

• ODL प्रोग्राम:
  https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
• ऑनलाइन प्रोग्राम::
  https://ignouiop.samarth.edu.in/

जो स्टूडेंट्स एडमिशन लेना चाहते हैं, उन्हें सलाह दी जाती है कि वे अपनी एप्लीकेशन जमा करने से पहले, एडमिशन पोर्टल पर मौजूद एलिजिबिलिटी क्राइटेरिया और प्रोग्राम की डिटेल्स ध्यान से पढ़ें।

IGNOU उन स्टूडेंट्स को बढ़ावा देता है जिन्होंने अभी तक अप्लाई नहीं किया है कि वे इस बढ़े हुए मौके का फ़ायदा उठाएं और बदली हुई डेडलाइन से पहले अपनी एडमिशन की फॉर्मैलिटीज़ पूरी कर लें।

ज़्यादा जानकारी के लिए, कृपया यूनिवर्सिटी की ऑफिशियल वेबसाइट https://www.ignou.ac.in/ पर जाएं।

Rajesh Sharma (President of India Awardee for the Best Bharat Scouts and Guides Rover)
Public Relations Officer / Social Media Champion

Media Release

IGNOU के जनवरी 2026 सेशन के लिए कई तरह के सर्टिफिकेट कोर्स के लिए एडमिशन शुरू हो गए हैं।

Rajesh Sharma (President of India Awardee for the Best Bharat Scouts and Guides Rover)
Public Relations Officer / Social Media Champion
Block-11 Room No. 13 B
Maidan Garhi, IGNOU Campus
New Delhi-110068

Rajesh Sharma (President of India Awardee for the Best Bharat Scouts and Guides Rover)
Public Relations Officer / Social Media Champion
Block-11 Room No. 13 B
Maidan Garhi, IGNOU Campus
New Delhi-110068

MEDIA RELEASE / मीडिया विज्ञप्ति

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The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) announces the online registration of Entrance Test for admission to the Post Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation Psychology (PGDRPC), July 2026 session through the Samarth Higher Education Admission Portal.

The programme is offered by the Discipline of Psychology, School of Social Sciences (SOSS) and aims to develop skilled professionals with theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in Rehabilitation Psychology.

About the Programme

• Disability and Rehabilitation
• Psychosocial Issues in Disability
• Rehabilitation Assessment and Counselling
• Community-based Rehabilitation
• Practical lab work in identification, assessment and intervention techniques

The programme follows the norms and guidelines of the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI).

Eligibility Criteria (As per RCI Norms & Regulations, 2017)

• Bachelor’s Degree (Regular Mode) with General Psychology in all three years; OR
• Master’s Degree in Psychology (Regular/Distance Mode); OR
• Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology (Regular/Distance Mode)

Minimum Marks: 55% for General Category and 50% for SC/ST/OBC-NCL candidates. Degree must be from a UGC-recognised University.

How to Apply

Registration Link: https://ignoupgdrpc.samarth.edu.in/index.php

e-Prospectus, General Instructions and FAQs: Click Here

Last Date of Online Registration: 05.03.2026

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इंदिरा गांधी राष्ट्रीय मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय (IGNOU) ने जुलाई 2026 सत्र के लिए पुनर्वास मनोविज्ञान में स्नातकोत्तर डिप्लोमा (PGDRPC) में प्रवेश हेतु ऑनलाइन पंजीकरण की घोषणा की है। आवेदन समार्थ उच्च शिक्षा प्रवेश पोर्टल के माध्यम से किया जा सकता है।

यह कार्यक्रम मनोविज्ञान अनुशासन, सामाजिक विज्ञान विद्यालय (SOSS) द्वारा संचालित किया जा रहा है तथा इसका उद्देश्य पुनर्वास मनोविज्ञान के क्षेत्र में कुशल पेशेवर तैयार करना है।

कार्यक्रम की मुख्य विशेषताएँ

• दिव्यांगता और पुनर्वास
• दिव्यांगता से संबंधित मनोसामाजिक मुद्दे
• पुनर्वास मूल्यांकन एवं परामर्श
• सामुदायिक आधारित पुनर्वास
• पहचान, मूल्यांकन एवं हस्तक्षेप तकनीकों में प्रायोगिक कार्य

यह कार्यक्रम भारतीय पुनर्वास परिषद (RCI) के मानकों एवं दिशा-निर्देशों के अनुरूप है।

पात्रता मानदंड (RCI नियम 2017 के अनुसार)

• स्नातक डिग्री (नियमित मोड) जिसमें तीनों वर्षों में सामान्य मनोविज्ञान विषय हो; या
• मनोविज्ञान में स्नातकोत्तर डिग्री (नियमित/दूरस्थ मोड); या
• परामर्श मनोविज्ञान में स्नातकोत्तर डिग्री (नियमित/दूरस्थ मोड)

न्यूनतम अंक: सामान्य वर्ग हेतु 55% तथा SC/ST/OBC-NCL हेतु 50%। डिग्री UGC मान्यता प्राप्त विश्वविद्यालय से होनी चाहिए।

आवेदन प्रक्रिया

पंजीकरण लिंक: https://ignoupgdrpc.samarth.edu.in/index.php

ई-प्रॉस्पेक्टस, सामान्य निर्देश एवं FAQs: यहाँ क्लिक करें

ऑनलाइन पंजीकरण की अंतिम तिथि: 05.03.2026

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Rajesh Sharma / राजेश शर्मा
Public Relations Officer / जनसंपर्क अधिकारी
IGNOU, New Delhi / इग्नू, नई दिल्ली

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Media Update

Global Exposure Opportunity for IGNOU Learners

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The National Centre for Innovations in Distance Education (NCIDE) and Special Projects Unit (SPU) are happy to announce that Five students from IGNOU, enrolled in the MCA (New) 3rd and 4th semesters and the MBA (Marketing Management) 3rd semester, have been selected by Leipzig University and the SEPT Competence Centre to participate in the SEPT Innovation Challenge. The Challenge is being organized with the support and collaboration of GIZ Digital Skills to Succeed in Asia (DS2S) Project and the DAAD Global Talent Ignite (GTI) Project. The challenge connects high potential international students with German Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) that are looking for innovative ideas, fresh perspectives, and creative problem solvers.

The Participants will receive structured online training in innovation management, providing a solid theoretical foundation for addressing real-world challenges. This knowledge will be applied in practice during an Innovation Hackathon, where students will work in teams on challenges provided by Innovative German SMEs. The SEPT Innovation Challenge aims to gain new competencies in innovation management. The purpose is to enhance skills of the students to enable students to gain industry-specific expertise by working on real-world projects, build valuable networks with professionals from the German SME ecosystem and understand the inner workings of Germany’s Innovative Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

The teams participating in both the phases will receive an official certificate upon successful completion of the program. Winning teams will also be invited to Germany for approximately four weeks to continue working on the challenges.

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Rajesh Sharma
PRO

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU Successfully Conducts Pan-India Placement Drive

IGNOU’s six Regional Centresin association with CPC offer diverse career opportunities for learners

Issued on: February 15, 2026 by IGNOU (HQs)Delhi

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) through its Campus Placement Cell (CPC) achieved a commendable milestone by successfully hosting a nation-wide placement drive for its enrolled students and alumni across six Regional Centres in India. This mega placement drive organized by the CPC in coordination with IGNOU’sBijapur, Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Bangalore and Dehradun Regional Centres (RCs) witnessed an overwhelming participation from its learners across the nation. The tireless and dedicated efforts ofall six Regional Centres to ensure learners secure their dream jobs have been a remarkable feat.

The four-day long placement drive concluded with more than 70 learners from Karnataka, Maharashtra and Uttarakhand regions securing jobs from leading Fintech, IT and BPO firms. Aiming to facilitate gainful employment opportunities for IGNOU learners and alumni, recruiting firms offered wide ranging roles of Assistant Relationship Manager, Customer Support Executive, HR Generalist, Sale Expert, Collection Officer and other key roles with attractive salary packages and incentives. Conducting a series of industry-oriented placement drives across multiple cities in February, IGNOU reaffirms commitment to strengthening learner employability and industry engagements. The coordinated drives created diverse career opportunities for learners and alumni across regions through partnerships with leading industry organizations.

IGNOU Regional Centre Dehradun organized a large-scale placement drive on February 12, 2026, jointly with the Campus Placement Cell (IGNOU) and the Confederation of Indian Industry’s (CII) relentless efforts. Learners from Uttarakhand and neighboring districts of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi participated in significant numbers. During the inaugural session, CII representative Mr. Vaibhav Gupta (State Head) encouraged participants and introduced recruiting organizations. The day-long selection process concluded with a promising number of candidates being selected and shortlisted.IGNOU Regional Centre Bengaluru conducted its placement drive on February 11, 2026, in association with PolicyBazaar, to serve the objective of extending employment opportunities to a broad learner base. As part of an extensive outreach effort, more than 5,000 IGNOU learners and alumni were contacted through digital communication channels. Interviews were conducted by the company’s HR representative, Mr. Abdullah, who evaluated candidates for suitable roles.IGNOU Regional Centre Mumbai organized a campus placement drive on February 10, 2026, in collaboration with On Road Logisol Pvt. Ltd. and PolicyBazaar. Company representatives, including senior officials and recruitment staff, interacted with candidates and conducted interviews at the Regional Centre premises.Similarly, IGNOU Regional Centre Pune held its placement drive on February 11, 2026. A total of 47 candidates appeared for HR interviews with PolicyBazaar for the role of Assistant Relationship Manager across multiple locations in Maharashtra.IGNOU Regional Centre Bijapur through its placement drive on February 13, 2026 witnessed enthusiastic participation from candidates of northern district of Karnataka. Policy Bazaar’s HR representatives, Ms. HamidaSharin and Mr. Abdullha Zaid, conducted virtual interview session and expressed their satisfaction with the arrangements. Likewise, IGNOU Regional Centre Nagpur, fulfilling the aspirations of learners from Vidarbha, held its placement drive on February 13, 2026 with Policy Bazaar holding its virtual recruitment sessions for learners across different courses. These multi-city placement initiatives highlight IGNOU’s sustained efforts to build strong industry linkages and provide structured placement support to its learners through a nationwide Regional Centre network.

Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal on this accomplishment appreciated the efforts of Campus Placement Cell, Regional Centres, and participating industry partners for working together to create impactful employment pathways for IGNOU learners. She said “such Pan-India drives offer a massive recruitment platform for better talent acquisition and diverse career opportunities. Such initiatives not only enhance professional prospects but also reinforce our mission of inclusive and career-oriented education. We are contributing to nation’sdeclining unemployment rate by making every effort to bridge the employability gaps. I congratulate all selected and shortlisted candidates and wish them continued success in their professional journeys”.

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IGNOU ने पूरे भारत में प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव सफलतापूर्वक चलाया

IGNOU के छह रीजनल सेंटर्स, CPC के साथ मिलकर स्टूडेंट्स को करियर के अलग-अलग मौके दे रहे हैं
जारी: 15 फरवरी, 2026, IGNOU (HQs) दिल्ली द्वारा

इंदिरा गांधी नेशनल ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी (IGNOU) ने अपने कैंपस प्लेसमेंट सेल (CPC) के ज़रिए भारत के छह रीजनल सेंटर्स में अपने एनरोल्ड स्टूडेंट्स और एल्युमनाई के लिए पूरे देश में प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव सफलतापूर्वक होस्ट करके एक बड़ी कामयाबी हासिल की। CPC द्वारा IGNOU के बीजापुर, मुंबई, नागपुर, पुणे, बैंगलोर और देहरादून रीजनल सेंटर्स (RCs) के साथ मिलकर ऑर्गनाइज़ किए गए इस मेगा प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव में देश भर के स्टूडेंट्स ने ज़बरदस्त हिस्सा लिया। स्टूडेंट्स को उनके सपनों की नौकरी दिलाने के लिए सभी छह रीजनल सेंटर्स की बिना थके और डेडिकेटेड कोशिशें एक शानदार कामयाबी रही हैं।

चार दिन तक चली प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव खत्म हुई, जिसमें कर्नाटक, महाराष्ट्र और उत्तराखंड रीजन्स के 70 से ज़्यादा स्टूडेंट्स को बड़ी फिनटेक, IT और BPO फर्मों में नौकरी मिली। IGNOU के स्टूडेंट्स और पुराने स्टूडेंट्स को नौकरी के अच्छे मौके देने के मकसद से, रिक्रूटिंग कंपनियों ने असिस्टेंट रिलेशनशिप मैनेजर, कस्टमर सपोर्ट एग्जीक्यूटिव, HR जनरलिस्ट, सेल एक्सपर्ट, कलेक्शन ऑफिसर और दूसरी खास भूमिकाओं के लिए अच्छे सैलरी पैकेज और इंसेंटिव दिए। फरवरी में कई शहरों में इंडस्ट्री-ओरिएंटेड प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव की एक सीरीज़ चलाकर, IGNOU ने स्टूडेंट्स की नौकरी पाने की क्षमता और इंडस्ट्री से जुड़ाव को मज़बूत करने का अपना वादा दोहराया। मिलकर चलाए गए इन ड्राइव ने बड़े इंडस्ट्री ऑर्गनाइज़ेशन के साथ पार्टनरशिप करके अलग-अलग इलाकों के स्टूडेंट्स और पुराने स्टूडेंट्स के लिए अलग-अलग तरह के करियर के मौके बनाए।

IGNOU रीजनल सेंटर देहरादून ने 12 फरवरी, 2026 को कैंपस प्लेसमेंट सेल (IGNOU) और कॉन्फेडरेशन ऑफ़ इंडियन इंडस्ट्री (CII) की लगातार कोशिशों के साथ मिलकर एक बड़े पैमाने पर प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव का आयोजन किया। उत्तराखंड और उत्तर प्रदेश के आस-पास के जिलों और दिल्ली से स्टूडेंट्स ने बड़ी संख्या में हिस्सा लिया। उद्घाटन सेशन के दौरान, CII के प्रतिनिधि श्री वैभव गुप्ता (स्टेट हेड) ने हिस्सा लेने वालों की हिम्मत बढ़ाई और रिक्रूटिंग ऑर्गनाइज़ेशन का परिचय दिया। दिन भर चले सिलेक्शन प्रोसेस का अंत अच्छी संख्या में कैंडिडेट के चुने जाने और शॉर्टलिस्ट किए जाने के साथ हुआ। IGNOU रीजनल सेंटर बेंगलुरु ने 11 फरवरी, 2026 को पॉलिसी बाज़ार के साथ मिलकर अपना प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव किया, ताकि ज़्यादा से ज़्यादा स्टूडेंट्स को नौकरी के मौके मिल सकें। एक बड़े आउटरीच प्रयास के तहत, 5,000 से ज़्यादा IGNOU लर्नर्स और एल्युमनाई से डिजिटल कम्युनिकेशन चैनल के ज़रिए संपर्क किया गया। कंपनी के HR रिप्रेजेंटेटिव, मिस्टर अब्दुल्ला ने इंटरव्यू लिए, जिन्होंने सही रोल के लिए कैंडिडेट्स को इवैल्यूएट किया। IGNOU रीजनल सेंटर मुंबई ने 10 फरवरी, 2026 को ऑन रोड लॉजिसोल प्राइवेट लिमिटेड और पॉलिसी बाज़ार के साथ मिलकर एक कैंपस प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव किया। कंपनी के रिप्रेजेंटेटिव, जिनमें सीनियर अधिकारी और रिक्रूटमेंट स्टाफ शामिल थे, ने कैंडिडेट्स से बातचीत की और रीजनल सेंटर परिसर में इंटरव्यू लिए। इसी तरह, IGNOU रीजनल सेंटर पुणे ने 11 फरवरी, 2026 को अपना प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव किया। महाराष्ट्र में कई जगहों पर असिस्टेंट रिलेशनशिप मैनेजर के रोल के लिए पॉलिसी बाज़ार के साथ HR इंटरव्यू के लिए कुल 47 कैंडिडेट्स मौजूद रहे। IGNOU रीजनल सेंटर बीजापुर ने 13 फरवरी, 2026 को अपने प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव के ज़रिए कर्नाटक के उत्तरी ज़िले के कैंडिडेट्स की तरफ़ से जोश के साथ हिस्सा लिया। पॉलिसी बाज़ार के HR रिप्रेज़ेंटेटिव, मिस हामिदा शरीन और मिस्टर अब्दुल्ला ज़ैद ने वर्चुअल इंटरव्यू सेशन किया और इंतज़ामों से खुश थे। इसी तरह, IGNOU रीजनल सेंटर नागपुर ने विदर्भ के स्टूडेंट्स की उम्मीदों को पूरा करते हुए, 13 फरवरी, 2026 को अपना प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव किया, जिसमें पॉलिसी बाज़ार ने अलग-अलग कोर्सेज़ के स्टूडेंट्स के लिए वर्चुअल रिक्रूटमेंट सेशन किए। ये मल्टी-सिटी प्लेसमेंट इनिशिएटिव्स IGNOU की लगातार कोशिशों को दिखाते हैं ताकि इंडस्ट्री के साथ मज़बूत लिंकेज बनाए जा सकें और देश भर में रीजनल सेंटर नेटवर्क के ज़रिए अपने स्टूडेंट्स को स्ट्रक्चर्ड प्लेसमेंट सपोर्ट दिया जा सके।

इस कामयाबी पर माननीय वाइस चांसलर प्रो. उमा कांजीलाल ने कैंपस प्लेसमेंट सेल, रीजनल सेंटर्स और हिस्सा लेने वाले इंडस्ट्री पार्टनर्स की कोशिशों की तारीफ़ की, जिन्होंने IGNOU स्टूडेंट्स के लिए असरदार रोज़गार के रास्ते बनाने के लिए मिलकर काम किया। उन्होंने कहा, “इस तरह के पैन-इंडिया ड्राइव बेहतर टैलेंट पाने और अलग-अलग तरह के करियर के मौकों के लिए एक बड़ा रिक्रूटमेंट प्लेटफॉर्म देते हैं। इस तरह की कोशिशें न सिर्फ प्रोफेशनल मौके बढ़ाती हैं बल्कि सबको साथ लेकर चलने वाली और करियर पर आधारित शिक्षा के हमारे मिशन को भी मज़बूत करती हैं। हम नौकरी की कमी को पूरा करने की पूरी कोशिश करके देश की घटती बेरोजगारी दर में योगदान दे रहे हैं। मैं सभी चुने गए और शॉर्टलिस्ट किए गए कैंडिडेट्स को बधाई देती हूं और उनके प्रोफेशनल सफर में लगातार सफलता की कामना करती हूं।”

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MEDIA RELEASE

IGNOU Invites Applications for Admission to B.Ed Programme
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) invites applications for admission to the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) programme.

Admission to the programme is through an Entrance Test, and registration is to be done online only via the official B.Ed admission portal. Applicants must complete the registration and application process through this portal as per the schedule given below.

Programme Details & Registration

• Programme: Bachelor of Education (B.Ed)
• Entrance Test Registration: Online only through the B.Ed Admission Portal – https://ignou-bed.samarth.edu.in/index.php
• Last Date of Online Registration: 27 February 2026 (No hard-copy forms will be accepted)
• Important Note: Candidates must complete the online registration first, then fill in the application/entrance test form on the portal.

Eligibility & Entrance Test
Eligibility for admission is based on fulfilling the minimum academic criteria (such as a Bachelor’s/Post-Graduate degree with required marks and NCTE recognised course requirements) and performance in the Entrance Test conducted by the University. Details on eligibility, syllabus, and entrance test guidelines are available on the admission portal.

Entrance Test & Admission Process

• The Entrance Test will be conducted on the date as mentioned in the official IGNOU notification (check the portal and IGNOU website for updates).
• Hall tickets for the Entrance Test will be uploaded on the official IGNOU website, www.ignou.ac.in

Application & Important Information

• Applicants should register on the portal first (using their email and personal details) and then complete the online application and payment.
• Candidates must ensure that they meet all eligibility requirements before applying.

For complete details on the programme, eligibility, entrance test guidelines, schedule and updates, please visit:
www.ignou.ac.in and https://ignou-bed.samarth.edu.in/index.php

Media Update

IGNOU identifies the next ‘Swadesiprenures’

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Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) in an effort to identify and promote Swadeshi entrepreneurs organized the SwaAI and Innovation Sprints along with the Swadesiprenures and Innovators’ Mahotsav 2026, a multi-stage innovation initiative focused on AI-enabled design, rapid prototyping, and startup-ready solutions. The event was held at IGNOU’s Baba Saheb Ambedkar Convention Centre on February 10, 2026. It convened by the National Centre for Innovations in Distance Education (NCIDE), in collaboration with the School of Computer and Information Sciences (SOCIS) to encourage students, alumni, and AI enthusiasts. Designed as a one-of-a-kind initiative, the event was conceived to foster innovation and highlight sprint initiatives including ‘Design Thinking and Idea Development using AI Tools’ and ‘Rapid Prototyping – AI Enthusiasts’ Day Out’.

This platform encouraged learners to shape their innovative ideas into functional prototypes and viable startup concepts using AI tools and methodologies. The initiative was primarily aimed to showcase innovative work by IGNOU learners, facilitate a productive interaction and networking among participants. The event featured AI-driven ideas and prototypes developed by learners during the earlier Sprint Events held in January and February this year. As the resource person, Mr. Mahipal Waldia, a senior IT and cybersecurity expert, engaged participants with practical insights on adopting technology, promoting cybersecurity awareness, strengthening data protection, and addressing real-world implementation issues. IGNOU’s official resource persons, Prof. Sandeep Singh Rawat (Director, SOCIS); Dr. Jyotsna Dikshit (Director, NCIDE); Dr. Sudhansh Sharma (Associate Professor, SOCIS); and Dr. Sujata Santosh (Assistant Director, NCIDE), mentored students by offering guidance on secure, responsible, and scalable AI solutions. The exhibits were reviewed by faculty members, researchers, and fellow learners. The Demo Day fostered collaboration, peer learning, and exposure as per industry-relevant expectations featuring presentations and showcased AI-based innovations and startup projects. IGNOU learners and alumni who developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) as a fully functional project, or an AI related startup solution, participated to showcase their talents. Event’s aim was to build an innovation ecosystem around AI-driven solutions, promote indigenous entrepreneurship, and provide a platform for innovators to demonstrate practical, scalable outcomes. Mr. Kunal Ambasta (student, MCAOL programme) was declared the winner with Mr. Ankit Jha (student, MCA New Programme) as the runner-up at the Demo Day and Swadesiprenures and Innovators’ Mahotsav 2026.

Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal congratulated the organizers and winners and said that “The Mahotsav has emerged as a dynamic platform for showcasing AI-based innovations and startups developed by our learners. It has fostered collaboration, experimentation, and technology-driven problem solving approaches among emerging innovators. Such initiatives will undoubtedly propel our academic growth to greater heights.”

The event promoted best innovations by awarding trophies, certificates and cash prizes by the organizers. These selected Swadeshipreneur will now be mentored, supported and incubated by the university.

Rajesh Sharma
PRO

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Event Photographs

PRESS RELEASE

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In a historic step towards promoting inclusivity and linguistic diversity in higher education, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Higher Education, Government of Odisha. The agreement paves the way for the delivery of all academic programmes of IGNOU in Odia, marking a significant move towards democratizing access to higher education in regional languages.

The MoU signing ceremony took place in Bhubaneswar in the august presence of Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Government of Odisha, and Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU. Senior officials from both institutions, faculty members, and students were also in attendance.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Suryabanshi Suraj highlighted the importance of mother tongue-based education in fostering meaningful learning. “This initiative aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes multilingualism as a key pillar of inclusive education. Offering higher education in Odia will empower students across the state, especially those from rural and tribal areas, and enhance the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER),” he said.

Prof. Uma Kanjilal underscored IGNOU’s commitment to accessible, equitable, and quality education for all. “As the people’s university, IGNOU is proud to partner with the Government of Odisha in taking higher education to the grassroots level. Delivering programmes in Odia will not only bridge the language barrier but also strengthen cultural identity and learner engagement,” she stated.

This collaboration is a significant step toward realizing the goal of a truly multilingual higher education ecosystem in India. By providing academic content, learner support, and assessment in Odia, the initiative will expand the reach of IGNOU’s diverse portfolio of undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate programmes to Odia-speaking learners across the state and beyond.

The partnership also sets a precedent for other states to follow, demonstrating how regional languages can serve as powerful vehicles for academic growth and social inclusion. The move is expected to boost the GER in Odisha and ensure that no learner is left behind due to linguistic barriers.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

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Event Photographs

PRESS NOTE

इग्नू देश भर में करियर के अवसर खोल रहा है

6 रीजनल सेंटर्स में IGNOU के स्टूडेंट्स के लिए अनगिनत करियर के मौके

जारी किया गया: 8 फरवरी, 2026 को IGNOU मुख्यालय दिल्ली द्वारा

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इंदिरा गांधी नेशनल ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी (IGNOU) अपने कैंपस प्लेसमेंट सेल की कोशिशों से देश भर के अलग-अलग रीजनल सेंटर्स में अपने रजिस्टर्ड स्टूडेंट्स और पूर्व छात्रों के लिए पूरे भारत में प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव आयोजित कर रहा है। IGNOU के रीजनल सेंटर्स बीजापुर, मुंबई, नागपुर, पुणे, बेंगलुरु और देहरादून 10 से 13 फरवरी, 2026 तक जॉब प्लेसमेंट करेंगे। कर्नाटक, महाराष्ट्र और उत्तराखंड क्षेत्रों के इच्छुक उम्मीदवारों को रजिस्टर करने और भाग लेने के लिए प्रोत्साहित किया जाता है।

फिनटेक, IT और BPO सेक्टर की प्रमुख कंपनियों ने असिस्टेंट रिलेशनशिप मैनेजर, कस्टमर सपोर्ट एग्जीक्यूटिव, HR जनरलिस्ट, सेल्स एक्सपर्ट, कलेक्शन ऑफिसर और आकर्षक सैलरी पैकेज और इंसेंटिव के साथ अन्य महत्वपूर्ण पदों के लिए भर्तियां निकाली हैं। प्लेसमेंट सेल ग्रेजुएट और अंडरग्रेजुएट IGNOU स्टूडेंट्स और पूर्व छात्रों से आवेदन आमंत्रित करता है जो अनुभवी या फ्रेशर हैं। उम्मीदवारों से अच्छी कम्युनिकेशन स्किल्स की उम्मीद की जाती है और उन्हें अपडेटेड CV, सरकार द्वारा जारी फोटो ID, IGNOU ID कार्ड, पैन कार्ड, दो पासपोर्ट साइज फोटो, शिक्षा प्रमाण पत्र और मार्कशीट (ओरिजिनल और फोटोकॉपी) के साथ-साथ अनुभव प्रमाण पत्र (यदि कोई हो) के साथ फॉर्मल कपड़ों में रिपोर्ट करना होगा। सभी संभावित उम्मीदवारों के लिए नीचे दिए गए लिंक का उपयोग करके पहले से रजिस्ट्रेशन करना अनिवार्य है:

https://www.ignou.ac.in/viewFile/CPC/notification/PlacementDrive_PanIndia_CPC_IGNOU.pdf

माननीय वाइस चांसलर प्रो. उमा कांजीलाल के संरक्षण में, IGNOU का पूरे भारत में प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव अलग-अलग क्षेत्रों और सामाजिक-आर्थिक पृष्ठभूमि के स्टूडेंट्स को अवसर प्रदान करता है। ऐसी पहल IGNOU के उन प्रयासों को दर्शाती हैं जिनका उद्देश्य अंतिम छोर तक स्टूडेंट्स की सेवा करना है। जैसा कि यूनिवर्सिटी इंडस्ट्री के अनुसार कुशल कार्यबल तैयार करने के एजेंडे के लिए प्रतिबद्ध है, सीखने को रोजगार से जोड़ना IGNOU की पहचान रही है।

IGNOU UNLOCKING CAREERS NATION-WIDE

Countless Career Opportunities for IGNOU learners across 6 Regional Centres

Issued on: February 08, 2026 by IGNOU HQs Delhi

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Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) through the efforts of its Campus Placement Cell is organising a pan-India placement drive for its enrolled students and alumni at various Regional Centres across the country. IGNOU Regional Centres Bijapur, Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Bangalore and Dehradun will conduct job placements from 10th to 13th February, 2026. Interested candidates from Karnataka, Maharashtra and Uttarakhand regions are encouraged to register and participate.

Leading recruiters from Fintech, IT and BPO sectors have listed positions for Assistant Relationship Manager, Customer Support Executive, HR Generalist, Sale Expert, Collection Officer and other key roles with attractive salary packages and incentives. The placement cell invites application from graduates and undergraduate IGNOU learners and alumni who are either experienced or fresher. Candidates are expected to have good communication skills and should report formally dressed with updated CV, Government-issued photo ID, IGNOU ID card, PAN Card, two passport-size photographs, education certificates and marksheets (original and photocopies) along with experience certificates (if any). Registration is mandatory in advance by all prospective candidates using the link below:

https://www.ignou.ac.in/viewFile/CPC/notification/PlacementDrive_PanIndia_CPC_IGNOU.pdf

With the patronage of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal, IGNOU’s pan-India placement drive extends opportunities to learners from diverse regions and socio-economic backgrounds. Such initiatives reflect IGNOU’s effort that are aimed at serving learners at the last mile. As the university commits to the agenda of preparing industry-aligned skilled workforce, facilitating learning to employability has been IGNOU’s defining edge.

Rajesh Sharma
PRO

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU Hosted Pre-Summit Event on ‘AI Enabled Future Ready Open, Distance and Digital Education (ODDE)’ Aligned with the AI Impact Summit 2026

IGNOU shaping the future of learning through ODDE AI Education Summit

Issued on: January 29, 2026 by IGNOU, New Delhi

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) hosted the prestigious official pre-summit event on ‘AI Enabled Future Ready Open, Distance, and Digital Education (ODDE)’ as part of the flagship ‘AI Impact Summit 2026’. The event held on January 29, 2026 at ITC Sheraton, New Delhi witnessed thematic verticals of ‘AI Innovation, Efficiency and Scalability in ODDE’; and ‘Resilience and Inclusivity - AI for Bridging Educational Divides’. The esteemed panelists representing leading organisations from University of London, MeitY, Ministry of Education (GoI), NAAC, AICTE, IITs, JNU, CDAC, Google, IBM, Microsoft, HP, and TCS iON deliberated upon advancing AI driven innovation in Open, Distance and Digital Education.

IGNOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal in her opening remarks thanked all stakeholders from government and private sectors. She shared her vision to transform IGNOU into an “agentic university” and emphasized IGNOU’s commitment to positioning India as a global AI innovation leader serving humanity.

Prof. Ganesan Kannabiran (Director, NAAC) offered insights into quality aspects of AI-enabled ODDE systems. Prof. Partha Pratim Chakraborty (IIT Kharagpur) emphasised computation paradigms—Symbolic, Statistical and Neural—and highlighted the need for a sovereign multilingual and multimodal AI model for India. The panel discussion featured representatives from Google, IBM, Microsoft, TCS iON, JNU and University of London.

The second session chaired by Prof. Ganesh Ramakrishnan (IIT Bombay) focused on BharatGen, the sovereign AI model of GoI. The panelists from AICTE, HP, MeitY and CDAC deliberated on resilience, inclusivity, learner-centric capacity building and ethical AI frameworks for ODDE institutions.

Prof. Nayantara Padhi, Director Special Project Unit, IGNOU and Organising Secretary of the event, stated that this was a first-of-its-kind global forum where industry, academia and government jointly deliberated on AI-enabled future-ready ODDE systems and developed actionable guidelines.

प्रेस विज्ञप्ति

इग्नू ने ‘AI एनेबल्ड फ्यूचर रेडी ओपन, डिस्टेंस और डिजिटल एजुकेशन (ODDE)’ पर प्री-समिट कार्यक्रम आयोजित किया

इंदिरा गांधी नेशनल ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी (इग्नू) ने ‘AI इम्पैक्ट समिट 2026’ के हिस्से के रूप में ‘AI एनेबल्ड फ्यूचर रेडी ओपन, डिस्टेंस और डिजिटल एजुकेशन (ODDE)’ पर आधिकारिक प्री-समिट कार्यक्रम की मेजबानी की। 29 जनवरी, 2026 को ITC शेरेटन, नई दिल्ली में आयोजित इस कार्यक्रम में AI इनोवेशन, दक्षता, स्केलेबिलिटी, लचीलापन और समावेशिता जैसे विषयों पर विचार-विमर्श किया गया।

इग्नू की कुलपति प्रो. उमा कांजीलाल ने सभी हितधारकों का आभार व्यक्त करते हुए भारत को वैश्विक AI इनोवेशन लीडर बनाने की प्रतिबद्धता दोहराई।

विभिन्न सत्रों में NAAC, IITs, AICTE, MeitY, CDAC, Google, IBM, Microsoft, HP और TCS iON के विशेषज्ञों ने ODDE में AI आधारित नवाचार, गुणवत्ता, समावेशन और क्षमता निर्माण पर विस्तृत चर्चा की।

Rajesh Sharma
(President of India Awardee for the Best Bharat Scouts and Guides Rover)
Public Relations Officer / Social Media Champion
Block-11 Room No. 13 B
Maidan Garhi, IGNOU Campus
New Delhi-110068

Event Photographs

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU On-Campus Recruitment Drive on 27 January 2026

From Learning to Earning

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), through its Campus Placement Cell (CPC), will organise an on-campus mega placement drive on 27 January, 2026 at the B. R. Ambedkar Convention Centre, IGNOU Campus, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi, commencing at 10:00 AM. The placement drive is exclusively open to IGNOU students and alumni and aims to provide diverse employment opportunities across the hospitality, business development, travel, and aviation sectors, reinforcing IGNOU’s commitment to enhancing learner employability and industry readiness.

Leading organisations participating in the drive include YS Hospitality, Pracxis Communications, and Bird Flight Services, offering a wide range of roles such as Backend Office Support Staff, Office Administration / Graphic Designer, Sales and Operations (Travel), Business Development Executive, Customer Service Agent (CSA), and Customer Service Host (CSH). Opportunities are open to freshers as well as experienced candidates, with eligibility criteria ranging from minimum 10+2 qualifications to graduates and MBA (Marketing) students, depending on the role. The positions offered by the recruiters also guarantee competitive salary packages as per industry and company norms.

IGNOU’s Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal said that “The placement drive underscores IGNOU’s strong industry interface and its role in facilitating meaningful career pathways for learners through structured campus placement initiatives”. “Witnessing the success of two earlier placement drives, we have now invited recruiters to our university campus for a higher footfall”, she adds. Candidates are advised to register in advance through the QR codes provided in the placement notices under announcements tab on university’s official website. Candidates should report formally dressed with two updated CVs, two recent passport size photographs, IGNOU identity card, government-issued ID, relevant educational and experience documents. Through this initiative, IGNOU reinforces its learner-centric role by connecting academic learning with real-world employment through its national reach and industry partnerships.

प्रेस विज्ञप्ति

इग्नू ऑन-कैंपस रिक्रूटमेंट ड्राइव 27 जनवरी 2026 को

सीखने से कमाई तक

इंदिरा गांधी राष्ट्रीय मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय (इग्नू), अपने कैंपस प्लेसमेंट सेल (CPC) के माध्यम से, 27 जनवरी, 2026 को बी. आर. अंबेडकर कन्वेंशन सेंटर, इग्नू कैंपस, मैदान गढ़ी, नई दिल्ली में सुबह 10:00 बजे से एक मेगा प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव का आयोजन करेगा। यह प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव विशेष रूप से इग्नू के छात्रों और पूर्व छात्रों के लिए है और इसका उद्देश्य हॉस्पिटैलिटी, बिजनेस डेवलपमेंट, ट्रैवल और एविएशन सेक्टर में रोजगार के विविध अवसर प्रदान करना है, जो सीखने वालों की रोजगार क्षमता और उद्योग के लिए तैयारी को बढ़ाने के लिए इग्नू की प्रतिबद्धता को मजबूत करता है।

इस ड्राइव में भाग लेने वाले प्रमुख संगठनों में YS हॉस्पिटैलिटी, Pracxis कम्युनिकेशंस और बर्ड फ्लाइट सर्विसेज शामिल हैं, जो बैकएंड ऑफिस सपोर्ट स्टाफ, ऑफिस एडमिनिस्ट्रेशन / ग्राफिक डिजाइनर, सेल्स एंड ऑपरेशंस (ट्रैवल), बिजनेस डेवलपमेंट एग्जीक्यूटिव, कस्टमर सर्विस एजेंट (CSA), और कस्टमर सर्विस होस्ट (CSH) जैसे कई तरह के पद दे रहे हैं। ये अवसर फ्रेशर्स के साथ-साथ अनुभवी उम्मीदवारों के लिए भी खुले हैं, जिसमें योग्यता मानदंड न्यूनतम 10+2 योग्यता से लेकर ग्रेजुएट और MBA (मार्केटिंग) छात्रों तक हैं, जो पद पर निर्भर करता है। रिक्रूटर द्वारा दिए गए पदों पर उद्योग और कंपनी के मानदंडों के अनुसार प्रतिस्पर्धी वेतन पैकेज की भी गारंटी है।

इग्नू की माननीय कुलपति प्रो. उमा कांजिलाल ने कहा कि “यह प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव इग्नू के मजबूत उद्योग इंटरफेस और संरचित कैंपस प्लेसमेंट पहलों के माध्यम से सीखने वालों के लिए सार्थक करियर मार्ग को सुविधाजनक बनाने में इसकी भूमिका को रेखांकित करता है”। “दो पहले के प्लेसमेंट ड्राइव की सफलता को देखते हुए, हमने अब अधिक लोगों की भागीदारी के लिए रिक्रूटर को अपने विश्वविद्यालय परिसर में आमंत्रित किया है”, वह आगे कहती हैं। उम्मीदवारों को सलाह दी जाती है कि वे विश्वविद्यालय की आधिकारिक वेबसाइट पर घोषणाओं टैब के तहत प्लेसमेंट नोटिस में दिए गए QR कोड के माध्यम से पहले से पंजीकरण करें। उम्मीदवारों को औपचारिक पोशाक में दो अपडेटेड CV, दो हालिया पासपोर्ट आकार के फोटो, इग्नू पहचान पत्र, सरकार द्वारा जारी आईडी, संबंधित शैक्षिक और अनुभव दस्तावेजों के साथ रिपोर्ट करना चाहिए। इस पहल के माध्यम से, इग्नू अपनी राष्ट्रीय पहुंच और उद्योग साझेदारी के माध्यम से शैक्षणिक शिक्षा को वास्तविक दुनिया के रोजगार से जोड़कर अपनी शिक्षार्थी-केंद्रित भूमिका को मजबूत करता है।

Rajesh Sharma
(President of India Awardee for the Best Bharat Scouts and Guides Rover)
Public Relations Officer / Social Media Champion
Block-11 Room No. 13 B
Maidan Garhi, IGNOU Campus
New Delhi-110068

Job-Drive.jpg Job-Drive-1.jpg Job-Drive-2.jpg

PRESS RELEASE
IGNOU to Host Pre-Summit Event on
‘AI Enabled Future Ready Open, Distance and Digital Education (ODDE)’
Aligned with the AI Impact Summit 2026
IGNOU leads the way in AI enabled ODDE for the Future
Issued on: January 27, 2026 by IGNOU, New Delhi

>The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is organising India’s flagship pre-summit event titled, ‘AI Enabled Future Ready Open, Distance and Digital Education (ODDE)’ in alignment with the AI Impact Summit 2026 on January 29, 2026 in New Delhi. The event directly contributes to the Summit’s core theme, “Impact of AI on People, Planet and Progress”, with a focused emphasis on the thematic verticals of AI Innovation, Efficiency and Scalability in ODDE; and Resilience and Inclusivity to bridge educational divides through AI. The event is supported by leading global technology organisations, including Google, HP, IBM, Open AI, Microsoft and MeitY (GoI) reflecting a strong commitment to advancing AI driven innovation in education. The event seeks to demonstrate how Open, Distance and Digital Education, when amplified through Artificial Intelligence, can ensure inclusive, equitable, and sustainable access to education for diverse and marginalised communities, particularly across the Global South, while positioning education systems to respond effectively to future societal and technological challenges.

The event is designed to showcase India’s leadership in leveraging AI for inclusive, transnational ODDE systems serving some of the world’s most diverse learner populations, while generating operational policy insights which can be implemented through actionable policy insights. It aims to foster meaningful global collaboration among IGNOU, other ODDE institutions, industry partners especially from the Global South, and AI technology stakeholders to develop scalable and localised solutions. In addition, the deliberations will focus on creating practical frameworks for AI adoption in resource constrained ODDE contexts, formulating concrete policy recommendations for presentation at the main AI Impact Summit 2026 by Government of India, and building sustained momentum for future international partnerships in the AI education domain.

IGNOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal said that “IGNOU is proud to convene this pioneering pre-summit forum, leveraging its vast learner ecosystem to demonstrate how AI can contribute to the ODDE mode. With distinguished industry stakeholders and state partners already working on the AI – Education model, this summit will bring forth effective recommendations, frameworks and partnerships for the ODDE. This event reflects IGNOU commitment to GoI’s vision of positioning India as global AI innovation leader serving humanity.” Through this pre-summit event IGNOU aims to showcase from its unique role as a pan India and transnational educator serving approximately 3.9 million learners across India and abroad through its overseas centres. As a policy pioneer, IGNOU aims to lead the AI-ODDE dialogue by translating the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 into extensible ODDE models, and as a technology democratiser demonstrating that world-class AI enabled education is achievable even in resource constrained settings.

Rajesh Sharma (President of India Awardee for the Best Bharat Scouts and Guides Rover)
Public Relations Officer / Social Media Champion
Block-11 Room No. 13 B
Maidan Garhi, IGNOU Campus
New Delhi-110068

Media Release IGNOU Invites Applications for MBA Programmes for January 2026 Admission Session

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has announced admissions to its Master of Business Administration (MBA) programmes for the January 2026 admission cycle. Offered through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode by the School of Management Studies (SOMS), the MBA programmes are designed to meet contemporary industry requirements while ensuring academic rigour and learner flexibility.
The MBA programme is an AICTE-recognized postgraduate degree, developed by renowned management experts and aligned with the evolving needs of business and management professions. The curriculum covers diverse functional areas and integrates current industry practices, making it suitable for both fresh graduates and working professionals seeking career advancement.

Programme Highlights

• AICTE-approved MBA degree
• Contemporary curriculum with updated study material
• Flexible learning through Open and Distance Learning mode
• Affordable fee structure
• Offered across India and in selected countries abroad
• Multilingual support (English, Hindi, and Odia for select courses)

Programme Details

• Programme Name: Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Programme Type: Degree
• Duration: 2 Years
• Medium of Instruction: English / Hindi / Odia
• School: School of Management Studies (SOMS)

MBA Specialisations Offered

• MBA (Business Administration)
• MBA (Agribusiness Management) – MBAABM
• MBA (Construction Management) – MBACN
• MBA (Financial Management) – MBAFM
• MBA (Health Care and Hospital Management) – MBAHCHM
• MBA (Human Resource Management) – MBAHM
• MBA (Logistics & Supply Chain Management) – MBALS
• MBA (Marketing Management) – MBAMM
• MBA (Operations Management) – MBAOM

Eligibility
Candidates must have passed a Bachelor’s Degree of at least 3 years duration with:

• Minimum 50% marks (45% for candidates belonging to reserved categories)

More Information
Prospective learners can get more information at: https://www.ignou.ac.in/schools/programme/MBA
Admissions are open for the January 2026 session, and eligible candidates are advised to apply within the prescribed timelines.

मीडिया विज्ञप्ति इग्नू ने जनवरी 2026 एडमिशन सेशन के लिए MBA प्रोग्राम के लिए आवेदन आमंत्रित किए हैं

इंदिरा गांधी नेशनल ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी (इग्नू) ने जनवरी 2026 एडमिशन साइकिल के लिए अपने मास्टर ऑफ बिजनेस एडमिनिस्ट्रेशन (MBA) प्रोग्राम में एडमिशन की घोषणा की है। स्कूल ऑफ मैनेजमेंट स्टडीज (SOMS) द्वारा ओपन और डिस्टेंस लर्निंग (ODL) मोड के माध्यम से पेश किए जाने वाले MBA प्रोग्राम को अकादमिक कठोरता और सीखने वालों की सुविधा सुनिश्चित करते हुए समकालीन उद्योग की आवश्यकताओं को पूरा करने के लिए डिज़ाइन किया गया है।
MBA प्रोग्राम एक AICTE-मान्यता प्राप्त पोस्टग्रेजुएट डिग्री है, जिसे जाने-माने मैनेजमेंट विशेषज्ञों द्वारा विकसित किया गया है और यह व्यवसाय और प्रबंधन व्यवसायों की बढ़ती जरूरतों के अनुरूप है। पाठ्यक्रम में विभिन्न कार्यात्मक क्षेत्रों को शामिल किया गया है और वर्तमान उद्योग प्रथाओं को एकीकृत किया गया है, जो इसे नए स्नातकों और करियर में उन्नति चाहने वाले कामकाजी पेशेवरों दोनों के लिए उपयुक्त बनाता है।

प्रोग्राम की मुख्य बातें

AICTE-अनुमोदित MBA डिग्री

अपडेटेड स्टडी मटीरियल के साथ समकालीन पाठ्यक्रम

ओपन और डिस्टेंस लर्निंग मोड के माध्यम से लचीली शिक्षा किफायती

शुल्क संरचना पूरे भारत में और विदेशों के चुनिंदा देशों में उपलब्ध बहुभाषी सहायता (चुनिंदा पाठ्यक्रमों के लिए अंग्रेजी, हिंदी और ओडिया)

प्रोग्राम विवरण प्रोग्राम का नाम: मास्टर ऑफ बिजनेस एडमिनिस्ट्रेशन (MBA)

प्रोग्राम का प्रकार: डिग्री अवधि: 2 वर्ष शिक्षा का माध्यम: अंग्रेजी / हिंदी / ओडिया स्कूल: स्कूल ऑफ मैनेजमेंट स्टडीज (SOMS)

MBA विशेषज्ञताएँ उपलब्ध

MBA (बिजनेस एडमिनिस्ट्रेशन) MBA (एग्रीबिजनेस मैनेजमेंट) – MBAABM MBA (कंस्ट्रक्शन मैनेजमेंट) – MBACN MBA (फाइनेंशियल मैनेजमेंट) – MBAFM MBA (हेल्थ केयर एंड हॉस्पिटल मैनेजमेंट) – MBAHCHM MBA (ह्यूमन रिसोर्स मैनेजमेंट) – MBAHM MBA (लॉजिस्टिक्स एंड सप्लाई चेन मैनेजमेंट) – MBALS MBA (मार्केटिंग मैनेजमेंट) – MBAMM MBA (ऑपरेशंस मैनेजमेंट) – MBAOM

पात्रता उम्मीदवारों के पास कम से कम 3 साल की अवधि की बैचलर डिग्री होनी चाहिए: न्यूनतम 50% अंक (आरक्षित श्रेणियों के उम्मीदवारों के लिए 45%) अधिक जानकारी इच्छुक छात्र अधिक जानकारी यहाँ प्राप्त कर सकते हैं: https://www.ignou.ac.in/schools/programme/MBA जनवरी 2026 सत्र के लिए एडमिशन खुले हैं, और पात्र उम्मीदवारों को निर्धारित समय सीमा के भीतर आवेदन करने की सलाह दी जाती है।

और जानकारी
इच्छुक छात्र-छात्राएं यहां और जानकारी प्राप्त कर सकते हैं: https://www.ignou.ac.in/schools/programme/MBA

जनवरी 2026 सत्र के लिए एडमिशन शुरू हो गए हैं, और योग्य उम्मीदवारों को तय समय सीमा के अंदर अप्लाई करने की सलाह दी जाती है।

Rajesh Sharma (President of India Awardee for the Best Bharat Scouts and Guides Rover)
Public Relations Officer / Social Media Champion
Block-11 Room No. 13 B
Maidan Garhi, IGNOU Campus
New Delhi-110068

Media Release 26th Jan 2026
IGNOU Celebrates Republic Day with Renewed Commitment to Skill Development, Inclusivity and Nation Building New Delhi:

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) celebrated the 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm at its MaidanGarhi campus, New Delhi. The celebrations began with the unfurling of the National Flag by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, followed by her address to students, faculty, staff, and representatives from Regional Centres across the country.

On the occasion, Prof. Kanjilal reflected on the enduring significance of Republic Day, which marks the adoption of the Constitution of India and celebrates the nation’s democratic ideals, unity, and spirit of self-governance. She emphasized that education remains the cornerstone of India’s socio-economic progress and a key driver in achieving the national vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Prof. Kanjilal in her address on the occasion said, "At IGNOU, our work is guided by the principles of our Constitution - justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Established to democratize education, IGNOU has consistently worked towards making quality education accessible to all, regardless of geography or circumstance.

As India stands at a historic crossroads, IGNOU is aligning itself with national priorities like the National Education Policy 2020, Skill India Mission, Digital India, and Viksit Bharat @2047. Our recent achievements reflect this commitment - securing the No. 1 position among Open Universities in India for the second consecutive year in NIRF Rankings 2025.

With over 9.29 lakh learners, including 58% from rural areas and 52% women, IGNOU is fulfilling its role as a constitutional instrument of social justice. We're expanding access through strategic partnerships, AI-enabled translation, and digital delivery, ensuring no learner is excluded due to language.

IGNOU is integrating skills with higher education through NSQF-aligned programs, micro-credentials, and industry collaborations. We've launched initiatives like the IGNOU-CII Career Edge Academy and partnered with Cisco to establish a Networking Academy Centre of Excellence.

As we look ahead, IGNOU aims to become a Digital, AI-Enabled, and Agentic University, leveraging technology to support learners, faculty, and administration while preserving human judgment and academic values.
On this Republic Day, let's recommit ourselves to the ideals of our Constitution and nation-first education."

The Republic Day celebrations were marked by vibrant cultural performances showcasing the diversity and talent of the IGNOU community. Patriotic songs, folk music, and performances by the security staff added colour and warmth to the occasion.
The event not only commemorated the spirit of Republic Day but also reaffirmed IGNOU’s role as a national institution committed to excellence, inclusivity, innovation, and nation-building through education and skills development.

इग्नू ने कौशल विकास, समावेशिता और राष्ट्र निर्माण के प्रति नई प्रतिबद्धता के साथ गणतंत्र दिवस मनाया नई दिल्ली:

इंदिरा गांधी राष्ट्रीय मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय (इग्नू) ने नई दिल्ली के मैदान गढ़ी परिसर में बड़े उत्साह के साथ 77वां गणतंत्र दिवस मनाया। समारोह की शुरुआत कुलपति, प्रो. उमा कांजीलाल द्वारा राष्ट्रीय ध्वज फहराने के साथ हुई, जिसके बाद उन्होंने छात्रों, शिक्षकों, कर्मचारियों और देश भर के क्षेत्रीय केंद्रों के प्रतिनिधियों को संबोधित किया।

इस अवसर पर, प्रो. कांजीलाल ने गणतंत्र दिवस के स्थायी महत्व पर प्रकाश डाला, जो भारत के संविधान को अपनाने का प्रतीक है और राष्ट्र के लोकतांत्रिक आदर्शों, एकता और स्वशासन की भावना का उत्सव मनाता है। उन्होंने इस बात पर ज़ोर दिया कि शिक्षा भारत की सामाजिक-आर्थिक प्रगति की नींव है और 2047 तक विकसित भारत के राष्ट्रीय विज़न को हासिल करने में एक मुख्य भूमिका निभाती है। प्रो. कांजीलाल ने इस मौके पर अपने संबोधन में कहा, "इग्नू में, हमारा काम हमारे संविधान के सिद्धांतों - न्याय, स्वतंत्रता, समानता और भाईचारे से निर्देशित होता है। शिक्षा को लोकतांत्रिक बनाने के लिए स्थापित, इग्नू ने लगातार भौगोलिक स्थिति या परिस्थितियों की परवाह किए बिना, सभी के लिए गुणवत्तापूर्ण शिक्षा को सुलभ बनाने की दिशा में काम किया है।

जैसे-जैसे भारत एक ऐतिहासिक मोड़ पर खड़ा है, इग्नू खुद को राष्ट्रीय प्राथमिकताओं जैसे राष्ट्रीय शिक्षा नीति 2020, स्किल इंडिया मिशन, डिजिटल इंडिया और विकसित भारत @2047 के साथ जोड़ रहा है। हमारी हाल की उपलब्धियां इस प्रतिबद्धता को दर्शाती हैं - NIRF रैंकिंग 2025 में लगातार दूसरे साल भारत में ओपन यूनिवर्सिटीज़ में नंबर 1 स्थान हासिल करना।

9.29 लाख से ज़्यादा स्टूडेंट्स के साथ, जिनमें 58% ग्रामीण क्षेत्रों से और 52% महिलाएं हैं, इग्नू सामाजिक न्याय के संवैधानिक साधन के रूप में अपनी भूमिका निभा रहा है। हम रणनीतिक साझेदारियों, AI-सक्षम अनुवाद और डिजिटल डिलीवरी के माध्यम से पहुंच का विस्तार कर रहे हैं, यह सुनिश्चित करते हुए कि भाषा के कारण कोई भी स्टूडेंट पीछे न छूटे।

इग्नू NSQF-संरेखित कार्यक्रमों, माइक्रो-क्रेडेंशियल्स और उद्योग सहयोग के माध्यम से उच्च शिक्षा के साथ कौशल को एकीकृत कर रहा है। हमने IGNOU-CII करियर एज अकादमी जैसी पहल शुरू की है और सिस्को के साथ साझेदारी करके एक नेटवर्किंग अकादमी सेंटर ऑफ एक्सीलेंस स्थापित किया है।

जैसे-जैसे हम आगे देख रहे हैं, इग्नू एक डिजिटल, AI-सक्षम और एजेंटिक विश्वविद्यालय बनने का लक्ष्य रखता है, जो स्टूडेंट्स, फैकल्टी और प्रशासन का समर्थन करने के लिए प्रौद्योगिकी का लाभ उठाएगा, साथ ही मानवीय निर्णय और शैक्षणिक मूल्यों को भी बनाए रखेगा। इस गणतंत्र दिवस पर, आइए हम खुद को अपने संविधान के आदर्शों और राष्ट्र-प्रथम शिक्षा के प्रति फिर से समर्पित करें।"

गणतंत्र दिवस समारोह में IGNOU समुदाय की विविधता और प्रतिभा को प्रदर्शित करने वाले जीवंत सांस्कृतिक प्रदर्शन हुए। देशभक्ति गीत, लोक संगीत और सुरक्षा कर्मचारियों के प्रदर्शन ने इस अवसर में रंग और गर्मजोशी भर दी।

इस कार्यक्रम ने न केवल गणतंत्र दिवस की भावना का जश्न मनाया, बल्कि शिक्षा और कौशल विकास के माध्यम से उत्कृष्टता, समावेशिता, नवाचार और राष्ट्र निर्माण के लिए प्रतिबद्ध एक राष्ट्रीय संस्थान के रूप में IGNOU की भूमिका की भी पुष्टि की।

Photos of 26th Jan 2026

Media Release

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Announces Admissions for Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Programme — January 2026 Session

>Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is pleased to announce the commencement of the admissions process for the Post Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc. Nursing) programme for the January 2026 session via its official online portal. Prospective applicants can now register and apply through the dedicated admissions platform at https://ignounursing.samarth.edu.in/
The Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing programme is designed for in-service nurses seeking to advance their professional qualifications and deepen their clinical expertise. The course structure and eligibility details aim to support career progression in nursing education, administration, and advanced practice roles.

Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be registered Nurses and Registered Midwives (RNRM) with either:

• 10+2 with a three-year Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) plus a minimum of two years of work experience after registration; OR
• Matriculation (10th class) with a three-year GNM diploma plus at least five years of professional experience after RNRM registration.

(For male nurses without midwifery training in the GNM programme, eligibility can be met with an approved nursing course certificate of 6–9 months duration as prescribed by the Indian Nursing Council.)

Admission Process:

1. Visit the official portal at https://ignounursing.samarth.edu.in/
2. Click “New Registration” and complete the required registration fields with valid contact and academic details.
3. Upon registration, candidates will receive their username and password via email and SMS to access the application form.
4. Log in with the credentials to complete the online application, upload relevant documents (passport-size photo, signature, certificates), and pay the application fee through secure payment options.
5. After submission, candidates should download and print the completed application form and retain it for counselling and final admission formalities.

Programme Highlights:

• Highly flexible distance education model with practical learning components.
• Curriculum tailored to meet the evolving needs of healthcare and nursing practice.
• Eligibility to pursue diverse career paths including clinical supervision, nursing education, and health services management.

Last date of online registration 05th March, 2026

MEDIA RELEASE

IGNOU invites applications for Bachelor of Arts (Journalism and Digital Media) Programme

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is offering a new undergraduate programme—Bachelor of Arts (Journalism and Digital Media) (BAFJDM)—under the School of Journalism and New Media Studies (SOJNMS). The programme is being offered through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode, with a focus on integrating journalism education with emerging digital media technologies.

Programme Details:

• Minimum Duration: 3 Years
• Maximum Duration: 6 Years
• Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent
• Medium of Instruction: English
• Age: No age bar
• Mode: Open and Distance Learning (ODL)

The BAFJDM is a Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) designed to equip learners with a robust understanding of journalism alongside practical and theoretical knowledge of digital media. The programme offers an interdisciplinary curriculum focusing on:

• Core principles and practices of journalism
• Evolving dimensions of digital media
• Application of digital tools in media production and dissemination
• Digital and online research methodologies with a focus on big data analytics

Career Opportunities:

The explosive growth of the IT and communication sectors over the past two decades has transformed the landscape of journalism and media. With increasing public demand for real-time and multi-platform information access, journalism has become a dynamic and technology-driven field. The BAFJDM programme aims to address this transformation by preparing learners for careers in digital journalism, content creation, social media strategy, data journalism, multimedia storytelling, and more.

By bridging journalistic integrity with digital proficiency, the programme opens diverse career paths in the media industry, public communication, corporate communication, NGOs, and government sectors.

Prospective students can apply through the IGNOU admission portal:
https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in

For further information, visit:
www.ignou.ac.in

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

IGNOU Offers MA in Journalism & Mass Communication (MAJMC) through ODL and Online Modes

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) invites applications for admission to its Master of Arts in Journalism & Mass Communication (MAJMC) programme for the upcoming academic session. Offered in both Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online modes, this two-year postgraduate degree aims to prepare learners for a wide range of professional opportunities in the field of media and communication.

Programme Duration:

• Minimum: 2 Years
• Maximum: 4 Years

Eligibility:
A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.

Medium of Instruction:
English, Hindi, and Tamil

Age Limit:
No bar

The MAJMC programme is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the dynamic media sector. The curriculum provides a balanced combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills across key areas such as print, radio, television and digital journalism, photography, advertising, public relations, audio-visual production, media research, and communication academics.

Career Prospects:
Graduates of this programme can pursue careers in:

• Print, electronic, and digital journalism
• Content creation and editing
• Audio-visual media production
• Advertising and public relations
• Media analysis and research
• Teaching and academic research in media studies

The programme offers flexibility, accessibility, and affordability for both fresh graduates and working professionals looking to upskill or shift to media-related careers.

For more details and to apply, please visit:
https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU Offers Post Graduate Diploma in Development Communication and MA in Development Journalism to Empower Future Communicators for Sustainable Development

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IGNOU offers two innovative academic programmes: Post Graduate Diploma in Development Communication (PGDDC) and Master of Arts in Development Journalism (MADJ). These programmes are designed to prepare learners to respond effectively to contemporary developmental challenges through informed media engagement and strategic communication.

Why Development Communication and Journalism Matter

As India navigates the complexities of inclusive growth, sustainable development, and community empowerment, there is a growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between policymakers and the public. Development communication and journalism serve as vital tools to raise awareness, encourage participation, and foster transparency in the planning and implementation of social development initiatives.

About the Programmes

? Post Graduate Diploma in Development Communication (PGDDC)

• Programme Code: PGDDC
• Eligibility: Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline
• Medium: English
• Duration: 1 year (min) – 3 years (max)
• Fee: ₹10,000
• Credits: 40
• Study Material: Digital and Print (ODL) | Digital (Online)

? MA in Development Journalism (MADJ)

• Programme Code: MADJ
• Eligibility: Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline
• Medium: English
• Duration: 2 years (min) – 4 years (max)
• Fee: ₹10,000 per year
• Credits: 80
• Study Material: Digital and Print

Programme Objectives:

The PGDDC and MADJ programmes aim to:

• Promote inclusive dialogue between planning bodies and communities.
• Enhance understanding of communication’s role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Build strong writing, journalism, research, planning, and policy evaluation skills.
• Open pathways to careers in media, NGOs, international organizations, and development sectors.

Who Should Enroll?

These programmes are ideal for:

• Graduates aspiring for careers in development and communication
• NGO professionals
• Media and communication educators
• Government and public sector personnel
• Development practitioners in national and international agencies

Career Prospects

Graduates can look forward to rewarding roles in:

• International bodies like the UN, WHO, UNICEF, and UNESCO
• Government departments and public policy think tanks
• News media and community media platforms
• NGOs, CSR teams, and donor-funded projects
• Research and educational institutions

With their flexible format and affordable fee structure, these programmes provide easy access to high-quality education and professional development.

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Admissions Open Now

For details and online application, visit:
https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

IGNOU – CII MEGA JOB DRIVE 2.0 IN DELHI ON 12 JANUARY

Massive Job Opportunities for IGNOU Learners

Issued on: January 8, 2026 by IGNOU Delhi

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Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), is looking forward to organising a mega job drive in Delhi on January 12, 2026 (10:30 AM onwards), aiming to offer employment opportunities to its students and alumni at NBCC EDC, Ghitorni. IGNOU’s campus placement cell is expecting a massive turnout after the success of its previous job drive last December. Leading companies from IT, Banking, Automobile, Electronics, E-Commerce, Hospitality, Telecommunication and Insurance sectors are participating at the job fair. Recruiters offering competitive salary packages have listed positions for Customer Care Executives (CCE) in backend operations and Team Members/Crew Members in Quick Service Restaurants. The organisers of IGNOU-CII job drive invites applications from eligible IGNOU candidates with either a graduation degree or pursuing undergraduate courses or having passed their higher secondary examination from a recognised institution. The prospective candidates should carry their updated resume, educational certificates, Aadhaar Card, PAN Card and a photograph to appear for the placement drive.

IGNOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal extends her best wishes to the appearing candidates and participating companies for the second edition of IGNOU-CII Mega Job Fair. She said such initiatives reflect IGNOU’s dedication to the government’s initiative of Skill India Mission and its commitment towards preparing a skilled industry-ready workforce. Contributing to the agenda of national education, skilling and employment generation at a massive scale, this mega job drive on January 12, 2026 is expected to facilitate a successful engagement for recruiters and learners alike.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Officer
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068

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Event Photographs

Media Release
A RESOUNDING SUCCESS:IGNOU MEGA JOB DRIVE 2.0 IN DELHI
Dream Jobs secured by IGNOU Learners

Issued on: January 12, 2026 by IGNOU Delhi

>Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) recently concluded its second edition of the Mega Job Fair in Delhi on January 12, 2026. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from learners, alumni and recruiters alike. The IGNOU – CII job drive aimed at bridging the gap between academia and industry, offered a platform for talent acquisition and career opportunities.

The job drive witnessed participation from leading organisationsin the aviation, hospitality, customer support, IT,and e-commerce sectors offering a range of job profiles and career prospects to IGNOU learners and alumni. During the recruitment interviews, Ms Preeti Duggal, Director YS Hospitality, shared that she is looking for “candidates who are hard-working and eager to learnto servethe hospitality industry”.Ms Sneha Tiwari from Birds Flight Services felt that IGNOU has been the recruiters’ first choice as “the learners hired can pursue their degree alongside their career”.

The event was a resounding success, with multiple job offers and traineeships extended to deserving candidates. Amongst the selected IGNOU learners, Shivani Gupta said that “it was like a dream come true”. She adds that, as an M.Com. Final year student, her lessons on sales and purchase in accountancy helped her crack the job interview. She thanked IGNOU for giving her the academic opportunity that transcended into an employment offer. One of the parents, Mr. S.K. Gupta, expressed his deep gratitude towards IGNOUfor a well-planned arrangement making it convenient for learners to appear for the desired job.

IGNOU Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal expressed satisfaction with the event’s outcome, stating that the “IGNOU’s Mega Job Drive has reinforced our commitment to empowering students with employability skills and connecting them with industry leaders.It gives immense pleasure to us to see our learners, alumni, parents and recruiters satisfied with the effort of our placement team.” The success of the Job Driveunderscores IGNOU’s tireless efforts to foster industry – academia partnerships and promote career development for its learners.

इंदिरा गांधी राष्ट्रीय मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय (इग्नू) ने हाल ही में 12 जनवरी, 2026 को दिल्ली में मेगा जॉब फेयर के अपने दूसरे संस्करण का समापन किया। इस कार्यक्रम में शिक्षार्थियों, पूर्व छात्रों और भर्तीकर्ताओं की समान रूप से उत्साही भागीदारी देखी गई। इग्नू - सी आई आई जॉब ड्राइव का उद्देश्य शिक्षा और उद्योग के बीच की खाई को पाटना है, जो प्रतिभा अधिग्रहण और कैरियर के अवसरो के लिए एक मंच प्रदान करता है।
जॉब ड्राइव में विमानन, आतिथ्य, ग्राहक सहायता, आई टी और ई-कॉमर्स क्षेत्रो के अग्रणी संगठनों की भागीदारी देखी गई, जो इग्नू शिक्षार्थियों और पूर्व छात्रों को नौकरी प्रोफाइल और कैरियर की संभावनाओं की एक शृंखला प्रदान करते हैं। भर्ती साक्षात्कार के दौरान, वाई एस हॉस्पिटैलिटी की निदेशक सुश्री प्रीतिदुग्गल ने साझा किया कि वह"ऐसे उम्मीदवारों की तलाश कर रही हैं जो कड़ी मेहनत कर रहे हों और आतिथ्य उद्योग की सेवा कर ना सीखने के लिए उत्सुक हों"।बर्ड्सफ़्लाइट सर्विसेज़ की सुश्री स्नेहा तिवारी ने महसूस किया कि इग्नू भर्ती कर्ताओं की पहली पसंद रही है क्योंकि "नियुक्त किए गए शिक्षार्थी अपने करियर के साथ-साथअपनी डिग्री भी हासिल कर सकते हैं"।
यह आयोजन एक ज़बरदस्त सफलता थी, जिसमें योग्य उम्मीदवारों को कई नौकरी की पेशकश और प्रशिक्षुता प्रदान की गई। चयनित इग्नू शिक्षार्थियों में से शिवानी गुप्ता ने कहा कि "यह एक सपने के सच होने जैसा था"।वह कहती हैं कि, एम.कॉम.अंतिम वर्ष की छात्रा, अकाउंटेंसी में बिक्री और खरीद पर उसके पाठ ने उसे नौकरी के लिए साक्षात्कार में सफल होने में मदद की।उन्होंने इग्नू को शैक्षणिक अवसर देने के लिए धन्यवाद दिया जो रोजगार की पेशकश में बदल गया। माता-पिता में से एक, श्री एस.के. गुप्ता ने एक सुनियोजित व्यवस्था के लिए इग्नू के प्रति गहरी कृतज्ञता व्यक्त की, जिस से शिक्षार्थियों के लिए वांछित नौकरी के लिए उपस्थित होना सुविधाजन कहो गया।
इग्नू की कुलपति प्रोफेसर उमा कांजीलाल ने कार्यक्रम के परिणाम पर संतुष्टि व्यक्त करते हुए कहा कि "इग्नू के मेगा जॉब ड्राइव ने छात्रों को रोजगार कौशल के साथ सशक्त बनाने और उन्हें उद्योग के नेताओं के साथ जोड़ने की हमारी प्रतिबद्धता को मजबूत किया है।यह देखकर हमें बेहद खुशी होती है कि हमारे शिक्षार्थी,पूर्वछात्र, माता-पिता और भर्तीकर्ता हमारी प्लेसमेंट टीम के प्रयास से संतुष्ट हैं।" जॉब ड्राइव की सफलता उद्योग-अकादमिक साझेदारी को बढ़ावा देने और अपने शिक्षार्थियों के लिए कैरियर विकास को बढ़ावा देने के लिए इग्नू के अथक प्रयासों को रेखांकित करती है।

PRESS RELEASE

President of India inaugurates IGNOU Regional Centre & Skill Centre at Rairangpur, Odisha

IGNOU adds another feather to its cap with Regional Centre Rairangpur

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IGNOU marked a significant milestone on the New Year with the successful inauguration of its Regional Centre and Skill Centre at Rairangpur, Mayurbhanj, Odisha. The Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, virtually inaugurated IGNOU’s Rairangpur Regional Centre and Skill Centre on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, New Delhi.

The inauguration was held in the benign presence of Sh. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Education; Sh. Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge); Sh. Vineet Joshi, Secretary, Department of Higher Education; Sh. Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of School Education and Literacy; Ms. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship; Prof. Uma Kanjilal, IGNOU’s Vice Chancellor and other esteemed dignitaries. The event was also attended virtually by participants from IGNOU Regional Centre and Skill Centre at Rairangpur, Odisha and other regional centres across India.

Addressing the august gathering, Hon’ble President expressed her pleasure inaugurating IGNOU’s Regional Centre and Skill Centre at Rairangpur. She said that making “higher education and learning support accessible to learners of this region is an important step”. She congratulated the central minister of education, Sh. Dharmendra Pradhan and his team for establishing the IGNOU Regional Centre at Rairangpur. She further added that “the establishment of IGNOU Skill Centre at Rairangpur in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) is a commendable step and it will prove to be an asset, especially for women, rural and tribal populace in the region”.

Sh. Dharmendra Pradhan congratulated the prospective learners of Rairangpur on the establishment of IGNOU Regional Centre. He emphasised how Rairangpur Regional Centre and Skill Centre would benefit the farmers, tribal community and marginalised groups in the region which supports the vision of Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Sh. Jayant Chaudhary in his opening remarks supported the AI readiness courses as part of ‘Skill the Nation Challenge’ campaign. IGNOU has been successfully contributing to the national effort of implementing the life-long learning model under the National Education Policy.

The event concluded with a vision to empower India’s future-ready workforce through AI-driven technology. MSDE’s initiative SOAR is a step closer to AI readiness in India. IGNOU’s Rairangpur Regional Centre and Skill Centre’s effort is envisioned to contribute towards nation-building in a similar direction.

भारत की राष्ट्रपति ने ओडिशा के राय रंगपुर में IGNOU रीजनल सेंटर और स्किल सेंटर का उद्घाटन किया

IGNOU ने राय रंगपुर में रीजनल सेंटर के साथ अपनी उपलब्धियों में एक और उपलब्धि जोड़ी

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IGNOU ने नए साल पर ओडिशा के मयूरभंज, राय रंगपुर में अपने रीजनल सेंटर और स्किल सेंटर के सफल उद्घाटन के साथ एक महत्वपूर्ण मील का पत्थर हासिल किया। भारत की माननीय राष्ट्रपति, श्रीमती द्रौपदी मुर्मू ने गुरुवार, 1 जनवरी, 2026 को नई दिल्ली के राष्ट्रपति भवन कल्चरल सेंटर में IGNOU के राय रंगपुर रीजनल सेंटर और स्किल सेंटर का वर्चुअली उद्घाटन किया।

यह उद्घाटन शिक्षा मंत्री श्री धर्मेंद्र प्रधान; राज्य मंत्री (स्वतंत्र प्रभार) श्री जयंत चौधरी; उच्च शिक्षा विभाग के सचिव श्री विनीत जोशी; स्कूली शिक्षा और साक्षरता सचिव श्री संजय कुमार; कौशल विकास और उद्यमिता मंत्रालय की सचिव सुश्री देबाश्री मुखर्जी; IGNOU की कुलपति प्रो. उमा कांजीलाल और अन्य सम्मानित गणमान्य व्यक्तियों की गरिमामयी उपस्थिति में हुआ।

माननीय राष्ट्रपति ने कहा कि "इस क्षेत्र के शिक्षार्थियों के लिए उच्च शिक्षा और सीखने के समर्थन को सुलभ बनाना एक महत्वपूर्ण कदम है"। उन्होंने इसे विशेष रूप से महिलाओं, ग्रामीण और आदिवासी आबादी के लिए एक महत्वपूर्ण पहल बताया।

यह कार्यक्रम AI-संचालित तकनीक के माध्यम से भारत के भविष्य के लिए तैयार कार्यबल को सशक्त बनाने के विज़न के साथ समाप्त हुआ।

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Officer
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068

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Event Photographs

MEDIA RELEASE

IGNOU–CII Career Edge Academy Organized Mega Job Drive in New Delhi

Empowering IGNOU Learners Towards Employability

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Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) successfully organized a Mega Job Drive under the IGNOU–CII Career Edge Academy to provide employment opportunities for IGNOU students and alumni across multiple sectors on 23 December 2025 at NBCC EDC, Ghitorni, New Delhi.

Leading companies including Tata Motors, Apollo Munich Health Insurance, Axis Bank, Razorpay, Tata Play Fiber, Ather and others participated in the mega job drive to hire candidates. The event witnessed a huge turnout of IGNOU students and alumni, graduates and diploma holders alike for openings in customer service, sales, technical support, international voice roles, banking and insurance support, as well as software and technical process roles.

Event Highlights:

• Participation from leading corporate recruiters
• Opportunities across IT, Banking, Insurance, Sales & Technical roles
• Openings for Freshers & Experienced Candidates
• Attractive salary packages with incentives
• Flexible work shifts & additional benefits

Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, extended her best wishes to the candidates and hiring companies. She stated that such engagements motivate learners and encourage other leading companies to participate in future job fairs initiated by IGNOU.

A key highlight of the event for job seekers was the availability of favourable opportunities for both freshers and experienced candidates, offering attractive salary packages and flexible work shifts. Certain roles also provided incentives, cab facilities, insurance benefits, and outstation support.

The IGNOU-CII initiative offered a unique opportunity for candidates to interact with multiple recruiters on a single platform and explore diverse career opportunities.

IGNOU–CII करियर एज एकेडमी ने नई दिल्ली में मेगा जॉब ड्राइव का आयोजन किया

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इंदिरा गांधी नेशनल ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी (IGNOU) ने कॉन्फेडरेशन ऑफ इंडियन इंडस्ट्री (CII) के सहयोग से IGNOU–CII करियर एज एकेडमी के तहत IGNOU के छात्रों और पूर्व छात्रों को कई सेक्टर में रोज़गार के अवसर देने के लिए 23 दिसंबर 2025 को NBCC EDC, घिटोरनी, नई दिल्ली में एक मेगा जॉब ड्राइव का सफलतापूर्वक आयोजन किया।

टाटा मोटर्स, अपोलो म्यूनिख हेल्थ इंश्योरेंस, एक्सिस बैंक, रेज़रपे, टाटा प्ले फाइबर, एथर और अन्य सहित कई प्रमुख कंपनियों ने उम्मीदवारों को हायर करने के लिए इस मेगा जॉब ड्राइव में हिस्सा लिया।

इस इवेंट में IGNOU के छात्रों और पूर्व छात्रों, ग्रेजुएट और डिप्लोमा धारकों ने कस्टमर सर्विस, सेल्स, टेक्निकल सपोर्ट, इंटरनेशनल वॉइस रोल्स, बैंकिंग और इंश्योरेंस सपोर्ट, साथ ही सॉफ्टवेयर और टेक्निकल प्रोसेस रोल्स में नौकरियों के लिए बड़ी संख्या में हिस्सा लिया।

IGNOU की माननीय वाइस चांसलर प्रो. उमा कांजीलाल ने उम्मीदवारों और हायरिंग कंपनियों को शुभकामनाएं दीं। उन्होंने कहा कि ऐसे आयोजन सीखने वालों को प्रेरित करते हैं और अन्य प्रमुख कंपनियों को IGNOU द्वारा शुरू किए गए भविष्य के जॉब फेयर में भाग लेने के लिए प्रोत्साहित करते हैं।

नौकरी ढूंढने वालों के लिए इस इवेंट की एक मुख्य बात यह थी कि फ्रेशर्स और अनुभवी दोनों तरह के उम्मीदवारों के लिए अच्छे अवसर उपलब्ध थे, जिनमें आकर्षक सैलरी पैकेज और फ्लेक्सिबल वर्क शिफ्ट की पेशकश की गई थी। कुछ रोल्स में इंसेंटिव, कैब सुविधा, बीमा लाभ और आउटस्टेशन सपोर्ट भी दिया गया।

IGNOU-CII की इस पहल ने उम्मीदवारों को एक ही प्लेटफॉर्म पर कई रिक्रूटर के साथ बातचीत करने और करियर के अलग-अलग अवसरों को खोजने का एक अनोखा मौका दिया।

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Officer
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068

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Placement Drive Highlights

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU and UPRTOU Sign Memorandum of Collaboration to Strengthen Open and Distance Learning

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Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon Open University (UPRTOU), have signed a Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) to promote institutional cooperation and strengthen academic and operational capacities in the field of Open and Distance Learning (ODL).

The MoC aims to foster collaborative activities between the two universities. The key areas of cooperation include research and development in academic and ODL domains; joint organization and participation in national and international conferences, symposia and exhibitions; promotion of Open Educational Resources (OER) and MOOCs; and guidance on effective e-learning, m-learning and online student support services, including assessment and evaluation.

The collaboration also envisages sharing of best practices in programme design, development and delivery; promotion of skill development programmes to enhance employability, particularly for under-privileged groups; and joint Faculty Development Programmes involving seminars, site visits to Learner Support Centres, Regional Centres and other institutions of educational and social relevance. Other activities of mutual academic interest may also be undertaken.

The MoC provides a broad framework for cooperation. For each specific project or activity, the two institutions will enter into separate project-specific Memoranda of Collaboration detailing scope of work, roles and responsibilities, deliverables, financial arrangements and timelines.

Under the collaboration, IGNOU will also train faculty members of UPRTOU in various academic affairs and extend support for the development of MOOCs and courses on SWAYAM and SWAYAM PRABHA platforms.

The MoC was signed by Shri Jitendra Srivastava, Registrar, IGNOU and Col. Vijay Kumar, Registrar, UPRTOU, in the presence of Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor, IGNOU and Prof. Satyakam, Vice-Chancellor, UPRTOU. The leadership of both institutions expressed confidence that the collaboration would contribute significantly to enhancing the quality, reach and impact of open and distance education in the country.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Officer
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068

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Event Photographs

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU Launches Online Master’s Programme in Social Work (MSWOL)

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The School of Social Work, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched the Master of Social Work (Online) [MSWOL] programme from July Session 2025. Designed to cater to the rising demand for professionally trained social workers across India and internationally, this programme provides an inclusive, accessible, and flexible platform for postgraduate education in social work.

The MSWOL programme offers learners the opportunity to deepen their theoretical and practical understanding of social work and enhance their ability to engage effectively with individuals, families, and communities. Delivered entirely in digital mode, the programme aligns with IGNOU’s commitment to democratizing education through technology.

Key Highlights of the Programme:

• Programme Code: MSWOL
• Eligibility: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university
• Medium of Instruction: English
• Duration: 2 Years (Minimum) | 4 Years (Maximum)
• Credits: 72
• Examination Mode: Annual
• Study Materials: Digital

Fee Structure:

• Indian Students: ₹18,500/- per year
• SAARC Students: ₹29,600/- per year
• Non-SAARC International Students: $1300/- per year

Graduates of the MSWOL programme can look forward to impactful careers in child welfare, healthcare, education, mental health, community development, policy advocacy, and corporate social responsibility, across governmental, corporate, and non-profit sectors.

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Admissions Now Open:

Interested candidates can apply through the portal:
https://ignouiop.samarth.edu.in/index.php/site/index

For more details, Contact Programme Coordinators: Dr. Saumya & Dr. Binod Kumar at MSWOLINFO@IGNOU.AC.IN

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU launches CTPM (Certificate Programme in Teaching of Primary School Mathematics)

IGNOU has launched a Certificate Programme on Teaching of Primary School Mathematics since January, 2002. This programme has helped to develop a deep understanding of primary school mathematics curriculum for a wide range of teachers and for those who aspire to become a teacher. The programme has greatly helped many teachers to enhance teaching skills and methodologies for effective mathematics instruction and foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.

The duration of the programme is 6 months and expandable upto 2 years. Any primary school teacher, mathematics educator, and anyone interested in teaching mathematics can join this programme and get the benefit of it. Interested candidates can apply online through the IGNOU website. For information please visit https://www.ignou.ac.in/schools/programme/CTPM .

For more information please contact, Programme Coordinator:

Dr. Pawan Kumar
Assistant Professor in Mathematics,
School of Sciences,
Indira Gandhi National Open University
Email: pawankumar@ignou.ac.in

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

CTPM-Programme.pdf

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU Launches B.Sc. in Fabric and Apparel Design under Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP)

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), through its School of Continuing Education (SOCE), announces the launch of the B.Sc. in Fabric and Apparel Design under the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) for the January 2026 admission cycle. Offered in the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode, this creative programme is designed in accordance with the UGC’s Curriculum and Credit Framework and aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The B.Sc. in Fabric and Apparel Design programme aims to equip learners with a strong foundation and practical skills in textile science, fashion design, and garment construction. It integrates scientific understanding of textiles with creative design and technical training, preparing students for industry-oriented roles. The programme emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and professional competence, enabling graduates to pursue careers in the textile and apparel industry, entrepreneurship, or higher studies.

Programme Objectives

• To provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of the fabric and apparel manufacturing industry.
• To equip students with the technical knowledge and practical skills required for fabric and apparel production.
• To develop expertise in manufacturing processes specific to the fabric and apparel sector.

Key Highlights

• Eligibility: 10+2 (with Science)
• Medium of Instruction: English
• Duration: Minimum 3 years; Maximum 6 years
• Fee Structure: ₹11,000 per year (plus applicable registration and development fees)
• Programme Credits: 120 credits for 3 years
• Examination Mode: Annual

Multiple Exit Options

• After 1st Year: UG Certificate in Fabric and Apparel Design
• After 2nd Year: UG Diploma in Fabric and Apparel Design
• After 3rd Year: B.Sc. in Fabric and Apparel Design
• After 4th Year: B.Sc. (Hons.) in Fabric and Apparel Design

Study materials will be provided in both print and digital formats, ensuring accessibility for learners across the country.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the programme will be well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths such as Textile/Fabric Designers, Fashion Designers, Apparel Pattern Makers or Technical Designers, Fashion Illustrators, Fashion Merchandisers or Buyers, Visual Merchandisers, and Fashion Educators or Trainers. Opportunities exist in both the private and government sectors, including government skill centres, fashion colleges, and training institutions. Graduates may also choose to become entrepreneurs by launching their own start-ups using the skills acquired through the programme.

Apply Now

For detailed programme information and to apply online, visit:
Programme Details:
https://www.ignou.ac.in/schools/programme/BSCFFAD

https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/

For Further Information, Contact:

Dr. Richa Prakash
Email: richaprakash@ignou.ac.in
Mobile: 8076123439

Dr. Anuradha Arya
Email: anuradhaarya@ignou.ac.in
Mobile: 8979036749

Rajesh Sharma
(President of India Awardee for the Best Bharat Scouts and Guides Rover)
Public Relations Officer / Social Media Champion
Block-11 Room No. 13 B
Maidan Garhi, IGNOU Campus
New Delhi-110068

Indira Gandhi National Open University Launches Post Graduate Diploma in Tribal Studies (PGDTRBS)

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The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched an innovative academic programme, the Post Graduate Diploma in Tribal Studies (PGDTRBS), aimed at fostering a comprehensive understanding of tribal communities, their cultures, and their role in India’s socio-economic fabric. The programme is being offered through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for a diverse group of learners across the country.

Developed in collaboration with tribal experts from reputed national research institutes and universities, PGDTRBS explores the holistic ecosystem in which tribal communities thrive. The curriculum is deeply rooted in a multidisciplinary framework, drawing insights from anthropology, ecology, traditional knowledge systems, tribal medicine, handicrafts, folklore, and more. Special emphasis has also been placed on tribal contributions to India’s freedom movement and evolving socio-political landscape.

The programme utilizes a blend of self-instructional printed material, information and communication technologies (ICT), and personal contact sessions. It is designed to benefit a wide range of stakeholders—grassroots-level social workers, policy planners, researchers, community health professionals, and development practitioners—along with graduates aspiring to build careers in tribal development, tribal health, education, and allied sectors.

Highlighting the relevance of the programme, Prof. Nehal A. Farooquee, Director, School of Extension & Development Studies (SOEDS), IGNOU said, “PGDTRBS not only equips learners with theoretical knowledge but also empowers them to actively participate in the design and implementation of tribal development initiatives. It reflects IGNOU’s commitment to inclusive education and national development goals.”

Key Areas Covered:

• Tribes of India and their transformation
• Tribal movements and freedom fighters
• Tribal society, culture, demography, and adaptive strategies
• Ecology, ethnoveterinary and traditional medicine
• Tribal economy, polity, governance, and entrepreneurship
• Policy frameworks and development programmes for Tribals

Career Opportunities:

Successful completion of the PGDTRBS opens up employment avenues in government agencies, NGOs, CSR wings of corporations, international development organisations such as UNDP, WHO, UNICEF, and in various health, education, and social welfare sectors. It is equally beneficial for in-service professionals aiming for upward mobility, and for individuals seeking to establish NGOs or work in self-employment within the development domain.

The programme underscores IGNOU’s ongoing mission to democratize education and strengthen skill-based learning for nation-building.

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For admission details, visit:
https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

MEDIA RELEASE

- MoU exchanged on IGNOU’s 40th Foundation Day

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The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and CISCO entered into a partnership today with the signing and exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the IGNOU Headquarters, New Delhi, marking an important step toward expanding digital skills and employability for learners across the country.

The MoU was exchanged during the University’s 40th Foundation Day celebration in the presence of Prof Peter Scott, President and CEO, Commonwealth of Learning (COL), Vancouver, Canada, Prof Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU, Mr Anurag Srivastava from CISCO, along with senior officials, faculty members, and invited guests.

As part of this collaboration, IGNOU and CISCO will work together to set up a CISCO NetAcad Centre of Excellence at IGNOU, develop industry-ready training programmes, and offer learning pathways in networking, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. The initiative aims to widen access to high-quality digital learning and strengthen the skilling ecosystem across the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU said: “This partnership brings new energy to our mission of taking knowledge to every learner. By joining hands with CISCO, we are creating pathways that help our students gain the digital skills needed in today’s world. This collaboration will support our efforts to make education more inclusive, flexible, and relevant to the future of work.”

The collaboration is expected to benefit learners across IGNOU’s vast network and help build a strong talent pipeline aligned with the needs of the digital economy.

IGNOU और CISCO ने डिजिटल स्किल्स इकोसिस्टम को मज़बूत करने के लिए MoU साइन किया

- IGNOU के 40वें फ़ाउंडेशन डे पर MoU एक्सचेंज हुआ

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इंदिरा गांधी नेशनल ओपन यूनिवर्सिटी (IGNOU) और CISCO ने आज IGNOU हेडक्वार्टर, नई दिल्ली में एक मेमोरेंडम ऑफ़ अंडरस्टैंडिंग (MoU) पर साइन करके और उसे एक्सचेंज करके एक पार्टनरशिप की, जो देश भर में सीखने वालों के लिए डिजिटल स्किल्स और एम्प्लॉयबिलिटी को बढ़ाने की दिशा में एक ज़रूरी कदम है।

यूनिवर्सिटी के 40वें फ़ाउंडेशन डे सेलिब्रेशन के दौरान यह MoU एक्सचेंज किया गया, जिसमें प्रोफ़ेसर पीटर स्कॉट, प्रेसिडेंट और CEO, कॉमनवेल्थ ऑफ़ लर्निंग (COL), वैंकूवर, कनाडा, प्रोफ़ेसर उमा कांजीलाल, वाइस चांसलर, IGNOU, श्री अनुराग श्रीवास्तव, सीनियर अधिकारियों, फ़ैकल्टी मेंबर्स और इनवाइटेड गेस्ट्स मौजूद थे।

इस कोलेबोरेशन के हिस्से के तौर पर, IGNOU और CISCO मिलकर IGNOU में CISCO NetAcad सेंटर ऑफ़ एक्सीलेंस सेट अप करेंगे, इंडस्ट्री के लिए तैयार ट्रेनिंग प्रोग्राम डेवलप करेंगे, और नेटवर्किंग, साइबर सिक्योरिटी, और नई टेक्नोलॉजी में लर्निंग पाथवे ऑफ़र करेंगे। इस पहल का मकसद हाई-क्वालिटी डिजिटल लर्निंग तक पहुंच बढ़ाना और पूरे देश में स्किलिंग इकोसिस्टम को मजबूत करना है।

इस मौके पर बोलते हुए, IGNOU की वाइस चांसलर, प्रोफेसर उमा कांजीलाल ने कहा: “यह पार्टनरशिप हर सीखने वाले तक ज्ञान पहुंचाने के हमारे मिशन में नई एनर्जी लाती है। CISCO के साथ हाथ मिलाकर, हम ऐसे रास्ते बना रहे हैं जो हमारे स्टूडेंट्स को आज की दुनिया में ज़रूरी डिजिटल स्किल्स हासिल करने में मदद करें। यह कोलेबोरेशन एजुकेशन को ज़्यादा इनक्लूसिव, फ्लेक्सिबल और काम के भविष्य के लिए रेलिवेंट बनाने की हमारी कोशिशों में मदद करेगा।”

इस कोलेबोरेशन से IGNOU के बड़े नेटवर्क में सीखने वालों को फायदा होने और डिजिटल इकॉनमी की ज़रूरतों के हिसाब से एक मजबूत टैलेंट पाइपलाइन बनाने में मदद मिलने की उम्मीद है।

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Officer
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068

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‘Use AI as Your Hand, Not Your Head’

IGNOU observes National Press Day with keynote lecture on AI and press freedom

New Delhi, November 17

Indira Gandhi National Open University organized a symposium on the occasion of National Press Day on November 17, 2025, at the Vice Chancellor's Office. The symposium featured the keynote address by Mr. Rajesh Upadhyay, Editor-in-Chief of Jagran New Media. The symposium was chaired by Professor Deeksha Kapoor, Vice-Chancellor-in-Charge, IGNOU, and Professor Rai, Director, School of Journalism and New Media Studies. Professor Shikha Rai delivered the welcome address, highlighting the challenge of narrative management in the media and how it has become more complex with the advent of artificial intelligence. Professor K. S. Arul Selvan then briefly introduced the School's educational role and its contribution to media education, and Professor Ramesh Yadav highlighted the historical significance and relevance of National Press Day.

Mr. Rajesh Upadhyay delivered his address at the symposium on “The New World Order in Journalism: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and Media.” He stated that artificial intelligence is not a new discovery; its concept has existed since 1956. But with the advent of ChatGPT, the landscape has completely changed. Discussing generative AI, he explained that its impact is rapidly transforming newsroom content production processes. He elaborated on challenges such as copyright, credibility, and source verification. Discussing solutions, he suggested several measures, including transparency from Big Tech, human-based audit systems, and accountability for algorithms. Summarizing his address, he stated that AI literacy is essential for everyone and should be embraced collaboratively. Concluding his speech, he said, “Make AI your hand, not your head.”
Following Mr. Upadhyay's address, Vice-Chancellor-in-Charge Professor Deeksha Kapoor, in her presidential address, emphasized the media's responsibility, stating that building an empowered and informed society depends on the media's sensitivity and diligence. She also commended the School of Journalism for its efforts. Senior professors and researchers from various faculties also participated in the symposium. Officials and students from IGNOU's regional centers also joined the symposium online. The researchers enthusiastically expressed their queries to Mr. Upadhyay, which he duly addressed. The program concluded with the national anthem. Dr. Amit Kumar, Associate Professor at the University of Journalism, conducted the symposium and delivered the vote of thanks at the end.

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‘“विवेक से करें AI का प्रयोग”: श्री राजेश उपध्याय

इग्नू में प्रेस स्वतंत्रता एवं मीडिया पर आर्टिफीशियल इंटेलिजेंस के प्रभाव विषय पर संगोष्ठी का आयोजन

17 नवंबर 2025 इंदिरा गाँधी राष्ट्रीय मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय में ‘राष्ट्रीय प्रेस दिवस’ के अवसर पर 17 नवंबर, 2025 को कुलपति कार्यालय में संगोष्ठी का आयोजन किया गया। संगोष्ठी में जागरण न्यू मीडिया के मुख्य संपादक श्री राजेश उपाध्याय जी ने मुख्य संबोधन दिया। संगोष्ठी की अध्यक्षता इग्नू के प्रभारी कुलपति प्रोफेसर दीक्षा कपूर और पत्रकारिता एवं नवीन मीडिया अध्ययन विद्यापीठ की निदेशक प्रोफेसर शिखा राय ने की। प्रोफेसर शिखा राय ने स्वागत भाषण देते हुए मीडिया में नैरेटिव मैनेजमेंट की चुनौती और आर्टिफिशल इंटेलिजेंस के आने से उसके और अधिक जटिल होने पर प्रकाश डाला। इसके बाद प्रोफेसर के. एस. अरुल सेल्वन ने स्कूल की शैक्षिक भूमिका और मीडिया शिक्षा में उसके योगदान का संक्षिप्त परिचय दिया, और प्रोफेसर रमेश यादव ने ‘राष्ट्रीय प्रेस दिवस’ के ऐतिहासिक महत्व और उसकी प्रासंगिकता को रेखांकित किया।

श्री राजेश उपध्याय ने संगोष्ठी में "पत्रकारिता में नवीन विश्व व्यवस्था: प्रेस स्वतंत्रता एवं मीडिया पर आर्टिफीशियल इंटेलिजेंस के प्रभाव" विषय पर अपना उद्बोधन प्रस्तुत किया। उन्होंने कहा कि आर्टिफीशियल इंटेलिजेंस कोई नई खोज नहीं है, इसकी अवधारणा 1956 से मौजूद है। लेकिन चैटजीपीटी के आगमन के बाद परिदृश्य पूरी तरह बदल गया है। जनरेटिव AI की चर्चा करते हुए उन्होंने बताया कि इसका असर कंटेंट तैयार करने की न्यूज़ रूम की कार्यप्रणाली को बहुत तेज़ी से बदल रहा है। उन्होंने कॉपीराइट, विश्वसनीयता और स्रोत निर्देशन जैसी चुनौतियों पर विस्तार से बात की। समाधानों की बात करते हुए उन्होंने बिग टेक की पारदर्शिता, मानव-आधारित ऑडिट प्रणाली, एल्गोरिदम की जवाबदेही समेत कई उपाय सुझाए। अपने संबोधन का सार प्रस्तुत करते हुए उन्होंने कहा कि AI साक्षरता सभी के लिए आवश्यक है, और इसे सहयोगी भावना से अपनाना चाहिए। अपने उद्बोधन का सार देते हुए उन्होंने कहा, “AI को अपना हाथ बनाइए, विवेक नहीं।”
श्री उपाध्याय के उद्बोधन के बाद प्रभारी कुलपति प्रोफेसर दीक्षा कपूर ने अपने अध्यक्षीय उद्बोधन में मीडिया की जिम्मेदारी पर जोर देते हुए कहा कि सशक्त और सूचित समाज का निर्माण मीडिया की संवेदनशीलता और परिश्रम पर निर्भर करता है। साथ ही उन्होंने पत्रकारिता विद्यापीठ को अपने प्रयासों के लिए साधुवाद भी व्यक्त किया। संगोष्ठी में भिन्न-भिन्न संकायों के वरिष्ठ प्राध्यापकों और शोधार्थियों ने भी प्रतिभागिता की। साथ ही हाइब्रिड माध्यम से इग्नू के क्षेत्रीय केंद्रों के अधिकारी और छात्र भी संगोष्ठी से जुड़े। शोधार्थियों ने उत्साह सहित श्री उपाध्याय से अपनी जिज्ञासाएं भी व्यक्त की जिनका उचित समाधान श्री उपाध्याय ने किया। राष्ट्रीय गान के साथ कार्यक्रम का समापन हुआ। इस संगोष्ठी का संचालन एवं धन्यवाद ज्ञापन पत्रकारिता विद्यापीठ के एसोसिएट प्राध्यापक डॉ. अमित कुमार ने सहजता से किया।

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Media Release

IGNOU Launches M.Sc. (Home Science - Community Development and Extension Management) – IGNOU’s first Master’s Programme in Home Science

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IGNOU is proud to announce the launch of its first Master’s programme in Home Science - M.SC. (HOME SCIENCE - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND EXTENSION MANAGEMENT) . This Master’s programme aims to fulfill the educational aspirations of Home Science graduates and graduates from other disciplines who wish to become development practitioners and implement community development projects for livelihoods, skilling and beyond. Students will get an opportunity to learn the nuances of extension, development communication, social and behaviour change, advocacy, resource mobilisation, participatory media, gender mainstreaming, maternal and child health, researching in communities, and interdisciplinary areas of Home Science in this programme. The employability scope of this programme extends to Programme / Project officers in Government, Intergovernmental, Multilateral and International Organisations across sectors like social welfare, rural development, health services and agriculture, NGOs, CSR Foundations, Corporations and Social Enterprises; Academicians, Researchers, PGTs in schools and Officers in skill development.

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Applicants for this programme can be Graduates of Home Science / Community Sciences, Social Sciences, Behavioral Sciences, Sciences or any other discipline, who wish to pursue careers in the development sector. Those learners with a science background can also benefit from this programme as it will help them in leveraging scientific knowledge towards community development.

For more information:
https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/index.php/site/programme-detail?id=9897460de15431e64831da324e291d2ade82a2cef239b47e94e9f8bacbefc44e1845

Aspiring learners can apply for admission through the IGNOU Samarth Portal:
https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in

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Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

PRESS RELEASE

A delegation from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, comprising Ms. Preyansi Mani, Mr. Vincent, and Mr. Sunil visited the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) today, 16th July 2025.

The purpose of the visit was to conduct a technical meeting with the COE's (Centre for Online Education, IGNOU) animation and graphics teams regarding the joint development of two online courses to be offered on the SWAYAM platform. IGNOU and Banaras Hindu University (BHU) have been nominated by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, to partner with GiZ for this initiative.

During the visit, the GiZ team toured the newly inaugurated studio and editing suite at the COE and interacted with the technical staff involved in content creation. The visit concluded with a high-level meeting chaired by the Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal, at the VCO, where discussions focused on adapting GiZ programmes into SWAYAM and NCVET-compliant formats, along with exploring additional avenues for academic collaboration.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

GIZ.jpg

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU and UNESCO-ICHEI Strengthen Ties to Enhance ICT Capacity and Collaboration

An online meeting was convened at 10:00 AM today at the Vice Chancellor's Office at IGNOU, New Delhi, between the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and the International Centre for Higher Education Innovation (ICHEI), operating under the auspices of UNESCO in Shenzhen, China.

This meeting was held as a follow-up to the Cooperation Framework Agreement signed earlier between IGNOU and UNESCO-ICHEI. The primary focus of the discussions was to explore strategies for building the ICT competencies of IGNOU faculty as part of ICHEI’s ongoing capacity-building initiatives.

The dialogue also covered several avenues for collaboration, including co-development of academic courses, faculty training programmes, translation of educational resources into regional Indian languages, and IGNOU's participation in the upcoming UNESCO Regional Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education, scheduled to take place in Kathmandu, Nepal on 16th October 2025.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

Press Release
IGNOU and IIT Bombay Sign MoU to Enable Multilingual Access to Education through AI-Powered Translation

In a significant step toward promoting inclusive and equitable education, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT Bombay) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on Project Udaan, an advanced AI-driven translation platform. The signing ceremony was held today at the IGNOU Headquarters, in the presence of senior academic leadership.

The event was chaired by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, and attended by Directors of Schools, Heads of Divisions, Registrars, and other dignitaries. Representing IIT Bombay was Prof. Ganesh Ramakrishnan, Bank of Baroda Chair Professor in Digital Entrepreneurship, and Principal Investigator of Project Udaan.

Project Udaan is a pioneering initiative that integrates optical character recognition (OCR), layout preservation, domain-specific glossaries, and human-in-the-loop editing to deliver high-fidelity translation of academic and technical content into Indian languages. The collaboration aims to make IGNOU’s extensive educational resources available in multiple regional languages, thereby expanding access for learners across the country.

Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor of IGNOU stated, “This partnership with IIT Bombay is a powerful alignment with our vision to democratize higher education. Through Project Udaan, we aim to bridge the language divide and empower learners in every corner of India.”

Prof. Ganesh Ramakrishnan emphasized the social impact of this collaboration, noting, “Udaan is designed to serve the linguistic and educational diversity of India. This MoU marks a critical step in translating that vision into impact at scale, with IGNOU’s vast learner base.”

Prof. Nayantara Padhi, Professor at the School of Management Studies and MoU Coordinator from IGNOU, added, “This collaboration reflects IGNOU’s commitment to educational equity and innovation. By integrating AI-enabled translation tools with our academic delivery, we are opening new doors for learners in regional and rural contexts who will now have access to high-quality content in their own languages.”

This partnership supports the goals outlined in the National Education Policy 2020, particularly the emphasis on multilingual education, digital access, and academic equity. It also contributes to national missions like Digital India and Bharat Bhasha, strengthening India's position in culturally grounded and inclusive AI research.

The collaboration sets a new benchmark in leveraging artificial intelligence for education, reinforcing IGNOU’s role as a leader in distance and open learning and IIT Bombay’s position at the forefront of research and innovation.

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PRESS RELEASE

Open Universities Unite: Forming Association for Collective Impact in Skilling and Education
Three-Day Workshop on Graduate Employability Concludes at IGNOU with Major National Collaboration Initiative

The three-day National Workshop on Graduate Employability, jointly organized by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and the Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia (CEMCA), concluded today at IGNOU Headquarters, New Delhi, with a landmark announcement—the formation of the Indian Public Open Universities Association. The Association aims to create a collaborative national platform to enhance vocational education, skill integration, and employability across Open Universities in alignment with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and the National Credit Framework (NCrF).

Over the course of the workshop, Vice Chancellors and senior officials from 17 Open Universities deliberated on embedding vocational qualifications into academic programs, developing Qualification Packs, and enhancing institutional readiness to address the growing need for employable graduates.

On the second day, a dedicated session showcased CEMCA’s efforts to promote inclusive education through its BUILD Initiative (Building University Inclusion for Learners with Disabilities). Ms. Aparajita from the ChangeInkk Foundation presented the initiative, focusing on mainstreaming students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLDs) in higher education. The presentation emphasized the importance of creating accessible learning environments and inclusive curriculum practices within Open Universities.

Another highlight was the Panel Discussion on Industry-Academia Collaboration, featuring a presentation by Ms. Jaya Awasthi, Principal and Head – Skill Development and Livelihood, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The session emphasized the need for deeper engagement between academia and industry to ensure that educational outcomes align with workforce requirements. An Open House allowed participants to interact directly with industry representatives and explore pathways for partnerships and placement support.

This was followed by a significant session led by Col. Gunjan Chowdhary, Director, National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. He elaborated on the theme of “Enabling Quality Regulation through Recognition of Awarding Bodies”, encouraging Open Universities to seek dual status as recognized vocational and academic awarding institutions under NCVET.

In a key address, Prof. (Dr.) Apoorva Palkar, Vice Chancellor, Maharashtra State Skills University (MSSU), showcased MSSU’s successful model of embedding skill components within degree programs. Her case study presentation, titled “Demystifying 60-40,” outlined effective strategies for balancing academic and vocational content through structured credit frameworks.

In the concluding session, Dr. B. Shadrach, Director, CEMCA, summarized the workshop’s outcomes and reaffirmed the need for collaborative frameworks. He announced the creation of the Indian Public Open Universities Association, which will serve as a united platform for dialogue, innovation, and policy advocacy in the domain of employability and skill-integrated education.

“The future of higher education lies in synergy—between institutions, between academia and industry, and between policy and practice. This Association will help Open Universities work together to scale up vocational education and fulfill the vision of the NEP 2020 and NSQF,” Dr. Shadrach said.

Key recommendations and action points from the workshop include:

• Institutionalizing dual roles for Open Universities as academic and vocational awarding bodies under NCVET. Developing ecosystem building blocks for employability including career services, industry engagement, and faculty training.
• Adding credit-based skill modules (e.g., solar and wind energy) to existing programs.
• Adopting an outcome-based, research-driven curriculum aligned with real-world applications.
• Promoting inclusive education models for students with diverse learning needs.
• The workshop concluded on a high note, signaling a decisive step toward building a future-ready, skilled, and employable India through collaborative leadership in the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) sector.

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MEDIA RELEASE

IGNOU Launches Certificate Programme for Nurse Managers to Strengthen Managerial Competencies in Nursing Services

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), through its School of Health Sciences (SOHS), has launched a Certificate Programme for Nurse Managers under the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. This programme is specifically designed to equip in-service nurses with essential managerial competencies required in today’s dynamic and demanding healthcare settings.

The job role of "Nurse Manager" has been approved by the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) and assigned the National Qualification Register (NQR) Code QG-5.5-HE-03258-2024-V1-IGNOU. Details of the Qualification Pack are available at NQR Portal.

The six-month programme will help participants:

• Apply modern management principles in nursing service administration.
• Collaborate with ancillary departments for seamless hospital/clinical operations.
• Plan and supervise staff recruitment, training, and development.
• Manage resources efficiently within departments.
• Participate in accreditation, quality assurance, patient safety, and nursing audits.

As hospitals and healthcare institutions increasingly focus on nursing excellence standards and quality benchmarks such as NABH accreditation, the role of Nurse Managers has expanded to include strategic planning, decision-making, and quality governance. This certification addresses these evolving needs by building capacity among nurse leaders across public and private health systems.

Eligibility Criteria:

• In-service nurses with 3-year General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) after 10+2, 3 years of experience, and valid RNRM registration
OR
• In-service nurses with 4-year B.Sc. Nursing degree, 2 years of experience, and valid RNRM registration.

Duration: 6 months
Medium of Instruction: English
Programme Fee: ₹8,000 plus registration/development charges as applicable
Seat Capacity per LSC: 50 (admissions through merit if applications exceed available seats)
The programme is ideal for working professionals in hospitals, public health units, and nursing educational institutions who seek to move into managerial roles or enhance their current capabilities.

For details and registration:
Visit: IGNOU Programme Page
Programme Coordinator: Prof. Neerja Sood, Email: nmqp@ignou.ac.in

Press Release

IGNOU Observes Swachhta Pakhwada with Pledge, Plantation and Cleanliness Drive

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) organized a series of activities under Swachhta Pakhwada at its Headquarters to reinforce the importance of cleanliness, environmental responsibility, and community participation.

Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor, IGNOU, administered the Swachhta Pledge to officers, faculty, staff, and students, affirming the University’s commitment towards maintaining hygiene and promoting sustainable practices. A plantation drive was also undertaken on the campus to highlight the significance of green initiatives in fostering a clean and healthy environment.

As part of the campaign, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor, IGNOU, Dr. Alok Chaubey, Registrar, IGNOU, along with other officers and employees, actively participated in the Swachhata Abhiyan by contributing their voluntary labour for the upkeep and beautification of the University premises.

The observance of Swachhta Pakhwada at IGNOU reflects the University’s resolve to align with the national mission of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and to instill in its community a sense of collective responsibility for a cleaner and greener future.

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प्रेस विज्ञप्ति

इग्नू ने शपथ, वृक्षारोपण और सफाई अभियान के साथ स्वच्छता पखवाड़ा मनाया

इंदिरा गांधी राष्ट्रीय मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय (इग्नू) ने स्वच्छता, पर्यावरणीय ज़िम्मेदारी और सामुदायिक भागीदारी के महत्व पर ज़ोर देने के लिए अपने मुख्यालय में स्वच्छता पखवाड़ा के अंतर्गत कई गतिविधियाँ आयोजित कीं।

इग्नू की कुलपति प्रो. उमा कांजीलाल ने अधिकारियों, शिक्षकों, कर्मचारियों और छात्रों को स्वच्छता की शपथ दिलाई और स्वच्छता बनाए रखने और स्थायी प्रथाओं को बढ़ावा देने के प्रति विश्वविद्यालय की प्रतिबद्धता की पुष्टि की। स्वच्छ और स्वस्थ पर्यावरण को बढ़ावा देने में हरित पहलों के महत्व को उजागर करने के लिए परिसर में वृक्षारोपण अभियान भी चलाया गया।

इस अभियान के तहत, इग्नू की कुलपति प्रो. उमा कांजीलाल, इग्नू के कुलसचिव डॉ. आलोक चौबे और अन्य अधिकारियों और कर्मचारियों ने विश्वविद्यालय परिसर के रखरखाव और सौंदर्यीकरण के लिए स्वैच्छिक श्रमदान करके स्वच्छता अभियान में सक्रिय रूप से भाग लिया।

इग्नू में स्वच्छता पखवाड़ा का आयोजन स्वच्छ भारत अभियान के राष्ट्रीय मिशन के साथ जुड़ने तथा अपने समुदाय में स्वच्छ एवं हरित भविष्य के लिए सामूहिक जिम्मेदारी की भावना पैदा करने के विश्वविद्यालय के संकल्प को दर्शाता है।

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Media Release


New Delhi, September 4, 2025:

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has secured the Number 1 position in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 in the Open Universities category, reaffirming its role as a pioneer in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and online education in India.

Reacting to this remarkable achievement, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor, IGNOU, expressed her gratitude to all members of the IGNOU fraternity. “This milestone has been made possible by the dedicated efforts of our faculty, academic, and non-academic staff. At IGNOU, our mission remains clear — to provide affordable, quality education to everyone, everywhere. Going forward, we will strengthen our focus on leveraging digital and technological tools to ensure ease of accessibility, even in the remotest parts of the country. We will continue to expand the use of vernacular languages, multimedia, video-based resources, and blended learning approaches so that education reaches learners in the most inclusive and learner-friendly manner.”

The NIRF Rankings, instituted by the Ministry of Education, Government of India in 2015, assess and rank higher education institutions across the country on parameters such as teaching, learning and resources, research and professional practice, graduation outcomes, outreach and inclusivity, and perception. These rankings are widely regarded as a benchmark for excellence in higher education.

By securing the top position for the second time in a row in the Open Universities category, IGNOU has once again highlighted the crucial role of open and distance education in building an inclusive and knowledge-driven society. With its vast learner base spread across India and abroad, the University continues to innovate in pedagogy and technology to serve as the world’s largest open university.

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मीडिया रिलीज़

एनआईआरएफ रैंकिंग 2025 में इग्नू को मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय श्रेणी में प्रथम स्थान
नई दिल्ली, 4 सितंबर, 2025:

इंदिरा गांधी राष्ट्रीय मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय (इग्नू) ने राष्ट्रीय संस्थागत रैंकिंग फ्रेमवर्क (एनआईआरएफ) 2025 में मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय श्रेणी में प्रथम स्थान प्राप्त किया है, जिससे भारत में मुक्त एवं दूरस्थ शिक्षा (ओडीएल) और ऑनलाइन शिक्षा में अग्रणी के रूप में इसकी भूमिका की पुष्टि होती है।

इस उल्लेखनीय उपलब्धि पर प्रतिक्रिया व्यक्त करते हुए, इग्नू की कुलपति प्रो. उमा कांजीलाल ने इग्नू समुदाय के सभी सदस्यों के प्रति आभार व्यक्त किया। यह उपलब्धि हमारे संकाय, शैक्षणिक और गैर-शैक्षणिक कर्मचारियों के समर्पित प्रयासों से संभव हुई है। इग्नू में, हमारा मिशन स्पष्ट है - सभी को, हर जगह, सस्ती और गुणवत्तापूर्ण शिक्षा प्रदान करना। आगे बढ़ते हुए, हम देश के सबसे दूरस्थ हिस्सों में भी सुगम पहुँच सुनिश्चित करने के लिए डिजिटल और तकनीकी उपकरणों का लाभ उठाने पर अपना ध्यान केंद्रित करेंगे। हम स्थानीय भाषाओं, मल्टीमीडिया, वीडियो-आधारित संसाधनों और मिश्रित शिक्षण पद्धतियों के उपयोग का विस्तार करना जारी रखेंगे ताकि शिक्षा शिक्षार्थियों तक सबसे समावेशी और शिक्षार्थी-अनुकूल तरीके से पहुँच सके।

भारत सरकार के शिक्षा मंत्रालय द्वारा 2015 में स्थापित एनआईआरएफ रैंकिंग, शिक्षण, अधिगम और संसाधन, अनुसंधान और व्यावसायिक अभ्यास, स्नातक परिणाम, आउटरीच और समावेशिता, और धारणा जैसे मानदंडों पर देश भर के उच्च शिक्षा संस्थानों का मूल्यांकन और रैंकिंग करती है। इन रैंकिंग को व्यापक रूप से उच्च शिक्षा में उत्कृष्टता के लिए एक मानक माना जाता है।

मुक्त विश्वविद्यालयों की श्रेणी में लगातार दूसरी बार शीर्ष स्थान प्राप्त करके, इग्नू ने एक बार फिर समावेशी और ज्ञान-आधारित समाज के निर्माण में मुक्त एवं दूरस्थ शिक्षा की महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका को उजागर किया है। भारत और विदेशों में फैले अपने विशाल शिक्षार्थी आधार के साथ, यह विश्वविद्यालय दुनिया के सबसे बड़े मुक्त विश्वविद्यालय के रूप में अपनी सेवा प्रदान करने के लिए शिक्षण और प्रौद्योगिकी में निरंतर नवाचार कर रहा है।

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PRESS RELEASE

ODDL is no longer an alternative; it is the future of education.

New Delhi, 26 August 2025: The two-day International Workshop on “Developing Best Practices for Quality Assurance in Open, Distance, and Online Learning”(25-26 August 2025) concluded at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). The event was jointly organized by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), IGNOU, The Open University (UK), and the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), with support from the British Council.

The workshop brought together 77 participants, including the Chairperson of NAAC and NBA; Director NAAC;Economic Advisor, Ministry of Education, Government of India; Secretary, UGC;Joint Secretary DEB; representatives from the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA, UK); Vice Chancellor of IGNOU; Vice Chancellors of State Open Universities; Vice Chancellor’s delegate and official from The Open University (UK); Director, Centre of Online and Distance Education, University of London; Officials from NAAC; CIQA Directors of Open Universities; Directors of Centre of Distance and Online Education, from dual-mode universities; and industry leaders from IBM and OpenAI.

Key Discussions

• Deliberations highlighted the critical role of Open, Distance, and Digital Learning (ODDL) in achieving India’s Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) target of 50% by 2035. ODDL is now a vital complement to traditional education, requiring strong quality assurance in course design, learner support, transparent assessment, and governance frameworks.
• National Education Policy 2020, underlines opportunities for digital innovation, lifelong learning, and skill development, by integrating Artificial Intelligence in assessments, the growing importance of micro-credentials, and the value of global collaborations to ensure quality and innovation.
• Active engagement, collaboration, and exchange of best practices are needed to build scalable, sustainable, and learner-centric models, ensuring education that is accessible, credible, and impactful for an inclusive society.

The workshop concluded with the message:

“ODDL is no longer an alternative; it is the future of education. With the right policies, technologies, and partnerships, we can ensure lifelong and globally connected learning.”

Key Recommendations

• Policy and Regulation: Frameworks must remain dynamic and accommodative to foster innovation while safeguarding quality. Policies should formally recognize MOOCs, micro-credentials, and lifelong learning pathways. Collaborative platforms such as meta-universities and consortia were recommended to enable co-created courses and expanded access.
• Pedagogy and Technology: The Workshop urged the adoption of global best practices in ODDL. Artificial Intelligence should be used for personalized, data-driven learner assessments, while Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) should enrich content with immersive experiences. Virtual laboratories were highlighted as essential for providing practical, hands-on learning.
• Collaboration and Partnerships: Expansion of joint and dual degree programmes, strengthening of international research collaboration, and stronger industry-academia partnerships were recommended to align curricula with future workplace skills. Establishing foreign university campuses in India was seen as an opportunity for global exchange, provided affordability, accessibility, and quality parity are maintained.
• Capacity Building and Inclusion: Ongoing professional development for faculty, administrators, and learners was identified as vital for strengthening digital readiness and ensuring effective participation in the ODDL ecosystem.

The workshop reaffirmed that quality assurance in ODDL will be central to shaping the future of higher education, requiring joint efforts by policymakers, academia, industry, and international partners.

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Press Release

Workshop on Developing Best Practices for Quality Assurance in Open, Distance & Online Learning

IGNOU Campus, New Delhi- August 25, 2025

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The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), in partnership with The Open University (UK) and the Quality Assurance Agency (UK), are jointly organizing a two-day international workshop on “Developing Best Practices for Quality Assurance in Open, Distance & Digital Learning (ODDL)” on 25th–26th August 2025 at the Baba Saheb Ambedkar Convention Centre, IGNOU, New Delhi.

The NEP 2020 emphasizes achieving 50% GER in higher education by 2035 with focus on accessibility and equity. However, achieving this target is possible only by expanding Open Distance and online education. While increasing GER will be achieved through systematic efforts, ensuring quality of graduates is a paramount challenge for the higher education system.

Capacity building in Quality Assurance is one of the key focus areas of NAAC to enable the Higher education institutions to achieve a threshold level of national quality as well as make the Indian higher education institutions to position themselves at the global levels.

As part of the above, NAAC in collaboration with IGNOU is organizing this workshop for the benefit of Open and Dual mode universities. The workshop is bringing together academic leaders, quality assurance experts, policymakers, and technology providers from India and the United Kingdom to deliberate on collaborative opportunities in ODDL including sharing best practices in quality assurance and achieving better learner experiences.

The best practices in quality assurance are discussed in areas such as curriculum development, assessment, micro-credentials and AI applications on ODL/OL education.

The deliberations will focus on:

• Exchanging best practices in quality assurance to improve ODDL delivery and learner outcomes.
• Strengthening collaboration between Indian and UK institutions to advance quality standards in digital learning.

Keynote and thematic sessions will be led by eminent experts, including Prof. Ganesan Kannabiran, Director, NAAC; Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU; Prof. Devendra Kodwani, Vice Chancellor Delegate-The Open University, UK; Mr. Ian James Welch-Quality Assurance Agency, UK; Linda Cooper-University of London; and global technology leaders from IBM and OpenAI.

The workshop will feature plenary addresses, breakout sessions, thematic discussions, and an action plan for future collaborations between the UK and India. It is expected to provide valuable insights into strengthening the ecosystem of ODDL and enhancing its credibility among all the stakeholders.

The workshop will continue over two days with intensive deliberations on frameworks, practices, and collaborative strategies for enhancing the credibility, effectiveness, and reach of open, distance, and online education in India and globally.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

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Media Release

IGNOU Launches Study Materials for Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education in Odia

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The release ceremony of the Diploma Programme in Early Childhood Care and Education (DECE) study materials in Odia language was held on 18th August 2025 at Lok Sabha Bhawan, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The event was graced by Smt. Pravati Parida, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Women and Child Development, Government of Odisha; Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister of Higher Education; and Ms. Manisha Banerji, Director, Women and Child Development, in the presence of Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor, IGNOU.

Shri Aravind Agrawal, Commissioner-cum-Principal Secretary, Higher Education, welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted IGNOU’s commendable role in promoting education in the mother tongue.

Prof. Rekha Sharma Sen, Programme Coordinator, DECE, emphasized the importance of nurturing and stimulating environments in the first six years of childhood and the role of play-based and activity-based approaches in early learning. She underlined that the programme is designed to create trained professionals equipped with both theoretical and practical knowledge in early childhood care and education.

In her address, Prof. Kanjilal highlighted the prominence accorded to Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, including the creation of a Foundational Stage beginning with three years of preschool. She stressed the NEP’s call for developing a trained cadre of functionaries to competently teach children in the balvatika class through culturally contextualised learning opportunities.

Shri Suryabanshi Suraj stated that it was a proud moment today for Odia language and Odia culture as the first set of study materials have been translated into Odia under the MoU of the State with IGNOU. He said this would greatly benefit the students as they have multiple language options for study, making it easier to understand concepts.

Smt. Pravati Parida acknowledged that the DECE programme could serve as a pre-service training initiative for aspiring Anganwadi workers, adding that candidates completing the Diploma would be given preference in recruitment. She lauded the dedication of DECE learners who joined virtually from across Odisha, affirming that their motivation reflects a promising future for young children. She further emphasized the programme’s significance in preparing a trained cadre of balvatika teachers.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Prof. Nayantara Padhi.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

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Media Release

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) have signed an MoU to establish the CII–IGNOU Career Edge Academy, aimed at delivering industry-aligned skilling programs across hospitality, healthcare, IT, BFSI, cyber security, event management, and languages.

The MoU was exchanged in the presence of Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU, and dignitaries from government, industry, and academia, including officials from the Ministries of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Tourism.

The Academy will offer industry aligned courses from CII and IGNOU, integrate government apprenticeship schemes, and deliver programs in blended and multilingual formats to ensure inclusivity for learners in Tier-2/3 cities and rural areas.

Prof. Kanjilal called the partnership “a commitment to create a skilled, confident, and employable workforce,” aligning with NEP 2020 and the National Credit Framework.

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MEDIA INVITE

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and Akhil Bhartiya Anuvrat Nyas to Host the 10th Anuvrat Nyas Nidhi Vyakhyan

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), in collaboration with Akhil Bhartiya Anuvrat Nyas, will be organising the 10th Anuvrat Nyas Nidhi Vyakhyan on the theme “Issues of the World and Bharatiyata” on Tuesday, 22nd July 2025 at 03:00 PM.

The event will be graced by the presence of the Honourable Dr. Mohanrao Bhagwat, Chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, who will attend the programme as the Chief Guest. Adding spiritual depth to the occasion, Dr. Munishri Abhijit Kumar ji and Munishri Jagrit Kumar ji, esteemed disciples of Acharya Shri Mahashramanji, will also be in attendance.

The lecture will take place at the prestigious Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, 15 Janpath, New Delhi.

The Anuvrat Nidhi Vyakhyan series is a significant intellectual initiative that brings to the forefront critical contemporary issues through the lens of Indian thought and ethical values. The theme for this year’s lecture, “Issues of the World and Bharatiyata”, aims to explore global challenges while reflecting on India’s civilizational wisdom and cultural ethos.

The programme will be broadcast live for wider outreach through the following platforms:

• GYAN DARSHAN (IGNOU TV Channel)
• Facebook Live: @OfficialPageIGNOU
• YouTube Live: Click here to watch
• SWAYAM PRABHA – DTH Channels 11–16 (Higher Education Channels by IGNOU)

Members of the media are cordially invited to attend and cover this distinguished event.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

Anuvrat.jpg

MEDIA RELEASE

IGNOU Invites Applications for PG Diploma and Certificate in Advertising and Integrated Communications for July 2025 Session

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), a global leader in Open and Distance Learning (ODL), is offering the Post Graduate Diploma in Advertising and Integrated Communication (PGDAIC) for the July 2025 session. The programme is designed to meet the growing demand for trained professionals in the dynamic fields of advertising, digital media, branding, and public relations.

Offered through the flexible and learner-centric ODL mode, the programme aims to provide both conceptual understanding and practical knowledge of advertising and integrated communication, empowering learners with industry-ready skills. The course is especially beneficial for working professionals, fresh graduates, entrepreneurs, and NGO workers seeking to enhance their communication and media competencies.

Programme Details:

• Duration: Minimum 1 year to Maximum 3 years
• Eligibility: Graduation in any discipline. Basic computer literacy and access to the internet are essential.
• Medium of Instruction: English
• Age Limit: No age bar
• Mode: Open and Distance Learning (ODL)

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the programme will be well-equipped to take on roles such as:

• Advertising Executives
• Copywriters and Content Creators
• Digital Marketing Managers
• Public Relations Officers
• Social Media Strategists
• Brand Managers
• Corporate Communication Professionals
• Media Planners and Analysts
• Campaign Designers for NGOs and Public Service Organisations

The programme offers learners the flexibility to pursue their studies while working and provides an affordable pathway to upgrade professional credentials in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

For more information and to apply, visit:
https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

PRESS RELEASE

First in India: IGNOU Launches Online Courses on Sand Art

New Delhi, July 15, 2025:

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), in collaboration with internationally acclaimed sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik, has launched two pioneering SWAYAM online courses on Sand Art, marking a historic step in integrating India’s rich cultural heritage into digital learning.

These two courses - titled “Introduction to Sand Art” and “Principles & Formats of Sand Art” - have been specially curated and delivered by Sudarsan Pattnaik, who brings decades of experience and global recognition in this unique art form from Odisha. Designed for learners across all age groups and backgrounds, the courses aim to nurture creativity, promote Indian art on a global platform, and provide structured learning pathways in the field of visual arts.

The launch event held jointly by IGNOU and Mr. Pattnaik at the IGNOU Head Quarter at New Delhi in presence of Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU and other officials of IGNOU.

Speaking at the occasion, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU, said,
“This collaboration embodies the vision of NEP 2020 to integrate Indian Knowledge Systems and art forms into mainstream education. Through SWAYAM, we are proud to bring sand art to the fingertips of learners across the country and the world. This is the first of its kind initiative to offer courses on Sand Art.”

Padma Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik expressed his enthusiasm, stating,
“It is my dream to make Sand Art a global symbol of Indian creativity. With IGNOU and SWAYAM, we are now empowering thousands to learn this art from anywhere. This is not just a course—it’s a celebration of India’s heritage and storytelling through sand. Thanks to Ministry of Education and IGNOU for making my dream a reality and for making Sand Art a vocational and skill-based education form.”

Each course is structured into video lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on assignments, and offers a certificate upon successful completion. The Introduction course introduces learners to basic tools, techniques, and creative expression, while the second course dives deeper into large-scale sculptures, thematic compositions, and the cultural narratives behind sand art.

These courses are now available for free enrollment on the following links:

https://onlinecourses.swayam2.ac.in/nou25_as02/preview

https://onlinecourses.swayam2.ac.in/nou25_as03/preview

This initiative aligns with IGNOU’s ongoing mission to democratize education, foster inclusive learning, and showcase India’s traditional and contemporary art forms on digital platforms.

Event Photographs

MEDIA RELEASE

IGNOU Pays Tribute to Its Visionary Founder on the Occasion of the 30th Prof. G. Ram Reddy Memorial Lecture

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) observed the 30th Prof. G. Ram Reddy Memorial Lecture, celebrating the extraordinary legacy of its Founding Vice Chancellor, Prof. G. Ram Reddy — a pioneer of open and distance education in India. The commemorative event brought together distinguished dignitaries, scholars, educators, and learners to reflect on the continuing relevance of Prof. Reddy’s vision in the rapidly evolving educational landscape.

The keynote address was delivered by Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog, who spoke on the compelling theme: “Building a Future-Ready Workforce: Education, Skills, and the Digital Transition.”

Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog, on the occasion of the 30th Prof. G. Ram Reddy Memorial Lecture said:
“In today’s rapidly evolving world of work, driven by digital transformation and technological disruption, India must prepare its human capital for not only jobs of the future but for continuous, lifelong learning. Our policy priorities must reflect this urgency: stronger skilling ecosystems, equitable access to digital tools, and proactive reskilling for youth, women, and informal workers alike. As India aims to become a developed economy by 2047, our demographic dividend gives us an unprecedented opportunity. However, productivity, inclusion, and innovation must go hand in hand. Prof. Reddy believed that education is not merely a means to employment—it is a means to empowerment. That principle must guide our collective efforts in building Viksit Bharat.”

On Prof. G. Ram Reddy's contributions as a pioneering architect of India’s distance education revolution, Shri Suman Bery said:
“He championed an inclusive, learner-centric model of education that broke barriers of geography, class, and opportunity. His legacy is one of radical democratization of knowledge—an ethos that resonates deeply as we envision a future-ready India. His contributions remain foundational in our ongoing pursuit of equity and excellence in education. As we honour his memory today, we are reminded that true nation-building begins with empowering every citizen to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the country's progress.”

Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU, delivered the Presidential Address, recalling Prof. Reddy’s visionary contributions to democratizing higher education. She reiterated IGNOU’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity, highlighting the University’s strides in online learning platforms and multilingual video lectures that ensure access to quality education across geographies and socio-economic backgrounds.

The annual lecture serves not only as a moment of remembrance but also as a platform for reflecting on contemporary challenges in education and governance — issues that Prof. Reddy passionately engaged with during his lifetime. The event reaffirmed IGNOU’s role as a torchbearer of accessible, lifelong learning for millions of Indians.

The lecture was broadcast live, reaching a vast audience through various mediums. It was streamed via Gyan Darshan, SWAYAM PRABHA Channels (11-16), the official YouTube channel, and the Facebook Page of IGNOU.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

Event Photographs

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU Offers Certificate Programme in Health Care Waste Management (CHCWM)

Developed in Collaboration with WHO to Strengthen Public Health and Environmental Safety

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), South-East Asia Region, has developed the Certificate in Health Care Waste Management (CHCWM) — a comprehensive programme designed to enhance the knowledge and skills required for effective and safe management of health care waste. This initiative addresses a critical need for better waste handling practices to prevent health hazards and protect communities and the environment.

The CHCWM programme aims to sensitize learners to the health and environmental risks posed by improper disposal of health care waste. It is intended for professionals and paraprofessionals working in healthcare facilities, sanitation services, and waste management sectors, particularly in the context of the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016 (amended in 2018 and 2019) and WHO’s “Safe Management of Wastes from Health-Care Activities” (2014).

Programme Objectives:

• To create awareness on the types and impacts of health care waste.
• To familiarize learners with current legislation, infection control norms, and practices across the South-East Asia region.
• To build practical skills for the safe and effective handling and disposal of such waste.

Key Features:

• Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent
• Duration: Minimum six months; maximum two years
• Sessions: January-June and July-December
• Learning Mode: Blended learning including Self-Instructional Materials (SIMs), live web conferencing, instructional videos, Q&A forums, and access to a dedicated online platform
• Elective Options: Choice of a workshop or project in addition to other theory courses
• Assessment: Includes assignments, and term-end examinations

The programme not only offers robust academic content, but also encourages practical engagement through workshops and project work, ensuring learners gain real-world experience in managing biomedical waste safely and in compliance with national and international guidelines.

This programme has been endorsed by Central and state governments who sponsor health functionaries in this programme to be trained as master trainers.

Admissions for the CHCWM programme are now open. Interested candidates can apply online via the Samarth portal through the link https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

PRESS RELEASE

IGNOU and CEMCA Inaugurate National Workshop on Graduate Employability for Open Universities
June 4–6, 2025 | IGNOU Headquarters, New Delhi

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), in collaboration with the Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia (CEMCA), inaugurated a three-day National Workshop on Graduate Employability today at the IGNOU Headquarters, New Delhi. The workshop brings together Vice Chancellors and senior officials from 17 Open Universities across India, with the shared objective of enhancing the employability of graduates through vocational integration and skill-based learning.

In her inaugural address, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU, provided an overview of the workshop’s vision and stressed the importance of aligning academic programs with industry needs. She urged the participants to “deliberate on ways to integrate vocational components into academic programs to make them industry-ready and relevant for the evolving job market.”

Speaking at the session, Dr. B. Shadrach, Director, CEMCA, emphasized the role of Open Universities in building a future-ready workforce. “This workshop aims to capture the perspectives of Vice Chancellors on the vocational qualification packs developed by NCVET. Open Universities have the scale and potential to train large populations. Beyond course delivery, OUs must also provide robust career services support. A new curriculum framework with real-world applications and an interdisciplinary approach is the need of the hour,” he said.

Mr. Mrutyunjay Behera, Economic Advisor (Higher Education), Ministry of Education, Government of India, addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of lifelong learning in the current economic and technological context. “Reskilling is critical in today’s dynamic landscape. As industries evolve, so must our education systems. To truly accrue the demographic dividend, Open Universities must take up the key responsibility of skilling and reskilling the youth,” he remarked.

The workshop will focus on developing Qualification Packs, aligning courses with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), and building institutional strategies for career-oriented and vocational education. Deliberations over the next two days are expected to significantly contribute to national efforts aimed at making higher education more responsive to workforce needs.

PRESS NOTE

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To commemorate World Environment Day 2025, the School of Inter-Disciplinary and Trans-Disciplinary Studies (SOITS) at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) organized a National Seminar on the theme “Ending Plastic Pollution”, reflecting the global call for urgent and collective action to tackle one of the planet’s most persistent environmental challenges.

The seminar was convened by Prof. Nandini Sinha Kapur, Director, SOITS, who emphasized the need for interdisciplinary approaches to solving complex ecological problems such as plastic pollution. In her welcome address, she highlighted the importance of educational institutions like IGNOU in shaping sustainable mindsets and catalyzing policy-level change.

The keynote speaker, Ms. Swati Singh Sambyal, Senior Circular Economy and Partnerships Expert, shared deep insights on India’s evolving plastic waste management policies, the role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and the need for a systemic shift toward circular business models, reuse-refill systems, and stronger integration of the informal waste sector. She called for enhanced collaboration among industry, academia, and government to scale indigenous innovations and sustainable alternatives.

The seminar was coordinated by Dr. Deeksha Dave, Associate Professor at SOITS.

The event brought together faculty members, researchers, students, and stakeholders from the environmental and academic communities.

With an engaging exchange of ideas and a reaffirmed commitment to sustainability, the seminar concluded with a pledge to promote the principles of Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle—guiding pillars for a cleaner, greener, plastic-free future.

Rajesh Sharma
Public Relations Office
Indira Gandhi National Open University

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Event Photographs

PRESS RELEASE

New Delhi, 21 May 2025 — The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) became the epicentre of a compelling national dialogue as it hosted the National Students Leader’s Conclave on the theme “One Nation, One Election”. The event witnessed thought-provoking deliberations by eminent political leaders, igniting a powerful discourse on the future of India's electoral system.

Delivering the keynote address, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare & Minister of Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, made a passionate case for simultaneous elections across the country.

“Too many elections are not in the national interest. Elections demand enormous resources and manpower, which are drained repeatedly through frequent polling exercises. This has become a roadblock in our journey towards a Viksit Bharat. The time is ripe to move decisively towards ‘One Nation, One Vote’,” he asserted.

Adding strategic insight to the conversation, BJP National General Secretary Shri Sunil Bansal spotlighted the economic and democratic advantages of the proposal.

“Implementing simultaneous elections can potentially enhance India’s GDP by 1.56%. More importantly, it will streamline the electoral process, enhance transparency, and reinforce the foundations of our democracy,” he emphasized.

Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU, welcomed the dignitaries and underscored the university’s ongoing role in fostering debates on national policy and reform.

“IGNOU has always been at the forefront of promoting ideas that shape the nation’s future. ‘One Nation, One Election’ is not just a political vision—it is a strategic move towards unity, efficiency, and inclusive development,” she remarked.

The event concluded on a high note with an energetic Q&A session, where inquisitive students and faculty engaged directly with the speakers, reflecting the intellectual vibrancy of the IGNOU community. Regional centres from all over the country actively participated actively in the prog and IGNOU students asked questions on the subject.

Rajesh Sharma, PRO, IGNOU.

Event Photographs

IGNOU has signed an MOU with Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Ltd. (MKCL)to offer Work-based Bachelor of Business Administration (Services Management) Programme, (BBA @ Workplace).This MOU aims to offer an innovative work-based Bachelor of Business Administration (Services Management) programme for young aspiring professionals who want to pursue a bright career in Services Industry Pan India.In the presence of Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU, the MOU was signed by Dr. Alok Chaube,Registrar (Administration), IGNOU and Prof. Sameer Pande, Managing Director, MKCL Pune.

Welcoming the MKCL’s Managing DirectorProf. Sameer Pande, and Senior General Manager, Dr. Revathi Namjoshi, Prof. M. S. Senam Raju, Director, School of Management Studies, IGNOU said that the unique pedagogy adopted by MKCL for the Bachelor programme which predominantly is online based with learning while working focus, and added that he is hopeful of the success of the programme as it draws strength from both the organization benefiting the learner.

The MoU Signing Ceremony has been witnessed by the Directors of Schools, Heads of Divisions/ Centres/ Units and faculty members of the School of Management Studies.

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has announced an extension of the deadline for submitting online applications for the entrance examination for B.Ed. and B.Sc. Nursing programs (January 2025 Session). The entrance exam is scheduled to be held on March 16, 2025.

The new deadline for submission of online application forms is now 6:00 PM on February 28, 2025. Interested candidates who have not yet applied are encouraged to do so before the extended deadline.

Candidates are advised to visit the official IGNOU website (www.ignou.ac.in) regularly for the latest updates and detailed information regarding the entrance examination, eligibility criteria, and application process.

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) will host its 38th Convocation on March 5, 2025, at its headquarters in Maidan Garhi, New Delhi, with simultaneous ceremonies at Regional Centers across the country and also at Overseas centers. The event will be graced by the Hon’ble Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan as the Chief Guest. As part of the ceremony, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, the Honorable Education Minister of India, will deliver the convocation address.

During the ceremony, IGNOU will confer nearly 2.8 lakh degrees, diplomas, and certificates to successful students across India.

To ensure widespread accessibility, the Convocation will be broadcast live on IGNOU’s YouTube Channel (eGyankosh), official Facebook page (@OfficialPageIGNOU), and SWAYAM PRABHA Channels (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16). Additionally, GyanDarshan TV, the university’s dedicated channel, will also air the event live.

We kindly request esteemed media publications to feature this pre-event announcement for wider outreach. Invitations for the Convocation will be shared soon, and we look forward to your continued support in making this event a grand success.

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), School of Sciences (SOS), is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the Post Graduate Diploma in Geoinformatics (PGDGI). This innovative programme is designed to equip learners with essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the rapidly growing field of geoinformatics.

Programme Objectives

The PGDGI programme aims to:

• Provide learners with a foundational understanding of the principles, concepts, methods, and techniques in geoinformation science.
• Develop skills in geospatial data handling, processing, and analysis.
• Expand opportunities for learners to pursue higher studies and build careers in diverse sectors requiring geoinformatics expertise.

Target Group

The programme is ideal for:

• Defence and law-enforcement personnel seeking to enhance their geospatial knowledge.
• Educators at schools, colleges, and universities interested in teaching geoinformation science.
• Working professionals with little or no exposure to geoinformatics but eager to develop skills in this field.
• Graduates from various disciplines looking to acquire practical geospatial data handling and application skills.

Job and Future Prospects

Geoinformatics is a fast-growing field with expanding career opportunities. Trained professionals are in high demand across sectors such as:

• Rural and urban planning
• Environmental monitoring
• Natural resources management
• Management of natural hazards and disasters

Programme Highlights

• Duration: Minimum 1 year; Maximum 3 years
• Age Limit: No age bar
• Programme Fee: ₹15,700/- for the entire programme
• Medium of Instruction: English
• Eligibility: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university/institution

How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply online by visiting: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and open doors to a promising career in geoinformatics. Applications are now open!

IGNOU's Campus Placement Cell is pleased to announce a campus placement drive in collaboration with SBI Life Insurance Co. Ltd., offering exciting career opportunities to eligible candidates.

Date: 11th February 2025
Venue: Convention Centre, IGNOU Campus, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi-110068
Time:

• Reporting and Registration: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
• Pre-placement Talk: 11:00 AM

Job Details
Positions Available:

• Unit Manager
• Business Development Manager

Nature of Employment: Permanent
Key Responsibilities:

• Familiarizing with all products and services offered by SBI Life Insurance.
• Procuring new clients through direct contact and collaboration between Life Mitra and bankers (CFIs).

Key Skills Required:

• Sales Planning
• Customer Relationship Management
• Effective Communication

Salary & Incentives:

• Fixed CTC: ₹2.85 Lacs per annum
• Fresh Graduates are welcome to apply; candidates with sales experience will be given preference.

Age Limit: 21–30 years
Minimum Qualification: Graduation
Work Location: Across various branches in Delhi/NCR
Career Growth Path:
Apprentice/GST > Sales Executive – Retail Agency/Banca/IA
Selection Process

• Group Discussion
• Personal Interview

Important Instructions for Applicants

1. Pre-placement Talk: A brief introductory session highlighting the company profile, job roles, and compensation details will be conducted at 11:00 AM.
2. Mandatory Documents to Carry:
   • Two copies of updated Resume/CV
   • IGNOU ID Card (two copies)
   • Two passport-size color photographs
   • SSC, HSC, and Graduation/Post-Graduation mark sheets and degree/provisional certificates
   • Appointment letter and last 3 months' salary slips (if experienced)
   • PAN Card and Aadhaar Card
3. Dress Code: Formal attire is mandatory.
4. Late Arrivals: Candidates reporting after 11:00 AM will not be allowed to participate in the drive.
5. Extended Duration: The selection process may continue till late evening; applicants are advised to plan accordingly.

Registration & Contact Information
For more information and registration:
Email: careers.north2@sbilife.co.in
Contact Person from IGNOU: Director (CPC) | Phone: 011-29571114

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This is a golden opportunity to kickstart your career with SBI Life Insurance Co. Ltd., one of India's leading insurance companies. We encourage all eligible candidates to participate and make the most of this placement drive.

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Issued by:

Director, Campus Placement Cell
Indira Gandhi National Open University

IGNOU is the world's largest national open university established by an Act of Parliament in 1985. The School Of Agriculture in IGNOU has introduced an MBA(Agribusiness Management) in the July 2024 session. This program aims to include competent business professionals to enhance the agri-business activities to turn the farmers' economy. This MBA program is getting enthusiastic responses from aspiring learners nationwide due to good entrepreneurial and employment opportunities in the agribusiness field.

The scope of enhancing profitability and efficiency in the agriculture sector by promoting agribusiness and startups is getting the attention of policy planners in India. However, the focus on agribusiness and startups needs to be supplemented with qualified and skilled manpower. The IGNOU’s MBA (Agribusiness Management) program addresses the critical need of providing human resources with desired management competency. The ability of the farm community, youth and agri-stakeholders will be enhanced to improve income prospects and overall agricultural productivity.

MBAABM program fosters managerial skills and provides need-based education in a flexible mode, enhancing efficiency and generating more livelihoods and profitability in the agriculture sector.

The MBAABM program of IGNOU aims to generate competent business professionals in agriculture, food, rural and allied sectors; fostering startups and entrepreneurship among farmers, intermediaries and traders within the agri-business chain. It seeks to equip these professionals with specific managerial skills, develop expertise in managing the techno-commercial aspects of agribusiness and impart the knowledge necessary to effectively address national development plans, agricultural policies and global trade.

The Programme Targets a diverse range of participants, including fresh graduates, progressive farmers and agricultural extension workers. It caters to traders, intermediaries, technicians, and managers in agro-industries and enterprises dealing with agricultural inputs and outputs. Professionals from NGOs, cooperatives, FPOs, SHGs, corporate entities, and financial and marketing organizations will be benefited as well. The MBAABM program aids in becoming an entrepreneur, involved in private companies, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and international institutions, providing diverse opportunities for learners to make a significant impact in the agricultural sector.

MBAABM program includes a comprehensive set of courses designed to equip learners with a broad range of skills in management and agribusiness. The programme focuses on agribusiness management and policies, project management, commodity trading, production & supply chain management, procurement & materials management in agribusiness, along with a significant project work component. Detailed learning will be provided on all the new aspects of agriculture and allied activities like horticultural production, post-harvest management, livestock,agri-equipment, renewable energy in agriculture, organic farming, food safety & quality and agricultural extension. The programme led to a robust foundation and advanced expertise in managing various aspects of agribusiness.

The programme is of 2 years duration and graduates in any discipline are eligible for admission. Detailed information about the programme is available in the IGNOU website at https://www.ignou.ac.in/schools/programme/MBAABM

Admission To the programme is open for January 2025session. For registration in the programme, learners are advised to visit the IGNOU admission portal https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/

Agriculture is a resourceful profession and enhancing farmers' income is a major goal of various national schemes and programmes being implemented in the country. The farming community is being sensitized on two aspects namely cost management and return maximization. Efforts are being made to supplement the income from main farm activities along with allied agro-based activities such as value addition and diversification. Agripreneurship / agri-startupsoffer great opportunities to minimize the cost of farm production and provide an increased source of income. The farmers' producer organizations (FPOs) and cooperatives are effectively utilized to strengthen the farm sector by developing backwards and forward linkages in the agriculture supply chain.

To supplement all these efforts, IGNOU and ICMAI have jointly developed an Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programme “Diploma in Agricultural Cost Management’’. And it was offered to the aspirant from. The DACM programme's major objectives include optimal resource utilisation, proficiency in knowledge, skills, and entrepreneurial capabilities towards farm cost management, value chain, and supply chain management.

The purpose of "Diploma in Agricultural Cost Management" is to educate and train learners to efficiently manage farm costs and enhance agricultural productivity and provide insight into various activities including strategic decision-making related to different aspects of agricultural production, crop cultivation, livestock rearing, financial planning, resource allocation, marketing, and risk mitigation.

The course targets urban and rural youth, small and medium entrepreneurs, farmers' organizations, NGO functionaries and trainers, and progressive farmers, with a minimum eligibility requirement of passing 10+2 in any discipline. The course duration ranges from a minimum of one year to a maximum of three years.

"Diploma in Agricultural Cost Management" programeoffers a comprehensive range of courses in agriculture, catering to the diverse needs of students and professionals in the field. These cover various aspects of agricultural management and entrepreneurship, providing valuable insights and skills to individuals interested in agricultural development. The courses include “Basics of Agriculture” provides a foundational understanding of agricultural principles and practices, “Institutional Support for Agricultural Development” delves into the various organizations and institutions involved in supporting agricultural growth and development. The “Cost Concepts and Techniques" equips learners with essential knowledge and techniques related to cost management in agriculture. “Farm Cost Management" focuses specifically on managing costs within farm operations to enhance efficiency and profitability. “Agripreneurship" explores the entrepreneurial aspects of agriculture, empowering students to create and manage agricultural ventures. Lastly, “Managing Farmers Producers Organizations" addresses the management and organizational aspects of farmers' groups, emphasizing effective leadership and coordination for collective benefit. Together, these courses form a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare individuals for various roles and responsibilities in the agricultural sector, ranging from farm management to entrepreneurship and organizational leadership.

Admission to the programme for the January 2025 session has been opened. For admission, online forms are invited at https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/ More information about the programme is available at the IGNOU website www.ignou.ac.in

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is inviting applications for M.Sc. (Chemistry) Programme (MSCCHEM) for Jan, 2025 session. Designed to cater to the aspirations of science graduates, the programme offers a unique blend of academic rigor and flexibility.

Programme Highlights

• Duration: Minimum 2 years; Maximum 4 years.
• Credits: 80 (semester-based structure).
• Medium of Instruction: English.
• Age Limit: No age bar.
• Fee Structure: Rs. 20,200/- per annum (Rs. 40,400/- for the entire programme).

Eligibility Criteria

The programme welcomes applications from graduates who meet the following qualifications:

1. B.Sc. (Major/Honours) in Chemistry from a recognized university.
2. B.Sc. degree (or equivalent) from a recognized university with Chemistry as one of three equally weighted science subjects.
3. B.Sc. degree from an Open University with a minimum of 20 credits in Chemistry courses.

Programme Objectives

The M.Sc. (Chemistry) programme is designed to:

• Offer higher education opportunities in Chemistry to science graduates.
• Enable learners to upgrade their academic qualifications.
• Support career advancement in teaching, research, and industry.

Admissions Open Now!

Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply and take a step toward advancing their education and career. For more details and to apply, visit IGNOU’s official website.

Food safety is an emerging discipline and has become an area of priority and necessity for manufacturers, retailers, and regulators and consumers. Enforcement of Science-based Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 has resulted in the requirement for a large number of qualified and trained workforce at different levels. School of Agriculture, IGNOU is offering a Bachelor’s degree programme in the area of Food Safety and Quality Management in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode.

Objectives:

• To generate human resources in the area of food safety and quality management;
• To enhance knowledge and skills in multi-disciplinary areas like food science, food processing and food safety; and
• To promote self-employment in food processing, food safety and food auditing.

Duration: Minimum: 3 years and Maximum: 6 years
Eligibility: 10+2 with Science/Agriculture subject or its equivalent
Unique features of the programme:

• First-of-its-kind Bachelor’s degree programme in the area of Food Safety and Quality Management in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode.
• Developed as per the NEP and UGC’sFYUP guidelines.
• Provision of Multiple Entry and Multiple Exit Options.
• Multi-disciplinary and Interdisciplinary approach

Employment opportunities:

• Food safety team leader/Supervisor/Manager in Food industry/hospitality institutions
• Technical Officer in Quality Control department
• Food safety officer/inspector in Regulatory bodies, Food Safety Department etc.
• Food Safety Auditor in certification and inspection bodies
• Trainer/Counsellor in training/counselling bodies.
• Member of supply chain management team in retail chain/ industry
• Self-Employment as certifying professionals, counsellor, trainer, auditor

Join the programme, become a food safety professional and contribute to the food safety culture.
Programme Coordinators

Prof. Vijayakumar P.,		Prof. Mukesh Kumar,
011-29573092; pvkumar@ignou.ac.in		011-29572971; mkumar@ignou.ac.in

Link for admission: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/

In line with the National Education Policy, 2020 IGNOU has been making efforts to offer higher education in regional languages. In this sequence, the MBA study materials of IGNOU have been released by Hon’ble Union Minister of Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan ji on 21.01.2025 in a function at Jayadev Bhawan, Sachivalaya Marg, Bhubaneswar. Shri Pradhan was the Chief Guest on the occasion. Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Sports & Youth Services, Govt. of Odisha and Shri Sampad Chandra Swain, Hon’ble Minister of State for Skill Development, Technical Education and Industries, Govt. of Odisha graced the occasion as Guests of Honour. The release ceremony took place in the august presence of Prof. T G Sitharam, Chairman, All India Council for Technical Education [AICTE], Govt. of India and Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor of IGNOU and Shri Mrutyunjay Behera, Economic Advisor and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Education, Govt. of India.

Union Education Minister, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan lauded the contribution of IGNOU in spreading quality higher education in the nooks and corners of the country. Shri Pradhan emphasized the importance of higher education in mother tongue and underlined the evolution of thought process in mother tongue as a scientific phenomenon. He went on to say that innovative thoughts are inspired when one learns in one’s mother tongue. He also emphasized that love for one’s mother tongue does not imply undermining English or any other language. He thanked both IGNOU and AICTE for the launching of study materials of technical and professional education in different regional languages and expected that in the days to come, IGNOU will make endeavours to offer more and more programmes in the regional languages including in Odia.

Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Govt. of Odisha appreciated the role of the Union Ministry of Education in spreading education in the mother tongue. He went on to add that Odisha is in the process of implementing different facets of the National Education Policy, 2020 of which provision of education in Mother Tongue is a great part. He praised IGNOU’s activities in spreading higher education in the country irrespective of caste, creed, region, gender and age. He said that IGNOU has a great potential to offer higher education to the youth and working people of Odisha who constitute a very substantial portion of the state population.

Shri Sampad Chandra Swain, Hon’ble Minister, Govt. of Odisha appreciated the role of IGNOU in the process of providing education in an inclusive manner to different sections of the society. He offered all help and cooperation in furtherance of IGNOU’s efforts in spreading education in the State in general and technical education in particular.

Prof. Prof. T G Sitharam added that in line with the National Education Policy, 2020 of offering technical education in the region in regional languages, AICTE has been making efforts to have study materials in the regional language. He appreciated the efforts of IGNOU as a partner in this noble venture.

Prof. Uma Kanjilal, VC, IGNOU spoke regarding the mandate of IGNOU in providing quality higher education to all sections of the society at affordable prices at their doorstep. She informed that Odia was the 2nd language after English in which IGNOU is now going to offer its management programme. She lauded the efforts of IGNOU Management faculty and the experts in this venture. While informing the audience that RC-Bhubaneswar has already got four University Gold Medals for Best Student Services, she praised the efforts of RC-Bhubaneswar in offering the programmes of the University and carrying out all its innovative activities.

Professor Nayantara Padhi, Faculty of Management Studies, IGNOU thanked the experts of the Management faculties from across the State of Odisha in the making of the MBA study materials in Odia language. She also thanked the Ministry of Education for its earnest efforts to spread higher education in mother tongue.

Dr S K Tripathy, Sr. Regional Director, IGNOU RC, Bhubaneswar offered the Vote of Thanks, Dr Srikant Mohapatra, Former Pro-Vice Chancellor, IGNOU and Former Vice Chancellor of Odisha State Open University, Dr M K Das, Regional Director, Regional Evaluation Centre, Bhubaneswar, Prof. M S S Raju, Prof. Shukla from IGNOU Headquarters, officials of IGNOU Regional Centre, Bhubaneswar and Regional Evaluation Centre, Bhubaneswar, Vice Chancellors of State Universities, Principals, academic counsellors of IGNOU and students were also present in the occasion.

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) observed Constitution Day with a series of events emphasizing the enduring values of India’s Constitution. The celebrations were led by Professor Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU, who guided the university employees in a collective recitation of the Preamble of the Constitution of India. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Kanjilal urged everyone to embrace the essence of the Preamble and internalize its deeper significance, underscoring its role as a guiding force for the nation.

A special lecture was delivered by Padma Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, highlighting the foundational principles of the Constitution. He emphasized that there is no conflict between Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles of State Policy, which together constitute the soul of the Constitution.

Reflecting on the Constitution's legacy, Mr. Rai noted that while the Constitution established political democracy, its enduring relevance lies in building a concomitant social democracy. This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, a milestone in India’s democratic journey.

As the nation celebrates #ConstitutionDay (#SamvidhanDiwas), the 75-year evolution of the Constitution, through judicial interpretations and amendments, stands as a testament to its dynamism and adaptability.

IGNOU's commemoration underscores its commitment to fostering constitutional values and awareness among its academic community and the nation at large.

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), through its School of Law, is offering the Post Graduate Diploma in Criminal Justice (PGDCJ) in the Jan' 2025 admission session , this comprehensive programme is designed to cater to individuals seeking in-depth knowledge of the criminal justice system, especially professionals working in related fields.

The programme is conducted in the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode and is available in English. With a minimum duration of 1 year and a maximum of 3 years, it provides flexibility for working professionals to upskill at their own pace. The total fee for the programme is Rs. 10,800/-, making it an accessible option for learners.

Eligibility:

Graduates in any discipline can enroll in the PGDCJ programme. It is especially suitable for:

• Police officials and staff
• Advocates
• Doctors
• Army personnel
• Professionals from specialized agencies and NGOs
• Any graduate interested in understanding the criminal justice system and criminal laws

Objectives :

The PGDCJ programme aims to:

• Keep pace with emerging developments in the field of criminal justice
• Create well-informed citizens and professionals in the area of criminal justice
• Enhance the competencies of professionals already working in the criminal justice system

Career Opportunities:

Upon successful completion, learners can explore various career paths, including:

1. Jobs in Criminal Justice Administration within government organizations, international and national NGOs.
2. Specialization opportunities in criminal law, especially related to women, children, and vulnerable groups.

Programme Coordinator:

Dr. Mansi Sharma,Associate Professor, oversees the PGDCJ programme. Her expertise and guidance ensure a high-quality learning experience for all students.

For further details and enrolment, visit the IGNOU website or contact the School of Law.

IGNOU is offering the Diploma in Paralegal Practice (DIPP) in the Jan' 2025 admission session, a first-of-its-kind program offered by a Central University in India. Designed as an Open and Distance Learning (ODL) initiative, this professional postgraduate diploma is available in both English and Hindi, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Program Overview

The Diploma in Paralegal Practice aims to equip learners with essential paralegal skills, empowering them to effectively navigate and utilize the Indian legal system. Grounded in the constitutional principles of dignity, equality, and justice, this program addresses the socio-economic disparities by emphasizing the constitutional guarantee of legal aid.

Eligibility & Duration

• Minimum Qualification: 10+2 or its equivalent
• Duration: 1 to 3 years

Fee

• Fee: ₹8,400

Target Audience

This program is ideal for individuals who aspire to:

• Gain a functional understanding of the judicial and legal systems.
• Develop basic skills for accessing and utilizing legal systems effectively.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program can explore employment opportunities as paralegals, assisting lawyers, law firms, and NGOs in diverse areas such as:

• Legal research and drafting
• Interviewing clients
• Advocacy and public awareness initiatives

Key Objectives

The Diploma in Paralegal Practice aims to:

• Build a robust understanding of the legal and judicial systems and the laws affecting individuals daily.
• Provide foundational skills for accessing legal institutions and judicial processes.
• Empower individuals to engage in public advocacy.
• Create a cadre of "barefoot lawyers" to bridge the gap between the vulnerable population and the legal system.

Expert Guidance

The program is led by esteemed faculty, including Dr. Anand Gupta, who has been instrumental in designing a curriculum that merges academic rigor with practical insights.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can visit the official university website www.ignou.ac.in for further details and application procedures.

While inaugurating the Week Long to celebrations of the National Startup Day-2025, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU said that a number of IGNOU students are coming forward to set up their startups in different fields and further she said that they have great potential for contributing towards Viksit Bharat@2047.

On this occasion, she gave away the prizes to the winners of the Viksit Bharat @2047 competitions including idea competition, essay writing competition and poster competition-2024.

Dr. Arvind Ranade, Director, National Innovation Foundation, Dept. of Science and Technology, Govt. of India delivered a keynote address on Igniting the Young Minds Towards Viksit Bharat@2047 focusing on innovation and startup. He said that it is not difficult for our country to become a developed country where more that 65 percent of the population is under 35 years of age. He highlighted the importance of Innovation and Entrepreneurship in India's Growth Story.

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), in collaboration with its Regional Centres, is celebrating the National Startup Day-2025 by organizing various kinds of activities over a week during January 13-17, 2025. The programme aims to foster Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Startup Ecosystem development among Students, Researchers, and Faculty Members.

The winners of the Viksit Bharat@2047 Competitions-2024 also shared their experiences and insights on their Ideas, Posters and Essays. Three innovator and entrepreneurial students from IGNOU Regional Centre – Bhopal also shared their success stories.

Aimed at Unlocking Entrepreneurial Potential at IGNOU, Prof. Uma Kanjilal also launched a plan of action for a social media campaign on innovation and startups to be undertaken by the National Centre for Innovation in Distance Education (NCIDE).

During this week-long celebration, a three-Day Student Empowerment Programme for Startup Development will also be organized which will cover essential topics such as Design Thinking, Commercialization of Technology, Sales and Marketing Strategies and Workshops on Pitching for Startups, etc.

NCIDE at IGNOU is committed to nurturing the Innovation and Entrepreneurial Spirit among our Students and Faculty Members. "This Virtual Programme is a step towards creating a Vibrant Innovation and Startup Ecosystem that fosters Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship," said Dr. Oum Prakash Sharma, Director, NCIDE. Besides creating awareness about Entrepreneurship, this programme is expected to encourage students towards Startup so as to become self-reliant and contribute towards Viksit Bharat.

Dr. Bini Toms, Senior Regional Director, IGNOU Regional Centre shared her experience of organizing various innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives for the students of IGNOU Regional Centre Bhopal. Dr. Jyotsna Dikshit, Additional Director, NCIDE and Coordinator of the programme said that the beginning of the week long program aligns with the grand opening of Maha Kumbh Mela-2025 and informed that program envisions bringing together visionaries, entrepreneurs, mentors, and student participants, together to celebrate the spirit of Maha Kumbh. She also informed about the various events to be organized during the week like “An Online Quiz on Entrepreneurship related topics will also be organized for IGNOU Students and Alumni. Three successful Women Entrepreneurs will also share their stories of Startup to motivate other students”. The programme is open to all Students, Researchers, and Faculty Members of IGNOU, as well as the Alumni of IGNOU.

In an event held on 5th December 2024, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and India Meteorological Department (IMD), Ministry of Earth Sciences, GoI inaugurated the Automatic Weather Station (AWS) installed at IGNOU Headquarters at Maidangarhi Campus, New Delhi.

The Automatic Weather Station (AWS) automatically collects meteorological observations and sends them to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The meteorological parameters recorded include wind speed and direction, air temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, rainfall and maximum and minimum temperature. There is no AWS in this part of Delhi so this installation is expected to provide weather related information that could be useful for not only the researchers but also to the common public for getting weather related information.

Dr. Mrintunjay Mohapatra, Director General, IMD was the Chief Guest and IGNOU Vice Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal presided over the event. Dr. Rahul Saxena, Dr. Sanjiv Tyagi and Dr. Vivek Dhawan, Scientists from IMD were also present. Dr. Alok Choube, Registrar Admin, IGNOU, Directors of various Schools of studies, Centers, Heads of divisions, Senior Faculty members of all the disciplines of the School of Sciences and other officials and Dr. S.P. Rout, Deputy Registrar, Admin. were also present on the occasion. Officials from Regions Centres also joined the event online.

Chief Guest, Dr. Mritunjay Mahapatra, Director General, India Meteorological Department, MoES gave a historical account of the weather and climate services in India. He mentioned that since its founding in 1875, IMD has been offering weather and climatic services to the public and specialized agencies through a state-of-art network of weather observatories. He elaborated how such services are useful in numerous sectors such as agriculture, health, environment, etc. and highlighted achievements of India in the field.

Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU appreciated the move to collaborate with IMD and how the weather and climate information could be beneficial to many stakeholders and the local community. She also emphasized exploring possibilities of developing academic programmes on relevant themes.

Prof. Meenal Mishra, Director, School of Sciences outlined how the installation of Automatic Weather Station (AWS) at IGNOU Headquarters could be useful to IGNOU Faculty members, researchers and students from various Schools for disciplines such as geology, geoinformatics, geography, environmental sciences, health science, etc. in their project work and research involving meteorological and environmental data. Besides, it could also be useful for awareness purposes to the local community.

The IMD team also visited the Electronic Media Production Centre (EMPC) which was demonstrated by Dr. K.D. Prasad, Director, EMPC and Dr. Jatinder Jeet Kaur, Producer. Dr. Mahapatra expressed his interest in collaborating with EMPC.

On the occasion of the successful completion of 10 years of the "Beti Bachao Beti Padhao" scheme, launched in 2015 under the visionary leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister of India to combat female foeticide, promote girl child education, prohibit child marriage, and empower women, a remarkable tribute is being made by Mr. Surya Pratap Mishra, Uttar Pradesh Government State Youth Awardee (2022).

Under his "Global Campaign Tiranga," with sponsorship support from the State Bank of India and Finitra Company, Mr. Mishra is set to climb the highest peak of the Australian continent. This expedition aims to celebrate the grand success of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme, which has significantly contributed to women's empowerment and child protection across India.

The Australian Mountaineering Expedition was flagged off by Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Hon'ble Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, in the esteemed presence of Dr. Alok Chaube, Registrar, IGNOU; Prof. Nandini Sinha Kapur, Director, SOITS, IGNOU; and other dignitaries.

Mr. Mishra, an alumnus of IGNOU, will proudly hoist the national flag, the "Tiranga," at Australia's highest peak, symbolizing the promotion and safeguarding of human rights on a global platform. The Vice Chancellor commended Mr. Surya Pratap Mishra's efforts and congratulated him on representing IGNOU as a Youth Ambassador on the world stage.

This historic endeavor reflects a strong commitment to fostering awareness about the importance of women and children's rights while celebrating the transformative impact of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative.

IGNOU, India's premier distance learning institution, proudly announces the initiation of the admission process for the July, 2024 Session of the Post Graduate Diploma in Animal Welfare (PGDAW), marking a significant milestone in the realm of education and animal welfare advocacy. Introduced in July 2020, the PGDAW has now earned the distinction of being recognized as the ‘Largest Global Animal Welfare Education Programme,’ underscoring IGNOU’s commitment to fostering expertise in the field.

Designed to accommodate graduates from diverse academic backgrounds, the one-year curriculum delves into four core components: Animal Welfare Science and Ethics, Animal Welfare Issues, Animal Welfare Laws and Policies, and Animal Welfare Practices and Standards.

Animal welfare encompasses the well-being of all creatures under human care, with a primary focus on mitigating the challenges faced by farm animals, where the need is most acute. However, the scope extends to working, performing, companion, zoo, lab, and street animals, necessitating comprehensive attention. The PGDAW programme, comprising 85 meticulously crafted modules, addresses the scientific, ethical, legal, and practical dimensions of animal welfare across various domains.

Who Should Enroll?

• Individuals passionate about animal welfare
• Employees of Animal Welfare Organizations/NGOs/Gaushalas
• Faculty, Researchers, and Students in Universities and Veterinary Colleges
• Veterinarians and Para-veterinarians in Government and Military Services
• Members of Animal Welfare Boards and Committees
• Law Enforcement Professionals
• Civil Servants, Forest Service Officers and Wildlife Conservationists

PGDAW Curriculum Highlights:

Animal Welfare Science and Ethics: Explores the scientific understanding of animal welfare, animal behavior, ethical frameworks, and the role of veterinarians in promoting animal welfare.

Animal Welfare Issues:Examines welfare concerns across various animal categories, including farm animals, pets, working and performing animals, zoo and wild animals, and laboratory animals, along with welfare issues related to slaughter and disasters.

Animal Welfare Laws, Policies, and Organizations:Provides insights into pertinent legislation, enforcement mechanisms, and international conventions governing animal welfare, supplemented by discussions on organizational frameworks and ethical considerations.

Animal Welfare Practices, Economics, and Livelihood: Focuses on implementing welfare standards, sustainable practices, and measures for enhancing animal well-being in diverse settings, including agriculture, laboratories, pets, and entertainment industries.

Developed in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh, UK, the PGDAW programme seeks to accomplish dual objectives: imparting science-based education in animal welfare through distance learning and fostering stakeholder capacity to make informed decisions concerning animal welfare.

Endorsed by the Animal Welfare Board of India, the PGDAW programme stands as a beacon of excellence in the field of animal welfare education, poised to make a lasting impact on the welfare of animals nationwide.

The PGDAW programme, tailored to enhance the proficiency of animal welfare professionals across India and cater to the aspirations of graduates and post-graduates pursuing careers in animal welfare.

IGNOU is now accepting admissions for the January 2025 session. Prospective candidates can apply through the official portal: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/

For further inquiries, contact Programme Coordinator Prof. P.V.K. Sasidhar via email at pvksasidhar@ignou.ac.in or through WhatsApp at 9910050413.

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is offering the M.Sc. Analytical Chemistry (MSCANCHEM) programme in the January 2025 admission cycle. This programme has been on offer since Jan’2024. The advanced programme is tailored for aspiring learners and professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge and build careers in the dynamic field of Analytical Chemistry.

The programme provides a strong foundation of fundamental concepts of chemistry. It also deals with the basic principles and applications of various analytical techniques such as separation methods including chromatographic techniques, spectroscopic methods, electro analytical methods and other methods of analysis.

Programme Details

• Duration: Minimum 2 years, Maximum 4 years
• Structure: Semester-based, comprising 80 credits
• Medium of Instruction: English
• Age Bar: No age restriction
• Fee: ₹23,300/- per annum

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
• Graduates with a B.Sc. (Major/Honours) Degree in Chemistry from a recognised university.
• Graduates with a B.Sc. Degree (or equivalent) from a recognised university with Chemistry as one of three science subjects with equal weightage.
• Graduates with a B.Sc. Degree from an Open University with a minimum of 20 credits in Chemistry courses.

Career Opportunities

This programme is designed to equip learners with in-depth knowledge and skills, opening diverse career avenues, including:
• Higher education opportunities in Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry.
• Employment prospects in analytical/industrial laboratories.
• Upgradation of qualifications for enhanced career growth.
• Career pathways in research and teaching in the domain of Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry

Admissions
Interested candidates can apply for admission through the official IGNOU portal. For more details, visit the programme page at:
https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/index.php/site/programme-detail?id=e6099e3c919a35d730d025f72aca406555b5f766cea8d511e4dd224a5fbdaedc1807

Indira Gandhi National Open University has launched a Bachelors programme in Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (BAMSME) for the youth of the country. The programme will cater to the present needs of young entrepreneurs and will aid in developing their knowledge and skills to establish a business venture. The programme will also aid in increasing job opportunities among the youth in India. The School of Vocational Education and Training at IGNOU has taken the initiative to offer the programme in January 2025 session. The B.A Micro Small and Medium Enterprises programme is for 10+2 passouts. It comprises 120 credits.

The main objective of the BAMSME programme is to enhance knowledge, skill and competencies to start one’s own business venture; to study the market demand before initiating a business enterprise; to successfully and profitably operate one’s own enterprise; to inculcate managerial skills for setting up a new enterprise; to enhance interpersonal skills and leadership skills for empowerment of self and others and to provide Innovative and competency-based approach in the area of entrepreneurship. Successful entrepreneurs will share their experiences through innovative blended learning approaches.

Eligibility: 10+2 or its equivalent Medium: English Duration: 3 years (validity upto 6 years) Session: Offered in both January and July cycle Fee: Rs. 5100/- Per Year (Total Fee for 3 years = 15,300/-)

Main Objectives Studying Market demand before initiating a new venture Facilitating successful and profitable operation of a business enterprise Inculcating managerial skills and enhancing interpersonal and leadership skills for empowerment of self and others Providing Innovative and competency-based approach in the area of entrepreneurship

Admissions are Open for January 2025 Session
Programme Admissions Link: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/
Programme Details: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/index.php/site/programme-detail?id=7f27494bd686a17f2f2f821a5d77369dd545b4fa185ac741969d67580a06df201704

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers its Postgraduate Certificate in Cyber Law program, designed to cater to the dynamic needs of the knowledge society and the increasing demand for expertise in cyber laws, in the Jan '2025 Admission Cycle.

This program, offered in the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode, is ideal for professionals and graduates aiming to develop a comprehensive understanding of cyber law, cybercrime, and legal frameworks governing cyberspace.

Program Highlights

• Language of Instruction: English
• Eligibility: Open to graduates from any discipline.
• Duration: Minimum 6 months and maximum 2 years.
• Fees: Programme Fees: INR 8,400/- + Registration Fees of Rs 300/-

Target Audience

This program is designed for:

• Professionals in law, computer science, MNCs, and chartered accountancy.
• Individuals seeking careers in cyber law research, IT-related roles, or legal advisory positions in organizations and MNCs.

Program Objectives

Through four compulsory courses, learners will:

• Acquire critical knowledge and skills to understand, explore, and deal with challenges in cyber law.
• Learn to address frauds, scams, and cybercrime conducted via the Internet.
• Gain insight into social and intellectual property issues related to cyberspace.
• Study legal and policy frameworks adopted globally to regulate cyberspace.
• Explore the intersection of commerce and cyberspace.
• Understand the IT Act and legal frameworks governing Right to Privacy, Data Security, and Data Protection.

Dr. Gurmeet Kaur, the Program Coordinator, emphasizes the relevance of this course, stating, “This program addresses the fast-changing dynamics of the digital world. It equips professionals with the legal knowledge and skills required to navigate cyberspace confidently and competently.”

Enrollment Open Now

Aspiring professionals can now apply for this unique program and unlock career opportunities in the ever-growing field of cyber law.
For more information, visit https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/index.php/site/programme-detail?id=c8c79f8d22963e3fdb33788f72e26148978979e15120fc636155d7130c2a54381126

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has commenced the January 2025 Admission Cycle for programmes offered through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online Mode. Key Dates:

• Last Date for Fresh Admissions: 31st January 2025

How to Apply:

1. For ODL Programmes: Apply through the Online Admission Portal: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/
2. For Online Mode Programmes: Apply via: https://ignouiop.samarth.edu.in/

Steps for Fresh Applicants:

• Create a new registration on the respective portal.
• Submit all required details carefully.
• Select the desired programme.
• Read and follow the instructions while filling out the application form.

Programmes Offered: IGNOU offers a wide range of programmes, including:

• Master's Degrees
• Bachelor's Degrees
• PG Diploma & Diploma
• PG Certificate & Certificate Programmes
• Appreciation/Awareness Level Programmes

For complete programme details:

• ODL Mode: Programme Details - ODL
• Online Mode: Programme Details - Online

• Student Service Center: ssc@ignou.ac.in, 011-29572513, and 29572514
• Student Registration Division: csrc@ignou.ac.in, 011-29571301, 29571528 or any of the Regional Centers/Study Centers of the University

LAST DATE: For All Programmes: 31.01.2025

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