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Indian Express
15-06-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
DPS Dwarka fee row continues, parents protest at Jantar Mantar & raise 5 demands
'Our children are being punished for the system's failure,' said a parent as hundreds gathered at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Saturday in protest, amid a row over the fee hike by the Delhi Public School (DPS) Dwarka and alleged discrimination against students whose parents refused to comply. Even as the Delhi High Court in May had ordered reinstatement of 102 students, directing submission of a 50% hiked fee, demonstrators on Saturday alleged that the school had not complied. However, sources in DPS Dwarka said that the students will be reinstated as per the court's order once the hiked fee is paid. 'Parents have been asked to clear dues as per the order,' an official said. But parents have alleged that the school continues to harass them. 'They are not complying with the complete court order, and not refunding the extra amount charged… they are asking more than what the High Court order allowed,' said a parent. Carrying placards and banners, the demonstrators laid out five key demands as the conflict continues: immediate reinstatement of all 32 affected students at DPS Dwarka without conditions; strict enforcement of DoE (Directorate of Education) and court directives; criminal proceedings against school management and security personnel for alleged child harassment; a time-bound review of the school's pending fee proposals or suspension of the responsible DoE officials; and audit reforms, including cancellation of licenses of any chartered accountants found complicit in financial irregularities. Highlighting the emotional and academic distress families have faced, protest groups from over 20 other private schools in the city joined in solidarity, warning that unchecked fee hikes and unfair practices at one institution could set a dangerous precedent across the city. In a statement on Saturday, the group of parents said that they have issued an appeal to the Supreme Court, the Delhi High Court, the GNCTD Directorate of Education, and the Delhi government to ensure that private schools operate within the law and that no child is denied access to education or subjected to harassment over fee disputes. The fee hike dispute in the Capital's schools has been a long-standing issue. Amid widespread demonstrations in the city, the Cabinet on June 10 approved the 'Delhi School Education (Transparency in Fixation and Regulation of Fees) Ordinance, 2025'. Under this, private schools must obtain approval before any fee increase, establish three independent panels at the state, district, and school levels to review proposals, and require automatic refunds of any excess fees already collected. This came in the backdrop of the DoE rejecting DPS Dwarka's proposed fee hike for the 2023–24 academic year and directing the school to refund any excess fees collected last May. Parents have alleged that, despite this order, the school again raised fees for the 2024–25 and 2025–26 sessions. DPS Dwarka, for its part, has maintained that it issued show-cause notices to parents as early as December, and that over Rs 1 lakh remained outstanding from around 130 students, resulting in a loss of over Rs 6 crore when some students completed Class XII, an official had earlier told The Indian Express. The school had also previously rejected the parents' claims as 'false and frivolous.' In response, parents of 102 students from the school approached the Delhi High Court, challenging both the unauthorised fee increases and the expulsions that followed. On May 16, the High Court orally indicated its inclination to stay the school's decision to expel 32 students for non-payment of unapproved fees, observing that DPS Dwarka had not followed Rule 35(4) of the Delhi School Education Rules, 1973, which requires prior notice and an opportunity to show cause. Further clarity came on May 30, when Justice Vikas Mahajan ordered DPS Dwarka to allow 102 affected students to continue attending classes provided their parents paid 50% of the increased portion of their 2024–25 fees, while still settling the regular fee in full. The court affirmed that under Section 17(3) of the Delhi School Education Act, the DoE holds the power to curb arbitrary or profiteering fee hikes. The next hearing is scheduled for August 28. On June 5, the HC – while slamming the school for deploying bouncers to stop students from attending classes – made it clear that if a school seeks to act under Rule 35 of the Delhi School Education Rules, 1973, it must first issue prior communication to the affected students or their guardians, specifying the date on which the action is proposed. The school must also provide a reasonable opportunity to show cause against such action, the order stated. Beyond the fee issue, on Saturday, parents pointed to an April DoE inspection report that documented alleged discriminatory practices at the school. According to the report, some students were confined to the library, barred from classrooms and the canteen, subjected to constant staff surveillance even during restroom visits, and in certain cases physically prevented from entering the premises by hired bouncers. Demonstrators described these measures as inhumane and a serious violation of child rights.
India Gazette
13-06-2025
- Science
- India Gazette
India's identity in space: Designer Manish Tripathi crafts special badge for AXIOM-4 astronaut Subhanshu Shukla
New Delhi [India], June 13 (ANI): As India celebrates a historic moment with Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla becoming part of the AXIOM-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), a unique piece of Indian pride will accompany him, a mission badge designed by fashion designer Manish Tripathi. This custom-designed badge is not just an accessory; it's a visual legacy of India's space heritage, ambitions, and cultural identity, set to orbit Earth on the spacesuit of a son of Indian soil. In an exclusive conversation with ANI, Manish Tripathi, who designed the symbolic Mission Badge, shared the deeply personal and patriotic journey of creating this mission emblem. He revealed that he and Subhanshu Shukla are alumni of the same school, a bond that brought them together for this once-in-a-lifetime creative collaboration. Talking to ANI Designer Manish Tripathi said, 'It's not just a badge, it's a stamp of India's presence in space. The design process took nearly eight months, full of conversations across time zones and countless iterations to reflect our heritage, space ambitions, and scientific legacy.' Inspired by a postal stamp, the badge carries multiple elements reflecting India's astronomical and cultural depth: * Gaganyaan Mission depiction as a symbol of India's independent spaceflight aspirations. * Aryabhata Satellite, celebrating its 50th year. * The Sun (Surya) honoured in Indian culture and crucial in space exploration. * Jantar Mantar, representing India's historical legacy in astronomy. * Mathematical symbols including zero, pioneered in India. * Infinity sign, showing the endless nature of exploration. * Moon illustrations, nodding to India's lunar achievements. * An astronaut helmet framing India's map at the chin, symbolizing the essence of 'Hanuman' a metaphor for strength and awakening and maps of other participating nations. Designer Manish Tripathi further added, 'This badge is designed to inspire the next generation. Through this one patch, I hope young minds understand our heritage and feel encouraged to carry the legacy forward. Through this badge, we're leaving India's fingerprint in space. It's more than design. It's an emotion, a statement, a story of who we are and where we're going.' For me, Subhanshu Shukla is a real superhero, 'Calm, composed, and deeply inspirational, he carries the hopes of a billion Indians.' Tripathi concluded. A distinguished Indian Air Force officer, Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla is part of the AXIOM-4 mission a private crewed spaceflight to the ISS organized by Houston based Axiom Space, in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX. He is among the few Indians to venture into space, marking a proud moment for India's defence and space community. (ANI)
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
DPS parents plan Jantar Mantar protest over fee hike
New Delhi: Parents of students at Delhi Public School (DPS), Dwarka, plan to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar this Saturday in response to what they describe as an unauthorised fee hike and "persistent harassment of students", despite repeated govt orders to the contrary. The parents are demanding justice and accountability for their children's rights, asserting that though the directorate of education and govt issued directives over the years, no effective measures were implemented. They allege that affected students continue to be denied access to their classrooms. Delhi High Court recently ruled that students whose names were removed from the school rolls due to non-payment of the increased fees must be allowed to attend classes, provided they pay 50% of the additional fees from the academic year 2024-25. This ruling came following a petition filed by over 100 parents. "We are willing to comply with the court's order. However, the school's calculation of the 50% amount is significantly inflated. For example, if the fee due is Rs 10,000, they are demanding Rs 14,000," claimed Maheish Mishra, one of the parents. "Because of this discrepancy, we were unable to make payments and are considering legal action for contempt of court." Mishra said, "The upcoming protest has gathered support from 30 to 40 other schools and various activists who believe that children should not be subjected to such treatment. The school even employed bouncers to prevent students from entering, which is intimidating for adults, let alone children." The conflict began on May 9 when parents were notified via email that their children were removed from the school's rolls due to unpaid fees, following a fee hike imposed by the school. According to the parents' petition, the school resorted to coercive tactics over recent years to extract unauthorised fees, including stationing bouncers at the school's gates. The petition also accused the school of violating the terms of its land allotment and repeatedly disregarding DoE directives. One parent, whose son is in Class XI, expressed his frustration, saying, "Despite assurances from the authorities, our son's name was struck off by the school." Another parent reiterated the demand for a genuine audit, stating, "If a private school seeks to increase fees citing financial losses, it must first undergo a comprehensive forensic audit and an independent audit by CAG, covering both the institution and the organisation under which it operates. " The school authorities refused to comment on the issue. Follow more information on Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad here . Get real-time live updates on rescue operations and check full list of passengers onboard AI 171 .
India.com
10-06-2025
- Science
- India.com
Discover Why Udaipur City Is A Stargazer's Dream Destination
The touristic town of Udaipur goes beyond its reputation for lakes and royal architecture because visitors from all walks of life choose it as their vacation destination. The city reserves a particular spot in the affections of both stargazers and astronomy lovers. Udaipur found its position in the Indian state of Rajasthan surrounded by Aravalli Hills that create perfect conditions for sky observation at night. Seven indispensable characteristics make Udaipur an ideal location for stargazers according to science. 1. Minimal Light Pollution Udaipur functions as a perfect location for stargazers because its darkness is preserved through low levels of light pollution. Udaipur strikes a perfect equilibrium between the growth of urban development projects and its untampered natural environment. Natural impediments consisting of lakes and surrounding hills prevent artificial light from spreading excessively to preserve Udaipur's open and vibrant night sky view. Instrument operation becomes easier for amateur astronomers together with experts because intense city lights do not interfere with their celestial observations. 2. Presence of the Jantar Mantar Observatory The Jantar Mantar observatory ranks among India's most famous astronomical facilities which exists in Udaipur. During the early 18th century Maharana Jai Singh II established the Jantar Mantar as an ancient observatory intended to precisely predict eclipses along with tracking celestial motions and time measurement. Jantar Mantar maintains its primary affiliation with Jaipur while the Udaipur section of this landmark demonstrates how astronomy connected to this region historically. People who visit these architectural structures can learn about classical methods of space observation alongside exploring the buildings. 3. The Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO) Astronomers from throughout the world visit Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO) which stands on an island inside Fateh Sagar Lake. The Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad founded USO in 1975 to perform advanced solar research on sunspots and flares and coronal mass ejections. Due to its waterfront location the observatory experiences reduced atmospheric impact that produces flawless Sun images. Most daily guests are unable to enter the observatory but its presence demonstrates the vital role Udaipur plays in present-day astronomy research. 4. Favorable Weather Conditions Stargazing opportunities exist throughout most months in Udaipur due to its pleasant climate conditions. The arid conditions of Rajasthan bring about fewer nighttime clouds than other Indian territories. The winter season from October to February brings perfect atmospheric clarity which allows viewers to observe celestial bodies including star patterns and planets and meteor showers that include Geminids and Perseids. His optimal viewing opportunities provide astronomers at every skill level with exceptional opportunities to discover universe wonders. 5. Proximity to the Aravalli Range Udaipur stands enclosed by the Aravalli Hills which form elevated positions for watching stars since these ranges represent one of Earth's oldest mountain chains. A number of elevated positions across the hills provide uninterrupted views of the night sky because buildings and tree cover do not obstruct these locations. People from Udaipur along with visitors use Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh) and Karni Mata Temple on Machla Magra Hill as their preferred spots to view the night sky because of their clear views. Elevated observatory points create optimal viewing conditions to fully immerse people who observe the stars. 6. Cultural Significance of Astronomy Astronomy history goes beyond scientific study in Rajasthan as its cultural origins remain significant throughout the territory but especially in Udaipur. Rajput rulers supported science and art in their time and organized the study of celestial bodies for religious needs and navigation and agriculture purposes. During present times Makar Sankranti together with Diwali continue to preserve their astronomical foundation. Udaipur residents combine a respectful attitude toward the cosmos with their cultural appreciation for astronomy to welcome astronomy lovers visiting the area. 7. Tourism Infrastructure Supporting Stargazing The tourist facilities in Udaipur serve both astronomy enthusiasts along with other types of visitors. The hotels and resorts situated by lakes provide balconies with telescope equipment that allows their guests to observe the stars during nighttime. The local tour operators guide their guests through night-sky expeditions which allow participants to learn about stellar patterns and celestial bodies under the direction of expert astronomy-focused guides. Udaipur's initiatives make resources available to visitors who need assistance in comprehending the celestial wonders seen above the city. Conclusion Udaipur stands brilliantly as a top destination for astronomers because of its limited polluting light levels together with perfect weather patterns and its historical astronomical traditions and its contemporary facilities including the Udaipur Solar Observatory. The town welcomes both beginners who use basic telescopes for sky viewing and experts who need complex data because it hosts opportunities for everyone. The reflective lakes of Udaipur with their starry skies convert every observer into a believer of its cosmic reputation as a lovers' haven. Take your telescopic equipment along with star charts to begin a star-gazing expedition that will stay in your memory forever throughout this Rajasthan mystic region.
Japan Forward
08-06-2025
- Sport
- Japan Forward
Jantar Mantar Wins the 75th Yasuda Kinen by a Comfortable Margin
With the victory at Tokyo Racecourse, the Palace Malice progeny became the first horse to win the NHK Mile Cup and the Yasuda Kinen. Yuga Kawada guides Jantar Mantar to victory in the 75th Yasuda Kinen at Tokyo Racecourse on June 8, 2025. (©SANKEI) Second favorite Jantar Mantar claimed his third G1 title in the 75th running of the Yasuda Kinen, his first outing of 2025, on Sunday, June 8 at Tokyo Racecourse. In 2023, the son of Palace Malice won all three starts in his 2-year-old season, including the Daily Hai Nisai Stakes (G2, 1,600 meters) and the Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes (G1, 1,600 meters) to become the season's Best Two-Year-Old Colt. With Sunday's win, Jantar Mantar became the first NHK Mile Cup winner (May 2024) to claim the prestigious mile Yasuda Kinen. Trainer Tomokazu Takano registered his ninth Japan Racing Association G1 title following his 2024 Queen Elizabeth II Cup with Stunning Rose. Jockey Yuga Kawada scored his 29th G1 victory. It was his fourth Yasuda Kinen title following previous wins aboard Maurice in 2015, Satono Aladdin in 2017 and Danon Kingly in 2021. Jantar Mantar closes in on a victory in the Yasuda Kinen. (©SANKEI) Jantar Mantar was quick out of the gate and raced in a prominent position around third behind Mad Cool (Ryusei Sakai's ride). Keeping the keen Palace Malice colt in control while choosing the better part of the track off the rails and asking his mount to stay patient entering the stretch, Kawada gave Jantar Mantar the green light after the 400-meter pole. The 4-year-old responded with good speed to take command just before the 100-meter marker. And he pulled away to win by a comfortable 1½-length margin over Gaia Force. ( Watch the race on the JRA's YouTube channel. ) Winning jockey Yuga Kawada (©SANKEI) "The colt broke well and was in a good position in third to start. But then [he] got a little overexcited as horses came from behind so I got a little worried," Kawada said after the race. He then said, "The colt just barely managed to contain himself as much as he could after that, and I was still in doubt as to how he would respond at the stretch. But, considering the circumstances, he really put in a good performance in the end and really exceeded my expectations as to how strong he is." The 75th running of the Yasuda Kinen at Tokyo Racecourse. (©SANKEI) Gaia Force (Seinosuke Yoshimura) raced in mid-division between rivals after a smooth break and edged forward approaching the final turn as Soul Rush (Suguru Hamanaka) passed him on the outside. After a brief struggle to find space to angle out early in the stretch, the 6-year-old son of Kitasan Black unleashed an impressive turn of foot that timed the second-fastest finish (tying with Soul Rush and Water Licht) soon after the furlong pole. Gaia Force overtook several rivals, including the race favorite, to outduel that foe by a neck for second while unable to match the winner. Race favorite Soul Rush was unhurried after a good break, sat in mid-field around 11th and made headway approaching the final corner. He was in good position for a clear run on the outside for the stretch run. But Hamanaka's ride was unable to pick up speed early enough while quickening in the final 100 meters. As a result, Soul Rush finished a neck's length behind the runner-up. Fourth favorite Brede Weg (Keita Tosaki) and 11th favorite Win Marvel (Kohei Matsuyama) placed fourth and fifth, respectively. The Takarazuka Kinen is the JRA's next G1 race on Sunday, June 15 at Hanshin Racecourse. Read the full report , including details on each of the Yasuda Kinen entrants, on JRA News. Author: JRA News
