The Government of India, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, has implemented a range of policies to rehabilitate surrendered Naxals, offering monthly stipends, fixed deposits, and financial incentives for surrendering weapons. These measures, particularly active in states like Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh, have led to significant numbers of surrenders and successful reintegration into mainstream society.

This report highlights ten notable cases between 2016 and 2025 where surrendered Naxals were successfully rehabilitated into productive roles, including as Indian Police Service (IPS) officers, Members of Parliament, home guards, and cooks in public institutions.

Chhattisgarh has emerged as a leading state in rehabilitation efforts, recording over 985 Naxal surrenders in 2025 alone under its revised rehabilitation policy. These individuals have been absorbed into various sectors, reflecting the success of the program.

Maharashtra has reported 502 surrenders over the last decade, with rehabilitation programs facilitating employment, education, and reintegration into civilian life. Andhra Pradesh, which pioneered such programs as early as 1997, has seen more than 7,000 Naxals lay down arms, with at least 2,500 of them fully rehabilitated and employed through government-supported schemes.

These efforts underscore a broader national strategy that aims not only to weaken the insurgency but also to restore the lives of those who once took up arms, turning them into contributors to society.

In this report, we take a look at 10 surrendered naxals who are now employed in respectable positions.

#1 From Naxalite To IPS & Gallantry Awardee: Sanjay Potam’s Inspiring Journey

Former Naxalite commander Sanjay Potam, also known as Badru, was awarded the President’s Medal for Gallantry for the third time in January 2025. Once a DEC member managing the Sukma-Dantewada border for Naxals, Potam surrendered in 2013 and is now a senior IPS officer. Grateful for his transformation, he urges others to abandon violence, saying there’s no future in Naxal ideology. His wife, also a former Naxalite, now works as a government peon. Potam’s story reflects hope, renewal, and the potential for change in Bastar, a region long affected by insurgency and underdevelopment.

#2 From Maoist To DRG Inspector 

Madkam Mudraj, a former Maoist commander turned District Reserve Guard (DRG) inspector, met Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel during a public outreach in Konta. Mudraj shared how surrendering changed his life, saying he now carries a gun to protect, not harm. He spoke of his guilt during his Naxal days and how development in Bastar inspired his transformation. His wife, also an ex-Maoist, surrendered with him. Now, their children attend English-medium schools—once unimaginable. Thanking the CM, Madkam requested a handshake, which Baghel warmly accepted, praising his return to peace and service.

#3 From Maoist Commander to Security Guard: Dhananjay’s Redemption

Dhananjay alias Sudhir, once a top Maoist commander in Odisha’s Malkangiri district, surrendered in 2019 after witnessing the destruction caused by Naxals. He joined the group at 15, rising to lead the Gumma Area Committee with a ₹5 lakh bounty. Disillusioned by violence and mistreatment, he embraced peace. Now working as a private security guard, Dhananjay benefits from state rehabilitation schemes. Similar stories of transformation include former Naxals like Joymati Vanjan, Shankar Markade, and Bima Sodi, who left armed struggle behind for stable roles as constables, home guards, and cooks, demonstrating a path from violence to normalcy.

#4 From Forced Rebel To Police Constable: Joymati Vanjan’s Journey

Joymati Vanjan, once a Maoist cadre in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district, surrendered after being forced into Naxalism in the early 2000s. Involved in multiple attacks on security forces, she realized the futility of violence and laid down arms, later joining Chhattisgarh Police as a constable. Vanjan, along with other former Maoists like Shankar Markade, Bima Sodi, and Soni Markani, left the movement due to disillusionment, fear, and discrimination. Many now work in police, as home guards, cooks, or private security. Their stories reflect the success of rehabilitation efforts and the possibility of transformation from violence to peaceful livelihoods.

#5 Ex-Naxalite Kameshwar Baitha Becomes MP from Jail

Kameshwar Baitha, once a feared zonal commander of the outlawed Maoist Communist Centre of India (MCCI), transformed from insurgent to lawmaker. Representing Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), he won the 2009 Lok Sabha election from the Naxal-hit Palamu constituency while lodged in Sasaram Jail, facing 46 criminal charges. Baitha, accused of multiple attacks on police in Bihar and Jharkhand, was arrested in 2005. Despite his past, the Patna High Court permitted him to take oath as a Member of Parliament. His journey from Naxalism to politics symbolizes a dramatic personal and political shift in insurgency-affected regions.

#6 Ex-Maoist Commander Bima Sodi Now Protects Homes As A Guard In Odisha

Bima Sodi, once a CPI (Maoist) local commander leading a 12-member squad, surrendered after eight years in the insurgency. A native of Malkangiri, Odisha, Sodi cited disillusionment, discrimination, and the senseless violence of the movement as reasons for leaving. He now works as a home guard, earning ₹18,000 per month. Sodi highlighted that while top Maoist leaders hail from Andhra and Telangana, local tribal cadres like him bore the brunt of combat. His story reflects a broader trend of former Maoists renouncing violence to reintegrate into society and pursue peaceful, stable lives.

#7 From Rebel To Cook: Soni Markani’s Peaceful New Life

Soni Markani, a former CPI (Maoist) cadre from Sukma, Chhattisgarh, joined the insurgency in 2002 and surrendered in 2016. Disillusioned by violence and the lack of future in the Maoist movement, she chose peace and now works as a cook in Malkangiri, earning ₹8,500 a month. “The Maoists have no future. Violence is against humanity,” she said, adding, “At least I am happy now.” Her transformation mirrors that of other surrendered Maoists across Odisha and Chhattisgarh, many of whom now live normal lives under state rehabilitation schemes, rejecting the bloodshed they once participated in.

#8 From Rebel To Policeman: Shankar Markade’s Transformation

Shankar Markade, once a dreaded Naxalite with a ₹5 lakh bounty, has joined the Chhattisgarh Police after surrendering in 2023. A tribal from a poor background, Markade gave up his studies early and was involved in several violent attacks, including the destruction of a corporate plant. Now reintegrated into society, he expressed gratitude for his new role: “The SP gave me a job. I feel better as part of the mainstream.” His story, along with others like Joymati Vanjan and Sandhya, reflects a broader shift, as hundreds of former Maoists embrace peace under government rehabilitation efforts.

#9 From Naxalite To Defender of Peace: Jaymati Banjam’s New Life Fighting Naxalism

Jaymati Banjam, a 35-year-old ex-Naxalite with a ₹5 lakh bounty, is now a member of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) in Chhattisgarh. Disillusioned by the hypocrisy of Maoist leaders, she surrendered and joined the fight against Naxalism. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during a meeting with 30 former Naxals, praised such reintegration, asserting Naxalism will end by March 2026. With falling death tolls and rising surrenders, the government’s rehabilitation push is yielding results. Former cadres like Dhananjay and Bhimasodi now advocate peace, development, and urge remaining Naxals to abandon violence and return to mainstream life.

#10 Ex-Maoist Leader Jampanna Now Advocates Peaceful Dialogue

G. Narasimha Reddy, formerly Jampanna, a central committee member of the CPI (Maoist) for 17 years, surrendered in 2017 and now leads the Peace Dialogue Committee, urging the government to engage Maoists in non-violent talks. Reflecting on fellow Maoist leader Basavaraju, killed in an encounter, Jampanna shared insights into his simplicity, fitness, and dedication. A former NIT Warangal student, Basavaraju educated cadres and opposed over-reliance on technology. Once revolutionary comrades, Jampanna now champions peaceful conflict resolution, calling for an end to violence and highlighting the human side of insurgent lives once driven by ideology.

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Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said that the state government will soon sign an MoU with ‘Youth for Jobs’ organisation for employment of divyang (disabled) youth in Maharashtra. Initially, the organisation will assist the government in Vidarbha and North Maharashtra in creating employment and self-employment opportunities.

The state government and local district administrations will provide full support for this initiative. CM Fadnavis expressed confidence that local voluntary organisations will also step forward to contribute to the overall development of society. “The state government is committed to providing training and employment opportunities to disabled youth, ensuring their economic self-reliance. In this regard, registered disabled individuals in the state will be provided with a Unique Disability ID (UDID) over the next five years, facilitating their access to employment and self-employment opportunities. The government is effectively implementing schemes for the disabled, while voluntary organisations are also stepping forward for their development,” said the CM.

He further added, “The state government will soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ‘Youth for Jobs’ organisation. Initially, the organisation will assist the government in Vidarbha and North Maharashtra in creating employment and self-employment opportunities, with plans to expand this initiative across the state in the future. This will provide employment to disabled youth.”

He said that the government is always keen on ensuring that divyangs receive their rightful benefits and full access to announced schemes. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched several important schemes and decisions to realise the vision of a ‘Developed India.’ To generate more employment opportunities through skill-based education, the Skill Development Department has been established. In line with this, the state government is also making significant decisions for the welfare of the youth,” he added.

To ensure that all divyangs in the state benefit from government schemes, an updated database is being prepared. A 100 per cent registration drive is being conducted, and registered disabled individuals are being issued a UDID. The state government is making every effort to ensure that disabled individuals receive all the benefits of central and state government schemes, reads the government release. According to the government release, the ‘Youth for Jobs’ organisation, founded and chaired by Meera Shenoy, has successfully worked with the central government and the Gadchiroli district administration to enhance employment opportunities for divyang youth.

Training is provided based on the type of disability, and job fairs are organised to connect trained individuals with industry demands. Companies such as Lifestyle International, Aditya Birla Fashion, Reliance Trends, IIFL, Milan Coffee House, HPCL, BPCL, Sahyog Multi-State Credit Cooperative Society, local automobile dealers, and Disha Manpower & Security are among the private sector employers involved in this initiative. Additionally, self-employment opportunities are being created for those unable to work in jobs, integrating them into the mainstream society. This model will be implemented across all districts in Maharashtra to generate employment opportunities for the disabled, reads the government release.

–IANS

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On 5 February 2025, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) took action against 18 employees for participating in non-Hindu religious activities while also taking part in TTD festivals and rituals. This move was backed by a legal precedent set in November 2023 when the Andhra Pradesh High Court upheld Rule 3, affirming that trust boards have the authority to mandate service conditions, including the requirement that employees follow the Hindu religion.

In this article, we will look at seven court rulings in India regarding the employment of Hindu or non-Hindu individuals in temples.

#1 SC Rules Against Caste And Religious Barriers In Temple Appointments

On 16 December 2024, the Supreme Court heard the case Vinod Kumar M.P. and Ors. v. The Malabar Devaswom Board & Ors. [Special Leave to Appeal (C) No(s). 29188/2024], filed against The Malabar Devaswom Board. The Supreme Court dismissed the Special Leave Petition challenging the Kerala High Court’s decision to set aside the appointment of non-hereditary trustees of Sree Vairamcode Bhagavathi Devaswom by the Malabar Devaswom Board. The Bench, comprising Justices M.M. Sundresh and Aravind Kumar, clarified that the ruling would not affect the petitioners’ future eligibility. The Court emphasized that caste, race, religion, or language cannot be barriers to appointments and that non-hereditary trustee selections must follow strict fairness principles. The petition alleged political favoritism in trustee appointments, which the Court addressed by reinforcing merit-based selection criteria.

#2 Madras HC Upholds Hindu-Only Hiring Policy in Temple-Run College

On 26 November 2024, the Madras High Court dismissed a petition challenging an employment notification by Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Arts and Science College, a self-financing institution run by the Arulmigu Kapaleeswar Temple. The petitioner, A. Suhail, a Muslim, argued that restricting appointments to Hindus violated constitutional provisions on equal opportunity. However, Justice Vivek Kumar Singh ruled that the college, as a religious institution governed by the HR&CE Act, could require employees to be Hindu. The Court held that Article 16(5) permitted such restrictions and dismissed the petition for lacking merit.

#3 AP High Court Upholds Termination of Temple Employee for Religious Conversion

On 17 November 2024, the Andhra Pradesh High Court upheld the termination of an employee of Sri Bramarambha Mallikarjuna Swamy Varla Devasthanam after he converted to Christianity. Justice Harinath N ruled that the termination was valid under Article 16(5) of the Constitution and Rule 3 of the Andhra Pradesh Religious Institutions Service Rules, which require temple employees to be Hindu. The petitioner argued he had not converted, but the Court found evidence of his marriage in a church under Christian rites. The petition was dismissed, affirming the temple’s right to enforce religious requirements.

#4 SC Allows Govt Employees to Manage Temples in Absence of Trustees

On 5 October 2022, the Supreme Court upheld the Tamil Nadu government’s deputation of government employees to manage temples due to a lack of trustees. Justices D.Y. Chandrachud and Hima Kohli ruled that the move was in the temples’ best interest under the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959. Petitioner T.R. Ramesh argued that only trustees could appoint temple staff, but the Court found the deputation necessary to prevent administrative chaos. The Court ordered Tamil Nadu to provide data on temples without trustees and those managed by government officers.

#5 Hyderabad HC Stays Termination of Non-Hindu TTD Employees

On 22 February 2018, the Hyderabad High Court halted Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) from terminating 36 Muslim and Christian employees. Justices Ramesh Ranganathan and K. Vijaya Lakshmi questioned why authorities enforced Rule 9(6) after two decades, despite no mention during recruitment. The court criticized TTD’s sudden stance and stated it would review the constitutional validity of the rule. The bench emphasized that TTD runs institutions beyond temples and warned that executive officers responsible for hiring non-Hindus should also be held accountable.

#6 Madras HC Rules That Hindu Temples Can Choose Hindu-Owned Security Agencies

On 4 October 2011, the Madras High Court ruled that Hindu temples cannot be compelled to hire security agencies owned by non-Hindus. Justice K. Chandru dismissed a petition challenging a tender by Subhramaniya Swamy Temple, stating that temple management has the right to decide on sensitive matters like security. The court cited Section 10 of the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, which mandates temple servants must be Hindus. It rejected claims of discrimination, emphasizing that religious reforms must come from within the faith, not through judicial intervention.

#7 Karnataka HC: No Blanket Ban on Non-Hindus in Endowment Offices

On 15 December 2020, the Karnataka High Court dismissed petitions seeking to bar non-Hindus from working under the Commissioner for Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments. The Bench of Chief Justice Abhay Oka and Justice S. Vishwajith Shetty ruled that the 1997 Act does not prohibit non-Hindus from holding certain posts. It noted that roles like data entry or supervision are not directly linked to religious administration. The court also rejected objections to a Muslim officer’s name on a temple festival invite, stating that secular governance includes facilitating religious events across faiths.

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The post Who Can Work In A Hindu Temple? A Look At 7 Key Court Judgments appeared first on The Commune.

LinkedIn on Thursday rolled out a new artificial intelligence-(AI) based feature that can help both employment seekers find the right job and recruiters to get the apt talent.

The new LinkedIn feature will help job seekers understand how their skills and experience line up with open positions.

“With one click, job seekers get detailed insights into which qualifications they meet and which ones they might be missing so they can decide if they should apply,” LinkedIn said, noting that it will help them better focus their search on the opportunities where they’re more likely to hear back.

“Job match will be rolling out globally in English in the coming weeks with other languages coming soon,” said Rohan Rajiv, Product Lead on Jobseeker, Jobs Marketplace AI, Employer Brand – LinkedIn Talent Solutions.

The feature comes as the professional networking site’s new report noted how job seeking and recruiting have become challenging. The report showed that 82 per cent of professionals in India plan to look for a new job this year, yet more than half (55 per cent) said the job search has become harder in the last year.

It noted that 49 per cent of job seekers are applying to more jobs than ever but are hearing back less. On the other hand, more than 69 per cent of Indian HR professionals feel it has become more challenging to find qualified talent for a role.

About 27 per cent of HR professionals said they spend between 3-5 hours a day reviewing applications and 55 per cent say that less than half the job applications they receive meet all the criteria.

“The job market is tough, but it’s a reminder for Indians to take a more thoughtful approach to their job search. Building the right skills is key but so is keeping your LinkedIn profile updated and focusing on roles that truly match with your skills,” said Nirajita Banerjee, Career Expert and Sr. Managing Editor for LinkedIn India.

“Being more strategic and deliberate can reward you with new opportunities and meaningful career growth even in a challenging job market,” she added. Further, LinkedIn noted that the new feature will help premium subscribers see a categorical rating that indicates if they are a high, medium, or low match. They can also know if they have a higher chance of hearing back from the hirer as a Top Applicant.

“Premium subscribers will have the option to tap LinkedIn’s AI-powered tools to improve their cover letter and resume,” the company said. As professionals look to break through the job search in 2025, LinkedIn can help job seekers stand out, find the right job, and gain insights to explore their job potential.

–IANS

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On 30 December 2024, the Taliban imposed a sweeping ban prohibiting all national and foreign NGOs from employing women in Afghanistan, warning that noncompliance could result in the revocation of operating licenses. This report highlights ten compelling cases from 2024 that illustrate the Taliban’s ongoing crackdown on women employees, particularly in the healthcare and education sectors. These cases underscore a troubling pattern of erasing women’s rights and dismantling opportunities for their professional growth.

#1 Taliban Bans NGOs From Employing Women In Afghanistan

In December 2024, the Taliban announced a ban on national and foreign NGOs employing women in Afghanistan, warning that noncompliance would lead to license revocation. This came two years after a similar directive citing non-adherence to their interpretation of Islamic dress codes. Despite UN criticism of “gender apartheid” and reports of increasing obstruction of female humanitarian workers, the Taliban denies interference, claiming 9,000 work permits have been issued to women and justifying restrictions as necessary for upholding Afghan laws and norms.

#2 Taliban Enforces Ban On Windows Overlooking Women’s Spaces

In December 2024, the Taliban banned residential windows that overlooked areas where women worked, such as kitchens and courtyards, claiming such views could provoke “obscene acts.” Existing windows in these areas were asked to be blocked, and authorities were tasked with enforcing the rule, encouraging residents to build walls to obstruct views. This is part of the Taliban’s broader crackdown on women’s rights since taking power in 2021, which includes bans on girls’ education, female employment, and public presence.

#3 Taliban Bans Private Education for Girls in Herat

In December 2024, the Taliban banned girls above sixth grade from attending private education centers in Herat, further tightening restrictions on female education. This directive followed previous bans on secondary and university education, leaving girls with no learning opportunities. Many girls turned to language and art programs as alternatives, but these too are now prohibited. The Taliban’s education director confirmed the ban, citing orders from their supreme leader.

#4 Taliban Prohibited Women From Singing or Reciting Poetry Publicly

In August 2024, the Taliban enacted a law banning women from singing or reciting poetry in public as part of its strict enforcement of Islamic law. The regulation also urged women to conceal their voices and bodies when outside their homes. Additionally, some local radio and TV stations have ceased airing female voices, further limiting women’s participation in public life.

#5 Ban On Shab-e-Yalda Celebrations

Since seizing power in Afghanistan, the Taliban implemented broad bans on cultural and traditional activities. Among these, they prohibited the celebration of Yalda Night, labeling it “forbidden” under their interpretation of Islamic law, which they claim does not permit such festivities.

Despite the Taliban banning Shab-e Yalda celebrations as “sinful,” Afghan women, in December 2024, marked the occasion as a symbol of resistance against oppression. Women’s movements and cultural groups organized private events, lighting candles and setting up traditional Yalda tables to honor the triumph of light over darkness. Protesters highlighted the Taliban’s suppression of cultural traditions and women’s rights, emphasizing Shab-e Yalda as a beacon of hope.

#6 Taliban Orders Female University Staff to Step Down

In December 2024, the Taliban mandated that female administrative staff at universities in Afghanistan step down within three days and nominate male replacements or face dismissal. The directive, issued on 8 December 2024 led to emotional scenes, particularly at Herat University, where female staff were seen crying after being pressured into signing documents agreeing to their removal.

#7 Taliban Bans Women from Medical Institutes, Closing Education Pathways

Earlier in December 2024, the Taliban issued a directive banning women from attending medical and semi-professional institutes, effectively closing one of the last options for higher education available to Afghan women. The ban follows the closure of universities to women in December 2022 and further restricts their access to professional training in healthcare. Afghanistan already faces a critical shortage of female medical professionals, and this policy is expected to worsen the country’s healthcare crisis.

#8 Taliban Shuts Down Women-Only Cafes In Herat

In November 2024, the Taliban began shutting down women-only cafes in Herat, Western Afghanistan, closing at least three such businesses in the past week. These cafes, which provided Afghan women with rare spaces to socialize, work, and regain financial independence, were shut down by the Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice. The closures are part of the Taliban’s broader campaign to erase women from public life, following over 100 decrees that restrict women’s education, employment, and freedoms.

#9 Women in Public Offices Face Increased Restrictions Under Taliban Rule

In November 2024, women employed in public offices in Kabul began facing growing restrictions, including strict dress codes and lower salaries than their male counterparts. Many women who once worked under the former government lost their jobs entirely, while those still employed reported challenging conditions. In some sectors like security, education, and healthcare, women remained employed but had to deal with increasing pressure and economic hardship.

#10 Taliban Suspends Salaries of Female Teachers Amid Economic Strain

In July 2024, the Taliban suspended the salaries of female teachers, following a previous decree that capped their pay at 5,000 Afghanis ($70). This reduction, coupled with the salary suspension, left many teachers facing severe financial hardship. Teachers expressed concerns that this pay cut, which is insufficient to cover basic expenses such as transportation, rent, and family needs, would force them to leave their jobs.

#11 Herat Educational Centers Enforce Hijab Requirement for Girls

In July 2024, educational and health centers in Herat began enforcing a strict dress code, prohibiting girls from entering without a “prayer shawl” or a “chadur namaz“. Notices were posted at the entrances, warning girls that they would be denied entry unless they complied with the hijab requirement. Some students expressed frustration, seeing it as an infringement on personal choice.

#12 Taliban Leader Defends Public Floggings and Stonings of Women

In May 2024, Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada defended the public flogging and stoning of women, including for adultery, in a recent audio message. He asserted that these punishments, which conflict with Western democratic values, are carried out under Sharia law, which he claims to represent. The Taliban’s judicial system has already implemented such punishments, including stoning, and Akhundzada’s statement suggests that this practice will continue.

#13 Taliban Deploys Dress Code Covering Face For Media Workers

In February 2024, the Taliban threatened to ban women media workers in Kabul who do not comply with a strict “modest dress code,” which includes wearing face veils that cover most of the face, leaving only the eyes visible. The Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice suggested that Afghan women appearing on media should adhere to this guideline. Failure to comply could lead to a ban on women working in the media.  

#14 Taliban Bans Educational Programs for Girls Above Grade Six on Local Media

In August 2024, the Taliban imposed a ban on educational programs for girls above grade six that were broadcast on local radio and television stations in Khost province, following orders from the Ministry of Education. This decision, which likely originated from Kabul, further restricted girls’ education after the Taliban suspended it in schools. Local media outlets, that relied on these educational broadcasts, faced financial challenges. The ban also prevents media from offering online courses and educational resources, significantly impacting both the education of girls and the media’s income sources.

#15 Taliban Separates Healthcare Hours For Men And Women In Badakhshan

In October 2024, in Badakhshan, the Taliban implemented a policy requiring men and women to visit the central hospital at different times. Women could only access healthcare during designated morning and afternoon hours, while men had to visit at separate times. The decision, enforced under pressure from local Taliban authorities, created difficulties for patients, especially those unable to attend during specific hours due to work or living conditions.

#16 Taliban Restricts Education for Girls Above Age 10 In Kandahar

In February 2024, in Kandahar, the Taliban imposed a directive preventing girls aged 10 and older from attending classes below the sixth grade. School principals were instructed to enforce this policy, which is part of the broader restrictions on girls’ education since the Taliban’s return to power. In addition to the school closures beyond the sixth grade, students in grades four to six are required to wear face coverings while commuting. This policy, which followed previous education bans for taller girls in various provinces, further limited educational opportunities for young girls in Afghanistan.

#17 Taliban Shuts Schools And Art Workshop In Kabul Over Girls’ Attendance

In March 2024, in Kabul, the Taliban closed several schools and an art workshop due to the enrollment of girls above the sixth grade. The “Fiqran Bartar” art workshop and three other educational centers in the Chahar Qala area were sealed by the Taliban’s Prohibition of Evil agents. They cited the reason as the presence of girls beyond the sixth grade.

#18 Taliban Closes Education Classes In Bamyan

In November 2024, the Taliban shut down all local education classes in Bamyan province, which UNICEF operated in collaboration with Watan Social and Technical Services (WSTA). These classes, located in remote areas, had provided education to hundreds of girls and boys previously unable to attend school. The closure deprived thousands of children of their education. Local families and teachers expressed concern, with some calling on UNICEF to pressure the Taliban to reopen the classes. The closure follows similar actions in southern provinces, further limiting access to education across Afghanistan.

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The post 16 Key Cases Of Taliban Crackdown On Women Rights And Education In 2024 appeared first on The Commune.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment on Wednesday, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) added 13.41 lakh members net during October, reflecting increased employment and higher awareness of employee benefits among workers.

The EPFO enrolled around 7.50 lakh new members in October out of which a significant 58.49 per cent were in the young 18-25 age group. The net number for this dominant age group is 5.43 lakhs.

This is in consonance with the earlier trend which indicates that most individuals joining the organized workforce are youth, primarily first-time job seekers, indicating the increasing employment opportunities in the economy. The payroll data highlights that approximately 12.90 lakh members exited and subsequently rejoined EPFO.

This figure depicts year-over-year growth of 16.23 per cent, compared to October 2023. These members switched their jobs and re-joined the establishments covered under the ambit of EPFO and opted to transfer their accumulations instead of applying for final settlement thus, safeguarding long-term financial well-being and extending their social security protection.

A gender-wise analysis of the payroll data reveals that out of the new members added during the month, around 2.09 lakhs are new female members. This figure exhibits year-on-year growth of 2.12 per cent, compared to October 2023. Also, the net female member addition during the month stood at around 2.79 lakh.

The increase in female member additions is indicative of a broader shift towards a more inclusive and diverse workforce, the official statement said. A state-wise analysis of payroll data shows that net member addition in the top five states/ UTs constitutes around 61.32 per cent of net member addition, adding a total of around 8.22 lakh net members during the month. Maharashtra is the leading state with the addition of 22.18 per cent of net members during the month.

The states/UTs of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, and Gujarat individually added more than 5 per cent of the total net members during the month. A month-on-month comparison of industry-wise data displays significant growth in the members working in establishments engaged in industries such as road motor transport, electronic media companies, banks other than nationalised banks etc.

The payroll data is provisional since data generation is a continuous exercise and updating employees’ records is a continuous process, the statement added.

–IANS

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The Madras High Court has dismissed a writ petition challenging a recruitment notification that restricted employment at institutions run by Hindu temples to individuals professing the Hindu religion. Justice Vivek Kumar Singh ruled that the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Act mandates such appointments and deemed the regulation constitutionally valid under specific provisions.

The case arose from a 2021 petition filed by A. Suhail, a Muslim candidate, who applied for the position of Office Assistant at Arulmighu Kapaleeswarar Arts and Science College in Chennai. Suhail argued that the Hindu-only recruitment policy violated his constitutional right to equal opportunity in employment under Articles 16(1) and 16(2). However, the court rejected his plea, emphasizing that the institution, being self-financed and operating without government aid, does not qualify as a “State” under the Constitution to ensure non-discrimination in public employment.

Justice Singh clarified that the college, established using temple funds and sustaining its operations through student fees, falls under Article 16(5) of the Constitution. This provision permits religiously motivated appointments in denominational institutions. Additionally, Section 10 of the HR&CE Act explicitly requires officers and employees appointed for temple-affiliated purposes to be practising Hindus.

The court further declared that appointees who cease to profess Hinduism would be deemed to have resigned from their positions. Justice Singh also dismissed the petitioner’s argument that the college should be categorized solely as an educational institution rather than a religious establishment. He ruled that the college’s establishment with temple funds renders it subject to the HR&CE Act, which governs religiously affiliated institutions.

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Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje cited statistics in the Lok Sabha on Monday to show that youth unemployment rates in India were lower than global levels.

The minister cited a report by the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Institute for Human Development (IHD) which states that the worldwide youth unemployment rate was 15.6 per cent in 2021. Further, as per World Employment and Social Outlook Trends, 2024 by ILO, globally, in 2023, the youth unemployment rate was 13.3 per cent.

On the other hand, the latest annual Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)shows that unemployment rate for youth of age 15-29 years in India in the year 2023-24 was 10.2 per cent which is lower than global levels.

Further, the Worker Population Ratio (WPR) for youth indicating employment has increased from 31.4 per cent in 2017-18 to 41.7 per cent in 2023-24, the minister pointed out in a written reply in the Lower House.

The unemployment indicator in India at present is the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) since 2017-18. She also cited Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) Payroll Data which gives an idea of the level of employment in the formal sector.

More than 1.3 crore net subscribers joined EPFO during 2023-24. Moreover, during September 2017 to August, 2024, more than 7.03 crore net subscribers have joined EPFO, indicating an increase in formalisation of employment, the minister added. “All the labour force indicators are providing evidence of an improved employment scenario in the country,” Shobha Karandlaje said.

In answer to another question, the minister stated that as per the latest annual PLFS reports, the estimated Worker Population Ratio (WPR) and Unemployment Rate (UR) for persons of age 15 years and above indicates that employment has shown an increasing trend while the unemployment rate reflects a decreasing trend over the years.

The KLEMS (K: Capital, L: Labour, E: Energy, M: Materials and S: Services) database published by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) provides employment estimates at an all-India level. As per the latest data of the database, provisional estimates for 2023-24, employment in the country increased to 64.33 crore in year 2023-24 compared to 47.15 crore in 2014-15. Total increase in employment during 2014-15 to 2023-24 is about 17 crore. She further states that to provide various employment related services to the youth of the country on a single platform, the government of India has launched National Career Service (NCS) portal which includes services like job search & matching, career counselling, vocational guidance, information on skill development courses, internships etc., through the portal.

During the year 2024-25 (as on 15.11.2024), 1.12 crore vacancies were posted on NCS portal and more than 3.53 crore number of vacancies mobilised on the portal since its launch in 2015. Further, the Central government has also launched MY Bharat platform which provides myriad opportunities for youth engagement through various organisations onboarded on the portal with a view to involve them in meaningful activities.

The MY Bharat portal is envisioned as a pivotal, technology-driven facilitator for youth development and youth-led development, with the overarching goal of providing equitable opportunities to empower the youth in realizing their aspirations.

She said that employment generation coupled with improving employability is the priority of the government. The various Ministries are implementing different employment generation schemes like Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY), Rural Self Employment and Training Institutes (RSETIs), Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM), Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY). The government has also announced the Prime Minister’s package of 5 schemes and initiatives to facilitate employment, skilling and other opportunities for 4.1 crore youth over a 5-year period with a central outlay of Rs 2 lakh crore in the Budget 2024-25, Karandlaje added.

–IANS

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Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme, launched on October 3, 2024, is a central government initiative to provide internship opportunities to youth in the country’s top 500 companies. This scheme targets offering one crore internships to youth over five years.

The selected youth under the scheme will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000. In addition, the applicants are entitled to one-time financial assistance of Rs 6,000.

The scheme will be implemented through an online portal (www.pminternship.mca.gov.in) developed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. All eligible candidates must register on the portal and apply for an internship.

To participate in the Prime Minister Internship Scheme, a youth must complete the application form online.

How to register for the PM Internship scheme:

Step 1: The candidate must first visit the portal by typing (pminternship.mca.gov.in) in an internet browser.

Step 1: The candidate must click the ‘Register Now’ tab and provide his/her mobile number in the ‘Register Youth’ pop-up.

Step 3: He/She will receive an OTP on the given number. A password will be generated when you enter it.

Step 4: Candidate must ‘update password’ after first login.

Step 5: The next step is creating the candidate’s user profile.

Step 6: It must be verified by adding KYC details through Aadhar authentication or Digilocker.

Step 7: Enter your personal details, residential details and bank details where you would want to receive internship money via DBT

How to apply for the PM Internship Scheme 2024:

Step 1: Visit the official portal — www.pminternship.mca.gov.in

Step 2: Complete the registration process by sharing personal and educational details.

Step 3: The portal will automatically generate candidates’ resumes, based on the information shared during registration.

Step 4: You can use the portal’s browsing facility to view internship opportunities based on your preferences (sector, location, role, etc).

Step 5: Based on your qualifications and preferences, apply for at least 5 internship opportunities that interest you.

Step 6: Candidates will be shortlisted based on their applications and the requirements of partner companies.

Step 7: Companies will review the shortlisted candidates and send offers based on their selection criteria.

Step 8: After receiving the internship offer, you can nod via the portal.

–IANS

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The post PM Internship Scheme 2024 For Youth: How To Get Yourself Registered And How To Apply For It appeared first on The Commune.

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) on Sunday said it added 18.53 lakh net members in the month of August, a 9.07 per cent year-on-year growth compared to August 2023.

The EPFO enrolled around 9.30 lakh new members in August, representing an increase of 0.48 per cent in the new members from the previous year in August 2023.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment said this signifies increased employment opportunities and heightened awareness of employee benefits, bolstered by the EPFO’s effective outreach initiatives.

The surge in new memberships can be attributed to growing employment opportunities, increased awareness of employee benefits, and the EPFO’s successful outreach programmes.

According to the ministry, a noticeable aspect of the data is the dominance of the 18-25 age group, which constituted a significant 59.26 percent of the total new members added in August 2024.

In addition, the net payroll data for the age group 18-25 for August 2024 is 8.06 lakh. “This is in consonance with the earlier trend which indicates that most individuals joining the organised workforce are youth, primarily first-time job seekers,” said the ministry.

Approximately 13.54 lakh members exited and rejoined the EPFO – a YoY growth of 14.03 per cent compared to August 2023.

The EPFO added around 2.53 lakh new female members, a year-over-year growth of 3.75 percent. The net female member addition during the month stood at around 3.79 lakh.

The surge in female member additions is indicative of a broader shift towards a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Top five states/UTs constitute around 59.17 per cent of net member addition, adding a total around 10.97 lakh net members during the month.

Of all the states, Maharashtra led by adding 20.59 per cent of net members. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Delhi, Gujarat, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh individually added more than 5 per cent of the total net members during the month.

–IANS

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