In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

NEW DELHI: As India gears up for the Union Budget 2025-26 set to be unveiled on February 1, 2025, K12 Techno Services, Masai School, and Simplilearn express their hopes for transformative investments in education. Key insights highlight the need for enhanced funding for digital learning, improved industry-academia collaborations, and a focus on skill development to empower India's youth and align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Jai Decosta, CEO at K12 Techno Services

“As we look towards Union Budget 2025 - 26, we are hopeful that the government prioritizes investments to elevate the education sector, in line with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. In the pursuit of Viksit Bharat, the previous allocation of ₹1.48 lakh crore for FY24-25 was a step in the right direction towards education, employment and skilling. However, this union budget we expect a significant increase which is essential for meeting the growing demands of the education sector. It is imperative that the budget focuses on accelerating the digital transformation of education by increasing funding for digital learning initiatives and the integration of IT infrastructure.

This will further improve  the digital literacy and integrate technology effectively into classrooms. Additionally, it is essential that we support new technologies such as AI and robotics, which can personalize learning experiences. Lastly, with the growing demand for employability-focused skills, a substantial push towards vocational training and application-based learning within K-12 education is vital. With these measures, the budget has the potential to significantly equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge required to excel in a rapidly changing world."

Mr. Veerasundar V., Global CFO, Simplilearn

“Our expectations for the 2025-2026 budget are strengthening industry-academia collaborations to align courses with market needs and prioritizing hybrid learning to ensure accessibility, especially in rural areas. Investments in skilling programs for high-demand fields like AI and IoT are essential to prepare India’s workforce for the modern economy. The government should also support mid-career upskilling and promote female entrepreneurship through targeted training and financial support.

Additionally, it is crucial to address the gaps in upskilling for India’s Gen Z workforce. Incentivizing businesses to invest in Gen Z skilling, fostering global certifications, and promoting practical learning will ensure this generation is future-ready. As per latest reports, with Gen Z’s spending influence expected to surpass $2 trillion by 2035, affordable education loans and experiential learning are vital to unlocking their potential in the global economy.”

Mr. Prateek Shukla, Co-founder & CEO, Masai School

“The Union Budget 2025-26 presents a transformative opportunity to align education and skilling initiatives with the vision of NEP 2020. By increasing the allocation to 6% of GDP for education, the government can enable large-scale skilling programs and strengthen public-private partnerships that are essential for achieving ambitious Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) targets. Moreover, a focus on digital and inclusive learning through investments in high-speed internet, affordable devices, and robust digital infrastructure will ensure quality education reaches even the remotest parts of the country.

Encouraging outcome-based learning by offering tax incentives and funding for skill-based, job-oriented education models can help bridge the employability gap in India. Finally, incentivizing industry-academia collaborations, apprenticeships, and work-integrated learning programs will foster stronger ties between education and employment, ensuring that the workforce is equipped with future-ready skills. We believe these measures will not only address critical gaps but also empower India’s youth to thrive in an evolving global job market.”

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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