digital public infrastructure

A cybersecurity disclosure has placed infrastructure linked to JEE Advanced 2026 under scrutiny after researcher Rylen Anil alleged that a cloud storage configuration exposed thousands of candidate-related records and admit-card PDFs. IIT Roorkee, the organising institute, acknowledged the configuration issue and said corrective action was being taken. The development comes amid recent cybersecurity concerns involving CBSE's On-Screen Marking system and NTA's re-examination portal, highlighting growing attention on data security across India's examination ecosystem.

Microsoft's Jay Parikh emphasizes that the future of AI hinges on scalable deployment with trust and real-world impact, not just powerful models. He highlights India's strengths in developer talent, enterprise adoption, and digital infrastructure, positioning it as a key hub for global AI innovation and implementation.

CBSE said it successfully blocked a 3.8 million-packet denial-of-service (DoS) cyberattack targeting its verification and re-evaluation portal while maintaining uninterrupted services for students. Despite the attempted disruption, the portal processed over 56,000 applications for answer-book verification and re-evaluation. The Board said technical teams are enhancing performance and security. Partner banks, including SBI, Bank of Baroda, Indian Bank and Canara Bank, processed thousands of payment transactions as CBSE’s digital systems continue to face public scrutiny.

Noida to build two smart libraries, with e-study facilities for students

The National Testing Agency’s (NTA) re-examination portal has come under scrutiny after cybersecurity researchers alleged vulnerabilities that could expose administrative data and provide unauthorized access to portal functions. The claims, shared online, remain independently unverified, and NTA has yet to respond to queries seeking clarification. The allegations emerge amid heightened concerns over the security of examination-related digital platforms following the recent controversy surrounding CBSE’s On-Screen Marking (OSM) system.

In a significant policy shift, President Trump has mandated leading AI firms to voluntarily submit their advanced models for government cybersecurity testing. This 30-day pre-release screening aims to identify vulnerabilities and bolster national security, addressing growing concerns over powerful new AI systems. Tech giants like Google and OpenAI are already engaged in discussions with officials.

India has joined an elite group of nations gaining access to Anthropic's advanced AI cybersecurity model, Mythos, through Project Glasswing. This initiative aims to preempt cyber threats by identifying software vulnerabilities. India's inclusion, alongside key allies, highlights its growing significance in global AI development and its extensive digital infrastructure, offering mutual benefits in the race for cyber defense.

Europe is forging ahead with ambitious plans to break free from reliance on US and Chinese technology, particularly in critical sectors like AI and microchips. New regulations aim to bolster "tech sovereignty" by ensuring sensitive data remains within the EU and boosting domestic semiconductor production, safeguarding against foreign digital threats and supply chain disruptions.

India is leveraging Artificial Intelligence for significant progress towards Viksit Bharat 2047. AI drives economic growth, improves governance, and promotes social inclusion. Key elements for success include making data accessible to all, building strong organizational systems, and focusing on human skills. These steps will help India become a global AI leader and bridge development gaps.

Demands Grow For Re-Check Of Answer Sheets

CM pledges stronger welfare and social security for municipal employees

Principal Secretary PK Mishra cautioned financial systems against excessive speculation and market instability, emphasizing their connection to the real economy and citizens' lives. He highlighted India's digital public infrastructure, including the JAM trinity and UPI, as transformative forces for financial inclusion and credit access, particularly for underserved populations.

Union Education Minister Mr Dharmendra Pradhan held discussions with senior officials of SBI, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank and Indian Bank to overhaul the CBSE payment gateway system following recent technical issues faced by students. The meeting focused on strengthening payment protocols for post-examination services, including re-evaluation and answer sheet photocopies. The banks were asked to introduce faster grievance redressal, real-time monitoring and automatic refund systems to ensure secure and smooth digital transactions for students.

In a significant development, the Centre has transferred CBSE's chairman and secretary amidst the On-Screen Marking (OSM) controversy. A formal inquiry into the digital evaluation system's procurement has been ordered, with a committee tasked to submit its findings within a month. This action follows student complaints and allegations of tender irregularities.