NTA announces tender for round-the-clock security of offices and examination materials

Hundreds of students continued their protests in Ranchi on Sunday, the fifth consecutive day, over alleged irregularities related to the conduct of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examination, as well as JSSC-CGL and other competitive tests. Protesters insist on an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the cancellation of the 14th JPSC preliminary test, and the need for reforms in the state's personnel selection agencies.

The protest was intensified by a candlelight procession, and demonstrators threatened to march to the Jharkhand Assembly if the state government did not meet their demands. Students are holding an indefinite sit-in strike at the Jai Pil Singh Munda stadium and marched to Albert Ekka Chowk on Sunday evening, chanting slogans against the ruling JMM coalition and demanding an impartial investigation into the alleged irregularities in the JPSC and JSSC exams.

They warned that if no response was received from the government in the coming days, they would proceed to the Jharkhand Assembly and hold a gherao. Protesters stated that they had not received any official proposals from officials to discuss their issues, which they believe demonstrates the indifference of the ruling JMM coalition towards thousands of students and youth in the state.

The demonstrations began on July 29 and have garnered support from students across Jharkhand, many of whom claim that years of preparation for entrance exams are being undermined by constant allegations of material leaks and malpractice.

At the protest site, students continued to chant slogans such as 'Order CBI to investigate JPSC,' 'Long Live Student Unity,' and 'Shame on Hemant Soren.' JPSC postgraduate Rahul Kumar Kranti noted that material leaks in JPSC have occurred repeatedly, and this time the candidates' OMR sheets were compromised. Although Chief Minister Hemant Soren ordered an investigation by the CID, protesters remained dissatisfied.

Kranti stated that previous investigations into JSSC material leaks had not led to any action, and he fears that the latest investigation might also be 'shelved' in a few months. He expressed a complete loss of confidence in the current CID investigation and demanded a CBI investigation into all JPSC and JSSC exams conducted over the last seven years, as well as the resignation of the Prime Minister on moral grounds.

Protesters demand the cancellation of the 14th JPSC preliminary test, held on April 19, and an independent investigation by central agencies, including the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate, into the alleged irregularities in the JPSC and JSSC exams. Furthermore, they are pushing for the inclusion of a fifth option, 'did not attempt to answer,' in the OMR sheets.

For many young activists, this protest has become a fight for justice and opportunities, rather than just a dispute over exams. Ankit Kumar from Giridih district emphasized that the careers of thousands of students are at risk due to corruption in both agencies, and most of them come from farming families who only desire fair opportunities based on merit.

Sneha, a student from a tribal community in Ranchi, stated that the protesters demand strict punishment for those involved in the alleged irregularities and the cancellation of the 14th JPSC exam. She appealed to CM Soren to accept their demands, as she has been preparing for competitive exams since 2023, and it is impossible to get a job without equal chances.

Archana Kumari from Palamu reported that the students will continue their campaign until the government responds to their demands and ensures accountability for the alleged irregularities. Despite the days of protests, the students declared their determination to continue the sit-in strike, receiving support from volunteers and supporters from various parts of the country. Shyam Bihari Gupta, a student from Balumatha in Latehar district, thanked those who supported the demonstration, noting that the state government is still in a state of 'sleep.'

In the town of Ladnun, situated amidst the arid plains of Rajasthan, approximately two hundred and thirty miles west of Delhi, there is a settlement that many travelers might pass by without noticing. Its narrow streets, whitewashed temples, and unhurried pace contrast sharply with the bustling metropolises of India.

However, this summer, the quiet town became an unexpected destination for those seeking one of the world's oldest philosophies. For over three centuries, Ladnun has served as a spiritual center for the Terapanth order of Jainism—a reformist sect known for its disciplined monastic tradition and emphasis on non-violence, self-restraint, and spiritual inquiry.

Last month, these traditions welcomed an unusual group of visitors: nearly three dozen students, scholars, and faculty members from eight countries who spent three weeks not just studying Jainism, but living it. This immersive summer program, which began on July 20th and concluded on Friday, was the result of a collaboration between the University of Florida International, Long Beach State University, the Jain Education and Research Foundation (JERF), the Vishwa Bharati Jain Institute, and South Californian philanthropist Dr. Jaswant Modi, whose support made this initiative possible.

Rather than viewing Jainism as an academic subject confined to classrooms and textbooks, the organizers designed a program that allowed participants to experience the philosophy through daily practice. Each morning began with meditation. Students attended lectures on Jain philosophy, Prakrit—the ancient language of many Jain scriptures—as well as on the fundamental principles of 'Ahimsa' (non-violence), 'Anekantavada' (multiplicity of viewpoints), and 'Aparigraha' (non-attachment to possessions).

Furthermore, they interacted with monks and nuns, observed their strict daily routines, and experienced a life based on simplicity, compassion, and mindfulness. Ann Valleli, a professor at the University of Ottawa and one of the leading scholars of Jainism in the Western world, noted: 'It was a very intense week, and it was a huge experience.' Describing the packed schedule, she added: 'Our classes start at 9:00 AM and run until 10 o'clock, 11 PM.'

The program is the result of months of planning by scholars in India and the United States. The University of Florida International, which hosts the first established Jain studies departments in the US, worked closely with Long Beach State University to develop the curriculum. The Jain Education and Research Foundation helped coordinate the academic and logistical aspects of this initiative, while the Vishwa Bharati Jain Institute opened its extensive campus and monastic community to international participants.

At the heart of this effort lies a broader mission: to present Jain philosophy to a global audience at a time when its central teachings on non-violence, environmental sustainability, restraint, and respect for diverse viewpoints have gained new relevance. A significant part of this vision was supported by Dr. Jaswant Modi, a physician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, whose long-standing support for Jain education and higher learning has helped create academic programs across the United States. Modi, who has contributed tens of millions of dollars to educational and religious causes in the United States, India, and worldwide, provided the primary financial backing for this year's summer school.

This physician-entrepreneur, based in La Canada, California, told The American Bazaar: 'I was born in India into the Jain faith, and these principles of Ahimsa, compassion, and respect for all living beings guided my entire life as a doctor.' He continued: 'After my medical career, I realized that philanthropy allows me to heal on a larger scale, not just one patient at a time. I contribute to Jain education because I believe that young students in America should be introduced to this ancient wisdom of tolerance, non-possessiveness, and multiplicity, which is currently undervalued.'

The program also coincided with an important date: this year marks the 300th anniversary of the founding of the Terapanth order, giving participants the opportunity to witness commemorative events while studying one of Jainism's most influential traditions. Founded in the 18th century by Acharya Bhikshu, the Terapanth order is characterized by centralized leadership and a disciplined monastic structure. Its monks and nuns actively travel to propagate Jain teachings rather than remaining in permanent monasteries.

Over the three weeks, students discovered that the learning extended far beyond formal lectures. Meals turned into lessons in mindful eating. Silence became a form of contemplation. Conversations with monks and nuns often continued long after scheduled sessions. Participants learned not only the philosophical foundations of Jainism but also how these principles shape daily decisions—from diet and consumption to conflict resolution and environmental responsibility.

For many students, such deep integration transformed abstract ideas into real-life experience. 'I was surrounded by scholars and was able to meet Sadhvis and Sadhus, and it was simply wonderful,' shared Carol Rodriguez, one of the participants holding a Ph.D. in Jain Studies from the University of Florida.

The Cuban scholar earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in Jain Studies at the University of Florida International in Miami, where she translated parts of the 'Lilavatisara,' a 13th-century work by the Jain monk Jinaratnasuri. The international composition of the group further enriched discussions, as participants brought diverse academic experiences and cultural perspectives, fostering conversations that reflected Jainism's emphasis on dialogue and multiple viewpoints, rather than absolute certainty.

Organizers hope that this program will serve as a model for future international collaborations in religious studies, philosophy, sustainable development, and peace education. Unlike traditional exchange programs, the Ladnun initiative invites participants to become temporary members of a living spiritual community, where learning occurs not only through formal classes but also through observation and daily practice.

When the summer school concludes on July 7th, participants will return to their universities and communities around the world, taking with them not only lecture notes and academic credits. They will leave with direct experience of a philosophy that has quietly existed for millennia, and memories of a small Rajasthani town where Jainism was not just studied, but lived, for three weeks.