Asia’s First UNESCO Chair on Gender Inclusion Context: India has established Asia’s first UNESCO Chair on Gender Inclusion and Skill Development About the Initiative The UNESCO Chair is a global academic initiative focused on reducing gender disparities in technical and vocational education Launched on April 24, 2026 in Pune Organizations Involved Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship UNESCO Symbiosis Skills and Professional University Objective Aims to promote gender equality in skill development Seeks to ensure greater participation of women in emerging economic sectors Focuses on inclusive growth and social transformation Key Features Training women in advanced fields such as semiconductors, AI, robotics, defence, and advanced manufacturing. Linked with international bodies like International Labour Organization, UNESCO-UNEVOC, and UNESCO Global Skills Academy. Targets women from underprivileged backgrounds with industry-relevant skills. Involves 40+ industry experts and policymakers to align training with job market needs. Backed by both the Skill Development and Education ministries. Significance Positions India as a leader in gender-inclusive skill development in Asia Promotes women’s empowerment and financial independence Prepares women for future-ready, high-value employment opportunities Virli Khandar Megalithic Site Context: An ongoing excavation at a megalithic site in Virli Khandar has revealed distinctive burial architecture, rare artefacts and unusual pottery arrangements, offering fresh insights into ancient funerary practices in Vidarbha. The site, located in Pauni tehsil of Bhandara district, in Maharashtra was first reported in 2008. Unique Burial Pattern Features stone circles with menhirs inside (composite megalithic structure) Distinct from nearby sites like Pimpalgaon Nipani and Tirota Kheri, which mainly have dolmen burials Artifacts Discovered Copper items (e.g., necklace) Iron tools: axes, chisels, ladles, arrowheads Semi-precious beads, including etched carnelian Gold earring recovered Pottery Findings Unique pottery cluster not previously reported in the Vidarbha region Around 50 pots arranged systematically in one burial Larger pots covered with inverted bowls…
