SNIPPETS 06 APRIL 2026

National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT): Genesis: Autonomous organisation set up in 1961+ Ministry: Ministry of Education+ As per National Education Policy 2020, it is nodal agency to develop National Curriculum Frameworks (NCFs) for Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), School Education, and Adult Education+ Government declared NCERT as a deemed to be university.

Ad Valorem Duty: An ad valorem tariff is a customs duty calculated as a percentage of the total value of imported goods+ Unlike fixed-fee tariffs, which are based on weight or quantity, these tariffs fluctuate depending on the declared value of the product+ These tariffs are widely used to regulate trade, protect domestic industries, and generate government revenue+ The US announced a 100% ad valorem duty on the import of patented pharmaceuticals and associated ingredients.

Digital Human: Digital Humans are AI-powered virtual avatars that simulate human conversation using voice, facial expressions, and body language+ Use Cases: Client services, education, healthcare, and advisory roles+ China issues draft rules to regulate digital humans: Rules mandate clear labelling and banning services that could mislead children or fuel addiction