In an interview with ET’s Sreeradha Basu, Jane Baker, vice-president, Workforce Skills at learning company Pearson said India stands out as a leader in the global upskilling market due to its sheer volume of learners seeking to enhance their skills and through the active support of government initiatives like Skill India.

Professionals worldwide are upskilling at a rapid pace, and India is at the forefront of this movement, fuelled by its young and ambitious population, said Jane Baker, vice-president, Workforce Skills at learning company Pearson. In an interview to ET’s Sreeradha Basu, she said India stands out as a leader in the global upskilling market due to its sheer volume of learners seeking to enhance their skills and through the active support of government initiatives like Skill India. Edited excerpts:

What is the kind of uptick you have seen in professionals wanting to upskill themselves? How do you compare India -- with its huge young demographic – with other countries in this respect?

We recognise the global skills challenges, as reported by the World Economic Forum, impacting various countries, including India. This trend is attributed in part to factors like the pandemic and advancements in digitisation. As per the second edition of our Pearson Skills Outlook Report, around four in five Indian workers are interested in short courses or language programmes, and certifications from professional organisations (34%) and from platforms (34%) are the top two types of education they need to advance their careers.

However, there is a growing concern: the reported disconnect between traditional education and the current job market demands. Many employers report a mismatch between graduates and qualifications and the specific skills needed in their workplaces. This highlights the critical need for upskilling initiatives in India.

We have collaborated with industry, academia and governments to identify skill gaps and design globally recognised curricula and qualifications. This approach is also being implemented in India. In the same Pearson Skills Outlook Report, technical skills like data science, cloud computing, AI and cybersecurity are demanded widely in India, alongside soft skills like communication and critical thinking.

What are your growth plans in India? How do you see yourself scaling up in this market?

In India, we are looking at expanding our presence and impact in three key areas – higher education, workforce skills and English language learning. Our workforce skills business focuses on collaborating with government institutions, educational institutions and corporations.

We are actively participating in the skilling initiatives, offering skill development courses in emerging sectors, language proficiency programmes, and communication skills training and supporting the goals of the NEP (National Education Policy) 2020, which emphasises affordable, equitable and universal access to quality education.

Globally, we are actively engaged with employers, corporate L&D (learning and development) leaders (such as Amazon Web Services, BMW Group and Schneider Electric) and industry associations. These collaborations enable us to understand evolving sector needs and tailor qualifications, accordingly, seeking feedback on existing programmes and identifying emerging skill gaps.

Do you plan to launch more programmes in India? Which are the most popular among the existing ones?

We continuously assess emerging trends and skill demands to shape our programmes globally, including in India. Our approach involves collaborating with industry advisory boards, comprised of experts, to refine curriculum and qualifications. In India, our focus sectors include digitech, healthcare and e-vehicles, aligning with the evolving skill needs.

Popular programmes in India encompass artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and machine learning (ML), reflecting the growing interest in upskilling and reskilling. Globally, trends indicate a surge in demand for programmes in technology such as AI/ML, robotics, data analytics and semiconductor manufacturing, Emerging industries like e-sports event management, finance and e-vehicle engineering, growing sectors such as green technology and healthcare.

We plan to expand Pearson BTEC (Business and Technology Education Council) programmes, analyse course preferences and forge new partnerships nationwide. Additionally, we aim to create accessible learning solutions, including digital credentialing tools and workforce analysis for employers.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / The Economic Times

BTEC Qualifications

PTE Academic and PTE Core are both English language proficiency tests but they serve different purposes and cater to distinct audiences.

Speaking English is more than just a talent in a world where communication is essential—it’s a gateway to opportunities that can change people’s lives. For those looking to go abroad for studies or work, higher English proficiency correlates strongly with higher salaries, better job opportunities, and a better social life.

Prabhul Ravindran, Director, English Language Learning, Pearson India in an email interview with Financial Express Online shares the importance of English language proficiency tests, especially the PTE Core, and how it differs from PTE Academic. Excerpts:

How does PTE Core aim to empower test takers in fulfilling their aspirations of living and working in Canada?

The approval from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) signifies that PTE Core meets the official standards for proving English language proficiency, thus providing test takers with a credible pathway toward their immigration goals.

Unlike traditional academic English proficiency tests, PTE Core is designed with a vocational and real-life focus. This means that the test assesses English language skills in contexts relevant to everyday life and work scenarios, which is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to integrate into the Canadian workforce and society.

The accessibility and convenience of PTE Core further contribute to its ability to empower test takers. With the option to book the test online up to 24 hours in advance and year-round availability of test centre slots worldwide, PTE Core offers a flexible and efficient testing experience. Additionally, the rapid turnaround time for receiving test results, typically within two days, enables individuals to progress swiftly with their immigration plans.

What are the differences between PTE Academic and PTE Core?

PTE Academic and PTE Core are both English language proficiency tests provided by Pearson, yet they serve different purposes and cater to distinct audiences. Both tests assess the four key English language skills speaking, listening, reading, and writing. However, the content and structure of the tests differ.

PTE Academic primarily targets academic test takers, such as students applying to universities or colleges, focusing on evaluating language skills within academic contexts.

In contrast, PTE Core is specifically designed for vocational test takers, emphasizing real-life, non-academic scenarios relevant to professions and daily interactions. Additionally, the scoring criteria and test format may vary between the two tests to accommodate their respective target audiences.

Further, PTE Core is for Canadian economic visa purposes only at present. People wanting to study in Canada for both SDS and non-Student Direct Stream (SDS) visas or worldwide and live or work in the UK, Australia or New Zealand need to take PTE Academic as usual.

This difference in task complexity and context reflects the distinct needs and expectations of their respective target audiences. As a result, test takers should consider their specific objectives and linguistic competencies when choosing between the two tests.

How does Pearson’s PTE distinguish itself from competitors like IELTS, TOEFL etc and does IELTS still hold a monopolistic presence in the English proficiency testing industry in India?

PTE widespread acceptance by institutions and governments globally is a key factor in its prominence. PTE Academic is accepted by over 3,300 universities and colleges worldwide, including prestigious institutions like Harvard Business School, INSEAD, and Yale. This broad recognition extends to countries such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, the UK, and Ireland, underlining trust in PTE’s assessments.

Significantly, PTE Academic’s recognition by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications is noteworthy, affirming its quality and credibility for Canadian immigration. Governments in Australia, the UK, and New Zealand also accept PTE scores for visas and study, reflecting trust in its proficiency evaluations.

Last year IRCC approved four new English language assessments, which include PTE Academic, and with recent recognition of PTE Core as well, individuals planning to study, work or immigrate abroad now have credible alternatives to prove their English proficiency.

PTE’s features, include fast results within 48 hours and AI-powered assessment eliminating human bias, making it one of the fastest, fairest, and most accurate tests available.

Overall, Pearson’s PTE offers test takers a reliable and efficient way to demonstrate their English language proficiency, making it a preferred choice for individuals aspiring to study, work, or immigrate abroad.

In what ways is Pearson supporting the global education journey of Indian students?

We play a vital role in supporting the global education journey by offering comprehensive learning and assessment solutions. Our focus is to empower students with proficiency in English, a crucial skill in today’s competitive global landscape.

In partnership with various organizations, we offer value propositions to support students’ journeys. This includes initiatives like our collaboration with University Living, to provide assistance with accommodation, financial services, and logistics for study-abroad aspirants in India, enabling them to focus on their preparation for PTE, without the distraction and anxiety about accommodation and financial support.

From practice tests, and sample question banks to online tutorials, students get to access a wide range of tools that cater to their diverse learning styles to prepare for the PTE test. These resources help boost a student’s confidence while also improving their English language proficiency. To help students overcome doubts, we offer a step-by-step guide enlisting the process and providing a broader picture of the activities to be performed during the PTE Academic exam.

Furthermore, with an extensive network of PTE centres spanning the globe, we ensure easy access to our English proficiency tests, facilitating students in achieving their academic and professional objectives abroad.

What developments do you anticipate in the future of English language proficiency testing or assessment?

One prominent trend is the continued integration of AI and ML algorithms to enhance the assessment process. These technologies, when combined with human expertise, will refine scoring mechanisms, ensuring even greater precision and objectivity in evaluating candidates’ language skills.

Future assessments may incorporate more interactive tasks and simulations that mirror authentic communication contexts, such as virtual role-plays or collaborative problem-solving activities, designed with a real-life, non-academic focus. This shift towards assessing functional language proficiency aligns with the evolving needs of academia, employment, and global communication, where effective language use in practical situations holds paramount importance.

Other potential future trends could involve the integration of AI-driven platforms to offer personalized study plans, adaptive practice exercises, and targeted feedback based on the individual needs identified through a Skills Profile. This would enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of test preparation, ultimately leading to better outcomes for test-takers.

Are there sufficient PTE test centers equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to accommodate the current demand? What does the demand for studying, working, or immigrating to India look like? 

With over 477 test centres in 119 countries, including more than 50 centres in India alone, we have taken proactive measures to ensure accessibility for both PTE Academic and PTE Core test takers across various regions. 

Demonstrating our commitment to providing modern and secure testing environments, we have established a 90-seater state-of-the-art test centre in Chandigarh. This spacious facility reflects our ongoing efforts to cater to the growing demand from students and professionals seeking international opportunities.

In addition to our Pearson Professional Centres, we are actively engaged in strategic partnerships to further expand our network and provide greater accessibility. This commitment is exemplified by our collaboration with Pearson VUE and HCLTech, which has resulted in the opening of several strategically chosen locations addressing the specific needs and ensuring convenient testing options for local candidates.

Over the past five years, we have witnessed a significant increase in test registrations across India, with states like Punjab, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra leading the way. This growing demand underscores the strong interest among Indian students and professionals in pursuing opportunities abroad.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / Financial Express

While 85 percent of people feel that English is critical for work and more than 60 percent use English on a weekly basis, only a quarter feel confident across all four skills of reading, listening, writing, and speaking English in the workplace.

Nearly three-quarters (72 percent) went as far as to say their jobs would be easier if they knew better English, and only a quarter (27 percent) of respondents felt they could fully express themselves when using the language to do their jobs, according to a survey by Pearson.

While 85 percent of people feel that English is critical for work and more than 60 percent use English on a weekly basis, only a quarter feel confident across all four skills of reading, listening, writing, and speaking English in the workplace.

Pearson interviewed more than 5,000 speakers of English as a second or additional language from Japan, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Italy, and Florida (USA).  Across all countries, 80 percent of respondents believe English proficiency skills are directly linked to earning potential, viewing strong English language skills as leading to as much as an 80 percent salary increase.

Those with the highest English proficiency are more satisfied with their existing income and jobs. According to the research, three-quarters (75 percent) of advanced English speakers are satisfied with their income, compared with less than half (47 percent) of beginner English speakers. Nearly 9 in 10 (88 percent) advanced speakers are satisfied with their job, but this number goes down to fewer than two-thirds (64 percent) among beginners.

The study from Pearson also shows more than half (51 percent) of English learners think knowing the language will open up a wider range of job roles, while two-fifths (40 percent) say English will help them climb the ladder to more senior positions in their field – a number which increases to 56 percent in Saudi Arabia, and to half (50 percent) in Brazil and Florida.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / Moneycontrol

Through this initiative, Pearson India will offer a wide selection of the latest editions of learning and education books that are currently published by Pearson

Pearson India, recently launched its first book vending machine in India, reaching out to learners directly in the country. Through this initiative, Pearson India aims to provide easy access to a wide range of academic books, directly to the customers, enhancing their overall purchase experience. The vending machine is installed in Pearson India’s office on Richmond Road.

Through this initiative, Pearson India will offer a wide selection of the latest editions of learning and education books that are currently published by Pearson. Customers, including students and professionals, can make direct payment at the vending machine through UPI and purchase their desired book easily and conveniently, in less than 30 seconds. Over the next few months, Pearson India will set up a few such vending machines across different parts of the country, said the company release.

Vinay Swamy, Country Head, Pearson India, said, “There is an upward trend of students and learners buying reference material to prepare for their entrance exams and academic preparation in India. This book vending machine leverages the buying-onthe-go trend to capitalize on this market opportunity.

We plan to expand this initiative in India by setting up more book vending machines across educational hubs in India that will create innovative touchpoints for consumers, who are looking for simple, easy, and convenient ways of purchasing book,” he further added.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / The Hindu

Baking cakes is not just a way for Pearson India's Vinay Swamy to unwind and bond with his children. It has also taught him to plan ahead and manage his time better

A qualified chartered accountant and a corporate finance leader, Vinay Swamy, Country Head of learning company Pearson India, keeps a busy schedule. Yet, he has figured out ways to keep himself focussed and pumped up through the work week by spending his ‘me time’ doing something that delights him. For starters, he spends his mornings relaxing in his terrace garden. And every other week, he indulges himself by baking cakes.

Baking, he says, helps him to unwind, connect with his family, and create memories with them. For this baking enthusiast, the journey started in 2014, when he decided to turn his love of baking into a meaningful pursuit. And for that, he enrolled in a certification course at the Bengaluru-based Institute of Baking & Cake Art. “This allowed me to bake a strawberry cake for my mother-in-law’s 60th birthday. It’s been 10 years now, and she still recalls it as one of the best cakes she has ever had,” Swamy says with a smile.

The Pearson India boss says his ardour for baking has also played a pivotal role in his parenting journey. He recalls how he began baking delectable chocolate cakes nearly every week for his wife when his younger daughter Maanya was on the way. “This not only heightened my love for baking, but it also became a medium to craft some of my most cherished memories,” he says, adding that now, every moment spent baking with his children is a treasure for him. Not only do these baking sessions bring them closer, he says, but they also give him an opportunity to impart vital life skills to his children. For him, it’s a fun way of forging connections and cultivating endearing memories, and at the same time sharing in the sheer delight of baking a delicious cake.

Swamy says that the true joy of baking is not just in the end product, but in the process of making a cake. It’s a meticulous process that requires careful planning and foresight, which Swamy says, has helped him organise his life better.

The Pearson vending machine was equipped with a 'Prepare Well' hashtag painted on it.

A vending machine for books, equipped with UPI payment options, has been sighted in Bengaluru and shared on social media branded as a “peak Bengaluru” moment.

The photograph shared by X user Ramanan (@Ramanan) shows the Pearson vending machine offering a curated selection of books spanning subjects such as Indian economy, marketing, UGC, and machine learning. The user tagged the X handle of Peak Bengaluru, that is known for sharing viral ‘only in Bengaluru’ moments.

Bengaluru, known as the Silicon Valley of India, continues to surprise with innovative solutions. The vending machine equipped with a “Prepare Well” hashtag painted on the machine also hints at the high pressure of Indian students prepping for competitive examinations.

The X user who shared the snapshot, expressed his amazement with a tweet that read, "Vending machine for books with UPI payment @peakbengaluru moment."

Vending machines traditionally dispense snacks, chips, candy, drinks and other readymade snacks in exchange of cash. With technology, UPI payments are also a mode of payment for people using the vending machines. However, vending machines selling books have not been too common especially in India.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / Money Control

Hyderabad, February 26 (UNI) Pearson, the world’s leading learning company, on Monday announced its partnership with Solitaire Business School, a premier educational institution in Hyderabad, to offer Pearson’s BTEC Higher Nationals programmes in Business Management and courses in Sport, Fitness Instructing and Personal Training, Marketing and Business. Pearson BTECs are vocational skill qualification programs, developed in consultation with industry experts, educators and employers offering a diverse range of qualifications across different industries and sectors, the company said in a release here.

The qualifications are internationally recognised providing progression to both university and employment, where real-life scenarios are used for assignments and assessments.

They are offered at 30 plus partners in India, including universities, colleges, international schools, and private training centres. The qualifications are offered in over 24 subject areas with more than 2000 qualifications ranging from business to digital technology to art and design to healthcare and many more, enabling learners with skills relevant to the global workplace. On the announcement of the partnership, Mir Murtuza Ali, Chairperson of Solitaire Business School, said, “Their curriculum materials, platforms, and assessments are widely respected and used by leading institutions worldwide. With Pearson’s expertise and Solitaire Business Schools’ unwavering commitment to student success, I’m confident this collaboration will open doors to exciting global opportunities for us.” On the partnership, Daniyal Ali, Director of Solitaire Business School, said, “ Through this collaboration, we at Solitaire Business Schools aim to ensure our students are always adaptive to the changing landscape and have the necessary skills for the future of work.” “Our collaboration with the Solitaire Business School represents our alignment with India’s National Education Policy 2020, wherein the Indian government aims to expand vocational education to at least 50 percent of learners in the school and higher education system by 2025. Through this partnership, we will provide vocational training and skill development programs that are relevant to the evolving job market for learners.”

Siddharth Parnerkar, International Sales Director, Pearson. Recently, Pearson also collaborated with the National Skill Development Corporation International (NSDCI) to address the urgent need for upskilling and workforce development in India.

Read More / UNI India

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More/Pearson BTEC

University Living claims to offer two million beds in 65,000 properties across 515 international education hubs spanning the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and UAE.

Pearson, a global education company, has partnered with University Living (UL), an online marketplace for student accommodations worldwide, aimed at assisting study-abroad aspirants in India with foreign accommodation, financial services, and logistical support. This collaboration aims to provide exclusive discounts, benefits and support services tailored to facilitate the global mobility of Indian students taking the PTE test, according to an official release.

Through this alliance, Pearson and University Living aims to host webinars, seminars and campus visits to offer valuable insights and guidance to aspiring learners. Additionally, they will introduce destination-specific promotions on accommodation and educational packages targeting key markets such as Canada, the UK, Australia and New Zealand, the release mentioned.

“Our collaboration with Pearson is a step further in this direction to support the outbound student community in their academic pursuits across borders majorly in Australia and Canada. We stand committed in our endeavour to provide the students with safe spaces where they can give shape to their academic and professional aspirations,” Saurabh Arora, founder and CEO, University Living, said.

University Living claims to offer two million beds in 65,000 properties across 515 international education hubs spanning the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and UAE. 

“Our collaboration with University Living is aimed to empower these students by simplifying and streamlining the entire process. Together, we will help the students to focus on their preparation for PTE, without the distraction and anxiety about accommodation and financial support,” Prabhul Ravindran, director of English language learning, Pearson India, said.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / The Financial Express

‘A history of ancient and early medieval India’ (Pearson), as Singh explains, was written keeping in mind general readers who are interested in getting an in-depth understanding of ancient India and students of history.

The first edition of this book was published by Pearson almost 15 years ago in 2008. Almost 15 years after historian Upinder Singh published her comprehensive study of ancient and early medieval India, she has come out with a second edition of her book. ‘A history of ancient and early medieval India’ (Pearson), as Singh explains, was written keeping in mind general readers who are interested in getting an in-depth understanding of ancient India and students of history. Her book is celebrated for introducing budding historians to primary sources, historical methodologies and concepts in a thoroughly detailed and comprehensible manner. In her second edition, also published by Pearson, she keeps her original thoughts intact while adding newer research such as that on the history of less explored parts of the subcontinent like the Northeast and Kashmir, and the global networks that connected ancient India to the rest of the world.

1. What have you done differently in the second edition of ‘A history of ancient and early medieval India?’

The first edition of this book was published by Pearson almost 15 years ago in 2008. I had some specific aims in mind when I wrote it. I wanted to integrate archaeology and history, to include subordinated groups in social history, to give due importance to religion and philosophy, and to highlight the intellectual and aesthetic domains. I felt that books on ancient India did not have to be boring. There was a wonderful world of primary sources, including literature and art, that readers should be exposed to, and it was important to explain that none of these sources could be interpreted in a simplistic way. I wanted my book to be balanced but also forward my perspective. At the same time, I wanted to create a window for questioning, so that readers could approach debates with an open mind, and develop an ability to critically evaluate evidence and arguments. Historical inquiry is after all an on-going process and there can never be a last word.

I still feel strongly about all these things and they are reflected in the second edition also published by Pearson. But over the years, my perspectives and interests have expanded. I have become interested in the history of ideas, the interactions between the state and the forest people, the connections between art and history, and the subcontinent’s connections with other parts of the world. I have incorporated these interests into the second edition, so it is significantly different from the first. Also, of course, there has been a great deal of new work produced by other scholars on many aspects of ancient India, which I have gained from and cited. I wanted to especially draw attention to the work of the younger generation of historians on whom we depend to expand our understanding of ancient India in the future.

This edition contains a more detailed treatment of the history of science and mathematics. Certain regions of the subcontinent tend to get neglected in the history books, so I have included more material on Kashmir and the Northeast. This is actually a book on the early history of South Asia, so there is also more on the regions of South Asia beyond the modern boundaries of India, namely Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. When I set out to work on the second edition, I was aware that a lot of updating would be needed. It surprised me that some sections did not need any rewriting. But a lot of new details needed to be added. For instance, the discoveries at the stone age site of Attirampakkam (in Tamil Nadu), early rice at Lahuradeva (in Uttar Pradesh), and early Tamil-Brahmi writing at Kodumanal (in Tamil Nadu). I had to completely rewrite Chapter 7 which is about the Maurya period. When I wrote the first edition, I was of course aware that the Arthashastra is not generally considered a work of the Maurya period any more, and that it is a theoretical treatise on statecraft. But I still included it in the chapter on the Maurya empire. This time around, I discussed it in Chapter 8 (which deals with the period c. 200 BCE-300 CE), as a brilliant and influential work on statecraft and political ideas. In the last chapter of the book, which is on the early medieval period, I expanded the discussion of Islam, the Arabs and Turks, and how international trade led to the growth of multi-cultural and multi-religious communities on the western coast.

2. In your preface you say that you have tried to view the Indian subcontinent as part of an intricate network of interaction with other parts of the world. Could you please elaborate?

These interactions included war, trade, diplomacy, religious networks, and the circulation of ideas. Everyone knows about the Persian and Macedonian invasions of the northwest. But we don’t think enough about the centuries of invasions that took place between c. 200 BCE and 300 CE, between the end of the Maurya dynasty and the emergence of the Gupta empire. These are the invasions of the Bactrian Greeks, Shakas, Parthians and Kushanas. The political developments in north India during this period were closely connected with political developments in Central Asia and China. Even though the Shaka era is still used in India, the Shakas are very understudied. Archaeology has contributed a great deal to the understanding of trade interactions, especially across the Indian Ocean. Take, for example, the discoveries of hundreds of inscriptions and drawings on Hoq Cave in Socotra, a small island off the course of Yemen. A shipwreck found off the coast of Godawaya in Southern Sri Lanka, is the oldest shipwreck known in South Asia. Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions have been found at the ports of Berenike and Quseiral-Qadim on the Red Sea coast. Whether or not Pattanam is the ancient Muziris of Graeco-Roman accounts, this site in Kerala gives exciting evidence of flourishing trade with the Mediterranean, north Afghanistan, west Asia, and China.

The story of interactions is not only about trade. There are lots of tantalizing pieces in the puzzle, for instance, the ivory statuette representing the goddess Lakshmi or a yakshi found in Pompeii in Italy, the Buddha statue found at Berenike in Egypt, and the bronze statuette of the Roman sea god Poseidon found at Brahmapuri in Maharashtra.

Migration has always been an important part of the history of the Indian subcontinent, with people constantly coming in and going out. Quanzhou in China yielded over 300 Hindu images and artefacts, and a bilingual Tamil–Chinese inscription. This suggests the presence of a colony of Tamil merchants, perhaps members of a guild, in the 13th/14th century. There are references to Brahmin physicians and astrologers in Chinese courts. The spread of Sanskrit texts and Vedic rituals to Southeast Asia also presumes Brahmin migrations.

There was also rivalry, conflict and war. In the 11th century, the Cholas and Srivijayans sent diplomatic missions to the Song court in China. In a masterstroke of diplomacy, the Shrivijayans seem to have convinced the Chinese that the Cholas were the Shrivijayans’ subordinates! The subsequent Chola expedition to Srivijaya shows the connections between trade interests and war. It is a unique instance when an ancient Indian political power launched a trans-oceanic military operation.

The evolving religious networks are evident in the spread of Buddhism across Asia and the spread of Hinduism to Southeast Asia. We know about land grants made by kings of the subcontinent, but some Southeast Asian rulers also made religious grants in India. In recent years, looking at ancient India’s connections with Southeast Asia has become fashionable, but we seem to have regressed to the earlier ‘Greater India’ perspective which is obsessed with India’s influence on the world. I see India as part of a wider world we need to learn more about, as a centre of both influence and confluence. I hope that a young generation of scholars will develop the linguistic and other skills to contribute meaningfully to the production of knowledge about India–Southeast Asia relations. We also need young scholars who can focus on the intellectual exchanges between India and East Asia. This will involve a lot of training and hard work. But it will unveil exciting stories not only about connections, but also cultural specificity and difference. It will also open up the exciting field of the comparative study of ideas.

3. You have included a section on new scientific techniques used in archaeology. How would you say that these new techniques have enhanced our understanding of ancient India?

The amount of data produced by archaeology is likely to grow faster than that of other sources. Archaeological methods, including scientific dating methods are extremely important. Remote sensing techniques make it possible to study sites without invasive and expensive excavations. For instance, B. M. Rajani’s work on Nalanda has identified structures that are not visible above the ground. Another important example of the application of science to archaeology is the study by Kalyan Sekhar Chakraborty and others of animal bones and lipid profiles in pottery fragments at the site of Kotada Bhadli in Gujarat, which brings out the importance of dairy farming for the Harappans. Genome analysis is now an important part of the debate on the Indo-Europeans and Indo-Aryans. The genome study of a woman’s skeleton found at Rakhigarhi is important, but we need a much larger sampling and many more studies of ancient DNA. In the future, I am sure that genome analysis will add substantially to our understanding of the migrations and mixtures of populations across different parts of the world.

4. In the polarised world of today, how would you want budding historians to read and reflect upon ancient Indian history?

My book is simultaneously aimed at two audiences — general readers and students, basically anyone who is interested in an in-depth understanding of ancient and early medieval India. For both audiences, I think that balance is very important. I would like young students to understand that history is an exciting discipline based on a rigorous analysis and interpretation of sources and logical and creative reasoning. Budding historians should work hard to develop the linguistic or archaeological skills they need to interpret their sources. I also think that young Indian historians should broaden their horizons beyond India to explore the histories of other parts of the world. Historians are bound to look at the past through the eyes of their present, but readers must understand that all hypotheses are not equally valid. They must recognize the difference between historical interpretations that are based on sound analysis and argument, and those that are not. But this cannot happen unless historians clearly explain their methods and debates to non-specialists, especially students. I have tried to do that in my book.

I am aware that these days, a lot of stuff claiming to be history is circulating on the internet; a great deal of it is not sound history. Readers of books and consumers of internet material need to be able to distinguish between history and pseudo-history and propaganda. They should beware of simple stories of heroes and villains. History is complex and our past consists of many different strands. As I have pointed out in my book, Ancient India: Culture of Contradictions, understanding history requires abandoning simplistic stereotypes and preconceived notions; it requires a sensitivity to the nuances and complexities of the subject. I strongly believe that students should resist following any particular ‘line.’ They should resist becoming camp followers of whichever group happens to be powerful or influential at a particular time. They should critique existing views independently and fearlessly, ask new questions, find their own answers, and strike their own path.

5. What would you say has been the most challenging part about writing a textbook on ancient Indian history?

As it is not possible to include everything in a single volume, I had to make judicious choices about what to include and what to leave out. Maintaining a balance while conveying a perspective was very challenging. Another challenging part (and the most enjoyable) was to find ways of igniting interest. You cannot inspire interest if your book is boring. I tried to enliven my book through excerpts from primary sources, visuals, and discussions of new research, especially the research of young scholars. A larger aim of my book is to inspire young people to read and think beyond the book, to get interested in exploring neglected and new areas.

6. Is there any aspect of ancient Indian history that you think is yet to be adequately researched and written about by historians?

There are so many aspects of ancient Indian history that need more research. Archaeology is likely to add substantially to our knowledge about the Indian past. I think we need much more work on the archaeology of the early medieval period. We need much more work on the history of ideas. There are regions of the subcontinent such as the northeast that are very under-represented in history books. Sri Lanka is a small but very important island from the point of view of trade and religious networks. In fact, the history of ancient India has to be seen in larger global context. There are so many different kinds of connections with China, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe and Africa. We haven’t even reached the tip of the iceberg in studying these connections.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / The Indian Express

“Pearson has introduced PTE Core, a new English language proficiency test approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The test is tailored for vocational purposes and can be used to demonstrate English proficiency for Canadian PR or citizenship. It assesses speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and is available for booking starting February 12.

Indians applying for Canadian PR or Canadian citizenship now have a new choice of test for English proficiency. Pearson has opened bookings for PTE Core, its latest English language proficiency test. Approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) last year, PTE Core can now be used to demonstrate English language proficiency for permanent economic immigration to Canada or Canadian citizenship, with tests starting from February 12.

PTE Core, an addition to the Pearson Test of English portfolio, shares distinctive features with PTE Academic. It is a two-hour, computer-based exam conducted in a test center setting, assessing four key English language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

PTE Core is tailored for vocational test-takers, offering a real-life, non-academic focus. Developed to meet Canada's specific migration requirements and IRCC's language proficiency standards, it can be used to assess English proficiency for vocational purposes in any country.

“We are excited to roll out PTE Core to test takers in India and help the test takers to achieve their dreams of living and working in Canada. PTE Core is a new test from Pearson, designed to offer a vocational and real-life focus to support the Canadian Government’s migration needs. This is an important step for Pearson, boosting our aim to become the global leader in English language for committed learners,” Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning, Pearson India, said.

With Canada's focus on economic recovery and growth post-pandemic, IRCC is expanding its Levels Plan to address increasing demand. PTE Core's approval comes at an opportune time, providing new possibilities for test-takers, especially in professions like nursing, engineering, and web development.

PTE Core addresses Canadian economic migration needs, complementing PTE Academic, accepted by IRCC since August 2023 for Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications. PTE Academic is already recognized by over 97% of universities and 95% of colleges in Canada, as well as governments in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. PTE Academic is also widely accepted by universities in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and 99% of UK universities.

Delivered through Pearson VUE, the fully digital PTE Core test utilizes cutting-edge AI technology, reviewed by human raters, for scoring. Enhanced security measures, including biometric data collection, ensure a fair and precise evaluation of English language proficiency. Test-takers can book PTE Core online up to 24 hours in advance, benefit from year-round test slots worldwide, and receive results, on average, within two days.

PTE Core will be introduced across Pearson's global network, spanning over 400 PTE centers in 118 countries, including 25 test centers in Canada.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / The Economic Times