Want to Help Transform Rural Livelihoods? WFP’s Resilience Programme Is Accepting Applications

Stop chasing empty job posts on LinkedIn. Real careers are now built through hands-on work in universities, field programs, and development projects like this one,  where impact matters more than titles. The World Food Programme is now accepting proposals for its Resilience Innovation Programme, with applications open until 29 August 2025. This is not just about ideas, but about action. Find Jobs Here…..

Apply to WFP’s Resilience Innovation in Bangladesh:

The World Food Programme is now accepting applications for something called the “Resilience Innovation Programme” in Bangladesh. The deadline to apply is 29 August 2025.

Now, what exactly is this about? It is focused on building long-term systems to help vulnerable people, especially those who are poor or socially at risk, deal with climate shocks and other emergencies. They want to scale up certain tools. That includes individual insurance products, faster emergency response systems, and ways to support livelihoods that can handle unpredictable weather and changing conditions.

But it is not just about rolling out tools. The idea is to work closely with governments and private companies so that these solutions actually reach the people who need them the most. They are aiming for something that lasts. Something that does not fade once the project ends.

This effort is part of the second Country Strategic Plan, which runs from 2022 to 2026. The first plan made some progress. Now, this second one wants to go further. Not just running programs, but handing over responsibility to national and local actors like governments, communities, and private sector players. The overall aim is to build a system that helps rural economies become stronger and more secure in the face of risks.

The programme focuses on some main areas. Food security and livelihoods are two of them. That means activities like providing seeds or farm tools, offering cash assistance, assessing food needs, helping local farmers reach markets, and teaching people how to depend less on aid.

As for where this work will happen, the focus is on several parts of Bangladesh. These include Khulna, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, Sylhet, Barisal, and Chittagong. If your organization wants to apply, you need to show that you really know these places. Not just know them, but have worked there. You need to prove you have at least two years of experience in these divisions, districts, and sub-districts.

Your organization should also have deep knowledge of agriculture and livestock insurance. That includes a good understanding of local laws and regulations on insurance and micro-insurance.

Besides technical skills, they want groups that can pass on their knowledge to communities. Ideally, this will be done in partnership with local insurance brokers. You should also have experience with community outreach, financial inclusion, adapting to climate change, reducing disaster risks, and supporting people through social protection.

If your organization has conducted food or cash distribution, assisted with emergency response, built resilience-focused infrastructure, or implemented Risk Reduction Action Plans, that will enhance your application.

Finally, your proposal will be judged on several points. These include how easy it is to access and operate in the area, how clearly you describe your activities, how cost-effective the plan is, what resources you bring, whether you have worked with UN agencies before, and how strong your local presence is. They will also look at whether your team can actually manage the work well.

See more information at the UN Partner Portal.

The Invisible Threat Small Businesses Face From Google AI

GoogleRanking vs Google AI Mode: Small businesses once relied on Google to bring users to their websites through clicks. But with the rise of AI Overviews that answer user questions directly, website visits are shrinking, even when rankings stay intact. This change poses a growing risk to content-driven firms and local service providers. Experts urge businesses to adapt by refining online content, managing their digital presence, and finding visibility in new ways.

How Small Businesses Can Survive Google’s AI Overview

If you ran a small business and wanted to be seen online, the formula was kind of simple. You either worked your way up in Google search results with good content, or you paid for ads. That was the game. But now, since May 2024, Google has rolled out something called AI Overviews. And it is... different. It answers users’ questions right there on the search page. No links, no clicks, just a summary.

This means people do not always need to visit your site anymore. They search, Google’s AI gives them a full answer, and that is it. They move on. No more clicking through to your website. That is where the problem begins, especially for businesses that built their strategy around content.

Points to Ensure:

·      AI Overviews show answers directly on search pages, reducing the need for users to visit websites.
·      Small businesses built on educational or informational content are being hit hardest.
·      Click-throughs are dropping even when rankings or impressions stay the same.
·      AI Overviews still use content from websites, but don't always pass on traffic.
·       Lost clicks = lost opportunity to build trust, showcase services, or gain leads.
·       Seer Interactive reports a 70% drop in click-through rate when AI Overviews appear.
·       Only 1% of users click links in AI summaries, says Pew Research.
·       80% of people rely on AI results for at least 40% of their searches (Bain & Company).

Andrew Shotland, who runs Local SEO Guide, has been seeing this shift already. He mentioned a law firm client that used to get lots of traffic from questions like “Is car sex legal in Alabama?” Not a common question, maybe, but those kinds of legal curiosities brought real traffic. Now? Google just shows an AI summary about Alabama laws on public lewdness and misdemeanors, and users do not need to click the actual site. The law firm’s content is still there in the search results... but fewer people are clicking through.

And those lost clicks? They matter. No click means no visit. No visit means no chance to introduce yourself, show your services, or build trust. The weird part is that many businesses might not even notice this decline right away. Because impressions, or how often your site appears, might stay the same, or even go up. Why? Because the AI is still using your site to pull info. It just does not send users to you. It counts as an impression, but not as a visit.

So everything might LOOK fine, until you realize your clicks have dropped. That is the real metric that matters.

A firm called Seer Interactive reported that when AI Overviews show up, click-through rates drop by around 70 percent. And Pew Research says users are about half as likely to click on anything when there is an AI summary at the top. Only around 1 percent click on links inside those summaries.

That is a massive change. Bain & Company even said that “zero-click” search is now redefining marketing. Their data suggests 80 percent of people rely on these AI results for at least 40 percent of their searches.

It is not a small shift. In fact, in 2022, Forrester said 59 percent of retail transactions had some online component, whether the sale happened online or customers did research online before buying in person. That was worth 2.7 trillion dollars. By 2027, they say it will hit 3.8 trillion. So yes, online visibility is still everything.

Right now, news and info websites are the ones getting hit hardest. But small businesses that rely on educational content are seeing it too. Fisher from Steady Demand (a search consultant) backs this up. He says restaurants, plumbers, and even lawyers are still showing up and still getting leads. But some of them, especially the ones who depend on getting attention through blog posts or articles, are already seeing fewer clicks.

So what are experts advising? And this might sound odd, they are saying: Keep creating educational content.

More Points to Consider

• ·      Users may trust AI summaries more, and seeing your name there helps with brand recall.
• ·    Clicks are easier to measure than trust, but both matter.
• ·     Check how your business appears in AI Overviews. Search your business and key questions.
• ·      If something looks wrong, use the thumbs-down button under the summary to report it.
• ·      Keep business listings and websites updated. That helps control your digital narrative.
• ·      Don't block AI bots; you will lose visibility in summaries altogether.
• ·     Use content formats that AI handles well: bullet points, lists, and videos.

In the end, this is not a total crisis for small businesses. Not yet. But things are changing fast. If you wait too long, you could lose ground. Start adapting. Optimize for AI. Explore platforms outside search, like YouTube, TikTok, or even email lists. The rules are changing, but you can still play the game. Just differently.

Also Read: How to Write Google-Optimized Content That Ranks Higher

Thinking of Studying Tech or Science Abroad Next Year? Read This

Synopsis: Two major international scholarships are now open but will close soon. One is from Google for tech students, and the other from Thailand's Chulabhorn Institute for science-related master's studies. Both aim to support students with talent and financial need.

These Study Abroad Scholarships Are Still Open, but Not for Long

Let us say someone wants to study abroad. In tech. In environmental science or health. But they do not have the means. Or they are not sure where to begin. There are two scholarship programs still accepting applications. Not for long, though. So if someone is serious, they should act now.

One is from Google. It is called the Generation Google Scholarship. It is for the academic year 2025 to 2026. It supports students who are studying computer science or something close to it. The primary focus is to support students from underrepresented groups in tech. Google wants more diversity in the field. So this scholarship is their way of helping with that.

Now, about who can apply. The scholarship is open in several places. Students from Asia Pacific, Canada, the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Ireland. In some regions like APAC, EMEA, and Ireland, only female students are eligible. In North America, both male and female students can apply.

The amount of the scholarship depends on the region. For Asia Pacific, it is two thousand five hundred US dollars for the academic year. In the United States, it is ten thousand dollars. For Canada, five thousand Canadian dollars. In Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, it is seven thousand euros or something close to that in local currency. For Ireland, it is five thousand euros per year, for two years.

Let us take the Asia Pacific region as an example. To apply, the student must be in their second or third year of a bachelor’s degree in 2024 to 2025. They must also plan to continue in the same region the following year. The field of study must be computer science, computer engineering, or something very similar. The student should have good academic records and a clear interest in technology. They should also be committed to making tech more inclusive and fair.

The last date to apply is 14 August. The application link is given here.

Apply Here

Apply Here

Now, coming to the second scholarship. This one is for science students. Especially those interested in environmental health, chemical sciences, or toxicology. It is from the Chulabhorn Graduate Institute in Thailand. The CGI Scholarship for 2026 is fully funded and for a master’s degree.

It is open to students from any country. As long as they meet the conditions. The scholarship was started in 2006. The goal is to build scientific leadership that can solve environmental and health problems around the world. It was created under the guidance of Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Mahidol.

There are fifteen scholarships available for 2026. All are fully funded. That means tuition is covered. There is a monthly allowance. Health insurance is included. Travel is paid for. Even visa fees and book costs are handled. Students also get a settlement allowance and accommodation support. Everything they need to start a master’s program abroad.

What is required to apply? The applicant must be under thirty years old. They should have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field like chemistry, biology, pharmacy, medicine, or environmental science. A minimum CGPA of 2.75 is required. The student should also have experience working in a lab. They must take an English language test, either TOEFL or IELTS. Finally, they need to submit a statement explaining what they want to study and why.

The study program includes six weeks of refresher courses followed by two years of full-time master’s level study. Applications must be sent with all required documents. Selection is based on grades, research experience, and motivation.

Last date to apply is 30 September 2025.

See the application link HERE.

See the application link HERE.

For students who are ready to take the next step in tech or science, and who meet the eligibility requirements, these two scholarships might be the support they need. Both are global, both are competitive, and both are closing soon.

   

Find Jobs Here: Can This Fellowship Shape Your Academic Career?

Synopsis: Work anywhere, life-earning careers are built through real opportunities like this, while endless job searching on LinkedIn often drains time and hope. The European University Institute has opened applications for the 2026–2027 Max Weber Fellowship, a full-time residential programme in Florence, Italy..

Max Weber Fellowship 2026–2027: What the Selection Committee Looks For

The European University Institute in Florence has started accepting applications for the Max Weber Postdoctoral Fellowship for the academic year 2026 to 2027.

This programme lasts for twelve months. It begins on the first of September 2026 and continues until the end of August 2027. It is a residential programme, which means the selected researchers need to stay in Florence for the duration. The last date for sending applications is the fifteenth of October 2025 at fourteen hours Central European Summer Time.

The fellowship is created for researchers who are at the beginning of their academic careers. It is meant for people working in subjects like social sciences and humanities. It is not just a space to sit and write research alone. The programme combines individual research time with training sessions, seminars, and guidance on academic teaching and publishing. Many previous fellows have said that it helped them to build their research profile and move towards stable academic positions later.

The fellowship is open to applicants from every part of the world. People are accepted from fields such as economics, history, law, political science, and social science. The European University Institute provides full access to its library and allows fellows to be part of an active academic community.

 To be eligible, an applicant must have completed a Doctor of Philosophy degree between the first of September 2021 and the first of September 2026. If the degree is not yet awarded, the applicant must be ready to defend the thesis before the programme begins. The defence must be completed by the end of December 2026. If a researcher has had breaks in their career because of parental leave, illness, or military service, the eligibility period can be extended. This must be explained clearly in the application and supported with documents if the candidate is selected.

Researchers who are currently working at the European University Institute cannot apply unless they have worked outside the Institute in a full-time position or fellowship for at least one year.

Applicants must have strong skills in the English language equal to level C1 of the Common European Framework. Proof is not needed while applying, but will be required if selected. A thesis written in English or a published work can serve as evidence. People who are native English speakers or have completed postgraduate studies in English do not need to provide further proof.

Fellows are offered twelve months in Florence along with a monthly financial allowance. Travel support is provided. Additional allowances are available for families if applicable. The programme also includes workshops, training for academic careers, and guidance for publishing research.

The selection process is competitive. A committee of academics evaluates the applications. They consider the quality of the research, the originality of the proposal, and how well the work matches with the faculty at the Institute. Some applicants may be contacted for further information during the process.

Applications must be submitted online through the European University Institute website. Applicants are advised to apply early to avoid any problems close to the deadline. Full details and frequently asked questions are available on the Max Weber Programme webpage.

About The Best Blog

The best blog is run by P C Thomas as part of his portfolio. He is a seasoned writer from Indore whose work caters to those seeking insightful content. With several years of experience in print journalism, financial writing, business reporting, and industry research, his articles reflect both expertise and clarity.

The blog covers a variety of topics, including economic policies, job market trends, and research opportunities. Many recent posts explore real-world issues, such as how US tariffs impact India’s gem export market or where businesses can find relevant research funding. 

What makes this blog stand out is not just the information but the voice behind it. A writer who has spent decades studying industries, writing stories, and presenting facts with care. That combination of insight and practical knowledge makes the content both trustworthy and engaging. He can be reached at - askpcthomas@gmail.com

How US Tariffs Might Trigger Massive Job Losses in Indian Gem Exports

Synopsis: A new 25 percent US tariff on Indian imports has put India’s jewelry export sector under severe stress. With $9.9 billion worth of exports at stake and fears of over one lakh job losses, industry insiders warn of a crisis, especially for handmade jewelry. Many are now pinning their hopes on the upcoming India-US trade talks to ease the blow.

US tariffs may put over one lakh jobs in India’s jewelry industry at risk.

It is reportedly looking bad for India’s gem and jewelry sector right now. The United States has announced a 25 percent tariff on Indian imports starting August 1. Last year, India exported nearly 9.9 billion dollars' worth of jewelry to the US, so this move is not small at all. People in the industry are worried that this could hit handmade jewelry exports the hardest. There is talk that these products might no longer find buyers in the US if the cost goes up too much.

What makes it even more concerning is that a similar situation happened before when a 10 percent tariff was imposed. Back then, around fifty thousand people were suspected to have lost their jobs. If the new tariff creates a bigger impact, over one lakh jobs could be on the line this time. For a sector that depends so heavily on exports, that would be a serious blow.

The U.S. remains one of the largest markets for Indian gems and jewelry. And this sudden decision adds another layer of uncertainty. The industry has already been under pressure for the last two years due to global tensions, conflicts in Russia, Ukraine, and the Middle East. Now, with the new tariff in place, many fear that trade activity with the United States will slow down significantly.

Despite the worry, there is still some hope. The upcoming sixth round of India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement talks is scheduled at the end of August. Many are looking at these discussions as a chance to ease the situation or reach a deal that protects the jewelry industry from severe damage.

From my own point of view, this whole situation feels like watching a slow storm build over an industry that so many families depend on. A tariff like this does not just mean higher costs; it ripples into real lives, into the small workshops where people sit for hours shaping delicate pieces by hand. I keep thinking about how we already saw what happened last time, when the tariff was only ten percent and still thousands of jobs slipped away. Now, with a twenty-five percent hike, the worry is heavier. It is not just numbers or trade figures on paper; it is the uncertainty that gnaws at everyone working in this line, wondering if orders will dry up or if shipments will just stop moving. And it comes at a time when the industry has been stumbling under so many outside pressures already, from conflicts abroad to markets slowing down. To me, it feels like the sector is standing at a cliff edge, waiting for some balance to return, hoping the upcoming trade talks can throw even a small lifeline before more livelihoods are swept away.

********

About The Best Blog

"The best Blog is run by P C Thomas, a seasoned writer from Indore, India. With over 25 years of experience in print journalism and hands-on work in financial writing, business reporting, and industry research, his articles demonstrate both expertise and clarity. 

The blog covers a variety of topics, including economic policies, job market trends, and research opportunities. Many recent posts explore real-world issues, such as how US tariffs impact India’s gem export market or where businesses can find relevant research funding. 

What makes this blog stand out is not just the information but the voice behind it. A writer who has spent decades studying industries, writing stories, and presenting facts with care. That combination of insight and practical knowledge makes the content both trustworthy and engaging. 

Top Performers, Top Targets? What Layoffs Are Really Teaching Us

Synopsis: What if being the highest paid at work quietly puts you at the top of the layoff list? This piece unpacks why high salaries can backfire in unstable job markets, how even strong performers are not always safe, and what steps professionals can take to stay prepared without panicking. It is not just about doing your job well; it is about reading the room, adapting early, and thinking two steps ahead.

Okay, this whole thing about layoffs has been coming up a lot lately. And I have been noticing something... people with really high salaries are sometimes the first ones to be let go. That sounds strange, right? You would think that if someone is paid well, it means they are valuable. But apparently, it is not always that simple.

Someone on Reddit mentioned that expensive employees often get cut first during tough times. I paused at that. It made me think. Maybe when a company is trying to quickly lower costs, they just look at who costs the most, not necessarily who performs best. So, if you are earning a big paycheck, you might be more at risk, not less.

Now that is unsettling. But it does not mean you should not aim high. It just means you should be smart about it. If you are earning more, you should probably be saving more. Maybe investing wisely. You cannot assume the money will always keep coming.

There is also the career side of things. If your current job is giving you skills, connections, and experience that could help you land your next opportunity faster, then you are in a good spot. But if it is just a title and a paycheck, that is risky. You are standing on a narrow ledge.

Some people think jumping jobs too often looks bad. But sometimes, it might actually help. If it gives you growth, or better stability, or a better learning curve, it might be worth it. It depends on the situation. The key is not to jump without a reason. Or just for slightly more money.

To sum up: Additionally, layoffs are not always based solely on performance. That is a hard pill to swallow. But it is true. Some truly dedicated and hardworking individuals are being laid off. So being good at your job is not always enough. You have to be visible, adaptable, and useful across teams, if possible.

IB Announces 4,987 Security Assistant Posts: Age Limit, Salary, Key Dates

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) releases details for one of the largest Intelligence Bureau recruitments aimed at 10th pass candidates.

The MHA is hiring for the Intelligence Bureau, specifically for Security Assistant and Executive posts. There are 4,987 openings, which is quite a large number. It immediately stands out because this is the kind of role that connects directly to India’s internal security and counterintelligence work.

What makes it more interesting is that the minimum qualification is just 10th pass. That means many people who may not have a higher education can still aspire to this. The age limit is capped at 27.  It is clearly aimed at younger candidates who want to build a career in this sector.

The last date of submission till August 17, 2025, and they close exactly at 11:59 PM on the last day. The process itself follows a clear route: there is a written test in two tiers and then an interview. The salary range is between Rs. 21,700 and Rs. 69,100, which for a government job with national security responsibility seems fair.

The job locations are spread all over India. The distribution of vacancies is also interesting to see. Delhi alone has 1,124 positions. Trivandrum has 334, Chennai has 285. When broken down by category, the general category has 2,471 openings, OBC has 1,015, EWS 501, SC 574, and ST 426.

For applying, candidates need to go through the official Ministry of Home Affairs website or the National Career Service portal. The official notification needs to be read carefully because it details eligibility  that could make or break the application.

For anyone who has been thinking of getting into government service, especially in a role tied to intelligence and national security, this feels like one of those moments worth paying attention to.

For Kerala, 334 opportunities in Thiruvananthapuram. Legal relaxation will be available. Application fee: General / OBC / EWS category: Rs. 650. SC / ST / Women: Rs. 550.

Website-  www.mha.gov.in, www.ncs.gov.in.

 More details, https://cdn.digialm.com/EForms/configuredHtml/1258/94478/Index.html