Archives June 2023

Kolkata, 14th June 2023: The Indian Chamber of Commerce organised the highly anticipated BIMSTEC Business Conclave 2023, from the 13th to the 15th of June (Tuesday – Thursday) at the prestigious Hyatt Regency in Kolkata. This event marked a notable milestone in fostering regional cooperation and economic integration among the member countries of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). BIMSTEC Conclave brings together seven member nations/states to promote economic growth, connectivity, enhanced trade, investment, and much more. This conclave offered plenty of opportunities for networking, idea exchange, and collaboration between attendees. It acted as a facilitator to encourage business collaborations, joint ventures, and technology exchanges between business owners, financiers, influential figures, and policymakers from the member nations. Many esteemed dignitaries were present for this business conclave like Mehul Mohanka, President, Indian Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Tashi Wangmo, Secretary, Industry, Commerce and Employment, Government of Bhutan, Mr. Wanchai Varavithya Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of Thailand, Dr. Shashi Panja, Hon’ble Minister of Industry & Commerce, Government of West Bengal, H.E. Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Vice Minister, Foreign Affairs, Government of Thailand, Mr. Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun, Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Industries, Government of Bangladesh, Mr. Aung Naing 0o, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce, Government of Myanmar, Mr. Ramesh Rizal, Hon’ble Minister of Industry, Commerce & Supplies, Government of Nepal, Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, Hon’ble Minister of Industries, Government of Sri Lanka, Mr. Mahendra P. Lama, Chief Economic Advisor, Government of Sikkim, and Mr. Ameya Prabhu, Sr. Vice President, Indian Chamber of Commerce.

While delivering the welcome address, Mr. Mehul Mohanka, President, Indian Chamber of Commerce, said, “It is a pleasure to welcome all of you to the business conclave this morning. On behalf of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, I express my gratitude to each one of you for taking the time to attend today’s event. Kolkata is a rapidly emerging connected capital for the big region. The city is strategically and physically positioned, with strong ties to the Bay of Bengal, the Himalayas, the Eurasian hinterland, the Indian Ocean region, Southeast Asia, and East Asia. The region is bound together by strong and vibrant cultural ties. It brings together more than 1.7 billion people and has a combined GDP of about $3 trillion. BIMSTEC acts as a vital bridge among member countries, connecting South and Southeast Asia, and expanding trade, the economy, business investments, and cultural connections. Currently, BIMSTEC nations contribute just 5.9% of interregional commerce, whereas Asian countries account for around 24%. By expanding regional trade and investment in crucial sectors, BIMSTEC can play a vital role in progressing the economies and improving the well-being of the people in the region. As a result, it has become critical for BIMSTEC member states to finish and implement the BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible, fostering economic integration and prosperity within the regional grouping. In keeping with India’s East strategy, the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has a specific focus on India’s trade and business links with South and Southeast Asian nations, and has played a vital role in establishing synergy between India and its South Asian and Southeast Asian neighbours. The business conclave was organised to facilitate participation and discussions among businesses from these countries, as well as to explore business opportunities, address challenges, find solutions, and foster the possibility of business tie-ups based on market complementarities. I am hopeful that the three-day long stakeholder meetings would produce positive results.”

Ms. Tashi Wangmo, Secretary, Industry, Commerce and Employment, Government of Bhutan, said, “I am privileged to address you today as we convene here to promote economic relations among the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation member states. I am accompanied by a delegation of 20 Bhutanese business leaders, led by the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industries’ respected president and two vice presidents. This event, which brings together entrepreneurs, politicians, and industry experts from Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, is a wonderful honour for my delegation and myself. This event demonstrates our mutual commitment to regional collaboration and economic progress. Bhutan has been an active participant in the collaborative discussions launched inside the Vincent framework since the beginning of the negotiations. We have continually worked to meet our pledges and obligations, such as implementing three elimination schedules, decreasing the negative list, and carrying out additional responsibilities deriving from the continuing talks. However, considerable work has to be done, notably in terms of improving the facilitating environment among member nations. Despite their geographical closeness and cultural commonalities, member nations’ trade facilitation environments varied greatly. While nations such as India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh are further along in this respect, Nepal and Bhutan lag behind, owing to their landlocked situations. Creating ideas that would work for all seven member nations would undoubtedly be difficult. However, there is a way where there is a will. There is no issue we cannot solve if we join forces and collaborate to build mutually beneficial collaboration.”

Mr. Wanchai Varavithya Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of Thailand, said, “I am ecstatic to see such a huge number of people from diverse nations. This meeting represents the strength of our friendships as well as the potential for new ones to be formed. I’d like to thank the Indian Chamber of Commerce for hosting this event, which allows us to share ideas, identify difficulties, and explore potential to make our economies more successful and sustainable. Furthermore, this event gives a wonderful opportunity for the Bay of Bengal countries to strengthen their commercial and investment ties. We must seize this chance to strengthen economic cooperation and solve the obstacles impeding our trade and investment development and potential. In 2023, our commerce reached $23.5 billion, indicating a 35% rise over the previous year. This represents 4.7% of our overall commerce. To further invigorate our economy, we must focus on encouraging private sector engagement and removing any impediments to trade and investment. Since 2004, the nations of the Bay of Bengal have been negotiating to improve trade and enhance regional integration. These agreements have proved to be a critical instrument for improving our economy, particularly in the face of global economic uncertainty. As a result, we are committed to moving these talks forward in order to realise their full potential. We can expedite commercial activity and create a favourable atmosphere for our private sector to grow by lowering obstacles and streamlining trade procedures. This will help to broader economic development and stimulate further investment.”

Mr. Mahendra P. Lama, Chief Economic Advisor, Government of Sikkim, said, “Today’s proceedings are unique because we have concentrated on developing an innovative and inclusive approach to addressing global challenges. Our goal is to develop an integrated approach that takes into consideration the interests of all participating countries. We experienced certain difficulties along the route, such as political tensions between India and Pakistan. However, I am certain that these difficulties may be solved via constructive debate and teamwork. Our region’s political and economic dynamics are drastically different, with a mix of established and developing countries. As a result, we must adopt a more personalised strategy that takes into account each country’s distinct traits and needs. The numerous governmental structures in existence have slowed the progress of SAARC efforts. Numerous committees and bureaucratic processes have hampered quick decision-making and execution. We must simplify these procedures and equip people with the required knowledge to carry our projects ahead in order to ensure efficiency. Furthermore, we must learn from other places’ experiences, such as Africa and Southeast Asia, where small-scale efforts have had positive results. Instead of adopting a one-size-fits-all strategy, we should concentrate on specialised programmes that capitalise on specific nations’ assets and advantages. Significant progress has been made in infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and connectivity. Our state has developed as a vital link between Southeast Asia and South Asia. This strategic position offers tremendous prospects for collaboration and growth. These causes have all contributed to significant socioeconomic improvement. To improve neglected parts of society, our administration has promoted social inclusion, financial empowerment, and sustainable practices. To promote holistic growth, we have also concentrated on education, skill development, and tourism marketing. We have achieved significant advances in infrastructure, such as the building of industrial parks, the extension of canals, and the establishment of airports. These projects have improved connectivity inside our state as well as connectivity with surrounding nations. Agriculture, as a natural strength of our region, has enormous growth potential. We’ve achieved great strides in agro-processing, organic farming, and research collaborations. We are addressing the medical requirements of our region and nearby nations in the healthcare industry by offering sophisticated facilities and training activities. Educational exchanges, tourist projects, and public-private partnerships have also contributed to regional growth and collaboration.”

Dr. Shashi Panja, Hon’ble Minister of Industry & Commerce, Govt. of West Bengal, said, “We take immense pride in hosting such a magnificent event in our city. I’d like to thank the Indian Chambers of Commerce, particularly Mr. Mehul Mohanka, President, and all the hardworking members who helped plan this event. Their efforts have been extraordinary. This region, in my opinion, has a substantial interest in future development and prosperity. I am glad to declare that Bengal, due to its strategic geographical location, acts as an essential link between Southeast Asia and South Asia. We frequently showcase Bengal’s industrial strength, emphasising the talented workforce and ample human resources available in our state. We have built a robust industry foundation that has achieved remarkable milestones in social and economic development. Our Chief Minister has always prioritised social inclusion, financial empowerment, and gender equality. From empowering women to fostering clean energy adoption, promoting health and well-being, facilitating sustainable industry practices, and ensuring quality education, our focus has been on holistic development. Our state’s strategic position also contributes to international trade, making Bengal an indispensable hub in the region’s transportation network. The government’s commitment to fortify industrial and logistical infrastructure, as well as the proposed development plans, such as the deep-sea port and transportation projects, are game-changers for the entire region. The augmentation of digital connectivity, the booming e-commerce industry, and the promotion of sustainable logistics and energy collaboration all play vital roles in market expansion. Bengal has an abundance of renewable energy sources, including solar and wind energy. We can fulfil rising energy demands while guaranteeing long-term growth by using these resources and developing clean energy initiatives. Agriculture has enormous potential in our state as well. We can harness the full potential of the agricultural sector by developing organic farming, food security, and sustainable farming practices. Medical facilities and research institutions in Bengal serve the expanding medical needs of our state as well as bordering nations like Bangladesh. To ensure competent health services across the area, we can improve healthcare research, training initiatives, and the exchange of best practices. In recent years, the tourist business has grown significantly, bringing people from all around India and beyond. We continue to promote tourism through numerous efforts, ranging from famous names to homestays, while new tourist locations and infrastructure are developed. The neighbouring state of Odisha, with its magnificent coastline, has become a popular destination, and we foresee a similar surge in Bengal. Bengal’s infrastructure development offers immense potential for public-private partnerships. The vast coal mines and the presence of major transportation routes, coupled with policies that promote development and quality, have the capacity to bridge critical gaps in transportation and communication. Leveraging public-private partnerships will expedite infrastructure development and address these challenges effectively.”

H.E. Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Vice Minister, Foreign Affairs, Government of Thailand, said, “I am thrilled to be here in Kolkata, the fast-paced and ancient city ideally placed on the banks of the Ganges River. This forum will surely help to strengthen collaboration and create greater understanding among all of us. The primary goal of our company, which we founded over a quarter century ago, is at the heart of our collaboration. Our goal is to increase trade and investment, strengthen cross-national relationships, and capitalise on the region’s latent potential. We have achieved great progress in a variety of areas in recent years. Our executives embraced the charter last year, making our company more organised and capable of operating successfully. This year, we are working on a number of initiatives to elevate our achievements even further, including the introduction of BEN-TECH 2030, a centrepiece of Thailand’s chairmanship. This vision document outlines our aspiration for a prosperous, resilient, and open organisation by the year 2030. Thailand’s priority is to enhance the role of the private sector in our organisation. While there is already a mechanism in place to involve the private sector, we believe it should be redesigned to provide more opportunities for creativity and meaningful contributions. The time is ripe to facilitate greater interaction between the private sector of member states and BIMSTEC. To this end, Thailand proposes the establishment of the BIMSTEC Business Advisory Council, which will serve as a platform for representatives from the private sector of each member state to engage with one another and actively participate in the BIMSTEC process. Such a mechanism will enable the private sector to offer perspectives and innovative insights, fostering trade and investment cooperation. It will ensure that the collaboration within our organisation responds effectively to the real needs of businesses and people, especially at smaller scales, such as startups and SMEs. As a country at the heart of the connectivity sector in the region, Thailand places great importance on regional interconnectedness. Regional connectivity begins with strong links between Thailand and India. Our ongoing tri-nation highway projects with road linkages spanning over three thousand kilometres exemplify the potential of road connectivity for facilitating trade and bringing people closer together. These projects encompass roads, railways, maritime and inland waterways, civil aviation, and multimodal infrastructure.”

Mr. Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun, Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Industries, Government of Bangladesh, said, “Under the energetic leadership of our prime minister, Bangladesh, in particular, has seen enormous progress and has transformed into a middle-income nation. We have seen significant industrial activity in recent years and have taken decisive initiatives to enhance the economy. Our administration has prioritised fostering a welcoming and investment-friendly climate for companies of all sizes. The effects are clear, with significant industrial growth and expansion. Bangladesh has a competitive economy, cheap labour costs, and an English-speaking workforce that is youthful. Its strategic position in South Asia offers it an excellent investment opportunity. We’ve attracted a lot of investors, including several from India. We have also developed special economic zones to facilitate investment even further. Bangladesh has been an important economic partner for India, but we now have a trade imbalance with them. We are aiming to improve our competitiveness and close the trade imbalance. Despite the hurdles, we nearly doubled our commerce with India in the previous fiscal year, reaching two billion dollars. As a developing country, we continue to encounter constraints. However, we are working hard to stimulate investment in a variety of industries, including infrastructure. Communication and facilitation have improved, making commerce between our countries more efficient. Finally, we have established a solid platform and adopted investment-friendly policies to make Bangladesh an appealing location for international collaborations. We welcome all interested parties to join us in attaining our country’s potential. We can overcome the issues we confront by working together to develop a thriving and sustainable economy. Bangladesh is a place of potential, and we are excited to collaborate with you to build a better future.”

Mr. Aung Naing 0o, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce, Government of Myanmar, said, “In the future, rather than depending entirely on federal areas, we should look at stable working circumstances. This may be accomplished via strategic collaboration and thorough planning. On behalf of the development sector, I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped with disaster relief operations. It’s heartening to witness India’s support during these trying times. Moving on, it’s critical to recognise the relevance of the MacBook present. Let us actively engage in activities that reflect the inspiring spirit of Mumbai, which has a population of six billion people and accounts for 22% of the world’s population. We must prioritise economic and social growth. The Democrats prioritise people’s well-being and are simple to deal with. The fifth summit, which took place in Colombo, Sri Lanka, intended to defuse geopolitical concerns. We must promote cross-sector collaboration in order to solve issues like development, climate change, and food security. Technological innovation and connection are critical for the successful implementation of new projects. South Africa is an excellent example of a developing economy. We should emulate their achievements and encourage similar initiatives. We must involve dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen, when it comes to poverty reduction and climate change. Let us concentrate on measurable results and deliver our efforts with accuracy. It is a priority to improve cross-border connectivity. We may accomplish tremendous development by expanding regional economic links. Furthermore, financial behaviour must be reviewed to guarantee stability. Local currencies should be encouraged, and difficulties of double taxation should be addressed. People-to-people interaction is critical for building connections. Supporting student exchange programmes and tourist efforts would promote cultural understanding as well as economic progress. Finally, communication and cooperation among member nations are critical. We must respect each other’s sovereignty and work towards common goals. Security, peace, and stability are critical to our region’s long-term progress. Thank you everybody for your hard work and encouragement. We can overcome any obstacles and create a great future if we work together.”

Mr. Ramesh Rizal, Hon’ble Minister of Industry, Commerce & Supplies, Government of Nepal, said, “Nepal’s significance as a location with enormous possibilities for enjoyment and discovery. Several schemes have been implemented to promote growth and dynamism in this quickly changing region. I can confidently educate you about the important players involved after connecting with the community. We have actively participated in a variety of growth sectors. Trade, investment, environmental sustainability, and connectivity must all be emphasised. The Free Trade Agreement was signed in 2004 and is now being revised to include other nations. I hope that this programme fosters academic growth and capitalises on chances. Fortunately, our campaign has highlighted the importance of continued collaboration among member nations. It is critical that we display restraint and work together to address important concerns. We must take strategic tactics and activities to successfully tackle comparable difficulties and eliminate current unfavourable opinions. I firmly believe that our current level of engagement will yield valuable outcomes and enhance our reputation. It may be required to adopt innovative tactics and draw on outside resources. Private sector development and public-private partnerships are critical to fostering economic growth and prosperity. We advocate for more cooperation and collaboration between member nations, with an emphasis on enhancing connectivity, encouraging cross-border energy collaborations, and fostering people-to-people connections through cultural exchanges. I am confident that these initiatives will contribute to the general improvement and prosperity of our area. I implore you to accept reality and try to make our common goal a reality. To achieve our goals, we must maintain our support and collaboration. Let us celebrate our accomplishments thus far, and with your continuing dedication and collaboration, we can assure a brighter future for our people.”

Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, Hon’ble Minister of Industries, Government of Sri Lanka, said, “Firstly, I’d like to express my gratitude on behalf of the Sri Lankan government and people for being a part of this memorable event. As an active and founding member, I believe that our collective efforts in this consortium, comprising seven member countries and a diverse group of nations, are driven by a shared goal: we aspire to foster technological advancements and address conflicts, ultimately promoting sustainable development and creating opportunities for the poor. Our consortium’s geographical position, at the core of this lively and resource-rich region, is a fundamental factor in its significance. It acts as a connector for marine commerce and economic activity, offering access to vital resources. We can unleash this region’s enormous potential and develop it into a hub of economic activity for all member states and their people by using our collective resources. We can work together to address diverse difficulties while concentrating on sustainable development and generating opportunity for individuals. It is vital to improve connectivity among member nations, notably in terms of transportation infrastructure and trade facilitation. I must emphasise the importance of my own country’s economic prosperity. The government’s resolve to transform our country’s economic position from undeveloped to developing has been supported through a variety of measures, with investment in the industry serving as the primary tool. Despite the economic difficulties that we encountered along the road, we have seen consistent improvement and expansion. I promise you that the Indian government and people are ready to assist Sri Lanka in the event of a financial disaster. We see the difficulties that our adjacent country is facing and are dedicated to assisting. Finally, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to all participants from India and other countries to come to our country, enjoy our hospitality, and learn about the investment prospects we have.”

While delivering the vote of thanks, Mr. Ameya Prabhu, Sr. Vice President, Indian Chamber of Commerce, said, “I’d like to offer my heartfelt appreciation to all of the participating countries and their representatives. In terms of collaboration and partnership, I believe we should appreciate the huge impact of significant strides. When we look at GDP, we can see that it has stagnated, but it is still quite robust in comparison to other countries. To illustrate, Ethiopia’s nominal GDP is a startling $4.9 billion, yet our country’s budget is $60 trillion. This places us as the world’s fourth-largest economy, and when purchasing power parity (PPP) is included, we rise even higher. The Ministry of Commerce’s mention of this factor is important. It emphasises the need for a strong and secure foundation that protects against future hazards. Maintaining a larger economy is essential for protecting our country’s well-being. For example, we recognise the vital role played by the agriculture industry, which has already received considerable attention. It remains an important aspect of our foreign policy and helps to build partnerships with other countries. Furthermore, it acts as a bridge between nations, encouraging communication and collaboration. We must regard our partnerships with other countries as extensions of our own, establishing deeper bonds and strengthening the road to prosperity. In addition, we intend to improve our agriculture sector by fostering technical developments that can greatly cut prices and boost efficiency. Collaboration with other nations in this sphere, such as Sri Lanka and Israel, has enormous potential. As we confront the problems of climate change and the need for sustainability, we must prioritise these issues. Addressing them straight on will assure a brighter future for future generations. It is critical that we learn from both prior successes and disappointments. Finally, I’d like to convey my appreciation for the chance to participate in the formation of a Big Step Business Advisory Council. It is a tremendous initiative that will surely positively affect our future. Let us not forget that we are the world’s fourth-largest economy, with significant growth potential. We can move ahead together, making a lasting effect on our country and the globe at large. Thank you for your time.”

New Delhi,14 June 2023 Nasscom Foundation’s Women Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Program supported by Google.org has reached more than 1,00,000 rural women to support them in pursuing their entrepreneurial aspirations. The program has covered 18 districts, spread across six states including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar, and Rajasthan.

The initiative has equipped more than 1500 women entrepreneurs to become master trainers who collectively have trained over 20,000 other marginalized women through a cascade model with digital, financial, and entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to leverage digital literacy and generate income opportunities. Additionally, the program’s DigiVaani call center initiative has reached out to more than 90,000 women in rural communities in Northern India. Through mobile-based outreach, these women have been offered guidance and support to leverage digital skills for their businesses and create new avenues to improve their livelihoods.

One of the key benefits of the program has been an increased awareness and access to various government schemes, as 92 percent of the master trainers now have knowledge of these schemes and 61 percent have gone on to avail their benefits. There has also been a significant impact on the adoption of digital payments, with 52 percent of them adopting various digital payment platforms for making business transactions. About 58 percent are currently pursuing entrepreneurship as an outcome of the program, of which 73 percent are now leveraging social media platforms to gain exposure, enhance their skills, and promote their products to reach a wider audience. Moreover, at least 82 percent of the entrepreneurs among the master trainers are now aware of various e-commerce platforms and their uses.

Nidhi Bhasin, CEO, nasscom foundation, said, “Women entrepreneurs in India play a significant role in advancing the country’s economic growth. Empowering women entrepreneurs is not just about providing them with the resources and tools to succeed, it’s about unlocking their potential to drive innovation, create jobs, and transform communities. With the support of Google.org, we have cultivated a powerful ecosystem for women entrepreneurs, equipping them with the skills, networks, and opportunities they need to thrive.”

Marija Ralic, Lead, Google.org APAC, said “We are proud to have supported, through Google.org, the work that nasscom foundation is doing with women entrepreneurs in rural communities, and it’s been heartening to hear so many inspiring stories of these beneficiaries being equipped with the necessary skills, resources and support to unleash their full potential and drive innovation in the digital economy. Thank you to nasscom foundation for helping to foster a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact these women will have on society and the economy.”

Women entrepreneurs are much less represented in the digital economy than men. This gap translates into missed economic opportunities and may also aggravate existing gender inequalities. Launched in 2021, the program was designed to address similar challenges faced by women entrepreneurs by providing them with digital, financial, and entrepreneurship skills that have resulted in increased income and economic independence.

India, 14 June 2023: Recognizing the importance of personal expression and individuality in the sewing process, Usha International has introduced new colour variants of its iconic vintage black Tailor DLX Sewing Machine. From the original classic black to the new colour options, the Tailor DLX enables users to add their touch of personal style and chutzpah to their workspace. The new offering combines exceptional functionality with an aesthetic appeal, catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of sewing enthusiasts.

Versatile, dependable, and sturdy, the Usha Tailor DLX Sewing Machine has been carefully engineered to provide stability and utmost precision while stitching. The machine is accredited by ISI and is now also available in a wide variety of vibrant colours that include Cherry Red, Golden Silver, Cherry Brown, and Pacific Blue.

Usha’s DLX Sewing Machine is ideal for hobbyists, tailors, and retail establishments. The machine’s quiet operation and seamless functions make it the perfect choice for consumers.

The machine redefines easy sewing with its 800 stitches per minute (SPM) sewing speed. Its auto-tripping bobbin winder adds to the convenience and ease of use by automatically stopping after 70% thread fill-up. It also has features like a spring-loaded bobbin winder for uniform bobbin winding and perfect stitch formation and has a lever-type stitch regulator for easy forward and reverses stitch control. Additionally, the machine’s simple presser allows for foot pressure adjustments for specific fabric needs, making it comfortable to operate for the users, while the screw-type pressure adjustment makes it easier for controlling the needle bar pressure.

The Usha Tailor DLX Sewing Machine is built with cast iron and coated with high-quality gloss paint to make it rust-resistant and extend its lifespan further. It is also ISI certified for accuracy and safety, giving users peace of mind when operating the device.

Usha Tailor DLX Sewing Machine comes with a 2-year warranty. The ability to swap out individual pieces makes the machine’s service and maintenance simpler for the customers.

These beautiful vintage pieces are available with other foot variants like X stand and sheet metal stand, and an option to operate with motors. These are priced at INR 5,795 (inclusive of all taxes). Click on the links below to know more:

Bangalore, India, 14th June 2023 – The five-year Mathematics and Science Curriculum Enhancement Project, a collaboration between the Singapore International Foundation (SIF) and Parikrma Humanity Foundation, had a significant impact on education in Bangalore.

Led by Singapore International Volunteers (SIVs) from the education sector, the project aimed to enhance the Mathematics and Science curriculum in Bangalore. The SIVs trained about 160 Indian educators through workshops, equipping them with new skills to create more engaging lessons for their students.

A core group of 46 Indian educators were selected as Master Trainers, who subsequently trained other teachers in their communities. Collectively, about 58,700 educators and students in Karnataka benefitted from this collaboration, ensuring improved access to quality education for children in the community.

Earlier in June, the SIF conducted a project evaluation to measure and analyse the impact of the project. Key findings included:

• · Effective implementation of tools and everyday objects, as teaching aids The educators, are now well-versed in using educational tools and everyday objects to better aid their students’ understanding of abstract concepts. Examples included using a tangram set to form triangles in mathematics lessons and using real flowers to introduce plant parts in science lessons.
• · Greater focus on process skills  The focus of teaching in schools has shifted to hone how students arrive at their answers instead of the memorization of facts. This is supported by lessons planned based on the 5E Model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Extend, Evaluate), and complemented by science experiments and outdoor activities. These approaches engaged students more effectively and encouraged greater inquisitiveness in them.
• · Improved development of critical thinking skills Beyond finding the right answers, students are guided to explore and analyze different solutions to each problem to develop critical thinking skills.
• · Enhanced activity-based learning in groups Where passive learning in silos was the norm previously, students are now engaged through learning in groups. Through group discussions, students practice communication, collaboration and reasoning skills, and collective decision-making, which are core 21st-century competencies.

At the project’s closing ceremony on 5 June, Mr Edgar Pang, Consul-General of the Republic of Singapore in Chennai, said: “This project between the SIF and Parikrma Humanity Foundation is a great example of how lives can be improved when people come together and join hands. I look forward to more of such collaborations between the peoples of Singapore and India across the various sectors.”

Ms Shukla Bose, Founder-CEO, Parikrma Humanity Foundation said: “We are pleased to have worked with the SIF on this initiative. The training-of-trainers approach has ensured that the benefits to our teachers and students will extend well beyond the project. The approach has certainly moved the needle in raising teaching standards here.”

Dr Prem Mario, Principal at Parikrma Junior College said: “We learnt to use objects found in everyday life as interactive props to facilitate mathematics lessons, alongside other teaching techniques like mind-mapping and storytelling. After incorporating them in our classes, our students have been able to understand new concepts better and are more engaged during lessons now.”

He added: “The Singapore volunteers have been very warm and approachable every time we met. Despite travel restrictions during the recent pandemic, we kept in touch virtually and picked up like old friends when we reconnected in person.”

SIV team leader Ms Peggy Foo, former lecturer at Singapore’s National Institute of Early Childhood Development, said: “It was a humbling experience and a privilege to share our insights with the teachers in Bangalore. Their eagerness to learn has been very inspiring. This project has also challenged me to think about how we can better bring the joy of learning to our students and encourage them to be more inquisitive.”

The Mathematics and Science Curriculum Enhancement Project aligns with the Karnataka state government’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goal of ensuring inclusive and quality education for all, including increasing the supply of qualified teachers by 2030 through international cooperation for teacher training.

The initiative also marks a significant milestone for the SIF as it commemorates 28 years of their work in India. Over the years, the SIF has collaborated with various partners from the government, corporate and non-government sectors, in states like Maharashtra, New Delhi, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Through their endeavours in education, healthcare, arts, environment, and livelihood, the SIF fosters connections among people and communities, facilitating collaborations that bring about positive change.

[Beijing, China,14 June 2023] The 5G-Advanced Core Industry Forum — hosted by China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) and co-hosted by Huawei — was held at the China National Convention Center during the 31st PT Expo China. One of the most influential ICT industry events in Asia, PT Expo China gathers thought leaders and specialists from all walks of the telecom industry.

At the Forum, a 5G-Advanced Core promotion initiative was launched by Huawei, together with industry partners, including CAICT, 3GPP, China Mobile, China Telecom, China Unicom, Schneider, Neolix, TD Tech, and SmartSuperV. The group will pool their individual efforts to promote industry consensus and commercial deployment of a new core architecture in the 5G-Advanced era, as well as build an intelligent, convergent core network to connect everything and enable all services, helping implement the industry’s vision of an intelligent world.

launch ceremony

Launch ceremony for the 5G-Advanced Core promotion initiative

To fully unleash the value of 5G and better transition towards 6G, Huawei took the lead in the industry to put forward the concept of 5.5G. In 2021, 3GPP officially designated 5G-Advanced as the second phase of 5G evolution, starting to standardize its components in Release 18. This latest package of 3GPP mobile standards marked a new chapter in the development of 5G technologies and standards around the world. As the engine of telecom networks, the 5G-Advanced Core will drive all service scenarios with comprehensively enhanced network connectivity.

With the rise of 5G-Advanced, new service requirements are emerging. For example, people are expecting videos to shift from 2D to 3D, connections from general-purpose to enhanced and calling from voice and video to intelligent interactions. These needs, in turn, stimulate the growth of new scenarios, content, and applications. To address all of these, the 5G-Advanced Core’s network capabilities will be strengthened comprehensively, especially in terms of adaptive multi-mode connections and fully meshed networking. And with intelligent management of topologies, experiences, and services, the 5G-Advanced Core will enable new video, new connectivity, and new calling services, taking service experiences to new heights and fueling the digital transformation of numerous industries.

The initiative calls upon all communications standards organizations, operators, network equipment vendors, terminal and chip manufacturers, and other industry stakeholders over the world to think, innovate, and grow together. In this way, we can jointly push forward the evolution of the core network architecture and connectivity, promote the sustainable development of the 5G-Advanced Core industry, and create better value for both individuals and industries.

As Leo Ma, President of Huawei Cloud Core Network Marketing Dept., noted at the event, “The evolution of 5G-Advanced has reached a critical juncture, at which the construction and development of the core network are absolutely essential. The 5G-Advanced Core will unlock more and more services and experiences, as well as stimulating innovation with enhanced capabilities and connectivity. Huawei is committed to creating new value for the industry, helping all industry players seize business opportunities and fully embrace the new intelligent world.”

5G-Advanced will undoubtedly present tremendous possibilities; however, we cannot achieve it overnight. Huawei will continue to work with industry partners. Together, let’s promote the development of the 5G-Advanced Core at a well-planned pace, fully unleash the value of 5G, and chart a course on our voyage to the intelligent world.

New Delhi, 14 June 2023: Cutting-edge AI tools are poised to revolutionize the field of education. These ground-breaking tools, developed by Lalit Sachan, Co-founder of Edvancer Eduventures and an expert in artificial intelligence, harness the power of artificial intelligence to enhance learning experiences and provide students with innovative solutions to their academic needs.

One of the key advancements in AI technology by Lalit is the implementation of transformed-based models, enabling the creation of ultra-realistic voice clones. This breakthrough allows for the generation of audio for any text within seconds, utilizing a cloned voice. Moreover, this cloned audio can seamlessly superimpose on a random sample of videos with the assistance of another visual generative AI model, resulting in the creation of captivating educational videos.

In addition to these remarkable advancements, Lalit is actively working on several other AI tools that are set to transform the educational landscape. Among the upcoming tools are intelligent chatbots designed to provide students with academic support grounded in reality, citing credible sources. These chatbots offer personalized assistance and effectively address students’ queries, ensuring a productive learning experience.

The AI expert is also developing conversational agents and context-driven content-generation tools. These innovations will facilitate interactive and engaging interactions with students, adapting content to their specific needs and learning contexts. By tailoring educational materials to individual requirements, Edvancer aims to enhance comprehension and knowledge retention.

“We are proud to introduce these ground-breaking AI tools that will change the face of education,” said Lalit Sachan, Co-founder of Edvancer. “Our focus is on providing students with cutting-edge technologies that enable them to learn more effectively and efficiently. With these AI tools, we are confident that we can offer students an unparalleled educational experience.”

Among the tools currently being developed, one notable example is a content creation tool that allows for the production of high-quality videos without the need for traditional recording and editing processes. This tool streamlines the content creation process, enabling educators to keep pace with the rapidly evolving education landscape. While the exact launch timeline has yet to be determined, Lalit aims to release this tool in the near future.

Another remarkable tool being prepared for launch is an AI-powered tutor bot. This tutor bot will offer students direct answers to their questions without the need to navigate through extensive materials. It will be available 24/7 for multiple courses, providing comprehensive support for enrolled students.

Additionally, Mr. Lalit Sachan and his team are testing an innovative tool that enables students to simulate mock interviews. The AI-driven bot will ask interview-related questions and assess students’ responses, providing valuable feedback on how to improve their answers and pointing out any mistakes made. This tool empowers students to enhance their interview skills and prepare for various job roles or profiles.

K.H. Muniyappa, Hon’ble Minister for Food & Civil Supplies urged people and food industries to work towards ensuring zero food wastage.

Speaking after three days much-anticipated three-day World of Hospitality Expo at the city’s Palace grounds on Tuesday, he stated that we can eliminate hunger in the country if we are able to bring down food waste wastage.

Assuring more pro-hospitality and tourism-friendly initiatives to boost the state economy he observed that the tourism and hospitality sectors have huge potential to create jobs locally besides valuable revenue to the state exchequer.

He pointed out that these two sectors are important to overcome the aftermath effects of Covid 19 induced challenges.

This three-day event serves as a perfect platform to connect hospitality professionals to new products and services in the industry. Apart from the renowned Incredible Chef Challenge (ICC), the three-day event will host numerous talks and sessions decoding some latest trends and unveiling new technologies that are transforming the hospitality sector.

“I am delighted to be part of South India’s biggest HoReCa business event World of Hospitality Expo in Namma Bengaluru. Now that we have put the pandemic behind us, it is time to look at consolidating growth and taking the industry to the next level,” he said.

“The Karnataka government wants the wheels of economy to pick up momentum and, World of Hospitality is doing a great job by offering this platform to bring together buyers and sellers,” he said.

“Tourism and hospitality sectors are, in the real sense, drive the growth of the socio-economic fabric of our society and augur development multidimensionally,” he said. He also stated that Bengaluru in particular and Karnataka in general has a huge potential in this sector.

He also stressed the sector leaders to focus on the food hygiene. “There have been several instances in the past that food adulteration has come to light from the hospitality industry, especially small hotel players, and even popular restaurants. Government mechanism is in place to regularly conduct surprise checks and monitoring; however, the onus must be with the owners. They need to take a far greater responsibility to ensure that the hygiene and quality of food offered to guests is uncompromisable. Quality will draw in profits,” he concluded.

He assured that the state government will support the tourism and hospitality sector to achieve new milestones in Karnataka.

Mumbai, 14th June 2023: iThink Logistics, an end-to-end multiple courier aggregator shipping platform for D2C Brands which services to 26,000+ pin codes in India announced the release of its new dashboard feature, ‘Dark Mode’ which offers users the option to switch between a white background and a dark background interface. The update has been rolled out by the company on the platform and it’s live for all the customers and other visitors on the platform.

This new update not only keeps up with the latest trend but also aims to enhance users’ lives and well-being. One of the key benefits of this update is improved readability. By switching to dark mode, users can reduce the amount of light emitted, alleviate eye strain, and reduce screen glare, which can be distracting, allowing them to stay focused on their tasks. This will particularly benefit users who spend extended periods of time using the iThink dashboard. The dark mode further offers additional health benefits which include a reduction in the occurrence of headaches and minimize the impact of blue light on the skin. By reducing blue light emission, dark mode aligns with the natural cues our bodies rely on for sleep, ultimately improving the overall quality of sleep for users. Studies have consistently shown that sleeping in a dark environment promotes better sleep patterns.

The colors and visual elements pop out, which makes it easier for the users to distinguish between different elements on the screen. This enhances the contrast look and provides a better user experience. Research conducted by PhoneBuff among iPhone users showed that those who used dark mode were able to play a video for 20 hours, compared to just 15 hours on light mode. This highlights the potential benefits of dark mode in terms of extending device usage without discomfort.

Company is thrilled to provide its users with the option to choose dark mode, as it offers a more visually comfortable experience, reduces eye strain, potentially extends device usage, and even contributes to better sleep quality. iThink Logistics believes that this update will ‘greatly enhance our users’ experience and overall well-being.

New Delhi,14 June 2023: Zeon Lifesciences, the leading manufacturer of nutraceutical and herbal products across the globe is delighted to announce a significant breakthrough in the manufacturing process of probiotics, utilizing the latest Intelicaps technology.

Zeon has redefined the way probiotics are manufactured, ensuring improved viability and effectiveness. Probiotics have long been acknowledged for their health benefits and utilizing the latest Intelicaps technology, Zeon Lifesciences has overcome major hurdles in its manufacturing process by encapsulating live bacteria in a protective casing. This exceptional technique ensures the survival and delivery of probiotics to their intended destination within the body, boosting their efficacy.

Intelicaps have been integrated into Zeon’s manufacturing process, establishing a new industry standard in probiotic manufacturing. The technology also works as a shield against external factors such as heat, moisture, and acidity, which can compromise the integrity of live bacteria.

As a result, Zeon’s probiotic formulations retain their potency and remain viable until consumed, offering numerous benefits to consumers.

A distinctive milestone

This significant achievement sets Zeon Lifesciences apart as the one-of-a-kind player in the industry to harness the immense potential of Intelicaps, positioning it at the vanguard of probiotic manufacturing. By leveraging this ground-breaking technology, Zeon Lifesciences has also secured its position as the undisputed pioneer in technology advancement, surpassing all competitors and establishing an outstanding benchmark in the field.

‘’We are elated to unveil our revolutionary accomplishments in probiotic manufacturing, framing new standards for effectiveness. With the integration of Intelicaps technology, we have mitigated the obstacles that hindered the potential of probiotics, ensuring their optimal impact on health. Furthermore, it gives us immense pleasure to announce that Zeon Lifesciences is the solitary player in the industry that has embraced and effectively employed this one-of-a-kind technological marvel that will disrupt the probiotic industry,’’ said Mr. Suresh Garg, CMD and Founder, Zeon Lifesciences Ltd.

Recently, Zeon Lifesciences announced its expansion into India’s pet wellness industry with the unveiling of an industry-leading product line, dedicated to veterinary nutrition. The comprehensive product range focuses on various aspects of pet health, including general wellness, bone and joint health, as well as skin and coat health and is conveniently available in powder, spray, and liquid oral formats, offering flexibility for pet owners.

Brigade Foundation a not-for-profit initiative of Brigade Group is pleased to announce the setting up of 2 not-for-profit, 100-bed hospitals in association with the well-known St John’s Medical College Hospital. The hospitals will come up at Brigade Group’s integrated housing projects Brigade Meadows – a 60-acre development with 3000 completed and occupied apartments on Kanakapura Road next to The Art of Living; and at Brigade EL-Dorado, a 50-acre development with nearly 6000 apartments at AeroPark/ Hardware Park in North Bangalore. The hospitals are expected to be operational in calendar years 2024 and 2025, respectively.

Commenting on the initiative, M R Jaishankar, Executive Chairman, Brigade Enterprises Limited said, “Brigade is happy to announce these corporate philanthropic initiatives in the field of healthcare to benefit the neighbourhood apart from thousands of residents in our projects.”

Rev. Dr. Paul Parathazham, the Director of St. John’s Medical College and Hospital said, “St. John’s is very happy to partner with the Brigade Foundation in setting up 2 new 100-bed St. John’s Medical College Hospitals in the Brigade Housing Projects at Brigade Meadows and EL-Dorado. These 2 Not-for-Profit hospitals will help St. Johns expand its services to other parts of the City of Bangalore and take forward its mission to deliver affordable healthcare, especially to the underserved, with integrity, compassion and excellence.”