Archives November 2023

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India sells 4,92,884 units in October’23, Records 10 Percent YoY growth

honda

Gurugram, 2nd November 2023: Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) today announced its sales numbers for October’23. Registering a growth of 10% over October’22, HMSI sold a total of 4,92,884 units in the same month this year. While the company recorded 9% growth in the domestic market with 4,62,747 units, the exports grew by 29% with 30,137 units in October 2023.

Key Highlights of October 2023:

Ø Corporate: HMSI announced its remarkable feat of crossing 30 Lac customer milestone solidifying its position as a trusted and preferred choice for two-wheeler enthusiasts in the state of Kerala. Additionally, Honda’s Brand ‘Shine’ in the 125cc motorcycle segment crossed over 30 Lac customers in western India.

Ø Product: HMSI introduced the OBD2A compliant 2023 CB300R and new avatars of H’ness CB350 & CB350RS in Legacy Edition and New Hue Edition respectively. The company also launched the all-new internationally acclaimed adventure tourer ‘XL750 Transalp’ and announced its bookings open for the first 100 customers at HMSI’s exclusive BigWing Topline dealerships.

Ø BigWing Network Expansion: Elevating the #GoRidin spirit, HMSI inaugurated BigWing in Kadapa (Andhra Pradesh), Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and Bengaluru (Karnataka).

Ø Road Safety: Expanding road safety awareness in India, HMSI conducted awareness campaigns in nine cities across India – Dhanbad (Jharkhand), Gudivada (Andhra Pradesh), Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Jodhpur (Rajasthan), Nagpur (Maharashtra), Patiala (Punjab), Rajkot (Gujarat), Thrissur (Kerala) and Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh). The company also celebrated its 6th anniversary of Traffic Training Park in Karnal (Haryana) and 3rd anniversary of Safety Driving Education Centre (SDEC) in Bangalore (Karnataka).

Ø CSR: To support the community by facilitating training to the economically weaker youth of the society and to develop a sustainable society, Honda India Foundation (HIF) completed first batch of GDA training under its flagship program Project Pragati (One Step towards Growth) in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Ø Motorsports: Displaying exceptional racing prowess, Kavin Quintal clinched the first position in the final race of 2023 season of IDEMITSU Honda Indian Talent Cup NSF250R at the Madras International Circuit in Chennai, securing a double victory in the round. Johann Emmanuel and Mohsin P secured second and third position, respectively.

Minosha Launches Customer Experience Centre, Premieres RICOH’s Production Printer Models

Minosha Launches Customer Experience Centre

Mumbai, 2nd November 2023 In a world where business success hinges on adaptability and innovation, Minosha India Ltd. proudly introduces the RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500, the digital color press designed for today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities. This next-generation system empowers businesses to reach new heights with its advanced technologies, automation, and top-notch quality. These launches coincide with the inauguration of the Minosha Customer Experience Centre, which serves as a hub for customers to gain in-depth knowledge about these products and engage in live testing of various applications that they intend to explore using the new offerings. The state-of-the-art design of the Customer Experience Centre is equipped with all the necessary facilities to allow visitors to fully experience the features of these machines.

Sharing his views on the occasion, Mr. Atul Thakker, Managing Director – Minosha India Ltd, said, “At the brink of a transformative printing era, the RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500 aren’t just printers; they’re investments in your business’s future. Minosha India Ltd. and RICOH are thrilled to introduce products that revolutionize your printing, elevating efficiency and quality. They’re your gateway to pioneering excellence in a dynamic business landscape, propelling you ahead of the curve. With these innovations, you’re investing in the resilience of your business, and we’re excited to be part of this transformative journey with you.”

Mr. Koji Miyao, President, Ricoh Graphic Communications BU Corporate Officer, Ricoh Company, Ltd. commented, “Our partnership with Minosha reflects our shared commitment to innovation and excellence. The RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500 represent a transformative leap in printing technology, offering businesses the tools they need to succeed in today’s ever-changing landscape. With Minosha, we’re excited to empower enterprises with next-gen capabilities, exceptional quality, and a clear path to future success. Together, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of digital printing, ensuring our customers stay ahead of the curve.”

Unleashing advanced technologies for success

The RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500 are more than just presses; they are state-of-the-art systems that leverage advanced technologies to take your business to the next level. Built on a solid foundation, these systems offer automation, predictability, and quality that are unmatched in the industry.

With a robust and user-friendly print controller, you can boost your productivity and efficiency. The RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500 support a wide range of media, from 40 GSM to 470 GSM, enabling you to print any application for any digital printing segment. The new series also features built-in technologies that ensure consistent colour and superior quality to meet your customer needs.

These innovative presses deliver precise front-to-back registration with any media type. They can handle high monthly volumes of up to 1,000,000 pages and 2,40,000 pages respectively, with remarkable auto duplex and perfecting capabilities up to 470 GSM. You can reduce the need for constant operator intervention and increase your uptime.

Scalable, affordable, and highly intelligent

The RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500 are the solutions to your most pressing challenges in an ever-evolving business landscape. They help you overcome labor shortages by attracting a new generation of press operators. They also enable you to transition from offset to digital without compromising quality, even in the most demanding production environments. These dynamic machines open up new opportunities for you to expand into high-margin segments like packaging and Offset, ensuring profitability despite shorter runs.

Relentless performance for remarkable results

The RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500 stand out with their relentless capabilities in a world where performance matters. The RICOH Pro C9500 achieves speeds of up to 135 pages per minute (115 ppm is standard), while the RICOH Pro C7500 achieves speeds of up to 95 pages per minute (85 ppm is standard), setting new standards for efficiency.

You can replace toner while the machine is in operation and enjoy an impressive 18,100-sheet maximum paper capacity on the RICOH Pro C9500, ensuring that your business never has to wait on a technician. You can also perform preventive maintenance with minimal disruption using the Trained Customer Replaceable Units (TCRU) option.

Work smarter from end to end

The RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500 lead the way when it comes to predictability and repeatability. The all-new Fiery® N-70 Controller and Fiery® N-50 Controller series with the latest Digital Front End, based on Fiery and Ricoh technology, enable you to tackle more extensive and complex files faster. These presses are not just about printing; they are about maximizing daily output.

Best-in-class media support for business expansion

The RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500’s unparalleled media support empower your business to embrace a broader range of creative applications. These presses can handle it all, whether it’s flyers, direct mail, promotional materials, packaging, catalogs, photo books, or point-of-purchase displays. With support for thin-to-thick paper, synthetic, and specialty substrates, you can maintain a continuous job flow without any production slowdowns. These new series come with innovative technologies that ensure the machine productivity is maintained at all times even while using mixed media.

Inline finishing for efficiency

The RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500 offer in-house finishing solutions that save money and provide greater control over your projects. You can confidently produce high-quality saddle-stitched booklets, ring-bound books, and folded direct mail efficiently and affordably. Automation ensures fewer steps, fewer manual errors, and faster turnaround times.

A simplified user experience

Minosha is committed to providing an intuitive and highly intelligent experience for operators of all skill levels. The RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500’s automated features enable even a new generation of operators to succeed with the system’s most advanced capabilities at their disposal. The new and embedded Graphic controller supports a highly synchronized remote diagnosis system, enabling remote service and ensuring the smooth operation of your business.

Services that pave new pathways to success

Minosha’s commitment to a business’s success extends beyond the product itself. From operator training to finishing solutions, business development, and G7 certification, their professional services teams, with real-world experience, ensure that your journey with the RICOH Pro C9500 and RICOH Pro C7500 is smooth from the very beginning. Minosha and RICOH are single-source partners, dedicated to helping you maximize your investment and develop a deeper customer base.

Asia’s Biggest Bollywood Music Festival Bollywood Music Project is here in Mumbai, at Jio World Garden on November 3rd & 4th 2023

Bollywood Music Festival Bollywood Music

2nd November 2023:The 6th Edition of Hungama and Eva Live presents Danube Properties Bollywood Music Project (BMP), Asia’s Biggest Bollywood Music Festival, will take place on November 3rd and 4th at Jio World Garden, Mumbai, starting at 3:00 pm.The festival features over 40 artists and promises a grand comeback, offering live Bollywood music.

The star performers of the evening will be Vishal & Shekhar, Farhan Akhtar, Badshah, and Nucleya, who will create a memorable musical experience for the audience. Rockstar DSP, Ankit Tiwari, Benny Dayal, Nikhita Gandhi and Srushti Tawade will bring their enthusiastic energy on the stage. While, musical sensations like Madhur Sharma, Sushant Divgikar, and Dino James promise an unforgettable performance.

Event: Bollywood Music Project
Where: Jio World Garden, BKC, Mumbai
When: 03rd and 04th November 2023

Womeki – Revolutionizing India’s Business Landscape with Vision, Trust, and Innovation

New Delhi, 2nd Nov 2023 – In the heart of India’s evolving business landscape, a remarkable name has been gaining prominence since 2021 – Womeki. The company’s vision goes beyond profits. It aims to change mindsets and rebuild trust, confidence, and respect, values that many feel have dwindled over the years.

Specializing in premier commercial properties, including desirable office and retail spaces in Delhi NCR and major cities, Womeki is committed to not just facilitating investments but fulfilling dreams and rekindling trust. In the face of these challenging times, WOMEKI maintains its focus on offering innovative and sustainable solutions to its clients. The company’s vision transcends borders, with an unwavering dedication to serving every sector, be it education, real estate, project development, hospitality, or IT. WOMEKI’s commitment to fostering young talent, promoting business ethics, and delivering results that simplify and enhance the lives of its clients remains unshaken.

As global giants navigate uncertainty and the potential impact on their operations, WOMEKI’s vision for a brighter future continues to shine. The company’s tagline, “Wo-Men-Kids,” symbolizes its inclusive approach, welcoming individuals and families from all walks of life.

In a world marked by challenges, WOMEKI’s enduring commitment to innovation, trust, and excellence sets it apart as a pioneering force in India’s business landscape. As businesses adapt to the ever-changing environment, WOMEKI remains a steadfast partner, dedicated to transforming lives and redefining success.

As the Indian real estate market experiences a surge in demand, WOMEKI continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape. The third quarter of 2023 has defied the typical monsoon season slowdown, witnessing a substantial increase in annual sales, with 1, 20,280 housing units sold in India’s top seven cities.

WOMEKI’s influence extends to this thriving market, particularly in the mid-range housing segment priced between Rs 40 lakh and Rs 80 lakh, which has remained the most popular choice among buyers, accounting for 28 percent of the total new supply. Additionally, the luxury segment (homes priced above Rs 1.5 crore) and the premium segment (Rs 80 lakh to Rs 1.5 crore) closely follow, each with a 27 percent share of the market.

Mr. Gaurav

Mr. Gaurav Tonger, Founder and Managing Director of Womeki Group, stated, “We are proud to be a part of India’s real estate landscape during this transformative period. Womeki Group remains dedicated to pioneering real estate development in Delhi NCR, providing our clients with innovative, sustainable, and highly valuable properties.”

WOMEKI’s expertise in education, real estate, project development, hospitality, and IT positions it as a key player in the digitization efforts. The company’s focus on excellence, innovation, and transparency resonates with the government’s drive for modernization.

Womeki’s wings span across various sectors, including education, real estate, project development, hospitality, and IT. Their journey is driven by a vision of excellence, innovation, and transparency. They are dedicated to delivering results that make life easier and more efficient for their clients.

ICICI Bank opens a branch at Domestic Tariff Area in GIFT City

ICICI Bank

Gandhinagar: ICICI Bank has set up a branch in the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) in GIFT City, becoming the first private sector bank to commence operations in DTA. Housed at World Trade Centre (WTC) – GIFT City, the branch is also equipped with an ATM-cum-Cash Recycler Machine (CRM) to offer cash deposit and withdrawal services to customers. The Bank aims to serve the financial requirements of retail customers as well as institutions like schools, hospitals, companies and their employees living and operating in the DTA area of GIFT City.

Mr. Tapan Ray, Managing Director and Group CEO, of GIFT City inaugurated the branch in the presence of Mr. Rakesh Jha, Executive Director, of ICICI Bank.

Mr. Tapan Ray, Managing Director and Group CEO, GIFT City, said, “We welcome ICICI Bank for being the first private sector bank to open its retail branch in the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) of GIFT City. I am sure the Bank will serve the needs of corporates and people working/ residing within GIFT City, living up to the high standards of service delivery, making the ecosystem at GIFT City even more vibrant.”

Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Rakesh Jha, Executive Director, ICICI Bank said, “We are delighted to announce the launch of our new branch in the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) of GIFT City. GIFT City plays an important role as it has become a gateway for Indian businesses to connect with the world and global businesses to participate in India’s fast-growing economy.

We have been offering banking solutions for corporate banking, capital markets, treasury, NRI banking, and the start-up ecosystem through our branch in IFSC GIFT City since 2016. The new branch in DTA complements the IFSC branch by serving the banking needs of the entire ecosystem of the GIFT City. It includes personal banking requirement of people working in GIFT City as well as transaction banking needs of various businesses in the ecosystem.”

The branch offers Special Non-Resident Rupee Account (SNRR) services for business entities registered in IFSC SEZ area. This account provides IFSC entities with seamless INR banking solutions like staff salary, office and administrative expenses of office set-up and, any statutory dues in India. Further, ICICI Bank provides such entities with corporate internet banking platform and InstaBIZ app for transactions and account related inquiries on the move.

The branch also provides a comprehensive range of accounts, including savings and current accounts, trade and forex services, fixed and recurring deposits, loans- business loan, home loan, personal loan and auto loan, along with remittance and card services. The branch further offers Tab Banking facility that provides nearly 100 services at the customer’s place by an employee through a tablet device, including digital opening of an account. Additionally, the branch provides banking services to NRI customers. It operates from 9:30 A.M to 3:00 P.M on Monday to Friday and on the first, third, and fifth Saturdays of the month.

ICICI Bank has a network of about 470 branches and 1,185 ATMs and cash recycling machines (CRMs) in Gujarat.

ICICI Bank services its large customer base through a multi-channel delivery network of branches, ATMs, call centres, internet banking (www.icicibank.com), and mobile banking.

News18 Kerala’s ‘Malayali of the Year 2023’ Awards Recognize Kerala’s Brightest Stars

Malayali of the Year 2023

2nd November 2023: News18 Kerala is pleased to announce the grand celebration of the ‘Malayali of the Year 2023’ awards, an event dedicated to honoring the extraordinary contributions of individuals and organizations from the vibrant state of Kerala. The event is scheduled to take place at the luxurious Grand Hyatt in Trivandrum on November 2nd, 2023

News18 Kerala’s ‘Malayali of the Year’ award seeks to recognize people whose steadfast dedication has not only strengthened the foundation of our beloved state but has also propelled Kerala to new heights. The event will honor the dynamic and powerful individuals who have dedicated their lives to making Kerala a better and stronger state, and thereby making India a greater nation.

This year’s ceremony promises to be a star-studded affair with an impressive guest list. These renowned figures have made significant contributions to Kerala’s cultural and social landscape. The esteemed guests gracing the event include Actress Revathi; Singer K S Chithra; M.A Yusuf Ali – Lulu Group, Singer M.G. Sreekumar, and many more

The News18 Kerala ‘Malayali of the Year’ winners are divided into nine categories: Literature; Sports; Traditional Malayali Brand; Music Icons; Malayali Voice; Cultural Icons; Inspirational Women; Global Malayali and Malayali of the Year

The presence of the honorable Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, will be the event’s highlight. His participation exemplifies the state’s commitment to recognizing and appreciating the outstanding efforts of those who have made Kerala proud. The News18 Kerala ‘Malayali of the Year 2023’ awards ceremony is set to be an unforgettable evening, showcasing the resilience, creativity, and spirit of Kerala.

Dr. Batra’s set to redefine holistic wellness with the launch of Nutrigood Gummies

 Nutrigood Gummies

Mumbai, 2nd November 2023 On a mission to offer holistic and natural remedies for prevalent health issues, Dr. Batra’s®, a renowned figure in the field of homeopathy, has introduced the all-new Nutrigood Gummies line. The gummies were meticulously produced to redefine the way to well-being. Dr. Batra’s® offers four gummy versions that address hair, skin, stress, anxiety and sleep.

The ultimate solution for hair health, Nutrigood Gummies provide a 100% recommended daily allowance (RDA) of hair essential vitamins, including Vitamin A, B6, B7 (Biotin), B12, D2, and E. Grape seed extract, known for its antioxidant properties, plays a crucial role in the battle against hair thinning and loss. These essential vitamins are carefully selected to strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and promote healthy growth. Vitamin B6 adds volume to your hair and stimulates growth, while Vitamin D2 triggers hair follicles to flourish. Vitamin E, vital for a healthy scalp and hair, ensures that your locks stay lustrous.

For radiant skin transformation, Nutrigood Gummies provide a 100% recommended daily allowance (RDA) of essential skin vitamins, including Vitamin C, B5, B6, B7 (biotin), and B12. Green tea, which is high in antibacterial compounds, protects the epidermis from free radicals caused by environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution while also enhancing skin suppleness. Gotu Kola and Glutathione perform their magic by promoting collagen development, keeping skin tight and youthful, and aiding in wrinkle reduction, collagen production, and skin lightening. Hyaluronic acid adds to the equation by increasing skin moisture, while Vitamin C brightens skin, treats hyperpigmentation, and reduces fine lines. Biotin (Vitamin B7) works wonders by improving skin hydration and overall appearance.

Nutrigood Gummies for stress and anxiety contain Ashwagandha, which offers a powerful ally in reducing anxiety and stress. Chamomile is a calming force to be reckoned with, reducing anxiety and stress and fostering inner peace. Gotu Kola contributes to its potential relaxing and anti-anxiety effects, and Brahmi fortifies the body’s resistance to stress. Valerian root extract steps in to alleviate feelings of anxiety and usher in an enduring sense of tranquility. Finally, by helping to regulate the sleep cycle, gummies ensure that an individual can truly rest and rejuvenate.

For those struggling with sleep issues, Dr. Batra’s Melatonin Sleep Gummies are a go-to solution. With natural ingredients like Chamomile, Valerian root extract, and L-Theanine, these gummies effectively regulate the sleep-wake cycle, helping to achieve deep and undisturbed rest. They are non-habit-forming, suitable for both men and women, and contain no added sugar, making them a healthy choice.

Commenting on the launch Padma Shri Recipient Dr Mukesh Batra, Founder, and Chairman, Dr. Batra’s Group of Companies said, “Bringing the wisdom of Homeopathy into the modern world, we are thrilled to introduce our new range of Nutrigood Gummies. Rooted in tradition and committed to holistic wellness, these gummies make well-being both effective and enjoyable. Our hearts are brimming with excitement as we bridge the gap between centuries of wisdom and the pace of modern living, creating a perfect blend of the past and present. Our gummies are suitable for both men and women, contain no added sugar, are gluten and soy-free, and include zinc to aid in hair, skin and welcome inner peace into your life with Nutrigood Gummies.”

“Inspired by the profound potential of Homeopathy to empower individuals in harnessing their body’s natural healing capabilities, our Nutrigood Gummies extend an open invitation to all. They encourage the incorporation of health as an essential and joyous aspect of daily life, where every delightful gummy becomes a celebration of well-being.”, he added.

Dr Batra’s Nutrigood Gummies will be available for purchase on the official Dr. Batra’s product website and Amazon.

IndiaFirst Life Becomes the First Indian Life Insurance Company to Receive the GIFT City IFSC Registration

Mumbai, 2nd November 2023 IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Ltd (IndiaFirst Life), one of India’s fastest growing private life insurers in the country, has become the first Indian life insurance company to receive the registration to undertake life insurance business in the Gujarat International Finance Tec (GIFT) City International Financial Services Centre (IFSC).

, Rushabh Gandhi,

Elated on obtaining the registration, Rushabh Gandhi, Deputy CEO, IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Ltd, said, “IndiaFirst Life is proud to be the first Indian life insurance company to receive the GIFT City IFSC registration. We aim to enhance our market presence and capitalize on the customer outreach opportunities at a global level. IndiaFirst Life’s foray into the hi-tech and ultra-modern financial ecosystem of GIFT City IFSC, will empower us to secure lives and create value for our international customers, particularly NRIs (non-resident Indians) banking with our partner banks – Bank of Baroda and Union Bank of India.”

After receiving the go-ahead from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) in August 2023, it received the registration from International Financial Services Centre Authority (IFSCA) in September 2023. The registration will enable IndiaFirst Life to expand its reach globally. The organization has secured a designated office space in the GIFT City and is all geared to embark on the journey once the necessary formalities are in place.

GIFT City IFSC, positioned as India’s international finance gateway, aims to be a global financial and technology hub, driving reforms to support and expand businesses. It presents an ecosystem for crucial economic activities with globally benchmarked regulations, taxation, policies, and more, supported by Govt. of India.

The much-awaited Sharman Joshi and Annu Kapoor starrer ‘Sab Moh Maaya Hai’ to premiere Sabse Pehle TV Par on Zee Anmol Cinema

Sharman Joshi and Annu Kapoor

Zee Anmol Cinema, with its brand promise, ‘Aapki Family Ka Cinema Hall’, has, continually, delivered top-notch movie entertainment that resonates with audiences across the country. Their commitment to bringing fresh content along, with their efforts to provide captivating experiences has firmly established them as the go-to destination for families. Taking another leap in that direction, the channel has just dropped the trailer of the much-awaited Sharman Joshi and Annu Kapoor starrer ‘Sab Moh Maaya Hai’, which the audience can enjoy from the comfort of their homes.

Produced by Vinod Bhanushali, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Deepak Diwan and Sampat Singh Rathore, ‘Sab Moh Maaya Hai’ is directed by debutante Abhinav Pareek and will premiere sabse pehle TV par on Zee Anmol Cinema on 18th November. Going beyond the trend of movies coming to theatres or OTT, Zee Anmol Cinema aims to bring the magic of cinema to television screens with this film.

Sab Moh Maaya Hai is a refreshing take on the ups and downs of life, job struggles, and the special bond between a father and son. Sharman Joshi plays the role of a man desperate to find a government job. On the other hand, the versatile Annu Kapoor essays the character of a government employee on the cusp of retirement.

Sharman Joshi said, “This film is special in so many ways. It’s a blend of humor and sentiment that is bound to strike a chord with the audience. ‘Sab Moh Maaya Hai’ touches on the harsh reality of unemployment and the lengths a person can go to secure a government job. My character embodies the struggles and desperation many faces in their pursuit of employment. But ultimately, it’s a heartwarming tale of redemption, realizing the value of family, and the lessons we learn along the way, all wrapped in a humorous package”

Annu Kapoor said, “As an actor, I have played the role of a father several times but this is something very different. The film delves into the complexities of a father-son relationship, portraying the love, the conflict, and the sacrifices that come with it. It’s a story that resonates with many, and my character, the father, is a reflection of the unspoken love that parents have for their children.”

Director Abhinav Pareek said, “’Sab Moh Maaya Hai’ is my debut and it was nothing short of incredible. The film explores the quirks of human relationships and the evergreen theme of family love. I wanted to create a narrative that not only entertains but also makes the audience reflect on the choices we make in our lives, especially in the context of family. The film’s balance of humor and poignancy makes it a unique experience, and I’m thrilled the release will offer a wider audience the chance to connect with the story.”

Ram Naresh Mishra, a humble peon on the brink of retirement, dreams of a government job for his son, Piyush. An insurance agent, Piyush struggles to secure any civil post. Their daily clashes over this hunt reveals their deep-rooted frustrations. The story takes a turn when Piyush learns of his friend Raju’s unexplainable government job through the ‘Anukampa Yojana’. Piyush puts forward a shocking idea asking his father to die in order to get his job. This raises the temperature for Mishra ji, he eventually agrees but with a wager; putting forward his desire to have his “terahvi” before his actual death. What follows is a series of humorous yet realistic take on the struggles & bonding of this middle-class family.

Ek Kadam Aur Global Conference brings out a host of opportunities to combat visual impairment

Ek Kadam Aur Global Conference

New Delhi, 2nd November 2023 The transformation-driving conference on “Prevention and Treatment of Visual Challenges and Educating Children and Adults with Blindness”, organized by the nonprofit organization Ek Kadam Aur Foundation (EKAF) had been an insightful event fostering awareness on visual imparities and the immediate need to address the issue with a holistic approach. The conference organized on 30 to 31 October at the Shangri-La Hotel at Connaught Place of New Delhi effectively promoted awareness on challenges related to visual impairment, amidst the presence of experts from India, Australia, Mauritius, Ireland, and the US.

During the two-day conference, EKAF hosted professionals from the fields of ophthalmology, optometry, education, technology, and rehabilitation. The grand event witnessed the vibrant presence of over 200 change makers, including experts from medical, education, nonprofit, research, pharmaceutical, corporate, and government departments.

The experts’ deliberations on the core issues of the conference’s theme aptly provided insights on visual challenges; thereby creating a platform where top masterminds in the field strategized to create a roadmap to help children and adults with blindness develop life skills and training to become an equal part of the society.

“The primary objective of the conference was to create an idea-exchange platform to research best practices, and innovations in the field of visual impairments and enhance the quality of life for children with visual challenges. It promotes awareness and support for those who are partially or completely visually impaired, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives,” Dr Satish Tripathi, Founder and President of Ek Kadam Aur Foundation.

“India has 320,000 children suffering from visual impairment, most of them belonging to remote areas, who lack access to rehabilitation programs and quality education due to extreme poverty. A survey by NCERT reveals that only 29.16 percent of children with blindness receive quality education, with a high dropout rate. The conference aims to address these concerns and build an inclusive society with equal opportunities for all,” added Dr. Tripathi.

What added more colors to the event was a mesmerizing performance by Shilpa Shanker Narain, an accomplished classical musical performer with a profound connection with the music genre Dhrupad. In addition, children with vision-related challenges who are studying under the Ek Kadam Aur Foundation’s Arunodaya (Sunrise) for Blind program showcased their talents with exemplary performances at the conference, leveraging a great opportunity to shine and inspire the audience.