Archives February 2024

26th Feb 2024: We are thrilled to congratulate our esteemed partners Jyoti Deshpande, Priyanka Chaudhary & team Jio Studios for bringing an eye-opening and a must-watch film “ARTICLE 370” to moviegoers across the nation.

ARTCILE 370, which premiered yesterday, has since embarked on a rare journey of massive box-office success combined with universal recognition & appreciation. We are ecstatic to be a part of this journey, in taking this film across the country & making it a cinematic celebration. ARTICLE 370 is playing in 1509 theatres (all major multiplexes and single screens, carefully selected, to maximise reach and ROI) with more theatres getting added across the country during the weekend.

“Jyoti has an exceptional eye for identifying exciting content and being able to transform those ideas into award winning, thought-provoking, high grossing movies. ARTICLE 370’s big box-office win further demonstrates what I’ve known for years that few producers match Jyoti’s creative and business acumen. Everyone at PVR INOX Pictures looks forward to working with Jio Studios on their upcoming movie slate” said Kamal Gianchandani, CEO, PVR INOX Pictures.

The film’s distribution was complemented by joint marketing efforts, that engaged diverse audiences in a constructive conversation around the film’s premise. This marketing strategy not only amplified the film’s reach but also deepened its impact.

Moscow Tourism is taking part in the largest international travel and tourism trade fair SATTE (South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange) that is taking place in Greater Noida, NCR, India from February 22-24. The delegation is one of the largest at the event: it includes representatives of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, the Made in Moscow project team, and other representatives of the city’s tourism industry.

Representatives of the Moscow City Tourism Committee took part in several business sessions and presented the capital’s flagship projects during the first day of the event on February 22. For example, during the discussion on cultural heritage, the tourism committee highlighted about the Moscow Estates festival, which has already gained popularity among foreign tourists last summer and this winter.

Moscow is among the world leaders in terms of the number of historical mansions. More than two thousand architectural monuments have been restored in Moscow over 12 years. The festival allows guests to immerse themselves in the history of manors through theatrical tours, master classes and other unusual events. This interactive format of studying cultural heritage is especially suitable for children and young people. Visitors to the festival, including tourists, appreciate the recreated atmosphere and the opportunity to take beautiful photographs.

Another flagship project of the capital is Moscow Tea Time. At Moscow exhibition stand guests can taste tea blends and learn about the Moscow tea traditions. The project takes place right now in Moscow hotels and restaurants. Every day from 16:00 to 19:00, visitors can try different tea time sets, offering a variety of jams and pastries.

“Moscow hosts over 350 colourful cultural and entertainment events every day, which are suitable for both young people and families with children. Business travellers are united through international forums and congresses. For Indian tourists, Moscow is not only a city of impressions, but also a convenient metropolis for travelling. We have more than 19,000 gastronomic establishments, including restaurants serving Indian cuisine. Hotels are developing offers specifically for guests from India, and tourist navigation is duplicated in foreign languages, which makes the trip even more comfortable,” – said Evgeny Kozlov, First Deputy Head of the Office of the Mayor and the Government of Moscow, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee.

As part of the SATTE business programme, interregional routes of the “Moscow +” project were presented. Foreign travellers, including guests from India, often seek to combine visits to several cities in one trip. That is why the capital as a transport hub, from where travellers most often start their journeys around the country, demonstrated ready-made tourist offers combining Moscow and other regions: St. Petersburg, Tyumen, Moscow Region. Russian tour operators – participants of the project –discussed their package offers for the Indian tourist market.

Moscow is a recognised centre of commerce and offers a wide range of shops and brands. At the exhibition, the city presented a rich assortment of traditional souvenirs made by participants of the “Made in Moscow” project. Sixteen Moscow entrepreneurs brought goods in various categories: grooming cosmetics, home fragrances, HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, Catering/Café), children’s products, accessories, as well as vegetarian and vegan products, which were of particular interest to Indian consumers.

Cooperation between Moscow and India is developing rapidly –both in the sphere of classic tourist trips and business tourism. Business visits have become one of the most popular purposes of trips from India to Moscow. Representatives of the Moscow City Tourism Committee talked about the opportunities of Moscow within the framework of business tourism. For example, the Moscow City Tourism Committee shared the successful experience of organising the international conference Meet Global MICE Congress in the field of business tourism in the Russian capital.

The Gzhel theatre, which is rightfully a visiting card of Moscow, also performed at the exhibition. It is a unique dance company that combines folk and ballroom dance, as well as classical ballet in its repertoire. “Gzhel” successfully tours all over the world, introducing the audience to the bright folk traditions.

For reference:

Moscow is one of the main tourist destinations in Russia. In 2023, the capital was visited by 24.5 million tourists from different regions and countries – this is 37% more than in 2022.

Today there are almost 2,000 hotels in Moscow. Thanks to the wide choice, every tourist will find a suitable accommodation option. Hotels are most in demand during holidays and major city events.

There are thousands of cultural sites in the capital: theatres, museums, libraries and others. The city preserves its rich cultural heritage and creates new points of attraction. In recent years, iconic historical and cultural sites and entire territories have been renovated and reconstructed – for example, the country’s main exhibition, VDNKh. The Northern and Southern River stations have been reopened. These are not only important transport hubs of the city, but also places of recreation, new tourist attractions.

There are 19 thousand food industry enterprises in the city –from world-famous restaurants to accessible Moscow gastroclusters. If you had breakfast, lunch and dinner at a new establishment every day, it would take 19 years to try them all.

The capital is a city of panoramas. You can admire the views from a cabin of the Moscow cable car over the river, from the highest skyscrapers, from the soaring bridge in Zaryadye, from observation platforms in the city centre and other districts of the city, not counting the view restaurants that guests traditionally include in their travel plans. In summer, residents and tourists can relax on beaches and swim in outdoor pools, walk along eco-trails in natural areas, and play sports on specially equipped platforms in parks. Also, over the last 10 years, 40 embankments have been built in Moscow: walking along them, one can take 86.5 thousand steps

Moscow offers many opportunities for child and family holidays. The city has many points of attraction for family tourists that do not depend on the season: for example, the Moscow Zoo, one of Europe’s largest oceanariums, Russia’s first indoor amusement park Dream Island, and others. The capital has more than 400 museums and more than 1000 excursions available – including walk-quests for parents and children. In 2023, the city was named the Capital of Children’s Tourism, as well as the Youth Capital for 2024.

—

InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort is pleased to announce the appointment of Gobu Kumar as Executive Chef, under the “Room to Grow” program. Gobu brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success within the IHG family.

Gobu joins us from Crowne Plaza Chennai, where he served as Executive Chef and played a key role in driving IHG’s SWA Share and Conquer initiatives, contributing significantly to the hotel’s success. With over four years of dedicated service to IHG, Gobu has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence and the values that define our organization.

A graduate of Cheeran’s College, Erode, with a degree in Hotel Management, Gobu is deeply passionate about exploring new places and discovering innovative culinary experiences. His dedication to embedding IHG’s culture of high performance and recognition is truly commendable.

Please join us in welcoming Gobu Kumar to InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort. We look forward to his leadership and culinary expertise as we continue to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

XITE College Gamharia recently organized a comprehensive session on the National Education Policy (NEP) regulations. The session, held on 23rd February 2024, featured Dr. Prabhat Kumar Pani, NAAC-cum-NEP Coordinator at Kolhan University, as the esteemed resource person.

The event provided insights into the intricacies of the NEP regulations, with a focus on various aspects such as Semester Course Code, Credit Points, and the flexibility to select subject combinations from disciplinary and inter-disciplinary programs.

Dr. Pani commenced the session with an informative introduction to the NEP and delved into specific topics, including the incorporation of Summer internships, Apprenticeships, and Project opportunities for students. Additionally, he shed light on Research Courses, both disciplinary and interdisciplinary, emphasizing the importance of advanced majors.

One of the highlights of the session was the detailed discussion on Examination Regulations for Four-Year Undergraduate Programs (FYUGP), providing clarity and guidance for faculty members on the evaluation process and compliance with NEP guidelines. The session was attended by Dr (Fr.) E.A. Francis SJ (Principal), Dr (Fr.) Mukti Clarence S.J (Vice-Principal), Dr. Sanchita Ghosh Chowdhury, Dr. Swati Singh, Prof. Sushmita Choudhury Sen. Prof. Amit Chaturvedi, Prof. Nishit Prashad Singh, Prof. Shailesh Kumar Dubey, Prof. Akinchan Xaxa, Prof. Stuti Rag, Dr. Radha Mahali, Prof. Anjali Jha, Mrs. Helen Birua, and Mr. Naval Narayan Choudhary.

Dr. Sanchita Ghosh Chowdhury proposed a heartfelt vote of thanks to Dr. Pani for his contribution to enhancing the understanding of NEP regulations. The session not only promoted a better understanding of the NEP but also provided an opportunity for faculty and staff to engage in significant discussions and exchange ideas.

As the highly anticipated release of Bejoy Nambiar directorial Dange/Por draws near, the makers have dropped a soul-stirring love song, “yeh pal hain apne’ Composed and sung by the exceptionally talented Dhruv Visvanath, the song beautifully captures the essence of love with its emotive melody and heartfelt lyrics penned by Vishwadeep Zeest.

“Yeh pal hain apne” is the second song from the film which adds a poignant layer to the narrative starring Harshvardhan Rane, Ehan Bhat, Nikita Dutta, and TJ Bhanu. Dange explores the intricate dynamics between two friends whose paths diverge, igniting a fierce competition that takes center stage in the cultural festival of a college.

The Tamil version of the song is titled ‘Nanpagal Neram’ sung by Kapil Kapilan, composed by Dhruv Visvanath and penned by Vignesh Srikanth.

T-Series & Roox Media Present A T-Series Films & Getaway Pictures Production ‘Dange’ directed by Bejoy Nambiar. Produced By T-Series, Bejoy Nambiar, Prabhu Antony, Madhu Alexander.

Bangalore, 26th February 2024 In a significant move towards fostering excellence in education and skill development, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Technical Education, Government of Karnataka. The MoU aims to establish Advanced Centres of Excellence (ACoE) in several colleges across the State and as a pilot aims to initiate a ACoE in Government Engineering College, Ramanagara, making it the first government engineering college to host advanced technological equipments in a Centre of Excellence facility.

The signing ceremony took place at the State Higher Education Council, Gandhinagar, Bangalore, in the gracious presence of Dr. M C Sudhakar, Hon’ble Higher Education Minister, Mr. Srikar M S, IAS, Principal Secretary, Higher Education Dept, Mr. Jagadish G, IAS, Commissioner Collegiate & Technical Education Dept, Government of Karnataka, and Mr. Sudeep S. Dalvi, Senior Vice President, Director & Chief Communication Officer, and Mr. Roshan R, General Manager, EA(State), CSR and BIA, TKM

The ACoE’s curriculum offers an extensive learning experience on mechanical, automobile, mechatronic, and advanced green electrified technologies (xEVs) including Strong Hybrids. The initiative aims to enhance quality of education and promote skill development for both engineering college teachers and students through practical learning with support from expert trainers using advanced equipment and facilities.

To support academic research and training as well as to enhance hands-on experience and gain knowledge about the latest in automotive technology, TKM will provide engine, transmission, powertrain cut sections for the ACoE facility. The company will actively organize and schedule training programs for teachers and students, ensuring comprehensive learning and prepare them for the dynamic automotive industry.

Commenting on Toyota’s support in developing world-class infrastructure and skill programs, Dr. M C Sudhakar, Hon’ble Higher Education Minister, Government of Karnataka said, “We are delighted to be a part of the MoU signing between Toyota Kirloskar Motor and the Department of Technical Education, Government of Karnataka, marking a significant milestone in the realm of education and skill development in the State. As the automotive industry is witnessing a paradigm shift with technological advancements so is the demand for a skilled talent. The traditional syllabus and methods of learning need to be constantly upgraded to synchronize with rapidly evolving requirements of the Auto industry. With the establishment of this Advanced Centre of Excellence, we are confident that the hands-on training experience will strengthen their learning on advanced green technologies and create good career opportunities especially for our students thereby contributing to the overall development of Community, State, and the Nation.”

Sharing his thoughts, Mr. Sudeep S Dalvi, Senior Vice President, Director & Chief Communication Officer, TKM said, “ This initiative underscores our commitment to enhance engineering students’ skill and knowledge, on advanced green electrified technologies which is the way forward for the rapidly changing auto industry. Toyota being a leader in electrified technologies would like to create awareness to the young engineers about the future technologies through practical exposure and make them understand the benefits of embracing Greener electrified technologies. Hence this association with the Government of Karnataka through the Advanced Centre of Excellence, will bring about a transformational change in their Skill and knowledge pertaining to advanced greener electrified technologies and its contribution to Carbon Neutrality. TKM remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a world-class skill pool, while contributing to the larger goals of environmental sustainability, societal development, and Skill India mission.”

TKM is spearheading skill development activities in the state and across the country and have implement several activities. Recently the company had undertaken a major expansion of Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) with capacity going up from 600 to 1,200 students, which is a major boost to the existing skill facility in its Bidadi plant with focus on gender diversity and to scale-up students’ skill levels on advanced technology. Furthermore, the company has collaborated with one Industrial Training Institutes (ITI) in each of the 31 districts in Karnataka besides 11 Government Tool Room and Training Centre (GTTC) institutes till date and plans to cover all 33 GTTC institutes in Karnataka in a phased manner. Furthermore, the company continues to train students in 59 institutes across 26 States and 4 union territories through the Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP), and last year the company had introduced the STAR scholarship program under T-TEP for economically challenged students to purse their technical studies.

Looking ahead, TKM envisions development of future engineers, with the establishment of ACoE in various government educational institutions across Karnataka thereby contributing to building skilled and capable workforce for a sustainable tomorrow.

Overview of TKM

Overview of TKM 1st Plant:

Overview of TKM 2nd Plant:

Mumbai, 26th February 2024 : IndiGrid [BSE: 540565 | NSE: INDIGRID], India’s first and largest listed power sector infrastructure investment trust (InvIT), today announced that it has consummated transaction of 300 MW AC solar asset for an Enterprise Valuation of ~INR 15,500 million, exclusive of net working capital and cash adjustments, in line with the share purchase agreement that was signed in January 2024. With this asset addition, IndiGrid’s portfolio now consists of 19 solar projects across 8 states of the country with a total generation capacity of 1.1 GWp. IndiGrid’s total Assets Under Management now stands at ~INR 282 billion.

This acquisition has been funded through a combination of equity, internal accruals, and debt and will add ~INR 800 million of net distributable cash flow, to IndiGrid, every year. The net debt/AUM will be ~63% post this acquisition.

Operational since December 2021, ReNew Solar Urja Private Limited (RSUPL) is located in the high irradiation region of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan and has a 25-year Purchase Power Agreement (PPA) with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) to sell power generated at a tariff of INR 2.71 per unit. RSUPL is a strategic addition to IndiGrid’s portfolio as it would be the largest capacity project located at a single site for the company.

Commenting on the acquisition, Harsh Shah, Chief Executive Officer, and Whole Time Director of IndiGrid, said,” Energy Transition in India is progressing at a rapid pace as the country works towards achieving its Net Zero commitments. Renewable generation is strategically positioned to play a pivotal role in this journey in the coming years. RSUPL is a high-quality asset and will add accretive NDCF for IndiGrid. We are excited to about this transaction as it is in-line with our objective to be a sustainable and superior risk-adjusted yield platform for our investors.”

Mumbai, 26th February 2024 Bollywood Stars Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao shared the stories around their latest venture “Laapataa Ladies” at the ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0.

Critically acclaimed for several blockbusters and poignant movies as an actor and filmmaker, Aamir Khan has achieved much success in movies like 3 Idiots, Lagaan, Tare Zameen Par, and PK.

Speaking at the session “Telling Lapaataa Tales: Scenes from an Invisible Country Nation”, Aamir Khan, said, “Kiran is a very honest filmmaker, and Lapaataa Ladies is such a dramatic story that I thought this should be made.”

Speaking about the preparation he does for his roles, Aamir Khan, said, ‘I believe in doing rehearsal and being prepared. I feel first and foremost a script should entertain me which gives me confidence about it’

Speaking about the misfortune of his last release, Aamir Khan, said, “Laal Singh Chaddha was one movie which gave me a lot of learning opportuning. Thank God I made all the mistakes in one”

Known for making movies that were loved both by critics and the people, Kiran Rao, Producer and Director, has achieved tremendous acclaim for contributing to the making of thoughtful entertainers like Dhobi Ghat, Peepli Live, Jaane Tu ya Jaane Na, and Dangal.

Talking about her movie Laapataa Ladies which will hit the screen in March, Kiran Rao, said, “There’s a different excitement in working with new actors, and this movie gave enough opportunity to do so. The social issues work as a subtext in the movie.”

Responding to a question on the use of artificial intelligence in movies, Aamir Khan, said, “We have to learn to evolve with Artificial Intelligence and new technologies.”

Kiran Rao, remarked, “I don’t think AI can be stopped. We all are using some form of technology of what we do.”

The ABP Network’s ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 spotlighting the ‘The People’s Agenda’ brought a confluence of ideas and ideators to a common platform celebrating the country’s people and its plurality. The two-day summit hosted policymakers, cultural ambassadors, industry experts, celebrities, business leaders, economists, and leading luminaries to delve into the fundamental ideas of liberty, justice, equality, and diversity that define India, its society, culture, and politics. The meaningful deliberations on diverse topics had the brightest minds across sectors providing insights about the nation’s trajectory and its journey to become Viksit Bharat.

Mumbai,26th February 2024 : On the inaugural day of ABP Network’s flagship event, the ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0, Ananya Birla, Social Entrepreneur and Artist and Navya Naveli Nanda, Podcaster, Founder, Project Naveli and Co-Founder, Nimaya Foundation shared their views on the theme ‘The Next-Gen: A Different Vibe’ in Mumbai today.

Giving a peek into the minds of Gen-Z and the feel of the next-gen vibe, Ananya Birla, shared a refreshing perspective of what the new India wants. “I realised early on that in our society that women didn’t have the freedom to do what they wanted because they were not financially independent. I think once a woman is financially independent, that takes the edge off a little bit, and to do that has been my mission. Svatantra means ‘freedom,’ and I started Svatantra at 17, and today, it stands as the second-largest microfinance institution in India.”

Speaking about her artistic pursuits, Ananya Birla, expressed, “The turning point in my life came when I went to Oxford and struggled with my mental health. Music became my solace, and performing gigs allowed me to express myself. Balancing music and business is a constant challenge, but I am grateful for the support of my family. I would be nowhere without my last name and I feel like I am adding to the family legacy, and it has been a huge blessing. As soon as you become more comfortable in your skin, you become better.”

Having taken a different route than her famous Bollywood family members, Navya Naveli Nanda, spoke about her journey as podcaster, and shared, “Doing the podcast with my mother and grandmother has been fun. They have always been very opinionated women, never shying away from voicing opinions and we have tried to keep it organic. For me, carrying forward a legacy or surname is about making my family proud and achieving my own ambitions. I have been given opportunities most girls my age wouldn’t get, and I credit that to my family.”

Advocating for social responsibility, Navya expressed, “Giving back is both a moral and individual choice, we must give back in whatever way we can. The past three years have been about creating impact and feeling a personal responsibility for the work I carry forward, while also creating a separate identity for myself.”

The ABP Network’s ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 spotlighting the ‘The People’s Agenda’ brought a confluence of ideas and ideators to a common platform celebrating the country’s people and its plurality. The two-day summit hosted policymakers, cultural ambassadors, industry experts, celebrities, business leaders, economists, and leading luminaries to delve into the fundamental ideas of liberty, justice, equality, and diversity that define India, its society, culture, and politics. The meaningful deliberations on diverse topics had the brightest minds across sectors providing insights about the nation’s trajectory and its journey to become Viksit Bharat.

Bengaluru, 26th February 2024 Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (NMIT) hosted the First International Conference on Emerging Research in Computing, Information, Communication, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning event (ERCICAM 2024), which brought together experts, enthusiasts, and their research from across the field of emerging technologies.

The event featured an expert keynote speech on the impact of AI on jobs, democracy & decision-making processes; research paper presentations and discussions, all focused on the latest trends and developments in computing, information, communication, artificial intelligence and machine learning. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge research and development, network with industry leaders, and gain insights into how emerging technologies are shaping the future of their respective fields.

The conference was graced by the presence of prominent dignitaries including Dr. G. R. Sinha, Provost (Vice Chancellor), GSFC University, Vadodara, Gujarat. Speaking at the occasion, he noted “AI is playing a significant role in revolutionizing the technological landscape of different sectors including healthcare and sustainability. We are advancing in the 5G and 6G Technology which has created a potential to integrate AI in telehealthcare in rural India. AI is now driving the focus of the industry towards ESG: Environment Sustainability Governance. With these developments, it has become extremely necessary to bring the industry and academia closer and, there are tremendous efforts being made here at NMIT in bringing the two closer. I want to advise the students and researchers that we are surrounded by data and we need to exploit that data in real time”.

Dr. Dana Rezazadegan, “the superstar of STEM”, from Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne Australia, delivered her keynote address on the topic “AI Horizons: Opportunities & Threats that reshape our Future”. Addressing the gathering she said, “AI has the potential to revolutionize various domains, including healthcare, science, and communication. However, its responsible use is crucial to address concerns about misinformation and fake news. The focus of researchers should be on developing responsible, explainable and ethical AI.” She also emphasized the importance of integrating AI systems into energy hubs and transportation, while ensuring that AI is used for the betterment of society.

Venugopal K R, Former Vice- Chancellor of Bangalore University said , “The world is now moving from Artificial Intelligence to Super Artificial Intelligence. While AI plays a major role in data management, it is our duty to ensure AI is explainable, accountable and responsible for mankind. Although we are witnessing the threatful impact of advancement in AI with Deep Fake technology, we should navigate the advantage of Digital twin creations in life ailing requirements. Cloning, DNA Profiling, Co-operative robots, STEM cell technology, Artificial and real synthesis will be one of the leading cutting edge technologies of the future”

Dr. I.R. Vijay S. Rao, Research Lead (Principal Director), Technology Incubation Group, LTIMindtree Ltd. Netherlands delved into the emerging trends and research arena of Internet of Things (IoT).

Dr.H.C. Nagaraj, Principal, NMIT delivered the welcome address. Dr. Nalini N, Professor in CSE, Program Chair, ERCICAM 2024 delivered an introductory address on ERCICAM 2024. Dr. Parameshachari B.D, Associate Dean R&D, ECE dept rendered the vote of thanks. Prof N R Shetty, Chief Advisor of NMIT and Former VC of Bangalore University, delivered the Presidential address. Dr V Sridhar, Dean- Academics, Dr Srikanth R – HOD-MCA, Dr Piyush Kumar Pareek- HOD of AI and ML Dept, and Dr J. Sudheer Reddy, Dean – International Relations were present during the event as well.

NMIT’s ERCICAM stayed true to its word of being a platform for researchers, industry leaders, and enthusiasts to come together and discuss the latest trends and developments in emerging technologies. The event was a testament to the growing importance of these fields, and we look forward to seeing what new breakthroughs and innovations will emerge in the coming years.