Archives February 2024

The fourth day of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Series Jaipur Literature Festival 2024 saw some powerhouse sessions and enthusiastic audiences flocking between packed venues. It began with a musical performance by Dr. Kamala Shankar, inventor of the Classical Slide Guitar. Her soulful performance complemented the rainy Festival Sunday morning.

At the Festival, Teamwork Arts and their long-time partners British Council have entered a Memorandum of Understanding to bolster artistic collaboration and networks between India and the UK in alignment with the India-UK 2030 Roadmap. This partnership seeks to facilitate knowledge exchange, connect artists and cultures, and also expand their respective event networks globally. As knowledge partners, Teamwork Arts and the British Council also aim to promote diversity in public discourse and foster mutual understanding.

The official dates of the second edition of JLF Spain Valladolid were announced during the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Series Jaipur Literature Festival 2024. The Festival will take place from 30th May to 3rd June, 2024. Following the announcement, Deputy Minister for Culture and Commissioner for Spanish Language, Mar Sancho Sanz addressed the audience.

Vani Prakashan Books and Teamwork Arts announced the winner of this year’s Vani Foundation Distinguished Translator Awardee – Òscar Pujol – for translating from Sanskrit to Spanish. Pujol received his doctorate in Sanskrit from Banaras Hindu University and has had a life-long engagement with India. He has been the director of the Cervantes Institutes of New Delhi and Rio de Janeiro, and director of the educational programmes of Casa Asia. He is the author and translator of a number of books.

Some of today’s highlight sessions were:

Common Yet Uncommon

Speakers: Sudha Murty in conversation with Meru Gokhale

Presented by Rajasthan Patrika

The session began with educator and bestselling author Sudha Murty speaking fondly about her childhood which was spent in her ancestral home as a curious child wanting to know about all the happenings around her. She said, “Somehow I want to know more about people, where they come from, because for me a person is not just a person, a person is a book and I am reading a book.” Murty introduced her book Common Yet Uncommon, written from a naïve child’s perspective, which explores the different flaws and issues with the characters within the book.

Time Shelter

Speakers: Georgi Gospodinov in conversation with Nandini Nair

2023 International Booker Prize-winning author, Georgi Gospodinov, spoke about his book Time Shelter (in which a “clinic for the past,” an institution that offers an inspired treatment for Alzheimer’s sufferers and has floors that reproduce a past decade in minute detail, allowing patients to transport themselves back in time to unlock what is left of their fading memories), and its relevance in today’s political climate. Gospodinov remarked, “The problem is when someone tries to remake the happy memories of the past of the whole nation. That is very dangerous. Past is a personal feeling… usually this past is an invented past, it is very dangerous.” Gospodinov also fondly reminisced about his time growing up with his grandparents, who instilled in him a sense of creativity and imagination, “If you can find the sublime in the everyday things, in the banal things, you are safe.”

Hollywood to Himalayas

Speakers: Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati in conversation with Puneeta Roy

The session began with Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati recalling her childhood and early 20s in her hometown of Beverly Hills, California. She further spoke about the essence of something being wrong within her, the feeling of lacking that drove her towards the life of a Sadhvi. She discussed the motivation behind her book as a sewa to humankind and the major theme in her memoir Hollywood to Himalayas is forgiveness for oneself and others. The session ended with a brief guided meditation session by Bhagwati Saraswati.

The Golden Mole: And Other Living Treasure

Speakers: Katherine Rundell in conversation with Yuvan Aves

This session was centred around celebrated writer Katherine Rundell’s work, The Golden Mole: And Other Living Treasure, in which she spoke about the other intelligent creatures of the world. In reference to that, she said, “The greatest lie that humanity has ever told is that the world is ours.” Her aim was to write something that would express the astonishing intelligence of the different species on earth. From pandas to elephants to rhinos, she introduced the audience to the numerous marvels that go unnoticed within nature. The session ended with her marvelling about the multitudes of things the world is yet to discover about other living creatures.

Empire of Pain

Speakers: Patrick Radden Keefe in conversation with Pragya Tiwari

Presented by OneIndia

The opioid public health crisis which crippled the United States of America in the 1990s inspired Patrick Radden Keefe’s Baillie Gifford Prize-winning book Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty. He took the audience through the horrors of soft corruption and private money, and the massive impact they can have on any industry including pharmaceuticals. Referring to the crisis as a “family saga”, Keefe said, “… There was this one family that had really helped create this crisis which had gone on to kill hundreds of thousands of people. I am always interested in ethical questions and stories about families and so that was what drew me in”.

First Edition: “Audacious Hope: How to Save a Democracy” By Indrajit Roy

Speakers: Indrajit Roy and Shashi Tharoor in conversation with Nidhi Razdan

Introducing academic and writer, Indrajit Roy’s new book Audacious Hope: How to Save a Democracy, Member of Parliament and author, Shashi Tharoor, and Roy engaged in a charged conversation about the current state of Indian democracy and their hopes for the future. When talking about the role of dissent and protests in today’s political spaces, Roy said, “It’s better to romanticise protests than to romanticise the governments.” Stressing on the importance of the institutions of our country, Tharoor said, “Elections are not enough. Institutions give power to our democracy… whether it is new institutions or old institutions.”

How Prime Ministers Decide?

Speakers: Neerja Chowdhury in conversation with Mandira Nayar

Award-winning journalist and seasoned political commentator Neerja Chowdhury’s recent book How Prime Ministers Decide delves into the lives and decisions of six prominent Prime Ministers of Independent India. Sympathising with the lives of leaders, Chowdhury said, “Prime Ministers are lonely, Prime Ministers are vulnerable, Prime Ministers are superstitious, Prime Ministers are subject to all kinds of pressure.”

The Earth Transformed: An Untold History

Speakers: Peter Frankopan in conversation with Yuvan Aves

Historian and writer Peter Frankopan discussed his book, The Earth Transformed: An Untold History, which describes how climate change has dramatically changed the world across the time. Frankopan expressed his concerns about the depletion of nature, loss of biodiversity, and lack of awareness about geological formation, despite it playing a fundamental role in history and civilisations. He spoke about the idea of history being of a certain kind, one that only includes stories of humans but not the natural factors that influence their lives, “We all go through thinking about the past without ever considering weather conditions…”.

Firebird

Speakers: Perumal Murugan and Kannan Sundaram in conversation with Manasi Subramaniam

2023 JCB Prize for Literature-winner Perumal Murugan was in conversation with publisher Kannan Sundaram and Manasi Subramaniam. Fire bird is based on the author’s life experience of displacement and movement. Murugan spoke about the close relationship he shared with his mother which helped him get an insight into female life, and helped him reinforce that women play a crucial role in his books. Sundaram shared that Murugan’s works are translated from Tamil to English, while the process of translating the entire work goes relatively smoothly, translating the titles is always a challenge as the titles are rooted into local Tamil cultural contexts.

Irrfan: A Life in Movies

Speakers: Shubhra Gupta, Sutapa Sikdar and Vishal Bhardwaj in conversation with Sathya Saran

Actor Irrfan Khan’s transformative body of work took the Indian cinema by storm. From his National School of Drama days to his nearly decade-long stint in television and his work in path-breaking movies such as The Namesake, Life of Pi, Maqbool and Hindi Medium, Irrfan’s special quality of stardom has managed to touch all his viewers. Film critic and writer Shubhra Gupta’s, Irrfan: A Life in Movies, is a collection of conversations with his contemporaries and their memories of their time with the legend. In conversation with his beloved wife and theatre actor Sutapa Sikdar and filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj, they dived into the art, craft and life of Irrfan.

February 5 will mark the final day of the grand literary marathon and will feature Sharmistha Mukherjee, former President Pranab Mukherjee’s daughter and classical dancer & choreographer, academics Arathi Prasad, Amia Srinivasan, celebrity chef Asma Khan, well-known athlete and author Sohini Chattopadhyay, Harvard professor Vincent Brown, former diplomat and author John Zubrzycki, art historian & JNU professor Naman Ahuja, journalist Vir Sanghvi and Katie Kitamura, author of Intimacies, among others. The famed closing debate of the 2024 edition of the Festival will be on whether free speech will survive surveillance technology and privacy invasions.

Bengaluru, 05th February: Delhi-based leading auto-tech company Rosmerta Technologies Limited today introduced a cutting-edge AI-based Driver Monitoring & Alert System integrated with a vehicle tracking management system. Initially targeted at fleet operators, the system offers real-time tracking, video AI-based driver behaviour monitoring, and in-cabin alert for trucks.

The system employs a device with two cameras, IR blasters, GPS with SIM connectivity, and G-sensors to monitor vehicle acceleration and braking. One camera observes road conditions, while the other monitors the driver’s actions, ensuring adherence to traffic rules, including detecting road signs like speed limits.

Karn Nagpal, President of Rosmerta, said that, “Rosmerta is committed to ushering in a new era of safety and accountability on Indian roads with our AI-Based Driver Monitoring & Alert System. By closely monitoring driver behavior in real-time, we aim to significantly improve road safety, particularly for fleet operators. We believe this technology holds immense potential for widespread adoption, extending beyond fleet management to benefit individual buyers and taxi fleets. Rosmerta remains dedicated to providing practical, accessible solutions for a safer and more secure automotive experience.”

An interesting feature is its capacity to provide non-ADAS vehicles with ADAS level 0 capabilities, identifying and alerting drivers to violations such as overspeeding, stop & speed sign violations, harsh braking, acceleration, cornering, forward collision warning, lane drifting, and tailgating.

 The solution for fleet owners includes packages covering data transmission and storage. The device itself is priced at INR 30,000. Rosmerta, known for its diverse solutions, from high-security number plates to car scrappage facilities, continues to innovate in the automotive safety and management sector.

Key Features of Rosmerta’s Driver Management System:

1. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Leveraging ADAS, Rosmerta’s DMS provides real-time insights into driver behavior, enhancing safety by addressing concerns like over-speeding, red light violations, and driver fatigue.
2. Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (CV2X) Integration: The system seamlessly integrates CV2X technology, facilitating communication between vehicles, infrastructure, and pedestrians for a connected and secure road ecosystem.
3. Vision AI and M2M Connectivity: Utilizing state-of-the-art Vision AI and M2M connectivity, the DMS brings passive ADAS features into vehicles, ensuring a frugal yet futuristic approach to road safety.
4. Incident and Video Capture Logic: Differing from traditional video surveillance, Rosmerta’s DMS prioritizes usability by capturing incidents and videos in a way that resonates with human behavior, making it an intuitive and effective safety tool.

Bangalore, 5^th February 2024: Reinforcing the road safety and coinciding with the ‘Road Safety Month (18^th Jan – 17^th Feb 2024), Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the successful culmination of 24 hours Toyota Hackathon, held at the RV Institute of Technology and Management, Bangalore. The stage event of the 24 Hours-Hackathon was presided by the Chief Guests – Shri. H C Balakrishna, MLA Magadi & Chairman – Karnataka Road Development Limited, Government of Karnataka, Shri. Sharath Bache Gowda, Chairman – Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited (KEONICS), Government of Karnataka, Guest of Honour – Shri. J. Purushotham, Additional Commissioner for Transport & Director – Road Safety Cell, Transport Department, Government of Karnataka, Special Invitee – Mr Brijesh Agarwal, Vice President- Operations at Consero Global & Assistant Chief Traffic Warden, along with TKM’s Senior Executive – Mr. Sudeep S. Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer & Senior Vice President and Director, and other key dignitaries.

Education and Road Safety is one of the key pillars of TKM’s core CSR. Through this initiative, TKM focuses to drive the inventive minds of the students (class 9th to 12th standard) from across various private and government schools as well as colleges based in Bangalore. The Toyota Hackathon provided a dynamic platform, divided into three engaging phases, where students showcased their creativity, innovation, and prototype development of practical digital solutions aimed to promote road safety. Further, this program underscores the strong efforts of the company’s contribution to the vision of ‘Zero Road Fatalities’ through ingenuity of young minds, by empowering future generations to develop actionable road safety solutions.

India with its vast population and diverse road networks, experiences a high number of road accidents annually. The report for calendar year 2022* reveals that the number of road accidents, the number of persons killed, and the number of injuries has increased compared to previous years by 11.9%, 9.4% and 15.3% respectively. Further, young adults in the age group of 18 – 45 years accounted for 66.5 per cent of the fatal road accident victims during 2022. 

(*As per the publication ‘Road Accidents in India 2022’, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways – Transport Research Wing, Govt. of India)

In this direction, the Toyota Hackathon (initiated in 2018) acts as a catalyst to include road safety in the school & college curriculums, and thereby encourage children to become critical thinkers, further develop solutions for modern-day road safety challenges. This helps to unlock the hidden talents of young minds, empowering them to make significant contributions to the vital cause of road safety. Further, by actively engaging students, it seeks to develop them to become ‘Change Agents’, playing a crucial role in bringing about a positive behavioural change in the community at large.  Furthermore, this initiative provides an ideal platform, encouraging the future generation to leverage their knowledge and technical expertise to address high-priority issues effectively.

Sharing his views about the Toyota Hackathon, Shri. H C Balakrishna, MLA Magadi & Chairman – Karnataka Road Development Limited, Government of Karnataka, said, “It is important to identify and tackle the root causes of road accidents in a comprehensive manner and the youths can play a critical role as change makers and become road safety champions. I am truly impressed by the innovative spirit and dedication showcased through the ideation and prototypes developed by the students at participating schools and colleges at Toyota Hackathon. Further, it is commendable to witness TKM’s commitment towards fostering road safety by creating the right platform to engage and empower the young minds and at grassroot level.

The government acknowledges the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing road safety challenges, and initiatives like these is essential to deploy the creative potential of our future road users and drive a impactful positive change amongst the community as well”.

Present at the Toyota Hackathon, Shri. Sharath Bache Gowda, Chairman, Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited (KEONICS) – Government of Karnataka, said, “We commend Toyota Kirloskar Motor for their proactive efforts in promoting road safety through their well-designed initiative like the Toyota Hackathon, encouraging the youths to express their innovative ideas and develop prototypes which can support to address the road safety challenges faced in today’s world.

The government recognizes the pivotal role that collaborative initiatives like this play in leveraging the creativities and engaging the young minds to influence the society in positive way with good road behaviour. Such endeavours contribute significantly to the shared goal of reducing road accidents & ensuring the safety of the citizens, and Toyota’s efforts in this direction is truly appreciated”.

During the academic year 2023-24, 62 students comprising of 31 teams registered for the Toyota Hackathon. The program’s innovation themes actively covered a broad spectrum of seven road safety challenges – “Road Safety Awareness and Education”; “Community Engagement for Safety”; “School Zone Safety”; “Road Infrastructure and Pollution”; “IoT/ICT in Road Safety”; “Traffic Easement” & “Making Roads Inclusive”.

The first phase of the Toyota Hackathon 2024, kicked off with students submitting a 200-word concept note about their new ideas on road safety. Out of which, the qualifying students consisting of 25 teams were invited to an onsite, one-day boot camp in Bangalore during Jan 2024, where they honed their best ideas and presentation skills, preparing for the on-ground Hackathon. In the second phase, students further re-submitted a 300-word revised concept note, showcasing the evolution and refinement of their initial proposed ideas. The culminating phase featured the 2-day onsite, 24 hours Hackathon held in Bangalore, which offered technical mentorship by experts and industry professional to build prototype basis the ideation submitted during the first phase of the Hackathon. The jury members comprised of representatives and officials from Bangalore Traffic Police; Mindzwork Bangalore; Transportation Systems Engineering (TSE); IISc Sustainable Transportation Lab (IST Lab); R V Institute of Technology and Management – Bangalore; Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP); Traffic Training & Road Safety Institute; Infosys; Media and Centre for Infrastructure, Sustainable Transportation and Urban Planning (CiSTUP).

Out of 10 competing teams, three final top winning teams were announced that constituted Delhi Public School (1^st prize winners – Dev Vats & Eshaan Godbole) – Bangalore; Delhi Public School (2^nd prize winners – Anay Lohani & Angad S.K) – Bangalore; and Karnataka Public School (3^rd prize winners – Apoorva A.S & Asha A.R) – Bangalore. The consolation prize winners consisted of Soundarya Central School, Bangalore (1^st Consolation – Abhishek Gowda B.S & Amogh Rao) and Podar International School, Bangalore (2^nd Consolation – Naresh Patel & Kushal V).

Commenting on the Toyota Hackathon initiative, Mr. Sudeep S. Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer and Senior Vice President & Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “At Toyota, our commitment to road safety extends beyond manufacturing of safe cars; we strive to grow in tandem with society and enrich the lives of the communities we serve by promoting road safety and instilling behavioural change in them. Our journey towards raising awareness on road safety dates to 2007, reaching 790,000 students thus far through various road safety initiatives, focusing on school children, and developing them to become ‘road safety ambassadors’, thereby inculcating the positive change amongst the people. In this direction, Toyota Hackathon is an extended program aimed to provide a platform to school children (class 9^th – 12^th) to emerge as ‘Solution Providers’, to promote road safety. This unique road safety initiative contributes to enhance a strong connect with the young minds to demonstrate their creativity, developing solutions towards improving road safety and advance their sustainable development as future safety champions.

As we mark the successful culmination of the 24-Hours Toyota Hackathon, we are truly inspired by the creativity and dedication displayed by the school and college students. This important initiative stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to ensuring ‘People’s Safety on Road’. Our heartfelt thanks to all the students, teachers, faculties, educational institutes, and esteemed authorities for joining hands with us and their strong encouragement and participation in this important Toyota Hackathon program”.

During the awarding ceremony, the key dignitaries along with TKM senior executive presented the ‘Certificate of Participation’ and exciting ‘Prizes’ to the top 10 finalists and top three winning teams of Toyota Hackathon, appreciating the students’ enthusiasm and contributions as road safety champions.

Going forward, TKM will further evaluate the incubation support to the Toyota Hackathon finalists’ and continue to explore the possibilities of the prototype implementation, thereby promote road safety.

“World Cancer Day prompts reflection on the profound impact of Cancer on individuals and families. Scheduling routine check-ups is advisable to detect any potential cancer at an early stage. Early detection enhances the prospects of recovery. Additionally, it’s prudent to ensure sufficient insurance coverage to mitigate unforeseen circumstances like cancer. Let us use this day to reinforce our commitment to raising awareness, advocating for early detection, and standing together in the fight against cancer. Together, we can make strides towards a future where cancer is no longer a barrier to well-being and fulfillment.”

Bengaluru February 5, 2024– Finance Minister of India Ms Nirmala Sitaraman presented her annual but interim budget (due to ensuing elections) very recently. It had slew of offerings for logistics industry. The logistics sector has received a major push in the Interim Budget 2024 as the government plans to set up three major economic railway corridors to reduce congestion and logistics costs in India. Industry stakeholders welcomed the government’s plans but have highlighted that certain areas still require attention. Industry stakeholders welcomed the government’s plans but have highlighted that certain areas still require attention.

The government said these projects have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity. These commodity-specific economic rail corridors aim to address congestion issues in rail lines, particularly in the eastern region. These dedicated corridors will facilitate faster movement of freight and improve turnaround times, reducing logistics costs for India. Currently, logistics costs account for approximately 12% of India’s GDP, which hampers its competitiveness, particularly in the manufacturing sector, compared with competing countries. Industry stakeholders say that by reducing traffic on transportation routes and improving the efficiency of freight transportation, the county can increase its logistical competitiveness.

Giving his views on the budget Lobb Logistics Chief Executive Officer Venu Kondur said, “This will be an added boost to Tech led logistics businesses “All forms of infrastructure – digital, social, physical – are being built in record time”, he went on to say “the government must adopt economic policies that will sustain growth and contribute in powering investment and fulfil aspirations. The commitment of renewed assurance on logistics policy and connecting multi-model through technology is going to be key. Increasing road network for motorable roads is also an added fillip to us. The government will take up next generation reforms and build consensus with the states and stakeholders to ensure effective implementation, Policy priority to provide training for MSMEs to compete globally. The government promise to expand and strengthen the EV ecosystem by supporting manufacturing and charging infrastructure”.

New Delhi, February 05th 2024: News18 India, the country’s No.1 Hindi news channel, is all set to host the next edition of its flagship summit, News18 India Chaupal, today on February 5th, 2024, in New Delhi. This year’s Chaupal will mark a new chapter in the property’s history with a completely overhauled visual identity. Chaupal will continue to focus on the real issues of Bharat but from a futuristic lens – looking at strategies for driving inclusive and transformative growth that will fuel India’s journey to becoming a developed nation by 2047, a goal that PM Modi has set out for the country.

Karan Abhishek Singh, CEO, Hindi News, Network18, articulating his vision for News18 India Chaupal said, “At this crucial juncture in India’s growth journey, this year’s Chaupal will serve as a catalyst, driving discussion on strategies for impactful change that can contribute significantly to the nation’s progress. We are proud to be at the forefront of shaping this narrative and fostering positive development for the future.”

Jyoti Kamal, Editor, News18 India and Hindi Digital expressed his excitement for the upcoming Summit and remarked, “News18 India Chaupal enables us to not only discuss but actively contribute to shaping India’s future. I am thrilled about the diverse lineup we have curated for Chaupal and am confident that our viewers will find the discussions both compelling and insightful.”

Top political leaders such as national BJP President J P Nadda, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Women & Child Development and Minority Affairs Smriti Irani, Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting and Youth Affairs & Sports Anurag Thakur, Union Minister of Railways, Communications and Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju, former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav, Rajya Sabha MP Digvijay Singh, Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, cricketers Mohammed Shami & Shikhar Dhawan, and Bollywood actors Ayushmann Khurrana, Taapsee Pannu, Ashutosh Rana, and many others will speak at the Summit.

News18 India Chaupal will be aired live on News18 India today, 10 AM onwards.

Mumbai, February 05, 2024: The World University of Design (WUD) marked a significant milestone as it conferred degrees upon 160 students during its 3rd Convocation Ceremony at the Sonipat Campus. The graduates, representing diverse design disciplines, included both Bachelors and Masters Students.

Distinguished dignitaries graced the convocation, with Chief Guest Dr. Anil D. Sahasrabudhe (Chairman, National Education Technology Forum (NETF), Chairman, ECNAAC and Chairman, NBA) and Guest of Honor His Excellency Ambassador Kimmo Lahdevirta, Ambassador of Finland to India.

In his address, Dr. Anil D. Sahasrabudhe stated, “Education is a journey with challenges and varied experiences shaping lives. Success is found not just in medals but in the entire journey. Graduates, now professionals, are ready to shape the nation’s future with passion and commitment. Dedication to leadership is constant, and embracing failures is crucial. In the future, these graduates will take on leadership roles, connected to the institution, inspiring the next generation with a steadfast commitment to innovation.”

Ambassador Kimmo Lahdevirta expressed, “I am honored to be part of this ceremony. My vision aligns seamlessly with WUD’s values, emphasizing the significance of cross-cultural learning experiences between Finland and India. WUD’s active participation in global conferences and robust student exchange programs, notably with esteemed institutions like Aalto University and Hame University of Applied Sciences in Finland, reflects its steadfast commitment to upholding international education standards. This collaborative effort not only fosters cultural understanding but also contributes to the global exchange of knowledge, making WUD a beacon of international education excellence.”

The ceremony not only acknowledged academic achievements but also showcased the university’s dedication to instilling a global perspective among students. Three prestigious medals were awarded, highlighting WUD’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding academic excellence. The Chancellor’s Gold Medal, the highest honor, was bestowed upon Ms. Vrinda Singhal from the School of Design, symbolizing the exceptional achievements of the batch of 2023. Additionally, Gold and Silver Medals were presented to top-performing students in each program, following established criteria.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of WUD, expressed enthusiasm, saying, “As we stand at the crossroads of celebrating achievements, acknowledging our impact, and addressing challenges, I am confident that the World University of Design will continue to be a beacon of excellence. Our commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and global citizenship remains unwavering. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the graduating class of 2023, and I am certain that each of them will contribute significantly to the world of design and beyond. May their journey ahead be as inspiring as the years spent at World University of Design.”

The ceremony marked the official transition of graduates to professionals as degrees were conferred and a design professional pledge was made. WUD bid a confident farewell, expressing belief in their readiness for unique professional journeys. The 3rd Convocation recognized Bachelors and Masters achievements, shaping future design leaders. The graduates, armed with knowledge, inspiration, and a global outlook, are prepared to make meaningful contributions to the world of design and beyond.

This year, approximately 90% of WUD’s students secured placements. The average annual salary for the graduating batch of 2023 is 5.1 LPA. The highest salary offered for the 2023 batch is 12.5 LPA. Among the top recruiters were Reliance Brands, Tata, Airtel, Max, ABinBev, Ogilvy, Dentsu, Elexi, Leo Burnett, Hettich, Shahi Exports, Payal Jain, Satya Paul, Thence, Sankul, and the Government of Bhutan.

Key stakeholders, including Dr. Neena Singh Zutshi, Dean of Academics, Prof. Devender Singh Kharb, Dean of the School of Fashion, Prof. Anjan, Dean of the School of Communication, Prof. Rajan Shripad Fulari, Dean of the School of Visual Arts, Prof. Balbir Singh, Dean of the School of Design, Prof. Sanmitra Chitte, Dean of the School of Business, Prof. Shaleen Sharma, Dean of the School of Architecture, Prof. Parul Purohit Vats, Dean of the School of Performing Arts, were in attendance. Chancellor Dr. Hukum Chand Bansal and Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of the World University of Design, concluded the ceremony with a vote of thanks.

Bhubaneswar: In the heart of Bhubaneswar, where tradition and modernity intertwine seamlessly, a silent revolution is underway in Odisha, with its deep cultural roots, is emerging as a vibrant hotspot for young visionaries and entrepreneurs, all thanks to dynamic initiatives – the Odisha Startup Yatra and Startup Express.

 These groundbreaking programs have become the driving force propelling Odisha’s burgeoning startup ecosystem, fostering a culture of innovation among the bright minds within school and college walls. Aimed at cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit, these initiatives have been instrumental in harnessing the creative energies of the state’s youth.

 In the recently concluded edition, the enthusiasm was palpable, with over 36,000 students from diverse educational institutions across Odisha actively participating. Workshops, mentorship sessions, and competitions served as compasses guiding these young minds through the intricate journey of transforming ideas into viable startups.

 The impact of these initiatives is unmistakable, with over 4,400 innovative ideas blossoming from the fertile minds of Odisha’s youth. These ideas span a spectrum of sectors, showcasing the diversity of creativity within the state.

 Among the standout concepts, the Stereovision Camera, Virtual Reality Sets, Liquid Biofertilizer, Millet-based Ready-to-Eat Products, Press Fit Fuse, AI-Based Agro-Bots for Cotton Farms, Cornstarch-Based Bioplastics in the Pharmaceutical Industry, Online Doorstep Repair Services, Long- Lasting Billboards, Handwriting Recognizer, Answer Finder, an App to Avoid Junk and Sugar, Nerve Finder and Innovative Garbage Management Solutions shine as beacons of innovation.

 One exemplary story from this innovation crusade is that of Dwarikanath Choudhury, a student of the Silicon Institute. His revolutionary project in the field of aerial vehicles garnered the highest score of 83 marks, presenting a new generation of vertical takeoff and landing with rotating flaps and wings. His technology promises to revolutionize traditional aircraft design.

 The transformative journey of startups isn’t confined to specific locales in Odisha. From Khurda to Sundergarh, Mayurbhanj to Berhampur, Rayagada to Puri, Jharsuguda to Ganjam, Gajapati, school and college students have captivated judges’ hearts with their astounding startup ideas, showcasing the expansive scope of their imagination. Startup Odisha has indeed tapped into the immense potential of innovation among the state’s students.

 The success stories emanating from these programs paint a vivid picture of the transformative power of Startup Yatra and Startup Express. Students aren’t merely generating groundbreaking ideas; they are also acquiring the skills and mindset needed to navigate the complex world of entrepreneurship.

 The innovative solutions proposed by these young minds, spanning sustainable agriculture practices to cutting-edge technology applications, highlight the vast talent pool and the potential for Odisha to emerge as a major player in the startup landscape.

 As momentum continues to build, Odisha’s startup ecosystem is evolving into a powerhouse of innovation. The state’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and providing a platform for young minds to flourish has set the stage for a brighter, more dynamic future.

 Startup Yatra and Startup Express have not only sowed the seeds of innovation but have also nurtured the fertile ground for these ideas to take root and grow. The journey has just begun, and as these startups continue to blossom, Odisha is poised to become a beacon of creativity and entrepreneurship in the ever-evolving landscape of the Indian startup ecosystem.

 In this evolving narrative, the young minds of Odisha are not just dreamers; they are architects of a future where innovation is the currency, and entrepreneurship is the language of change. The journey has just begun, and as these startups continue to blossom, Odisha is poised to become a beacon of creativity and entrepreneurship in the ever-evolving landscape of the Indian startup ecosystem.

Dr Santosh G Honavar, Director, Ophthalmic and Facial Plastic Surgery and Ocular Oncology Centre For Sight, Hyderabad

In a world where discussions around cancer often revolve around more common forms, it’s imperative to bring attention to the silent yet impactful realm of eye cancer. The uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, known colloquially as a tumor, can manifest within the eye or at remote locations, posing a profound psycho-social and economic impact on the affected individuals and their loved ones.

Eye cancer, though not as prevalent in public discourse, carries the weight of affecting life from the very first cry to the last breath. Its occurrence is notably higher in individuals with a familial history of cancer, hinting at the genetic predisposition of certain eye cancers.

The origin of eye cancer may vary, ranging from tissues constituting and protecting the eye to locations distant from the eye. Notably, cancers from other parts of the body, such as breast, lung, or gut, can metastasize through the bloodstream, affecting one or both eyes. Some of these eye-originating cancers possess a propensity to spread to vital organs like the liver, bone, and brain, underlining the critical importance of early detection and timely intervention.

The significance of eye examination is a pivotal tool for early detection. The eye, being the only organ allowing direct visualization of cancer, serves as the first information report (F.I.R) to a concealed crime scene within the body.

Recognizing symptoms such as a white reflex in a newborn’s eye, discolouration on the white part of the eye, red-pink coloured discoloration around the eye, changes in the size or color of eye surface bumps, persistent redness or pain, and any bulging of the eye, warrants an immediate consultation with an ophthalmologist. The importance of a simple photograph can aid both patients and doctors to understand the progression of the condition, providing a valuable visual reference for treatment planning.

Harnessing the power of technology, internet becomes a valuable ally in the pursuit of eye cancer management. Internet can help individuals find an ophthalmologist trained in treating eye cancers, while Photos enables a visual before-and-after comparison of treatment outcomes. Calendars play a role in scheduling regular check-ups, fostering a sense of community and support.

Centre For Sight Group of Eye Hospitals , pledges to make every effort to address eye cancer with a commitment to life, eye, and vision salvage. As a call to action, Centre For Sight urges for a collective and tireless efforts with unwavering faith in our abilities to achieve years of disease-free and happy living.

Hyderabad, 05th February 2024: Resonance School of Excellence – Hyderabad; Experts in IIT-JEE & NEET, Patancheruvu, Hyderabad – Experts in JEE (Mains + Advanced) & other Engineering, Medical, Commerce, Law entrance examinations; hosted their Annual Day celebrations with the theme of ‘Reso Darpan’ today at Patancheruvu. Chief Guests Sri Yandamuri Veerendranath, Indian writer; Sri P.P Rathod, MEO, Patancheruvu; Sri Ravinder Reddy, SHO, Bhanur PS; Special Guests Abhignya and Miss Perfect Movie Team; and Sri Purnachandra Rao, Managing Director, Resonance Educational Institutions, Telangana and AP; graced the occasion, today at Resonance Gurukul Campus, Patancheruvu. Over 1200 students including families of the learners and the entire Resonance team attended the event.

Sri Yandamuri Veerendranath said, we want our kids to be successful in life, but we ourselves don’t know what success means. For me success means being happy always, identify and inculcate those ways to be happy.

Actor Abhignya said, we should not take education for granted, at least we should have basic education in life, it gives us the necessary confidence, speaking skills and the courage to dream big. So do not lose the opportunity to build your foundation in the school, make amazing friendships and most importantly learn to respect one and another, these basics will take you to places in life.     

Speaking on the occasion, Sri Purnachandra Rao, we are delighted to celebrate our Annual Day, Reso Darpan. Over the past two years, Resonance School of Excellence has been a beacon of academic and holistic education. Our commitment extends beyond textbooks to embrace our rich culture, sports, and various extracurricular activities. At the heart of our educational philosophy lies the pursuit of balance. Our school places great emphasis on celebrating every success, whether big or small. We believe in providing mentorship that goes beyond the confines of the classroom. 

It’s a journey where achievements are not just acknowledged but celebrated with enthusiasm. Our dedicated teachers play a pivotal role, guiding and inspiring our students, ensuring that each one reaches their full potential. Their unwavering commitment is the cornerstone of our success. In the Resonance School of Excellence, motivation and care are not just buzzwords; they are integral aspects of our approach. We foster an environment that encourages students to grow not only academically but also personally. 

Tonight, we take a moment to bask in the glow of our collective achievements. From academic milestones to exemplary performances in sports and other activities, each success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students. Amidst the rigors of academic life, we also cherish the fun moments that make school memorable. The uniqueness of each student adds vibrancy to our community, making us a diverse and dynamic family. 

A heartfelt thank you to the parents who entrust us with their children’s education and partner with us in this journey. Equally, a profound appreciation for our teachers who go above and beyond to nurture young minds. 

Today, we raise a toast to the resilience that defines our students, the camaraderie that unites us, and the shared successes that make our journey exceptional. Each one of you is an integral part of our extraordinary story. As we conclude this joyous celebration, let’s carry the spirit of Reso Darpan forward, knowing that together, we create a brighter future. Thank you for being a vital part of our remarkable journey.