Archives February 2024

12th February, Kolkata: Sawansukha Jewellers, an eight-generation legacy jewellery house based in Kolkata & Siliguri, has launched an emotional jewellery collection called “Hugs”. This is a limited edited collection of chic pendants that forms a shape of hug. This exclusive collection is a celebration of bonds we share with our family and friends. It is available in white, yellow & rose gold and studded with finest quality diamonds. As a token of love, these pendants help you stay close to the people you love even when you are not physically present with them. The stunning pendants emanates pure connection and elegance made with 18kt gold. Speaking about the launch of “Hugs” collection, Siddhartha Sawansukha, MD, Sawansukha Jewellers said, Sawansukha always think a step ahead to give our customers designs that are unique and stylish. “Hugs” is an emotional jewellery made by Sawansukha, specially designed to highlight bond and emotional connection between two individuals. The meticulously crafted pendants have two designs- one has a shape of two arms meeting together and other pendant has a shape of two people hugging each other. The collection is sure to add panache and extend warmth to the wearer. We hope “Hugs” continue to celebrate connections, bond and emotions. Sawansukha added. These pendants can be personalized as per customer’s choice. Anyone can easily engrave their loved one’s name in the pendant itself. This collection is available in all Sawansukha stores. About Sawansukha: Sawansukha has a reigning history of eight generations as the house belongs to the beautiful royal state of Rajasthan. Today, well established in jewellery industry as one of India’s leading jewellers, with precision quality systems ensure right standards and also ensure the right quality and value to our customers. Our range comprises exclusive Calcutta craftsmanship in gold, platinum, diamond, jadau. Our collection includes Diamond jewellery, gold jewellery, Casual wear jewellery, Exquisite jadau/polki jewellery, Solitaire rings and Men’s jewellery. Our operation extends from manufacture, design, retailing, export and wholesale to Singapore, USA, UAE, UK and Bahrain. We are honoured and grateful to our well-wishers for showing immense faith in us which leads us to win 87 international and national awards. Last but not in the least we have established Sawansukha Institute of Gemology & Jewellery Design, flourishing and introducing award-winning young professionals in the industry for over a decade.

Pune, February 2024 – Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi, in collaboration with the Federation of Classic Car Clubs of India (FCCCI), proudly hosted the highly anticipated Mega Meet 2024. This grand gathering witnessed people from Pune, Mumbai & Goa and showcased over 80 vintage Fiat cars etc. The Mega Meet kicked off with a breathtaking display of meticulously restored vintage Fiat cars, each narrating a unique story of automotive history. Classic models spanning decades captivated the audience, celebrating the timeless charm and beauty of these iconic automobiles.

The highlight of the event was the Vintage Brunch hosted by Radisson Blu, where attendees were treated to a sumptuous feast. Esteemed personalities, influencers, and well-known figures from various industries joined the celebration, engaging in lively conversations and relishing the culinary delights offered.

 Dr. Patnaik, a distinguished figure in the vintage car community, graced the occasion, adding to the glamour of the event. His presence not only highlighted the significance of the Mega Meet 2024 but also showcased the shared passion for preserving automotive heritage. Dr. Patnaik, also expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming response by the guests and emphasized the importance of preserving automotive heritage.

 “The Mega Meet 2024 not only celebrated the beauty of vintage Fiat cars but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among enthusiasts. We are delighted to partner with FCCCI, and extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants and attendees for making this event a resounding success. Said Amit Raman- Hotel Manager, Radisson Blu Pune”

 The collaboration between Radisson Blu and FCCCI underscores a shared commitment to promoting cultural heritage and providing memorable experiences for enthusiasts and the community at large.

 The Federation of Classic Car Clubs of India (FCCCI) is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of vintage cars in India. Through events and collaborations, FCCCI aims to create a platform for enthusiasts to come together and celebrate their shared love for classic automobiles.

 Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi, a luxury hotel nestled in the heart of Pune, is committed to
providing unparalleled experiences to its guests. With a focus on cultural and community
engagement, the hotel takes pride in hosting events that celebrate heritage and passion, such as the Mega Meet 2024.

Mumbai, February 12th, 2024, | Konica Minolta, leading global provider of industrial, production, and digital print solutions, is excited to announce its successful participation at PAMEX 2024, held from February 6th to 8th at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon. Building on the triumph of its 2023 participation, Konica Minolta showcased an extensive lineup of innovative print solutions at Stall No. C30 & C32, Hall No. 1.

The exhibition featured an impressive range of products, including the following:

1. AccurioPress C12000 with IQ 501: Konica Minolta’s revolutionary AccurioPress C12000, equipped with inbuilt automated print technologies and IQ 501, delivers unparalleled productivity and consistent print quality. Boasting Perfect Image and durable performance, this print engine ensures efficiency with automated engine linearization, duplex registration, profiling, real-time adjustments.
2. AccurioLabel 400: Key advancements in the latest AccurioLabel 400 press encompass the capacity to broaden application possibilities using white toner, and additional cost savings through increased durability of components, coupled with various media acceptability and printing of 3000 linear meter in a single job.
3. AccurioShine 3600 with iFoil: Konica Minolta presents the AccurioShine 3600, enabling businesses to transform standard print jobs into engaging products. This solution offers 2D spot UV and textured 3D varnish effects, contributing to enhanced brand identity and powerful printed communications.
4. AccurioPress C7100: The AccurioPress C7100, a CMYK cut-sheet toner press, redefines agility, offering excellent quality imagery, long sheet printing capabilities, reliable thin paper feeding, envelope printing, and embossed paper support.
5. AccurioPress C4080: The AccurioPress C4080 series serves as a versatile press, supporting flat sheets, duplex long sheets up to 864mm, and inline finishing options. With production of 45 A3 in a minute, leads to higher productivity.
6. AccurioPress C4065: The AccurioPress C4065 showcases durable performance with up to 66 A4 colour pages per minute and 37 A3, 2-sided banner printing, and sophisticated media handling. This compact production press printer offers high-end print control and various finishing options.
7. AccurioPrint 6136: Konica Minolta introduces the AccurioPrint 6136 series, a high-end monochrome production press with features such as high productivity with coated and uncoated media, flexible paper handling, and high-function finisher group, catering to the demands of publication houses and POD’s.
8. DPR SCORPIO SCR35PL Digital Label Finishers: The SCR35PL is the perfect match for wide-format digital colour label presses, offering versatility, different roll widths, outer diameters, shapes, and sizes. This all-in-one system provides accurate label finishing using cutting plotter technology, allowing for on-demand short-run label finishing.
9. Accurio Shine 101: Rethinking value-added printing, the AccurioShine 101 delivers high quality and simple operation. Featuring Konica Minolta’s offline foil.

 Commenting on the exhibition, Mr. Katsuhisa Asari, Managing Director, Konica Minolta Business Solutions India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Beyond showcasing our advanced print solutions, PAMEX 2024 presented a unique opportunity to forge collaborations with key industry players. We look forward to converting the partnerships that align with our vision of democratizing cutting-edge print technology. Our goal is to extend the reach of our innovative solutions to small and medium businesses, empowering them with the tools they need to compete effectively. PAMEX 2024 served as a crucial platform for knowledge sharing and industry engagement, allowing us to directly connect with businesses and understand their specific needs.”

Konica Minolta strived to deliver visitors with our vision for the future of printing at PAMEX 2024 Mumbai. We rely on these solutions’ potential to help small and medium print service providers to amplify efficiency and productivity, enhance print quality and consistency, expand service offerings, and reduce environmental impact.

In its 375^th meeting held on 10 February, 2024, ONGC Board approved the results for Third Quarter (Q3) of FY 2023-24.

Details are as under:

1. Financial Performance (Consolidated)

 2. Financial Performance (Standalone)

3. Dividend

Board has approved 2^nd interim dividend of 80%, i.e. ₹ 4.00 on each equity share of ₹5.00 The total payout on this account will be ₹ 5,032 Crore. The Record date for distribution of dividend has been fixed for 17^th February, 2024 which has been intimated to the stock exchanges. This is in addition to 1^st interim dividend of ₹ 5.75 per share(115%) declared earlier in Nov,2023.

4. Production Performance

The reduction in ONGC’s production output in 9M FY 2023-24 was due to:

1. Shutdown in Panna-Mukta offshore platforms for commissioning of new crude oil pipeline to modernise its evacuation facilities, post taking over from JV Partners.
2. Cyclone Biparjoy (June 2023) disrupted offshore and onshore production.
3. Crude oil production of a Southern Asset was hampered as a refinery stopped receiving oil, following a leakage in their pipeline.
4. Natural decline from Mature fields

To counter the decline in production from some of the matured and marginal fields, ONGC is taking proactive steps by implementing well interventions and advancing new well drilling activities. The decline in production from matured fields will be compensated in upcoming quarters with commencement of additional production

from upcoming projects, which are under various stages of development; Crude oil production already commenced from KG-DWN-98/2 Block on 7 January 2024.

5. Exploratory Success

ONGC has declared total 09 discoveries (04 in Onland and 05 in Offshore) during FY 2023-24 in its operated acreages. Out of these, 05 are prospects (Offshore) and 04 in Onland are New Pools.

ONGC has monetized 6 discoveries till date during FY 2023-24, viz Gopavaram-21(FY 2023-24), South Mahadevapatinam-2 (FY 2023-24), Karugorumilli-1 (FY 2022-23), Gojalia-13 (FY 2011-12), KG-DWN-98/2–M-1(Padmawati)(FY 2001-02) and KG-DWN-98/2–M-3 (FY 2013-14). 

6. Highlights:  

i.     ONGC announced the successful commencement of “First Oil” from the deep-water KG-DWN-98/2 Block, situated off the coast of Bay of Bengal  on 7 January 2024. 

ii.    Mandapeta Field of Rajahmundry Asset crosses 1.0 MMSCMD gas production mark on 5 October 2023, the highest-ever since inception of the field in 1994, through reservoir characterization & proper well placement, high-volume fracking and timely augmentation of production facilities.

iii.   Hon’ble Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs inaugurated state-of-the-art digital Corporate Visualization Center, ‘ONGC DARPAN’, in New Delhi. This first-of-its-kind digital hub in India will enable monitoring of the oil and gas wells and drilling units (including offshore) centrally on a real-time basis. 

iv.   MoPNG approved ONGC proposal to form a 100% subsidiary company for green energy and gas business. The wholly-owned subsidiary company shall be engaged into the business of value-chains of energy business viz. Green Hydrogen, Hydrogen blending, Renewable Energy (Solar, Wind and Hybrid etc.), Bio-fuels/ Bio-gas business and LNG. 

v.    In a major step towards e-governance and ease of doing business, ONGC as first beneficiary of National E-Governance Services Ltd. (NeSL) implemented B2B integration with NeSL for Electronic Bank Guarantees (eBG). 

vi.   ONGC has developed Next-gen Acidizing Formulation ‘SPRAS’ for Stimulation of Western Offshore Carbonate Reservoirs to overcome the challenges faced by using Hydrochloric acid (HCl) in matrix stimulation in carbonate reservoirs, which slows down the rate of reaction by using retarding surfactants and completely eliminates the use of diesel.

vii.  ONGC inked contract with IIT-B, Mumbai to boost carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) research and development in ONGC. This collaboration marks a significant step in furthering the cause of CCUS, in line with the Net-Zero ONGC-2038 vision.

viii. ONGC has been awarded seven blocks measuring 30,341.72 Sq. Km. area under OALP bid round-VIII. The awarded area contains Onland, Shallow water, Deep water and Ultra-Deepwater blocks.

ix.   ONGC launched a significant business process initiative with the inauguration of the ONGC Shared Finance Services in collaboration with IBM Consulting. This will centralize and standardise all vendor payments of ONGC, accelerating the processes. 

x.    ONGC commences cargo dispatch to Mumbai Offshore from Karanja Port to support the increasing scale of operations in the Western Offshore and upgrade the Nhava Supply Base (NSB) without affecting the logistics supply chain to Mumbai Offshore. 

Awards  

i. The Hon’ble Vice-President of India presented the SCOPE Eminence Awards 2019-20 to ONGC for commendable achievements in Environmental Excellence & Sustainable Development on 18^th Jan 2024.

DPS Indirapuram hosted a comprehensive self-defence workshop, ‘KAVACH,’ to equip the teachers with vital self-defence skills against various threats. The workshop, held for teachers from Nursery to XII classes, focused on empowering women with practical techniques to combat threats such as street attacks, bullying, and eve-teasing.

The event delved into differentiating self-defence from martial arts, emphasising practical aspects, including attire selection, handling multiple attackers, and creating realistic scenarios for training. The workshop aimed to promote women’s empowerment through enhanced personal security, highlighting the importance of mats for safe practice and refining reflexes.

Live demonstrations by expert trainers showcased various self-defence techniques and strategies to reinforce theoretical knowledge. Participants actively engaged in dry drills, learning common self-defence techniques to bolster their confidence and readiness in real-life situations. The workshop concluded with participants emerging with increased confidence, equipped to navigate their daily lives with an enhanced sense of personal security.

Commenting on the success of the workshop, Ms. Priya John, Principal, DPS Indirapuram, stated, “The ‘KAVACH’ workshop was a transformative experience for our faculty. Equipping them with essential self-defence skills not only enhances their personal safety but also empowers them to create a safer environment for our students. We are committed to fostering a culture of preparedness and empowerment within our school community.”

As the season of love approaches, Lagu Bandhu, a distinguished name in the realm of exquisite jewellery, is delighted to unveil its latest creation for Valentine’s Day – the “Love Forever” collection. This affordable yet luxurious assortment is carefully curated to convey the perfect embodiment of love through meticulously crafted diamond jewellery pieces.

The Love Forever collection showcases a captivating array of pendants, earrings, necklaces, rings, chains, and bracelets. Each piece is intricately designed to encapsulate the essence of enduring love, making it an ideal choice for those seeking the perfect gift for their loved ones.

Starting at just Rs. 20,000, Love Forever by Lagu Bandhu exemplifies the brand’s commitment to delivering high-quality, budget-friendly diamond jewellery. More than just accessories, these pieces are meaningful tokens of affection that symbolize the everlasting nature of love. The collection includes diamond-cut motifs such as flowers, leaves, squares, and elegantly simple designs, enhanced with gold and rose gold accents. These pieces are designed to be worn effortlessly by women in their daily lives, adding a touch of timeless elegance to any occasion.

Mr. Parag Lagu, Director at Lagu Bandhu, expressed his enthusiasm for the Love Forever collection, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce the Love Forever collection, a selection of affordable yet exquisite diamond jewellery pieces. Acknowledging the significance of conveying love especially during the dedicated month of love, our aim is to offer customers beautiful jewellery that aligns with their budget. This collection will serve as a cherished symbol of affection for their special someone.”

Lagu Bandhu’s unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship and affordability ensures that each piece in the collection becomes a timeless symbol of love. This Valentine’s Day, Lagu Bandhu warmly invites you to explore the Love Forever collection and revel in the joy of gifting with exquisite diamond jewellery that captures the essence of everlasting love.

New Delhi, India  February 12th, 2024: The second day of The Times Group presents ET Now Global Business Summit 2024 saw some thought-provoking and insightful conversations by some of the most important thought leaders and decision-makers in the Indian and global business scenario.

Yogi, Mystic and Visionary Sadhguru set the tone for the day’s conversation through his discourse on ‘Wealth &well-being’ where hehighlighted the importance of holistic growth not just of self but also of the planet that we live on. He said, “Well-being encompasses anything that contributes to your sense of wellness and can arise from various experiences. While you may accumulate possessions and achievements, they are external to your true self. Once you begin to identify with what you gather, you inevitably attach value to it. It is crucial to grasp that achieving well-being requires adherence to proper procedures. There exists a scientific and systematic methodology for this endeavor. Without following this approach, well-being remains merely an elusive dream.”

This was followed by an invigorating conversation with Amit Shah, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Government of India who gave the audience a glimpse of the government’s plans for the future of India. During his conversation, he said, “BJP has its ideology and agenda in the right place. People join and people leave, and it is natural. I believe in family planning, but in politics, it is always about the more the merrier.  We consistently strive to reform systems that are both feasible and optimally tailored for the evolving landscape of New India. Our government’s clear policy is to have a robust dialogue with each stakeholder to resolve and address any kind of issue that is prevailing in the country. Our agenda for New India will be. Zero tolerance against corruption, end terrorism for the safety of the country.”

Ashwini VaishnawMinister of Railways, Communications, and Electronics & Information Technology shared the transformative plans and upgrades in the railway infrastructure. His account of the speed at which the infrastructure is developing within the country had the audience captivated with a round of applause that lasted for minutes together. He said, “Significant strides have been made to modernize and upgrade the nation’s railway infrastructure, reflecting Prime Minister Modi’s forward-thinking vision spanning the next five decades. Under his leadership, there’s been a remarkable transformation in bureaucratic processes, exemplified by the remarkable progress within the railway sector. Efforts are underway to further enhance and refine the Vande Bharat trains, intending to eventually export these cutting-edge trains to other nations, showcasing India’s prowess in railway technology.”

Highlighting the numerous investment opportunities that India presented, Lord Gerry Grimstone, Chairman, Gemcorp Capital Management & former U.K. Minister for Investment, said, ” In the last three years, India has provided investment opportunities like never before. The past 20 years, saw a twofold surge in foreign investment. The ease of doing business, tax reforms, economic changes, and a ‘welcoming attitude’ has made India one of the most attractive destinations in the world for foreign investment.”

He also spoke about the progress that the country has made in the 5G rollout. “The rapid rollout of 5G, achieved in just 16 months with domestically produced equipment, is a testament to India’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. Moving forward, our technology will rival global standards, positioning India as a competitive player in the most advanced sectors” he added.

Conversations around diverse topics such as artificial intelligence, financial literacy, investments in emerging startups, and female inclusion dominated the second day of the summit. Emerging technologies and their contribution to every walk of life right from education, healthcare, and businesses at large were discussed. One of the most important points that was highlighted was that businesses need to understand the changes that have been brought about in new India to realize its full potential.  The panelists emphasized that the biggest issue that the world is facing is that of climate change and the need for businesses to address this and make it a part of their overall strategy. It was agreed that a seamless collaboration between emerging technologies and human intelligence was the only way towards a better tomorrow.

Kolkata, 12th February, 2024: On Saturday, an evening of transcendent musical performances unfolded at the prestigious Vivekananda Hall of The Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture, Kolkata as renowned artists gathered to create an enchanting atmosphere celebrating Peace & Harmony. This one-of-a-kind musical extravaganza, presented by Rhythm Express, Global Art Presenter (Kolkata) & Kalyani Roy Memorial Trust, showcased the brilliance of Tabla Maestro, Prodyut Mukherjee (Grammy Jury Member & GIMA Award Winner), Singer, Shri Asish Chatterjee and Sitar Virtuoso, Pt. Partha Bose, mesmerizing the audience with their exceptional talents.

The event was graced by distinguished personalities including Mr. Shyam Pandey (Founder & CEO, IPAF – International Performing Arts Festival), Dr Sayan Bhattacharya (Education Officer, Indian Museum), Ms Alokananda Roy (Renowned Dancer), Ms. Riddhi Bandopadhyay (Renowned Singer) and Mr. Gautam De (Former Regional Director, ICCR).

Starting off the evening’s performances, Shri Ashish Chatterjee captivated the audience with soul-stirring renditions of Devotional Songs like Amay Ektu Jayga Dao, Mayer Mondire Bosi & Khelicho E Biswa Loye, setting the tone for an evening filled with spiritual resonance and emotional depth.

Following Chatterjee’s emotive performance, Pt. Prodyut Mukherjee took center stage, and presented an enthralling showcase of ‘The Art of Percussion’. With intricate rhythms and masterful precision, Mukherjee’s performance exemplified the rich tradition and virtuosity of Indian classical music, leaving the audience spellbound. He brought out various outstanding sound effects in Tabla, such as Movement of two trains side by side on track, the sound of Conch Blowing, Winds and many more.

Closing the evening on a sublime note, Pt. Partha Bose enraptured the audience with a captivating performance, weaving melodies that transcended barriers of language and culture, and evoking a sense of unity and harmony. He was also joined by Pt. Prodyut Mukherjee and their Jugalbandi presented SHANTI DHWANI based on Raga Gaoti, SHRINGAR – Dhun based on Raga Mishra Pilu & RANGEELA RITU – dhun based on Raga Kirwani, tributing the same to the season of Spring.

“‘Peace & Harmony’ serves as a testament to the unifying power of music and art. In a world often divided by differences, events like these remind us of our shared humanity and the universal language of creativity. The performances tonight were not just displays of skill but expressions of the soul. Each artist brought a unique perspective, yet together, they created a harmonious tapestry of sound and emotion”, said Tabla Maestro, Prodyut Mukherjee.

As the curtains fell on Peace & Harmony, the audience departed with hearts uplifted and spirits renewed, reminded of the transformative power of music to unite, inspire and transcend.

Pune 12th February 2024: The Indian Leadership Summit & Awards 2024, organized by The Business Fame, concluded successfully, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of leadership and innovation in India. Held on February 10th at the Four Points By Sheraton in Pune, the event brought together industry leaders, professionals, and visionaries for a day of insightful discussions, knowledge-sharing, and recognition of outstanding achievements.

The summit, held under the theme “Empowering Visions, Inspiring Leaders: Shaping India’s Future,” featured a lineup of distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and insights on navigating the complexities of today’s business landscape. Keynote speaker Dr. Vishal Gandhi, along with panelists from diverse sectors, provided invaluable perspectives on leadership, innovation, and the path forward for India’s industries.

Mr. Ajay Bairagi, Director & Founder and Harshal Gawale Founder & Head of Events played key roles in organizing and carrying out the Indian Leadership Summit & Awards 2024 with precision and dedication.

Guests:

1. Dr.Vishal Gandhi, Angel Investor & CEO, BioRx Venture Advisors Pvt Ltd
2. Vandana Shah, Author, Lawyer, Social Entrepreneur
3. Pradip Kopardikar, Kirloskar Group of companies

In opening remarks, Harshal Gawale, Founder and head of Events of The Business Fame said,” Vision behind starting The Business Fame magazine was to provide platform for all type of business and entrepreneurs to showcase their achievements, services and future plans. Our client’s trust and appreciation motivated us to take one step ahead and organize Indian Leadership Summit & Awards. I’m excited to offer this opportunity to business community to get together and celebrate success and share the knowledge.

While expressing the gratitude Mr. Ajay Bairagi, Director & Founder of The Business Fame said, “The spirit of innovation and commitment that inspired the Indian Leadership Summit & Awards 2024 is a factor that really moves me as we approach its conclusion. Having leaders, visionaries, and business pioneers come together to lead the nation toward a better future is inspiring. This summit is a perfect example of our steadfast dedication to encouraging leadership, cultivating excellence, and promoting good change. We deeply appreciate everyone who helped make it happen, and I look forward to carrying on with you on this path of development and change.”

The summit, held under the theme “Empowering Visions, Inspiring Leaders: Shaping India’s Future,” featured a lineup of distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and insights on

navigating the complexities of today’s business landscape. Keynote speaker Dr. Vishal Gandhi, along with panelists from diverse sectors, provided invaluable perspectives on leadership, innovation, and the path forward for India’s industries.

Among the notable speakers were Zahid Gawandi, Head, of Marketing & Communication, SBI Securities, Nitin Athavle (GM), Rachana Lifestyle, Mr, Nitin Paliwal, GM, Bangur Cement, Vinod Shete, CFO, Chandukaka Saraf and many others. Their contributions enriched the summit with thought-provoking discussions and actionable insights for attendees.

During the event, renowned businesses and people who have exhibited exceptional leadership and innovation in their respective domains were also honored. Prominent companies that demonstrate quality and innovation in their operations, like L&T Construction, Galderma India Pvt. Ltd., TATA Steel Limited, and CarTrade Tech Limited, were recognized as outstanding award recipients.

Kolkata, 12th February 2024: On the second day of Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival, celebrated environmental artist and writer Louise Fowler Smith and environmentalist and ornithologist Tara Gandhi were in conversation with environmental activist and writer, Bittu Sahgal in the session ‘Green Earth’ themed around Climate Change. The session was supported by the honorary Australian Consulate-General, Kolkata.

The discussion dived deep into the intersections of their respective fields exploring vital environmental concerns and new perspectives. During the session, Louise Fowler Smith captivated the audience with her book ‘Sacred Trees of India: Adornment and Adorations an Alternative to the Commodification of Nature’ presenting awe-inspiring images of trees being revered in remote corners of the country.

During the discussion, ornithologist, environmentalist, founder and life trustee of WTI, Tara Gandhi, rightly said, “It’s high time that we all come forward as activists and treat the environmental issues with urgency to reverse the effects on the planet. When I was young there was a poignant curiosity among children to know or point out a bird which has been noticed. But nowadays it’s become scarce to notice even sparrows in cities let alone getting curious about knowing about them, a hobby which was inculcated in us by Dr. Salim Ali through his book ‘The Book of Indian Birds’. A subtle change if we look at it but it speaks volumes about the environmental change which started taking place decades ago.”

The panel also discussed how deforestation poses a fundamental threat to ecological sustainability and to the continuation of life on earth. Through her book author Louise Fowler Smith reiterated on the causes of reversing deforestation to achieve NET ZERO which has been a global goal for the countries worldwide. Her journey through parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Assam and Orissa to observe how trees were worshipped, adorned and ornamented for generations, a tradition deep rooted in India, which has been significantly able to protect the environment.

Moderator, Bittu Sahgal skillfully facilitated the discussion, navigating through various aspects of climate change and its detrimental impact on the ecosystem. The panel discussed pressing issues surrounding the environment, shedding light on the urgent need for collective action and the potential consequences if we fail to address these challenges effectively.