Archives March 2024

Secret Haircare continually embarks on a journey that delves deeper into crafting products that incorporate hidden treasures of Ayurveda. Seamlessly combining and infusing the essence of pure and natural ingredients, the newest Henna Powder launched is chemical and synthetic additives free. Secret Haircare’s Henna Powder is derived from the finest henna leaves, which is meticulously sun-dried to preserve its natural potency, offering a convenient solution to achieving stunning long-lasting color.

Dating back to centuries, henna has been an integral part of Indian rituals and celebrations and has gradually found its way into hair care rituals. Known for its natural dyeing properties, henna became a staple for achieving natural hues while conditioning and nourishing the hair. Secret Haircare pays homage to this rich legacy by carefully crafting its Henna Powder through the traditional methods of sun drying. This technique caters to ensuring maximum effectiveness but also eliminates the necessity for artificial additives or preservatives, aligning its commitment to a chemical-free approach. Furthermore, the sun drying process elevates the overall quality of the henna powder, delivering an authentic and nourishing hair coloring experience.

For optimal results, soak an ample amount of henna powder in black tea water for 3-4 hours or overnight. Apply the mix evenly, let it stay for 2-3 hours, and rinse with plain water (no shampoo). After application, oil your hair overnight and wash with a mild shampoo the next day, and skip shampooing on the application day for better results.

With an aim towards curating a diverse range of natural and cruelty- free products, the newly launched Henna Powder is indeed the perfect addition for healthy and radiant locks.

Kolkata, 12th March 2024: Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) organises its 15th Mutual Fund Summit to discuss Asset and Wealth Management 4.0 embracing exponential changes, through the experts. The session witnessed valuable insights from Amarjeet Singh, Whole Time Member, SEBI; Venkat Nageshwar Chalasani, Chief Executive, AMFI; Brij Bhushan Agarwal, Vice President, Indian Chamber of Commerce; Kailash Kulkarni, CEO, HSBC Mutual Fund, India; Hemant Daga, Co-Founder and CEO, Neo Asset Management; and Atanu Sen, Chairman, ICC National Expert Committee- BFSI, Former MD and CEO, SBI Life Insurance Co Ltd and Former Deputy MD, State Bank of India.

While delivering the welcome speech, Vice President, Indian Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Brij Bhushan Agarwal, said, “Over the past two decades, this sector has witnessed remarkable growth, becoming a crucial avenue for asset management, channeling the savings of millions into equity and debt instruments. In January 2024, the industry experienced a significant surge in Assets Under Management (AUM), reaching approximately INR 52.9 lakh crore, reflecting a notable month-to-month rise of around 3.5%, primarily fueled by systematic investment plans (SIPs) indicating increasing retail participation. In this rapidly evolving financial landscape, technology, particularly digitalisation, is playing a transformative role with the industry leveraging techniques like artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance customer experience and streamline investment processes. With technology and data advancements, personalised investment advice tailored to individual goals is becoming the norm alongside a growing trend towards passive investing driven by preferences for lower-cost options. Regulatory bodies like the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) are actively engaged, introducing frameworks such as “MF Lite” for passive funds to reduce compliance burdens and foster market confidence. Recent regulatory measures including scheme categorisation, rationalisation and the introduction of Total Expense Ratio (TER) aim to enhance transparency and protect investor interests. As investors diversify portfolios and explore alternate asset classes, the industry is poised to expand offerings. As the industry evolves, collaboration between stakeholders and regulators will be key to ensuring sustainable growth and investor protection.”

While commenting on the Mutual Fund Policy and Supervision, Mr. Amarjeet Singh, Whole Time Member, SEBI, said “In the realm of the mutual fund industry, there has been notable growth, underscoring a compelling narrative. It’s imperative to emphasise key points to underscore their significance, with a particular focus on the often-overlooked aspect of supervision, crucial for maintaining market integrity. While industry trends remain visible, the supervisory efforts undertaken by entities are equally vital yet less conspicuous. Over the period from March 2020 to January 2024, the number of unique investors in the mutual fund industry surged from approximately 2.92 crores to nearly 5 crores, indicating an annual growth trajectory of approximately 15%. Noteworthy is the significant contribution from regions like West Bengal, mainly Kolkata. Although Kolkata may not rank among the top 30 cities targeted for market penetration, its AUM contribution ranks among the top five cities, comprising 3.6% of the total. However, given the substantial population size of Kolkata or West Bengal, there exists room for further enhancement in their mutual fund investment contribution, highlighting the potential for greater penetration and market development. While acknowledging past achievements, it’s essential to identify opportunities for improvement and continued growth, particularly in regions like Kolkata, West Bengal.”

While speaking on Inspiring Practices for Mutual Fund and Supervision, Mr. Venkat Nageshwar Chalasani, Chief Executive, AMFI, stated, “The mutual fund industry has experienced remarkable expansion, witnessing assets under management (AUM) surge to approximately 54 lakh crores by February 2024, a substantial rise from 10,00,000 crores in 2014. Our primary objective is to sustain this growth trajectory, targeting the engagement of 10 crores or more investors in the industry. Currently, retail investors’ savings exhibit diversification, with 44% allocated to real estate, 22% to gold, and the remaining 34% to financial instruments, among which mutual funds capture only around 2%. To reach our goal, we aim to increase this share to 5%, potentially reaching 100 lakh crores soon. Sustainable growth necessitates disciplined investment and a well-regulated market with investor protection at its core. The Indian mutual funds industry emphasises regulatory oversight to safeguard investors supported by initiatives such as stringent regulatory processes and compliance guidelines. While celebrating our achievements, our primary focus remains on nurturing sustainable growth and ensuring investor protection. With the collaboration of regulators and industry stakeholders, we hold confidence in the future trajectory of the mutual fund industry in India.”

Discussing Deeper Dive on Debt Mutual funds, Mr. Kailash Kulkarni, CEO, HSBC Mutual Fund, India, stated, “Despite India’s substantial bank deposits exceeding approx. 202 lakh crores compared to mutual funds, with only 25% of that, the majority of fixed income savings, at approx. 13.8 lakh crores, still gravitate towards bank deposits. This trend is influenced by our sales approach, which tends to prioritise equity investments, inadvertently steering investors away from fixed income perceived as safer. To bridge this gap, a diverse range of fixed-income products tailored to different risk profiles is necessary, including liquid products for short-term needs, shorter-maturity products for stability, and longer-maturity products for higher returns. The opportunity in the bond market is significant, with the proposal from HSBC Mutual Fund’s fixed-income CIO suggesting India could attract $100 billion in fixed-income investments promptly. As of March 2024, there’s substantial potential for growth in the fixed income market by diversifying offerings and aligning them with investors’ risk profiles, thus tapping into an untapped market and fostering significant growth in the mutual fund industry.”

Discussing the Growth & Value Interest, Mr. Hemant Daga, Co-Founder and CEO, Neo Asset Management, stated, “Understanding our own preferences and risk tolerance is crucial before making investment decisions, as there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Equity investing fundamentally involves betting on the future performance of a stock, aiming to identify those with growth potential that exceeds market expectations. Conversely, value investing seeks stocks trading at a discount to their intrinsic value, relying on metrics like low price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios, although the definition of value evolves over time. Data analysis is crucial, as evidenced by our examination of the Indian markets over the past 24 years, where nearly 50% of the time, the market presented opportunities to buy stocks at attractive valuations. Ultimately, investing is a blend of data analysis, emotional intelligence and confidence. Historical data provides insights but considering market dynamics and evolving trends is essential. As we navigate the complexities of growth versus value investing, remaining adaptive and informed is key.”

While delivering the vote of thanks, Mr. Atanu Sen, Chairman, ICC National Expert Committee- BFSI, Former MD and CEO, SBI Life Insurance Co Ltd and Former Deputy MD, State Bank of India, said, ” Reflecting on Kolkata’s remarkable transformation in attitude towards investing, traditionally marred by stigma and perceived risks in ventures such as stock markets, I commend visionaries like Mr. Varun Mukherjee of the Indian Chamber of Commerce for pioneering efforts that reshaped perceptions. Today, there’s a noticeable surge in equity investments, surpassing 16% growth in recent years, alongside traditional avenues like bank deposits and insurance funds. Drawing from my extensive experience across banking, insurance and fund management sectors, I recognise the significance of tailored education and awareness campaigns such as those championed by Hampshire, in shaping investor behaviour. The digital infrastructure’s expansion in India further democratises investing with mutual funds playing a pivotal role in fostering confidence and diversification. As we navigate growth and value investing realms, understanding individual risk profiles becomes paramount and mutual funds offer reliable wealth creation avenues tailored to diverse needs. We should persevere in collaboration and innovation endeavours, driving sustainable growth in the financial landscape.”

New Delhi, 12 March: On International Women’s Day in New Delhi, a profound discussion themed “Women and Mental Health Summit & Awards” was orchestrated by Bharat Dialogues, featuring luminaries such as Dr. Pratima Murthy, director of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Dr. Ranjana Kumari director of the Centre for Social Research, along with distinguished psychiatrists like Dr. Neena Bohra, Dr. Sameer Parikh, Dr. Jitendra Nagpal, and Dr. Kamna Chhibber.

The discourse delved deep into various facets of women’s rights and mental well-being, honouring exceptional individuals and organisations for their commendable contributions in the field. Dr. Pratima Murthy, in her participation at the Bharat Dialogues event, emphasised the pivotal role that socio-economic factors play in nurturing the mental health of women in Indian society. She advocated for policy frameworks that exhibit heightened sensitivity towards women, recognising them as catalysts for change.

Dr. Ranjana Kumari, a revered activist for women’s rights and Director of the Centre for Social Research, highlighted the existing gender disparities in Indian society as impediments to the advancement of women’s mental well-being. In Indian society. Underscoring the dire need for heightened awareness and acceptance of mental health struggles among women, she said, “The response to mental health issues differs significantly based on gender within families. If a son faces such challenges, efforts are made to address and treat the issue promptly; however, the approach markedly changes when a daughter experiences similar struggles. Daughters are often dismissed with accusations of pretence, laziness, or reluctance to work, exacerbating their plight. Women and girls grappling with mental health concerns encounter unwarranted allegations and a lack of understanding.”

The Bharat Dialogues event saw a diverse participation encompassing not only advocates for women’s rights and mental health professionals but also mental health startups, NGOs dedicated to this cause across the nation, and Human Resources leaders from various companies. Enthusiastic engagement was also observed from students representing numerous colleges within Delhi University. Pooja Priyamvada, the co-founder of Bharat Dialogues, addressed the pressing mental health challenges engulfing India, particularly concerning women, lamenting the stagnant progress in this critical domain over recent decades. The dearth of collaboration among stakeholders in mental health has hindered advancements, prompting the initiative to facilitate a collaborative platform for diverse entities to converge and foster mutual support and innovative solutions.

Several commendable individuals and organisations were honoured during the event for their pioneering work in both mental health advocacy and women’s rights, including Amrit Bakshi, the esteemed former president of the Schizophrenia Awareness Association and the dedicated managing trustee of the Rehab Centre. In addition, various individuals and organisations were acknowledged for their significant contributions to the advancement of women’s and mental health. Notable honourees include Aparna Piramal Raje, the author of the renowned book “Chemical Khichadi” focusing on bipolar disorder, eminent TV journalist & CMD and Editor in Chief of Bharat Express News Network, Dr. Itisha Nagar, a former professor at Delhi University, prominent RJ Divya Vasudeva, and health journalist Nitendra Singh from DD News. Among the recognised organisations are Safety App, Menstruapedia, Impact and Dialogue Foundation, Protsahan India, Islamic Research Foundation, Swayam Foundation, Counsel India, Red Dot Foundation, Winni, Sangati Foundation, and Media Mantra.

Bengaluru, 12 March 2024: Tata Technologies, a global engineering and product development digital services company, has signed a 5-year Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Government of Telangana to modernize 65 government-owned ITIs across the state with a total project cost of INR 2324 Crores. This collaboration is an extension of Tata Technologies’ efforts to support projects of high social impact and complement the efforts of the Telangana Government to enhance the availability of skilled talent and attract investments from industries desirous of setting-up manufacturing infrastructure in Telangana. The upgraded Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) will serve as Skill Development Centers, strengthening the technical proficiency and employability of students. By training a workforce that is not only highly skilled in Industry 4.0 tools & technologies but also primed for immediate industry deployment, these centres will stimulate the economic progression and holistic development of the state.

The Telangana government has launched various skill development initiatives to empower its diverse workforce and support the state’s manufacturing and MSME industries. The collaboration between Tata Technologies and the Telangana government will further bolster the government’s efforts toward upskilling the youth and phasing out courses with limited relevance in the evolving industrial landscape.

Tata Technologies is collaborating with 20 global industry partners to upgrade the ITIs, which will offer 8 long-term courses and 23 short-term courses that cater to Industry 4.0 demands, training over 9,000 students on long-term courses and 1,00,000 students on short-term courses annually at full capacity once the ITIs are upgraded. The upgradation and modernization of the ITIs will facilitate upskilling in sectors related to Industry 4.0, Product Design & Development, Product Verification and Virtual analysis, Design for Artisans and Handicrafts, Additive manufacturing (3D printing), Modern Automotive Maintenance Repair and Overhaul, Battery Electric Vehicle Training, IoT and Digital Instrumentation, Process Control and Automation with HMI, PLC SCADA, Advanced Manufacturing and Prototyping, Industrial Robotics with arc welding, AI-based Virtual Welding & Painting, Advanced Plumbing, Digital Meters, Agriculture and Horticulture, and much more.

The MOA signing ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana, A. Revanth Reddy, along with other dignitaries from the Telangana Government and the leadership team of Tata Technologies. The Labour and Employment Department of Telangana briefed the dignitaries about the collaboration program and skill development initiatives.

During the MOA signing event, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana, A. Revanth Reddy, said, “We’re delighted to collaborate with Tata Technologies for the transformation of ITIs into Skill Development Centers that will provide training on in-demand skills leading to better employment opportunities for the local youth. This will transform the state of Telangana into a potential investment destination for all those industry players keen on embracing Industry 4.0 and smart technologies for manufacturing.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Warren Harris, CEO & Managing Director, Tata Technologies, said, “In our endeavor to engineer a better world for our youth, our collaboration with the Telangana Government stands as a testament of our commitment to nurturing talent equipped for tomorrow’s challenges. By harnessing our deep-rooted expertise in product engineering and our comprehensive understanding of the manufacturing domain, we are not just upskilling; we are preparing a workforce ready to innovate within the realms of Industry 4.0. This collaboration symbolizes our pledge to develop skillsets that align with the technological advancements and dynamics of the rapidly transforming ecosystem.”

Speaking at the occasion, Smt. I. Rani Kumudini, IAS, Special Principal Chief Secretary, Govt. of Telangana, said, “Our collaboration with Tata Technologies to upgrade ITIs is aligned with Telangana State Skill Mission (TSSM) & Telangana Academy for Skill & Knowledge (TASK) which targets unemployed youth and recent graduates for training. Equipping them with the latest technologies

will bridge the gap between demand and supply of skilled workforce thereby creating more job opportunities and encouraging the youth to build their careers in the state.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Pawan Bhageria – President, Global HR, IT Admin and Education, Tata Technologies, said, “As India navigates through a wave of technological innovations, we at Tata Technologies are at the forefront, shaping the future of manufacturing and Industry 4.0. Our collaboration with global OEMs and deep understanding of the manufacturing value chain enables us to craft curricula that arm the youth of Telangana with the skills coveted by the industry. Our goal is to deliver comprehensive courses that furnish the essential technological acumen for upskilling, ensuring our future workforce is primed for the unfolding opportunities within the manufacturing sector.”

New Delhi, March 12, 2024: The countdown has begun for the eagerly anticipated 6th Annual CIO Conclave by ETCIO, slated to illuminate the shores of Goa from May 23 to May 26. This year, the conclave throws the spotlight on “The Era of Digital Leadership,” promising a convergence of over 300 insightful sessions, more than 200 collaborating partners, and engaging discussions around the advancements in AI and the journey through digital realms.

The role of leadership for Chief Information Officers (CIOs) is evolving. This residential conclave is tailor-made for technology leaders keen on diving deep into insightful discussions, expanding their professional networks, and exploring the transformative impact of digital leadership in shaping the future. The conclave’s thematic essence is unraveling the multifaceted role of CIOs in this digital epoch. Through panel discussions, fireside chats, and experiential learning sessions, attendees will gain insights into the crux of digital transformation.

The conclave stands as a vibrant platform for fostering collaborations. With over 200 partners and a dedicated agenda for networking, the event ensures enriching exchanges among peers, connecting CIOs with leading IT solutions innovators and paving the way for fruitful collaborations.

Distinguishing itself, the conclave features novel experiential sessions including captivating customer success showcases, an innovation hub, and even culinary networking sessions, promising not just learning but an enjoyable experience. Furthermore, engaging formats like Tech Sangam and Hackathon challenge participants with real-time cases, enhancing the conclave’s value proposition.

With projections from Gartner suggesting that by 2030, 80% of individuals will interact daily with AI, the conclave underscores the imperative role of CIOs in shaping this AI-driven future. The event explores how CIOs can harness AI to propel their organisations forward, reflecting on this digital revolution’s dual challenge and opportunity.

This conclave is not just an event; it’s a journey into the future of digital leadership. It’s an opportunity to witness firsthand the evolving dynamics of the tech world, preparing to steer organisations towards a digitally empowered tomorrow.

Narsapur/ Hyderabad, March 12, 2024….. Endurance test of 47 electric buggies developed by Engineering students for a nationwide competition called eBAJA SAEIndia 24 held on Saturday at Ramachandran Puram village, near BVRIT Narsapur in the city outskirts. The competition was held in the eBAJA Category.

This event aimed to give engineering students an out-of-classroom learning experience and produce industry-ready engineers. All the 47 buggies selected for the endurance test were lined up at poll position. Sri K V Vishnu Raju, Chairman of Sri Vishnu Educational Society (SVES); Aditya Vissam is the Secretary of the Sri Vishnu Educational Society; Sanjay Nibandhe, Chairman, Organising Committee, BAHA SAEINDIA 2024; Dr Vohra is the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and The Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) Distinguished Visiting Professor flagged off the same. The balloons were also released into the air to mark the beginning of the race.

The buggies were inspected by the TI (technical inspection) team finally before the flag-off. The first round was a formation lap and after that, the actual competition began. A tough terrain with big pits, ditches, marshy ground, rubbles, water and all possible obstructions was created to make the journey very tough for the race drivers and vehicles(buggies)

The vehicles which struck were lifted with the support of tractors. They were repaired by their team and buggies were back in action. The competition gave a lot of hands-on practical experience to the students. Two teams out of 47 that qualified were BVRIT, Narsapur in Telangana and Sri Vishnu Institute of Technology for Girls from Bhimavaram.

The competition was held for the first time in Telangana. It was also the first time it was held in South India in Hyderabad at BVRIT. Though the competition has been organised for the past 17 years, it came to Hyderabad thanks to BVRIT. The competition was conducted by SAE India.

71 teams participated from various colleges from across India. Out of which 58 teams cleared technical inspection, 47 qualified in the break test; these were allowed to participate in a 2.2 km, four-hour-long endurance test on Sunday. The team that scored the maximum laps was declared the winner

A special awards presentation ceremony was organised. It was graced by Mr Gopalakrishnan VC, Director, Automotive and EV sector, with Govt. of Telangana. He gave away the awards The winners of many competitions were given prizes. The winning team of the 4-hour endurance competition were DY Patil College of Engineering, Akurdi; Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering, Pune and Sri Vishnu Institute of Engineering, Bhimavaram, were first, second and third prize winners respectively.

They addressing the gathering after the awards presentation, the Chief Guest Mr Gopalakrishnan VC, Director, Automotive and EV sector said the Govt. of Telangana said Telangana was one of the first few states in India to announce the E Mobility Policy back in 2018. The policy meant for 10 years was notified in 2020. It evoked a lot of industry interest in the last couple of years. It aimed at attracting Rs 32000 crore investments and generating 1.25 lakh jobs by the year 2030. 75% of its targets are already achieved, he informed.

Last year the state announced Telangana Mobility Valley (TMV). We aimed at Rs 50,000 crore investments in e-mobility. TMV is an infrastructure that makes Telangana a destination for manufacturing and Engineering Research and development in India. It has several pillars, one of them is skilling. On that front, you can increase your interaction with the government. We will connect you to NIT Warangal, Hyundai, BITS, Micron, and Bosch which have been working on futuristic research work in Mobility, he said.

TMV is being set by the State government to create best-in-class infrastructure making Telangana the most competitive destination for both manufacturing and ER & D in India.

We will also explore the possibility of the Government of Telangana supporting future events of eBAJA SAEINDIA in Telangana, the officer said. Speaking at the awards function Sri K V Vishnu Raju said core engineering streams must be back in demand. We as a responsible institution strive hard to treat all streams equally and all disciplines are important

Sanjay Nibandhe, Chairman, Organising Committee, BAHA SAEINDIA 2024 said Indians are well known for technology adaptation. Sumantra B Barooah, Executive Editor ET Auto who was guest of honour said this is an event to celebrate engineering talent. He admired BVRIT’s continuing core engineering branches despite the decreasing demand and said core engineering branches will never go out of fashion.

Sri Vishnu Institute of Technology, Bhimavarm was declared as the Pride of Telugu.The six-day eBAJA SAEIndia 24 will be concluded with an HR Meet (job fair) to be held on Sunday where some best Automobile companies and others will pick up the best of brains for a suitable job. Last year 123 were placed in such a meet and so far, 500 placed since the year 2018.

eBAJA is a national-level engineering student out-of-classroom education event that tested teams comprising g in each team from IITs, NITs and other best institution. The competition was about the design, fabrication and building of an all-terrain, off-road electric buggy. 72 buggies were built, And after a series of evaluation tests, 47 qualified competed in the final endurance test.

Bengaluru, March 12, 2024 – Around 3000 participants from different age groups participated in a 5 km Marathon organized by SPARSH Hospital RR Nagar. The marathon titled ‘Run for Kidney Wellness’ was conducted to spread more awareness on kidney health. The marathon saw participation of enthusiasts’ as young as 4 years old to the eldest a 78 years old gentleman.

The event was flagged off by Mr. Anil Srivatsa, a distinguished Life Coach, Public Speaker, and Entrepreneur based in Bengaluru, India. Anil’s multifaceted career spans various industries, from his tenure as the Chief Executive Officer of the IPL Cricket franchise team Punjab Kings to his role as the President/CEO of Sochcast.com, a spoken word audio platform for Indian women globally.

Speaking about One of the Biggest Marathons in Bangalore City has witnessed recently Mr. Joseph Pasangha, COO of SPARSH Group of Hospitals, commented, “We are thrilled to witness such enthusiastic participation in the ‘Run for Kidney Wellness’ marathon. The overwhelming response underscores the community’s commitment to prioritizing kidney health. It’s heartening to see individuals coming together to raise awareness about this vital aspect of overall well-being. Kidney health is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By staying active, hydrated, and mindful of our dietary choices, we not only support our kidneys but also contribute to our overall health and vitality. Let’s continue this momentum in promoting kidney wellness and fostering a healthier future for all.”

SPARSH Hospital RR Nagar extends heartfelt gratitude to all participants, and supporters for their unwavering commitment to kidney health awareness. Together, we’ve taken significant strides towards promoting a healthier future for all, emphasizing the importance of proactive kidney care in our communities. Let’s continue to champion kidney wellness and inspire positive change in health behaviours.

Hyderabad, 12 March 2024: The Ministry of Culture (Special Cell) and Heartfulness are going to hold a one-of-a-kind spiritual congregation, called the Global Spirituality Mahotsav from March 14 to 17 at Kanha Shanti Vanam, the headquarters of Heartfulness, situated at the outskirts of Hyderabad. The event will bring spiritual leaders from all faiths and beliefs to one place at the world’s largest meditation centre. At a press conference held today, Chief Guests, the Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of North-Eastern Region of India Shri Kishan Reddy ji, Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami ji – Sri Vaishnavism, Shri Bodhamayananda – Director of Vivekananda Institute of Human Excellence and Rev. Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness & President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission announced the upcoming Global Spirituality Mahotsav and its significance. The Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, and the Hon’ble Vice President of India, Mr. Jagdeep Dhankhar, will grace the summit on 15 and 16 March respectively. The four-day spirituality summit being brought by the Ministry of Culture (Govt. of India) and Heartfulness has the theme of “Inner Peace to World Peace”. The conference aims to bring interfaith dialogues and help people of every age and every walk of life connect with spirituality in daily life.

Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of North-Eastern Region of India Shri Kishan Reddy ji said, “India showcases culture, spirituality and a way of life which is inspiring the world. We are standing as an example to the world with our spiritual knowledge and have become the Spiritual Capital of the world. Our country is the birthplace of many religions with us spreading peace and light in life. The philosophical approach of ours is very unique. The entire world is looking towards India for physical and mental well-being through Yoga and meditation. Crores of people worldwide are coming to India to learn Puranas, Upanishads, and Vedas, and understand our culture and lifestyle, and look up to the great men and women of this country for inspiration and blessings. Spiritual tourism has been rising in India. In the Global Spirituality Mahotsav which will be held at the largest meditation centre of the world under the keen guidance of Rev. Daaji, the Spiritual gurus are coming to one platform towards world peace – it is the goal of the MoC with the help of the spiritual gurus today to bring the essence of all religions together for world peace. Therefore the Govt. of India and Modi Ji have decided to support this conference. In the next few years (until 2047 for the centenary of India’s independence) we need to bring love, peace and solidarity among all in the world including all the religious heads. In the G20 summit, we had decided upon the ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. The upcoming conference is also in the continuation of that theme – of solidarity among all classes, castes, and religions and bring them spiritually together across every country and reach to every individual from Kanha Shanti Vanam.”

Over 100,000 participants are expected to participate. The summit is slated to host various panel discussions, cultural programs associated with spirituality, an exhibition showcasing India’s spiritual history, narratives of peace, and an immersive experience for spirituality through books and music. There will also be panchakarma centres set up for those who want to avail wellness and therapeutic sessions. The role of eminent people from film, music, and sports in sensitizing people to partake in the Global Spirituality Mahotsav is also being sought, and elaborate arrangements for the participants are also being discussed.

Some of the organizations coming together for the Global Spirituality Mahotsav are the Ramakrishna Mission, Parmarth Niketan, The Art of Living Foundation, The Mata Amritanandamayi Math, Archbishop of Hyderabad, Rev Cardinal Anthony Poola, Chinna Jiyar Swami, The Brahma Kumaris, Patanjali Yogpeeth, Maharishi Foundation (Transcendental Meditation), Isha Foundation, International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, Archdiocese of Hyderabad, Rashtra Sant Tukdoji Maharaj Akhil Bhartiya Shri Gurudeo Seva Mandal, Sant Dnyaneshwar Devasthan, Alandi, All India Imam Organization, Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur and the Shri Ram Chandra Mission/ Heartfulness.

Chinna Jeeyar Swami ji – Guru of Sri Vaishnavism said, “Our MoC and especially Sriman Krishna Reddy Garu who took the initiative organising this event is great at a moment to arrange all the religious and spiritual leaders and at a massive scale Kanha Shanti Vanam. The purpose of every religion is to unite people, but each religion has some point that is unique for their own selves and which is common for all – just like good food, water and the air are common for all. So is peace for the soul and is common for all which need to be picked up and be practiced. As we have five fingers – each finger is unique but all should work together. The four days at Kanha will help discuss and share with each other and make a plan of action to work together. Our Bharat should become a strong foundation for the centenary celebrations for the independence of Bharat.”

Swami Bodhmayananda ji – Shri Ramakrishna Math said, “Religion is a very misleading term therefore there is misunderstanding among people. We must work together on the path of truth. Condensation of milk alone can help make a tasty ‘kheer’ – it only boils down to condensing it well. This is precisely what spirituality is all about – manifesting the divinity within you as Vivekananda said. Inner Peace to World Peace is the current theme. After Vivekananda’s talk at the International Parliament of Religions, this is the first time, it is the biggest such event. The MoC is making a giant step forward. The unifying force is coming into effect from March 14. It is God’s will and the efforts of man that nothing is impossible and can help us achieve peace. India should be a shining star and the leading example of world spirituality.”

Rev. Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission said, “The whole idea began with Swami Vivekananda. He was my inspiration. All religions lead to one core. The time is ripe when we need to come together. How long shall we keep on dreaming/fighting on simple ideological differences and how do we bring about individual peace and harmony in the society? Terrorists are very well united. They share their knowledge of destructive powers. Spiritual and religious people are like oil and water which has to be discussed and very grateful to the MoC who are here to bring together the various paths. Let us change one person at a time, one heart at a time and make this unification a possibility. We must have respect with mutual trust and admiration. Spirituality is to bring people together. Our children and grandchildren should not witness the war that we are facing today. The ancient Yoga system is prescribed as vaccination for the whole problem. Among the 17 SDGs by the United Nations, you can fulfil them by solving the root problem – the mind through meditation and dhyana. Meditation gives you a focused and contemplative mind and true happiness. Our goal is to nurture the idea of coming together. Each of the spiritual heads here today represents a flower of the garland, we need to create that garland of flowers and dedicate it to God.”

1) Mr. Shravan Gupta, Founder and CEO of YOURS a platform for Fractional Ownership of Luxury second homes

The recent decision by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is expected to have a significantly positive impact on the emerging fractional ownership sector in the country. This move comes at a time when the market and demand for fractional or co-ownership properties are rapidly growing. The amendments made to the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) Regulations in 2014 aim to establish clear guidelines for the formation of Small and Medium Real Estate Investment Trusts (SM REITs).

Through these amendments, the regulatory body seeks to not only regulate and organize the fractional ownership segment but also enhance transparency in the sector. The introduction of specific regulations for SM REITs will provide a level of assurance to both investors and property owners, fostering trust and encouraging participation in these ventures.

2) Mr. Shrinivas Rao, CEO- Vestian said, “SEBI’s notification to regulate small and medium REITs (SM REITs) is a welcome move for the Indian real estate sector. This will regulate the fractional ownership industry and safeguard investor interests, incorporating both commercial and residential properties within the new framework. Moreover, it is expected to boost the participation of domestic and foreign retail investors, and liquidity in the Indian real estate market as an initial offering for an SM REIT is mandated to have a minimum subscription amount of INR 10 lakh per investor, contrasting with the earlier norm where fractional platforms often required an investment of about INR 25 lakh.”

He further added, “SM REITs are now allowed to gather funds starting from INR 50 Cr by issuing units to a minimum of 200 investors instead of the earlier cap of INR 500 Cr. This may bring a large number of income-generating small and medium real estate assets under the purview of REITs.”

3) Mr. Piyush Gupta, Managing Director, Capital Markets & Investment Services, Colliers India
The notification on SM REITs was awaited for long and shall provide a huge boost to providing liquidity to granular holding of Office yielding assets. This opens plethora of opportunities across size and scale of Markets and Products to Retail and Institutional Investors to invest in Office yielding Real Estate. With minimum size of Rs. 50 cr. and minimum holding of 5% of Investment Manager, this isn’t a significant entry barrier for newer Fund Managers however key checks and balances have been provided by SEBI.

Bengaluru, March 12, 2024: Tata Motors, India’s leading automotive manufacturer, is proud to announce a significant milestone in its manufacturing history of rolling out the 1 millionth car from its state-of-the-art facility in Sanand, Gujarat. This landmark achievement emphasizes Tata Motors’ commitment to continuously innovate, for delivering superior products that elevate consumer delight. It also reflects the hard work and dedication of the team at the Sanand facility, who have played a crucial role in achieving this milestone.

The Sanand plant was established in 2010 spread across 1100 acres – 741 acres (TML) and 359 acres (Vendor Park) with over 6000 direct and indirect employees, has been instrumental in Tata Motors’ growth and success. Being one of the youngest plant of Tata Motors, the Sanand facility boasts of having an up-to-the-minute technology across all its processes. The highly mechanised plant has incorporated a lean process management system. The plant houses press line, the weld shop, paint shop, assembly line and powertrain shop. This facility has a flexible assembly line and is known for producing various models of passenger vehicles like Tiago, Tiago AMT, Tiago.ev, Tiago iCNG, Tigor, Tigor AMT, Tigor EV, Tigor iCNG and XPRES-T EV. A single model plant has been successfully converted into multi-model plant churning out three models with 100% assets management and utilization.

Commenting on the momentous occasion, Mr. Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. said, “We are extremely proud to roll out the 1 millionth car from our Sanand plant. This facility has been pivotal in bolstering our growth story in India by responding to market needs promptly. This achievement is a testament to the high standards we set for ourselves and the commitment we have to our customers. Our efforts have led to higher consideration for our products and this milestone certainly reiterates the popularity of our products among consumers. We are confident to carry forward our momentum in providing safer, smarter, and greener mobility solutions. We owe this milestone. We acknowledge and thank our employees, suppliers, channel partners, and most importantly the Government of Gujarat for their unwavering support, which has been integral to achieving this milestone.”

Tata Motors has always believed in social upgradation of individuals and communities. The Sanand plant has adopted more than 68 villages in and around Sanand, Bavla & Viramgam. Setting up of toilets, skill development of women to increase their employability and health and education of girl child are the key initiatives with which the plant began its CSR activities in Sanand. In last 13 years, the CSR initiatives of Tata Motors has touched over 3 lakh lives in and around Sanand.