Archives August 2024

17th August, 2024, India — The humanitarian sector is facing increasingly complex challenges. Humanitarian crises are becoming more frequent, widespread and protracted due to escalating conflicts layered with intensifying climate-related incidents and disease outbreaks.1 As World Humanitarian Day approaches, International SOS, the world’s leading health and security services company, acknowledges the vital role of aid workers in delivering life-saving assistance to millions worldwide and provides a comprehensive framework for humanitarian organisations to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of their workforce. These guidelines focus on proactive risk management, robust security measures and holistic employee support.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that nearly 300 million people worldwide will require humanitarian assistance and protection throughout 2024.2 However, the targeting and disruption of health, education and water facilities have left millions without critical services, while humanitarian workers face increased risks, including injuries, deaths and detentions. According to the Aid Workers Security Database, there have been 102 major incidents of violence against aid workers this year globally.

This escalation is further evidenced by the large number of workers requiring medical care. Iqarus, a wholly owned subsidiary of the International SOS Group and the world leader in delivering high standards of medical care and training in the world’s most challenging operating environments, reported treating around 10,000 patients who were working across the humanitarian aid sector in conflict-affected and post-conflict locations last year alone. This number highlights the immense physical and mental health strains endured by humanitarian workers on the frontlines.

Furthermore, living and working in high-stress environments, humanitarian workers often spend long hours under adverse conditions. The transition back from a deployment can also be challenging. Research indicates a substantial decline in personal health among long-term aid workers during missions. Injuries resulting from accidents and violence pose significant risks, often surpassing those from disease or natural causes.4 The likelihood of medical evacuations, hospitalisations, or fatal incidents is estimated at approximately six per 10,000 aid worker person-years.5 These figures vary based on location, crisis type and duration of deployment.

Dr Cat Davison, Regional Medical Director for Europe, Middle East & South Asia (EMESA) at Iqarus, emphasises the importance of humanitarians prioritising the safety and wellbeing of their teams. She states, “It is crucial for organisations to have strong clinical care support to manage the complex health issues that humanitarian aid workers face in challenging environments. Comprehensive pre-deployment assessments are essential. Thorough physical and mental health evaluations can identify potential vulnerabilities and inform necessary precautions. Medical personnel responding to infectious disease outbreaks face heightened exposure risks, necessitating strict adherence to infection control and personal protective equipment protocols. Additionally, the psychological toll of high-stress missions cannot be ignored. Aid workers often return with elevated levels of anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder, emphasising the critical need for comprehensive post-deployment care, including mental health support.”

Michael Rogers, Chief Security Analyst at International SOS, commented, “The safeguarding of humanitarian and health workers remains an urgent and paramount concern. Operating in environments fraught with insecurity, often stemming from armed conflict, criminal activity or natural disasters, these individuals face extraordinary risks while delivering life-saving aid. Factors like political instability further exacerbate these challenges, often hindering operational efficiency and making it more difficult to access vulnerable populations. Organisations must prioritise the safety and security of their workforce as a fundamental aspect of their operations. This includes conducting rigorous risk assessments, scenario planning and providing comprehensive training as part of a robust security programme.”

Rogers adds, “In addition to the comprehensive training that aid workers require ahead of and during their deployment to high-risk areas, these personnel require access to reliable and actionable intelligence. The intelligence should include real-time tactical support through local contacts where possible, as well as operational and strategic intelligence from a trusted partner like International SOS. Equipping aid workers with the appropriate tools to navigate the security challenges they confront is crucial for their safety and the success of the humanitarian aid mission.”

Expert Guidelines to Safeguard the Safety and Wellbeing of Humanitarian Workforce from International SOS:

1. Conduct comprehensive risk assessments: Organisations must meticulously evaluate operational environments to identify potential threats, vulnerabilities, and risks. This includes assessing political instability, crime rates, natural disasters and health hazards. By understanding these factors, organisations can tailor their security measures accordingly.

Develop robust security protocols: Clear and detailed security protocols are essential for effective crisis management. These protocols should outline procedures for emergencies, evacuations, kidnappings and medical emergencies. Regular security drills and training ensure that staff is prepared to respond calmly and efficiently in high-pressure situations.

Invest in employee training: Equipping the workforce with the necessary skills to prevent and respond to incidents is paramount. Training should cover a range of topics, including security awareness, first aid, cultural sensitivity and mental health. Regular refresher courses and scenario-based training enhance workforce preparedness.

Provide access to quality medical care: Access to high-quality medical care is crucial for the wellbeing of humanitarian workers. Organisations should establish partnerships with reputable medical providers. Emergency evacuation plans and medical evacuation insurance should be in place for remote or high-risk locations.

Offer mental health support: The psychological impact of working in high-stress environments cannot be overstated. Organisations must provide access to mental health services, including pre-deployment assessments, counselling, and post-deployment support. Creating a culture of open communication about mental health is essential for employee wellbeing.

Maintain effective communication: Clear and timely communication is vital for maintaining staff safety. Organisations should establish robust communication systems, including satellite phones, emergency contact numbers and regular updates on security situations. Crisis communication plans should outline how information will be disseminated to staff and stakeholders.

Collaborate with local partners: Building strong relationships with local authorities, security experts and community leaders is essential for effective security management. These partnerships provide valuable insights into local conditions and facilitate access to resources.

Even as the celebrations over Team India’s medals haul at the International Linguistics Olympiad 2024 are yet to die down, we take a look at the path to the finale that unfolds for the Indian contingent.

Competing against 206 participants drawn from 51 teams across 38 countries, the Indian contestants shone at the 21st International Linguistic Olympiad (IOL) held in Brasília, Brazil, from July 23 to July 31, 2024. The Indian team demonstrated their prowess in the individual categories with Animikha Dutta Dhar bagging a silver medal, Shrilakshmi Venkatraman and Faraz Ahmed Siddiqui winning a bronze medal each and Ananya Agarwal receiving an Honourable Mention.

India has been competing at the IOL since 2009 but it’s start itself was rather unconventional. The prevailing norm for countries’ participation in the contest is based on each country sending 1 or 2 teams whose composition is based on the winners of their national Linguistics Olympiad. But there had never been a national level Linguistics contest held up until then. Hence the selection of the Indian team itself was rather atypical – an ad-hoc group of 3 students with only this in common: an interest and excellence in Linguistics as well as a desire to compete internationally. Despite the apparent lack of experience, Team India’s debut on the world stage saw it bagging not only a Silver medal but also the ‘Best Solution’ award. Since then, India has participated in 15 Olympiads bringing back 31 medals, 1 bronze trophy, 9 best-solution prizes, 16 honourable mentions and has sent 6 repeat medallists to the Hall of Fame.

Modest Beginnings

“The first Indian team had to approach Dr. Avinash Pandey from the Department of Linguistics, University of Bombay to support their endeavour. By 2013, Dr. Monojit Choudhury of Microsoft Research (MSR) joined the efforts too and a 2-part screening process for schoolkids kicked in. Around 25 students from the open round were selected for round 2 and MSR supported the team that went on to represent India in the IOL. From 2014 onwards, the screening process moved from Bombay to Bangalore and many more people began to get involved,” recalls Prof. Dipti Misra, Language Technologies Research Centre, IIITH, who has been involved in the organising of the national-level screening process for years. For a country that was a little late to the game, it is a testimony of the surge in interest and participation that saw India playing host to the IOL in the year 2016 in Mysore. “It was the same year that IIITH hosted round 2 of the national screening for the first time,” states Prof. Dipti.

Role of APLO

“The past few years, during the pandemic, like other countries, we too followed the Asia Pacific Linguistics Olympiad (APLO) as our selection method (to the IOL) for multiple reasons,” explains Prof. Manish Shrivastava, LTRC, who has led Team India to the IOL on multiple occasions. “One, the quality of the competition and the quality of the questions – both are very high. Second, the way it is organised ensures that the diversity and challenge is continuously increasing. More and more countries are joining in, including India, and more experts are joining (from India) too, so the pool of experts and jury is leading up to a very high quality entrance mechanism that allows our students to interact with participating countries. Additionally, we’re also trying to get organisers of APLO to come and coach our students,” he says. Calling the APLO similar to the IOL in spirit and with respect to the nature and style of the problems, Prof. Parameswari however clarifies that unlike the IOL, the APLO is not a contest where students from different countries physically meet in one place to participate. “Instead, all contestants compete in their home country on the same day. This year, it was held in April,” she says. Shortlisted candidates from round 1 appear for APLO. Based on APLO results, students are further screened for the next round which is the Panini Linguistics Olympiad (PLO).

Role of PLO

The national-level screening process and subsequent training of the candidates who represent India at the IOL is referred to as the PLO. It is a collaborative effort of multiple institutes such as the Microsoft Research Labs India, IIITH, JNU Delhi, and the University of Mumbai and is actively supported by regional coordinators across the country including Chennai Mathematical Institute, IIT Guwahati, SNLTR Kolkata and IIT Patna. While the preliminary round is conducted in multiple centres, from the year 2016, IIITH has been hosting Round 2 which is a 7-10 day camp where the selected students are exposed to concepts such as phonology, semantics, historical linguistics, computational linguistics and more by some of the top linguistics from the country and overseas as well. According to him, the camp hosted by IIITH plays several roles. “We want to promote linguistics itself as a field of study. Plus, this is an excellent way of getting the community to know each other. It leads to offline links so that they can stay in touch and come back next year stronger. It has led to amazing outcomes – silver medals, multiple honourable mentions and so on.”

Computational Linguistics Degree

With the largest natural language processing and related research group in the country nestled on the institute’s campus, the Language Technology Research Center (LTRC) has had linguists, computer scientists and language scholars all working together for many years on multiple aspects of languages – understanding, translating, retrieval, manipulation and more. “The Linguistics Olympiad has a very special role to play in IIITH’s academic structure,” remarks Prof. P J Narayanan, Director, IIITH, referring to the Dual Degree program that offers a BTech in Computer Science and an MS by Research in Computational Linguistics (CLD). Students who clear Round 1 of the PLO are eligible to directly appear for the interview round of this channel of admission. “For the first 2 years, we selected candidates through JEE but then we started conducting our own exam because we realised we were not looking for regular engineering aspirants; we were looking for people who found language fascinating. So students who cleared the institute exam were invited for an interview and later, students who did well in the Linguistics Olympiad were directly invited for interviews,” recounts Prof. Dipti.

NEP and Olympiads

Prof. Rajakrishnan Rajkumar is IIITH’s newest linguistic evangelist who has been working tirelessly behind the scenes of this year’s PLO. “My own personal excitement behind the PLO camp stems from getting a captive audience of young school students, some of whom go on to join us as CLD students and who might become good researchers. My other interest is also in popularising this within India and especially in the Hindi heartland where I feel there is lot of undiscovered talent,” he declares. The professor further adds that activities such as conducting the Olympiads align with one of the mandates of the National Education Policy 2020 which emphasises participation in Olympiads to identify talent and explore students’ potential. “The aim of NEP 2020 is to refine the Indian education system from its typical emphasis on rote learning and instead move towards the development of critical-thinking and problem solving skills which Olympiads assess,” remarks Prof. Rajkumar. This year’s PLO camp also witnessed active participation of members and experts from the North American Computational Linguistic (NACLO) circuit. “As a PhD student, I was quite involved in the North American edition of this same Olympiad. We used to conduct outreach activities for the high school students in the state of Ohio. Some of the people that I worked with then are faculty members in US universities. Having their presence this time around is a function of the networks and personal connections we have,” he explains.

International Mentors

PLO 2024 saw keynote talks and guest lectures by several experts in the linguistics field that included Prof. KV Subbarao, retired professor from Delhi University, Dr. Micha Elsner, Computational Linguist, Ohio State University (OSU), Dr. Marten van Schijndel, Computational Linguist at Cornell University, and Prof. Monojit Choudhury, Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence among others. Dr. Elsner has personally been championing the cause of linguistics among highschool students in North America and is the coordinator of NACLO at OSU along with Prof. Dan Parker. “We get a lot of people who are Interested in science, technology and even languages but they don’t really understand how all the pieces might go together,” he says. Expressing satisfaction at at the concerted efforts made by a linguistically diverse country like India in training participants for the ILO, Dr. Schijndel remarks that it’s important given that algorithms explaining how humans process language were designed with particular English-focused benchmarks.

Parent And StudentSpeak

According to one of the parents who was present at the start as well as end of the camp, the nature of the Linguistics Olympiad exam is beyond par. “There are a lot of intelligently designed puzzles,” he elaborates. “Besides, it’s being positioned in a way that is unique, you get 4 hours – unheard of for a child of this age to be spending so much time without a break – to solve 4 or 5 problems at max. It’s a different style of testing logical reasoning. What I would tell other parents and other children is that it develops a large amount of logical reasoning and critical thinking in a rather unique way which also includes fun.” For one of the young participants, the camp served as an eye-opener with all the exposure to the theory behind what he had considered as only “puzzle-solving”.”We all are proficient in one or more languages and can speak them but we never really think about the scientific aspect of languages, what does it mean to actually ‘know’ a language. We were given a broad overview of the larger field of linguistics and it has definitely ignited my interest,” he quips.

From the PLO camp that was conducted this Summer at IIITH, two teams were selected for the IOL scheduled to be held in Brazil – Team Saffron, led by Prof. Manish Shrivastava and comprising Faraz Ahmed Siddiqui, Aadibhav Prasad, Animikha Dutta Dhar and Pratyush Vempati; Team Green led by Prof. Parameshwari Krishnamurthi and comprising of the following contestants, Ananya Agarwal, Jatin Vikash, Shrilakshmi Venkatraman, and Diya Agarwal. The two teams also had Anshul Krishnadas Bhagwat playing an observer role.

Official Sponsorship

The Indian contingent’s presence at the global level was made possible in no small part due to the generous funding by Athlyte, Inc, a DE USA incorporated sports analytics company (www.athlytesports.com), serving U.S. college and university sports communicators. In an email message, Dr. Kiron Shastry, President and CEO of Athlyte said, “We are very proud to be associated with the Olympiad helping with the growth of these grade school students who will be scientists of the future. Kudos to the IIITH team for the hard work and effort that made this possible.” IIITH and Athlyte, Inc. recently entered into a collaboration to develop advanced algorithms and data models for sports analytics. These models and algorithms will serve to enhance Athlyte’s Next Generation Sports Communicators Technology Platform.

IOL Brazil

In addition to brain-teasing contests, the participants had the opportunity to interact with indigenous people, their language and their culture. They also explored Brazilian nature during a trail up to Itiquira waterfalls. The contestants participated in a Wikipedia Editathon and various other games organised by the IOL.

What stood out for the Indian team was the warm welcome by the Indian Embassy in Brazil, where they had the opportunity to meet with embassy officials. “This interaction highlighted the support and pride of the Indian community for the young scholars representing their country on the global stage,” reports Prof. Parameswari. She adds that the Indian teams’ achievements at the IOL highlight the country’s growing expertise and interest in the field of linguistics, showcasing the hard work and dedication of both the participants and their mentors.

17th August 2024: Mangal Credit and Fincorp Limited  is excited to announce its successful listing on the platform of National Stock Exchange of India Limited (“NSE”) on 16th August 2024 which listed on BSE Limited registered as non-deposit taking non-banking financial company (“the Company”). This milestone marks a significant achievement for the company and reflects its continued commitment to growth, transparency, and stakeholders’ value.

The Company’s equity shares are listed and admitted to dealings on the NSE under the ticker Symbol “MANCREDIT” . Investors and market participants can now access the company’s equity shares through the NSE platform, enhancing trading opportunities and market accessibility.

On this milestone achievement by the company, Shri Meghraj Sohanlal Jain, Chairman and Managing Director, Mangal Credit and Fincorp Limited commented, “We are thrilled to take this significant step by listing on the NSE. This move aligns with our strategic objectives of broadening our investor base and increasing market presence.” He further added, “We believe that this listing will open new avenues for growth and enable us to better serve our shareholders and stakeholders.”

Following its listing on the BSE Limited, the company has now joined the NSE, one of the largest and most prestigious stock exchanges in India. The dual listing is expected to enhance the company’s visibility, increase liquidity, and provide greater access to a wider pool of investors.

New Delhi, 17th August 2024: On the 78th year of Independence, KRBL Limited, known for India Gate Basmati Rice, the World’s No. 1 Basmati brand, along with Wavemaker India conceptualizes a campaign that addresses freedom from hunger – “Grains of Hope” a program to feed under privileged children across India.

India Gate partnered with Olympic winner Manu Bhaker urging people to connect with this initiative and together work towards creating a hunger-free nation under the #FreedomFromHunger movement. The campaign urges people nationwide to pledge their support for this vital cause.

The “Grains of Hope” program is a testament to India Gate’s commitment to fighting hunger by providing food to children in need. An integrated campaign orchestrated by Wavemaker; India Gate is expanding its reach across all platforms. Leveraging all medium with QR scans across Print, campaign video (conceptualized & produced by Creativeland Asia) driving people to the www.indiagategrainsofhope.com. Radio and influencers urging people to pledge, as for each pledge India Gate will donate a meal to a child, transforming each pledge into a powerful act of compassion. This initiative not only aims to alleviate hunger but also seeks to strengthen community bonds by inspiring collective action to tackle this urgent issue together.

The “Grains of Hope” campaign will engage audiences through multiple touchpoints, including digital platforms, print media, leading radio stations across India, and exciting mall activations, ensuring a wide reach and impact. Additionally, India Gate has collaborated with both mega and micro-influencers to amplify the message, reaching a broader audience and inspiring more people to join this impactful initiative.

As an extension of the campaign, India Gate has partnered with Q-commerce platforms like Blinkit and Zepto. For every India Gate rice purchased through these platforms during the campaign period, a meal will be gifted to a child in need, further reinforcing the brand’s dedication to eradicating hunger.

Kunal Sharma, AVP Marketing, MT & Ecommerce, KRBL, commented: The “Grains of Hope” initiative is more than just a campaign; it is a powerful movement that empowers individuals to create real change in the lives of children across India. We are thrilled to have Manu Bhaker join us in this endeavor, as her presence will help us connect with a broader audience. As a brand dedicated to a hunger-free world, this marks our first concerted effort to engage actively with our customers and invite their support to amplify the initiative’s reach. Our goal is to strengthen the bond between our community and our brand, fostering a shared sense of purpose. Together, we can build a future where no child goes to bed hungry.”

Commenting on this campaign, Ajay Gupte, CEO – South Asia, Wavemaker said, “Joining forces with India Gate on their impactful ‘Grains of Hope’ initiative is a true honour. We are proud to stand alongside India Gate in their mission to achieve #FreedomfromHunger. Driven by the desire to reach the hearts of millions across India, we crafted a multi-faceted campaign designed to ignite passion for this noble cause. Through a strategic blend of print, digital, radio, and on-ground activations, we have sought to spark conversations and inspire action. Our influencer campaign, featuring both mega and micro influencers, further amplifies the message encouraging everyone to join us in the fight against hunger.”

Azazul Haque, Group Chief Creative Officer, Creativeland Asia added, “the brief was to start a conversation that can just not does a lip service on the occasion of Independence Day but also nudging people to make a difference. Freedom from Hunger sounded like a beautiful thought that captures the intent of the brand and Grains of Hope initiative by India Gate. It also asks people to do whatever little they can to help someone in need provide a meal by simply taking a pledge. The story of Chutki was to tell the world what difference a meal can bring in the lives of the children who can’t afford one. It can give their childhood freedom to be a child again.”

India Gate invites everyone to join this movement in the endeavor to eradicate child hunger. Every pledge counts and with your support, we can help children grow, learn, and thrive.

Mumbai, India, August 17, 2024: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has set a new benchmark in the Indian maritime industry by launching first biofuel blend High Flash High Speed Diesel (HFHSD) bunker by an OMC at Mumbai Port. This pioneering initiative by BPCL underscores its unwavering commitment to green energy solutions and aligns with the global mandate to decarbonize the shipping sector.

As the maritime industry globally pivots towards reducing carbon emissions and mitigating environmental impact, BPCL’s introduction of the biofuel blend HFHSD bunker provides shipping companies with a cleaner, biodegradable alternative to traditional fuels. This initiative not only supports environmental sustainability but also strengthens BPCL’s position as a leader in the Indian bunkering market.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Sukhmal Jain, Director (Marketing), BPCL, remarked, “Today’s launch is a testament to our commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Our Project Aspire, with its focus on green energy, is driving our efforts towards a cleaner future. This biofuel blend bunker is a significant step in that direction and positions BPCL as a global bunkering leader.”

BPCL has consistently demonstrated its leadership in the Indian bunkering sector, being the first to introduce IMO 2020 compliant bunker fuel in the country. With a strong presence along the Western coast, BPCL has become a trusted supplier of marine fuels. The company’s foray into biofuel blends is part of a broader strategy to expand its portfolio of green bunker fuels, including LNG, hydrogen, and methanol, thereby staying ahead in the evolving energy landscape.

This initiative is in alignment with the Government of India’s vision for a clean energy future, as outlined in the National Biofuels Policy and Maritime India Vision 2030. The event was attended by industry leaders, including Shri Rajeev Jalota, Chairman MbPA and Shri Atul Patne, Commissioner of Fisheries, Govt. of Maharashtra.

Business Head (Industrial & Commercial) for BPCL, Mr. Rahul Tandon, during the launch program remarked “The launch of India’s first biofuel blend HFHSD bunker is a testament to our commitment to sustainability. This is yet another #TheGoodPrint effort of BPCL’s, where we believe that every small step, we take towards green energy makes a significant impact on creating a better world for future generations”

Speaking at BPCL’s Biofuel Blended Bunker Fuel launch at Mumbai Port, Dr. Atul Patne (IAS), Principal Secretary (Fisheries), Govt. of Maharashtra highlighted the importance of closer collaboration between BPCL and the Department of Fisheries to provide eco-friendly fuel options for fishermen. He also expressed his appreciation to BPCL for considering joint efforts to develop sustainable solutions for managing plastic waste in the sea, which is increasingly threatening endangered aquatic life.

At the event, the Chairman of Mumbai Port Authority highlighted the pivotal roles that both BPCL and MbPA have played in driving economic development at Mumbai Port while ensuring energy security for decades. He emphasized the importance of both organizations working closely to introduce cleaner bunkering options, positioning Mumbai Port as a premier bunkering hub on the western coast of India. He also underscored the need to adapt to new technological developments and foster innovation in the supply chain.

Key Highlights:

• Industry First: BPCL introduces India’s first biofuel blend HFHSD bunker.
•  Environmental Impact: Promotes reduced carbon emissions and offers a greener alternative for the maritime industry.
•  Sustainable Future: Aligns with global efforts to decarbonize shipping and contributes to carbon credits.
•  Leadership: Reinforces BPCL’s position as a pioneer in the Indian bunkering market.
•  Government Alignment: Supports India’s clean energy and sustainability objectives.

With this bold initiative, BPCL is not just setting a new standard for the Indian maritime sector but is also making significant strides towards ensuring a sustainable future for the generations to come.

August 17th,2024 – The 18th edition of PackPlus, India’s leading packaging industry event is slated to happen from August 22 to 24, 2024, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. With over 200 exhibitors and an expected attendance of more than 15,000 industry professionals, this year’s event promises to be the country’s largest and most influential gathering of packaging experts.

PackPlus 2024 will showcase the latest trends, technologies, and solutions across the entire packaging value chain, from primary packaging to supply chain logistics. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of products and services, including packaging machinery, materials, printing and converting equipment, and much more.

Speaking about the upcoming show Mr. Umang Gupta, Country General Manager RX India commented, “The packaging industry is at a pivotal juncture, driven by evolving consumer preferences, sustainability concerns, and technological advancements. PackPlus 2024 shall showcase cutting-edge packaging solutions, from sustainable materials and smart packaging technologies to automation and supply chain optimization. The accompanying one-day conference will delve deep into industry trends, regulatory landscapes, and best practices, empowering businesses to stay ahead of the curve”.

To complement the exhibition, the International Packaging Conclave, themed “Unboxing Possibilities – Succeeding at the Packaging Evolution,” is set to bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts for insightful discussions on the future of packaging. The conclave will feature over 30 speakers who will share their expertise on sustainability, digitalization, and consumer trends. Discussions will focus on the importance of honest labeling and transparency in food packaging, ensuring safety through adherence to government regulations, and the role of nanotechnology in enhancing shelf life and improving thermal stability. The conference will also explore creating the ultimate unboxing experience for customers, emphasizing personalization, experiential packaging, and user-friendly designs that enhance consumer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

Sustainability remains a critical theme, with panels addressing the industry’s transformation towards green packaging. Experts will discuss the use of alternative materials, minimalistic packaging designs, and the importance of transparency to combat greenwashing. Additionally, the conference will delve into the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence on the packaging industry, highlighting advancements such as 3D printing, smart packaging, and real-time tracking that promise to redefine packaging processes and improve efficiency.

PackPlus 2024 is supported by leading industry associations, including the Flexible Packaging Entrepreneurs’ Welfare Association, Authentication Solution Providers Association, Maharashtra Mudran Parishad, Bawana Print and Pack Association, and the Coating & Adhesive Tape Association of India. The key exhibitors for the show are Ajit Industries, Control Print, County Polypack, Ecopack Solutions, Holostik India, Instabizz Solutions, Kangaro Industries, Robatech India, Honeywell India, Avians Automation, Toshi Systems, Leap India, and Tech-Mech Material Handling.

Thrissur: Manappuram Finance has announced a financial aid of Rs 4 crore towards rehabilitation efforts in the landslide affected regions of Wayanad. Of this, Rs. 1 crore will be contributed to the Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund and the remaining Rs.3 crore will be utilised for various rehabilitation initiatives under the leadership of Manappuram Foundation, the CSR arm of Manappuram Finance.

The project aims at providing housing and other necessities to the affected people in coordination with government agencies. Commenting on the initiative, VP Nandakumar, MD & CEO of Manappuram Finance stated, “It is our collective duty to help rehabilitate those in need from the severely affected regions of Punchirimattam, Churalmala, and Mundakai. Even as we pay our tributes to the victims, we have already initiated measures to support the survivors and help them rebuild their lives.”

Hyderabad, August 16, 2024…. Hyderabad International Trade Expositions Ltd (HITEX) is organizing three expos HIMTEX, IPEC, and ECO Sustain Expo simultaneously at Hitex from August 16th to 19th. The three expos were formally inaugurated by several industrial and trade bodies leaders.

Some of those include Dr Shailendra Saroj, Chairman of the International Federation of electric vehicle Association (I-FEVA); Dr D.S. Setty, Chairman of Telangana and AP Chapter, Indian Institute of Plant Engineers, Raj Kumar Sharma, President of All India Council for Robotic & Automation; Ramesh Miyyapuram, President of Cheralpally Industrial Association-Phase 3; Dr Amiya Kumar Sahu, Chairman—TS & AP Chapter of National Solid Waste Association of India (NSWAI); A. Bhaskar Reddy, Federation of Telangana Small (MSME) Industries Associations and A. Praveen Reddy, President of Jeedimetla Industries Association.

The three expos are the 8th edition of the Hyderabad International Machine Tool & Engineering Expo (HIMTEX); India Process Expo & Conference (IPEC) and the Eco Sustain Expo. These events provide a platform for showcasing the latest innovations and developments in the manufacturing sector, offering opportunities for networking, collaboration, and growth.

In all, 450 exhibitors are showcasing their products and services. Nearly 20 innovators showcasing products and services in waste management for the manufacturing sector, informed Srikanth TG, Business Head of Hitex, the organiser of the tri expos.

Addressing a knowledge session on Contemporary Policies for E-Waste and Recycling Management & regulations, immediately after the inauguration, Dr Shailendra Saroj, said i-FEVA is India’s First Federation of Electric Vehicles and its non-profit organization to promote electric vehicles in India, research, development and deployment of electric vehicles. Battery recycling and second use is the untapped market in India.

He added that the India battery recycling market is valued at USD 1.97 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a strong CAGR of around 9.8% from now till 2030. He spoke on Government Policy on E-Waste, the responsibilities of manufacturers, producers, refurbishers, e-waste PPPs and others.

Speaking on the same subject Dr. Varghese Samuel, Co-founder of Matlabs Technologies, a research instrumentation solution-providing company said recycling of lithium-ion batteries in India is a huge opportunity and the size of it could be anywhere in the range of $1,000 million opportunity. The global demand for lithium-ion batteries is the critical pillar in a fossil fuel-free economy. Given the industry, size, and growth, there will be a huge demand in future for lithium-ion battery recycling, he said.

The EV battery reuse and recycle market is not yet economically viable. However, based on the trend of rising EV sales volumes, the global market is anticipated to become self-sustaining by 2030-35 with the establishment of a circular value chain he said.

By 2030, the market size for reuse and recycling is likely to reach 157 MWH (assuming that the first life of the battery is 10 years and the second life is five years), he said.

Speaking further he added currently India doesn’t have any uniform regulations governing lithium-based EV battery reuse and recycling. China, Europe, USA and Japan have clear regulations. In contrast, regulations for recycling are still under development in India, with the proposed policy providing incentives to set up recycling facilities and also making it mandatory for producers to collect used batteries.

It is a unified platform for manufacturing, said Sriaknth TG, Business Head of Hitex in his welcome address. India’s manufacturing sector has shown impressive growth with the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) reaching a notable high.

Machine tools are the backbone and mother of the manufacturing sector. The sector is ripe with opportunities for innovation and development, driving the overall growth of the manufacturing

HIMTEX is an exceptional platform for exploring untapped opportunities in machine tools, engineering, robotics and automation while showcasing cutting-edge technological innovations.

He added that these expos are supported by the Government of Telangana and many industry bodies such as the SME Chamber of India, All India Association of Industries, Process Plant & Machinery Association of India, Ludhiana Machine Tool, National Solid Waste Association of India.

A show directory was released on the occasion.

A High-Stakes Journey Through Family Bonds and International Intrigue

Dr. Ajay Mahajan, renowned scientist, professor, and entrepreneur, announces the release of his debut novel, Gravity of a Promise. This enthralling thriller combines the high-octane excitement of Formula One racing with a deeply personal journey spanning three continents.

Gravity of a Promise is a captivating tale that centers on Nikhil Nanda, a character inspired by Mahajan’s own experiences and life story. Set against a backdrop of international locales, the novel begins with a dramatic promise made by Nikhil to his dying father. Despite their fraught relationship, Nikhil is driven by this vow, setting off on a dangerous adventure that takes him from the glamorous world of Formula One racing to perilous encounters in Chicago, Florence, Montpellier, and Agra.

The novel’s title, Gravity of a Promise, encapsulates the weight and significance of Nikhil’s pledge. The narrative delves into themes of family honor, personal sacrifice, and the struggle to reconcile past conflicts. As Nikhil seeks to fulfill his father’s dying wish, he teams up with Tina Kohli, a talented and enigmatic colleague from his F1 days. Together, they uncover hidden secrets while evading a sinister antagonist determined to thwart their mission.

Mahajan’s inspiration for the book stemmed from his desire to share his personal journey with his daughters and capture a piece of his family’s history. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he expanded this personal story into a thrilling narrative, blending his experiences with a fictional edge. The novel offers readers an insider’s perspective on the exhilarating world of Formula One, as well as a compelling look at the history of India during and after Partition.

The writing process for Gravity of a Promise spanned over a decade. Mahajan faced the challenge of transitioning from technical writing to crafting an engaging fictional narrative. The initial draft was relatively straightforward, focusing on character development and biographical elements. However, transforming these elements into a gripping thriller with unexpected twists proved more complex. The final chapters were particularly challenging as Mahajan worked to weave together the intricate plot threads and deliver a surprising and satisfying conclusion.

The book’s settings are integral to its narrative, creating an immersive atmosphere for readers. Key scenes in New Orleans, Florence, and Montpellier bring to life the novel’s high-stakes action and emotional depth. The finale, set in Montpellier, stands out as a favorite among readers and showcases the culmination of Nikhil’s journey.

Dr. Mahajan’s first foray into fiction has been met with enthusiasm with readers and attendees of some of his book introductions in Delhi, Gurgaon and Pune. Over 250 copies have been sold in the first two months, and additional book events in India and the US promise to further highlight the novel’s global appeal and celebrate its success.

For aspiring authors, Dr. Mahajan offers a piece of advice: “Never give up. Starting is the hardest part, and the middle can be tough. But persistence will lead you to a fulfilling end.”

Gravity of a Promise is now available for purchase at major retailers and online platforms, e.g. Amazon, NotionPress and Flipkart. An Ebook version is available on Kindle, and an audio version, narrated by Dr. Mahajan himself, is available on Audible.

About the Author

Dr. Ajay Mahajan is a distinguished scientist, professor, and entrepreneur with a career spanning over three decades. Born in Birmingham, England, and raised in India, he has lived and worked across three continents. Mahajan holds advanced degrees in mechanical engineering from Tulane University and has authored over 150 technical papers. His diverse career includes roles at NASA, the US Department of Defense, and Formula One teams Renault F1 and Toyota F1. Gravity of a Promise is his first venture into fiction, blending his rich life experiences with a thrilling narrative.

About the Book

Gravity of a Promise is a high-octane thriller that delves into the life of Nikhil Nanda, who makes a solemn vow to his dying father. This promise thrusts him into a dangerous adventure across Chicago, New Orleans, Florence, Montpellier, and Agra. The novel combines personal history with a fast-paced plot, offering readers a glimpse into the glamorous world of Formula One racing and the complexities of family honor. With its blend of action, suspense, and international intrigue, Gravity of a Promise promises to captivate and engage readers worldwide.

August 16, 2024: Sony BBC Earth, a pioneer in bringing forth thought-provoking content and inspiring initiatives for the Indian audiences, is proud to announce Shaan Lalwani as its ‘Earth Champion’ for the month. This recognition highlights Shaan’s contribution towards environmental conservation and sustainability for a cleaning detergent formula that is totally biodegradable.

Shaan Lalwani’s journey towards sustainability began with a personal awakening. During her travels, Shaan witnessed the harmful effects of chemical pollution on marine life. The cleaning agents that form an integral part of our daily routine contain chemicals that pollute water bodies. Hence, Shaan came up with an eco-friendly alternative and founded Coco Custo, a company that makes non-toxic and biodegradable laundry detergents.

Sony BBC Earth’s ‘Earth Champions’ initiative aims to celebrate individuals like Shaan who move the needle in bringing sustainability into the everyday lives of people, making a tangible difference to the environment. The monthly property showcases the work done by the Earth Champion as short-form content with a compelling score. The video is telecast on the channel and promoted on the online medium.

Rohan Jain, Business Operations Head – Sony AATH and Head – Marketing & Insights, English Cluster, Sony Pictures Networks India.

“As a brand, we have always strived to present to the viewers stories that exemplify passion, drive inspiration, and encourage sustainable practices. Our Earth Champions initiative is a perfect embodiment of this commitment. We are pleased to announce Shaan Lalwani as our latest Earth Champion. Her journey demonstrates that making small efforts can help one lead an eco-conscious life and inspire others to follow.”

Shaan Lalwani (Founder, Coco Custo), Earth Champion of Sony BBC Earth

“It is an honour to receive the title of Earth Champion by Sony BBC Earth. I am glad that the channel has given me a platform to help my story reach so many people, and I hope it inspires them to reflect upon every step they take. I believe every individual has the power to drive positive change towards environment conservation.”