Archives August 2024

India, 29 August 2024 – Himalaya Wellness Company, one of India’s leading wellness brands, has recently announced the achievement of planting over one million trees across India. This significant accomplishment was celebrated in a special event where the one millionth tree was planted by dedicated Himalaya employees, marking a step in the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Forests are vital for the health of the planet, serving multiple essential functions such as sequestering carbon, regulating temperatures, managing freshwater, and preventing erosion. They host 80% of terrestrial biodiversity and support around 350 million people with food and resources. However, their degradation is severely threatening these essential ecological functions and the biodiversity they sustain.

Recognizing the urgency of preserving these invaluable ecosystems, especially in areas of high ecological significance, Himalaya Wellness Company has taken proactive steps to protect and restore forested regions. In alignment with UNESCO’s recognition of the Western Ghats as a biodiversity hotspot in 2012, Himalaya pledged to preserve this ecological treasure alongside visionary NGOs and local communities. They have undertaken an extensive tree planting initiative across the Western Ghats, planting over nine lakh trees to restore and preserve the region’s rich biodiversity. In Maharashtra alone, the company has planted over eight lakh trees in regions including Lanja, Zapade, Salpe, Majal, and Gavane in Ratnagiri, extending their efforts to Kolhapur, Solapur, and Pune. In Karnataka, more than one lakh trees have been planted in areas including Dharwad, Belagavi, Chikkaballapur, Bengaluru, and Sirsi. Additionally, the company has expanded their environmental conservation efforts to Meghalaya, planting over 30,000 indigenous species in the terrains of Kyrdemkhla, Perkseh, and Mawphlang.

The tree planting efforts contribute significantly to the region’s biodiversity, providing habitats for various species and helping to sequester carbon. According to environmental experts, the reforestation of these areas plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change and enhancing local ecosystems’ resilience. These initiatives also help prevent soil erosion, which is vital for maintaining the health of the Western Ghats.

Commenting on the achievement, KG Umesh, Director-Human Resources, Himalaya Wellness Company, shares, “The Company’s efforts are supported by strong collaborations with NGOs, government agencies, and other organizations. These partnerships have enhanced the impact of the projects, allowing for the sharing of resources and expertise. Community involvement has also been a crucial factor towards the success of these initiatives. Local community members and NGOs have actively participated, bringing invaluable local knowledge, and fostering a sense of ownership. The initiative is rooted in the Company’s core philosophy of ‘Care for Life,’ which encapsulates the vision of ‘Wellness in every Home and Happiness in every Heart.’ At Himalaya, we believe that products beneficial for people should also be beneficial for the planet.”

India hosts three of the world’s 34 “global biodiversity hotspots”—the Western Ghats, the Eastern Himalayas, and the Indo-Burma region—each rich in unique species but facing severe conservation threats. The rapid degradation of these areas necessitates immediate and vigorous conservation efforts to protect their unique biota and halt biodiversity loss. The immense value of this biodiversity lies in its role in sustaining and nourishing human communities, providing essential resources and ecosystem services.

Lt. Cdr. Deokant Payasi (Retd.), CEO and Trustee – SayTrees Environmental Trust, shares, “The profound ecological benefits visible from our collaboration with Himalaya over the past four years have been remarkable. This initiative, strategically focused on village commons, has not only augmented the availability of tree-based resources for local communities but also mitigated the pressure on deep forest ecosystems. By fostering sustainable land use and enhancing community resilience, this partnership exemplifies our commitment to nurturing a harmonious balance between human needs and nature’s vitality.”

Padmanabha Hegde, a farmer from Bekematha (Sirsi), shares, “We have witnessed the planting of over 1.7 lakh trees in our region in 2024. There are more than 100 species, which provide fruit, timber, medicine, fodder, dry leaf, pollen, and nectar for honeybees. It is likely to help resolve the human wildlife conflict in the near future, apart from conserving the local biodiversity. Thanks to Himalaya Wellness Company for supporting this noble cause. We, the farmers, and various local community organizations surely benefited from this initiative, and we commit to the long-term protection of the planted seedlings.”

As part of their ambitious 2030 vision, Himalaya Wellness Company aims to plant five million trees and source 95% of herbs from farms employing regenerative practices. This commitment reflects the company’s dedication to sustainable development and community welfare, focusing on long-term positive impact rather than short-term gains.

Himalaya’s efforts extend beyond environmental conservation. The company supports 600 farmers from 70 villages, fostering economic upliftment and sustainability. In Meghalaya, Himalaya collaborates with the Khasi tribe to build eco-villages and promote sustainable farming practices. Additionally, the company equips marginalized farmers with skills in vermicomposting, beekeeping, and mushroom cultivation, enabling them to achieve sustainable farming practices and generate additional income.

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 28 August 2024: The Esports World Cup – watched by a total of 500 million viewers worldwide – and New Global Sport Conference have concluded in Riyadh, as Saudi Arabia ushered in a new era for gaming and esports.

The summer of esports saw HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, present Saudi Arabian club Team Falcons with the Esports World Cup Club Championship trophy on Sunday.

Featuring the best clubs, the best players and the best games, the inaugural Esports World Cup hosted 22 tournaments across 21 titles for a duration of two months. A total prize pool of $60 million, the largest prize pool in the history of esports, was on offer for the tournament held at Boulevard Riyadh City.

The second edition of the New Global Sport Conference 2024 (NGSC) heard how esports, the new global sport, will merge traditional sport and its modern counterpart in a form of entertainment catalyzing people from all sectors of society and sparking economic growth.

The conference gathered more than 60 global speakers and 200 CEOs among 1,200 attendees from gaming, esports, technology, sports, entertainment, business and investment at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh At Kingdom Center.

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, said: “The Esports World Cup and New Global Sport Conference have ushered in a new dawn for gaming and esports across the globe, as well as Saudi Arabia’s sports and entertainment sectors. There is so much to be excited about and so much potential to fully capture.

“As I mentioned in my opening remarks at the New Global Sport Conference on Sunday, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to gaming and esports is unwavering. We believe in the transformative power of gaming and esports – not just as forms of entertainment but as catalysts for economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural exchange. Our faith in this industry is not just about its potential but also the people who drive it – the players, the fans, the publishers, the developers, the leaders who envision its future.

“As the Kingdom prepares to host the first-ever Olympic Esports Games in 2025, we look back at this summer of esports with pride and accomplishment while looking forward to what is to come with immense anticipation and belief.”

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, the hosting entity of the Esports World Cup, said: “The Esports World Cup has been a milestone moment in Saudi Arabia’s mission to elevate esports and attract a broader global audience.

“The success of the Esports World Cup has simultaneously been the success of Riyadh. Successfully hosting such a prestigious event highlights the capital city’s commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with a vibrant gaming culture. By creating an exceptional environment for both players and fans, Riyadh has set a new standard for global esports, proving that innovation and passion can transform any city into a hub for digital excellence.

“The second edition of the New Global Sport Conference was also another prime example of this. My panel appearance with Magnus Carlsen, the chess grandmaster and five-time World Champion, showed precisely the vast potential of merging traditional games and sports with their digital futures.”

In addition to Carlsen, the former Manchester United and France international footballer Patrice Evra was another celebrity attendee at NGSC. Evra shared his thoughts on a panel called ‘Becoming a Modern Sports Hero – Sports, Gaming and the Relentless Pursuit of Excellence’ alongside Gabriel “FalleN” Toledo, the Brazilian national Counter-Strike II player for FURIA Esports. Carlsen appeared with Reichert on a fascinating panel session entitled entitled ‘Chess, Esports: Strategy Redefined Together – From the Chessboard to the Digital Arena’.

Esports World Cup 2024 in numbers

• Total Hours Watched: More than 250 million across all platforms
• Highest Peak Concurrent Viewership: 3.5 million (League of Legends)
• Total Viewers: 500 million
• Tickets Sold: More than 175,000
• Boulevard Riyadh City Visits: More than 2 million
• Clubs: More than 200
• Players: More than 1,500

The Future is Bright: Our Ambitions Are Limitless

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal said: “The success of the Esports World Cup and New Global Sport Conference is just the beginning. Our ambition to become a global hub for gaming and esports knows no bounds. The Kingdom’s involvement at regional and international levels will become even more influential over the next few years. Recent strategic initiatives and investments in gaming and esports have galvanized the ecosystem, helping to create today’s vibrant and opportunistic landscape.

“With continued support and investment, Saudi Arabia is poised to become the world’s go-to destination for gaming and esports by 2030. We are actively seeking and establishing partnerships with international esports organizations, companies, and influencers to facilitate knowledge transfer, expertise, and global integration.”

This is Just the Beginning

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal added: “As we look to the future, it’s clear that the best is yet to come. The Esports World Cup’s success, coupled with the insights and innovations shared at the New Global Sport Conference, proves that we are on the right path. Together, we will continue to elevate the sector, contribute meaningfully to its development, and shape its future on a global scale.
“To everyone who contributed to the success of the Esports World Cup and the New Global Sport Conference, thank you. Your dedication and passion have set a new standard for the industry, and we look forward to what the future holds. Together, we will build a brighter, more connected world through the power of esports and gaming.”

By: Anugyan Sharma and Prof PB Sharma

As the global community moves deeper into the era of great opportunities to innovate and excel, creating an upsurge of economic growth and advancement of human society to new altars of scientific advancement and game-changing technology innovations, universities are required to do a serious rethinking of redesigning curriculums to gravitate with an integrative environment of learning and research. Such an environment shall unleash the power of creativity and infinite power of innovative genius of students and scholars. This will also pave the way for the most effective interface with industries and the policymakers in the government who always look for innovative outcome from the scholastic and innovative minds of the university community. This becomes all the more important today when the rich talent pool of university students and scholars have a great opportunity to collaborate and with the easy access to the vast knowledge reservoir, and create deeper insights into both learning and research in their degree programs. Students today have opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and innovations if great value to the community and the industry.

It is therefore important to create an enabling ecosystem for the talent to flourish in an integrative environment of education and research and give expressions to immense creativity and innovativeness that the new generation of learners are endowed with.

Education Research and Practical Nexus

This integrative environment of education and research promotes learning by doing, engagement in deep learning, and above all creates learning to exploration of the vast horizons of knowledge with the joy of knowing beyond conceivable limits of knowledge. In a learning environment that is increasingly becoming technology-integrated and will be driven more and more by AI the new generation learners and scholars must learn to make responsible use of these technologies. AI is going to provide great capabilities of exploring into unknown and that too along the data-driven intelligent pathways that otherwise were so difficult given the complexity of situation and abundance of data and possibilities.

The Challenge of Responsible Use of AI:

With great advancement of science and technology comes great responsibility to use technology empowerment with great care. We need systems in place both within the devices and in operating system of technology gadgets that shall impact human behavior and promote the responsible use of AI to learn.

Quest for Self-Learning and Collaborative Research:

Needless to say that much of the learning in the new age shall be facilitated by self-learning as the interactive feature of smart and intelligent devices and systems today offer great convenience for knowing and learning. It is in this respect too the integration of education with research, the quest to explore and discover offers a great way forward to navigate into the deep and exciting horizons of learning and research.

Challenges of AI-Driven Research:

AI-driven research, while offering immense opportunities for deep learning and research, is often associated with monumental challenges largely rising out of ethical and moral considerations, especially in medical, pharmaceutical and life sciences research. Francis McKay et al (2022) in their well-researched article on “The ethical challenges of artificial intelligence-driven digital pathology’ in the Journal of Pathology: Clinical Research has clearly identified four key ethical issues to be considered when deploying AI infrastructures in pathology, namely, privacy, choice, equity, and trust. The authors have emphasized the need for robust public governance mechanisms in AI-driven digital pathology. The premise for use of AI-driven research in other areas including agriculture and food science will require such a robust public governance mechanism.

Action Plan for Synergy Between Education and Research in a University:

1. Cultivate a Culture of Inquiry:

To create a research-focused academic environment, it is essential to integrate research findings into the curriculum, which will enrich course content, and promote discussions of critical thinking. Additionally, implementing research mentorship programs can pair students with faculty members, providing hands-on experience as well as personalized guidance. Establishing dedicated funding and resources for undergraduate research projects will further support this initiative, and ensure that students have ample opportunities to engage in meaningful research.

2. Foster Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

To Forster interdisciplinary collaboration, establishing cross-disciplinary research centers is the key. These centers can promote collaboration between faculty and students of carious fields, and can encourage innovative approaches to complex problems. Developing interdisciplinary courses that draw from multiple subjects further supports this goal, allowing students to engage with diverse perspectives. Additionally, encouraging faculty members from different departments will create joint research projects that can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and a more integrated academic community.

3. Promote Knowledge Transfer:

Enhancing faculty development is crucial, and this can be achieved by providing training on effective teaching methods, research dissemination, and knowledge transfer. Additionally, establishing technology transfer offices can facilitate the commercialization of research findings, generating revenue for the university. Collaborating with industry partners further supports these efforts by translating research into practical applications and creating job opportunities for graduates.

4. Enhance Research Infrastructure:

Investing in state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment is essential for advancing scientific inquiry and innovation. Securing external funding through grants, contracts, and donations further supports these research initiatives, ensuring that projects are well-resourced. Additionally, providing robust support for data management, analysis, and visualization is crucial, enabling researchers to effectively handle and interpret complex datasets.

5. Recognize and Reward Excellence:

Incorporating research contributions into faculty evaluation criteria ensures that scholarly work is valued and rewarded. Establishing awards and recognition programs for outstanding research achievements further encourages a culture of excellence. Additionally, recognizing student research excellence through prizes and scholarships motivates and supports the next generation of researchers.

6. Measure and Evaluate:

To effectively measure and evaluate the synergy between education and research, it’s essential to develop key performance indicators that track progress and impact. Regular assessments should be conducted to identify areas for improvement, allowing for adjustments to the action plan as needed to ensure continuous enhancement of educational and research outcomes.

By implementing these strategies, universities can create a vibrant and dynamic environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and intellectual growth for both faculty and students.

Let the new age of AI assisted learning and research create both the talent pool as well as enrich knowledge reservoirs beyond conceivable limits of knowledge and empower the global humanity to overcome the monumental challenges and create a bright and blissful future on planet Mother Earth.

Anugyan Sharma is pursuing bioengineering at UC San Diego and Prof. PB Sharma is the Vice Chancellor of Amity University Gurugram and has been the founding Vice Chancellor of DTU Delhi.

Bengaluru, August 28, 2024 ─ The winners of the 2024 Brillio National STEM Challenge, a one-of-its-kind educational initiative in India, were announced today in Bengaluru at the grand finale of a national competition that showcased the incredible talent and innovation of young minds from across the country. This marked the fourth edition of the competition, organized by Brillio, a leader in digital transformation services, in partnership with STEM Learning, a social enterprise focused on driving STEM education among school children.

The grand finale was conducted with the support of the National Education Foundation under their “We Care, We Share” initiative, and National Hill View Public School, Banashankari, Bengaluru.

Brillio National STEM Challenge provides a unique STEM learning platform to underserved students of government and government-aided schools across India as part of Brillio’s ongoing focus on skills development. It is designed to foster and celebrate creativity, ingenuity, design thinking, and problem-solving skills among students from grades 6 through 10, regardless of their background.

The finale marked the culmination of year-long STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) activities, including science and mathematics model competitions, technology quizzes, and engineering tinkering. The finale was attended by more than 60 students and 25 teachers from 12 states.

Over the last year, more than 2,000 students from 20 states were trained in new-age technologies by volunteers from Brillio and STEM Learning. These students competed in over 90 cluster and zonal rounds. The top 27 teams from 12 states ─ Maharashtra, Karnataka, Jharkhand, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan, Odisha, Punjab, and Goa ─ made it to the national finale.

Esteemed Chief Guests

• Mr. D. K. Shivakumar, Honorable Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka
• Mr. Madhu Bangarappa, Honorable Education Minister of Karnataka

Esteemed Guests of Honor

• Ms. B. B. Cauvery, I.A.S., Commissioner for Public Instruction, Government of Karnataka
• Ms. Aisshwarya DKS Hegde, Trustee-Secretary, Schools of National Education Foundation (NEF)
• Dr. B. R. Guruprasad, Director, Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, Bengaluru
• Mr. Ashutosh Pandit, CEO, STEM Learning
• Mr. Siva Perubotla, MD and CIO, Brillio
• Ms. Kusuma H, Social Leader
• Mr. Abhishek Ranjan, Global Head of Sustainability, Brillio

Celebrated Mentors, Speakers, and Jury Members

The contestants were judged, and the winners felicitated by eminent personalities from the worlds of science, education, and technology. They included:

• Mr. Ashok Pamidi, Former CEO, NASSCOM Foundation
• Ms. Sudeepta Banerjee, Head of Resource Mobilization, Concern India Foundation
• Ms. Kathleen Ulrich, MD and Global Head of Marketing, Brillio
• Dr. Sarnam Singh, Senior Scientist, Former Dean, Nalanda University
• Mr. Alexandre Besnard, Digital Admin, LP4Y
• Dr. G. N. Dayananda, Outstanding Scientist (retired), Technology Management Directorate, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)
• Ms. Anupama Ramachandra, Founder Principal, Delhi Public School Electronic City, Bengaluru
• Mr. Vishwottam Kandikere, PhD, Assistant Vice President and Head ─ DMPK, Syngene International Limited
• Ms. Sunita Sharaf, Director, EDUscope

Ms. Aisshwarya DKS Hegde,Trustee-Secretary, National Education Foundation, said: “At National Education Foundation under We Care We Share initiative, we are deeply committed to nurturing STEM skills as the cornerstone of a brighter, more equitable future. Partnering with Brillio and STEM Learning in hosting the exciting finale of the National STEM Challenge has been a profoundly fulfilling experience. Witnessing students from diverse backgrounds showcase their creativity and problem-solving abilities with commendable originality, passion, and ingenuity has reaffirmed our belief in the transformative power of education. This initiative not only celebrates their creativity and achievements but also underscores the immense potential of technology to tackle complex global challenges and inspire the change-makers of tomorrow.”

Mr. Ashok Pamidi, Former CEO, NASSCOM Foundation, said: “The National STEM Challenge is more than just a competition — it is a movement towards democratizing STEM skills and empowering the next generation of thinkers and innovators. Unlocking the full potential of every individual is vital to making sure that talent and innovation are not confined by privilege but are harnessed from every corner of society. It is by enabling access to these critical skills that we can build a future where diverse ideas drive positive change.”

Dr. Sarnam Singh, Senior Scientist, said: “In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, STEM skills are indispensable. The National STEM Challenge is a testament to the potential of every student, regardless of their background, to rise to the challenge and showcase their creativity and ingenuity. These young minds are the future architects of India’s global competitiveness. By empowering underprivileged youth, we can tap into a rich vein of talent from rural and urban areas, bringing innovative ideas, setting the stage for future innovations, and making India the global hub of a skilled and versatile workforce.”

Mr. Abhishek Ranjan, Global Head of Sustainability at Brillio, said: “The creativity and ingenuity displayed by these students are truly remarkable. The National STEM Challenge highlights the problem-solving abilities of our youth. Given the right opportunities, they can achieve wonderful things. Providing these opportunities is an investment in a future where diverse perspectives are necessary to solve complex problems, and shape a more inclusive world. It is a moral and strategic imperative of our times to create a world where everyone has the chance to contribute to and benefit from progress.”

Mr. Ashutosh Pandit, Founder of STEM Learning, said: “We are pleased that the fourth edition of the National STEM Challenge has successfully fulfilled our objective of igniting a passion for science and technology among students from all corners of India. It is about empowering a generation to dream beyond boundaries. When we inspire curiosity, we plant the seeds of innovation. We are proud of our collaboration with Brillio in enabling students to pursue and imbibe highly sought-after STEM skills to foster individual and societal progress.”

Ms. Bhakti Varekar, a student at S.V.P.M. Secondary School, Kalwa, Thane, said: “Taking part in the National STEM Challenge has been an amazing adventure for me and my friends. It has convinced us that with curiosity and hard work, we can turn our ideas into real impact. We now believe that we have the power to bring about change, no matter where we come from. This competition has expanded our perspectives and sparked a lasting enthusiasm for creativity and learning. We are immensely thankful to Brillio, STEM Learning, and our mentors for this opportunity. We’ve learned that our background doesn’t define our future—our passion for science and technology does.”

Winners of National STEM Challenge 2024

Here’s a list of winners:

National Science & Math Model Making Awards:

• 1st: Deepak Kumar, (Basic School, Chota Govindpur, Jamshedpur), and Sunny Kumar, Basic School, Chota Govindpur, Jamshedpur)
• 2nd: Jishan Baidya (Bishnupur Sir Ramesh Institution) and SK. Farhan Uddin (Bishnupur Sir Ramesh Institution)

National Tech & Engineering Tinkering Awards:

• 1st: Dhrubajyothi Paik (Jadavpur Vidyapith, Kolkata) and Aditya Mondal (Jadavpur Vidyapith, Kolkata)
• 2nd: Maroju Harsha Vardhan Chary (ZPHS Nagol, Hyderabad) and Srikar Savanth (ZPHS Nagol, Hyderabad

National STEM Master Maker 2024 Awards:

• Dhrubajyothi Paik (Jadavpur Vidyapith, Kolkata)
• Jishan Baidya (Bishnupur Sir Ramesh Institution)

National STEM Teacher’s Award:

• Dattatray Raskar, Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule Madhyamik Vidyalaya, Naigaon (Pune)

28th August 2024, Bhubaneswar: The Utkal Chamber of Commerce and Industry Limited (UCCIL) is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated Resurgent Odisha 2024: A Global Trade Show, set to take place from August 30th to September 1st, 2024, at JanataMaidan, Bhubaneswar.

This event, supported by the Government of Odisha and the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), promises to be a landmark occasion in Odisha’s economic and industrial journey.

Resurgent Odisha 2024 aims to showcase the tremendous growth and opportunities that Odisha offers in various sectors, including Information Technology (IT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), manufacturing, and more. The event is designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and networking among industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders from around the globe.

Talking about Resurgent Odisha 2024, Mr Brahma Mishra, President, UCCIL said that, “Govt of India has set an ambitious plan to make India a 30 trillion dollar economy by 2047. To reach the target every state needs to contribute one trillion dollars each. In this context, as a vibrant economy, Odisha has to contribute substantially. The expo is aimed at supplementing the state to achieve the target. Representatives of different countries, embassies and industries, PSUs, MNCs, academic to participate in the expo. With the help of our partners we will prepare a white paper on how Odisha can achieve one trillion dollar economy target and will submit it to both the Centre and State Government.”

During this event, esteemed leaders were in attendance, including Dr. Brahma Mishra, President, UCCIL, Mr. Tarini Prasad Mohanty, Vice President, UCCIL, Mr. Ashok Kumar Sharda, Honorary Secretary, UCCIL, Mr. Prabodh Mohanty, Chairman, Resurgent Odisha 2024 – UCCIL Global Trade Show, Mr. Pankaj Mohanty, Co-Chairman, Resurgent Odisha 2024 – UCCIL Global Trade Show, Mr. Manoj Prusty, Convenor, Resurgent Odisha 2024 – UCCIL Global Trade Show and Mr. Kalyan Mohanty, ED, IPICOL, Govt of Odisha.
The event will feature a series of exhibitions, workshops, and panel discussions with industry experts, offering participants an unparalleled opportunity to explore cutting-edge projects, innovative solutions, and the latest trends in the market, Mr. Mishra said. It will also provide a platform for businesses to forge valuable partnerships and collaborations, driving forward the momentum of growth and development in Odisha, he added.

Elaborating the takeaways this event offers, the UCCI President said that there shall be ample opportunities for all the stakeholders to connect with industry leaders, experts, and innovators from across the globe. “Discover the latest advancements in IT, AI, manufacturing, and more. Gain insights from thought leaders on the future of industry and technology. Explore new opportunities and build strategic alliances for growth,” he said exhorting participants from Odisha.

We are honoured to collaborate with prestigious organizations such as the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and Assocham. Their support is crucial in making Resurgent Odisha 2024 a grand success, he said.

Los Angeles, August 27, 2024—Incogni, a leader in data privacy protection, is proud to announce the launch of its new brand identity. This rebrand reflects the company’s commitment to empowering individuals to regain control over their personal data. Incogni’s updated identity captures the significance of privacy issues while reinforcing trust, reliability, and a humanized approach toward users.

As the digital world evolves, so do the challenges individuals face in protecting their personal information. Incogni’s previous brand elements no longer aligned with the mission’s gravity. The decision to establish a new identity was driven by the need to better represent the company’s role as a protector and advocate for user privacy.

“We realized that our brand needed to reflect the seriousness of our work,” said Darius Blejevas, Head of Incogni. “Our new brand identity is not just a facelift—it’s a statement about our commitment to being a protector of security and a trusted ally in the fight for data privacy.”

At the heart of Incogni’s brand is the Hero archetype—a defender and protector, standing strong against the tide of data brokers and online threats. This archetype is embodied in the company’s values of courage, reliability, and empathy. Incogni’s new identity draws from these qualities and aims to inspire trust and confidence in its users.

The rebrand introduces a unified design language that moves from extensive simplicity to a more purposeful and meaningful aesthetic. The updated visuals feature a distinct frame concept, symbolizing Incogni’s role as a protective barrier between users and the various cybersecurity threats surrounding them. The vivid colors represent power and courage to face challenges.

“The frame concept with a closing toggle in Incogni’s logo is central to our new design,” explained Rytis Eidukaitis, Lead Product Designer at Incogni. “It represents how Incogni creates a safe space for our users, shielding them from the ‘sandstorm’ of cyber threats.”

Incogni’s new brand identity sets it apart from competitors by offering a highly customizable design approach. This allows the company to tailor its visual assets for different audiences and campaigns, ensuring the brand remains relevant and consistent across various channels.

“After introducing a Family Plan and Multiple Data Points to our tool, the rebrand is another important step in establishing our presence as a personal information protector and leader in data removal,” added Mateusz Zalubski, Head of Marketing at Incogni. “We’re excited to see how this new identity will help us connect with even more people seeking to take control of their digital experiences.”

The new visual identity was developed by Incogni’s Design and Marketing teams with the support of the Sons & Daughters ID branding agency.

Dubai, UAE, 27 August 2024: Writer Relocations, a leading global player in the relocation industry, underscores the UAE’s emergence as a preferred destination for hedge fund traders. This trend is driven by the country’s robust business environment, tax-free status, and strategic location as a global travel hub.

The UAE has witnessed a significant influx of financial institutions and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) relocating their operations to the region. According to a recent report, the UAE has set an ambitious target to attract Dh550 billion ($150 billion) in foreign investment by 2031 and eventually reach Dh1 trillion by 2051. The UAE’s strategic geographical position, connecting financial markets across North America, Europe, and Asia, makes it an ideal base for global portfolio management.

With over 75 years of experience, Writer Relocations offers comprehensive end-to-end services in the people and asset mobility sector, handling more than 8,000 relocations annually. The company caters to the needs of employees and executives from over 3,000 global companies, solidifying its status as a premier mobility partner.

Anoop Bosco, Regional Head Middle East at Writer Relocations, stated: “Dubai’s rise as a favoured destination for hedge fund traders is a testament to its dynamic business environment and strategic advantages. The city offers ease of doing business and a tax-free status that is highly attractive to traders. Additionally, its time zone is particularly beneficial for portfolio managers overseeing investments across multiple continents. It is a source of pride for us to support the influx of financial professionals to Dubai, ensuring a seamless transition for individuals and their families as they relocate to this vibrant hub.”

Writer Relocations provides a range of premium services tailored to the unique needs of HNWIs and financial professionals. These services include personalized relocation plans, comprehensive family support, and access to exclusive networks and amenities. The company’s extensive network, spanning 190 countries, enables it to deliver exceptional relocation experiences, ensuring clients receive the highest level of service and support.

Dubai’s status as a global financial centre is reinforced by its advanced infrastructure, exceptional amenities, and cosmopolitan lifestyle that attracts expatriates. The city’s commitment to innovation and its business-friendly environment continue to draw top talent and firms from around the globe.

The UAE’s robust economic strategies, coupled with its strategic location and favourable business environment, make it an attractive destination for hedge fund traders and HNWIs. Writer Relocations is dedicated to supporting this growth by providing exceptional relocation services, ensuring that professionals and their families can seamlessly transition to and thrive in the UAE.

Bengaluru, August 27, 2024: With over 8000 attendees and 6.4 lakh online viewers, Ola’s annual flagship tech event Sankalp (संकल्प) 2024 witnessed an overwhelming response. Organised at Ola’s Futurefactory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu on 15th August 2024, the event brought together the brightest minds in technology including students, developers, research scientists and motorcycle enthusiasts.

The event was live-streamed in 9 Indian languages – Hindi, English, Bengali, Tamil, Marathi, Gujarati, Malayalam, Telugu and Kannada across all its experience centres.

Some of the key announcements at Sankalp 2024 included:

• Ola Electric expanded its motorcycle portfolio with Roadster series; showcased the Bharat 4680 cell, solid-state battery technology, MoveOS 5, and advanced Gen-3 platform
• कृत्रिम (Krutrim), India’s own AI, unveiled its ambitious roadmap for enhancing its full-stack AI capabilities with an aim to establish India as a global AI hub
• Launched Ola Consumer to redefine the retail and commerce journey for consumers in India; announced innovations around ONDC, 100% electric logistics, AI-driven discovery, accessible credit, efficient and automated warehousing, robust manufacturing tech systems and loyalty program.

In addition to announcements across business verticals, Sankalp 2024 also featured a performance by three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej, with his musical line-up including ‘Shine Your Light’ dedicated to Ola. With attendees from various demographics, Sankalp had numerous interactive activities for all age groups offering a carnival-like experience. Some of the attractions included a lifesize Jenga, a ferris wheel, AI photo booths, and an Ola Merchandise Zone among others.

The maiden edition of the event underscored the need to reduce dependency on western technologies, foster India’s homegrown innovations, and focus on advancements in AI, sustainable energy and electric mobility.

Conceptualized as a bold move for introducing a new era of self-reliance and technological leadership – Sankalp 2024 was just the beginning of Ola’s flagship Intellectual Property (IP). Curated as an annual event, Sankalp is poised to reflect India’s journey through Amrit Kaal – a period of significant progress and self-realization – aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

India — August 27, 2024: Cloudera, the only true hybrid platform for data, analytics, and AI, announced it has achieved Level 1 compliance with the Payment Card Industry’s (PCI) Data Security Standard (DSS) for Service Providers. This certification demonstrates Cloudera’s commitment to cybersecurity and compliance in its mission to help financial institutions unlock business value from AI. With this milestone, Cloudera’s Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Private Cloud (PVC) are both PCI DSS v4.0 compliant, the newest major version of the framework.

PCI DSS standards define rigorous security controls and processes for entities involved in the payment ecosystem, as well as requirements for developers and solution providers to build and securely manage payment devices, software, and solutions for the payment industry.

As the rise of e-commerce has rapidly scaled the amount of data that financial institutions have under management, the need to protect that data has grown as well. According to the International Monetary Fund’s 2024 Global Financial Stability Report, the financial sector is the target for one-fifth of all cyber-attacks, and this risk is largely driven by its dependence on third-party IT providers. Certification with the most recent security standards for the PCI is a testament to Cloudera’s ability to quickly adapt to the latest financial sector security requirements, where threats are constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated.

AI has also transformed the financial sector in recent years, with financial institutions adopting virtual assistants, creating synthetic data for model training, generating research reports and investment summaries, and harnessing machine learning for fraud detection. As the vendor to eight of the top 10 global banks, Cloudera helps financial institutions harness the power of AI and Generative AI while navigating the associated risks, providing a secure environment for managing the vast volumes of data needed to train AI models.

“The financial services industry is undergoing significant digital transformation, and the ability to work with trusted third-party solution providers is critical to success” said industry analyst, Sanjeev Mohan. “Financial institutions can view compliance with rigorous frameworks, like PCI DSS 4.0, as an indicator that the partner they’re choosing to work with is one that can securely navigate the complexities of their data and thrive in this AI-powered future.”

“Cloudera’s achievement of this certification is a testament to our commitment to our financial sector customers,” said Natalia Belaya, Cloudera’s Chief Information Security Officer. “We strive to provide and maintain a secure and trusted platform to support our customers with evolving data initiatives and empower them to unlock greater value from AI.”

National — August 27, 2024: Birla Institute of Technology & Science (BITS) Pilani, an Institute of Eminence (IoE) that is globally renowned for its focus on innovation, hosted a convocation to commemorate the academic achievements of 7,839 working professionals. These professionals graduated in different MBA, M.Tech., M.Sc., and B.Tech. programmes from the institution’s Work Integrated Learning Programmes (WILP) division. While about 1,000 graduates attended the convocation in person, more than 6,800 graduates participated virtually with the help of the revolutionary Metaverse technology; nearly 111 of them graduated from 26 other countries as well.

During WILP’s second successive hybrid convocation, thousands of graduates had a memorable experience with the near-realistic convocation environment, as their personalized 3D avatars walked across a virtual stage to receive their degrees, thereby demonstrating the seamless fusion of a long-standing tradition and modern technologies. With the integration of 3D modelling and immersive technology, the participants also took virtual tours to explore the campuses of BITS Pilani.

Prof. Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of Executive Committee, National Assessment and Accreditation Council, graced the event as the Chief Guest and congratulated all the graduating students and their proud parents and loved ones. He stressed on the need to deal with successes and failures with a positive attitude, and to leverage knowledge and skills for the betterment of the society.

Ms. Saskia Loer Hansen, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, International & Engagement, RMIT University, who was the Guest of Honour, spoke about the importance of work-ready skills, preparedness, and life-long learning to contribute in these complex times. Commending the graduates, Dr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chancellor, BITS Pilani, remarked, “Today is your day of triumph. It is a day that signifies not just the culmination of an academic journey, but the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Your relentless dedication, unyielding spirit, and unwavering commitment have brought you to this remarkable moment.”

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao, Vice Chancellor of BITS Pilani said, “The WILP initiative from BITS Pilani not only helps working professional gain insights in academic and facilitates their growth but also ensures that these graduates are equipped to face real world challenges and the changing global landscape. Our dedication to blend tradition and technology into advancing education to meet the needs of the modern workforce is showcased through the wide range of students passing out from WILP. We wish all the passing students all the best for a bright fulfilling future in every field that they pursue.”

Prof. G. Sundar, Director, Off-Campus Programmes & Industry Engagement, BITS Pilani, in his congratulatory message to the working professionals, said, “In my view, the passion for continuous learning efforts, advancement of knowledge, and driving positive change are some of the key aspects that the new graduates can hold immense pride about, as they receive their degrees today and take further leaps in their professional growth. More than 124700 working professionals have graduated from WILP programmes over the years (till date), and the current active enrolment in various programmes is in excess of 46000 professionals; in addition to the quality of learning that is acquired, these impressive numbers too contribute immensely to addressing the talent gap that we are witnessing today — not just across several industries in India, but around the globe as well.”