Archives September 2024

Over 12,000 Members Discuss Skills, Technology, and the Future of India’s Infrastructure

New Delhi, India – September 22, 2024

The Club NPC Annual General Meeting (AGM) and networking event, held on September 21, 2024, at the PHD Chamber of Commerce in New Delhi, brought together over 15,000 members from various sectors of the construction industry. Leaders, professionals, and stakeholders participated in a landmark event that emphasized innovation, knowledge-sharing, and a unified approach to advancing India’s construction industry.

Keynote by ‘Airport King of India’ Sparks Dialogue on Skill Development and Technology

Prof. Charanjeet Singh Shah, renowned as the ‘Airport King of India’ for his work on major airports across the country, delivered a powerful keynote address, highlighting the importance of integrating new skills and technologies in the construction sector. “To meet the goals of Prime Minister Modi’s Viksit Bharat mission by 2047, we must equip our workforce with advanced skills like AutoCAD and artificial intelligence. This is not just about upgrading technology but uplifting laborers by imparting these critical skills,” said Prof. Shah.

Prof. Shah’s emphasis on skill development resonated with attendees as he outlined how technological advancements can align the construction industry with India’s ambitious growth targets.

Leaders of Club NPC Highlight Unity, Innovation, and Community Service

Mr. Yogesh Jagatramka, President of Club NPC India, opened the event by reiterating the organization’s core mission of creating a close-knit network to drive India’s progress. “We are a family of the people, by the people, and for the people. Together, we can reshape the future of India’s infrastructure by fostering collaboration and innovation across all sectors of the construction industry.”

Vice President Mr. Karan Arora emphasized the need for continual self-improvement: “Our focus on self-discovery and learning ensures that our members stay ahead of industry trends, continually upgrading their skills to remain competitive.”

Ms. Rieetu Bhatnagar, Secretary of Club NPC, celebrated the deep friendships and professional bonds formed within the organization, saying, “These relationships not only enhance our careers but also our personal growth.”

Md. Perwez, Director of Finance and Founder-Treasurer, lauded the role of Club NPC members during the pandemic. “Our members served like Corona Warriors, ensuring essential construction projects continued during the most challenging times. Their efforts demonstrated the power of unity and commitment to societal welfare,” said Perwez.

Driving Change and Future Growth

The event marked a significant moment for the construction industry, offering a platform for stakeholders to discuss the future of India’s infrastructure and the role of technology, education, and collaboration. The discussions and workshops are expected to set the stage for groundbreaking developments, helping India’s construction sector play a key role in the nation’s future growth trajectory.

Manesar, September 21, 2024– Amity University Haryana (AUH) conducted a seminar on the theme of ‘Nasha Mukti’ (Freedom from Intoxicants) at its Manesar campus, in collaboration with the District Red Cross, Gurugram. It aimed at raising awareness about drug addiction and its prevention among students and staff. It also underscored the importance of avoiding drugs, distractions, and delinquency, while emphasizing the development of essential professional and personal skills.

Prof. (Dr) P.B. Sharma, Vice Chancellor, AUH; Prof. (Dr) Vikas Madhukar, Pro-Vice Chancellor, AUH and Maj. Gen. J.S. Dhull (Retd.), Dean of Students Welfare (DSW), Prof Dr Sanjna Vij, Dy DSW, AUH felicitated the Chief Guest of the evening, Dr Mukesh Kumar Aggarwal, General Secretary, Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Haryana State Branch.

Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, AUH, Prof. Sharma during his welcome address, expressed his disdain for drugs and urged the students to not fall into its honey trap. “Drugs are destroying the youth of this country,” expressed Prof. Sharma. Amity University Haryana has been known for its ‘Zero Tolerance Policy’, within which the university ensures a strictly drug-free campus. Further, Prof Sharma shared his deep disappointment with the menace of intoxicants around the world, criticizing the glorification of drugs and alcohol in popular media and culture.

Dr Mukesh Kumar Aggarwal also addressed the AUH dignitaries, faculty, and students, sharing his concerns about the rampant abuse of alcohol and illegal drugs in the country. Urging the young students to not give in to the pitfalls of drug abuse, he said – “Desh humein deta hai kuch, hum bhi desh ko kuch denge. Apne desh ko param vaibhav tak lejaane mei sabse aage aap sab yuva hain!” (The country provides for us, so we must also provide for our country. It’s you all, the youth, who will lead the nation to supreme glory!). The Indian Red Cross Society is a voluntary humanitarian organization, known to provide relief in times of disasters/emergencies and promote health & care to the vulnerable people and communities in India. IRCS has 100 Blood Centres all over India and regularly organizes numerous blood donation camps with one such camp organized at AUH.

Among other guests who graced the evening was Dr Ajay, a renowned psychiatrist who works in association with a Gurugram-based NGO called ‘Antarmanh Foundation.’ Dr Ajay interacted with the students, discussing common myths about drugs and drug abuse along with its adverse effects on the human body and mind. Motivating the students to lead more positive and healthier lives, he said, “Aapko nashe ki taraf nahi, life ki taraf badhna hai!” (You must move towards life, not addiction!) Mr. Nitin Shrivastav, another dedicated advocate in this field, further discussed the harmful impact of drug abuse, urging both adolescents and college-going students to exercise more caution due to mental vulnerabilities faced at this sensitive age.

AUH’s acclaimed drama society- ‘Ek Awaaz’ performed a compelling play to spread awareness about drug abuse and its effects. As a token of appreciation, the troupe was awarded a trophy by AUH dignitaries and IRCS.

Embracing a unanimous appeal to abstain from drug abuse, Mr. Jitin Sharma, a representative of IRCS, administered an oath to the gathering, comprised of AUH dignitaries, faculty, staff, and students. Mr. Vikas Kumar, Secretary, of District Red Cross Society, Gurugram, extended a Vote of Thanks, expressing his gratitude to the attendees and the Chief Guest of the evening, Dr Mukesh Kumar Aggarwal, thanking them for their patience, commitment, and resilience in the fight against illegal drugs.

The chief organizers of the event were Maj Gen Dhull, Dean of Student Welfare (DSW), and Prof. Dr Sanjna Vij, Deputy DSW. Their dedication and leadership ensured that the seminar not only raised awareness but also empowered students to reject the allure of drugs and embrace a path of purpose, resilience, and positivity.

Mumbai, September 21, 2024: The inaugural session of the Meghalaya Media Meet was conducted today by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Government of Meghalaya focusing on “Redefining Journalism in the Digital Age.” The event was organized in Shillong with the aim to address issues concerning the transformation of journalism vis-à-vis technological advancements.

While addressing the gathering, Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister said, “When we sat down to decide on reforms or recognition and ways to improve the overall media sector, we realized that the government in general has not done enough to recognize the contributions of our journalists. That is where we felt the need to have such programs to recognise the contributions and hard work they have done, the sacrifices they have made and the challenges they have overcomed.” He also stated that this will foster interaction to connect with the media fraternity to figure out how to move forward in the larger interest of the media sector.

The Hon’ble Chief Minister also announced an amount of Rs. 1 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Special Grant which will be given to the senior journalists who were felicitated today. He stated that the larger goal is to see how things can be improved, the government will push to promote and support different exposures and trainings for media persons, “I believe the press plays a crucial role. Hence, I urge that we should work together in the larger interest of society.” On the issue of housing and pension for journalists, he mentioned that there are challenges that exist for the government, but they are working on how they can resolve if not 100 percent but at least 80 percent of the major issues.

The participation of journalists at the meet underscored their commitment to fostering the vibrant media environment and crucial dissemination of news to the citizens. Discussions were focused on challenges and opportunities which came with digital media and communication that highlighted how there is a need for journalists to follow suit, adapt and be innovative in the present digital age.

Dr Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Minister, Information & Public Relations stated that it is important to recognize the contributions of the media to the community at large. Speaking on the government’s focus on the rights, privileges and opportunities of media persons, she said that tangent ways of rewarding the media fraternity for their vigilance, constant lending of information and ability to be available are being thought of with the endeavour to ensure to improve their lives, and she hopes that housing facility and pension schemes for media personnel takes off in the right direction.

The meet included a panel discussion on navigating the evolving media landscape, in order to identify key challenges, the advantages and future of digital media. The panel discussion was followed by a session from Prof Indrajit Dube, Vice Chancellor, National Law University on press law and ethics, while the Press Information Bureau discussed on the topic of welfare schemes for journalists under Government of India. Senior journalists from various media houses in the state were also felicitated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister during the event.

In his keynote address, Shri Vijay Kumar Mantri, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, I&PR Department expressed his gratitude to the journalists of Meghalaya, “In a state like Meghalaya you have invested the last 30-40 years spending your entire life in media which is not an easy thing, unless you are very passionate, because it is not a profession where you can earn in monetary terms. I really admire the professionalism you are showing in the state.”

Speaking on the event’s theme, he stated that after the advent of social media, a lot of things have changed, the main being the cut in revenue that has happened to mainstream media, which is affecting them immensely, with the revenue having come down to 50 percent. Most importantly for the government, the main concern is that social media has become a platform for misinformation, and misleading information which is dangerous, and the government is trying to find ways to curb this. Shri Vijay Mantri also stated that unfortunately readership has come down not only in quantity but quality also, and now it has become superficial.

The event was graced by the presence of Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister; Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Minister for Information & Public Relations; Shri Vijay Kumar Mantri, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, I&PR Department; Shri M. S. Sangma, MCS, Director of Information & Public Relations; Prof. Indrajit Dube, Vice Chancellor, National Law University, Meghalaya; Dr. Manash P. Goswami, Department of Journalism & Mass Communication, NEHU, Shillong; senior journalists and members of the media fraternity among others.

Hyderabad, 20th September 2024: In celebration of International Day of Sign Languages, KFC is taking a monumental step in the hospitality industry, as it becomes the first QSR in India to launch a Sign Language training program for 100% of its employees. The first-of-its-kind training is required to be undertaken by all 17,000+ KFC employees, who are spread across 240+ cities in 1200+ restaurants, as well as those working in the brand’s corporate offices.

Designed in consultation with a Sign Language expert, the online training covers multiple modules specifically crafted for a beginner to grasp the basics of ISL. The first module is focused on the alphabets in ISL, while subsequent ones focus on greetings and regular phrases that are key for holding a conversation in Sign Language. The training is part of KFC India’s Kshamata program, which is aimed at feeding people’s potential, and bridging the gender and ability gap. Through Kshamata, KFC is committed towards empowering women and the speech and hearing-impaired across restaurants; and aims to double the number of speech and hearing impaired (SHI) employees, by 2026.

This year, as an extension of the #SpeakSign campaign, KFC aims to bring the entire hospitality industry together with the launch of India’s first interactive Sign Language kiosk that allows individuals to learn to order their favourite food items from across brands & cuisines using Indian Sign Language. This exhibit was unveiled at Select CityWalk, New Delhi and Ambience Mall, Gurugram, inviting consumers to learn to sign 30+ popular food items like Pizza, Burger, Dosa, Momos, Pasta, along with KFC favourites like Hot & Crispy, Chicken popcorn, Zinger.

Speaking about the initiative, Moksh Chopra, General Manager, KFC India & Partner Countries, said, “Through our KFC Kshamata program, one of the areas of focus has been to help unlock the potential and opportunities for the Hearing-impaired community. One of the most important steps towards this is spreading the usage of Sign Language and since 2021, our annual #SpeakSign campaign focuses on enabling this goal. This year, we are proud to announce that 100% of our teams will be trained in basic Indian Sign Language, making our restaurants across the country more inclusive. We’re also taking this Sign Language movement beyond just our organization into the hospitality industry. With the interactive kiosk at popular locations, we’re encouraging consumers to learn to order their favourite food items across brands using Sign Language.”

KFC India’s franchise partners Devyani International Limited (DIL) and Sapphire Foods India Limited (SFIL) have played an integral part in the Kshamata journey.

Pradeep Das, CEO, KFC at Devyani International Limited (DIL) said, “All of us at DIL are proud partners of KFC’s Kshamata initiative. Bridging the ability gap is critical to creating accessible and inclusive workplaces. The rollout of Sign Language training is a forward-thinking approach which will help ensure that we’re fostering an environment across all our restaurants and offices where speech and hearing-impaired individuals, whether teams or consumers, can interact confidently.”

Consumers can visit any of the 54 Special KFCs (operated by speech and hearing impaired employees) on International Day of Sign Language on 23rd September, and learn to #SpeakSign with team members as they encourage communication in ISL. Special Sign Language buckets and Sign Language menus have also been created to help consumers learn how to sign and order their KFC favorites, along with short tutorial videos on KFC’s social media channels and website.

Manipal, 20th September 2024: The third edition of the “Empowering Educators: Enhancing Counselling Skills for Student Support” workshop series was officially inaugurated today at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). This two-day workshop, organized by the Department of Student Affairs, aims to equip educators with advanced counseling techniques to better support students’ mental well-being and academic success.

The event commenced with a keynote address from Dr. E. Aravind Raj, Additional Professor of Psychiatric Social Work at NIMHANS, who delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking session. His insights set the tone for a productive workshop dedicated to fostering emotional support and effective student guidance.

Dr. Geetha Maiya, Director of Student Affairs at MAHE, welcomed the participants and provided an overview of the workshop’s goals, emphasizing the importance of enhancing faculty counseling skills to better support students. The event was compered by Ms. Shilpa Joshi, Senior Counselor at MAHE.

Deputy Directors, Dr. Roshan David Jathanna, Dr. Rashmi Yogesh Pai, and Dr. Aravind Kumar Pandey, also graced the occasion with their presence, further underscoring the importance of this initiative. The workshop is being led by Ms. Karuna Devadiga, Senior Counselor, with strong support from the dedicated team of counselors in the Department of Student Affairs.

Many faculty members from various MAHE institutions in Manipal and Mangalore participating, the workshop focuses on developing essential counseling skills. These skills will enhance faculty members’ ability to offer effective guidance and emotional support to students, contributing to a more supportive educational environment.

This initiative reaffirms MAHE’s commitment to prioritizing the mental well-being of its students and ensuring a nurturing atmosphere for their academic and personal growth.

Mumbai, September 20, 2024: ‘Belicia’ a luxurious residential project in Thane being developed by Prescon Group in collaboration with the esteemed House of Hiranandani has generated over 200 crores in revenue in Q1 of FY 2024-25, driven by the sale of more than 80 units.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Vedanshu Kedia, Director of Prescon Group said, “We are thrilled at achieving this remarkable milestone which underscores the strong market demand and the unparalleled appeal of our luxury offerings. As we continue to redefine upscale living in Thane, this achievement not only reflects our commitment to excellence but also positions Belicia as a beacon of luxury and a promising investment opportunity. We look forward to maintaining this momentum and delivering even greater value to our esteemed customers and investors, going forward.”

Belicia, a landmark 48-storey tower sprawling across 1.5 acres, is redefining luxury living in the Thane region with a RERA possession date set for June 2028. Located on the prestigious Nitin Company Compound near Nitin Company junction, it offers a prime address with easy access to top tier local transport, esteemed schools, renowned hospitals, business centers, malls, and dining options.

Belicia offers luxurious 2, 3, and 4 BHK apartments ranging from 779 to 1546 sq ft, starting at Rs. 1.85 crore. Each unit features marble flooring, expansive decks, ample natural light, and ventilation, with select apartments including foyer areas for added privacy. Residents will enjoy panoramic city views and serene Yeoor Hills vistas, with the first habitable floor starting on the 7th level.

According to a recent report by PropEquity, a leading real estate data and analytics firm, Thane has emerged as a standout performer in the real estate market for the first quarter of the calendar year 2024. The city achieved significant sales momentum, recording 26,702 units sold during this period. This impressive figure places Thane among the top cities in terms of quarterly sales, highlighting its robust real estate activity and growing market demand. The strong performance reflects a continued upward trend in property transactions and underscores Thane’s prominence in the real estate sector.

The recent approval by the Union Cabinet for the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project marks a significant milestone set to transform urban mobility and real estate in Thane. Set to become operational by 2029, this project will create vital connections between key residential and commercial hubs, driving substantial growth in the region. As a result, this will further epitomize Thane as an attractive market for investment and appreciation; significantly enhancing the area’s overall economic prosperity.

Panch Pakhadi in Thane (W) saw an 11% price appreciation and 3.02% rental yields in 2022, outperforming other Thane micro-markets. Limited housing supply, superior infrastructure, and upcoming projects are driving this growth. The area’s vibrant commercial hub around Nitin Company further boosts demand. With continued urban development, Panch Pakhadi offers strong investment potential and expected future returns.

Belicia in Panch Pakhadi, Thane is a prestigious address due to its strategic location near the Eastern Express Highway, Thane Railway Station, and upcoming Metro Line 4. Its rapid infrastructure development and connectivity make it highly desirable for both residential and commercial real estate, positioning it as one of the region’s top addresses.

20th September 2024: PropeEquity’s Q3 CY24 report reveals significant trends and developments in the Indian real estate market, highlighting a robust recovery driven by increased demand and investment activity. The report indicates a year-on-year growth in property transactions, reflecting renewed consumer confidence and a surge in homebuyer inquiries. Key metropolitan areas, particularly Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi NCR, continue to lead in sales, fueled by attractive financing options and ongoing infrastructure projects.

Additionally, the report emphasizes the growing interest in commercial real estate, particularly in the office and retail segments, as companies embrace hybrid work models and seek modern, flexible spaces. Investment in affordable housing remains strong, supported by government initiatives aimed at promoting home ownership. Overall, PropeEquity’s Q3 findings underscore a positive outlook for the real estate sector, with expectations for sustained growth as the market adapts to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions.

Kochi, 20th September 2024: The 31-year-old pregnant woman was facing the dilemma of her baby developing complications of anemia due to blood group incompatibility or facing complications of prematurity if delivered early. But the medical team Aster Medcity carried out a life-saving procedure for the unborn child . The procedure, known as Intrauterine Fetal Blood Transfusion (IUT), was performed to treat severe anaemia in a 32-week fetus, caused by Rh incompatibility between the mother and the father.

The mother, who is Rh-negative, was carrying a Rh-positive fetus, a scenario that can lead to severe complications if the mother is already immunised by prior pregnancy. The fetus was at risk of developing life-threatening conditions such as hydrops fetalis( accumulation of fluid causing extensive swelling) and heart failure. So both the mother and fetus were being monitored closely using blood investigations and ultrasound examinations.

When the fetus started showing Doppler changes, the medical team at Aster Medcity decided to perform an Intrauterine Fetal Blood Transfusion, a delicate outpatient procedure where O-negative blood was transfused directly into the fetus’s umbilical vein through the mother’s abdomen, all under the guidance of ultrasound. This approach was critical, as delivering the baby at that time could have resulted in lifelong complications due to extreme prematurity.

Over the course of three weeks, we monitored the fetus’s condition closely, allowing the baby to continue developing in the womb. Finally, the baby was safely delivered with minimal issues related to prematurity. This shows the importance of pre-natal scanning ” said Dr. Sindhu Pudhukudi-Consultant – Fetal Medicine, Aster Medcity -Kochi.

Intrauterine Fetal Blood Transfusion is a highly specialized procedure used to treat severe fetal anemia, often caused by Rh incompatibility. When a Rh-negative mother has previously been sensitized by delivering an Rh-positive baby, her immune system can produce antibodies that attack the red blood cells of a future Rh-positive fetus, leading to anemia. The procedure involves carefully transfusing compatible O-negative blood directly into the fetus, thereby stabilizing the baby and preventing severe complications.

Visakhapatnam, September 20, 2024: Brandix India Apparel City (BIAC) is pleased to announce its rebranding as Adhistan Integrated Industrial Park, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its journey. Since its inception in 2006, BIAC has evolved into a vertically integrated hub, employing over 100,000 employees. The rebranding to Adhistan represents a strategic shift towards creating a more inclusive environment for its diverse local and international customer base.

A Vision for Growth and Partnership

With its world-class infrastructure, Adhistan is uniquely positioned to foster opportunities for businesses seeking to thrive in a well-connected, integrated industrial environment. Spanning 1,000 acres, the Park will serve as a hub for industries beyond apparel, offering seamless connectivity, cutting-edge facilities, and access to a highly skilled workforce. This transformation aims to create a vibrant and diverse ecosystem, driving sustainable and inclusive growth.

Commitment to Sustainability

While diversifying its industrial focus, Adhistan will uphold BIAC’s legacy of sustainability, by continuing to prioritize environmentally responsible practices. Adhistan remains committed to supporting its partners and the wider community through sustainable industrial development.

Adhistan’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and unwavering focus on sustainability offer businesses a solid foundation for growth, collaboration, and long-term success.

20th September 2024, Mumbai- Wockhardt Hospitals Ltd., a reputed chain of tertiary care super-specialty hospitals in India, celebrated Patient Safety Week Patient Safety Week 2024, aligning with the global efforts of World Patient Safety Day. This year’s theme, “Improving Diagnosis for Patient Safety,” highlights the critical role that accurate and timely diagnosis plays in enhancing patient safety and healthcare outcomes. With the slogan, “Get it right, make it safe,” the hospital is focusing on reinforcing the importance of diagnostic accuracy and engaging patients, families, and healthcare professionals in a collective effort to improve safety across all departments and units.

Running parallel to the global patient safety campaign spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO), this week-long initiative at Wockhardt Hospitals will feature a series of educational activities and competitions designed to engage staff, patients, and their families. From interactive safety quizzes to poster competitions and safety pavilions, the hospital aims to create a comprehensive approach to patient safety awareness.

Key Activities for Patient Safety Week 2024:

● Workstations on International Patient Safety Goals (IPSG)

● Poster competition focusing on “Improving Diagnosis for Patient Safety”

● Patient & Family Quiz – Engaging patients and families in safety awareness

● Quiz competitions for associates and consultants

● Patient Safety Reels – 60-second videos by consultants with unit and group-level prizes

● Slogan competition and safety ideas

● Active involvement of patient safety officers, both clinical and non-clinical

● Education on critical test result awareness

Safety pavilions will be set up in collaboration with lab, imaging, and inpatient areas to educate patients about the importance of accurate diagnosis and safety procedures. These interactive stations will provide valuable insights to patients and their families, reinforcing Wockhardt Hospitals commitment to delivering safe and effective care.

Ms. Zahabiya Khorakiwala, Managing Director of Wockhardt Hospitals Group said during the launch, We are deeply committed to advancing patient safety and quality care. During Patient Safety Week 2024, we reaffirm our dedication to creating a culture of safety where every patient receives the highest standard of care.”

Dr. Clive Fernandes, Group Clinical Director and Chief Operating Officer of Wockhardt Hospitals Group, added: “Patient safety is an ongoing journey, and improving diagnosis is one of the key steps to enhancing patient outcomes. Through this initiative, we aim to engage associates, patients, and their families in fostering a safer healthcare environment.”

Dr. Parag Rindani, Chief Executive Officer of Wockhardt Hospitals Group, shared his thoughts: “At Wockhardt Hospitals, patient safety is at the heart of everything we do. Patient Safety Week 2024 highlights the vital role of accurate diagnosis in providing high-quality care. This initiative reinforces our commitment to excellence and patient-centric healthcare.”