Archives September 2024

Bandhan Mutual Fund Launches Bandhan Business Cycle Fund

NFO opens for subscription on September 10, 2024

Bandhan Mutual Fund Launches Bandhan Business Cycle Fund

Bengaluru, September 10, 2024: Bandhan Mutual Fund announced the launch of the Bandhan Business Cycle Fund, an open-ended equity scheme following a business cycle-based investing theme. The fund dynamically adjusts sector allocations according to the different phases of the economic cycle—Expansion, Peak, Contraction, and Slump—aiming to capture growth opportunities and manage risks across varying market conditions. The New Fund Offer (NFO) will open on Tuesday, 10 September 2024, and close on Tuesday, 24 September 2024. Investments in the Bandhan Business Cycle Fund can be made through licensed mutual fund distributors, financial advisors, online platforms.

Vishal Kapoor, CEO, Bandhan AMC added, “The Bandhan Business Cycle Fund takes a 360-degree approach, tapping into economic cycles, equity market trends, and sector dynamics to capture emerging opportunities. The Fund is designed to enhance portfolio diversification and aims to maximize returns while managing risks associated with economic fluctuations by adjusting sector allocations based on market conditions. The Bandhan Business Cycle Fund is ideal for investors with a long-term investment horizon and a higher risk appetite, looking to diversify their portfolios with a sector-rotation strategy that may enhance returns by capitalising on the economic cycle.”

The business cycles represent the natural rise and fall of economic growth, with each phase impacting different sectors in unique ways. For instance, financials and real estate may outperform during expansion phases, while consumer staples and utilities tend to be more resilient during contractions. With a top-down sector selection approach, the fund aims for substantial deviation in at least 3 of the top 5 sectors by weight in the Nifty 500 index. It offers diversification across market caps, focusing on robust businesses, with liquidity managed through a higher cash position of up to 15%. By strategically adapting its sector allocation, the Bandhan Business Cycle Fund aims to optimise returns by aligning investments with prevailing economic conditions.

Roberto Cavalli by Franck Muller Unveils the Iconic Signature Snake Collection

10th September 2024: Enter the era of heavenly luxury with the pristine Signature Snake Collection by Roberto Cavalli in collaboration with Franck Muller. This exquisite collection marries Italian opulence with Swiss precision, exhibiting the bold design and timeless sophistication that the House of Cavalli is renowned for.

Each timepiece in the collection is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, featuring the iconic glam Snake motif. It is a symbol of transformation and revival intricately entwined into the design. From the sinuous form wrapping around the bezel to the strap resembling a serpent’s graceful coils, every detail exudes a luxurious aura of individuality.

The Signature Snake Collection dazzles with its vivid colours and unique designs. From vibrant orange and deep blue to classic black and rich green, each watch offers a spectrum of hues that reflect Roberto Cavalli’s signature boldness and refinement. The collection also includes sophisticated mother-of-pearl and striking rose gold accents, ensuring each timepiece stands out with its special charm.

Designed to be a timeless addition to any wardrobe, the Signature Snake Collection enriches your ensemble with an aura of elegance and refinement. Whether you’re dressing for a formal event or adding finesse to your everyday look, these watches shine as quintessential pieces of splendid artistry and lasting style.

Discover the entire Signature Snake Collection by Roberto Cavalli by Franck Muller, where each piece exemplifies your unique panache and gracefulness.

AU Small Finance Bank to launch 75 AU Study Centers in Karnataka

Benefitting 1,500 underprivileged children with quality education and extra-curricular activities with life skills training

Bangalore, September 10, 2024: AU Small Finance Bank, India’s largest small finance bank, has launched 75 study centers across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, benefiting over 1,500 underprivileged children aged 8-13 in South India. This initiative provides comprehensive education support through coaching classes and extracurricular activities, empowering young minds to reach their full potential.

study center

The initiative will establish 75 study centers across rural villages in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, each staffed by a dedicated teacher. These centers will provide two hours of after-school academic coaching on weekdays, offering extra support to students, and sports training on Saturdays to promote physical development and teamwork. Additionally, students will receive essential life skills education, covering health and hygiene, child rights and protection, and more, empowering them with comprehensive knowledge and skills for their future.

Speaking at the occasion, Sanjay Agarwal, Founder, MD & CEO, AU Small Finance Bank, said, “Education is the foundation of a thriving society, and today’s children are the architects of our nation’s future. At AU Small Finance Bank, we are dedicated to nurturing this future by focusing on both foundational education and skill development. Our commitment to skill education is rooted in empowering young minds, improving grassroots education, and equipping students with essential skills to thrive. We’re committed to enhancing academic performance, raising awareness of life skills and child rights, and promoting extracurricular activities like sports for underprivileged children in rural Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. Through these initiatives, our mission is to empower the future of these children.”

AU SFB supports 2,500 ambitious youth across India in their pursuit of success, through expert online coaching, preparing candidates for competitive entrance and recruitment examinations. Through AU Ignite skill training initiative, we have so far trained 21,962 and placed 17,037 candidates.

Devi Ahilya Cancer Pain & Palliative Care Centre set to be Inaugurated In Delhi

Devi Ahilya Cancer Pain & Palliative Care Centre in Delh - 2

New Delhi 10th September 2024: Devi Ahilya Cancer Pain & Palliative Care Centre in Delhi’s Rohini Sector-17 is set to be inaugurated on September 11, 2024, at 12:30 PM at B.R. Healthcare. The centre aims to revolutionize cancer care in India by introducing electro homeopathy as an alternative treatment option for cancer patients. The inauguration ceremony will be attended by Mr. Om Jain, President of the Madhya Pradesh Electro Homeopathy Council, as the chief guest, along with Mr. Anil Shastri, former Union Minister, and Mr. Sudhir Gupta, MP from Mandsaur, as special guests. Numerous medical experts, specialists, and dignitaries from across the country will attend this event.

Dr. Ajay Hardia, a famous cancer specialist and founder of the Devi Ahilya Cancer Pain & Palliative Care Centre, outlined the purpose behind the establishment of the centre, and said, “Our primary goal is to establish electro homeopathy as a recognized and effective treatment method in India. By making it the first choice for cancer patients, we aim to improve their quality of life significantly.”

The centre’s mission is to provide cancer patients with comprehensive and superior care. It introduces a modern approach to cancer treatment that emphasizes pain relief and holistic care through electro homeopathy. This non-invasive and natural medical system focuses on supporting the body’s healing process without relying on chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, reducing the burden on patients and improving their overall well-being.

During the inauguration, experts will discuss the key features and benefits of electro homeopathy, positioning it as a potential alternative for cancer patients. This natural, drug-free treatment method focuses on rejuvenating the body’s internal strength and offers a safe, non-invasive option for cancer care.

Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with electro homeopathy experts, learning about the effectiveness of this approach, especially for patients seeking alternatives to chemotherapy or surgery. The event will highlight how this treatment method opens new pathways for cancer care.

In addition, the inauguration will also mark the launch of the “Fight Against Cancer” campaign. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the benefits of electro homeopathy, providing information and resources to cancer patients, and promoting this alternative treatment to a wider audience. The Devi Ahilya Cancer Pain & Palliative Care Centre is expected to set a new milestone in cancer care, playing a vital role in improving both the physical and emotional well-being of patients.

Mother’s Recipe introduces new Crushed Mixed Pickle to spice up your meals

Mumbai, September 09, 2024 – Mother’s Recipe, India’s leading ethnic food brand, proudly announces the launch of its newest variant, Crushed Mixed Pickle. This delicious new offering, available in 300g packaging at an affordable price of Rs. 105, making it the perfect companion for your everyday dishes.

mothers achar

The Crushed Mixed Pickle is a delightful blend of small fruit pieces, infused with aromatic spices and the rich taste of mustard oil. Whether paired with parathas, rice, or simple chapatis, this pickle adds the perfect tangy and spicy kick, sure to make your taste buds dance with joy

“We have crafted the Crushed Mixed Pickle to appeal to everyone who loves the authentic taste of traditional Indian pickles but with a modern twist. It’s all about bringing the familiar warmth of home-cooked meals to your table, with a flavor that’s both nostalgic and exciting,” said Ms. Sanjana Desai, Executive Director, Mother’s Recipe.

The Crushed Mixed Pickle will initially be available in key cities including Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai and Nagpur catering to the evolving palate of urban consumers. The brand has meticulously crafted this variant to ensure the right balance of tang, spice, and texture, creating a harmonious blend that complements a wide range of cuisines.

For decades, Mother’s Recipe has been a trusted brand in homes all over India, offering a wide range of pickles, chutneys, spices and ready-to-cook products that bring authentic flavors to every kitchen. With this latest addition, the brand continues its legacy of innovation while staying rooted in its commitment to quality and authenticity.

Cook Smarter with Rice Bran Oil

In the journey toward healthier living, even the smallest kitchen choices can have a profound impact on our well-being. One such choice is the cooking oil we use, which can significantly influence our health. Among the many options available, rice bran oil stands out for those seeking both nutritional benefits and culinary versatility.

This outer layer is rich in essential nutrients, including oryzanol, an antioxidant present in concentrations of over 10,000 ppm. Oryzanol is known for its ability to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while maintaining good cholesterol (HDL). This makes rice bran oil a heart-healthy alternative to common cooking oils like vegetable or sunflower oil. Its balanced fatty acid profile, with an equal ratio of polyunsaturated (PUFA) and monounsaturated (MUFA) fats, supports cardiovascular health and helps manage cholesterol levels.

The versatility of rice bran oil is another significant advantage. With a high smoke point of approximately 232°C, it is suitable for a variety of cooking methods, including frying, sautéing, and baking. Unlike some oils that degrade and release harmful compounds when heated, rice bran oil remains stable, ensuring that your dishes are both nutritious and flavourful. Its neutral taste complements a wide range of ingredients, enhancing the natural flavours of your meals.

What Experts Say about Rice Bran Oil:

Speaking at the ICRBO 2023 Dr. Rohini Sharma, Ph. D. Food Science and Nutrition, Consultant Food Technologist, Consultant Nutritionist, and Life Coach at International Conference on Rice Bran oil (ICRBO), “Rice Bran Oil is very good for day to day cooking. It is a very healthy oil and more people should know the benefits of using the Rice Bran Oil. Rice Bran Oil has a balanced fatty profile with PUFA and MUFA in the ratio of 1:1, and very low saturated fatty acids. It is rich in nutraceuticals – Oryzanol, tocopherol, and tocotrienols which are natural Antioxidants. Oryzanol present in Rice Bran Oil reduces Bad Cholesterol (LDL) and maintains Good Cholesterol (HDL). We all should shift towards making a healthier choice in our kitchen by switching to Rice bran oil.”

Speaking at the ICRBO 2023 Dr. Sheryl Salis, Registered Dietitian (RD), Certified Diabetes Educator, Insulin Pump Specialist, and Founder -of Nurture Health Solutions “We recommend people to use Rice Bran Oil, as it is Made in India and ideally suited to our Indian palate. The National Institution of Nutrition (NIN), ICMR, WHO, and several heart organizations have regularly promoted the use of Rice Bran Oil. In clinical practice, we are witnessing a lot of young people suffering from diabetes and heart diseases. We are constantly copying Western countries and are not focusing on our products like Rice bran oil.”

To educate the masses about the health benefits, Freedom Rice Bran Oil is operating a new campaign titled ‘Cholesterol ki Safai ka Specialist.’ This campaign reinforces the message that ‘Rice Bran Oil Kare Andar Se Safai’, focuses on the oil’s role in maintaining heart health. By highlighting how rice bran oil helps clear built-up cholesterol in the body, the campaign underscores the importance of incorporating it into daily cooking. Emphasizing the oil’s high oryzanol content, along with its ability to manage cholesterol levels, the campaign aims to educate consumers on its health benefits.

Mrs. Saraswathi, a homemaker who recently switched to rice bran oil, shares, “Using rice bran oil has transformed the way I cook. It adds a lightness to dishes that my family loves, and I feel confident knowing it supports their overall health. The oil’s ability to create a crisp, light texture in fried foods allows me to prepare comforting meals without compromising on nutrition.”

Freedom Rice Bran Oil not only prioritizes health but also ensures quality through careful sourcing and production. The brand’s commitment to preserving the oil’s nutritional value and natural antioxidants ensures that consumers fully benefit from its health-promoting properties.

Mr. P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Senior Vice President – Sales & Marketing at Freedom Rice Bran Oil, said, “More than just a cooking essential, Freedom Rice Bran Oil has become a trusted ally for health-conscious consumers. With over 10,000 ppm of oryzanol, we are dedicated to providing a product that supports both taste and wellness. Our focus on quality and nutrition empowers consumers to make informed choices, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle.”

Incorporating rice bran oil into your cooking routine is an easy yet impactful step toward better health. Its balanced fatty acid profile, high smoke point, and neutral flavour make it an excellent choice for a wide range of dishes. By choosing Freedom Rice Bran Oil, you enhance the taste of your meals while embracing a healthier approach to cooking that benefits both you and your family.

IESA Inaugurates New Office in Bengaluru, Hosts Major Industry Events

Bengaluru, 9th September 2024: The India Electronics and Semiconductors Association (IESA) celebrated the inauguration of its new office in Bengaluru, with Karnataka’s Minister of IT & BT, Mr. Priyank Kharge, and Dr. Sunita Verma, Group Scientist from MeitY, presiding over the event. Senior industry leaders, members of the IESA Executive Board , CDAC officials and IESA Staff were also in attendance.

semi company

The inauguration commenced with a Puja and Havan ceremony, followed by two key events: an interactive roundtable with industry CxOs and an engaging discussion on the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme with over 40 startups.

Mr. Priyank Kharge emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government, industry, and academia to elevate Karnataka and India’s leadership in the electronics and semiconductor sector. He also highlighted the state’s focus on building a skilled workforce to serve global markets. Dr. Verma reiterated MeitY’s commitment to driving innovation through initiatives like the DLI scheme and R&D investments. Both along with Industry CxO’s underscoring the need for enhanced productivity, innovation, and manufacturing capabilities to position India as a global semiconductor hub.

IESA Leadership Remarks:

Dr. V Veerappan, Chairman, IESA, expressed excitement about the recent momentum in the ESDM sector, citing the approval of PLI schemes for members like Tata, Micron, Renesas, and Kaynes, along with state governments consent for Tower + Adani Group ( Maharashtra), Foxconn ( Karnataka) , RRP Electronics ( Maharashtra) , ASIP ( Telangana) RIR Power ( Odisha), Suchi Semicon ( Gujarat), and others. He lauded these developments in multiple states as evidence of IESA’s continued efforts, Industry Entrepreneurship with Government support in advancing India’s position as a global leader in electronics and semiconductors.
Ashok Chandak, President, IESA, hailed the day as a significant milestone for IESA’s two-decade journey, emphasizing the need for greater value addition in the electronics and semiconductor sectors to create economic growth, innovation, and employment opportunities. He highlighted the importance of the day’s CxO roundtable and startup discussions with MeitY and C-DAC as a critical step toward fast-tracking design-led manufacturing in India towards potential 500 Bn$ Electronics by 2030.
Startup Session and DLI Scheme Discussions: Following the inauguration, IESA, in collaboration with MeitY and C-DAC, hosted a three-hour interactive session with 40+ startups to explore the potential of the DLI scheme. The event aimed to drive higher industry participation in creating value-added electronics products in India. The dialogue featured prominent figures like Dr. Sunita Verma ( MeitY ), Nishit Gupta (MeitY/ ISM), and C-DAC’s Executive Directors Vivek Khaneja and Dr. S D. Sudarshan and Start Up sector experts – Mr. Ruchir Dixit, IESA Vice Chairman, Mr. Ashok Mishra, IESA EC member, Mr. Sridhar , CEO SFAL.

Startup founders discussed key challenges, including access to design infrastructure, EDA tools, post-Si validation, MPW fab services, and emulation prototyping. The discussion also touched on the creation of a domestic value-chain aggregator for fabrication services, establishing a marketplace for leveraging indigenous IP solutions, and providing preferential market access to Indian designs. The session offered valuable mentorship, insights into the DLI scheme, and direct interaction with MeitY and C-DAC decision-makers. An on-the-spot survey revealed that nine startups were keen to apply for the DLI scheme, underscoring the scheme’s potential to accelerate innovation in India.

Looking Ahead: By hosting such impactful events, IESA continues to lead the charge in fostering innovation, empowering startups, and solidifying India’s position as a global leader in electronics manufacturing and technology development.

Overall, the inauguration day marked a significant step forward in appreciating India’s progress in the ESDM sector and advancing the DLI scheme.

A Hair-Raising Tale: Doctors Remove Massive Hairball from Child’s Stomach, Saving Life

Bengaluru, 9th September 2024- In a case described as “one in a million,” a team of doctors at Aster Whitefield Hospital successfully treated an 8-year-old girl suffering from trichobezoar, a condition caused by trichophagia, the compulsive eating of hair also known as Rapunzel Syndrome.

It started as an innocent habit. For two years, Aditi (name changed), the young girl from Bengaluru experienced intermittent bouts of poor appetite and frequent vomiting. Her parents, puzzled by her persistent symptoms, sought help from numerous doctors, but each diagnosis and treatment failed to bring relief. Little did they know, the answer lay within their daughter’s unique and rare behavior—an answer that would lead to a rare medical condition.

The family, living in a close-knit, affluent joint household, became increasingly worried as their daughter’s condition deteriorated. Initial evaluations by paediatricians, general physicians, and ENT specialists suggested gastritis and prescribed multivitamins. It wasn’t until a month ago that the puzzle began to unravel when the girl was admitted to the Paediatric Emergency at Aster Women and Children Hospital, Whitefield, Bengaluru.

After being transferred to Aster Whitefield Hospital for further examination it was revealed that she had a trichobezoar which is basically hair mass stuck inside the gastrointestinal tract. This exceptional condition resulted from severe symptoms which are linked to trichophagia- compulsive eating of hair. The medical team led by Dr. Manjiri Somashekhar, the Lead & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Surgery, Dr. Sethu Mohan K, Senior Specialist – Pediatric surgery and Dr. Aravind A, Consultant – Paediatrics and paediatrics Intensive Care addressed this complex case.

Dr. Manjiri Somashekhar, Lead & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Surgery, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Whitefield explains, “Trichobezoar is an extremely rare condition and especially very rare in a child as young as Aditi. It is often associated with trichophagia, a psychological disorder where individuals eat hair. While commonly seen in adolescent girls, finding this in a much younger child is extraordinary and highlights the uniqueness of this case.”

Aditi underwent an open surgery to remove the hairball as it was too large and sticky to be removed endoscopically. The surgical team decided on this approach to prevent spillage into the peritoneal cavity, a choice that proved effective. The surgery lasted two and a half hours, and Aditi was hospitalized for a week for postoperative care.

“If left undiagnosed, this condition could have led to severe malnutrition, anaemia, and significant bleeding from the stomach,” Dr. Sethu Mohan K, Senior Specialist – Pediatric surgery, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Whitefield emphasized. “The hairball could have embedded into the stomach lining, causing severe bleeding during removal and potentially leading to life-threatening complications such as perforation.”

Following the surgery, Aditi was placed on a high-protein diet and partial parenteral nutrition to address her malnutrition. She also received counselling to manage her trichophagia. A child psychologist is overseeing her mental health, with her family closely involved in the treatment plan.

“The surgery was intricate and demanding,” recalled Dr. Aravind A, Consultant – Paediatrics and Paediatrics Intensive Care, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Whitefield. “But it was the only way to ensure the best outcome for our young patient.”

The child’s parents were initially shocked by the diagnosis. Extensive counselling was required to help them understand the condition and the critical nature of the treatment. Their cooperation was instrumental in early identification of symptoms and seeking appropriate medical care. The family’s vigilance and support continue to play a vital role in the child’s recovery.

The long-term prognosis for the child is positive, provided she continues to receive psychological support and regular monitoring. Preventive measures include educating parents about the signs of trichophagia, such as sparse hair in the frontal scalp area, and the importance of psychological assessment in conjunction with surgical treatment.

HCAH and New Zealand’s Aroa Biosurgery Launch ‘Zero-Bedsore’ Program to Revolutionize Bed Sore Care in India

HCAH, a leading provider of comprehensive out-of-hospital healthcare solutions in India, has taken a significant step towards promoting rapid patient recovery with the introduction of a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing healing processes. Recognizing the detrimental impact of bedsores on recovery timelines, HCAH has partnered with Aroa Biosurgery New Zealand to further strengthen its commitment to patient care excellence.

health care2

Aroa Biosurgery is a renowned soft-tissue regeneration company that develops, manufactures, and distributes medical and surgical products to improve healing in complex wounds and soft tissue reconstruction. Aroa Biosurgery is introducing new product lines specifically designed to address complex vascular and diabetic wounds, offering advanced solutions that enhance healing and significantly improve patient recovery.

As part of this partnership, HCAH has launched the “WOW (Warriors of Woundcare) Nurses” program aimed at preventing and effectively treating bedsores.

“In recognizing the ongoing efforts of our healthcare professionals, we continue to highlight the exceptional contributions of our nurses,” remarks Vivek Srivastava, Founder and CEO of HCAH. “Nurses are at the heart of patient care, and the WOW Nurses will undoubtedly become champions of wound care, ensuring a superior patient experience and expediting the healing process.”

Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are a common challenge for patients confined to beds or with limited mobility. These painful wounds not only hinder recovery but also lead to significant discomfort. Research reveals that bedsores prolong hospital stays and elevate the risk of severe infections.

“Our aim is zero bed sores, and the introduction of ‘WOW Nurses’ is a key step towards this goal,” says Dr. Gaurav Thukral, Co-Founder and COO of HCAH. “This initiative enhances patient recovery, reduces complications, and improves comfort. Our recent study, published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), showed that 64% of pressure ulcer cases were grade 2, with 62% of patients seeing significant improvement. These findings reinforce the importance of timely intervention, tailored care, and ongoing education in effectively managing pressure ulcers.”

The WOW Nurses, certified in advanced wound care management, will focus on proactively preventing and treating bedsores using the latest techniques and best practices to ensure optimal patient recovery.

By investing in specialized international training for its nursing staff, HCAH is taking a critical step to accelerate patient recovery. This comprehensive curriculum focuses on the latest wound care techniques, a crucial element in preventing bed sores. Bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers, can significantly slow the recovery process and increase complications. Equipping nurses with the most up-to-date knowledge ensures patients receive the highest quality care, leading to faster recovery times and improved outcomes.

“We’re proud to support HCAH Rehab & Recovery Centre’s commitment to enhancing post-surgery care, especially for patients with bedsores,” says Dr. Patrick Hunt, Director of Business Development at Aroa Biosurgery. “As exclusive partners in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, we recognize the importance of specialized training. We’re pleased to support the certification program and provide expert-led sessions from New Zealand on using Endoform and Myriad. Our technology aims to reduce wound care time, cost, and effort, allowing nursing resources to be utilized more effectively.”

HCAH remains committed to advancing wound care through ongoing research, education, and training. The ‘WOW Nurses’ initiative marks a significant leap forward, redefining care standards and setting new benchmarks for patient-centered healthcare.

For those seeking post-hospitalization rehabilitation care, HCAH’s services are worth considering. The WOW Nurses ensure patients receive optimal wound care, facilitating a faster and more comfortable recovery journey.

IIT Jodhpur Launches BSc/BS in Applied AI & Data Science for Future Talent

India, 09 September 2024- The Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur (IIT Jodhpur) has introduced a pioneering BSc./BS. in Applied AI & Data Science, in partnership with Futurense Uni. This cutting-edge program addresses the increasing need for professionals in the fast-evolving fields of AI and data science.

The degree is designed for both students and working professionals as it features a unique next-gen model. With an online format and a campus immersion component, it provides flexibility. Every year, students will have the chance to tour the IIT Jodhpur campus, which will enhance their education by providing them with firsthand knowledge of its prestigious academic setting. Students can obtain a Certification in the first year, a Diploma in the second, a BSc degree in the third, and a BS degree at the end of the fourth year thanks to the program’s stackable structure.

Prof. Avinash Kumar Agarwal, Director of IIT Jodhpur, emphasised on the need for a next-gen education model that addresses the global challenges. “Our present age requires creative solutions to pressing problems of human rights, sustainable development and global well-being. This means thinking out of the box and moving away from traditional models of school education, which reward rote learning and kill the innate creativity of children. Therefore, our vision is to equip learners enrolled for the BSc./BS. in Applied AI and Data Science program with the necessary modern skills and competencies to participate in a rapidly transforming global knowledge ecosystem that is being shaped drastically by technologies such as artificial intelligence,” says Prof. Agarwal.

Raghav Gupta, Founder and CEO of Futurense, highlighting the significant skill gap between industry and academia, says, “The pace of AI-driven transformation is reshaping industries, with estimates suggesting that 80% of jobs will experience significant changes due to AI. To stay ahead, India must innovate at the academic level. Our partnership with IIT is very pivotal for this intervention. The BSc./BS. Program by IIT Jodhpur combines their renowned academic rigour with our deep industry insights. This partnership ensures that students gain the expertise needed to excel in an AI-driven world.”

The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in AI, incorporating over 100 advanced AI tools and hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies such as Devin AI, Claude, etc.

“The current gap between industry needs and academics is about 4-5 years, with academia lagging behind industry developments. Because of IIT Jodhpur’s strong academic framework combined with our industry connect, this degree brings an extensive AI curriculum for the techies, covering everything from foundational concepts to practical use cases and tools. A key component of this approach is our Futurense Leadership Council, which comprises CXOs from Fortune 500 companies, AI and Analytics leaders, and other industry experts, who are also instrumental in designing the curriculum and mentoring students,” adds Raghav.

Students will engage in a mix of self-paced video lectures, quizzes, and assignments, complemented by live weekend lectures from faculty and industry leaders. Assessments and projects are integral to enhancing practical skills and knowledge.