Archives September 2024

Hyderabad, September 07, 2024: Minister of Women and Child Welfare, Government of Telangana Smt Sethakka and film star and popular comedian Mr Ali launched a T-shirt and Finishers’ Medal for The World’s Largest Cancer Awareness Run “Quambiant Global Grace Cancer Run-2024” in a function held at Hotel Daspall in Jubilee Hills on Friday evening.

Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, the president of the Grace Cancer Foundation; Dr. Pavan Gorukanti, Director, of Yashoda Hospitals Group, Ramesh Kaza, Secretary General of the SCSC; Prashant Nandella, President of HYSEA (Hyderabad Software Enterprises Association); Krupakar Reddy, Race Director; Dr Prameela Rani Sunkavalli; Yogendranath from Quambiant Developers, Ajay Mishra, a retired IAS Officer, Mr Sujatha Rao, Founder Trustee and former senior police officer graced the launch.

The run is to be held on 6th October at Gachibowli, with over 1 lakh participants from across 130 countries through Physical and Virtual Modes. The run is planned to raise funds to deploy free cancer screening for poor people.

Addressing immediately after the launch, Smt Seethakaa said Doctors can treat a disease, but comedians like Mr. Ali with his comedy can treat all sorts of diseases. Dr Chinna Babu, referring to the Founder and President of Grace Cancer Foundation the Minister said, that though his name sounds ‘small'(Chinna in Telugu), he is doing many ‘big’ and ‘great’ things.

Very few people in the past used to get cancer. Now anybody and everybody and everywhere can get Cancer, she added. Awareness and screening is the only way forward. It must begin in remote places that have no clue why cancer comes. Prevention is better than cure. We must declare war against cancer. We must throw cancer away from society and form our lives. The medical fraternity must invest time, talent and treasure in deeper research to know the exact causes of cancer, she said.

The Comedian Mr. Ali said Dr. Chinnababu is a doctor with a service bent of mind, which is a rare combination to be found nowadays. We pray to God with folded hands, and we also pray to doctors with the same folded hands. Doctors are no less than gods. Without exception, everybody has to seek the services of doctors in their respective lives. Dr Chinna Babu is a great and big personality quite in contrast to his name. I have acted in 1250 films in six languages for forty-five years making people laugh, and smile. Laughter is the best medicine, he added.

Dr. Pavan Gorukanti urged the media to amplify the message of screening for early cancer detection. Besides screening early, one needs to reduce calorie intake or fasting, increase physical activity and reduce obesity. Daily physical activity will keep you fit and reduce the chances of getting 90% of lifestyle diseases.

The 7th edition of the run with the theme “Run for Grace Screen for Life” will have a participation of over 1 lakh people from 130 plus countries, disclosed Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Senior Consultant Robotic Surgical Oncologist and the Founder of GRACE (Global Research and Cancer Education) Cancer Foundation.

The Run will be held in three different categories—2K, 5K& 10K, over 20,000 participants are expected to participate in the event to be held in Gachibowli, informed Krupakar Reddy, the Race Director.

The run will be organised by GRACE Cancer Foundation, a Hyderabad-based non-profit organisation founded to alleviate the burden of cancer through education, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation, and cutting-edge research. Every participant not only gets to run their favourite distance, but they also help a good cause by donating a portion of their registration fee to cancer screening and awareness” Dr Chinababu added

The objectives for the Run according to Dr. Chinababu are to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives by creating awareness about Cancer, to promote physical activity as a means to prevent and combat cancer in society and to help people lead active lifestyles and also to raise funds for screening the underprivileged right at their doorstep, for free.

The Grace Cancer Foundation works towards helping marginalized communities fight cancer. Most tumours are treatable if they are detected at an early stage and offered the right treatment. However, most people living in remote and slum areas across the globe are ignorant of this fact, and unfortunately, they are succumbing to it. So, it has been our deepest desire to reach out to the unreached and bring awareness about this disease.

It is baffling that 9.5 million people are losing to cancer every year across the world. So, to prevent more people from falling prey to it, the foundation has been conducting free screening camps, cancer awareness talks, and cancer runs in 10 countries, covering 4 continents.

Quambiant Developers, Rayn, AMCHAM India, HYSEA and SCSC, Natco, WindStream, LIC, Movers.com, CIRO, Nirmaam & CII, BMS and Yashoda Hospitals and others are supporting the event.

For more information, please visit www.gracecancerfoundation.org

Raghukul Trust, a Jaipur based NGO Promoting Living Traditions Is organizing an exhibition of Pichwais Paintings – artworks from heritage artists dedicated to one of the most ancient art forms of Rajasthan which in today’s world of modern and abstract art is struggling to stay in the market.

“Darshanam by Raghukul Trust” brings to fore the Pichhwai Artworks of over 30 artists from heritage communities. “The Trust aims to promote the languishing art and specially the artists who are not in the mainstream. It is very critical to keep this artwork alive”, says Sadhna Garg, Chairperson, Raghukul Trust. The exhibition is powered by Darshanam, a conglomerate of artists formed by Virendra Bansal, one of the surviving old artist in Pichhwai Art who is credited for bringing Pichhwai art from Nathdwara to Jaipur and introducing Govind Dev Ji in Pichhwais.

Supported by Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, a display of 78 artworks from artists who are carrying on this tradition from father to son for generations will be showcased from 7 to 11th September at the venue partner The Bikaner House, New Delhi. Paintings by Virendra Bansal will also be part of the exhibition.

Simultaneously with the exhibition, a FREE takeaway Pichhwai Art workshop will be conducted. Students from various schools, guests and Walk ins will be allowed to paint and take their artwork for free. The objective is to catch them young to learn this art. All the paints used in the workshop are made with natural stones as was done originally in the past.

Darshanam by Raghukul Trust

September 7th to 11th, 2024, Bikaner House, Pandara Road, new Delhi – 110003

10 am to 7 pm

GURUGRAM, 6th September 2024: Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced it has successfully implemented the integration of New Distribution Capability (NDC), becoming the first Indian airline to go live with latest technology in airline distribution.

Air India has adopted the latest 21.3 schema of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), transforming the way its products are retailed to travel agents, travel corporations, leisure and business travellers, and other travel resellers. The adoption of NDC allows for more personalised and efficient interactions between Air India and its travel partners, enhancing the overall booking and travel experience.

NDC is a travel industry-supported program launched by IATA for the development and market adoption of a new, XML-based data transmission standard. NDC enhances the way airline products are retailed in various channels. For Air India’s travel partners, this means access to a wider variety of offers and services, such as tailored flight packages and ancillary products, available in real-time. Customers can expect a more streamlined booking process with greater transparency and access to the best deals across all sales channels.

“Implementing NDC is a significant milestone for Air India as we continue to innovate and enhance our distribution strategy. Our goal is to provide a seamless and efficient booking experience for our travel partners and customers,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India.

NDC enhances the capability of communications between Air India and travel agents, and enables Air India to present tailored offers, ancillary products and services, and pricing options in real time to travel sellers worldwide.

Travel agents around the world can connect directly to Air India’s NDC and get access to a richer and more diverse set of content, including NDC exclusive offers, ancillary services, and fare families, which were previously not available through traditional distribution channels. This will enhance the overall booking and travel experience for their clients.

Air India’s customers will benefit from a more seamless, transparent booking process – both online and offline. This ensures that customers also get the best possible deals and options available.

New Delhi. September 06, 2024: In another significant step towards revolutionizing waste management in India, the Rubber, Chemical, and Petrochemical Skill Development Council (RCPSDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Paripatram. The partnership focuses on enhancing skills and formalizing labor within India’s rapidly growing waste sector, a sector crucial for both environmental sustainability and economic growth.

As India becomes one of the largest producers of electronic waste globally, Paripatram aims to lead in directly addressing this problem head-on. This partnership will work to integrate informal workers into the formal economy, enhancing their livelihoods, while encouraging waste handling practices across the country. The initiative aligns with key national missions like Skill India, Clean India, and Made in India, demonstrating Paripatram’s dedication to promoting sustainable development and creating a skilled, certified workforce in the waste management sector.

“This collaboration is in line with national missions like Skill India and Clean India,” stated Saif Mohammad, CEO of RCPSDC. “We are eager to partner with Paripatram to develop a strong workforce in the waste management sector, supporting India’s Vision 2047 through the creation of sustainable jobs and promoting inclusive economic growth.”

“Formalizing and training individuals in the informal sector is crucial for successful waste management in India”, said Anwar Shirpurwala, Managing Director of Paripatram. “By partnering with RCPSDC, our goal is to provide informal workers with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle e-waste responsibly and effectively, while also supporting the country’s social, economic, and environmental development.”

India’s e-waste sector is expanding at an impressive CAGR of over 15%, representing a significant chance to generate economic impact while addressing a mounting environmental challenge. Paripatram will implement skill development programs across India’s 100 smart cities, with a focus on areas where e-waste generation is particularly high. Paripatram aims to enhance efficiency and safety in e-waste management through upskilling the local workers while promoting sustainable employment and social inclusion.

This partnership overhauls to redefine the waste management landscape in India, establishing a precedent for responsible, skill-driven solutions that prioritize the well-being of both people and the planet.

Beauty Pageants are beyond physical appearance, they are much more than beauty: Apeksha Ashok Shetty

Mangalore, September 06, 2024 — Apeksha Ashok Shetty from the culturally rich city of Mangalore is Femina Miss India Karnataka 2024.

She emerged as state winner competing with above 200 plus contestants and the pageant’s rigorous nationwide selection process, which spanned five months

Thirty contestants, each representing one of the 29 states will compete in the final event. Apeksha Ashok Shetty is currently preparing for this ultimate event scheduled for later in the year.

Apeksha Shetty embodies the elegance and cultural richness of Karnataka and is set to dazzle on the national stage. Apeksha’s connection to her heritage runs deep. “Mangalore will always be special to me. My parents were born here, and every single visit in the past four years has brought me closer to my father, who was my greatest inspiration. Winning Karnataka means so much more because this is where my best friend and role model was born,” says Apeksha.

Growing up, Apeksha faced her share of struggles. She was often bullied and found it hard to connect with others. “I had a tough time fitting in and making friends in school. It was challenging, but my mother was always there for me, reminding me that being different was something to be proud of. Her support taught me the power of resilience and empathy, and these experiences have profoundly shaped who I am today,” Apeksha reflects.

The most profound challenge Apeksha faced was the loss of her father. But through this pain, I found new strength and resolve to honour his memory and pursue my dreams,” Apeksha shares.

Balancing a thriving corporate career with her passions, she works as a freelance model and indulges in her love for dancing, singing, and acting. A Bharatnatyam dancer since the age of 8, Apeksha had the honour of representing India internationally at just 12 years old through a dance group.

Winning the title of Femina Miss India Karnataka 2024 is not just a milestone for her—it’s the culmination of a lifelong dream. “Securing this state title has been a transformative journey for me. It’s not just about the crown; it’s a reconnection with my true self and my dreams. Balancing rigorous training with a demanding career was challenging, but every obstacle turned into an opportunity for growth. This title is a celebration of that resilience,” Apeksha shares.

This year’s pageant holds special significance as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of Femina Miss India. “Being part of this milestone edition of India’s most esteemed pageant makes this title even more precious. It’s not just about wearing a crown; I’m here to share my story and make a difference,” she adds.

Apeksha emphasizes that beauty pageants transcend mere physical appearance. “Beauty pageants are about being true to oneself, taking pride in who you are. It’s about beauty with brains, encompassing personality, intelligence, and communication skills,” she explains.

Mental health is a cause close to Apeksha’s heart, deeply influenced by her own experience with depression following her father’s passing. “My battle with depression after losing my father made me acutely aware of the importance of mental health. It impacts how we act, feels, and think, and addressing it or taking therapy is the only way out,” she asserts.

As Apeksha prepares to step into the national spotlight, her focus remains on using her platform to inspire and make a difference. “I am excited to use this opportunity to share my story and encourage others to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges they face. One of the recent quotes I read that inspired me is, ‘Maybe you have been assigned this mountain to show others it can be moved,’” she concludes.

September 6th, 2024 – GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co. Ltd, a leading manufacturer of motherboards, graphics cards, and hardware solutions, announced today the latest BIOS release to include TDP to 105W option for AMD Ryzen™ 7 9700X and Ryzen™ 5 9600X processors, which can boost CPU performance up to 13%.

The September latest BIOS version AGESA 1.2.0.1a provides a new option enabling users to raise the CPU TDP from 65W to 105W with just one click for Ryzen™ 9600X and 9700X on GIGABYTE 600 series motherboards. This new BIOS has been verified to show an approximately 13% multi-core performance boost compared to default TDP 65W by Cinebench R23 test results.

Users can download the latest BIOS from GIGABYTE website, and update easily using GIGABYTE‘s ＠BIOS, Q-Flash, or Q-Flash Plus technology. Please refer to the following table for the applicable models of September latest BIOS version AGESA 1.2.0.1a.

Andrew Johnston, Co-founder and CEO of Let Share led the latest investment round, which included various sports enthusiasts and investors from India and Sweden.

06th September 2024: Spolto, an Indo-Swedish SportsTech startup, has successfully closed its latest funding round, bringing its total raised capital to an impressive $1 million (INR 9 crore). The startup, founded in 2021 by Safa Soltani, with Divesh Nathani as Partner & COO, is on a mission to revolutionize sports access across urban India.

The recent round saw an investment of USD 160K (INR 1.35 crore), led by Andrew Johnston, Co-founder & CEO of Let Share, a Sweden-based venture. Johnston, a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for sports, recognized the immense potential in Spolto’s vision to transform India’s sports landscape.“India represents a massive opportunity in the world of sports and technology. The country’s vibrant sports culture and technological advancements present an unprecedented landscape for growth and innovation. Spolto is at the forefront of this transformation, and I am excited to support their vision and journey.” said Johnston.

This funding round also attracted investments from sports enthusiasts and entrepreneurs from both India and Sweden, highlighting the growing international interest in India’s evolving sports ecosystem.

Since its inception, Spolto has established partnerships with over 1,200 coaches and academies across 12 sports in Maharashtra, making it one of India’s largest sports hubs. By offering access to a wide array of sports, from tennis and swimming to badminton and gymnastics, Spolto is working to diversify sports participation beyond the traditional focus on cricket and football to new-age game like pickleball. With this fresh infusion of capital, Spolto plans to scale its services, aiming to reach even more urban communities. The startup’s goal is to foster grassroots sports development and recreational skill-building, making sports an integral part of everyday life for urban Indians.

“At Spolto, we’re committed to expanding access to sports in urban India, helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds discover the joy and benefits of sports. This funding will enable us to grow our platform and empower more people to embrace an active lifestyle,” said Safa Soltani, Founder & CEO of Spolto and Divesh Nathani, COO of Spolto.

The company is also set to enhance its digital presence, addressing the needs of the new-age Indian consumer. With a focus on accessibility and convenience, Spolto aims to become the go-to platform for sports skill development in India’s urban centers.

Bengaluru, 06th September 2024: Centuary Mattresses, India’s Sleep Specialist, with a legacy spanning over 35 years, proudly announces the grand opening of its Centuary Mattresses Experience Store Koramangala, Bengaluru. Mr. Uttam Malani, Director of Centuary Fibre Plates Pvt. Ltd along with a few esteemed guests inaugurated the new store.

This new store, located at Home Hues 617, 80 feet road, promises to provide customers with an enhanced shopping experience, showcasing Centuary Mattresses’ extensive range of high-quality products designed to improve sleep and well-being. This new exclusive retail destination represents a significant milestone in Centuary Mattress’s mission to transform the way consumers experience and select their sleep solutions. The Centuary Experience Store will offer a unique opportunity for customers to explore and test a variety of mattresses, experience the latest in sleep technology, and receive personalized assistance.

“We are excited to bring our innovative sleep solutions to the vibrant community of Bangalore,” said Mr. Uttam Malani. “Our new store at Koramangala is meticulously designed as a one-of-a-kind experience centre for sleep enthusiasts and comfort seekers to redefine how customers experience and choose their sleep solutions. Our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and unparalleled comfort has been the cornerstone of our brand. With the launch of this store, we’re not just providing products; we’re crafting an immersive journey aimed at elevating the lives of our cherished customers This new space promises to revolutionize the mattress shopping experience, offering a distinctive fusion of state-of-the-art technology, expert guidance will provide a comprehensive experience, allowing customers to find the perfect mattress tailored to their individual needs” added Mr. Uttam Malani.

A diverse range of needs and budgets will be catered at the new experience store which offers an extensive selection of mattresses and pillows. Their product range incorporates sophisticated features, including innovative CU Sense technology that maintains a cool and comfortable body temperature. The new store will have an extensive array of sleep accessories, from neck pillows tailored for customers to a variety of pillows precisely crafted to complement their mattresses. Centuary mattresses come with Centuary Protect promise and hold CertiPUR-US certification, assuring customers of the absence of harmful chemicals in the manufacturing process. The brand’s premium mattresses incorporate high-density memory foam and advanced coil systems, offering the epitome of luxury and support.

Centuary Mattress boasts a strong presence among multi-brand dealers from approximately 150 outlets and 110 exclusive brand stores in Karnataka and 4500+ outlets and 450+ exclusive brand stores across India. The brand envisions increasing its presence to at least 100 exclusive experience stores by 2025.

Abhishek Goel, founder & CEO to assume new role as Chief Mentor

Mumbai, September 6, 2024: Cactus Communications (CACTUS), a leading science communication and technology company, has announced the appointment of Akhilesh Ayer as its new Chief Executive Officer. Abhishek Goel, founder and outgoing CEO will continue to serve as a board member and transition into the role of Chief Mentor.

Established in 2002, CACTUS has flourished under Abhishek Goel’s leadership, partnering with researchers, institutions, and publishers worldwide to accelerate research publishing and impact. This leadership change aligns with CACTUS’s strategic vision for its next phase of growth and innovation as the company enters its third decade.

Akhilesh comes with over 25 years of leadership experience in running global businesses, managing clients and running transformation programs across a range of industry verticals, products and services. His previous experience include leadership stints at WNS, GE and Crisil amongst others.

Abhishek Goel expressed his enthusiasm for the company’s future under Ayer’s leadership, “I am delighted to welcome Akhilesh Ayer as the new CEO of Cactus Communications. CACTUS has significant untapped potential in multiple areas and, we believe this is an opportune time to bring on a new CEO to help realize this potential. Akhilesh is a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in leading global teams through digital transformation, driving both top and bottom-line growth. His vision for leveraging technology aligns well with our goals for innovation and expansion. Akhilesh’s expertise will be pivotal in shaping our next chapter.”

Akhilesh Ayer joins CACTUS from WNS Global Services, where he served as Executive Vice President & Head of Data, Analytics, AI & Research (Triange) business unit. At WNS, he successfully transformed the business unit by adopting a differentiated go-to-market strategy, re-imagining the product-service mix, building a best-in-class operational ecosystem and bringing in industry-leading people practices that helped achieve stellar results. He also played a key role in the business unit’s M&A strategy, leading successful acquisitions and integrations. Akhilesh Ayer commented on his appointment, “I am excited to join CACTUS and for the opportunity to lead the company. I believe that the industry we operate in is on the brink of a transformative disruption. I am energized by the immense potential to drive growth and enhance the CACTUS experience for its customers while remaining true to its mission and values.”

Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 6th September 2024: The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee), an institution with a rich legacy of 177 years, celebrated Teachers’ Day with grandeur at the OP Jain Auditorium, Department of Civil Engineering. The event paid homage to the late Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a visionary educator and the second President of India. The celebration was graced by the presence of Prof. K.K. Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, Prof. U.P. Singh, Deputy Director, Prof. Ashwani Kumar Sharma, Dean of Faculty Affairs, along with other esteemed Deans, Associate Deans, and Heads of Departments.

On this special occasion, IIT Roorkee recognized and honored faculty members who have demonstrated outstanding dedication and excellence in teaching and research. These awards underscore the institute’s commitment to fostering academic brilliance and innovation, which have been the hallmarks of IIT Roorkee throughout its long and illustrious history.

Prof. Ashwani Kumar Sharma, Dean of Faculty Affairs, IIT Roorkee, also shared his thoughts on the occasion, saying, “Our teachers are the backbone of this institution. Their dedication and passion are what make IIT Roorkee a leader in education and research. I congratulate all the award winners for their exceptional work and their invaluable contributions to the lives of our students and the broader society.”

The following faculty members were honored with the Excellence in Teaching and Research Awards for 2024:

Undergraduate (UG) Category:

· Prof. Shiv Kumar Gupta, Department of Mathematics (more than 80 students)

· Prof. Nikhil Kumar Singh, Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering (31-80 students)

· Prof. Sudheer Kumar Tiwari, Department of Earth Sciences (Young Faculty, 31 or more students)

Postgraduate (PG) Category:

· Prof. Gopinath Packirisamy, Department of Biosciences & Bioengineering (10 or more students)

· Prof. Sourabh Arora, Department of Management Studies (Young Faculty, 10 or more students)

Lifetime Teaching Achievement Award:

· Prof. Pradeep Kumar, Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering

In addition, Prof. Manil T. Mohan, Department of Mathematics, was honored with the Prof. Bal Krishna Outstanding Teacher Award (2024), while Prof. Yogesh Kumar Sharma, Department of Physics, received the Ramkumar Prize for Outstanding Teaching & Research (2024).

IIT Roorkee also recognized the efforts of those faculty members who featured in the top five in various UG and PG categories but did not receive awards. As a token of appreciation for their exemplary work, these faculty members will be given appreciation letters acknowledging their significant contributions to the institute’s academic environment.

Prof. U.P. Singh, Deputy Director, IIT Roorkee, remarked, “Our faculty’s dedication drives IIT Roorkee’s success. I congratulate the awardees for their exceptional contributions to education and research, helping maintain our institution’s excellence.”

IIT Roorkee’s journey of 177 years is marked by a legacy of producing some of the most prominent alumni who have made significant contributions to society, industry, and academia. From pioneers in engineering to leaders in innovation, IIT Roorkee’s alumni have been instrumental in shaping the future of technology and education in India and across the globe. The institute’s commitment to excellence in education is reflected in its continuous efforts to nurture talent and foster an environment of innovation and research.

Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, expressed his admiration for the awardees, stating, “IIT Roorkee has always been a beacon of knowledge, nurturing minds that go on to make significant contributions to society. Today, we honor those educators who not only impart knowledge but also inspire, encourage, and ignite curiosity in their students. Their relentless pursuit of excellence is what drives our institution forward, maintaining its stature as a premier institute of higher learning.”

The Excellence in Teaching Award, which includes a Citation, a memento, and a cash prize of ₹1.0 lakh, was presented to the deserving faculty members as a token of appreciation for their hard work and commitment to excellence.

As IIT Roorkee continues its journey of academic excellence, it remains steadfast in its mission to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of society. The institute’s dedication to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and societal impact will continue to inspire future generations of educators and students alike.