All posts by K S Krishna

11 February 2025:

VST Tillers Tractors Limited (VST), India’s leading farm equipment manufacturer, today announced their financial results for the quarter and nine months ended Dec 31, 2024.

For the third Quarter, VST achieved a turnover of Rs 219.10 Cr, up of 29% from Rs 169.96 Cr in the Third quarter of last year. The operational EBITDA is 19.55 Cr, up of 104% from 9.54 Cr in the Third quarter of last year. The profit before taxes is Rs 3.84 Cr, down by 81% against Rs 20.33 Cr in the same period of the previous year in the Third quarter. The drop in profit before tax in Q3 is due to mark-to-market losses on investments of Rs 11.04 crores as against Rs 15.42 Cr profit in Q3 of last year.

On a year-to-date basis, the turnover is Rs 693.12 Cr, compared to Rs 694.61Cr for same period of last year. The PBT (profit before taxes) is Rs 89.32 Cr as compared to Rs 112.58 Cr of last year. PAT (Net profit) stood at Rs 69.49 Cr as against Rs 86.39 Cr last year.

10th Feb, 2025 , Bareilly : Invertis University, an NAAC-accredited institution, is now offering Microsoft and Adobe certification exams on campus, giving students the opportunity to earn globally recognized credentials that will enhance their career prospects. No need to travel to distant centers—students can now conveniently take these industry-leading certification exams right on campus.

As part of its commitment to digital learning, Invertis has also partnered with LinkedIn Learning, providing students with free access to over 16,000 courses. With personalized recommendations, students can gain valuable skills that will help them stand out to future employers. Plus, they can showcase these newly acquired skills on their LinkedIn profiles, further boosting their employability.

With more than 6,000 successful placements and international academic partnerships with esteemed institutions like Livingstone College (USA) and the University of South Carolina Upstate (USA), Invertis is dedicated to providing students with global exposure and career opportunities. Students can also apply for paid internships in countries like Dubai, Mauritius, France, Sweden, and more.

At Invertis University, the focus is on holistic development by blending academics, industry expertise, global exposure, and skill-building initiatives to ensure that students are well-prepared for success in today’s competitive job market. Admissions for the 2025 session are now open—join Invertis University and take the first step toward a bright future!

04, February 2025,Chennai: The journey from being a deeply enthusiastic Math learner to an extraordinary Math genius is just a camp away. This summer, Epsilon India Camp returns with an intense, fun and immersive summer programme for students aged 9 to 13.

Organised by the Raising A Mathematician (RAM) Foundation, Epsilon India is a residential summer camp that empowers mathematically gifted students by combining advanced mathematics education with personal and social development. Epsilon India draws inspiration from the highly regarded Epsilon Camp, founded in the USA in 2011 by veteran research mathematician Dr George R Thomas, founder of Epsilon USA, MathPath and MathCamp.

This year the camp is hosted at the lush green 40-acre campus of Krea University, a leading Liberal Arts and Sciences college situated in Sri City, 70 km from Chennai. Away from the hustle and bustle of a metropolitan, this self-sustained campus boasts of neighbours such as Sriharikota, Kalahasti, Tada and Pulicat.

Cost of accommodation is sponsored by Krea University. For details on other costs, please write to epsiloncampindia@gmail.com. This year the camp is slated from 29 April to 12 May 2025, and the last date for submission of online application is February 10, 2025. To learn more about the application process, visit www.epsilonindia.org.

The camp offers a rigorous curriculum covering a wide array of topics, including Methods of Proofs, Combinatorics, Geometry, Group Theory, and Number Theory. Students are selected on the basis of their performance in the qualification test, a letter of recommendation and an interview. Around 40-50 students are selected from all over India and overseas, out of hundreds of applications. Children spend two screen-free weeks, attending undergraduate-level courses each day, immersing themselves in their passion for the subject. Many participants of the Epsilon India camp perform exceptionally well in Mathematics, Computer Science and Science Olympiads apart from other prestigious competitions at the international level. The camp also offers children and their parents the opportunity to connect with like-minded families, sharing opportunities and perspectives.

The students will be taught primarily by professional Mathematicians, Scientists, Computer Scientists and Statisticians from both academia and industry. Participants will also have Teaching Assistants to help with homework and other academic queries. Counsellors will take care of the students’ socio-emotional needs. Past and current faculty and speakers include Dr S Muralidharan, former Chief Examination Coordinator for India’s official Mathematical Olympiads; Professor Manjul Bhargava, Princeton University, Fields Medalist and Padma Bhushan awardee; Professor Rajeeva L Karandikar, Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Awardee and former director of Chennai Mathematical Institute, Professor Rajiv Gandhi, founder of the PACT, Professor at Rutgers University-Camden, Professor K V Subrahmanyam, Dean of Studies, Chennai Mathematical Institute and more.

Bangalore, February 3, 2025: Gopal Vittal, Vice Chairman & MD, Bharti Airtel and Deputy Chair GSMA has been appointed as the Acting Chair of the GSMA board following the resignation of José Maria Álvares-Pallete, Chairman & CEO, Telefónica from the company. By virtue of this resignation, he is no longer able to continue in the position of the Chair of the GSMA.

Gopal was recently re-elected as the Deputy Chair of the GSMA board. He has also served the board as a key member for the term 2019-2020.

GSMA represents the global telecommunications industry with over 1100 companies from the telecom ecosystem across the world including telecom service providers, handset and device makers, software companies, equipment providers and internet companies, as well as organizations in adjacent industry sectors.

In a world where education, culture, and language intersect to shape individuals and societies, few have contributed as profoundly as Dr. Birbal Jha. Born in the riverine village of Sijoul in Bihar, India, Dr. Jha has carved out a remarkable niche for himself, not only as an educator and self-help author but also as a cultural activist, social entrepreneur, and a staunch advocate for the transformative power of English education. His remarkable achievements have earned him recognition as one of the Top 20 Self-Help Authors in the world, and his impact on the education sector and beyond is undeniable.

Dr. Birbal Jha: The Self-Help Author

Dr. Birbal Jha’s name is synonymous with self-help literature in India. His best-known book, Celebrate Your Life, has been hailed as a game-changer in personal growth. With a focus on empowering individuals to overcome challenges and live fulfilling lives, Celebrate Your Life has touched the hearts of millions. Alongside this, his Spoken English Kit has been instrumental in helping people improve their communication skills, offering tools that have enabled individuals from all walks of life to enhance their career prospects and social mobility.

As a prolific author, Dr. Birbal Jha has written over 30 books on topics ranging from English communication skills to personal development, parenting, and social issues. His writings blend intellectual depth and practical wisdom, always focusing on improving the lives of his readers. His books are not mere additions to libraries; they are transformative tools for anyone looking to enhance their life, career, and personal growth.

Revolutionizing English Education in India

Perhaps one of Dr. Birbal Jha’s most significant contributions to India as well as the world has been his revolutionary approach to English education. In 1993, he founded British Lingua, a social enterprise with the mission of democratizing English education for all. His famous slogan, English for All, captures the essence of his vision — making English accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

Dr. Jha’s innovative Structural-cum-Interactive Method (English SIM) has been lauded for making English language learning quick and efficient, even for beginners. His training methods are designed not just for academic success but also to help individuals build confidence in their daily communication. This approach has been particularly transformative in rural areas and among marginalized communities, where access to English education has historically been limited.
One of the highlights of Dr. Jha’s work was his involvement in the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi. As part of his mission to improve English skills across India, he led the first-ever training program in Spoken English and Behavior Skills for the Games’ frontline workers. This initiative was not only groundbreaking but also demonstrated his ability to mobilize large-scale social change through education.

A Cultural Advocate: Save the Paag Campaign

Dr. Jha is not only a beacon of education but also a passionate advocate for preserving and promoting cultural heritage. In 2017, he launched the Save the Paag Campaign, which focused on raising awareness about the traditional Mithila headgear known as the “Paag.” This unique cultural symbol holds deep significance for the people of Mithila, and Dr. Jha’s campaign aimed to safeguard it from fading into obscurity. His efforts culminated in the issuance of a postal stamp by the Government of India to honor the Paag as a cultural emblem of Mithila.

The campaign connected over forty million people, bringing them together to celebrate and preserve their heritage. His tireless work in this regard earned him the title of “Paagman of India,” a recognition of his leadership in cultural activism. Dr. Jha’s passion for Mithila’s traditions is a testament to his commitment to not only shaping the future of India but also honoring its rich cultural past.

Social Justice and Advocacy for Children’s Rights

Dr. Jha’s work extends beyond education and culture. He is also deeply committed to social justice, particularly when it comes to the safety and well-being of children. His book Child Safety and the poignant lyrics of songs like Kya Gunah Tha Mere Bache Ka (What was the fault of my child?) have shed light on the pressing issues surrounding child safety and the need for greater protection for the most vulnerable members of society. His emotional and powerful lyrics have resonated with millions, further amplifying his voice as a social activist.

His involvement in social causes, particularly his efforts to safeguard children’s rights, has earned him admiration from diverse quarters. Dr. Jha’s ability to combine activism with creative expression is a testament to his multifaceted approach to societal change.

Recognition and Awards

Dr. Birbal Jha’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades, including the National Education Excellence Award (2010), the Star of Asia Award (2016), and the Bihar Achiever Award (2017). These awards serve as recognition not only for his work as an author but also for his broader contributions to society, especially in the realms of education, social justice, and cultural preservation.

In addition to these prestigious honors, Dr. Jha’s work has garnered the respect and admiration of some of the most notable figures in academia and literature. His intellect and multifaceted approach to life have earned him the admiration of people like Oxonian S. Paul, who lauds him as a “veritable polymath,” and Stephanian V. Sukheja, who describes him as a “paragon of human virtues.”

Dr. Jha’s Influence on Indian and Global Education

Dr. Jha’s efforts to revolutionize English education have had a profound impact not only on India but also on the global stage. Through his enterprise British Lingua, millions of students have been trained in English, giving them the skills they need to succeed in the global economy. His work has bridged the gap between India’s rural and urban populations, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth to individuals who would otherwise have been left behind.
His influence is especially significant in the context of India’s education system, which has long faced challenges related to accessibility and quality. Dr. Jha’s emphasis on English as a key tool for success has aligned with global educational trends, which increasingly prioritize English proficiency as a vital skill for students worldwide. In a nation where English proficiency is often a prerequisite for upward mobility, Dr. Jha has opened doors for millions, particularly those in unprivileged communities.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Dr. Birbal Jha’s legacy is one of empowerment — empowering individuals through education, culture, and social change. His work has transformed the lives of millions, helping them gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in a competitive world. From his innovative approach to teaching English to his tireless efforts to preserve cultural heritage and protect children’s rights, Dr. Jha has demonstrated that one person can indeed make a difference in shaping the future.

His books, courses, and social initiatives have impacted not just the lives of individuals but also the broader societal landscape, creating lasting change in the way people view education, culture, and personal growth. Through his work, Dr. Birbal Jha has proven that the path to success is not just through knowledge but through a commitment to making the world a better place for everyone.

Dean Mahomed: A Historical Parallel

To understand the significance of Dr. Birbal Jha’s contributions to English education in India, it’s important to look back at history. One of the first authors in India to write in English was Dean Mahomed, a figure largely forgotten in the annals of Indian history. Born in 1759 in Patna, Bihar, Mahomed was an early pioneer of English literature in India, authoring a memoir titled The Travels of Dean Mahomed, which is considered one of the earliest English books written by an Indian author. This historical connection between Dr. Jha and Mahomed underscores a long-standing tradition of literary contributions from Bihar to the English-speaking world. Just as Mahomed’s work bridged cultures and created awareness about India’s rich heritage, Dr. Jha’s work continues to transform lives, particularly by making English education accessible to those who were previously excluded from it.

Conclusion

Dr. Birbal Jha is more than just an educator or author; he is a symbol of the transformative power of education, culture, and activism. His work has touched the lives of millions, inspiring them to reach for their dreams and embrace their cultural identities. As one of the Top 20 Self-Help Authors in India, he stands as a beacon of hope and possibility for countless individuals across the country. His legacy is a testament to the power of education to change lives, and his vision continues to inspire future generations to come.

Dr. Jha’s life and work demonstrate that true success lies not only in personal achievement but also in the ability to uplift others. Whether through his books, his social campaigns, or his educational initiatives, Dr. Birbal Jha has shown that the pursuit of knowledge and the desire to create a positive impact are the keys to a better world.

Sundaram Finance logs highest-ever 9M disbursements of Rs. 21,532 crores; AUM grows 19% to Rs. 50,199 crores

The Board of Directors of Sundaram Finance Ltd. (SFL) approved the unaudited standalone and consolidated financial results for the nine months ended Dec 31, 2024, at its meeting held on Feb 03, 2025, in Chennai.

“Economic activity in the festival season that marks Q3 has been below expectations. Team Sundaram has delivered a terrific Q3 with 19% growth in AUM to Rs. 50,199 crores, improving asset quality with net stage 3 at 0.97% vs 1.02% last year and profits from operations growing 22% year-on-year. Our Group companies in asset management, general insurance and home finance have continued their trajectory from FY24 and recorded strong results. We continue to rely on our time-tested approach of steady and sustainable growth with best-in-class asset quality and consistent profitability,” said Harsha Viji, Executive Vice Chairman.

Disbursements for 9MFY25 recorded a growth of 8% over 9MFY24 with 19% growth in disbursements for Q3FY25 over last year. Gross stage 3 assets improved over the previous year. Gross stage 3 assets as of December 31, 2024, stood at 1.70% with a provision cover of 43% as against 1.77% as of December 31, 2023, with a provision cover of 43%. Core operations performed strongly with profit from operations up by 22% in 9MFY25. Profits after tax at Rs. 997 crores registered an increase of 5% in 9MFY25 as against Rs. 948 crores in 9MFY24, primarily due to a shift in the timing of dividends in the prior period (Rs. 43 crores in 9MFY25 vs Rs. 181 crores in 9MFY24). Return on assets closed at 2.49% in 9MFY25 as against 2.79% for 9MFY24 and capital adequacy at 20.0% remains quite comfortable.

“It has been a strong quarter for the company despite a relatively muted Q3 for the industry. We have gained market share across nearly all asset classes that we focus on, resulting in 19% growth in disbursements for the quarter YOY and 19% AUM growth. Our asset quality continues to improve, even as the collections environment for the sector tightens. Operating profits (excluding dividends and one-time gains) have grown strongly by 22%. Looking ahead, we are well positioned to continue our marathon running – steady growth, best-in-class asset quality and continued resilient profitability – and in delivering the Sundaram experience to our customers, people and partners,” said Rajiv Lochan, Managing Director.

STANDALONE PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR 9MFY25

• Disbursements for Q3FY25 grew by 19% to Rs. 7,764 crores as compared to Rs. 6,524 crores registered in Q3FY24. Disbursements for 9MFY25 grew by 8% to Rs. 21,532 crores as compared to Rs. 19,954 crores registered in 9MFY24.
• The assets under management grew by 19% to Rs. 50,199 crores as on 31st December 2024 as against Rs. 42,172 crores as on 31st December 2023.
• Net interest income grew 21.4% to Rs. 2,040 crores in 9MFY25 from Rs. 1,681 crores in 9MFY24.
• Gross stage 3 as on 31st December 2024 stood at 1.70% with 43% provision cover as against 1.77% with provision cover of 43% as on 31st December 2023. Net stage 3 as on 31st December 2024 closed at 0.97% as against 1.02% as on 31st December 2023.
• The Gross and Net NPA, as per RBI’s asset classification norms for NBFCs, are 2.46% and 1.62% respectively as against 2.61% and 1.82% as of 31st December 2023.
• Profit from operations increased by 22% in 9MFY25 as compared to 9MFY24.
• Cost to income ratio closed at 31.37% in 9MFY25 as against 35.12% in 9MFY24.
• Profit after tax registered a 5% rise in 9MFY25, with net profit at Rs. 997 crores. The company had registered a net profit of Rs. 948 crores in 9MFY24.
• Return on assets (ROA) for 9MFY25 closed at 2.49% as against 2.79% for 9MFY24. Return on equity (ROE) was at 14.3% for 9MFY25 as against 15.5% for 9MFY24.
• Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 20.0% (Tier I –16.6%) as of 31st December 2024 compared to 20.0% (Tier I – 16.0%) as of 31st December 2023.
• The Company has declared an interim dividend of Rs. 14/- per share (140%).

CONSOLIDATED PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR 9MFY25

The consolidated results of SFL include the results of its standalone subsidiaries Sundaram Home Finance, Sundaram Asset Management and joint venture company Royal Sundaram General Insurance.
• The assets under management (AUM) in our lending and general insurance businesses stood at Rs. 75,708 crores as on 31st December 2024 as against Rs. 63,658 crores as on 31st December 2023, a growth of 19%. The assets under management of our asset management business stood at Rs. 76,038 crores as on 31st December 2024 as against Rs. 67,272 crores as on 31st December 2023, a growth of 13%.
• Profit after tax for 9MFY25 grew by 14% to Rs. 1,326 crores as compared to Rs. 1,168 crores in 9MFY24.

GROUP COMPANY PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS

Our group companies continued to perform well.

• The asset management business closed the nine months ended 31st December 2024 with assets under management of Rs. 76,038 crores (over 80% in equity) and consolidated profits from the asset management businesses was at Rs. 107 crores as against Rs. 74 crores in 9MFY24.

• Royal Sundaram reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs. 2,965 crores as compared to Rs. 2,792 crores in the corresponding period of the previous year, representing a growth of 6%. The Company reported a profit after tax of Rs. 134 crores for 9MFY25 as against a profit of Rs. 178 crores in 9MFY24.

• Sundaram Home Finance continued to grow strongly with disbursements up by 29% to Rs. 4,588 crores in 9MFY25. The profit for 9MFY25 was Rs. 173 crores, as against Rs. 179 crores in 9MFY24.

February 03, 2025, Chennai: The Indian Art and Design Educators Association (IADEA) held its Sixth Annual Art Educators Conference at Kalakshetra Auditorium Hall on 31st January and 1st February 2025 here in Chennai. The conference had over 80 art educators from Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Erode, Ranipet, Jaipur, Delhi, Ajmer, and Bengaluru, attending the two-day event. Several global and national experts came together to discuss current and future narratives encompassing art education for and alongside 100 school art teachers. The two days were punctuated with a number of interactive sessions and workshops anchored on diverse topics. In her keynote speech Dr. Jyotsna Tiwari, HOD, Art and Aesthetics of NCERT, Delhi,highlighted the integration of art in education: the vision of NEP 2020 and the way forward.

Sara Vetteth, Founder of IADEA said, “In the future, every career will demand visually literate professionals—those who can research, think critically and communicate fluently using images and words. No matter the medium – whether it be mark-making with pencil, working with fiber, manipulating clay or image capture with a camera phone, the theme for this year’s conference is – how do we rethink the art class to make it useful for every learner? By guiding students through lines of enquiry and the design cycle, art educators can foster deeper exploration and creative problem-solving.”

On Day one, there was a delightful session on decoding the vocabulary of Warli, by renowned Warli artist & educator, Mayur Vayeda, followed by Dr. Alka Hingorani, one of the founders of “Learn Through Stories Foundation” and art educator Nivedita Deshmukh explored freedom and learning in art education. Italian Book designer and visual artist, Valentina Abenavoli took the participants through a fascinating session on exploring art through book making. Melissa Nolas, founder, Childrens Photography Archive, London, and Gayatri Nair, founding trustee, of Chennai Photo Biennale hosted the session on discovering photography’s place in an art class. The session highlighted the use of photography as a medium to encourage students of varying abilities to develop their language, vocabulary, and storytelling skills.

The inaugural day concluded with the awarding of the 2025 Camlin Art Teacher Excellence Awards to ten art educators. Awarded across five categories, the accolade celebrates the impact of art lessons and its significance in a student’s learning journey.

Mr. Satish Veerappa, Managing Director, Kokuyo Camlin Ltd said “The Art Teacher plays a very important role in the growth of a child. In this way, art teachers contribute immensely to the creative force of a nation. The values of inventiveness, creativity and passion that The Camlin Art Teacher Excellence Award celebrates are the same values that are necessary to build the start-ups and enterprises of the future. Behind every child who grows up to be innovative, resourceful, process oriented, collaborative and confident is an art teacher who showed them the way. Camlin admires and respects your contribution to art and the nurturing of artistic talent.”

Day two of the conference began with a speaker session by Lina Vincent, Curator and Educator from Goa, who spoke about her collaborative exhibition which uses plants in various ways to investigate pressing global issues. Siddhi Gupta, Faculty member at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology, led the participants through an interactive workshop using visual thinking to reflect on what it means for an artist to be an educator. Chennai-based photographer Mr. Sunder Ramu led teachers through a guided workshop on using phone photography in the classroom as a medium to express thoughts, moods and unique perspectives. After lunch, the participants were taken on a special curator-led tour of selected Chennai photo biennale photography exhibits at Lalit Kala Academy and Egmore Museum. The tour was led by Gayatri Nair, Co-founder and Director of Education at CPB prism and Varun Gupta, Biennale Director at CPB.

List of Award winners

· Best use of Elements of Art

Winner– Deepti Karthik, Sarvam The Organic School, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Runner-up- Vijayaraghavan Srinivasan, KC High School Chennai

· Collaboration in the Art Room

Winner– Dinesh Kumar, Balsam Academy, Ranipet,

Runner up– R Subramanian and Aishwarya C, AMM School, Chennai

· Innovation in the Art Room

Winner– Vijayaraghavan Srinivasan, KC High School Chennai

Runner up Prem Nazir, Lakshmi School, Madurai

· Instilling Creative Confidence

Winner– Arun Kumar, Chettinad Sarvalokaa Education International School, Chennai

Runner-up Gayathri Vasu, Independent Art Educator, Chennai

· Promoting Artistic Practice

Winner– Amrutha Anand, Independent Art Educator, Chennai

Runner up -Vimal Sivaraman, Rak’s Pallikkoodam School of Excellence, Coimbatore

Bengaluru February 3rd, 2025: As we observe World Cancer Day here is a meaningful intervention by Bengaluru doctors. Two friends came together seven years ago to turn their dreams into reality, sparking their research into oral cancer screening. After years of hard work, they have achieved a breakthrough, receiving a prestigious grant for their efforts. Dr Narayana Subramaniam, a head and neck surgical oncologist, and Hardik Pandya, an IISc engineer-scientist, have secured a Rs 20.6 crore ($2.4 million) U-01 grant from the US National Institutes of Health. Partnering with GE Healthcare, their project to develop a rapid, low-cost oral cancer screening platform stood out among competitive global entries.

The duo has developed a ‘pan-cancer diagnostic platform’ prototype that utilizes advanced imaging technology to examine cells from the human body for the detection of cancers, with the primary focus initially being on ‘oral cancer’. The goal is to make cancer diagnostics more accessible, efficient, and affordable, particularly in underserved regions like Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where access to pathology services and specialists is limited. The platform images and analyzes cells, providing an accurate and efficient way to detect cancer.

Subramaniam explained that current cancer diagnostics require patients often to travel to hospitals multiple times for tests. This process delays diagnosis by days or weeks, creating a significant barrier, particularly for economically disadvantaged patients. “In smaller towns and rural areas, where biopsies often need to be sent to metropolitan centers for analysis due to a lack of local facilities or pathologists, this technology could allow digital imaging to be done on-site.”

Pandya said, “This prototype will digitize the images locally, so only the images need to be transmitted over the internet for analysis. This could reduce the turnaround time for diagnosis and be used for the detection of cancers. At the end of the day, it’s an efficient, accurate way of looking at cells from the human body. With the resources provided by this grant, we aim to build out the platform further, helping patients and doctors in many other ways.”

Highlighting the accessibility gap, Pandya shared how their portable scanner integrates advanced imaging and artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline cancer screening. “The technology allows ASHA workers or primary physicians to collect and analyze cell samples onsite, minimizing reliance on specialized pathologists. The AI assists in identifying atypical cells and ensures only necessary cases are referred for further analysis, reducing costs and delays,” he explained.

The duo emphasized affordability as a cornerstone of their research. While conventional slide scanners cost upwards of Rs 30 lakh, their goal is to develop a portable device priced below Rs 1 lakh. “We aim to design an indigenous solution using 3D-printed hardware and locally sourced components to bring down manufacturing costs,” said Pandya.

Our technology combines cytology and histology features, making it versatile for primary and tertiary care. The AI not only aids in screening but also ensures pathologists retain the final decision-making authority.

The team hopes to complete validation and move towards mass production within five years, envisioning a transformative impact on oral cancer care in India. Subramaniam shared, “India is the oral cancer capital of the world. With this platform, we aim to improve survival rates and reduce treatment costs by diagnosing cancer earlier and integrating patients into the healthcare system seamlessly.”

The friends further said that if the present model gets clicked in the market, they have further plans to expand into other areas of cancer like cervical and breast. The mission is to create a solution that is not only cutting-edge but also accessible to the masses. Pandya said, “The emphasis is on ‘affordable care’ that can reach people in need, rather than limiting the technology to premium services in urban areas or private institutions.”

Quote Box:

Dr Narayanaya Subramaniam Head & Neck Cancer specialist

“I always call Hardik ‘Willy Wonka’ because his lab at IISc is like a treasure trove of prototypes and ideas. Since I met him, I’ve been pulling him toward cancer research, specifically head and neck cancers, which make up 99% of what I care about. Hardik is incredibly passionate and technically brilliant. If he’d chosen to focus on making money, he could’ve done so easily in many other fields. But his commitment to social impact is what drives us both. Over the past seven years, we’ve faced countless failures in securing large grants, but we’ve persisted because we share the same vision for affordable care.”

Hardik Pandya, engineer-scientist, IISc

“Collaboration is crucial. When it comes to healthcare innovation, interdisciplinary research is the way forward. Engineers, scientists, and doctors need to work together, but true collaboration happens only when each discipline values the other. In healthcare, doctors should lead proposals because they’re the end users. They understand the challenges and needs better than anyone else. Institutes like IISc and programs like MD-PhD are steps in the right direction, bridging gaps and enabling meaningful collaborations that can truly impact society.”

February 1, 2025: Where sneaker culture meets vintage beats, sports brand PUMA India turned up the retro vibe at the Indian Sneaker Festival ongoing at the Backyard Sports Ground, Gurugram. Bringing back the magic of 60s music and classic terrace style, the brand spotlighted its iconic Palermo sneaker with a pop-up that felt straight out of a golden-era record store.

PUMA has pulled out all the stops to give sneakerheads an immersive experience like never before. Picture terrace culture drenched in retro beats, vintage cool with a bold and modern edge.

Inspired by the original soundtrack created for the Palermo digital Film released in 2024 featuring Ibrahim Ali Khan Pataudi and Ayesha Kanga among others, the pop-up reimagines the vibe of the 60s music record store but with a PUMA spin. Imagine a walk through rows of vinyl records, CD showcases, a record-style sneaker display, and a listening station pumping curated tracks, this aesthetic, Instagrammable pop-up is the ultimate celebration of the power of music—a timeless classic—much like the Palermo sneaker itself.

PUMA chose the 4th edition of the Indian Sneaker Festival to offer a fun, multi-sensorial experience for sneakerheads to get a first-hand feel and vibe of the iconic Palermo sneaker. In addition, the pop-up features a customization station where shoppers can accessorize their new Palermos with charms and create a memorable PUMA experience.

The Palermo sneaker, with its signature mix of bold colorways and undeniable retro charm, is perfect for those who love to blend vintage style with new-age spirit. It is all about fun, friendships, and that effortlessly cool ’60s energy. The Palermo comes in a range of vibrant colorways, from bold and electric to classic and understated, offering something for every style. Each shade is a nod to retro charm, reimagined for the modern-day sneaker lover.

What’s Happening at the Pop-Up?

· Shop the Goods: Exclusive Palermo sneakers and premium Prime Select apparel are up for grabs.

· Customisation Station: Bought some PUMA heat? Make it yours with a customization set-up only for pop-up shoppers.

· 500 Giveaways: Join the buzz for a chance to win from our 500-product giveaways, inspired by the retro record store vibe.

· Special Appearance: Actor and trendsetter Ayesha Kanga is set to make an appearance at the PUMA Palermo pop-up on February 1st, bringing her unique flair to the mix.

The Palermo is calling—are you ready to create some Instagrammable moments? Bring your crew, grab some kicks, and soak up the vibes at the Palermo pop-up, set up till Feb 2.

In an industry where rapid advancements and fierce competition define the landscape, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has firmly established itself as a leading player. This February, the company marks a significant milestone—celebrating three years since its inception. Over the past three years, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has made notable strides in providing innovative digital marketing services, web development, and creative solutions to businesses across the globe.

A Vision Brought to Life

Founded with a vision to help businesses enhance their online presence, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has grown to be a trusted partner for companies seeking professional and customized digital marketing strategies. The company’s approach combines creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of the evolving digital landscape.

In just three years, the company has built a solid reputation for delivering tailored solutions to clients, ensuring they not only meet but exceed their digital goals. From SEO and social media marketing to website development and branding, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to elevate brands and drive business growth.

Key Milestones and Achievements

The company’s journey has been marked by several key milestones:

Expanding Client Base: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has successfully built a diverse portfolio of clients spanning across various industries, including retail, technology, education, healthcare, and more. Their client-centric approach and focus on results have played a significant role in fostering long-lasting relationships.

Innovative Solutions: From search engine optimization (SEO) that ensures high search rankings to mobile-responsive website designs, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has continuously integrated the latest trends and technologies into its services. Their ability to adapt to the fast-paced nature of the digital marketing world has allowed them to stay ahead of the curve.

A Growing Team of Experts: The growth of the company can be attributed to its talented and dedicated team of professionals who bring diverse expertise to the table. Their passion for delivering exceptional service has been instrumental in Shreyas Webmedia Solutions’ success.

Awards and Recognition: The company has also earned accolades for its exceptional work, including recognition from various industry bodies. These achievements reflect the commitment and dedication of the Shreyas Webmedia Solutions team to providing top-quality service to clients.

Looking to the Future

As Shreyas Webmedia Solutions celebrates this impressive achievement, the company remains focused on continuous improvement and growth. They are committed to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies and trends to deliver cutting-edge solutions to their clients.

“We are extremely proud of what we have achieved over the past three years, but this is just the beginning. We are constantly evolving and adapting to meet the needs of our clients. The digital world is always changing, and we are excited to help businesses navigate that change and emerge stronger than ever,” said Mr. Neel Achary, CEO and the visionary behind Shreyas Webmedia Solutions.

As Shreyas Webmedia Solutions celebrates its third anniversary, it is clear that the company’s innovative approach, commitment to excellence, and focus on client satisfaction have contributed to its growth and success. With a bright future ahead, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions is poised to continue transforming digital marketing and web development for years to come.