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National, 16 February 2024: Hungama Digital Media Entertainment Pvt. Ltd, a leading digital entertainment company, and BharatBox, the cutting-edge Web3 solution provider join hands to present a groundbreaking fusion of music, technology, and fan engagement by a live concert featuring the incredibly talented Ritviz. Known for his soul-stirring performances, Ritviz is set to take the stage at Phoenix Citadel, Indore, on the 17th of February 2024, starting at 5 pm.

From chart-toppers like ‘Udd Gaye’ and ‘Barso’ to the soulful ‘Liggi,’ Ritviz’s music is a fusion of electronic beats, Indian classical influences, and captivating vocals, captivating fans across India and around the world. His unique musical blend has garnered him a massive fan following, and this live performance is set to be a spellbinding showcase of his exceptional talent. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable evening filled with the magic of Ritviz’s music – an experience that is bound to resonate long after the beats fade away.

Soumini Paul, Senior Vice President of Hungama Digital Media said, “We’re excited for a special musical concert in Indore. This partnership with BharatBox aligns seamlessly with our commitment to delivering unparalleled entertainment. With Ritviz’s mesmerizing musical prowess at the helm, this concert promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. Join us for an evening filled with pure enjoyment, as we collectively embark on a transformative adventure you won’t want to miss.”

Adding on, singer-songwriter Ritviz shared, “I am thrilled by the electrifying energy of concerts —it’s an anticipation I eagerly embrace. Collaborating with Hungama and BharatBox fills me with joy as I prepare to connect with fans for an unforgettable night of music and revelry. I’m excited to curate an atmosphere brimming with pure joy and celebration for everyone to enjoy.”

Karan Keswani, CEO, BharatBox said, “Our collaboration with Hungama at Ritviz’s concert is just the beginning of our efforts to integrate collectables for concert visitors, and we will also be adding future utility to the collectables for the Hungama World located in The Sandbox. Music enthusiasts, join us for an evening filled with unforgettable melodies and an electric atmosphere.”

New Delhi,16th Feb 2024- The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) jointly with PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) and Hotel Association of India will host “Travel for Life; Tourism Sustainability Summit, an event set to redefine the path of sustainable tourism in India. Under the ambit of the Ministry of Tourism’s Travel for Life program, the summit will be held on 8th March 2024, 10.00 am at Hotel Le-Meridien, New Delhi. The Summit will address crucial aspects of sustainable tourism, aligning with global imperatives for environmental protection and climate action. This event is supported by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, (UK), Niti Aayog, Invest India and KPMG as Knowledge Partner. This initiative stems from India’s commitment, particularly highlighted during its G20 Presidency, to foster a tourism sector that champions sustainability and resilience.

This Summit aims to address key aspects of tourism sustainability, particularly focusing on the “Travel for Life” program, which emphasizes responsible and sustainable tourism practices, aligning with global efforts for a greener and more eco-friendly travel industry. The initiative shall further strengthen India’s position as a “global tourism and hospitality destination” besides fostering cooperation at national, bilateral, regional & sub-regional, multilateral and international levels. This Summit shall bring together various important stakeholders from the government, industry, diplomatic fraternity, international agencies, practitioners and media at one platform to ideate and make a forward-looking action plan for “tourism sustainability” at a global scale.

Through the sharing of best practices and exemplary case studies from global sources, stakeholders will be inspired and informed, contributing to informed decision-making. It also proposes actionable frameworks aligned with the innovative Goa Roadmap for Tourism while highlighting the indispensable role of technology and green investments in advancing sustainability within the industry.

According to Mr Pradeep Shetty, President of FHRAI, “The Travel for Life Summit marks a pivotal moment for India’s tourism and hospitality industry. As stewards of this vibrant sector, we recognize the imperative to embrace sustainability as a guiding principle. Through this summit, we aim to galvanise stakeholders towards a collective vision of responsible tourism that not only enriches visitor experiences but also safeguards our planet for future generations. We also expect that the knowledge report published by KPMG at the Summit on national and international best practices on Sustainable Tourism will herald a new paradigm shift in tourism & hospitality in India”.

FHRAI PHDCCI and HAI invite all stakeholders to join this landmark event and contribute to shaping the future of sustainable tourism in India. Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of North Eastern Region has consented to be the Chief Guest of the Summit where Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and Former CEO, Niti Aayog will be the Guest of Honour.

Ms. Manish Saxena, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Pradeep Shetty, President, FHRAI; Sanjeev Agrawal, President, PHDCCI Yugal Joshi, Mission Director, Niti Aayog; Rohit Khosla, EVP Operations, North, IHCL; H C Vinayaka, Vice President, Technical, EHS & Sustainability, ITC Hotels; Sachin Mylavarapu, Senior Area Director of Operations-South Asia, Marriot International Inc.; Aradhana Lal, Senior Vice President (Sustainability & ESG), Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd; Akanksha Singh, Global Sustainability Manager, Radisson Hotel Group; Harish Chandra, Managing Director, HotelKey are some of the eminent speakers and panellists that will take part in the discussions at the Summit.

The event will also have a host of international speakers including H.E. Amb Dr Shankar Prasad Sharma, Ambassador of Nepal to India H.E. Amb Major General Vetsop Namgyel, Ambassador of Bhutan to India, H.E. Mr Dato’ Muzafar Shah Mustafa, High Commissioner of Malaysia to India, Philip Halanen, Head of Sourcing and Sustainability, EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Glenn Mandziuk, CEO, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, UK

NEW DELHI—February 16, 2024—The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) and the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA) today welcomed the release of a report evaluating India’s existing semiconductor ecosystem and policy frameworks and offering recommendations to facilitate longer-term strategic development of complementary semiconductor ecosystems in the U.S. and India. The report, titled “Assessing India’s Readiness to Assume a Greater Role in Global Semiconductor Value Chains,” was authored by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF). It was commissioned by SIA and IESA through the U.S.-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) to inform government efforts to deepen commercial ties in this strategic sector.

“This is an exciting moment in history for the semiconductor industry and for strategic cooperation between the U.S. and India,” said John Neuffer, SIA president and CEO. “India is already an important link in the global semiconductor supply chain and has the opportunity to expand its role in our sector. While global competition for semiconductor investment is fierce, India’s value proposition is strong, and I’m confident it can grow even stronger with the right mix of government policies.”

Ashok Chandak, president of IESA, stated, “Given its rapidly expanding domestic market, a well-developed design ecosystem, supportive government policies, and concerted industry collaboration to tap global markets, the present juncture presents a unique opportunity for the establishment of semiconductor manufacturing in India. The report underscores India’s tremendous progress towards becoming a prime destination for electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, capitalizing on its robust semiconductor design ecosystem.”

The ITIF report concludes India’s value proposition as an investment destination for high-tech industries is promising, and identifies opportunities in India to further improve its policy, regulatory, and business environment to better compete for investment from semiconductor companies seeking to diversify their supply chains. In particular, it recommends exploring further work in the following areas to strengthen India’s semiconductor competitiveness:

· Advance U.S.-India cooperation on semiconductors through a partnership under the CHIPS for America International Technology Security and Innovation Fund (ITSI);

· Create a pilot visa program to facilitate the circulation of skilled workers between the U.S. and India, as a potential deliverable of the iCET;

· Advance policy reforms to lower the cost of doing business for semiconductor companies in India, including offering tax breaks to chip companies, reducing customs administration burdens, and expediting clearance times for goods entering the country;

· Establish cross-sector partnerships with higher-education institutions to grow India’s semiconductor-ready workforce; and

· Facilitate robust and ongoing consultation with semiconductor industry stakeholders.

An event launching the report will take place on Feb. 22 at 9 a.m. EST at ITIF (700 K St NW, Suite 600 Washington DC, 20001).

New Delhi, 16th February 2024 – Mobikasa, a top-rated web and app development company, demonstrates its dedication to promoting digital inclusivity via its Digital Accessibility vertical. This initiative focuses on making digital assets, such as websites, mobile apps, and PDFs accessible to people with disabilities. Clients can benefit from a range of tools and methods provided by Mobikasa for accessibility audits and remediation, including checks for keyboard, contrast, zoom, and other essential parameters.

Mobikasa adapts emerging trends in digital accessibility that promise a future wherein the internet is genuinely inclusive. AI-powered solutions, coupled with the rise of immersive technologies such as AR/VR, are at the forefront of these trends. Automatic image descriptions using computer vision, haptic feedback, sensory interfaces, spatial audio design, and Voice User Interfaces (VUIs) are all set to transform the digital landscape, making it intuitive and accessible for users with varying abilities.

Mobikasa provides accessibility training and consultation services to help organizations become digitally inclusive. Experts certified by the International Association of Accessibility Specialists (IAAP) develop brand-specific code playbooks and offer guidance and technical training. The company actively engages with industry experts through participation in global conferences, seminars, forums, etc.

Mr. Prateek Sachdev, Managing Partner at Mobikasa, emphasized the company’s commitment to digital inclusivity. He stated, “Our dedicated business vertical aims to empower corporations to make their digital assets accessible to users with disabilities. Our comprehensive accessibility testing and remediation solutions, underscore our determination to create a truly inclusive digital world.”

Mobikasa’s accessibility experts stand out for their technical knowledge, accessibility guidelines adherence, and user-centered approach. They function as Accessibility Advocates, not just auditors, providing clients with comprehensive digital accessibility solutions.

Mobikasa remains at the forefront of digital accessibility, ensuring that its digital experiences are inclusive for all users.

New Delhi: The inaugural International Inclusion Alliance Conference 2024, held at the prestigious Stein Auditorium, Indian Habitat Centre, on the 15th of February 2024 marked a historic moment in the global pursuit of inclusivity and diversity. Organized by Global DEI Specialist Shruti Swaroop and Dr. Neeraj A Sharma, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Palau to India and Co-Founder of IIA, the event brought together esteemed diplomats, corporate leaders, academicians, and advocates from around the world to engage in critical discussions and collaborative action.

The presence of Chief Guest Ms. Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Culture, added to the significance of the event. Her support underscored the government’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity on both national and international levels. Addressing the confluence she said, “International inclusion Alliance, such beautiful words and I was reflecting that at the heart of our mission as a country is inclusion. We strive to embrace everyone, leaving no one behind. In our pursuit, we recognise the myriad ways people can be marginalised – economically, politically, socially. Bridging these divides is paramount. At the recent G20 summit hosted by India, we amplified the voices of the marginalised through a Global South Summit, ensuring their concerns shape global policies. With our rich experience, India champions inclusion, lifting millions out of poverty, advancing healthcare, and sharing vaccines with the world. Inclusion isn’t just a concept, it’s our ethos, rooted in our Constitution and civilisation’s values. Together, let’s create a more inclusive, cooperative world and that is what the IIA conference is also about that inclusion within India can be a template internationally.”

Shruti Swaroop, hosted a panel discussion about Societal Inclusion with Panelists: Ms. Geeta L, Founder-President of Swayam Foundation,Filmmaker, Author and Scriptwriter, D.r Sabyasachi Saha, Associate Professor – RIS, Ms. Pooja O. Murada, Principal Lead, SM Sehgal Foundation, Ms. Manisha Gulati, Former Chairperson Punjab State Women’s Commission, Dr. Nirupama Prakash, Director of Amity institute of Social Sciences, Amity University – Noida.

Shruti Swaroop, Founder, Embrace Consulting and InclusiBuild, Co-founder of ERTZ and IIA expressed gratitude to all panelists for their contributions and emphasised the importance of sustained efforts in driving positive change. She said, “This is something very close to my heart, stemming from my personal experience where I never perceived differences based on gender or background. However, upon moving to the UK, I encountered division based on nationality. So we are often categorised by gender, nationality, education, appearance, and affiliations. Let’s discuss on the ways to dismantle these perceptions and use media platforms to promote societal inclusion and create a platform for people to speak and create that awareness. Let’s look at social inclusion with policies that are macro level that we can create that can play into a more inclusive society. I believe inclusion starts young and inclusion begins at home. Are we truly inclusive if we label individuals? We must challenge these societal norms. Whether at home or work, inclusivity should be consistent. Let’s reshape societal parameters and embrace diversity. The International Inclusion Alliance Conference 2024 has laid the foundation for continued collaboration and action towards a more inclusive world.”

His Excellency Dr. Neeraj A Sharma, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Palau to India and Co-Founder of IIA shared, “The International Inclusion Alliance champions a world where everyone, regardless of borders, enjoys social, gender, and financial equality. By fostering awareness and collaboration with global entities, we strive to cultivate inclusive environments and workspaces. At our inaugural conference, representatives from diverse nations, esteemed leaders, and government officials came together to share insights and perspectives on inclusion. We’re privileged to have had Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi ji grace our event and share her insights on inclusivity.”

His Excellency, H.E. Mr. David Pine, High Commissioner of New Zealand to India shard, “Inclusion is a vital road map for society. From village dialogues on sanitation to international finance complexities, communication is key. Hosting a distinguished Māori judge from New Zealand, the first indigenous judge on High Court in a long history, I learned that in disagreements, fair processes matter most. In a world of varied perspectives, striving for perfect justice is futile. We must continue having conversations on justice, ensuring that all voices are heard. Conferences like today signify progress, guiding us towards the right path of inclusivity and understanding. Congratulations to the organisers for this terrific. Let’s keep conversing, for inclusivity knows no bounds.”

Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Honorary Consul Generals representing various countries shared unique insights and experiences on fostering inclusivity within their borders. Their contributions enriched the dialogue and provided valuable lessons for global cooperation. The conference served as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration across borders.

Mumbai, 16th February 2024: Say goodbye to all those boring & mundane days as Ferrero India, a part of the Ferrero Group, has just unleashed a fun explosion of vibrant and infectious energy, with its latest campaign for Tic Tac! Brace yourselves for #VibeHai, the electrifying campaign that ignites your youthful spirit and makes you dance your heart out.

Picture this: Actor Ranveer Singh, Bollywood’s fireball of liveliness, bursts into your screen with an explosion of energy and enthusiasm. Here, he is seen vibing to the raw and exhilarating rhythm of Yashraj Mukhate’s irresistible beats.

His moves? Each step is a kaleidoscope of cool vibes, that perfectly mirrors the fun spirit of Tic Tac, that spreads cheer & good vibes, overcoming the daily hassles & challenges, while inspiring a positive outlook towards Life! This isn’t just a campaign, it’s a movement. Tic Tac’s campaign inspires you, to evoke hope & positivity in your lives.

Yashraj Mukhate’s infectious jingle, “Vibe Hai… Tic Tac Wali Life Hai,” mesmerises you into pure, unadulterated fun. The original soundtrack transforms into a catchy & foot-tapping tune, perfectly matching the throbbing energy of Ranveer’s dance moves. The music video creates a riveting experience that goes beyond the ordinary, encouraging everyone to indulge in Tic Tac’s Playful Spirit. The brand will also be going vernacular with this song to appeal to the local lingo with support from Yashraj Mukhate, who is composing regional renditions for the first time.

Mr. Zoher Kapuswala, Marketing Head (Pills & Gums) at Ferrero India, states: “Being a Youth-oriented Brand, Tic Tac touches the passion points of the vibrant youth of India. It invites the Youth to spread the Cheer, & to playfully express themselves, without holding back. Ranveer’s infectious energy and Yashraj’s refreshing composition makes for a fun cocktail designed to ignite a supernova of good vibes.”

Remember, it’s not just about the mint, it’s about unlocking the epic adventure that is your life. Tic Tac will add a pop of flavour and a whole lotta fun to the ride.

Looking for the perfect way to unwind and indulge in some top-notch entertainment this weekend? Look no further than our curated list of must-watch OTT releases! From gripping thrillers to heartwarming dramas and everything in between, we’ve got you covered with the latest and greatest offerings from the world of streaming. So grab your popcorn, kick back, and get ready to immerse yourself in the best that the digital world has to offer!

Love Storiyaan

Platform: Prime Video

Date: 14th February

Led by Karan Johar, “Love Storiyaan” presents a heartfelt series exploring love’s intricacies through six genuine narratives. Each episode depicts the remarkable journeys of diverse couples, highlighting their resilience amidst obstacles for love. Inspired by the India Love Project, the series celebrates love’s ability to overcome cultural, religious, gender, and even adversarial barriers. It serves as a tribute to the potency of love, drawing from real stories curated by the India Love Project, founded by former journalists Priya Ramani, Samar Halarnkar, and Niloufer Venkatraman, showcasing tales of love that transcend all challenges.

Vaat Vaat Ma Adla Badali

Platform: ShemarooMe

Date: 14th February

Directed by Kartavya Shah, ‘Vaat Vaat Ma Adla Badali’, guarantees a captivating mix of romance starring Gujarat’s heartthrob, Malhar Thakar, and the talented Puja Joshi. It’s a cinematic journey that explores the complexities of love in Ahmedabad. The story revolves around Anand (Malhar Thakar) and Khushi (Puja Joshi). Anand’s lively family, including his parents, sister, and grandmother, adds depth to the plot. As Anand, who dreams of becoming a politician, nears marriageable age, his father encourages him to explore matrimony. Khushi enters the picture, hailing from a family with both parents. The tapestry of cultures unfolds as Anand’s vibrant Pol culture clashes with Khushi’s sophistication. Despite parental objections, the couple ties the knot and tries to unite their families by moving in together. The collision of these worlds promises a charming tale of love, cultural diversity, and the intricacies of relationships. Watch ‘Vaat Vaat Ma Adla Badali’ on ShemarooMe.

The Kerala Story

Platform: Zee5

Date: 16th February

“The Kerala Story” on Zee5 is about a group of women from Kerala. They are pressured into changing their religion to Islam and joining a group called the Islamic State. Shalini Unnikrishnan, one of these women, tells her story. She dreamed of becoming a nurse but was tricked by some people who pretended to be her friends in college. They forced her to join the Islamic State, and she ended up being locked up in Afghanistan. The movie is directed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah. It stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Sonia Balani, and Siddhi Idnani.

Raisinghani vs Raisinghani

Platform: SonyLiv

Date: 12th February

“Raisinghani vs Raisinghani” on SonyLiv follows the Raisinghani family as they face a challenging legal battle that strains their family ties and principles. Starring Jennifer Winget and Karan Wahi in the main roles, the series explores how the family copes with this ordeal. Premiering on February 12, 2024, viewers will witness the Raisinghani family’s journey as they confront difficult decisions and conflicts while trying to uphold their values.

House of Ninjas

Platform: Netflix

Date: 15th February

Centred around the Tawara family, the sole remaining ninja clan.“House of Ninjas” immerses viewers in a captivating Japanese drama. Haunted by a troubled past, this unconventional family finds themselves thrust back into the clandestine world of shadowy missions as they confront a crisis of unprecedented proportions threatening to plunge Japan into chaos. Despite their efforts to leave their ninja legacy behind, the Tawara family is compelled to once again unleash their hidden skills to safeguard their nation from impending doom. As they navigate through a web of secrets and challenges, the fate of Japan hangs precariously in the balance, testing the bonds of family and the resilience of tradition in the face of adversity.

Players

Platform: Netflix

Date: 14th February

“Players” is a rom-com centred around Mack, a New York sportswriter, and her best friend Adam, who excel at orchestrating hook-up schemes. Their dynamic shifts when Mack meets Nick, a correspondent, prompting her to confront a pivotal decision: continue her casual escapades or pursue a deeper connection. Gina Rodriguez portrays Mack, a journalist embarking on an unexpected emotional journey. Damon Wayans Jr. stars as Adam, Mack’s longtime friend and co-conspirator in their hookup endeavours. Their carefully constructed world is disrupted when Mack encounters Nick, played by Tom Ellis, leading her to grapple with the choice between love and familiarity. “Players” explores themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery as Mack navigates the blurred lines between romance and casual encounters.

Scammy Boys

Platform: Zee5

Date: 16th February

Directed by Rahhat Kazmi Films and Directed by Shoaib Nikash Shah, “Scammy Boys” follows the gripping tale of best friends Pankaj and Piyush as they chase wealth and fame through scams. Their lives take a perilous turn when they cross paths with corrupt policeman Joshi, thrusting them into the dangerous world of a drug cartel. As they fight to break free, they’re trapped in a web of deceit and danger. Starring Ashmit Patel, Rudra Soni, Ayushman Saxena, Roopa Choulagain, and Rajiv Rana, this thrilling ride promises suspense, action, and the test of true friendship. Don’t miss the adrenaline-pumping twists in “Scammy Boys”. Watch it on Zee5 from February 16th.

Love is Blind Season 6

Platform: Netflix

Date: 14th February

The highly anticipated sequel of ‘Love is Blind’ is here, featuring a new group of singles from Charlotte, North Carolina, diving into blind dates to find genuine connections. Without judging based on appearances, they form emotional bonds before deciding to get engaged. Transitioning to real-world living, they face challenges testing their relationships. Witness these hopeful journeys of singles that explore modern dating dynamics and the pursuit of authentic connections.

New Delhi, 16th February 2024: Noise, India’s leading smartwatch and connected lifestyle brand, adds a splash of vibrancy to users’ transformative journey by bringing two stunning colour variants: Rose Gold and Sunlit Gold of its flagship smart ring, Luna Ring. As spring approaches, these fascinating colours offer consumers more lifestyle choices alongside complementing the fresh looks of the upcoming season and making it an ideal gifting choice as well. Especially with Rose Gold complementing the Pantone Colour of the Year 2024, Peach Fuzz, it is here to offer a new trendsetting style. Noise continues to redefine the boundaries of wearable tech with Luna Ring’s fusion of cutting-edge technology and timeless elegance. It offers users a transformative ally in their journey towards holistic well-being. The product is available for purchase on gonoise.com at a price of INR 19,999.

These new colours allow users to express their unique style preferences with the fresh tone of the season. Whether it is monitoring health metrics, enhancing daily cognitive performance, or showcasing one’s style quotient, the new Luna Ring variants are poised to become an indispensable springtime splendor and choice. It fosters cognitive functioning by delivering across three core metrics – Sleep, Readiness, and Activity and aims to provide insights that facilitate a transformative user health span.

At the heart of the Luna Ring lies a dedication to empowering users with actionable insights and unparalleled comfort. Engineered to feel like a second skin, its ultra-lightweight design ensures a comfortable fit for every wearer. Tracking more than 70 metrics, the advanced sensors, including Infrared Photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors and Skin Temperature sensors, deliver precise health tracking capabilities while personalized nudges provide real-time guidance towards healthier choices. Besides the existing colours including Lunar Black, Midnight Black, and Stardust Silver, customers are urged to embrace the essence of spring with the new Luna Rose Gold, and Luna Sunlit Gold. It is about time we upgrade our style quotient and prioritise our well-being together.

Let the Luna Ring’s fresh colours be your go-to accessory this spring, and ace the game of gifting while transforming your and your loved ones’ lifestyle.

16/02/2024: The Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) organized a three-day International Chemical Engineering Conference on Energy, Environment, and Sustainability (ICECEES-2024) from February 15-17, 2024. This was to commemorate 60 years of the Institute’s establishment. The theme of the conference included all major domains of Chemical Engineering, such as Circular Economy, Sustainable and Renewable Energy, Green Processes, and Transfer Processes and Computational Modeling. The conference intended to provide a platform for the exchange of ideas among people working at different levels in academia and industries. Faculty members, scientists, persons from industries and other government agencies, research scholars, students, etc., participated in the conference.

The Department of Chemical Engineering was established in 1963 with an undergraduate program in Chemical Engineering. The department grew over the years and set very high standards in teaching and cutting-edge research. Over the years, the department has supported the local chemical and process industries. The department currently has 25 faculty members and over 500 students. The Department also has high-end analytical instruments like BET surface area analyzer, LCMS, HPLC, UV spectrometer, FTIR analyzer, rheometer, micro-PIV, high-speed camera, Raman spectroscopy, etc. The department focuses research work in the broad areas of chemical engineering, such as liquid and solid waste management, green catalysis, sustainable energy, energy storage, process design and intensification, process modelling and simulation, drug delivery, transport and separation processes, process safety, CO2 capture and utilization, and biochemical and bioprocess engineering. The department runs a Center of Excellence in Petrochemicals sponsored by the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, and the Government of India.

Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee (Patron) graced the event along with Chief Guest Ms Vartika Shukla, CMD, EIL and Prof. Shishir Sinha, DG, CIPET (Co-Patron). Notable eminent speakers included Prof. Shizhang Qiao, The University of Adelaide, Australia, Prof. Kumar Patchigolla, Teesside University, UK, Prof. Sophie Hermans, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium; Prof. Luís Miguel Madeira, The University of Porto, Portugal, Dr. D.K. Chandraker, BARC and HBNI, Mumbai, Dr. Thallada Bhaskar, CSIR-IIP, Dehradun, Prof. Sirshendu De, IIT Kharagpur, Prof. Peter Englezos, The University of British Columbia, Canada, Prof. Nagu Daraboina, The University of Tulsa, USA, Prof. Shijun N. Raveendran, The University of Amsterdam, Netherlands, Prof Panagiota Angeli, University College London, UK, Prof. Ju Dong Lee, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, South Korea, Dr. Syed G. Dastager, CSIR-NCL, Pune, and Prof. Hem Raj Pant, Tribhuvan University, Nepal.

Commenting on the conference’s motif, Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, avers, “ICECEES provides a forum for all the eminent participants to showcase their research and address the emerging future challenges pertaining to the theme of the conference. The participants will have the opportunity to present their recent research findings on an extended spectrum of conference topics and be informed about new challenges, future trends, and technological innovations on sustainable processes following the principles of circular economy.”

Chief Guest Ms Vartika Shukla, Chairman & Managing Director at Engineers India Limited (EIL), New Delhi, said, “The Conference will provide an opportunity to the students, researchers, scientists and stakeholders to develop new thoughts in the areas of sustainable energy and environment which is the need of the hour. Efforts are to be made to utilize the sustainable, green and renewable resources to make the society carbon free..

New Delhi, February 16, 2024: In a grand celebration of diversity and creativity in contemporary arts and literature, IILM University’s two-day Literature Festival brought together eminent authors, readers, and thinkers for engaging sessions, captivating performances, and insightful discussions.

Based on the theme, ‘’Identity Narratives: Exploring Diversity in Contemporary Literature,” the remarkable event was held on February 8th and 9th, 2024 and was organised by the School of Liberal Arts at IILM University.

The festival commenced with an inaugural speech by Ms. Somya Sharma, Assistant Professor of Journalism and Mass Communication, followed by a warm Welcome Address by Prof (Dr.) Taruna Gautam, Vice Chancellor of the University. The day unfolded with a captivating musical performance by students, enabling a joyful celebration environment.

A key highlight of the day was the ‘Artist Spotlight’ session featuring prominent musician and singer Ms. Vidya Shah. Sharing insights into her craft, Ms. Shah emphasised the significance of patience and repetition in mastering any art form.

She also discussed the current state of national funding for artists and the blurred line between entertainment and culture.

The insightful discussion was followed by the ‘Colorful Canvas Challenge,’ in which students expressed their interpretations of identity via visual art mediums. The comprehensive competition fostered harmony, understanding and promoted dialogue and expression.

In addition, students exhibited their creativity in the ‘Cathartic: Expressions of Art’ competition, designing book covers inspired by literary classics. Their innovative interpretations enchanted the audience and highlighted the potential of visual storytelling in literature.

The festival continued with enthralling performances by students, including classical dance and musical renditions.

A panel discussion featuring distinguished personalities such as Mr. Suhail Mathur (Author and Co-Founder of The Book Bakers), Mr. Sharif D Rangekar (Author and Director of Rainbow Film Festival), and Ms. Rachana Yadav (Managing Director of Hans Magazine) delved into identity and literature, emphasising the importance of diverse voices in contemporary literary discourse.

The panel also underlined the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in representing themselves and the struggles of Indian authors in the literary world.

”The IILM University’s Literature Festival served as a unique platform to promote inclusivity with thought-provoking sessions, stunning performances, and expansive discussions. Bringing together preeminent individuals from diverse backgrounds and converging ideas, passions and perspectives, the event reflected the transformative potential of creativity,” said Aditi Gupta, Assistant Professor- English Literature.

Post the thought-provoking session, noted author and academician Dr. Devapriya Roy deciphered the intricate connection between identity and narrative. She also underscored the significance of graphic novels and comics as effective mediums for communicating powerful stories to young people.

The Literature Festival culminated with an extensive book-reading session by celebrated author Dr. Nandini Sen on her book, “The Second Wife and Other Stories.” Her presentation offered the audience profound insights into the themes of feminism and societal observation.