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Hyderabad, December 25, 2023…… Hyderabad-based NGO Bhagwan Mahavir Jain Relief Foundation Trust (BMJRFT) achieves a record 13.72 lakh Dialysis and creates yet another world record for performing the most dialysis by a Social Organisation. It crossed the one million dialysis milestone on 14th October 2021 and is now 13, 72,798.

Other achievements at a glance include giving 9,64, 154 Erythropoietin Injections; Iron Injections 5,22,120; and Ocarnit Injections 3,49,107 at subsided prices during this 14-year journey. It has supported 6,986 patients so far. The patients supported with medicines are 8,812.

To mark the occasion, it has today replaced 24 Dialysis Machines at Mahavir Hospital & Research Centre and 12 Dialysis Machines at Ramdevrao Hospital, Kukatpally with the most advanced dialysis machines. These dialysis machines are meant for subsidised dialysis for patients, who need to pay just Rs 300/- as against Rs 1200/- to 3000/- charged in corporate hospitals.

These new machines were donated by philatelists. They cost on the whole Rs 2.52 crore to the donors.

The trust provides dialysis services to more than 1300 patients in the twin cities every month. As of November 2023, the trust has done 1372798 Dialysis sessions. And saved well over INR 109 crore for the patients.

It has installed 215 machines at various Mahavir dialysis centres during the past 14 years.

In a function held on Sunday morning at Mahavir Hospital & Research Centre, A C Guards, Masab Tank, Hyderabad rededication of the 36 machines was done.

The function was graced by PC Parakh, Chairman of BMJRFT and Guests of Honor Shri Mahender Ranka, Chairman – of Mahavir Hospital; Shri Gautam Pokarna Chairman – of Pokarna Group; Shri Shiv Prakash Bansal Philanthropist Industrialist and Shri Mahender Choradia Philanthropist & Industrialist

Sixteen Trustees Gautam Chand Chordia, Satish Khivsara, Inder Chand Jain, RikabParak, Rajender KumarDugur, Swaroop Chand Kothari, Ashok Kothari, Sunil Pahade, Suresh Surana, Vinod Kimtee, Shanti Bhai Shah, Prashant Shrimal, Hanumanmal Nakhat, Mahavir Kumar Patny, Sushil Kapadia graced the function

Speaking on the occasion PC Parakh said two dialysis centres are newly renovated with the most modern and technically advanced machines. Health is one of the pillars of the human race. According to one survey, we are more backward than Bangladesh and Pakistan in providing quality health care services at affordable cost. There are three models of healthcare delivery—Government, Corporate and Trust hospitals like ours, he said. While government hospitals are few and always lack resources. Corporations are unaffordable. Non-profit trust hospitals are the saving grace, he said

PC Parakh added that they have been providing dialysis at Rs 300/- for the past 14 years. Though costs have gone up, they have not increased the price.

Inderchand Jain, one of the Trustees said kidney failure puts the entire family in debt. A kidney patient who needs dialysis needs to shell anywhere in the range of Rs 50,000/- to rupees one lakh every month. It is a huge burden on the breadwinner of the family. We have begun our journey with six patients with six dialysis machines we have reached today doing 600 dialysis a day.

Besides subsidized dialysis, BMJRFT also provides injections of Erythropoietin, Iron Sucrose, Levocarnitine and Dialysis kits at highly concessional prices

The Trust founded by 16 like-minded Jain friends of the city in the year 2009 has been offering Dialysis at Rs 300/as against Rs 1200/- to 3000/- charged in Corporate Hospitals. What was started 14 years ago has now become a very big humanitarian service being talked about across the world. It has 215 dialysis machines doing close to 600 dialysis sessions every day.

The service is offered at 10 different locations and 3 associate hospitals, all in Hyderabad, except two in Aler & Jadcharla. It has reduced the financial burden on the patients. The trust was founded to provide affordable health care to financially weak members of society irrespective of caste and creed.

The locations where subsidized dialysis is offered include 01. King Kothi District Hospital, King Kothi; 02. Mahavir Hospital, AC Guards Masabtank; 3. Ramdev Rao Hospital, Kukkatpally; 4. Gurunanak Medical Centre, Gurudwara, Secunderabad; 5. Zoi Hospital, Attapur; 6. Challa Hospital, Ameerpet; 7. Indo US Hospital, Malakpet; 8. Quthbullapur, Suchitra 9. Community Health Center, Aler, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri.Dist, 10. Area Hospital, Jadcharla. The trust is headed by Mr P.C. Parakh as Chairman.

The 16 friends include Gautam Chand Chordia, Satish Khivsara, Inder Chand Jain, Rikab Parak, Rajender Kumar Dugur, Swaroop Chand Kothari, Ashok Kothari, Sunil Pahade, Suresh Surana, Vinod Kimtee, Shanti Bhai Shah, Prashant Shrimal, Hanumanmal Nakhat, Mahavir Kumar Patny, Sushil Kapadia. Their humanitarian service like never before is impacting society very positively

Chennai, December 21, 2023: The Chennai Runners, a not-for-profit organization run by passionate runner-volunteers since 2006, and Freshworks Inc. (NASDAQ: FRSH), the global software as a service company from Chennai, announced the 12th edition of the Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024, scheduled to be held on Saturday, 6th January 2024. This year the marathon is expected to witness the participation of over 22,000 runners including competitors, corporate honchos, and thousands of running enthusiasts.

The upcoming Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners, will be certified by AIMS (The Association of International Marathons and Distance Races), a worldwide association of the organizers of long-distance road running races. Chennai Marathon 2024 is recognized by Abbott World Marathon Majors as a qualifier event.

Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024, powered by Chennai Runners, the largest running event in Chennai and the second-largest marathon in India, will comprise four events for men and women including, a Full Marathon (42.195 Km) – the flagship race of the event, the Perfect 20 Miler (32.186 Km), the Half Marathon (21.097 Km) and the 10 Km Run.

This year the Freshworks Chennai Marathon will see the participation of over 35% women runners. The marathon will have participation from visual impaired runners, blade runners, and wheelchair runners.

Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024, powered by Chennai Runners is all set to rock the city limits as the full marathon is set to be flagged off at the iconic Napier Bridge, Marina Beach, and run through the scenic beach route towards the lighthouse and later it will pass through Madhya Kailash, Tidel Park and to ECR. Like the previous edition, this year’s marathon will also have two start points, Napier Bridge and Elliot’s Beach.

Full Marathon (42.195 Km) the Perfect 20 Miler (32.186 Km) and the 10 Km Run will start from Napier Bridge while Elliot’s Beach will be the starting point of the Half Marathon (21.097 Km). The Indian Maritime University will be the finish point for the full marathon, 20 miler, and the half marathon while the CPT IPL Ground will be the finish point for the 10-kilometer run.

Like the previous edition, this year the Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners seeks to increase awareness of Type 1 diabetics and intends to raise funds for people with insulin needs thereby supporting monthly needs towards their insulin expenses.

Partners

Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners will bring together a host of Chennai-based brands as partners. Baashyaam as the Lifestyle Partner, Sundaram Finance Group as the Silver Partner, Chennai Metro Rail Corporation will be the Metro Partner, Apollo Hospitals will be the Medical Partner, CR Volunteers will be the First Responders, Limca Sportz is the Hydration Partner and Unived is the Marathon Fuelling partner.

The Marathon is also thankful for the support of the Greater Chennai Police Commissioner, Greater Chennai Traffic Police, Tambaram Commissionerate, TNAA, the People of Chennai, Cand the vibrant running community of Chennai, and the Greater Chennai Corporation.

Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 will be a zero-waste marathon and has roped in Urbaser Sumeet as a partner for recycling and waste audits.

Mr. V P Senthil Kumar, Race Director, Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners said, “Chennai Runners are thrilled to announce the 12th edition of our iconic event, Freshworks Chennai Marathon powered by Chennai Runners. Building upon the resounding success of the previous edition we are gearing up for an even more exhilarating experience that promises to leave an indelible mark on the city and the world at large.

Over the years, the event has grown in stature and earned its place among the top marathons organized in the country. The recent recognition from the Abbott World Marathon Majors is a testament This prestigious designation allows athletes who achieve the Automatic Qualifying Time for their respective age groups to secure an immediate invitation to the 2024 Abbott WMM Wanda Age Group World Championships”.

Mr. Girish Mathrubhootham, Founder and CEO, Freshworks said, “Freshworks is proud to be associated with the iconic Chennai Marathon. Running throught the scenic landmarks of the city, together with a huge number of athletes from all over the world is going to be a special feeling for all of us at Freshworks. We want everyone to take up fitness as a daily agenda and training for a marathon is the best way one can start.”

National, December 21st, 2023: Bhimthadi Jatra, founded by Sunanda Tai Pawar, celebrates its 17th year, with a captivating rural extravaganza that offers a unique and vibrant experience for visitors from all walks of life. Held annually in Pune, this extraordinary carnival seamlessly blends culture, tradition, skills, and entertainment, making it a must-visit.

With over 400,000 visitors every year, the Jatra welcomes Punekars, Mumbaikars, and art enthusiasts from neighboring cities. There is a beautiful music anthem attached to Bhimthadi this year with an aim to attract the younger generation to embrace the cultural diversity, bridging the gap between the rural and urban culture at Bhimthadi Jatra.

The 17th year is a platform empowering women to showcase their skills in handicrafts, textiles, and food preparation, contributing to their communities.

In a world where the allure of preserving and revelling in cultural heritage is irresistible, Bhimthadi Jatra emerges as a distinctive and authentic experience that beckons exploration. This annual spectacle, nestled in the heart of Maharashtra, not only showcases the region’s agricultural splendour but also unfolds as a vibrant stage for local artisans, craftsmen, and farmers to showcase their talents and products.

Bhimthadi Jatra has attracted eager visitors who are interested in buying products from rural and tribal women around India. The handicrafts at Bhimthadi are made of materials like khun, neem wood, and bamboo. Specially abled children from NGOs make coasters, warli paintings, and pen holders which are sold at the Jatra. She can give valuable input on the things showcased at the event. The home decor items are upcycled and brought to the event. Furniture, kitchenware, and other items made from neem wood and bamboo are also available.

Since its inception, Bhimthadi Jatra has attracted eager visitors who anticipate the delectable food served annually at the fair. The event also boasts repeat customers who return each year to patronize specific food stalls. Millets have been a staple in our diet for generations and have seen a resurgence in popularity recently. Attendees at Bhimthadi Jatra will have the opportunity to sample local Maharashtrian cuisine at various food stalls. Bhimthadi Jatra also provides support to entrepreneurs seeking certification for their food products and assists with proper branding and packaging strategies for their goods.

Continuing its ongoing approach towards embracing conscious choices and clothing, sustainable fashion wear brands like The Kishkinda Trust, Viva La Vida India and Love for the Loom are going to be participating in Bhimthadi Jatra’s 17th year exhibition.

Bhimthadi Jatra itself as an event follows sustainable practices, encouraging and educating the people who are participating and those attending.

– There is a farmers market where you can purchase organically produced products from direct contact.

– There is a policy for non-plastic, non thermocol plates being used, etc.

– The flexes used at the event for advertising purposes are all sent for recycling, ensuring zero wastage at the event.

– Plastic water bottles are not allowed at the event.

– Zero food wastage is ensured as well.

Date: December 21st – December 25th, 2023

Time: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Venue: Agricultural College Ground, Shivaji Nagar, Pune

Kolkata, 21st December 2023: The Institute of Internal Auditors India – Calcutta Chapter (IIAI Calcutta Chapter) was the first chapter established in 1974 in India and the year 2023-24 is the Golden Jubilee year for the Chapter. The chapter was founded by a group of internal audit professionals who recognized the need for a professional organization to promote the development of the internal auditing profession in Eastern India.

The Chapter headquartered at Kolkata has 3 audit clubs at Bhubaneswar, Guwahati and Jamshedpur under its arm. Presently, the chapter has more than 400 active members – Corporate and individuals including Big4 accounting & auditing firms.

The Chapter celebrated its’ Golden Jubilee on Saturday 16th December 2023 at Hotel Taj Vivanta, Kolkata under the leadership of the President of the Chapter Mr. Subhash Saraf, a practicing CA over four decades. Mr Sidheshwar Bhalla, National President of the Institute of Internal Auditors India gave the inaugural address and Mr. Subrata Bagchi (former partner of Deloitte India) was Chief Guest and he spoke on the evolution of Internal Audit function and its most importance in future. Mr Debashis Ghosh, National Secretary and Mr Abin Mukhopadhayay, Secretary of the Chapter were also the part of the dais and gave their valuable views. The celebration was attended by around 200 professionals which included corporate leaders from all across India as well as leaders from leading CA firms in Eastern India. All the Past Presidents of the Chapter were invited and they were felicitated by the chapter at the function for their leadership at the chapter.The chapter released a memorable souvenir on this occasion. The Chapter has lined up many events in this golden jubilee year.

The chapter has a strong track record of providing high-quality education, training, and advocacy for the profession. The chapter is also a valuable resource for internal auditors in Eastern India, providing them with a network of colleagues and support services.

In recognition of its contributions to the internal audit profession, the IIA Calcutta Chapter has received several awards from IIA India, including the “Chapter of the Year” award on multiple occasions

New Delhi, December 17, 2023: The Interfaith ‘Christmas Festival’ ” Kristu Mahotsav- 2024″ is a great initiative, which is not just about celebrating or exchanging gifts but is also about peace and harmony, with the motto “Include Everyone Exclude None”.

According to Justice C.T. Ravi Kumar, a Supreme Court judge and the chief guest of the event organized by the Chavara Cultural Centre, the festival emphasizes staying on Earth to find heaven here rather than searching elsewhere. The event was themed ‘Celebrating Diversity – Celebrating Bharat’ and took place at the Diocesan Community Centre, Ashok Place, Gol Dak Khana, Delhi.

The festival aimed at spreading joy among differently-abled children from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. The festivities were also live-streamed on YouTube. Justice C.T. Ravi Kumar, after inaugurating the event, was joined by prominent figures like Archbishop Anil Couto of Delhi, Archbishop Kuriakose Bharanikulangara of Faridabad, and Dr. Father Martin Mallath CMI, General Counselor for Education and Media, who addressed the audience.

The main celebrants, including Father Varghese Vallikkat, and Fr Norbert Herman SVD, shared their thoughts.

The festival showcased cultural programs in art, literature, and culture, bringing together Episcopal churches, various communities, and regional people in unity, mirroring the diversity in unity, akin to celebrating an Indian festival.

Special guests at the event included Lok Sabha Member Dr. Lorho S. Pfoze, Vice-Chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities K.K. Debu, and Sushil Goswami Ji Maharaj, National Coordinator of the Indian Multi-Faith Parliament. The event also witnessed the presence of Swami Chandra Dev Ji, Founder Chairman of the Global Sant Society, Sufi Ajmal Nizami, Trustee of the Nizamuddin Dargah, Rabbi Ezekiel Isaac Malekar, Chief of the Delhi Jewish community, and Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok from CIHTS (Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies) in Varanasi, Sri. Vivek Muniji Maharaj, Mrs. Carmel Tripathi, Mrs A Dhanalakshmi, Joint Secretary DST.

Speaking about Christmas, Archbishop Anil Couto said, “Christmas conveys a message of peace, joy, hope, and love. We are celebrating this Christmas with the message of love and unity, connecting hearts and making it a festival for India.”

Dr. Fr. Roby Kannanchira CMI, Director Chavara Cultural Centre Delhi, organizer of the program, said , ” Christmas is the commemoration of the birth of Jesus- the prince of love who included everyone and excluded none. The light of selfless love of Christ will expel the darkness of hatred and jealousy from this world. Celebrating Christmas with differently abled children heals the wounded humanity.”

Advocate Dr. K.C. George praised the differently-abled children, extending Christmas greetings and expressing the hope that the festival would contribute to their health and education. He described it as a festival of hearts, aiming to spread brotherhood and goodwill in the country.

Father Martin Mallath, CMI, Chairman of the Chavara Cultural Centre, commented on the festival, calling it an initiative for interfaith dialogue, art, literature, and cultural discussions to promote peace and harmony in society. He likened it to the Christmas message of peace, joy, and hope, and anticipated that the festival would spread a positive message of unity among people in the country.

Bengaluru, 15th December 2023: Top 5 winners of the 17th Edition of Young Astronomer Talent Search (YATS) 2023 were felicitated by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Naveen Patnaik today at Pathani Samanta Planetarium( PSP) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Organized by Tata Steel in association with PSP operating under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Odisha, this edition of YATS saw the participation of more than 80,000 students from 30 districts in the State.

Present at the award ceremony were Shri Ashok Chandra Panda, Hon’ble Minister, Science & Technology, Public Enterprises, Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disability, Government of Odisha, Smt. Chithra Arumugam, IAS, Principal Secretary, Science and Technology, Dr. Yeddula Vijay, IAS, Joint Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Government of Odisha and Shri Chanakya Chaudhary, Vice President, Corporate Services, Tata Steel.

Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Naveen Patnaik said, “I congratulate all the students who participated in the activities organised as part of Young Astronomer Talent Search. My congratulations to the district toppers who are selected for the finals and the Top 20 winners. I am glad that over 80 thousand students from across 30 districts of our State are participating in this competition. My congratulations to Tata Steel and Pathani Samanta Planetarium for conducting this unique event successfully year after year, and I wish the programme the very best for its future editions.”

Shri Chanakya Chaudhary, Vice President, Corporate Services, Tata Steel, said, “The growing number of participants in each edition of YATS is a resounding testimony to its value and success, particularly among Odisha’s youth. The 2023 edition of YATS also comes on the heels of India’s most successful space mission yet — Chandrayaan-3 which added a lot more excitement among our young scientists. It is also very encouraging to see so many young minds turning their attention to astronomy and unchartered areas of space missions and technologies that will prove invaluable to India’s future. I am extremely happy to congratulate the winners of YATS 2023 and every single participant who made it such a grand success.”

The competition included an open quiz for students of classes 6 to 8, conducted physically in schools and a multiple-choice questions assessment for students of classes 9 and 10, conducted in schools and online. A total of 20 winners including the top 5, along with their teachers, will be taken on an exposure visit to one of the facilities of the Indian Space Research Organisation around June 2024, where they will have the opportunity to interact with ace space scientists of the country.”

Since its inception 17 years ago till date, more than 3,50,000 young science enthusiasts in Odisha have actively participated in YATS, which highlights the program’s enduring impact. Notably, 180 students have had the privilege of visiting various facilities of ISRO in India.

Mumbai, December 14, 2023: It was an enjoyable day at Growel’s 101 Mall as the Mall management arranged a lunch with engaging activities for retail associates to mark Retail Employees’ Day on December 12, 2023. The festive celebration was extended to encompass all the Retailers, Brands, and F&B partners, and outsourced staff operating in the mall.

On December 12, 2023, each retail employee/associate received a warm welcome at the decorated mall entry upon reporting to work. Mall leadership addressed all associates with words of encouragement and motivation, recognizing their hard work in delivering customer delight. Team-building activities infused with fun were organized for all retail associates to foster camaraderie and celebrate this special day.

The ‘Retail Employees’ Day’ is an annual movement initiated in 2011 by TRRAIN & RAI, observed on the 12th of December. This day is dedicated to spreading joy to retail employees who tirelessly serve and delight customers every other day.

Speaking about employee well-being, Gerald Mathew, General Manager, Growel’s 101 Mall, said, “Our commitment to fostering a positive and enjoyable work environment is reflected in today’s festivities, where we come together as a family to appreciate the efforts of those who tirelessly serve our customers. At Growel’s 101 Mall, we not only value our associates’ dedication on Retail Employees’ Day but also strive to prioritise their well-being year-round. We believe that happy employees contribute to the success and vibrancy of our mall. Here’s to a day of celebration, gratitude, and a shared commitment to making Growel’s 101 Mall an even more delightful place to work and shop.”

A recreational zone has been established for retail associates to use their break time for relaxation and socializing with co-workers. The recreation zone offers indoor activities such as foosball, carrom, chess, and various board games, providing associates with an enjoyable time with their colleagues. Additionally, festivities like Diwali, Christmas, and Mall Anniversary are celebrated with retail associates, and special events like cricket tournaments and talent hunts are regularly conducted throughout the year to uplift the spirits of retail associates.

New Delhi, 14 December: Pahle India Foundation (PIF) appeals to the ‘GOM on Online Gaming’ ahead of its 1st meeting, to review existing Lottery Regulations as well. Pahle India Foundation (PIF) welcomes the Government of India’s decision to constitute a Group of Ministers (GOM) to review the regulatory framework for the Online Gaming Industry.

As the GoM meets for its first meeting on the 15th Dec under the chairmanship of the Hon’ble Union Home Minister, PIF would like to appeal to the members of the GoM to also review the existing regulations on ‘Lottery’ and bring necessary reforms.

PIF has recently concluded a study titled ‘Lottery in India – A Study on Regulatory Framework and Potential for Social Funding’ where it has reviewed the existing regulations on Lottery in the country and has identified major gaps. PIF recommends an urgent review of the 25-year-old regulation in light of the increased internet penetration in India in the last few decades, and the absence of player protection and minimum age criterion in the existing rules. The offshore online lotteries operating outside the jurisdiction of the Indian regulatory apparatus pose significant challenges and demand urgent attention.

PIF has also done a comprehensive review of the operational processes and the financial models followed by the Indian States where a lottery is currently allowed and operational. In such states also, there is an urgent need for reforms to bring transparency using technology, and adopt best practices to ensure child safety and player protection.

PIF has also reviewed lottery ecosystems in countries like the UK and explored the sector’s potential for social funding in India. Pahle India Foundation is a New Delhi-based economic think tank founded by Dr Rajiv Kumar in 2013. Its motto is ‘Putting India First to Make India First’. PIF has done in-depth research on ‘Online Gaming’ as well as ‘Lottery’. Its reports ‘A Regulatory Framework for the Online Gaming Sector’ and ‘Lottery in India.

Hyderabad, December 14, 2023….We live in a country where touching the earth is considered a good omen. Be it a sport like Kabaddi, an artist performing on a stage, a farmer who cultivates the land, touching the earth is practiced from ages. It is an age-old practice in our country. But, we don’t pay much attention to soil health. Instead, a lot of attention is given to producers and production said Dr Sagar Hanuman Singh, DG, NIPHM (National Institute of Plant Health Management, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt of India while addressing a gathering at the opening of Bio-Agri conference at HICC, Madhapur on Wednesday.

He was the Chief Guest at the Bio-Agri 2023, a two-day conference on Bio-Agri Industry. 300 delegates from across India and the world are participating in the conference.

The theme for Bio Agri 2023 is “BioAg by 2030 – Miles To Go– Billions to Reach”. BIPA International Journal of Biological Agriculture was launched during the conference. An exhibition was also inaugurated along with the conference and several companies exhibited their products.

Soil gives us so much. In the food pyramid, we must start with soil. We have been abusing soil for the past 70 years with chemical fertilizers due to pressure to feed the rising population. As a result, the soil is now contaminated. It has lost its vigor, vitality, and fertility. This is where soil regeneration has arisen. So keep an eye on deteriorating soil health. Government of India schemes emphasize on soil health, in turn, plant health and human health, he added. Help soil regain its original blissful state, emphasised, Dr Sagar Hanuman Singh, DG, NIPHM

We at NIPHM train farmers how to produce Bio-fertilisers using local resources without using chemicals and technology. Associations like BIPA must discourage fly-by-night operators. More emphasis must be on quality rather than on cheap cost which these fly-by-night operators offer.

In our testing, we found that quite a significant number of Biological products and bio-pesticides do not meet standards. Quite a lot of products contain chemical pesticides, said Dr Hanuman Singh.

Dr. SK Malhotra, Project Director of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Directorate of Knowledge Management in Agriculture (DKMA-ICAR) delivered the Bio Agri Conference address. He said the Observers Research Foundation put India in first place compared to G-20 countries in climate-smart agriculture.

He maintained that our production levels rose despite hiccups due to climate change-related problems. The country has adopted climate-resilient agriculture. India now needs to bring back nature-positive agriculture. The Pandemic taught us many lessons. We should now scale up natural-positive food systems that would simultaneously promote crop, soil, and human health, he said.

The good news is that Microbial Bio Stimulants can be registered now. Biostimulant products which are now being regulated under new Gazette Notification guidelines in India he announced

Further, he said by 2047, when India becomes 100 years of being Independent, the government of India will set an agenda to become a global powerhouse for the Food System.

Dr Praveen Rao, Former Vice Chancellor of Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU) spoke about soil health and its importance. We have forgotten 5 Cs. One C is Capability. Without knowing what the soil is capable of producing we are cultivating he said. The second C is the condition of Soil, we should know what best management practices to be adopted. Third C is Capital, the natural capital of soil.

The fourth C is Connectivity and the fifth C is Codification, which talks about the favourable policies, education, governance, etc. Soil health will decide plant health which in turn decides animal health, which subsequently decides ecology health that will have an impact on planet health. In the 1960s fertilizers and water were key areas and now it is soil health he was served.

Dr. KRK Reddy, President of Bio Agri Input Producers Association (BIPA), a 20 years old, non profit body said 90 companies are supporting BIPA

Dr D. R. Venkatesh, Secretary of BIPA gave a report of activities undertaken during the last year. He mentioned that BIPA is the oldest Bio-Agri industry body in the world. He shared that BIPA would be moving into their own office premises next year which was acquired at an investment of Rs 40 lakhs. Govt of Telangana has allocated space on 35 years lease it was informed.

Some of the topics to be addressed during the two-day conference include Bio-abling the future –India opportunity; Global business opportunities in Biologicals, bio-nutrition; Ag-biologicals: opportunities beyond agriculture, emerging technologies and business opportunities, investment opportunities in India, and many others.

Dancer-Choreographer Geeta Chandran presented ‘SAMAGATI’, a power-packed performance of cherished choreographies by the NATYA VRIKSHA DANCE COLLECTIVE, on Monday, December 11th, 2023 at the Chinmaya Mission Auditorium, in New Delhi.

‘SAMAGATI’ is a Sanskrit word that means “coming together,” “union,” and “progressing together.” In her choreographies for SAMAGATI, Geeta Chandran explored these themes, as well as the four Purusharth of the Sanatana: Dharma, Artha, Kaama and Moksha.

The performance opened with a Nritya Stuti, a tribute to Shiva. In the lyrics, Shiva was seen as the culmination of the five elements of creation. The modern Dharma according to Geeta is to pay attention to the environment and prevent catastrophic climatic changes from destroying life as we know it.

Embellishing the show were stupendous performances delivered by Radhika Kathal, Madhura Bhrushundi, Shruta Gopalan, Sowmya Laxmi Narayanan, Anandita Narayanan and Yadavi Shakdher-Menon alongside Geeta.

Artha, or Hard Work and its Fruits, was essayed through the abstract dance of a Jatiswaram, where the choreography portrayed diligence, labor and creativity. The resonating image of infinity that the choreography embraced, made a lasting impact on all viewers.

The value of Kaama was interpreted by Geeta Chandran through a composition of Muthuswami Dikshithar that praises Maaye, who removes the curtain of ignorance from our eyes. Adding her choreographic element, Geeta interprets it as a plea to free ourselves of the tentacles of illusion. To emphasize on this philosophy she remarks, “SAMAGATI is an invitation to transcend the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. It is a dance of unity, a symphony of souls, and a celebration of the divine spark within each of us. I see SAMAGATI as a wake-up call, an urgent plea to heed the cries of our planet. It is a dance of harmony with nature, a reminder of our interconnectedness, and a call to action for a sustainable future.”

Moksha was interpreted as a celebration where God and humankind enter a cosmic dance to realize the ultimate truth and seek release from the bonds of Dharma, Artha and Kaama.

‘SAMAGATI’ left the audiences awestruck with mesmerizing performances and more so with the deeper meaning adhered to them.