Framework for the implementation of AI with an international bureau check is necessary, UNESCO-MGIEP Director Dr. Anantha Duraiappah

Framework for the implementation

Hyderabad, 2nd September 2023 The Centenary Educators Conference at the Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet kicked in today with more than 700 prominent educators and dynamic thought leaders, and experts from various disciplines within the educational sphere as they chart a brilliant unparalleled pedagogical course. The three-day conference that began today at the Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet, is intended to provide direction in the further development of The Hyderabad Public Schools to becoming global institutions of educational excellence. The Chief Guest, Mr. Syed Akbaruddin, Former permanent representative of India to the United Nations and Dean of Kautilya School of Public Policy and The Guest of Honour, Smt. V. Karuna, I.A.S. Secretary to Government Education Department, Govt of Telangana, Chairperson, HPS- B.O.G and addressed the august gathering. Prof. Dr. Anantha Durraiappah, Director, UNESCO – MGIEP, the first UNESCO category 1 Institute of Education in the Asia Pacific was the Keynote Speaker at the event. The conference also intends to enhance teaching methodologies, fostering innovation, promote collaborative learning environments, and chart a roadmap for the future of education and upskilling of teachers.

The Chief Guest Mr. Syed Akbaruddin, Former permanent representative of India to the United Nations and Dean of Kautilya School of Public Policy said, “We are in an era of education being transformed, more than in any time our living memory. AI and ChatGPT are shaping up classrooms. These are tempting tools, but don’t envisage robots will teach you quantum physics or values. Teachers will be the repositories of values. Let’s not ignore the concerns: 1. Instead of mastering foundation skills will AI not lead to muscle atrophy of their neural learning process? 2. Will students lose their natural ability to write? Look at technology and beyond through its thoughtful applications, what it means and for humans collectively. Let technology augment humanity but does not overshadow it.”

In his keynote address, Prof. Dr. Anantha Duraiappah – Director, UNESCO MGIEP said, “Globally, 70% of kids at the age of 10 cannot read. The other major problem is mental health. There must be a quantum of social and emotional resilience. Each child has some form of learning difference. Personalized learning fundamental to UNESCO Article 26 & SDG4 has a Whole Brain approach C.A.S. E (Cognitive – working memory and executive function | Academic | Social and emotional competency as a non-academic integrated skill) – necessary condition for human flourishing. Framework for the implementation of AI for ethics and guidelines are necessary. Intergovernmental bureau on AI for education involving Government and multi-stakeholders, and even youth networks will oversee AI as a neural body. They will regulate and manage all the learning platforms. Selection of AI for different learning outcomes for generic learning; and AI for teaching should be a list AI identified, audited against ethical standards, and certified.”

The Guest of Honour, Smt. V. Karuna, I.A.S. Secretary to Government Education Department, Govt of Telangana, Chairperson, HPS- B.O.G said, “Teachers have the power to make difference in students’ lives. We need to make our children more and more relevant. The moral values have a critical role in the conflicting world. Education is also what you are as a person, how you are in your professional relationships, what responsibilities you carry as a citizen.”

The inaugural began with an invocation dance by the students followed by a plenary address by Mr. Gusti J Noria, The President of HPS Society who said “Education has evolved into a social experience, encompassing networking, passion exploration, and personality enhancement. Our teachers must embrace technology as a powerful tool for education in this digital era. Adapt. Our teachers must foster partnerships within and with other educational institutions, industries, and experts, culminating in a dynamic and pulsating learning ecosystem. Adopt a personalized learning approach, acknowledging that each student possesses unique strengths and passions. This approach ensures that we cater to individual needs and dreams.”

Dr. Skand Bali, Principal HPS-Begumpet in his welcome address said, “At the crux of our endeavours lies the profound theme of Shaping the Next Century of Educational Excellence. We stand at the precipice of moulding future generations into luminaries of knowledge, poised to illuminate the world with brilliance and carve an indelible legacy of educational distinction for the future. This educational conference will foster collaboration, comprehensive problem solving in modern education and empower students with intellectual acumen in an ever-evolving world.”

The keynote speech was followed by panel discussion on ‘Shaping Global Leaders for a rapidly Evolving World’ with panellists including Mr. Pankaj Bhalla – Manager, Little Scholars School, Kashipur; Mr. Mahesh Balakrishnan – Development and Recognition Manager, International Baccalaureate; Mr. Ranjan Mitter – Principal, Future Foundation School; Mr. Jacob C Keeley – Model United Nation Consultant for Michigan College Alliance; Dr. Sunitha Rao – Principal, DPS-Secunderabad; Ms. Kalpana Kannan – Teacher, Dept. of Physics, HPS-Begumpet and the moderator being Ms. Sonali Roy Chowdhury – Cambridge Co-ordinator, HPS-Begumpet.

Yet another panel discussion was held on ‘Emerging Technologies in Education and AI: Opportunities and Challenges’ with key panelists being Mr. Saad Sait – Executive Director, The Legacy School; Ms. Avnita Bir – Principal, RN Padar School; Mr. Varathkant E – VP, Content and innovation, Educational Initiatives; Mr. Malcolm Nicolson – Head of School, Sreenidhi International School; Ms. Neetha Reddy – Teacher, Dept. of Computer Science, HPS-Begumpet and Mr. Phani Kondepudi – Consultant for TS in Education, Chief Expert for IT at WorldSkills and Mentor at T-HUB, Angel Investor & HPS Alumni as moderator.

A series of workshops on topics ranging from leadership to emerging technologies in AI and education conducted by experts in the education domain.

The conclave is a step towards achieving the ‘School Vision 2050’, which is a road map for the further development of its four schools, over the next three decades. The school has earmarked an investment of 12-15 cr in the next 5 years for upskilling educators, teaching and learning support, and counselling as the Educator’s conclave is set to be an annual affair.

Following the inaugural day, the conclave is gearing up for rest of the two days featuring keynote addresses from renowned educators and visionaries, sharing their insights on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the education sector. These workshops will delve into effective classroom strategies, technology integration, and student engagement techniques. Engaging panel discussions will bring together educators, students, researchers, and policymakers to discuss critical topics.

Unique and Thoughtful Gift Ideas to Cherish Your Sibling Bond

Unique and Thoughtful Gift Ideas

Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG, a prominent German family-owned company, holds a global reputation for its exceptional cleaning technology. With a diverse range of products, including high-pressure cleaners, vacuum cleaners, and floor care equipment, Kärcher stands as the world leader in cleaning solutions.

In India, Kärcher’s subsidiary, Kärcher India, provides top-notch cleaning solutions and unwavering after-sales support. A gift from Kärcher on any festival, including Raksha Bandhan, is a promise of a clean and non-messy home!

A clean home is a haven, ensuring your family’s well-being.

Celebrate Raksha Bandhan with Kärcher India’s thoughtful cleaning solutions. Gift your loved ones powerful vacuum cleaners and efficient floor cleaners, embodying care and safety. Show your affection by providing a hygienic environment and promoting good health and togetherness. This Raksha Bandhan, express love through the gift of cleanliness with Kärcher because a tidy home means a protected family.

Rakhi Gifting Products:

ROBOT VACUUMS AND MOPS:

These products effortlessly handle floor cleaning, from hard floors to short-pile carpets. These intelligent devices excel at edge cleaning, deep cleaning, and navigating obstacles, including low thresholds and rug edges. The convenient app allows precise customization of cleaning tasks to suit your needs.

AIR TREATMENT:

It offers a powerful solution by efficiently filtering out pollen, fine dust, viruses, household dust, and odors from indoor air. This is especially valuable for allergy sufferers, ensuring fresh and clean air for improved well-being and noticeable benefits with each breath.

STEAM CLEANER SC 4 EasyFix:

It is a convenient cleaning solution with integrated storage compartments. Its EasyFix floor nozzle provides ergonomic cleaning with lamella technology, and the microfiber floor cloth attaches securely. It offers two-step steam regulation, versatile accessories for various surfaces, and effective chemical-free cleaning, eliminating bacteria on common household surfaces.

HANDHELD VACUUM CLEANER VC 4i CORDLESS PLUS (WHITE) *SEA:

It is a versatile, lightweight vacuum with a 2-in-1 design. It’s easy to carry, offers comfortable operation as both a handheld and handle vacuum, and features a high-speed motor for efficient dirt cleaning. With a bagless vortex system, HEPA filter, and a 60-minute runtime in Eco mode, it’s an ideal choice for whole-house cleaning.

Special Offer: Kärcher’s special offers for Raksha Bandhan, featuring discounts of up to 40%

SSVM Institutions Ignites Inspiration at the Transforming India Conclave 2023 Inauguration

SSVM Institutions Ignites

Coimbatore, 2nd September 2023 SSVM Institutions proudly inaugurated the second edition of the Transforming India Conclave 2023 at SSVM World School, a groundbreaking event dedicated to empowering and inspiring the youth of the nation. The inaugural day witnessed a grand ceremony and an awe-inspiring keynote address, setting the stage for a transformative experience.

The Transforming India Conclave 2023 was officially inaugurated by the esteemed Lieutenant General Ajai Kumar Singh, General Officer-Commanding-in-Chief Southern Command of the Indian Army, District Collector Kranthi Kumar Pati, I.A.S, Coimbatore District, and , Mr. Sonam Wangchuk, Indian Engineer, Innovator & Education Reformist: Founding Director of the Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh Semon, and infusing the occasion with gravitas and emphasizing the crucial role of India’s youth in steering the nation toward progress and prosperity.

The highlight of the day was the captivating keynote speaker, Mr. Sonam Wangchuk, Indian Engineer, Innovator & Education Reformist: Founding Director of the Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh Semon, whose thought-provoking address left the audience spellbound. Drawing from his remarkable journey, Wangchuck conveyed the importance of determination, innovation, and collective action, igniting a fire of motivation within the attendees.

The inaugural day of the conclave was an immersive experience that transported the students into a world of ideas, aspirations, and possibilities. Interactive discussions and engaging sessions exposed attendees to diverse perspectives that challenged their thinking and expanded their horizons.

District Collector Kranthi Kumar Pati, IAS, Coimbatore District, expressed his enthusiasm, stating,”It is an honor to witness the inauguration of the Transforming India Conclave 2023. This gathering of youth, their energy, and their potential is a testament to our nation’s bright future. Let us empower and support these young minds as they steer India toward progress and prosperity.”

Lieutenant Ajai Kumar, reflecting on the event, said,”Inaugurating the Transforming India Conclave 2023 has been a privilege. The youth are the driving force behind our nation’s journey, and their determination will shape our future. Let us continue to inspire and nurture their potential for a better India.”

SonamWangchuck shared his thoughts,”Today, we embarked on a transformative journey at the Transforming India Conclave 2023. Determination, innovation, and collective action are the keys to our nation’s progress. Let us carry this motivation forward and work together to create a brighter future for India.”

Dr. Manimekalai, Founder of SSVM Institutions, emphasized,”Today, at the inauguration of the Transforming India Conclave 2023, we embarked on a journey of empowerment and inspiration for the youth of our nation. The transformative power of knowledge, determination, and collective action was vividly demonstrated by our esteemed speakers. As we move forward, let us remember that this conclave is not just an event but a catalyst for the innovation and leadership that will shape India’s future. Together, we will illuminate the path to a brighter tomorrow.”

Looking ahead, SSVM’s Transforming India Conclave 2023 holds the promise of more enlightening sessions, empowering dialogues, and transformative experiences. The carefully curated lineup of speakers and activities is designed to further nurture the seeds of innovation and leadership that have been sown on this first day.

The journey has just begun, and the coming days are filled with anticipation for the insights and revelations that await. The SSVM’s Transforming India Conclave 2023 is poised to be a beacon of inspiration, guiding the youth toward a brighter tomorrow.

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (NHCC) and Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) elevates Prabin C.B as Director of Revenue Management

Prabin

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (NHCC) and Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) announced the appointment of Mr. Prabin C.B. as the Director of Revenue Management for the property. Prabin brings with him an illustrious experience spanning over two decades in the hospitality industry, particularly in Operations and Revenue Management.

In his present role, Prabin will be responsible for determining the strategic vision for the property by establishing goals and guiding the hotel’s commercial team in implementing tactical efforts to promote revenue growth and development. He will take an active role in analyzing real-time data and market reports to recommend revenue-generating strategies and demand forecasting to ensure that our guests receive exceptional value while ensuring the continued success of the property. He will also ensure right inventory allocation and pricing structure to support the overall business development while assisting all stakeholders in maximizing profit, maintaining the brand image of the property, and strengthening its positioning amidst competition. A revenue enthusiast, passionate & focused, Prabin is sure to strengthen the Hotel’s financial performance.

Expressing his enthusiasm at the announcement, Mr. Rubin Cherian, General Manager of Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and Hyderabad International Convention Centre, said “With Prabin taking over as the Director of Revenue Management, we have full confidence that he will play a pivotal role in optimizing the growth at the property. His extensive experience will undoubtedly help the property achieve and exceed the revenue objectives. “

ManipalCigna Health Insurance appointed as Lead Insurer for Karnataka to create insurance awareness under IRDAI’s State Insurance Plan

ManipalCigna Health Insurance

Karnataka-2nd September 2023 ManipalCigna Health Insurance, one of India’s fastest-growing standalone health insurance company has been appointed as lead health insurer under the State Insurance Awareness Plan in Karnataka by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) to expand insurance coverage and create health insurance awareness across the state.

As health insurance expert, ManipalCigna will play a pivotal role in raising awareness, ensuring that citizens of Karnataka have access to insurance coverage. The company’s rich expertise, extensive multi-distribution network and innovative approach to health insurance makes it the ideal choice to spread awareness about the importance of health insurance to the grass-root level in Karnataka.

Commenting on this strategic partnership, Prasun Sikdar, Managing Director and CEO, ManipalCigna Health Insurance, said, “We are honoured to take on the role of lead insurer for IRDAI’s state insurance plan in Karnataka. Our mission aligns perfectly with the goal of the state insurance plan – to provide easy and lifetime access to quality healthcare to every citizen. By leveraging Manipal Group’s local presence and expertise in healthcare delivery, we are committed to help make IRDAI’s visionary goal of ‘Insurance for All 2047’ a reality for all residents, thereby contributing to the overall financial well-being of the people of Karnataka.”

Sikdar further added, “Manipal Hospitals is renowned for its exceptional medical expertise in the state of Karnataka and is a trusted name in the region. With a comprehensive understanding of the region’s demographic and health profile, ManipalCigna Health Insurance in partnership with Manipal Hospitals we plan to conduct health camps and other on-ground awareness activities across the region to promote preventive health measures and drive insurance adoption.”

Health Insurance Avashyaka Logo with Kannada TaglineTo drive insurance penetration across the state and spread the message about the value of health insurance, ManipalCigna has also launched a new Kannada tagline “Health Insurance Avashyaka” (Health Insurance is a Necessity) to promote the fact that health and financial well-being isn’t complete without insurance. By assuming the lead insurer role, the company aims to amplify the importance of insurance by actively collaborating with government agencies, local healthcare providers, and community organizations to drive awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and enrollment drives. Further, by harnessing the power of strategic alliances, ManipalCigna is committed to making quality healthcare accessible and affordable to all segments of the population.

Commenting on the initiative, Sapna Desai, Chief Marketing Officer, and India Project Lead – State Insurance Plan for ManipalCigna Health Insurance, said “To cover rising medical expenses one thing in certain, ‘Health Insurance Avashyaka’. Thus, we at ManipalCigna, are proud to spearhead our efforts in creating insurance awareness and driving increased penetration in Karnataka. Through targeted strategic campaigns and community engagement, we are determined to bridge the gap in healthcare coverage, ensuring a healthier and more secure future for every individual in the state.”

As per industry reports, only a mere 32% of families have at least 1 member covered under health insurance in Karnataka. Additionally, non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and respiratory ailments are on the rise, posing significant health risks. Thus, given the current health insurance landscape in Karnataka especially in remote areas, ManipalCigna is committed to raise health insurance awareness in the region.

In the upcoming months, the company plans to conduct several awareness engagement activities to sensitize citizens on the importance of Insurance. By working in close partnership with the insurance industry, the insurance regulator IRDAI, and the government, ManipalCigna aims to bring more citizens under the ambit of insurance and ensure the benefits of insurance coverage reach each and every individual in the state, particularly in rural and underserved areas who are mostly vulnerable to the financial burdens of medical expenses.

Catalyzing Transformation: Zee Media’s India eMobility Conclave sets the stage for a Sustainable Electric Mobility Landscape

Catalyzing Transformation

Zee Media successfully hosted the India eMobility Conclave, emerging as a catalyst for transformative change, setting the stage for a landscape defined by sustainable electric mobility. It primarily focused on boosting awareness on EVs, policy advocacy, technology advancement and sustainable mobility setting a remarkable precedent for fostering sustainable mobility solutions and propelling India toward a cleaner, greener, and electrifying future.

The India eMobility conclave began with a keynote address and an engaging fireside chat with Sh. Nitin Gadkari – Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Govt. of India, shed light on the myriad opportunities presented by India’s EV adoption journey. This conclave served as a dynamic platform engaging esteemed stakeholders from diverse sectors towards insightful discussions and collectively envisioning a future where electric mobility took centre stage. It also included a one-on-one discussion with the Guest of Honour – Sh. Kailash Gahlot – Cabinet Minister (Home, Law, Transport, IT and AR), on ‘Delhi’s tryst with EV adoption’. It also comprised of insightful series of captivating panel discussions that delved into key topics, like:

1. The Rise of E-scooters and E-bikes: This session emphasised on insightful discussion on how electric two-wheelers are transforming urban mobility in India, offering sustainable solutions to congestion and pollution.

2. Electrifying Horizons: Navigating the Road Ahead for Electric Vehicles – Visionaries navigated the road ahead for electric vehicles, delving into market dynamics, consumer adoption, and strategies to overcome challenges.

3. Powering Progress: Battery Innovations in the EV Revolution: It deep-dived into the latest battery technologies and innovations driving the EV revolution, emphasizing the critical role of batteries in shaping the future of transportation.

4. E-Mobility 360: Exploring the Holistic Impacts of Electric Transportation – An exploration of the holistic impacts of electric transportation, considering environmental, social, and economic dimensions.

Attendees gained a comprehensive understanding the pivotal role EVs play in shaping a cleaner and greener future for transportation, providing a roadmap for policymakers to steer the nation toward an electric-powered future.

Speaking on the success of the grand conclave, Mona Jain, Chief Revenue Officer, Zee Media Corporation Limited said, “The India eMobility Conclave has transcended expectations, not only in terms of its success but also in the resonance it has found among stakeholders. This event has not only opened avenues for industry collaboration but has also showcased the immense revenue opportunities that lie within the realm of electric mobility. As we stride forward, we’re poised to unlock new horizons of growth and sustainability.”

Abhay Ojha, CEO, Zee Media Corporation Limited, said, “The India eMobility Conclave stands as a pivotal milestone in our journey towards a sustainable future. The event’s success echoes the collective commitment of Zee Media towards shaping a transportation ecosystem that resonates with the needs of the present while safeguarding the planet for generations to come. By bringing together brilliant minds and fostering crucial conversations, we have ignited a transformation that will reshape the way we move.”

Powered by BGAUSS, the Zee Media India eMobility Conclave was presented by SAERA and SERVOKO, e-mobility partners were Evazon and Arzoo, logistic partner – APML and knowledge partner GL Bajaj. It forged an extraordinary benchmark, pioneering the path for sustainable mobility solutions and propelling India into the realm of a more immaculate, verdant, and electrifying future.

Zee Media Corporation Ltd, one of India’s leading media companies, has a strong presence in the news and regional genres, with 16 news channels in seven different languages, reaching more than 528+ million viewers through its linear and digital properties.

Japanese tourists visit Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga

New Delhi, Sept 1, 2023:

A group of 15 Japanese tourists participated in a yoga session at Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY). The yoga session was conducted by yoga therapist Ms. Madhu Khurana, and a yoga demonstration was presented by yoga practitioner Ms. Shruti.

Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (2)

MDNIY Director, Mr. Vikram Singh, warmly welcomed the group of tourists. He provided them with information about the various activities and programs offered by the institute. During this visit, the Japanese tourists engaged in a dialogue session with the institute’s Director, Mr. Vikram Singh, who provided participants with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the ancient yoga teachings and traditions. At the end of the program, the guests shared their positive experiences and praised the institute for its pioneering efforts in promoting yoga.

It must be noted that yoga resonates deeply with the Japanese people. Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an event held on August 30, 2019, at the Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, honored Mr. Kimura of Japan Yoga Niketan with the ‘Prime Minister’s Yoga Award-2019’ in the ‘ International Category ‘ for his outstanding contribution to the promotion and development of yoga in Japan.

Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (3)

In this context, it is well-known that yoga is an ancient tradition in India, dating back thousands of years, which establishes harmony between physical, mental, and spiritual activities for the excellence of the body and mind. On December 11, 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21 as ‘International Day of Yoga.’ This proclamation was made in response to the dedicated efforts and special appeal of India’s Prime Minister, the Honorable Mr. Narendra Modi.

Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (3)

During the program, Mr. Mudit Sharma, Administrative Officer at MDNIY, and Ms. Manjot Kaur, a dietary specialist at MDNIY, were also present and made valuable contributions to the successful execution of the event.

Hilti India Private Limited has been ranked the 16th Best Workplace in India for 2023 by Great Place to Work

Devika TandonIndia, 1st September 2023 – Hilti India Private Limited is proud to announce that it has been ranked 16th among India’s great mid-size workplaces by the Great Place to Work ® Institute. This esteemed recognition highlights Hilti’s commitment to building a healthy work environment that places immense emphasis on employee well-being and growth.

Awarded to employers with an outstanding employee experience, the coveted ‘Great Mid-SizeWorkplaces’ list by GPTW® Institute is compiled after a rigorous evaluation of organizational culture, engagement, and people practices. For Hilti India, being certified for the 6th consecutive year by GPTW is a remarkable achievement, as it secures the 16th rank among the great mid-size organizations in India. The recognition given to Hilti India is a testament to its commitment to employee satisfaction and happiness.

Since its inception, Hilti India has empowered its team members with the freedom to chart their own career development paths. Its culture is driven by a people-development philosophy called MOMENT, which emphasizes frequent discussions, strength-based conversations, and ownership by team members of their professional growth.

Hilti India believes in providing an inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of gender, age, nationality, or educational background. Beyond leadership commitment, they enable employees to become ‘Inclusion Champions’ through initiatives like OwnIT, Diversity Dialogues, and Coffee Connects. Recognizing the importance of achieving gender balance, Hilti India leads the construction industry in breaking barriers and providing opportunities to women, especially in leadership roles.

Even with rapid growth, Hilti India has remained a close-knit organization, known for its warmth and camaraderie, providing multiple platforms for employees to connect and engage. Their unique performance-with-care philosophy actively encourages employees to plan their vacations and utilize their leaves to rejuvenate and strike a work-life balance. The Hilti 360 program brings a holistic approach to well-being, focusing not only on physical wellness but also on mental, financial, and social aspects, helping Hiltians find the right balance.

With market-leading benefits, including best-in-class insurance, 9 months of maternity leave, creche allowance, and a long-term commitment to flexibility, they ensure that employees can continue to pursue their aspirations at all stages of life.

What binds everyone together is the culture – ‘The Hilti Way’, which is kept alive and breathed by their ‘Sherpas’ – tenured Hiltians who act as culture ambassadors. These Sherpas induct, coach, and train leaders and team members in The Hilti Way, periodically organizing team camps that allow them to continuously reflect on and reinforce their core values of integrity, courage, teamwork, and commitment.

Speaking about this achievement, Devika Tandon, Director-HR of Hilti India, said, “This is a great honor for us. Our employees are at the core of everything we do, and we constantly strive to create a flourishing environment for them where they can not only contribute to the company to the best of their abilities but also grow into the best versions of themselves. We have worked hard to create
a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we strongly believe that every voice needs to be heard to achieve overall growth. This recognition will further encourage us to pursue innovation while
keeping our workforce at the center of it all.

Loop’s Unique Health Assurance Model Drives 200 Percent YoY Premium Surge across 1000 companies

1st September 2023 Pune: Loop, India’s first Health Assurance company, has achieved remarkable growth over the course of the last 12 months. In this duration, the company has registered an increment of 200% in premium bookings, powered by their unique model of offering preventive healthcare services with group health insurance. The company crossed the 1,000 customer mark and supports 500,000 employees and families who use the health assurance model to stay healthy and experience a technology-enabled insurance claim experience in the event of sickness. Headquartered in Pune, and backed by visionary investors like Vinod Khosla, General Catalyst, Elevation Capital and YCombinaAmrit Singhtor, Loop introduced Health Assurance in 2018 and has scaled operations across India to 400+ employees, with offices in Pune, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, and Hyderabad.

A concept that is new but being rapidly adopted by Indian companies, Health Assurance combines health data, technology and preventive care to keep people healthy i.e. achieve complete physical, mental and social well-being, as a primary objective, while making sure that they get accessible, affordable and empathetic sick care as and when they need it. Loop’s Health Assurance model has powered preventive healthcare in the last 12 months in the form of 100,000 medical chats, 30,000 doctor consults and 14,000 lab tests. 25,000 corporate employees have attended their preventive healthcare-focused wellness sessions.

Health Assurance is a necessity in the modern healthcare scenario, especially because of the Indian healthcare system’s disproportionate focus on sick care. This is mirrored by the health insurance industry’s focus on only paying for sick care. Neither system is incentivized to keep people healthy. This is compounded by Corporate India’s narrow definition of health benefits as only providing insurance coverage. As a result, India has a growing disease burden with 101 million diabetics, 315 million hypertensives, and 254 million obese (src ICMR). There is also a growing mental health burden. The impact of this disease burden is reflected in the workplace in the form of rising absenteeism and lowered productivity.

Amrit Singh

“At Loop, we believe that true healthcare goes beyond reactive measures. Our Health Assurance model is a commitment to proactive well-being, a pledge to keep employees healthy, and a promise to stand by them throughout their health journey. Health Assurance is more than just insurance. With insurance, you pay a premium in case you need critical medical care. With Health Assurance, you pay a premium for the assurance of good health and to have support along your entire care journey through preventive care, wellness programs, and chronic disease management. Imagine if your cardiologist had access to the live heart rate data on your wearable. Or what if your nutritionist checked in on you every week proactively? And what if you could get lab tests every year for free through your insurance plan? All this is possible, with the correct alignment of incentives, data, and care protocols.”, said Amrit Singh, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer, Loop.

Open networks to solve India’s inclusion and innovation challenges

Open networks to

1st September 2023: ONEST has registered the first set of network transactions, with many leaders across NASSCOM, ONDC, UNDP, bureaucrats, and several social and private sector organizations pledging their support to supercharge the education & skilling journey for various causes. Several organizations are joining the network to innovate around various use cases it enables.

At the mega event of EkStep about creating the People + Advantage hosted in New Delhi, key opinion leaders, subject matter experts, and bureaucrats discussed the various opportunities that open networks like ONEST provide and how public-private partnerships will enable India to reach its target of a $5 trillion economy by 2024.

ONEST (Open Network for Education & Skilling Transactions) is a network of opportunities that can bring together the power of thousands of platforms to enable lifelong learning & livelihoods. India is at the cusp of technological innovation by empowering billions of lives with Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and its entrepreneurship ecosystem. Be it the speed at which we are processing financial transactions using the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) or securely storing private health records, consumers in India are leveraging the power of Digital Public Infrastructure every day. DPI is ubiquitous in India, and open networks like ONEST can be the UPI of education & skilling.

With the objective of showcasing inclusive, innovative solutions, the event presented a variety of opportunities & experiences for addressing diverse global needs. The underlying philosophy of EkStep is that technology should serve billions of people, technology is for the world, and technology should usher in diversity. The event brought together all stakeholders – Sarkaar (the government), Samaaj (civil society), and the Bazaar (the business community) to highlight the transformative potential of the DPIs and open networks like ONEST. Speakers, dignitaries, and participants alike discussed how DPIs can provide solutions to every problem or situation.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Adil Zainulbhai, Chairman, of Network 18 Group, said, “India is one of the largest digital economies and has the capability to do things that have never been done before at scale. We can solve problems on a massive scale because of our population. One of the problems the industry faces is connecting non-regular, skilled labour to organisations that need them at scale. With the power of open networks, the right infrastructure and quality talent, I am confident we will find solutions to such challenges soon.”

Ms. Anjali Bansal, Member, Niti Ayog Evolution Review Committee, said, “India has seen how entrepreneurship has transformed our country. We are not just about valuation and value creation. Technology and innovation are at the core of our economic and social growth. We are now setting standards for the globe, be it the UPI, India Stack, or open network. We are championing frugal innovation, and Chandrayan 3 is the best example. It took the longer route but the more frugal route. We need to continue creating open-access systems that promote entrepreneurship. This will lead to the emergence of new business models and value creation at system levels.”

Debjani Ghosh, President NASSCOM said, “Like the entire nation took vaccine during Covid, we need to vaccinate everyone with AI to create the Generation AI that will leverage our demographics & fulfill India’s potential. The world should not just think about AI. It needs to think about AI India.”

Mr. Nandan Nilekani, Co-founder and Chairperson, EkStep, said, “Artificial Intelligence, open networks and continuous learning have the potential to transform India. Earlier data was a by-product, but today, it is the digital capital for both businesses and individuals. We need to combine the power of digital capital with human capital to create the people + advantage. A young India has tremendous potential, and open networks like ONEST will be pivotal to realise that potential”.