Chennai, 29th March 2023: Across the last few decades, technology has played a key enabler role in increasing banking penetration in India. However, with banking services even today offered primarily in English, individuals who may not be literate continue to face various hurdles. Further, there are limited solutions available for individuals with visual impairment or certain locomotive disabilities to access financial services. Focusing on solving this grassroots challenge at the heart of financial inclusion, IITM Research Park (IITMRP) and IITM Incubation Cell (IITMIC) have partnered with the Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) to conduct a hackathon that aims to drive innovation in banking inclusion.

The event, called ‘Vaulter Voice,’ is focused on developing a solution that can perform basic banking transactions through voice commands in the Indian languages of Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu to start with, in addition to English. This initiative will primarily help the underbanked population in overcoming language barriers and people unable to use touch-based applications due to any disability, gain access to formal banking services.

Speaking on the outcome of the hackathon Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, President – IIT Madras Research Park, IITM Incubation Cell & RTBI, said, “About 85% of households in India have incomes less than ₹25000 per month. Digitally driven fintech has the transformative potential to reach these often-neglected sections of the population and help them manage their finances better. ‘Vaulter Voice’ is a unique opportunity to bring together young creative minds in tech to develop a solution that can benefit millions of Indians who are unable to enter the formal financial fold due to a majority of the banking services being available only in English.”

The hackathon challenge is being conducted with the help of technology resources developed by IITs as a part of the Bhashini group, for building a public platform for languages for the development of various services. The hackathon is also supported by a number of banks and associated financial institutions. The resultant innovation will be further scaled up across the country, expanding to other Indian languages as well.

“I strongly believe that consumer experience is the key to financial inclusion, which in turn can strengthen our economy at its very core. Delivering financial products and services through regional languages can expand reach significantly. In this context, I am excited to explore and implement innovations that come through the Vaulter Voice hackathon” said Rajesh Bansal, CEO, of Reserve Bank Innovation Hub.

The hackathon also ties into one of IITMRP and IITMIC’s ambitious 10X goals, to make India a leader in ‘Fintech for Inclusion’ with the vision of achieving sustainable and inclusive socio-economic growth for the country. By working along with dedicated “Fintech for Inclusion” partners, the aim is to drive innovation with transformative potential in this sector.

Students, startups, and young working professionals across the country passionate about developing voice-based solutions that promote financial inclusion in India are encouraged to apply for the Hackathon. IITM Research Park will also potentially look at identifying, commercializing, and helping scale innovative solutions, under its “Fintech for Inclusion” initiative.

Mumbai,28^th March 23:With the blooming season at its peak, bring out the colors in your wardrobe with shades of pink, lavender, and blush. The spring season is not just the transition period for your apparel, it’s the time for you to unleash the fashionista inside you!

The season asks for a delectable palette of colors to add a pop of chicness to your ensemble. Looking for some fashion inspiration? We have the complete head-to-toe style guide to get your style game on point for the cherry blossom season.

  pH Sun Care Range

While spring is a great time to flaunt your gorgeous locks, it calls for added protection for your hair against sun, salt, wind & Chlorine damage. If you’re looking for the perfect sun care routine with trusted essentials, fret no more! Pamper your mane with the ultimate Sun Care Range by pH. The range was launched in India by Maison D’Auraine and provides protection to your hair along with adding a dose of healthy shine and beautiful fragrance. The kit includes a mix of After Sun Shampoo, After Sun Conditioner, and Anti-Frizz oil enriched with the goodness of Aloe Vera and Tulip extracts. This go-to combination is a lifesaver for hydrating dull and detangled hair along with adding the extra oomph, softness, and bounce to your mane.

• Kult App Skincare Box 

No matter what the season, skincare should always be on top of your list of essentials! While spring may look breezy, your skin is still prone to the sun, dryness, pollution, and dehydration.  The Kult App skincare box is all you need to give your skin the love and care it needs. Kult App focuses on hyper-personalization by analyzing 100,000+ skin combinations. Each product is rated based on a one-time Skin Analysis Test along with reviews by expert dermatologists, promising the ultimate personalized shopping experience. Choose from a variety of international and homegrown brands for the perfect skincare regime delivered to your doorstep within 48 hours pan India.

●       Colorbar’s 12-in-1 Eyeshadow Palette

Colorbar’s 12-in-1 Eyeshadow Palettes consist of shimmering hot-gold, dark, and ruby glitters that leave a gleaming finish. Made with an exquisite and rich formula, Colorbar’s 12-in-1 Eyeshadow Palette delivers a velvety texture, and richly pigmented color with ample versatility to experiment even more! The 12-in-1 Eyeshadow Palette range has 3 exclusive palettes, which are a mix of complementing shades that help one achieve their desired look. Each palette is priced at INR 2200.

 Colorbar’s Cheek illusion Blush in Everything’s Rosy

Immerse your cheeks in a luxurious and luminous color with Colorbar’s Cheekillusion Blush. With Colorbar’s blusher, you get to bless your cheeks with an incredible combination of high color payoff and addictive velvety touch. This powder blush has a lightweight, silky texture that hugs your cheeks with a satiny matte finish. That unmissable pop of color lasts throughout the day as this blush comes with a long-lasting and smudge-proof color. Colorbar’s Cheekillusion blush is priced at INR 675.

Immerse your cheeks in a luxurious and luminous color with Colorbar’s Cheekillusion Blush. With Colorbar’s blusher, you get to bless your cheeks with an incredible combination of high color payoff and addictive velvety touch. This powder blush has a lightweight, silky texture that hugs your cheeks with a satiny matte finish. That unmissable pop of color lasts throughout the day as this blush comes with a long-lasting and smudge-proof color. Colorbar’s Cheekillusion blush is priced at INR 675.

• Medicare’s Urban Color London Nail Lacquer

• To achieve the perfect nails, try out new shades and experiment with colors like Purple and Green with Modicare’s Urban Color London’s Nail Lacquer in the shade, Teal Steal, and Lilac Bloom. This super-rich, heavily pigmented, and chip-resistant nail lacquer is 100% vegan, safe, and toxin-free. Available at just MRP Rs. 135/-, the formula allows exceptional color coverage and comes with a short to medium drying time for eye-popping bright nails for the trendy girl in you!

*All the products under the Modicare range are available across the country through Modicare Consultants.

• Trendy spring fashion wear available on Amala Earth

It’s time to bid adieu to your winter wear and upgrade your wardrobe with sustainable fashion from Amala Earth. To up your styling game, Amala Earth offers a good wardrobe with prints that match your personality and style this spring season.  There are ample options to get the perfect spring dress to flaunt. From Kalamkari dresses to organic printed dresses, this earth-friendly platform has got you covered for all your fashion essentials. The exquisite colorful dresses are perfect for brunch/lunch dates and are made from ethical fashion practices. Amala Earth encourages its users to be earth-friendly and move towards responsible fashion with a trendy twist.

• Taneira Cyanotype- a contemporary kurta collection 

Taneira furthers its endeavor to strengthen the handicrafts community in the country by giving them a new art form to practice and conserve. Each of the seven chic styles in the collection uses a multi-disciplinary approach on garments through mixed media. Inspired by the nostalgia of pressing leaves and flowers as a childhood memory, Cyanotype brings alive the spirit of those reminiscences and preserves it, in wearable form. Cyanotype boasts a tasteful combination of modern, effortless silhouettes and multi-functional outfits with pocket detailing and belts, some of which can even be styled as a dress, taking you from nine to dine within seconds. Priced between INR 4990 and INR 6990, Cyanotype is available across all Taneira stores in the country.

• Bata Red Label Collection 

Bata India’s latest Red Label collection for women is a delectable palette of colors to add a pop of chicness to your ensemble. With an array of colorways, reinforce your personality with shades of pink, lavender, and blush. With styles inspired by the latest fashion trends around the world, the collection is full of peppy, trendsetting footwear to instantly get you noticed. Bata is no longer just your utility comfort shoe- it’s the Stiletto that elevates your monochrome dress, the Pump that defines your power dressing, and the Chunky Sandal that makes you top the trend charts. Whether dressing up for a social occasion with the dainty Nancy Mule or everyday urban chic with classic Heather flats, the collection offers an extravaganza of dress and casual styles.

• Titan Raga Delight – the perfect accessory for your spring ensemble

Crafted for the boldly beautiful women of today, the collection features thirteen designs that offer a tactile, soft and flowy feel, evoking soothing and sensorial experiences. The masterful watchmaking in this collection features an inimitable piece with a 2-layered dial, where premium stones float in between, creating a playful effect. Another beautiful watch presents a rose quartz bunch, which can be interchanged with a single golden stud for added splendor and richness.

Adding elegance to any occasion, Titan Raga Delight is the ideal fashion accessory for every occasion, this spring. Prices start at INR 5,995/- onwards, and the stunning range of watches is also available at www. Titan.co.in.

• SKINN Noura by Titan

Capturing the essence of the season of spring, SKINN Noura by Titan is the new floral fragrance for women. SKINN Noura is a range of floral fragrances bottled in a breathtaking flower bud-shaped bottle. It comes in two variants – Noura Iris and Noura Floret. Noura Iris basks in the coziness of a luminous floral bouquet paired with classic and contemporary white florals. Noura Floret is a decadent spring scent, it is a combination of deep rose notes and rich fruits.

• Fastrack Bags Spring Summer ’23 Collection

Fastrack India has introduced the season’s trendiest range of Girls’ Handbags in their Spring Summer ’23 collection for you to ‘Wear It Your Way’. Designed specifically for modern Indian youngsters who value self-expression and are unafraid to experiment with fashion, the new collection is the season’s trendiest range of Girls’ Handbags. The designs are vibrant, fun, and versatile, perfect for the spring and summer seasons.

The National Board of Examinations for Medical Sciences, or NBE, is anticipated to release the NEET PG 2023 Scorecard. NEET PG candidates can retrieve their scorecard from the official websites, natboard.edu.in, and nbe.edu.in, as soon as it is made available. In addition, aspirants should be aware that the NEET PG Counselling
The 2023 procedure is anticipated to start in July.

The 2023 NEET PG exam was given on March 5th. Since the Supreme Court rejected all requests for exam postponement, the PG entrance exam has been held. The NEET PG Test attracted more than 2 lakh applicants.

In 2022 students know that in the 2023 exam held by NBE. Students are mentally prepared for counseling and mostly are dropouts and diploma students. This year the counseling is processing very aggressively. Neet PG students want to clear the exam and confirm their seats. Students are trying regularly to ensure their seats. Those students who are from a government basis and have a diploma have many options in their course. This year the council is performing very sincerely and monetarily. The cutoff procedure is changed this year due to the inclination that the college will only be providing to the students based on the previous and last year’s cutoff. This year the counseling strategy is very different from the previous year. Students find their colleges and then start counseling or else it has many defeatist effects.

According to Gaurav Tyagi, founder of Career Xpert:- Do proper research in terms of college before taking admission to it. Review and facilities analysis of the colleges should be done correctly. Don’t believe in consultancy agencies and agents. Counselors believe in your R&D and check the labs, OPD, IPD, and machinery, types of working of the college personally by visiting there. It will help you to find a better college for yourself.

Hyderabad, March 28th, 2023: Avtar Group, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Solutions firm, announced the winners of Inspiring Women Awards 2023 across two categories – Second Career and industry tracks at a conference held virtually on March 24th, 2023.

Inspiring Second Career Woman Award was instituted to celebrate strong Women Professionals, who have demonstrated resilience in successfully pursuing their professional goals after career breaks. The winners were selected based on their perseverance and innovative approach in their job search and eventual successful comebacks. The second award category, Inspiring Women across Industries recognizes role models who demonstrate intentionality and purpose in pursuing their professional goals.

The awards were announced at the 15th edition of Avtar’s flagship conference, SEGUE Sessions, a conclave exclusively for women. Announcing the winners, Dr. Saundarya Rajesh, Founder – President, of Avtar Group said, “A silver lining in our quest for gender balance is that more women are today strategically invested in their careers, and it is great news when India is aiming to be the $5 trillion economy. This is evident in the nominations that we received for the two award categories, where we saw intentional women professionals who with their dedication and hard work are breaking stereotypes and shattering glass ceilings. When organizations mine into this hi-potential talent pool of women and spearhead systemic and cultural shifts towards gender inclusion, we would truly unlock a huge economic opportunity for our country!”

A total of 25 women professionals whose journeys were each unique and inspiring were shortlisted by the expert jury and 5 winners were chosen for being exemplars and making their marks in their respective fields.

In the “Inspiring Second Career Women” category of awards, Sampoorna Rath, Engineering Manager, Cognizant emerged as the title winner, while Parvathi Govindasamy, Associate Specialist, KBR India Pvt Ltd was chosen for the “Choice of Jury” award.

Under the Inspiring Women in Industries 2023 category, Manika Bhargava bagged the title award in the Manufacturing industry track, as the Inspiring Woman in Manufacturing. Manika is the Country Logistics Leader, Indian Sub-continent at Dow Chemical International Pvt Ltd. Shailaja D N, Enterprise Architect of IBM India Pvt Ltd is the title winner of Inspiring Woman in Technology category. The Choice of Jury award for Inspiring Woman in technology went to Vijayalakshmi Elangovan, R & D Director, Cloud DevOps, AVEVA Solutions India LLP.

Segue Sessions is one of the most impactful and successful confluences for women professionals, hosted by Avtar Group. Segue Sessions is aimed at enabling women professionals to build sustainable and successful career paths irrespective of interruptions and challenges in their careers. In the fifteenth edition of Segue Sessions, several women leaders and senior industry practitioners rendered their expertise at the keynote addresses, panel discussions, and workshops as part of the conference. Over 300 delegates from across industries participated in this virtual conclave.

At the conference themed Mapping the Invisible, Dr. Valli Arunachalam, Nuclear scientist, and semiconductor technologist delivered the keynote on how ‘Choice is a verb’. Other speakers at the conference included, Jay Mallya, SVP, R&D, AVEVA; Priyanka Chaudhry, EY Global Delivery Services Tax Leader; Suchita Dantre, Senior Director, Human Resources, Midland Credit Management (MCM) India, Encore Capital Group; Krishna Narayanan, Senior Director, Medical Devices, Cognizant; Tryphena Edward, Project Engineer, KBR India; and Beena Sarkar, Head, Customer Success at Crux Intelligence.

As part of the conference, Avtar also announced HackEquity, a DEI hackathon for companies to crack the Inclusion code. HackEquity brings together a diverse group of people to collaborate and design solutions to real-world problems that impact underrepresented talent groups. Participants from companies worked in teams to develop prototypes, pitch ideas and receive feedback from experts in the industry. Among the companies that participated, AVEVA emerged as the winner presenting a solution on how companies can look at executive sponsorship as a sustainable model to advance gender-balanced leadership.

India March 28, 2023: A new funding is set to spur India’s renewable energy capacity and help improve access to climate finance, with International Finance Corporation (IFC) investing INR 3,750 million (about $50 million) in a sustainability-linked bond (SLB) issued by Tata Cleantech Capital. This is the first such instrument issued by a private financial institution in India and will support the country’s shift to a clean energy economy.

The SLB will help Tata Cleantech Capital Limited (TCCL), a joint venture between Tata Capital Limited and IFC, strengthen its position as a leading green financier by taking on ambitious climate and sustainability targets. The company will work towards scaling up on-lending towards renewable energy projects and diversifying into energy efficiency and e-mobility sectors over the next three years.

SLBs are a rapidly growing capital market instrument, alongside Green, Social, and Sustainable (GSS) bonds, to support global sustainable development. A financing tool of the future, SLBs focus on impact and measurable results, going beyond the “end-use” focused approach of GSS instruments, and helping organizations improve performance against the tailor-made environment, social, and governance (ESG) targets that also contribute to the United Nations Global Goals.

Manish Chourasia, Managing Director, Tata Cleantech Capital says, “Aligning with our sustainability goals, IFC’s innovative financing structure will enable us to be a pioneer issuer of an SLB in India and strengthen our green financing portfolio. Also, the financing will help diversify our borrowings’ profile in the fight against climate change.”

Moreover, with India’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions aiming to reduce the carbon intensity by more than 45 percent by 2030 from its 2005 levels, IFC estimates the country will need around $403 billion in renewable finance by 2030 to achieve its renewable targets.

Joon Young Park, IFC’s Portfolio Manager, Financial Institutions Group for South Asia said, “Increasing climate financing is key to supporting sustainable economic growth in India. IFC’s partnership with a long-term equity investee company and leader in climate finance is timely and will help promote resilient infrastructure and financial markets by catalyzing the issuance of India’s first sustainability-linked bond by a financial institution. In addition, the project will provide a much-needed boost deepening and broadening India’s debt capital markets, the key to achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.”

Kerala, 28th March 2023: Sightsavers India and Cholamandalam, have inaugurated the Raahi Vision Centre in Kalamassery, Kochi in collaboration with SSM Foundation. The center aims to promote road safety by providing free eye screenings and spectacles to truck drivers and allied staff in the trucking community. It is the first of its kind in Kerala and part of Sightsavers India’s nationwide project to promote eye health and road safety.

The Raahi Vision Centre, funded by Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company Limited, was inaugurated by Mr Girish M, (RCM, Cholamandalam), in the presence of esteemed dignitaries such as Mr. Venugopal C. Govind (Trustee SSM Eye Research Foundation), Dr. A. Giridhar (Managing Trustee SSM Eye Research), and Mr. Prasanna Kumar (Director-Programs Operations, Sightsavers).

“Our support for the Raahi Vision Centre is aligned with our commitment to promote road safety and support the trucking community. We are proud to be associated with Sightsavers India and SSM Eye Research Foundation in their mission to promote road safety among truck drivers and allied staff in Kerala. At Cholamandalam, we believe in investing in initiatives that have a positive impact on the communities we serve. We are committed to promoting safety on the roads and improving the overall well-being of those who keep our economy moving. We hope that this project will set an example for others to follow and contribute to creating a safer and healthier India.” said Mr. Girish M, RCM, Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company Limited.

The Raahi Vision Centre will conduct screening and awareness programs for lorry drivers and allied staff of the trucking community, providing spectacles free of charge after the screening. The center will also organize screening programs on Saturdays at lorry drivers’ hubs and factories. Truck drivers’ associations and factories can contact the program coordinator to schedule screenings at their campuses.

Mr. Prasanna Kumar, Director-Programs Operations, Sightsavers, stated, “We are delighted to collaborate with Cholamandalam and SSM Eye Research Foundation to inaugurate the Raahi Vision Centre in Kerala, which will offer this critical service to the trucking community. Our mission at Sightsavers India is to eliminate avoidable blindness, and this initiative aligns perfectly with our goals by ensuring that truck drivers and allied staff have access to critical eye care services, helping them maintain their vision and enhancing road safety for all.”

The Raahi Vision Centre is a significant step towards creating a safer and healthier trucking community and promoting road safety in India.

New Delhi 28th March 2023: In collaboration with leading micro venture funds in mobility and Yamaha as an Innovation partner, Sanchiconnect- a business-focused network for deep tech startups, investors, and corporates, launched a preseed green mobility program for Indian EV startups in early March. This will be a 3-month accelerator program with a Go-to-Market emphasis and fund infusion by three micro venture capital firms, targeting very early-stage sustainability (green mobility) businesses. Eight early-stage entrepreneurs in the field of green mobility will get Rs 75 lac INR each from the Pre-seed Accelerator-Green Mobility, in partnership with ThinKuvate, EV2 Ventures and SEA Fund as financial partners. The deadline for applications is March 31. After that date, screening and selection will start, along with due diligence, with Desai & Diwanji Law Firm serving as the program’s legal partner.

With only 4 days left before the deadline, the platform has received an overwhelming response from its partners for its upcoming accelerator program which has already received more than 200 applications.

“ThinKuvate is excited to partner with SanchiConnect for their Green Mobility programme,” said Ghanshyam Ahuja, Managing Partner, ThinKuvate. The EV industry in India is expanding rapidly, with more startups entering the market, and we will like to be a part of this journey. With 200 startups already registered, we are confident that this programme will turn out to be a go-to place for the EV startup ecosystem.”

The mobility sector is projected to reach a global market size of $2.7 trillion by 2030, with India’s CAGR expected to be 49% compared to the global average of 22%. It is estimated that there will be 50 million electric vehicles (EVs) plying on Indian roads by 2030 and the micro-mobility market size in India is pegged at $60 billion. Additionally, it has been predicted that 80% of the retail vehicle finance market in India would go towards EV financing, amounting to an estimated figure of $320 billion for smart transportation and connected logistics by 2030. Green Mobility is a Sanchiconnect initiative in collaboration with green mobility-focused venture funds supporting IP lead businesses in contributing towards the growing mobility startup ecosystem.

Yamaha has been a global innovation leader in the automotive industry. We are committed to providing our stakeholders with world-class solutions across all domains. With “Green Mobility-Preseed Accelerator,” Yamaha is excited to explore and learn the breadth of mobility-focused open innovation in India, as well as provide mentorship and market access support wherever it aligns with Yamaha’s objectives, said Sanjay Singh, MD of Yamaha Motor Solutions India.

One key driver of this growth is consumer demand for sustainable transportation solutions that reduce emissions and improve air quality. Additionally, government incentives such as tax credits for electric vehicles (EVs) have made EVs increasingly accessible to consumers and with this Pre-Seed accelerator program, Sanchiconnect is aiming to support very early-stage green mobility startups in terms of getting funding and mentorship support from the industry. Applications for this program will be accepted until the 31st of March. This 90-day program will start on 1st May and conclude on 30th July. The selected startups to receive funding can get up to Rs 4 crore, while each startup will get a minimum of Rs 75 lacs at the first stage of the program. Moreover, industry experts will be available to provide real-time experience and learning to the young entrepreneurs in developing their startups and helping them become competitive in the market through the Founders helping Founders initiative. This is India’s first specialized industry-focused acceleration program, with notable founders onboard as mentors to hand-hold very early-stage founders.

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New Delhi, 28 March 2023. ART Fertility Clinics, a globally recognized chain offering IVF treatments, recently released its first TV communication, highlighting its 3T or 3 Trust Factors that help the chain deliver a pregnancy rate of 70%, amongst the highest globally. The film is a moving story of the triumph of hope over helplessness, sensitively conveyed by a woman who failed to conceive naturally but was finally able to after she underwent treatment at ART Fertility Clinics.

Dr. Somesh Mittal, CEO of ART Fertility Clinics, India, says, “We are thrilled to showcase our first-ever ad film that highlights our 3 Trust Factors: Treatment, Technology, and Transparency. Our team of doctors, embryologists, and nursing staff is amongst the best in the world. Their expertise, combined with our use of some of the most innovative technologies, makes us among the most successful clinics for infertility management and IVF treatment. Some of the most innovative and state-of-the-art technologies and types of equipment we use as part of our treatment include (1) RI WITNESS SYSTEM that uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to detect and monitor all activity in the laboratory to safeguard every stage of the IVF cycle. In addition, RFID readers are integrated into the worktops to track the movement of samples ensuring these don’t get contaminated (mixed) on account of any human error; (2) XILTRIX ALARMING SYSTEM that provides sensors for laboratory monitoring and alarm systems. It is one of the essential parts of the Quality Control procedures of the laboratory; (3) ZAND PCOC 3 AIR FILTERS are industry-leading portable air filters best suited for IVF laboratories. They trap particles as small as 0.001 microns to create an environment as clean and safe as a mother’s womb.”

Mr. Karan Kumar, Group Chief Marketing and Growth Officer of ART Fertility Clinics, added, “We wanted to take an emotive but realistic route in our story-telling, one best delivered by a woman who, having experienced Infertility herself, sought evidence-based medical treatment to overcome it. We also consciously wove references to her husband and mother-in-law into the script. We believe both are uniquely placed to offer the most immediate and intimate support the wife needs, albeit often does not have amongst large parts of our society. That aside, we also wanted the story to highlight that Infertility is a gender-agnostic condition and that Male Infertility could be an equally contributing factor in the life of a couple trying to conceive and start a family naturally. We think the film was a much-needed intervention in the mass media ecosystem, especially because, despite the gravity of this crisis, the subject of Infertility remains a taboo conversation in most parts of our society. We think the film will help mainstream this discussion, bringing it out in the open. As global leaders in reproductive medicine, we think that this is our responsibility and that we are best suited to lead this change in India.”

The release of this new film is not an isolated initiative from the brand. Over the past months, ART Fertility Clinics has launched several initiatives to raise awareness about the Infertility crisis faced by as many high as 1 out of every 6 couples in India. The brand had also recently launched “Let’s Talk Infertility,” its unique initiative with leading media house NDTV. Before that, the clinic chain had announced the “Tree Of Life” program, a unique initiative where the clinic plants a fruit-bearing tree to celebrate the birth of every child across six states where its clinics are present while beginning the year by hosting “ANNO 2023,” one of the largest international conferences showcasing assisted reproductive technologies and latest advancements in reproductive medicine.

The ability to use English competently is critical for the study and practice of medicine in an international setting. As written by the Institute for Healthcare Communication, “extensive research has shown that no matter how knowledgeable a clinician might be, if he or she is not able to open good communication with the patient, he or she may be of no help”. When a student applies to an international medical school, with the view to practicing medicine in an English-speaking country, they should be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English. This is commonly done by passing a language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). With over 3.5 million IELTS tests taken each year and an increase in the number of students looking to study medicine abroad in English-speaking countries such as the US and UK, St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine, Grenada, in the Caribbean shares what aspiring medical students need to know about this test and its importance in international medical education.

What is the IELTS?

IELTS is a standardized test that measures English language abilities. It is widely recognized for medical students and healthcare professionals who wish to study or practice medicine in English-speaking countries. The test covers four key language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

The test is available in over 140 countries and is accepted by over 10,000 organizations, including universities, professional bodies, and government agencies. It is recognized by many medical schools in English-speaking countries, including the UK, Australia, the United States, and the Caribbean, as a required part of the admission process for international medical students.

What is considered a ‘good’ IELTS score for medical school?

IELTS scores are reported on a nine-band scale, with scores ranging from 0 to 9, with higher scores indicating a higher level of proficiency. For admission into most international universities, including St. George’s University School of Medicine, students need to achieve a 7.0 overall and 7.0 on all bands. This indicates that the test taker has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage, and misunderstandings in some situations. They generally handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning.

What if I don’t meet requirements?

Check what support your medical school can give. SGU offers language support programs including Pre-sessional English programs, the English for Medicine Pathway (EMP), and Medical Academic Communication (MAC) for students who do not meet direct entry English requirements. These programs support the development of communication skills for studying and practicing medicine in an English-speaking context.

Communication and International Medical Education

The communication skills and tasks required both for the study and practice of medicine are dynamic and complex. “Our students need to do more than simply have conversations or write papers in English. The study and practice of medicine requires students to be able to synthesize, analyze, and apply evidence from multiple sources – key critical thinking skills and foundational for Evidence-Based Practice – clearly and concisely document notes for patients’ medical records, show empathy during the medical interview, and actively engage in collaborations with colleagues. These are just some of the many key communication skills needed,” says Kasey Larson, Director of the Specialized English Language Programs (SELP) Unit at St. George’s University.

A high level of English competence is required to engage effectively and learn in the interactive context of a medical school, and it is necessary to demonstrate competence on the course and standardized licensing exams.

Students are now more aware than ever that the journey isn’t over once they earn their degree. They need to consider where they would like to practice medicine once they graduate. While language proficiency tests can appear daunting, they are a straightforward – and critical – step in foreign students’ educational paths. The IELTS provides a springboard from which non-English speakers can launch their medical careers, granting them the necessary qualification to succeed in English-speaking countries regardless of their geographical location.

As no other medical school in the world provides more new doctors to the US healthcare system*, St. George’s University is well-versed in supporting aspiring doctors with their journey to a career in medicine and appreciates the importance of equipping these students with a well-rounded skill set.

* As the medical school graduates the largest number of students annually, SGU places the largest number of graduates into residency programs each year, based on internal SGU graduate and residency placement data as of May 2022.

India, 28th March 2023: Reckitt, the global leader in consumer healthcare, today announced the expansion of The Durex Birds and Bees Talk programme (TBBT), which is directed towards adolescents between the age group – 10 to 19 Years, in the states of Gujarat and New Delhi. In partnership with ASSOCHAM Foundation For Corporate Social Responsibility (AFCSR), the programme aims to reach 15 million adolescents this year across the two states. To mark the expansion, the programme has also launched its theme song – ‘Protected’ which focuses on five key pillars built within the curriculum – Consent, Equity, Inclusion, Awareness and Protection.

The Durex Birds and Bees Talk programme released its first Social Return on Investment (SROI) Evaluation Study Report, highlighting that every ₹1 invested into the programme, delivers ₹24.40 in social value. Led by Plan India and Reckitt, the programme has been implemented in 6 North East States (NES) of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim. Through offline and digital platforms, TBBT has reached 4 million youth till date across these states. Launched with the support of respective state governments, TBBT has a 2-level interactive, animated curriculum that covers growing up and life skills, to promote the core principles of inclusion, awareness, consent, awareness and protection.

Gaurav Jain, Executive Vice President, Reckitt, South Asia, said, “At Reckitt, we are committed to helping adolescents as they encounter a range of life-changing experiences that necessitate coping and adaptation. Over the last three years, the Durex Birds and Bees Talk programme, implemented in partnership with Plan India across North-Eastern states, has been focused on imparting growing-up life skills to adolescents and youth. The programme yields a social value of ₹24.40 for every rupee invested, which is an indicator of the trust that the programme has generated among its stakeholders and promises the possibilities of greater heights to be achieved with a solid foundation. We are positive that our partnership with AFCSR will help us replicate the success of the programme in the states of Gujarat and New Delhi and educate students, as we target to achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health & Well-being), 4 (Quality Education), and 5 (Gender Equality).”

Deepak Sood, Secretary General, ASSOCHAM & Trustee, ASSOCHAM Foundation For Corporate Social Responsibility (AFCSR), said, “We are delighted to partner with Reckitt for one of their most successful programmes – The Durex Birds and Bees Talk and take it forward in various districts across Gujarat and New Delhi. As part of the programme, we aim to empower over 15Mn adolescents with the right knowledge of power, protection, and pleasure to ensure their health, well-being, and development. The programme will generate awareness amongst students about healthy behaviour, make informed decisions, knowledge about consent, and develop equity and inclusivity with the help of pop-cultural references, engaging with youth influencers and using technology for communication.”

Mohammed Asif, Executive Director, of Plan India, said, “Plan India has been working for more than two decades to improve sexual and reproductive health services and rights for all children, adolescent girls and young women and men in different parts of India. Our long-standing partnership with Reckitt has helped us create a significant impact through the TBBT programme in the states of Northeast. The programme has been successful in helping students in enhancing practices relating to safe hygiene and health and gaining a deeper understanding of body anatomy and physical changes experienced during puberty. We are happy to see the programme growing and hope to continue driving ground-level change with various partnerships.”

Key highlights from the report:

• For every ₹1 invested in The Durex Birds and The Bees Talk Programme delivers ₹24.40 of social value
• Through offline and digital platforms, TBBT has reached 4 million youth, 4000 teachers and more than 2000 schools till date.
• Through digital activation, the programme has been able to reach out to 320 million people across the nation
• 83.85% increased ability among students to recognise and address gender roles and stereotypes
• 44.41% increased awareness about harmful effects and consequences of substance abuse among students
• 84.38% increased technical knowledge regarding growing up life skills curriculum in teachers
• 57.03% acceptance of students of other sexual orientations and gender identities
• New Delhi & Guwahati became the top sources of conversations about the programme
• TBBT programme has established a strong online and offline presence. Its efforts have resulted in the programme making an 87% increase in its reach over the year and positive sentiments ahead by 50%

Rahul Rajkhowa, one of the most written about artists from Northeast India for his music addressing social and environmental issues, has created the theme song for TBBT programme to help set a strong foundation for this initiative in the states of Gujarat and New Delhi. Music has been the best source of communication since the beginning of TBBT and the newly launched song shares the crucial message of acquiring the right knowledge of power, protection and pleasure to ensure healthy development and wellbeing. Rahul has successfully brought the right mix of youth lingo along with the programme messaging, paired with a catchy beat. The song has been launched on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and will be shared with key influencers to help reach the masses.

The Durex Birds and The Bees Talk Programme under Reckitt and Plan India is an innovative and pioneering initiative that has focused on inculcating growing up life skills for adolescents in the northeastern region of India. Through its systematic intervention, the programme is encouraging conversations around sexual and reproductive health among adolescents, teachers, and their community members. Adolescent girls and boys in the country lack access to information on issues affecting their lives and have limited spaces to develop competencies crucial for their active participation. TBBT programme is addressing these challenges by imparting critical and age-appropriate information, promoting healthy and safe behaviour and practices, as well as equipping adolescents with life skills, values and attitudes to become responsible adults.