Archives July 2023

The University of Dundee, in collaboration with the Karnataka State Higher Education Council and British Council, recently celebrated the outstanding achievements of students who participated in the Transforming Lives: Karnataka, Dundee & Beyond competition. These talented individuals showcased their innovative ideas and commitment to addressing global health and environmental challenges. The award ceremony, held at the University of Dundee in Scotland, provided a platform to recognise their remarkable accomplishments.

Students from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Gulbarga University, and the University of Visvesvaraya College of Engineering collaborated with the University of Dundee to explore solutions to pressing global issues. As a result of their exceptional work, the winning team from the University of Agricultural Sciences designed and developed a low-cost, solar-based automatic irrigation system and were presented with their award by Consul General of India in Edinburgh, Shri. Bijay Selvaraj, alongside Professor Hari Hundal and Professor Kim Dale, Dundee’s Assistant Vice-Principal (International).

Professor Hundal, Dundee’s Academic Regional Lead in South Asia, expressed his admiration for the students’ accomplishments, saying, “These students have demonstrated exceptional critical thinking skills and innovative ideas. The competition has not only fostered healthy competition but also served as a catalyst for their intellectual growth, pushing boundaries and encouraging them to challenge themselves.”

The event also showcased the collaborative efforts between Indian institutions and Dundee, fostering an exchange of knowledge and ideas. Professor Hundal acknowledged the British Council’s crucial financial support and expressed their shared enthusiasm for replicating and implementing this successful approach in other states across India.

The 5 day residential visit provided participating students with an opportunity to experience the world-leading facilities of the University of Dundee and immerse themselves in Scotland’s warm and welcoming culture.

Reflecting on their visit to the campus, Vighnesha, a student from the winning team at the University of Agricultural Sciences, said, “This visit has allowed us to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Scottish people while gaining a global perspective through the university’s international connections.” Vighnesha further praised the University of Dundee, emphasising that it is “a place where dreams are nurtured, ideas are celebrated, and students are empowered to make a difference in the world.”

The University of Dundee continues to foster collaborations and offer transformative educational opportunities to students from India and around the world, encouraging them to become agents of positive change in their respective fields.

The Rimac Nevera, already the fastest accelerating production car in the world and the production EV with the highest verified top speed, is now also the fastest electric production car to have ever taken on the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed hillclimb as well as the fastest overall production car this year. In the Supercar Shootout on the final day of the event, the Nevera set a time of 49.32 seconds.

The car – fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires – was driven throughout the weekend by Bugatti Rimac Chief Test and Development Driver, Miroslav Zrnčević, who famously spent most of his time on the hill in Nevera during 2022 sideways, in smoky drifts through every corner. But for 2023, the focus wasn’t just on putting on a show, it was on setting a record.

“Taking on the narrow hillclimb at Goodwood, with its tight corners and off-camber sections, is actually one of the scariest places to drive a car quickly. But this is the record-setting year for the Nevera, and Goodwood hillclimb was yet another challenge to conquer. With tens of thousands watching on-site and millions more online, there’s a fine-line between glory and a trip into the hay bales, but I’m so happy to have showcased the incredible work of the design and engineering teams with another verified record for this revolutionary car,” Miroslav Zrnčević, Chief Test and Development Driver, Bugatti Rimac

Throughout the Festival, Rimac Automobili hosted VIPs and customers at its track-side hospitality pavilion, and welcomed guests to join Miro in the car for the hill runs, able to experience for themselves the blistering speed and ability of a car that has been named Top Gear’s Best Electric Performance car, won a Robb Report Best of the Best Award and a GQ Hypercar of the Year.

Throughout the three days of the event, the Nevera wore a livery created by the Rimac design team, inspired by the Rimac BMW e-M3, the brainchild of Mate Rimac and the car that inspired Mate to create Rimac Automobili. Back in 2011, the e-M3 thrust Rimac into the limelight by setting a number of Guinness and FIA-approved all-electric speed records. And now history repeats itself. This livery was first debuted on the Nevera that broke 23 acceleration and performance records in a single day earlier in 2023.

Key to the Nevera’s speed is its advanced battery system, powertrain and software, all developed in-house at the Rimac Group. The front and rear powertrains – each composed of two individual motors – provide power to each wheel individually. At the rear, a 1MW dual inverter enables 900Nm and 470kW per motor, while an entirely bespoke front powertrain is designed to deliver optimum power and control. All systems are overseen by a complex web of in-house developed electronic control units, working in conjunction with an NVIDIA Pegasus-based supercomputer to calculate and send output to the four powertrain systems 100 times a second. The combination of all these systems, and the software that controls them, is known as Rimac All-Wheel Torque Vectoring 2.

The Rimac Nevera is limited to 150 examples and it is currently being built on the outskirts of Zagreb, with deliveries ongoing to customers all over the world.

New Delhi, 18th July 2023: DSP Mutual Fund announced the launch of three open-ended exchange traded funds (ETFs) DSP S&P BSE Sensex ETF, DSP Nifty Private Bank ETF and DSP Nifty PSU Bank ETF.

DSP S&P BSE Sensex ETF replicates/tracks the S&P BSE Sensex Index and offers investors the opportunity to invest in the Indian markets – one of the fastest growing economies with conducive economic and capex conditions. DSP Nifty Private Bank ETF replicates/tracks the Nifty Private Bank Index, offering investors a long-term structural growth story in Indian Private Sector Banks. DSP Nifty PSU Bank ETF replicates/tracks the Nifty PSU Bank Index and offers investors a tactical bet on a revival in PSU Banks.

The S&P BSE Sensex Index closely tracks earnings over the long term and the index captures the sector trends and rotations to represent the current economy. The index is also diversified across sectors and has a large–cap orientation. The index also has a long history with past data showing that as the holding period increases, the possibility of negative returns decreases, and the probability of comparatively higher returns increases.

Private Banks in India have been a structural growth story and the market share of private sector banks has doubled in the last 18 years. The balance sheets of private sector banks have also become stronger and they have been well capitalized to support continued deposit and credit growth. Private banks’ financial ratios have also been rising sharply since the past three years while their valuations are at an attractive level compared to their historic average. Credit and deposit growth for private banks have also been growing at a strong rate while net non-performing assets (NPAs) are an 8 year low.

For PSU banks, their revival story may have just started with PSU banks outperforming private banks for the last three years. PSU banks have also seen an improvement in their net interest margins from falling NPA and higher recoveries. PSU Bank mergers have also strengthened their balance sheet and credit growth. The current valuations of PSU banks are also below its historical average. Given its increasing return on assets, the sector looks poised for a re-rating.

The New Fund Offer for DSP S&P BSE Sensex ETF, DSP Nifty Private Bank ETF and DSP Nifty PSU Bank ETF opens for subscription on July 17th, 2023, and closes on July 21st, 2023.

“The India growth story has given rise to many opportunities for investors for a successful long-term investing experience. Our offerings in the ETF space give investors the choice to do so by tracking the broader market passively at a relatively lower cost to achieve their financial goals, ride the strong structural growth story of private sector banks or benefit from a likely re-rating of PSU banks depending on their financial plan and risk tolerance.” says Anil Ghelani, CFA, Head – Passive Investments & Products, DSP Mutual Fund.

The Indian Music Experience Museum (IME) will host a lecture demonstration by Dr. Kaustuv Kanti Ganguli. It will look at new psychoacoustic and scientific approaches to music appreciation in the context of Hindustani Music.

Dr Ganguli will illustrate how our auditory system perceives and processes the rich tonal intricacies of ragas and share insights on how pitch, timbre, and rhythm interact to evoke deep emotional responses. Further, delving into the intersection of music and technology, the lecture will demonstrate how computational models can aid in understanding the structural patterns, melodic variations, and improvisational techniques employed in Hindustani classical music.

The lecture will be followed by a Khayal performance exploring the expressive world of Raag Bhairavi.

Accompanying artists;

Dr. Ravindran Katoti (Harmonium)
Shri Yogeesh Bhat (Tabla)

Venue: Indian Music Experience Museum, JP Nagar 7th Phase, Bengaluru.
Date: 20 July 2023
Time: 05:00 pm to 07:15 pm
Event is open to all.

Skilfully blending robust and tantalizing flavours of Chinese cuisine

Experience a tantalising lineup of Chinese specialties at Yi Jing as Chef Liang from ITC Maratha, Mumbai infuses time-honored classics with meticulous presentation, and truly unique yet authentic flavours.

One could indulge in a signature repertoire of delectable specialties, a harmonious marriage of spice and subtlety, curated by the seasoned virtuoso of Chinese cuisine, Chef Liang. Chef Liang always has a creative edge and Chinese cuisine is his favourite and forte. Honoured with several prestigious honours from around the world, he has won the hearts of international dignitaries in an illustrative career spanning over four decades.

Each dish on the limited edition TDH menu highlights his unique culinary flair, combining traditional flavours with contemporary creativity. Available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options having offerings such as Stuffed Lotus Stem with Crispy Garlic, Prawns with Crispy Crumb and Sesame, Sichuan Double Fried Pork, Spicy Chongqing Noodles with Mushrooms, and more, alongside wine-pairing option for a celebratory dining experience.

Yi Jing at Sheraton New Delhi draws inspiration from the essence and meaning of its title. ‘Yi’ means ‘to change’ and ‘Jing’ refers to ‘the classic’, presenting a cuisine philosophy that combines simplicity with contemporary interpretations. The culinary team led by Master Chef Deepak Pujari oversees the curation of offerings from across the diverse regions of China.

Drop by at Yi Jing for a feast for taste buds as well as eyes……

Till 30th July | TDH Menu
Dinner Wednesday to Monday and Lunch Saturday and Sunday
+91 8447100524 / 8800686827

New Delhi, 18th July 2023: With innovation at its core, Zeon Lifesciences, the global leader in the manufacturing of nutraceutical and herbal products, is delighted to announce the launch of yet another revolutionary product to its portfolio, i.e. liquid-filled capsules. This one-of-its-kind of capsules offer a cutting-edge and unique delivery system enclosing a host of advantages including enhanced bioavailability and absorption rates. It also ensures precise and consistent dosages empowering individuals to have better control over the administration of Zeon’s products.

Harnessing advanced, one-of-a-kind technologies, these capsules deliver optimal levels of active ingredients, leading to maximum efficacy and more immediate results. The launch is a testament to Zeon’s unwavering commitment to innovation and offering disruptive solutions to consumers and comes as one among many innovations that have transformed the nutraceutical industry.

Unprecedented advantages

Realising the soaring demand for more convenient and practical dosage forms, Zeon has partnered with Collaborative Third-Party Manufacturing for Innovative Liquid Filled Capsules. This trend-setting delivery mechanism revolutionises the industry by delivering multiple benefits that enhance the overall experience for consumers.

Furthermore, this strategic association strengthens Zeon Lifesciences’s commitment to furnishing unparalleled quality. Together, these industry leaders are committed to maintaining the highest standards in the production of liquid-filled capsules, assuring that customers receive a product that exceeds their expectations.

“This exemplary advancement illustrates Zeon’s persistent quest for excellence, driving the nutraceutical industry into unexplored domains. Ever since our inception, we have carved a distinctive reputation as a pioneer in innovation and technology advancement and the liquid-filled capsules are a testament to this legacy. Leveraging our distinctive collaboration, we will continue to innovate and set new benchmarks and trends in the nutraceutical industry for consumers to reap maximum health benefits,” said Mr. Suresh Garg, CMD and Founder, Zeon Lifesciences Limited.

Zeon LifeSciences holds a legacy of unparalleled innovation and quality. Prior to this, Zeon redefined the probiotics manufacturing segment by utilising the cutting-edge Intellicaps technology to encapsulate live bacteria in a protective casing and bolster the efficacy of probiotics. The company also recently forayed into the pet care industry with the launch of its new line of pet health supplements.

“I am thrilled to be part of a team that is revolutionizing drug delivery. Our liquid-filled capsules are a game-changer in the pharmaceutical industry, offering a host of unmatched benefits. From enhanced bioavailability to improved patient compliance, these capsules are poised to disrupt the status quo and elevate the standard of care. I am excited to witness the positive impact they will have on patient outcomes and overall healthcare” Dr. Vivek Srivastav, Senior vice president, innovation business strategy and scientific affairs, Zeon Lifesciences Limited.

Furthermore, In May this year, the company announced its global expansion, taking its footprint to more than 13 countries in the FY 2023-24. The move came after Zeon Lifesciences carved a distinctive niche in regions like SEA, MENA, and GEC, with its expansive range of Nutrition Wellness & Ayurvedic products.

Celebrities have been venturing into the world of food and beverages, using their fame and passion to create unique brands that are worth keeping an eye on. From popular Bollywood stars to legendary cricketers, these celebrities have combined their love for food and entrepreneurship to create some exciting F&B ventures. Here are five celebrity-backed F&B brands that are making waves in the industry.

KAIA Goa by Bhumi Pednekar: Known for her remarkable performances in Bollywood, Bhumi Pednekar has recently delved into the F&B industry with KAIA Goa along with Pawan Shahri, Dhaval Udeshi & Nikita Harisinghani, Co-founders, Chrome Asia Hospitality. Aligned with Bhumi’s ethos of slow living, KAIA by Chrome is specially curated for the traveller who seeks ultimate relaxation and is built on the philosophy of slow living.

Anushka Sharma & Wholsum Foods- Founded in 2016 by Shauravi Malik and Meghana Narayan, Wholsum Foods is the parent company of the children’s food brand Slurrp Farm. Anushka invested in the brand in 2022 and has been supporting the same for a while. Millé offers our customers healthy food options with increased plant protein which comes from the unique combination of millets with lentils and legumes. With rising diabesity, cardiovascular diseases and an unhealthy eating culture, Millé helps people make a positive change towards a holistically healthier, happier way to eat using ancient supergrains that are inherently good for you and good for the planet

Mahi Hotel: The former captain of the Indian cricket team, M S Dhoni, has always shown his love for food off the field. He ventured into the F&B industry by opening a hotel. Mahi Hotel. This is one of the insufficiently famous business investments of MS Dhoni so far because very few people know that he also owns a hotel under the name of Hotel Mahi Residency. MS Dhoni-owned hotel does not have any other franchise. It is located in Ranchi, Jharkhand

Suresh Raina’s Sweet Tooth: Known for his powerful batting skills, Suresh Raina has also explored his love for desserts by starting an F&B brand called “Sweet Tooth.” This venture focuses on creating delectable sweets and desserts, showcasing Raina’s personal favorites. From classic Indian sweets to innovative fusion desserts, Sweet Tooth aims to satisfy every sweet tooth craving out there.

As celebrities continue to explore new avenues beyond their primary fields, the F&B industry is witnessing some exciting developments. From beachside restaurants to dessert ventures, these celebrity-backed brands promise unique experiences and flavors. Whether you’re a fan of Bollywood or cricket, make sure to keep an eye on these five F&B brands as they bring their star power and passion to the world of food and beverages.

Your muscles serve essential functions in your day-to-day life, allowing you to start your day by getting out of bed, engaging in your daily activities like walking, running and even crossing race-day finish lines. However, starting at the age of 40, adults can lose up to 8 percent of muscle mass per decade and after 70 years old, that rate can potentially double[i]. When a person loses a large amount of muscle mass along with strength and function as they age, they experience advanced muscle loss which is also known as sarcopenia. Despite relying on your muscles extensively every day, there are many intriguing aspects about them that remain unknown.

Prof. Dr Agam Vora, Senior Consultant Chest Physician and Medical Director at Vora Clinic, Mumbai has compiled a list of lesser-known facts about your muscles along with some tips on how to optimize your muscle health through proper nutrition as you age.

Muscle Health as an Important Health Indicator

The condition and vitality of your muscles can serve as an indicator of potential health risks beyond just muscular well-being. A study published in The Lancet[ii] found that muscle strength can determine the risk of fatal cardiovascular disease more accurately than systolic blood pressure. Additionally, people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who have higher muscle mass are also likely to experience better respiratory outcomes.

Together, muscles work like a huge organ, impacting mobility, balance, strength and even metabolism. People with advanced muscle loss or sarcopenia can have adverse health outcomes, especially those living with chronic diseases. Some negative outcomes can be a poorer quality of life, more surgical complications, lower physical function and overall lower survival than those with more muscle mass.

Muscle mass and strength are important indicators of health status. They should be regularly evaluated by a doctor just like routine assessments of blood pressure or heart rate. Moreover, the proportion of muscle mass in relation to fat mass, known as body composition, emerges as a more comprehensive measure of overall health compared to the commonly used body mass index (BMI).

The Link Between Muscles and Immunity

When it comes to ensuring good health, fortifying your immune system and minimizing the risk of bacterial and viral infections cannot be overlooked. Muscles play crucial in building a strong immune system. Scientific research has demonstrated that muscle tissue actively contributes to the activation of immune cells, and individuals with lower muscle mass and strength may experience diminished immune function[iii]. Maintaining an active lifestyle proves beneficial for overall health.

To bolster your immune health, there is a need to assess your dietary choices. Make lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, and low-fat dairy the focal points of your meals. This harmonious blend of foods provides essential micronutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, iron, and antioxidants, all of which fortify the immune system and rejuvenate muscle health. By adopting a balanced diet enriched with these vital nutrients, you can unleash the full potential of a resilient and thriving immune system.

Role of Protein in A Muscle-Strengthening Diet

While a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to a decline in muscle mass and accelerate sarcopenia, your body also becomes less efficient at utilizing the protein you eat to build muscles as you age. To ensure ideal nutrition for your overall health as well as your muscles, try to add beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) along with your daily protein intake in your diet. It’s a natural compound that can help preserve muscle mass in healthy older adults[iv]. You can get it in small quantities from foods like avocados, grapefruit and cauliflower. You can also find it as an ingredient alongside protein in dietary nutritional supplements. To ensure you are getting enough protein to stay strong and avoid falls, try these tips:

• Start the day with a high-protein breakfast. Eggs, mashed beans on whole-wheat bread or cottage cheese with fresh fruit are all great choices
• Consume a protein-rich afternoon snack. Half of a turkey sandwich, Greek yoghurt with berries, cheese and whole-grain crackers or a protein shake are some options
• Choose a protein-rich main course for lunch and dinner. Top picks include grilled chicken, fish and shrimp; stir-fried veggies; and seared tofu
• End the day with a protein-packed snack like a chia pudding[v]

It is highly advisable to seek advice from your doctor on effective strategies to combat sarcopenia by preserving muscle, enhancing strength, and maintaining balance. Whether it involves fine-tuning your diet or incorporating suitable exercises into your routine, their professional recommendations, combined with these fundamental guidelines, can empower you to achieve and maintain optimal health as you embrace the ageing process

Gurugram, 18th July 2023:Kamdhenu Limited, India’s largest manufacturer and seller of branded TMT Bars in retail has won accolades and praises at the Greatest Brand & Leaders 20th Asia Africa Business & Social Forum held in Dubai. Kamdhenu Steel was awarded the Most Trusted Steel Brand of the Year 2023 while Shri Sunil Agarwal, Director, Kamdhenu Limited was conferred with the Leadership Excellence award for Best Business Practices 2023.

Shri Sunil Agarwal received the Awards from the hands of H.H. Sheikh Alhassan Bin Ali Al-Nuaimi and H.E. Mr. Willy Gomez, Ambassador of Guatemala to the United Arab Emirates.

Commenting on the recognition, Mr. Sunil Agarwal, Director, Kamdhenu Limited said, “We are extremely honored and proud to receive the Leadership Excellence award for Best Business Practices 2023 at the 20th Asia Africa Business & Social Forum. This recognition highlights Kamdhenu Ltd’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of excellence in our industry. Winning the Most Trusted Steel Brand of the Year 2023 further reinforces our dedication to providing top-quality products and building trust with our valued customers. We express our heartfelt gratitude to the organizers and assure our stakeholders that we will continue to excel in our business practices and maintain the trust placed in us”

New Delhi,18th July 2023 National Media Club(NMC) is celebrating the 16th India Mango Festival on 25th July 2023 in New Delhi. The NMC India Mango Festival is an annual celebration dedicated to the king of fruits Mango. The festival, organized every year, displays different varieties of mango produced by farmers as well as the Horticulture Department and Agriculture Universities in India. NMC India Mango Festival is not only a celebration of this luscious fruit but also a means to raise awareness about its significance. The festival aims to showcase the rich diversity of mango varieties and promote the agriculture prowess of India.

The festival has the participation of farmers, Horticulture departments from different universities in India. The festival displays traditional, hybrid and unique varieties of mangoes produced in them. The festival also plays an important role in showcasing different varieties of mangoes along with demonstrating the innovative products that can be derived from mangoes. The festival also provides a unique opportunity for guests to learn about the cultivation, harvesting and post-harvest processing techniques involved in mango production. Expert farmers, horticulturists and agricultural professionals share their knowledge, providing valuable insights into the world of mango farming.

Commenting on the augment of India Mango Festival, Ramesh Awasthi, National Media Club, said, “ We are delighted to organize 16th India Mango Festival. Through this festival, we try to educate people about the various mango varieties, their nutritional benefits and the immense potential; they hold in boosting rural economies. We believe that by promoting this fruit, we can further enhance its market value, benefitting both farmers and consumers.”