Archives January 2024

Hyderabad, 2nd January 2024: Navratna mining giant, NMDC produced 4.48 million tonnes and sold 4.19 million tonnes of iron ore in the month of December 2023. Recording a growth of 24% in production and 26% in sales over December 2022, the company achieved its best-ever December month production and sales since inception.

Also, delivering its best-ever third-quarter volumes, NMDC produced 12.22 MT and sold 11.42 MT of iron ore in Q3 FY24. Compared to the third quarter of FY23, there is a 15% rise in production and 19% rise in sales figures.
NMDC’s cumulative production stood at 31.79 MT while the sales figure reached 31.97 MT, upto December 2023. With highest ever cumulative production and sales upto December 2023 in the company’s history, NMDC has entered the fourth quarter of FY24 on a strong momentum. Cumulative figures have witnessed an ascent of 18% in production and 24% in sales over CPLY.

Congratulating his team, Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD (Additional Charge) said, “This performance reflects our commitment to building an iron strong nation. It stems from NMDC’s strategic investment in building sufficient capacities and robust infrastructure to cater to the growing domestic demand. Entering 2024 with an exceptional Q3 boosts our confidence in achieving the production and sales targets for the fiscal.”

Leh, 1st January 2024 Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of Public Sector Undertakings under the administration of the Ministry of Power, announced the distribution of 2000 induction cookstoves to Anganwadi workers, Child-care centers and Monasteries in UT Ladakh. This initiative will be implemented over the next 15 to 20 days under EESL’s National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP) with support from the Ladakh Power Development Department (LAPDD) and fund allocated by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) with the aim to promote energy-efficient, clean, and safe cooking.

The event was graced by the presence of Shri. Brig. (Dr.) Shri B. D. Mishra (Retd.) (Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, UT of Ladakh), Shri (Dr.) Mohd. Jaffer Akhon (Chief Executive Councilor, Kargil), Hon’ble Shri Jamyang Tsering Namgyal (MP, UT of Ladakh), Shri Ravinder Kumar (IAS), (Secretary PDD, UT Ladakh), and Ms. Padma Angmo (IIS), Commissioner and Secretary, Social and Welfare. Additionally, notable EESL figures present at the event included Mr. Vishal Kapoor (Chief Executive Officer), Mr. Animesh Mishra (Chief General Manager and Head of Sales & PR), Mr. Girja Shankar (General Manager of Tech and Head of Corporate Driven Programs), and Mr. Nitin Bhatt (Deputy General Manager of PR & Sales).

India has traditionally relied on biomass-based cooking methods, which have taken a toll on both public health and the environment. Furthermore, considering that 60% of India’s future energy demand is anticipated to come from the cooling sector, the quest for sustainable and energy-efficient cooking solutions has become increasingly critical. To tackle these challenges, EESL has launched the National Efficient Cooking Program (NECP), aiming to promote the widespread use of induction cookstoves. The introduction of these cookstoves brings a 25-30% cost advantage over conventional methods. This innovative approach not only addresses health concerns among Anganwadi workers caused by harmful emissions from traditional cooking but also ensures a safer and healthier working environment. Moreover, it emphasizes the pressing need to adopt sustainable and health-conscious cooking practices.

Hon’ble Lt Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr.) B D Mishra said, “The distribution of induction cookstoves stands as a significant step towards sustainable living in Ladakh, and I commend EESL’s dedication to fostering a more environmentally aware and energy-efficient community. This initiative not only aligns with Ladakh’s ethos of responsible environmental stewardship but also empowers our citizens to embrace cleaner and more efficient cooking practices.”

Mr Vishal Kapoor, Chief Executive Officer, EESL, said, “At EESL, our commitment to empowering communities through sustainable solutions remains unwavering. With the distribution of induction cookstoves, our aim is to revolutionize cooking practices with cutting-edge, energy-efficient technologies. This initiative in Ladakh is a testament to our relentless efforts in advancing environmental sustainability, fostering not only a cleaner and healthier present but also ensuring a greener and more resilient future for generations to come.”

EESL recently launched its National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP), promising to transform the way India cooks through its energy saving and cost-effective cooking solutions. By deploying 20 Lakh Induction cookstoves across India, EESL seeks to reduce the environmental impact of cooking methods, ensuring cleaner air and improved health for citizens. EESL has also partnered with Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) for the large-scale deployment of induction cooktops. The deployment is expected to accelerate the acceptance and large-scale adoption of modern electric cooking devices in Indian kitchens.

Hyderabad,1st January 2024: Sancta Maria International School, Hyderabad, recently participated in the virtual International Schools Partnership’s Model United Nations (ISP MUN). The MUN is a three-day conference that simulates the United Nations General Assembly. Over 300 students from over 70 schools around the world participated in the conference held virtually.

The event is part of the International Learning Opportunities for Students (ILOS) program, which are a series of impactful learning programs that connect ISP students across 21 countries through unique beyond-the-classroom experiences.

The ISP MUN offered an exceptional learning opportunity for students across the globe to engage in meaningful discussion and debate on a range of crucial issues affecting the world today as well as the future of the planet. It provided a precious learning opportunity to hone their leadership, communication and diplomacy skills, as young minds from diverse nations and cultures engaged in three days of intensive brainstorming to find solutions to vital global challenges.

The theme of this MUN was Collaborative Solutions for Sustainable Development. The entire MUN was designed around the UN Sustainable Development Goals and categorised into people, planet, prosperity and peace. Accordingly, committees discussed agendas such as: bridging the digital divide, women’s empowerment, combating drug cartel violence, fighting pharmaceutical pollution, healthcare and the safety of migrants, especially in conflict zones.

14 student delegates from Sancta Maria, Hyderabad, took part in the event. The Sancta Maria team put up a remarkable performance, right from the submission of well-researched position papers to one of the students, Harshika being chosen as Dais Member for the UNCTAD Committee, an opportunity given only to ten students selected at the international level.

Sancta Marians Mohineesh and Dhruti won the Best Delegate Award, while Suhaas received the Award of Merit. Furthermore, Dhruthi was also chosen as one of the Plenary Speakers at the Concluding Session.

“The MUN helped me to gain confidence in expressing myself without fear, in interacting with persons from varied cultures and in negotiating towards a common solution for the entire committee. MUN is not just about oratory but also about people management skills. I look forward to more such experiences and more active participation from all delegates”, said Mohineesh.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Ruchira Ghosh, Principal, Sancta Maria International School said that “We are immensely proud of our students’ outstanding performance at the ISP Model United Nations 2023. Sancta Maria International School’s commitment to excellence has shone through, with our delegates showcasing diplomacy, negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of global issues. We look forward to fostering collaboration and global citizenship among our future leaders through many more transformative experiences.”

To know more about Sancta Maria International School, visit https://sanctamaria.in/

By Dr. Subhendu Mohanty, Head & Senior Consultant, Department of Cardiology, MBBS, MD-Internal Medicine, DM-Cardiology

As winter arrives with its frosty attractiveness, a frightening paradox emerges: the season of snowflakes corresponds with a significant increase in heart attacks. For years, researchers and healthcare professionals have been captivated by the winter heart attack dilemma, leading to study into the intricate interaction between cold weather, elevated blood pressure, and the resulting cardiovascular risks.

Cold Weather and Blood Pressure:

The human body responds to cold temperatures by initiating vasoconstriction, a natural mechanism where blood vessels narrow to conserve heat. While this response helps maintain core body temperature, it has a significant impact on blood pressure. Vasoconstriction raises blood pressure as the heart works harder to pump blood through the constricted vessels. For individuals with hypertension, this natural response to cold weather can substantially elevate blood pressure levels, setting the stage for cardiovascular events.

Increased Cardiovascular Risks:

Heart Attacks: The winter-induced elevation in blood pressure becomes a pivotal factor in the increased incidence of heart attacks during this season. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is obstructed, often due to the formation of blood clots in the narrowed arteries. The combination of vasoconstriction and the propensity for blood clot formation in colder temperatures creates an environment conducive to heart attacks.

Stroke: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for strokes, and the winter weather amplifies this risk. Stroke transpires when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either by a clot or a ruptured blood vessel. Cold-induced vasoconstriction contributes to the overall burden on the cardiovascular system, increasing the likelihood of strokes during winter.

Paralysis: In severe cases, strokes can lead to paralysis. Depending on the area of the brain affected, individuals may experience partial or complete loss of motor function. The combination of high blood pressure, winter-induced physiological responses, and the potential for clot formation creates a scenario where the risk of paralysis becomes more pronounced.

Vulnerable Populations:

Certain demographic groups are particularly vulnerable to the interplay of winter weather and cardiovascular risks. Elderly individuals, whose blood vessels may already be less elastic due to age-related changes, face an increased susceptibility to the impact of vasoconstriction. Similarly, those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease or heart failure, find themselves navigating a delicate balance between their health and the seasonal challenges posed by winter.

Respiratory Challenges and Compounding Effects:

Beyond the direct impact on blood pressure, winter introduces respiratory challenges that further compound cardiovascular risks. Cold air can constrict airways, making breathing more difficult, especially for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The strain on the respiratory system places an additional burden on the heart, heightening the potential for heart attacks and strokes.

Prevention and Mitigation:

Understanding the correlation between winter, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular events underscores the importance of preventive measures. Adopting heart-healthy habits throughout the year, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management, lays a foundation for overall cardiovascular well-being. Additionally, individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular conditions should be vigilant during winter, seeking regular medical check-ups, and adhering to prescribed medications.

1st January 2024 New Delhi Continuing its winning streak for the third consecutive year and scoring a hattrick of profitability, Physics Wallah (PW) reported a total revenue of INR 798 crore, up 3.4 times from the previous year. Total student enrolment touching 24 lakhs for the financial year 2023. Physics Wallah has successfully cracked the code of customer acquisition costs (CaCs). PW solved for the community first and then went after growth, capital, and integration across the value chain thereby building a sustainable business.

The company’s revenue surged 3.4 times in FY23 from the previous fiscal year driven by increased penetration within the offline category.

PW’s revenue from operations increased to INR 771.76 crore during the fiscal year ending March 2023, compared to INR 232.47 crore during the previous fiscal year and INR 24.6 crore in FY21. PW will soon file financial statements with the Registrar of Companies. The platform taught close to 24 lakh students across all exam categories (excluding acquisitions) up from more than 9 lakh students last year. The company saw a major growth in student numbers coming from expansion in multiple new exam categories, skilling, and an impressive surge in offline student enrolments. PW had raised USD 100 million during the financial year 2023 and took a lead in consolidating the space through its M&A spree and entered into as much as 8 partnerships in FY23, all profitable in themselves. The inorganic revenue of the order of INR 500 crore shall reflect in the FY24 financials through these M&A made in FY23.

Contrary to the majority other stories in the startup ecosystem, PW reported an adjusted EBITDA (earnings before income, tax, depreciation and amortization) of INR 127 crore in FY23 (adjusted for ESOP costs, LER and one-time inventory provisioning), which stood at INR 134 crore in FY22.

PW’s performance provides a much-needed warmth in an otherwise chilly winter in the Edtech industry.

PW’s Co-founder Prateek Maheshwari said, “Our growth was significant both in the online and offline space. Our online categories grew to 2.5x in terms of students headcount from 9 lakh in FY22 to 23.5 lakh in FY23 while our offline student headcount grew to 5.5x touching 60,000 enrolments in FY23. We also continued to cement our position in the NEET/JEE space while establishing ourselves as the topmost player in other categories like UPSC, Commerce, Gate, Government One-day exam, and Skills. We will keep investing in more categories – across study abroad, PG test prep, skills, foundation – applying a similar formula of community, quality, and affordability, to remain in a hyper-growth phase. We are in no hurry to compromise growth for achieving a steady-state margin profile.”

PW’s cash reserves also improved significantly to almost INR 750 crore as of 31st March 2023.

PW’s total expenses grew to INR 777 crore in FY23 (including non-cash Expenses i.e ESOP, LER & Inventory provisions) from INR 103 crore a year earlier. The employee costs grew to INR 406 crore (Including ESOP benefits, which was nil in FY22) from INR 42 crore last year. However, the marketing costs remained as a single-digit percentage of revenue highlighting a strong moat of community for the company in acquiring new students.

Physics Wallah (PW), the only Edtech player that has thrived in the online space has also very effectively pivoted in offline and hybrid space by establishing Vidyapeeth and Pathshala centers across India. Physics Wallah is looking to expand to 120+ centers through its Vidyapeeth(Offline) and Pathshala(Hybrid) centers in the coming year, from 58 centers currently operational, and will teach 2.5 Lakh students by 2024-25 academic year, up from 1.4 Lakh in the academic year 2023-24.

PW’s Founder and CEO Alakh Pandey stated: “Our commitment is clear: We’re investing to reshape India’s education. Education uplifts societies and drives economic growth. We will continue to plough back all the free cash flows generated by the business back into it to serve more students – touch more lives – transform more families.”

Over the past 3+ years, since incorporation, the PW model has consistently proven that if you honestly focus on educating and uplifting the students of BHARAT – growth, revenue, and profitability will follow.

Mumbai/Shillong,1st January 2024: In a significant leap towards enhancing digital connectivity, the Government of Meghalaya is delighted to announce the successful commissioning of the Tura Link, providing a robust 100 Mbps internet connection. This groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by the Information Technology & Communication (IT & C) Department, marks a pivotal step in the state’s ambitious ‘Last Mile Connectivity’ project.

The Last Mile Connectivity project is designed to extend internet accessibility to the farthest corners of Meghalaya, ensuring that every citizen can benefit from the advantages of a digitally connected world. The recent achievement of establishing a 100 Mbps link to Tura serves as a proof of concept for the state’s commitment to foster connectivity across the regions, keeping aside the challenges that state’s geography brings.

Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This milestone achievement in Tura is a significant stride towards realizing the vision of a digitally connected Meghalaya. We are committed to ensuring that the benefits of the digital age reach every citizen, and the Last Mile Connectivity project is a crucial step in that direction. I commend the efforts of the IT & C Department, Powertel, and MeECL for their dedication in making this vision a reality. The Government of Meghalaya looks forward to further collaborations as it continues to work towards transforming the digital landscape of the state, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the overall quality of life for our people”.

Key stakeholders in this transformative endeavour include Powertel, a subsidiary of Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL), and Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL). Both critical Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) have played instrumental roles in advancing this ambitious project.

Shri Pravin Bakshi, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, IT & Communications Department, Government of Meghalaya, said, “The absence of reliable internet in Garo Hills posed significant challenges, affecting essential tasks and hindering sectors like education and healthcare. The Tura Link, part of the Last Mile Connectivity project, has now eradicated these issues. With 100 Mbps connectivity, residents can download crucial documents, businesses operate efficiently, and transactions, including bill payments will be seamless. This initiative, spearheaded by the IT & Communications Department, not only bridges the digital gap but propels socio-economic development in Garo Hills.”

The State IT Department and Powertel collaborated to successfully complete a Proof of Concept (PoC) that delivered 100 Mbps internet connectivity to Tura. This was made possible by leveraging the Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) on the transmission lines of Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL).

Hyderabad, 1st January 2024 Dr. Nalini Pati, an esteemed Adult and Pediatric Hemato Oncologist and Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Specialist from Canberra, Australia is well connected with TSCS since more than 2 decades & visits very often. He has recently visited the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society in Hyderabad. The visit encompassed a significant presentation focused on the “Management, Awareness, and Prevention of Thalassemia and Sickle Cell” diseases.

During his visit, Dr. Nalini Kant Pati engaged with Board members of the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society, providing invaluable insights and strategies for the effective management and prevention of these conditions. His expertise and dedication to advancing treatment methodologies were evident in the comprehensive presentation, which emphasized both the medical intricacies and the importance of public awareness in combating these genetic disorders.

Expressing his gratitude for Dr. Nalini Pati’s visit, Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President of the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society, shared, “We are honoured to have Dr. Nalini Pati amongst us. His dedication to the field and his commitment to improving the lives of individuals affected by Thalassemia and Sickle Cell diseases are commendable. His insights will undoubtedly guide us in our ongoing efforts towards better management and prevention strategies.”

Dr. Nalini Pati, whose expertise in haematology and oncology is widely recognized, also shared his thoughts on the visit, stating, “It was a privilege to engage with the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society in Hyderabad. Collaborative efforts between medical professionals and societies are pivotal in elevating awareness and advancing treatment modalities. I’m hopeful that our discussions will contribute to a more comprehensive approach in managing these conditions.”

Dr. Nalini Pati’s visit has significantly enriched the knowledge base of the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society, empowering them to further their mission of creating awareness and providing enhanced care for individuals affected by these genetic disorders.

Mumbai- In a formidable yet elusive operation, doctors at Solaris Hospital in Thane performed a unique brain surgery to save a woman’s life while she kept awake and chanting Gayatri Mantra for 2 hours in the operation theater. Dr. Amit Aiwale, a renowned Neurosurgeon from Solaris Hospital known for his expertise in complex brain surgeries performed a successful awake craniotomy a type of brain surgery where the patient is not put under general anesthesia to constantly map their motor functions and reactions to remove a tumour in the women’s brain. An Awake Craniotomy, also known as Awake Brain Surgery, is a procedure performed when the patient is awake which reduces the risk of damaging critical areas of the brain.

Giving more information on this, Dr. Amit Aiwale, Neurosurgeon & Director of Solaris Hospital says, “Your brain is a control center for your body. It helps you move your arms, legs, and do many other functions. The young lady (age 45), from Mulund had initially sought medical attention for behavioral disturbances from a psychiatrist that were affecting her personal life. Her behavioral disturbances that were affecting her personal life, the young woman found herself at the crossroads of mental health challenges and marital strain and after all investigation we determined that they were caused by a tumour in her brain. Keeping in mind the woman’s age and the tumour’s proximity to her motor cortex, the area of the brain that controls physical movements, we opted to perform awake brain surgery to minimize the risk of debilitating her. Throughout the Awake craniotomy, she chanted the Gayatri Mantra, a sacred chant from Hindu scriptures. This spiritual practice not only showcased the patient’s resilience but also added a unique dimension to the surgical journey.”

Dr. Amit Aiwale further added, the woman showed no signs of stress during the entire process as our team of doctors kept constantly talking to her. In this Awake craniotomy, an intricate procedure where the patient remains conscious during parts of the surgery. This allows surgeons to interact with the patient, ensuring vital functions like speech are safeguarded during the tumor’s removal. Also the patient is monitored for hand and leg movements so as to prevent any paralysis. This allows Surgeons to remove the maximum brain tumor without affecting the quality of life of patients. The removal of the tumour was done with a very well modern operation theater with a high resolution microscope and navigation system in Solaris Hospital. After removal of Brain tumour we discharged her after four days from the hospital.

1st January 2024 Yoho, an innovative footwear brand that offers ultimate style, durability, and comfort, unveiled its latest printed boots collection recently, featuring a stunning array of printed boots for women. Designed to blend artistry, comfort, and functionality, this collection offers a stylish solution for your daily wardrobe essentials. The collection of boots has been welcomed greatly by consumers, making them almost a great hit in the market. Celebrities like Hina Khan, Gauhar Khan, Hiten Tejwani, and more have even shared their love for the collection on their social media.

Yoho’s Printed Collection for Women celebrates comfort and style embracing ultimate versatility. The mandala and geometric pattern-inspired boots boast eye-catching designs crafted from the finest materials, promising warmth and coziness throughout the season. These boots are not just footwear; they’re a statement piece that adds vibrancy and intricate patterns to any ensemble, whether walking in the city streets or hitting the slopes.

The Printed Boot Collection for Women by Yoho represents a culmination of curated craftsmanship and innovative design, showcasing a blend of unparalleled comfort, striking aesthetics, and functional benefits like breathable texture, lightweight, and durability. These boots are meticulously crafted with a focus on the brand’s distinctive ease and comfort, ensuring both style and superior support for wearers across various activities. Additionally, Yoho’s commitment to utilizing top-quality materials and embracing intricate prints and vibrant colors speaks volumes about the collection’s dedication to elevating everyday fashion footwear.

“Our Printed Collection isn’t just about keeping your feet warm; it’s also about the ultimate comfort and the style the boots bring. We saw a gap that the printed boots weren’t really available in the market, so we worked towards it and brought these printed boots in vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The way these boots have been liked by consumers has further strengthened our commitment to bringing innovative products that speak of style and comfort, and we’ll be seeing more new product launches from Yoho in the coming time.”, said Ahmad Hushsham, Co-founder & CEO, Yoho.

1st January 2024 KOCHI: Dr. Prem Nair, the Group Medical Director of Amrita Hospital, Kochi, and Faridabad, has been bestowed with the Tharang Golden Honour for Global Excellence by the Indian Medical Association. The prestigious award ceremony took place during the 98th All India Medical Conference held in Thiruvananthapuram, with the award being presented by the Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan.

The Tharang Golden Honour recognises Dr. Nair’s exceptional contributions to medicine and healthcare policies, emphasizing his unwavering dedication to patient care and influential leadership in shaping affordable and accessible healthcare. The award acknowledges his tireless efforts in advancing medical knowledge, improving patient care, and showcasing exemplary leadership, establishing him as a prominent figure in the healthcare community both nationally and internationally.

Dr. Nair, instrumental in establishing Amrita Hospital in 1998 and founding Kerala’s first private medical college in 2002, aimed to bridge healthcare disparities. Under his visionary leadership, Amrita Hospitals has evolved into India’s largest private healthcare institution, setting a benchmark for accessible and top-quality healthcare services.

His academic journey includes a Doctor of Medicine and Fellowship of the American College of Physicians in Hepatology from the University of Southern California. Dr. Nair’s influential career encompasses key positions such as Medical Director at Amrita Hospital and Provost (Medical Sciences) at Amrita University, Consulting Gastroenterologist in California, and leadership roles at the Association of Healthcare Providers (India).

Furthermore, Dr. Nair’s commitment to advancing healthcare is evident through his current role as the national president-elect of the Telemedicine Society of India. Additionally, he played a pivotal role as the chairman of the Telemedicon International Conference held in 2022.

Under his transformative leadership, Amrita Hospital, Kochi has become a symbol of excellence and compassion, with 1,350 beds, and achieving groundbreaking medical milestones, including Asia’s first upper-arm double hand transplant and India’s first surgery on a foetus in the womb. The institution continues to lead in medical innovation, investing in cutting-edge technologies, and contributing significantly to medical education, research, and community outreach.

In 2022, Amrita Hospital expanded its impact with a new facility in Faridabad, covering 130 acres and equipped with 2,600 beds, specialized centres, advanced medical imaging services, and state-of-the-art facilities for handling infectious diseases.

The All-India Medical Conference, a gathering of medical experts, provided a fitting platform to acknowledge and celebrate Dr. Prem Nair’s outstanding career. The event brought together leaders and more than 2,000 representatives from different parts of the country to recognize and applaud the awardees’ contributions to the medical field.